bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of parapodia and lack of photoacclimation in kleptoplasts of the sacoglossan sea slug Plakobranchus ocellatus
Authors: Richards Donà Angela , Evertsen Jussi , Johnsen Geir
Published: March 2022

The sacoglossan sea slug Plakobranchus ocellatus is a pantropical gastropod that pilfers and incorporates algal chloroplasts (kleptoplasts) into its digestive cells and benefits from the production of photosynthate. It is a mobile, reef forager with mottled, wing-like parapodia that provide good camouflage in sand and are typically observed closed over the kleptoplast-filled digestive tubules. Functional kleptoplasts continue to photosynthesize but are separated from the algal nuclei and are unable to divide within host cells. The mechanisms that enable kleptoplasts to endure are poorly understood and the extent and limitations of functionality have not yet been fully characterized. We investigated kleptoplasts in three tropical sacoglossan species, Elysia ornata, Thuridilla gracilis, and P. ocellatus, collected from different depths and light fields to identify pigments, quantify retention times, and determine photosynthetic parameters. We found that P. ocellatus had the highest estimated retention time and maintained the highest ratio of photoprotective to photosynthetic pigments. A subsequent manipulative experiment on P. ocellatus specimens collected at the same site, depth, and time involved exposure to three different irradiances and showed that kleptoplasts did not photoacclimate over the course of 7 d. No significant changes in in vivo kleptoplast photosynthetic parameters or corresponding spectral reflectance occurred when measuring kleptoplasts directly with open parapodia. Reflectance of closed parapodia, however, showed significant increases in the medium- and high-light treatments on day seven indicating localized kleptoplast degradation. Our results suggest that closed parapodia play an important role in kleptoplast protection by shielding internal kleptoplasts while permitting filtered light energy to reach kleptoplasts on the parapodial undersides. The cryptically patterned parapodia assume the role of photoprotectant, compensating for kleptoplast inability to photoacclimate. This allows P. ocellatus to forage in high-light, exposed, sandy areas and exploit algal food resources that may be unavailable or too risky for other sacoglossans.
Inverse design optimization framework via a two-step deep learning approach: application to a wind turbine airfoil
Authors: Yang Sunwoong , Lee Sanga , Yee Kwanjung
Published: March 2022

The inverse approach is computationally efficient in aerodynamic design as the desired target performance distribution is prespecified. However, it has some significant limitations that prevent it from achieving full efficiency. First, the iterative procedure should be repeated whenever the specified target distribution changes. Target distribution optimization can be performed to clarify the ambiguity in specifying this distribution, but several additional problems arise in this process such as loss of the representation capacity due to parameterization of the distribution, excessive constraints for a realistic distribution, inaccuracy of quantities of interest due to theoretical/empirical predictions, and the impossibility of explicitly imposing geometric constraints. To deal with these issues, a novel inverse design optimization framework with a two-step deep learning approach is proposed. A variational autoencoder and multi-layer perceptron are used to generate a realistic target distribution and predict the quantities of interest and shape parameters from the generated distribution, respectively. Then, target distribution optimization is performed as the inverse design optimization. The proposed framework applies active learning and transfer learning techniques to improve accuracy and efficiency. Finally, the framework is validated through aerodynamic shape optimizations of the wind turbine airfoil. Their results show that this framework is accurate, efficient, and flexible to be applied to other inverse design engineering applications.
Preliminary design and evaluation of a remote tele-mentoring system for minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Shabir Dehlela , Abdurahiman Nihal , Padhan Jhasketan , Anbatawi Malek , Trinh May , Balakrishnan Shidin , Al-Ansari Abdulla , Yaacoub Elias , Deng Zhigang , Erbad Aiman , Mohammed Amr , Navkar Nikhil V.
Published: March 2022

Background

Tele-mentoring during surgery facilitates the transfer of surgical knowledge from a mentor (specialist surgeon) to a mentee (operating surgeon). The aim of this work is to develop a tele-mentoring system tailored for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) where the mentor can remotely demonstrate to the mentee the required motion of the surgical instruments.

Methods

A remote tele-mentoring system is implemented that generates visual cues in the form of virtual surgical instrument motion overlaid onto the live view of the operative field. The technical performance of the system is evaluated in a simulated environment, where the operating room and the central location of the mentor were physically located in different countries and connected over the internet. In addition, a user study was performed to assess the system as a mentoring tool.

Results

On average, it took 260 ms to send a view of the operative field of 1920 × 1080 resolution from the operating room to the central location of the mentor and an average of 132 ms to receive the motion of virtual surgical instruments from the central location to the operating room. The user study showed that it is feasible for the mentor to demonstrate and for the mentee to understand and replicate the motion of surgical instruments.

Conclusion

The work demonstrates the feasibility of transferring information over the internet from a mentor to a mentee in the form of virtual surgical instruments. Their motion is overlaid onto the live view of the operative field enabling real-time interactions between both the surgeons.
On the existence of isoperimetric regions in manifolds with nonnegative Ricci curvature and Euclidean volume growth
Authors: Antonelli Gioacchino , Bruè Elia , Fogagnolo Mattia , Pozzetta Marco
Published: March 2022

In this paper we provide new existence results for isoperimetric sets of large volume in Riemannian manifolds with nonnegative Ricci curvature and Euclidean volume growth. We find sufficient conditions for their existence in terms of the geometry at infinity of the manifold. As a byproduct we show that isoperimetric sets of big volume always exist on manifolds with nonnegative sectional curvature and Euclidean volume growth. Our method combines an asymptotic mass decomposition result for minimizing sequences, a sharp isoperimetric inequality on nonsmooth spaces, and the concavity property of the isoperimetric profile. The latter is new in the generality of noncollapsed manifolds with Ricci curvature bounded below.
5-HTT genotype and inertia of negative affect in adolescents and young adults from the general population
Authors: Ollmann T. M. , Seidl E. , Venz J. , Pieper L. , Voss C. , Hoyer J. , Kische H. , Poppenhäger S. R. , Schiele M. A. , Domschke K. , Beesdo-Baum K.
Published: March 2022

The study aims to replicate the previous found association of5-HTTLPR and inertia of negative affect in daily life of adolescents and young adults. Data of 877 adolescents (aged 14–21 years) of the Behavior and Mind Health (BeMIND) study (epidemiological cohort study, Dresden, Germany) were genotyped for 5-HTTLPR/rs25531, grouped into SS/SLG/SLA/LGLA/LGLGvs. LALA, and provided ratings on negative affect items, depression and anxiety (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System) eight times a day over 4 days. Multilevel regression models did not reveal an association of 5-HTTLPR genotype and inertia of negative affect, nor associations with inertia of anxiety or depression. Inertia of negative affect seems not to be a psychological mechanism through which5-HTTLPR acts on psychopathology.
o-Toluidine in electrochemistry – an overview
Authors: Weber Elisabeth , Richter Elmar , Holze Rudolf
Published: March 2022

The substituted aromatic amineo-toluidine (2-methylaniline, 1-amino-2-methylbenzene) is frequently encountered in electrochemical research as a soluble corrosion inhibitor dissolved in aqueous media used e.g., in cooling systems, as a homomonomer for formation of intrinsically conducting poly-o-toluidine and as a comonomer in formation of respective copolymers and their composites. The obtained polymers are suggested as corrosion protection coatings, as active materials in devices for electrochemical energy storage, but more frequently, they are examined as active components in electrochemical sensors.

The significant and pronounced carcinogenicity ofo-toluidine has hardly been addressed; presumably, most researchers are not even aware of this property. After a brief summary of the health risks and effects, the following overview presents typical examples of said studies and applications. If possible, substitutes with lower health risks are proposed, at least further studies enabling such replacement are suggested.
Aqueous spray-drying synthesis of alluaudite Na2+2xFe2−x(SO4)3 sodium insertion material: studies of electrochemical activity, thermodynamic stability, and humidity-induced phase transition
Authors: Barman Pubali , Dwibedi Debasmita , Jayanthi K. , Meena Sher Singh , Nagendran Supreeth , Navrotsky Alexandra , Barpanda Prabeer
Published: March 2022

In pursuit of high-energy density sodium insertion materials, polyanionic frameworks can be designed with tuneable high-voltage operation stemming from inductive effect. Alluaudite Na2Fe2(SO4)3 polysulfate forms one such earth-abundant compound registering the highest Fe3+/Fe2+ redox potential (ca. 3.8 V vs. Na/Na+). While this SO4-based system exhibits high voltage operation, it is prone to thermal decomposition and moisture attack leading to hydrated derivatives, making its synthesis cumbersome. Also, the Na–Fe–S–O quaternary system is rich with (anhydrous to hydrated) phase transitions. Herein, we demonstrate scalable aqueous-based spray drying synthesis of alluaudite Na2+2xFe2−x(SO4)3 sodium insertion material involving the formation of bloedite Na2Fe(SO4)2·4H2O as an intermediate phase. Moreover, a reversible phase transition from alluaudite to bloedite under controlled conditions of temperature and relative humidity is reported for the first time. Thermochemistry measurements revealed the enthalpies of formation (ΔH°f) of alluaudite and bloedite are exothermic. Hydrated bloedite (ΔH°f =  −117.16 ± 1.10 kJ/mol) was found to be significantly more energetically stable than anhydrous alluaudite (ΔH°f =  −11.76 ± 1.25 kJ/mol). The calorimetric data support the observed synthesis and transformation (hydration-dehydration) pathways. Spray drying route led to spherical morphology delivering capacity ~80 mAh/g. Spray drying can be extended for rapid economic synthesis of sulfate class of battery materials.
Transition to PCR diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis in the Norwegian healthcare system: could the increase in reported cases be due to higher sensitivity or a change in the testing algorithm?
Authors: Campbell Sophie M. , Pettersen Frank O. , Brekke Hanne , Hanevik Kurt , Robertson Lucy J.
Published: March 2022

Cryptosporidiosis has been a notifiable infection in Norway since 2012 and giardiasis since 1977. For both infections, there has been an increase in notified cases. We used a questionnaire to explore whether this may be associated with implementation of molecular diagnostic methods. We received responses from 14 of 16 laboratories, most of which had implemented molecular diagnostic methods for these parasites. Algorithms for testing had also been modified, and several laboratories now test more faecal samples than previously for both parasites. The increase in reported cases may reflect not only higher sensitivity of diagnostic methods, but also more sample testing.
Analysis of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) needs and PrEP use in Germany among men who have sex with men
Authors: Marcus Ulrich , Schmidt Daniel , Schink Susanne B. , Koppe Uwe
Published: March 2022

Aims

We aim to estimate the number of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users among men having sex with men (MSM) in Germany from 2017 through 2020, and analyse if PrEP needs expressed in 2017 might have been met by the expansion of PrEP until 2020.

Subject and methods

We estimated the number of PrEP users by using drug prescription data and information on on-demand/intermittent PrEP use from online surveys to determine the proportion of on-demand/intermittent and daily PrEP use as well as the average number of PrEP pills used.

The number of MSM in need of PrEP in 2017 was estimated based on four groups defined among respondents to a large online survey, combining respondents with PrEP use intention and respondents indicating substantial sexual risks. The size of each group was estimated based on self-selection biases. MSM with PrEP need in 2017 were compared with the estimated number of persons taking PrEP by June 2020.

Results

We estimated a total of 15,600 to 21,600 PrEP users in Germany by the end of June 2020, corresponding to 40–55% of men with PrEP use intention in 2017. A correlation between the regional distribution of PrEP use intention in 11/2017 and actual PrEP use by 06/2020 suggested an unequal regional distribution of unsatisfied needs. The number of men with unmet PrEP needs ranged between 27,500 and 93,000 in 06/2020.

Conclusion

PrEP use in Germany has increased considerably between 10/2017 and 06/2020, but large regional inequalities persist. PrEP is not yet readily accessible, and there is a need to expand services and encourage uptake.
Radicalization in Adolescence: the Identification of Vulnerable Groups
Authors: Schröder Carl Philipp , Bruns Jannik , Lehmann Lena , Goede Laura-Romina , Bliesener Thomas , Tomczyk Samuel
Published: March 2022

Given that the normative search for identity and belonging, as well as political socialization, plays an important role during adolescence, this life stage is characterized by high vulnerability to radicalization processes. When investigating the influence of different factors on radicalization processes, latent profile analysis can identify and analyze groups of adolescents with different vulnerabilities. Based on a sample of 6,715 ninth-graders from Germany, we identified six latent classes with specific vulnerabilities to right-wing attitudes as one possible outcome of radicalization. The results show that the class with the highest approval of right-wing statements mainly consists of male adolescents with a high sense of relative disadvantage and social deprivation. Specific family ties constitute a unique feature among those who are indifferent in their attitudes.
The impact of e-learning, gender-groupings and learning pedagogies in biology undergraduate female and male students’ attitudes and achievement
Authors: Almasri Firas
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to compare female and male students’ attitudes and achievements within different learning settings determined by e-learning and in-classroom learning modalities, collaborative (CL), and traditional (TL) learning pedagogies and investigated the effect of single-gender (SG) and mixed-gender (MG) grouping in an undergraduate biology course. 1375 biology students enrolled in a public university were randomly divided into 12 learning settings. Keller’s ARCS model and Vygotsky’s Socio-cultural Theory were the theoretical frameworks that guided this study. Results indicated that females attained higher achievement and more positive attitude towards biology in TL and CL sections in single-gender compared to mix-gender classes; overall, academic achievements between females and males demonstrated a significant difference at P < .05. Females students performed relatively low achievement and had a negative attitude toward biology in mix-gender CL groups (2 Females + 2 Males) compared to single-gender CL groups (4 Females) in in-classroom modality. E-learning attenuated the negative impact of mixed-gender grouping on female students within e-learning CL settings. The effect size value indicated that males benefited more than females from mixed-gender CL (2F + 2 M) pedagogy in e-learning and in-classroom modalities. Thus, e-learning may encourage female students to overcome the socio-cultural barrier that leads them to feel reticence in mixed-gender groups. The study helps to understand the most suitable learning settings for female and male students to decrease gender disparities, reduce the negative influences of stereotypical threats in different socio-cultural environments, and develop learning strategies to further equalize opportunities for females and male students, promoting students’ attitudes and achievement in undergraduate biology education.
Vision-Based 2D Navigation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Riverine Environments with Imitation Learning
Authors: Wei Peng , Liang Ryan , Michelmore Andrew , Kong Zhaodan
Published: March 2022

There have been many researchers studying how to enable unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to navigate in complex and natural environments autonomously. In this paper, we develop an imitation learning framework and use it to train navigation policies for the UAV flying inside complex and GPS-denied riverine environments. The UAV relies on a forward-pointing camera to perform reactive maneuvers and navigate itself in 2D space by adapting the heading. We compare the performance of a linear regression-based controller, an end-to-end neural network controller and a variational autoencoder (VAE)-based controller trained with data aggregation method in the simulation environments. The results show that the VAE-based controller outperforms the other two controllers in both training and testing environments and is able to navigate the UAV with a longer traveling distance and a lower intervention rate from the pilots.
The ascension of nanosponges as a drug delivery carrier: preparation, characterization, and applications
Authors: Tiwari Kartik , Bhattacharya Sankha
Published: March 2022

Nanosponges are nanosized drug carriers with a three-dimensional structure created by crosslinking polymers. They have the advantage of being able to hold a wide range of drugs of various sizes. Nanosponges come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are distinguished by the research method used, the type of polymer used, and the type of drug they may contain. Nanosponges are superior to other delivery systems because they can provide a controlled drug release pattern with targeted drug delivery. The period of action, as well as the drug’s residence time, may be regulated. Since it is made of biodegradable materials, it has a low toxicity and is safe to use. The efficiency of drug encapsulation is determined by the size of the drug molecule and the amount of void space available. Cancer, enzyme and biocatalyst carrier, oxygen delivery, solubility enhancement, enzyme immobilization, and poison absorbent are some of the applications for nanosponges. The method of preparation, characterization, factors affecting nanosponge development, drug loading and release mechanism, recent developments in this area, and patents filed in the area of nanosponges are all highlighted in this study.
Computational graph pangenomics: a tutorial on data structures and their applications
Authors: Baaijens Jasmijn A. , Bonizzoni Paola , Boucher Christina , Della Vedova Gianluca , Pirola Yuri , Rizzi Raffaella , Sirén Jouni
Published: March 2022

Computational pangenomics is an emerging research field that is changing the way computer scientists are facing challenges in biological sequence analysis. In past decades, contributions from combinatorics, stringology, graph theory and data structures were essential in the development of a plethora of software tools for the analysis of the human genome. These tools allowed computational biologists to approach ambitious projects at population scale, such as the 1000 Genomes Project. A major contribution of the 1000 Genomes Project is the characterization of a broad spectrum of genetic variations in the human genome, including the discovery of novel variations in the South Asian, African and European populations—thus enhancing the catalogue of variability within the reference genome. Currently, the need to take into account the high variability in population genomes as well as the specificity of an individual genome in a personalized approach to medicine is rapidly pushing the abandonment of the traditional paradigm of using a single reference genome. A graph-based representation of multiple genomes, or a graph pangenome, is replacing the linear reference genome. This means completely rethinking well-established procedures to analyze, store, and access information from genome representations. Properly addressing these challenges is crucial to face the computational tasks of ambitious healthcare projects aiming to characterize human diversity by sequencing 1M individuals (Stark et al. 2019). This tutorial aims to introduce readers to the most recent advances in the theory of data structures for the representation of graph pangenomes. We discuss efficient representations of haplotypes and the variability of genotypes in graph pangenomes, and highlight applications in solving computational problems in human and microbial (viral) pangenomes.
The adoption of precision agriculture enabling technologies in Swiss outdoor vegetable production: a Delphi study
Authors: Ammann Jeanine , Umstätter Christina , El Benni Nadja
Published: March 2022

Digital technologies are a promising means to tackle the increasing global challenges (e.g., climate change, water pollution, soil degradation) and revolutionising agricultural production. The current research used a two-stage Delphi study with 34 experts from various domains, including production, advisory and research, to identify the key drivers and barriers, the most promising technologies and possible measures to support technology adoption in Swiss outdoor vegetable production. Combining these experts’ views, the method provides realistic scenarios for future development. In Round 1, open-ended questions were used to collect the experts’ opinions. These were then transformed into closed-ended questions for Round 2, where controlled feedback was provided to the experts. Twenty-six experts participated in both rounds, resulting in an overall response rate that was comparably high (76%). It was found that economic factors were important drivers and barriers in technology adoption and, consequently, the experts recommended financial measures to support this adoption. The practical relevance of new technologies provided through communication and education holds further potential in terms of their promotion. These findings are valuable beyond the research field. Educators and policy makers can build on the results and optimally align their efforts to target technology adoption and contribute to more sustainable agriculture.
Malnutrition management of hospitalized patients with diabetes/hyperglycemia and COVID-19 infection
Authors: Burgos Rosa , García-Almeida José Manuel , Matía-Martín Pilar , Palma Samara , Sanz-Paris Alejandro , Zugasti Ana , Alfaro José Joaquín , Fullana Ana Artero , Continente Alfonso Calañas , Chicetru María Jesús , Malpartida Katherine García , Faes Ángela González , Sánchez Víctor González , López María Lainez , Ortega Antonio Jesús Martínez , Roldán Juana Oliva , Moreno Clara Serrano , Llanos Pablo Suárez
Published: March 2022

Diabetes mellitus and/or hyperglycemia are highly prevalent medical conditions in patients hospitalized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and are associated with adverse outcomes. In addition, COVID-19 itself can provoke fluctuating and high glucose levels that can be difficult to manage upon hospitalization. Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 are at high risk of malnutrition due to an increase in nutritional requirements and a severe acute inflammatory response. The management of patients with diabetes/hyperglycemia and COVID-19 is challenging and requires a specific nutritional approach, the purpose of which is to fulfill the nutritional requirements while maintaining an optimal glycemic control. In this study, an expert group of nutritional endocrinologists carried out a qualitative literature review and provided recommendations based on evidence and guidelines, when available, or on their own experience. The optimal care based on these recommendations was compared with the routine bedside care as reported by a panel of physicians (mainly, endocrinologists, geriatricians, and internists) treating patients with diabetes/hyperglycemia and COVID-19 in their daily practice. Early screening and diagnosis, a diabetes-specific therapeutic approach, and a close malnutrition monitoring are essential to improve the clinical outcomes of these patients. In conclusion, the proposed recommendations are intended to provide a useful guide on the clinical management of malnutrition in patients with COVID-19 and diabetes/hyperglycemia, in order to improve their outcomes and accelerate their recovery. The comparison of the recommended optimal care with routine clinical practice could aid to identify gaps in knowledge, implementation difficulties, and areas for improvement in the management of malnutrition in this population.
Geographically weighted regression model for physical, social, and economic factors affecting the COVID-19 pandemic spreading
Authors: Jasim Ihsan Abbas , Fileeh Moheb Kamil , Ebrahhem Mustafa A. , Al-Maliki Laheab A. , Al-Mamoori Sohaib K. , Al-Ansari Nadhir
Published: March 2022

This study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of the epidemic spread and the role of the physical, social, and economic characteristics in this spreading. A geographically weighted regression (GWR) model was built within a GIS environment using infection data monitored by the Iraqi Ministry of Health records for 10 months from March to December 2020. The factors adopted in this model are the size of urban interaction areas and human gatherings, movement level and accessibility, and the volume of public services and facilities that attract people. The results show that it would be possible to deal with each administrative unit in proportion to its circumstances in light of the factors that appear in it. So, there will not be a single treatment for all areas with different urban characteristics, which sometimes helps not to stop social and economic life due to the imposition of a comprehensive ban on movement and activities. Therefore, there will be other supportive policies other than the ban, depending on the urban indicators for each region, such as reducing external movement from it or relying on preventing public activities only.
Fungal diversity in the tropics: Entoloma spp. in Panama
Authors: Reschke Kai , Noordeloos Machiel E. , Manz Cathrin , Hofmann Tina A. , Rodríguez-Cedeño José , Dima Bálint , Piepenbring Meike
Published: March 2022

Entoloma(Agaricales, Basidiomycota) is a species-rich genus with approximately 2000 species known worldwide. In Central America, however, information about the species of this genus is sparse, despite the generally high biodiversity in this region. Recently, 124 specimens ofEntolomawere collected in Panama, Chiriquí Province. In the present publication, the morphology of 20 species represented by more than one specimen is described and depicted with photographs, line drawings, and scanning electron micrographs. Molecular phylograms based on ITS or concatenated ITS and partial nc LSU rDNA sequences are provided. The taxonomic status of these species is evaluated and 17 species ofEntolomaare described as new to science. Only one species could be assigned to an already known species, viz.Entoloma belouvense.Nolanea albertinae, described from Brazil, appeared similar and is combined inE. belouvenseon varietal level. The identifications of two further species are uncertain. At least 30 other species, including potentially new species, cannot formally be described due to insufficient material. A preliminary key to the species of the genusEntolomain Panama is provided. The spatial shape of the polyhedroid basidiospores ofEntolomaspp. is discussed based on literature and the micrographs generated for the present study. Our re-evaluations indicate that the type of polyhedroid basidiospore and the structure of its base are not reliable as diagnostic characters for the delimitation of subgenera inEntoloma.
Revisiting Hebeloma (Hymenogastraceae, Agaricales) in Japan: four species recombined into other genera but three new species discovered
Authors: Eberhardt Ursula , Schütz Nicole , Bartlett Peter , Hosaka Kentaro , Kasuya Taiga , Beker Henry J.
Published: March 2022

Here, we present the results of studies of Japanese Hebeloma collections. The four species described by Imai as Hebeloma (H. fimicola, H. helvolescens, H. humosum, and H. tomoeae) are not from the genus Hebeloma, but are members of Agrocybe, Homophron, or Pholiota. Recombinations are made. Hebelomacrustuliniforme f. microspermum, described by Hongo, is a synonym of H. nanum. Three species of Hebeloma are described as new to science, all currently known only from Japan. Two of these species, H. asperosporum and H. cinnamomeum, are members of H. sect. Denudata while the third species H. citrisporum belongs to H. sect. Velutipes. Japanese records of H. cavipes, H. eburneum, H. hygrophilum, H. subtortum, and H. velutipes are validated. In total, fifteen species of Hebeloma are confirmed from Japan; this is compared with previous checklists.
Allergic Rhinitis and House Dust Mite Sensitization Determine Persistence of Asthma in Children
Authors: Brzozowska A. , Woicka-Kolejwa K. , Jerzynska J. , Majak P. , Stelmach I.
Published: March 2022

Objective

To specify clinical and immunological parameters of the mechanisms, which may lead to development of persistent asthma, or regression of the disease symptoms.

Methods

Eighty children with childhood asthma, diagnosed in the past by using the modified Asthma Predicted Index (mAPI), were divided into two groups: remission group and persistent group. There were 3 study visits (baseline, at 6 mo, and at 12 mo). Clinical remission of asthma was defined as the absence of asthma symptoms for at least 12 mo without treatment. The patients could switch from one group to another during the 12 mo of follow-up. Clinical, inflammatory, and immunoregulatory predictors of asthma remission/persistence were analyzed.

Results

The presence of mAPI criteria as well as house dust mite (HDM) allergy and allergic rhinitis at 7–10 y, were associated with a reduced prevalence of asthma remission. The increased eosinophil blood count in mAPI criteria was associated with a lower expression of CD25 positive cells. HDM allergy was associated with a higher fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) level (p = 0.0061) and higher expression of CD25CD71 (p = 0.0232). Allergic rhinitis was associated with a higher expression of PPAR (p = 0.0493) and CD25CD71 (p = 0.0198), and lower expression of glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP).

Conclusions

Persistence of childhood asthma was largely determined by the presence of allergic rhinitis and sensitization to HDM. Additionally, API criteria but not immunoregulation processes, were related to asthma persistence.
Effect of petrography and diagenesis on the sandstone reservoir quality: a case study of the Middle Miocene Kareem Formation in the North Geisum oil field, Gulf of Suez, Egypt
Authors: Abu-Hashish Mohamed F. , Afify Hamdy M.
Published: March 2022

Kareem Formation is one of the most important hydrocarbon reservoirs in the Gulf of Suez. It contributes significantly to the total Egyptian oil production; therefore, the current work is to emphasise the influence of siliclastic facies types and their diagenetic processes on the reservoir quality of the Kareem Formation. A comprehensive log and core analyses were used to determine both the petrophysical and petrographical characteristics. Three classic facies have been identified: two sandstone facies with reservoir potential and one shale facies. Facies I is coarse-grained sandstone with high-angle cross-bedding, distributary/braided channel deposits on the active part of a mid-submarine fan lobe and is represented by beds of (Shagar Member). Facies II is fine-grained sandy beds represented by low-angle crudely, cross-bedded sandstone encountered in the Rahmi Member. Facies III is mainly shale and recorded in the Rahmi clastic zone. Petrographically, the quartz arenite microfacies are dominant in the Shagar sand zone and show the highest potential zones in the Kareem Formation. On the other hand, quartz lithic arenite and calcareous lithic arenite constitute the major microfacies in the Rahmi clastic zone and show the lowest reservoir quality. The main diagenetic processes that enhance the sandstone reservoir intervals of the Kareem Formation are the microfracturing of mineral grains and the dissolution of both feldspar and carbonate cement. In contrast, the amount of cementing materials, particularly authigenic carbonate and clay cements, led to diminishing of the reservoir quality of the studied Kareem Formation.
Interpolation of Precipitation Extremes on a Large Domain Toward IDF Curve Construction at Unmonitored Locations
Authors: Jalbert Jonathan , Genest Christian , Perreault Luc
Published: March 2022

An intensity–duration–frequency (IDF) curve describes the relationship between rainfall intensity and duration for a given return period and location. Such curves are obtained through frequency analysis of rainfall data and commonly used in infrastructure design, flood protection, water management, and urban drainage systems. However, they are typically available only in sparse locations. Data for other sites must be interpolated as the need arises. This paper describes how extreme precipitation of several durations can be interpolated to compute IDF curves on a large, sparse domain. In the absence of local data, a reconstruction of the historical meteorology is used as a covariate for interpolating extreme precipitation characteristics. This covariate is included in a hierarchical Bayesian spatial model for extreme precipitations. This model is especially well suited for a covariate gridded structure, thereby enabling fast and precise computations. As an illustration, the methodology is used to construct IDF curves over Eastern Canada. An extensive cross-validation study shows that at locations where data are available, the proposed method generally improves on the current practice of Environment and Climate Change Canada which relies on a moment-based fit of the Gumbel extreme-value distribution.
Parent Perceptions of Sleep-Related Stereotypy Within Sleep Problems in Children on the Autism Spectrum: Implications for Behavioral Treatment
Authors: Hunter Jolene E. , McLay Laurie K. , France Karyn G. , Swit Cara S. , Blampied Neville M.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Sleep problems in children on the autism spectrum may be affected by core diagnostic characteristics, including stereotypy (restricted and repetitive behaviors). Little is known about the nature of sleep-related stereotypy and its role within sleep disturbance. This study aimed to improve our understanding of the types of sleep-related stereotypy, its potential role within sleep difficulties, and how parents manage night-time stereotypy, in children on the autism spectrum.

Methods

This qualitative study used thematic analysis to analyze clinical assessment reports obtained from 21 parents of children on the autism spectrum referred for behavioral sleep intervention. Five themes, including the types of stereotypy, timing within sleep problems, stereotypy as sleep-interfering, stereotypy as sleep-conducive, and parent-responses, were identified. A clinical case study illustrates the potential role of vocal stereotypy within night wakings, through functional assessment and treatment of sleep problems in a child on the autism spectrum.

Results

Stereotypy included vocal and motor behaviors and repetitive manipulation of objects. Parents perceived stereotypy as both problematic and as beneficial to sleep, which may differentially affect behavioral treatment. Parent responses to stereotypy were varied and included co-sleeping. The case study highlights the complexity of the sleep and stereotypy relationship and the difficulty in treating automatically maintained behavior in the sleep context.

Conclusion

The function that stereotypy serves in relation to sleep disturbance is unclear and may differ across and within children. It is important we seek to better understand the specific ways that stereotypy may affect sleep, and vice versa, to improve clinical management of sleep problems in children on the autism spectrum.
An Approach to a Novel Device Agnostic Model Illustrating the Relative Change in Physical Behavior Over Time to Support Behavioral Change
Authors: Åkerberg Anna , Arwald Jan , Söderlund Anne , Lindén Maria
Published: March 2022

Today, there is a lack of useful visual presentations of data showing progress over long time periods for users of physical activity self-monitoring devices. The aim of this paper was to present a novel theoretical model that describes the relative change in physical behavior over time and to provide examples of model application with previously collected data. Physical behavior, which includes both sedentary behavior and physical activity, was categorized into four dimensions and further processed and adjusted to fit the novel model. The model was visualized both theoretically and by using example data for two out of 20 participants, illustrating the relative change compared to baseline and trendlines for all dimensions. This approach to a novel device agnostic model can visualize the data over time and is intended to be used on an individual basis by users that need support for physical behavioral change. The model, which is based on earlier research, has flexibility and was developed to be used as a complement for data processing, to future and currently available self-monitoring devices within this arena. In the future, the novel model should be studied to see if it is valid, tested with larger samples over longer study periods, and tested for use with other self-monitoring devices to ensure its usefulness and trustworthiness.
Sample Size Determination for Bayesian Hierarchical Models Commonly Used in Psycholinguistics
Authors: Vasishth Shravan , Yadav Himanshu , Schad Daniel J. , Nicenboim Bruno
Published: March 2022

We discuss an important issue that is not directly related to the main theses of the van Doorn et al. (Computational Brain and Behavior, 2021) paper, but which frequently comes up when using Bayesian linear mixed models: how to determine sample size in advance of running a study when planning a Bayes factor analysis. We adapt a simulation-based method proposed by Wang and Gelfand (Statistical Science193–208, 2002) for a Bayes factor-based design analysis, and demonstrate how relatively complex hierarchical models can be used to determine approximate sample sizes for planning experiments.
Generalization at Retrieval Using Associative Networks with Transient Weight Changes
Authors: Shabahang Kevin D. , Yim Hyungwook , Dennis Simon J.
Published: March 2022

Without having seen a bigram like “her buffalo”, you can easily tell that it is congruent because “buffalo” can be aligned with more common nouns like “cat” or “dog” that have been seen in contexts like “her cat” or “her dog”—the novel bigram structurally aligns with representations in memory. We present a new class of associative nets we call Dynamic-Eigen-Nets, and provide simulations that show how they generalize to patterns that are structurally aligned with the training domain. Linear-Associative-Nets respond with the same pattern regardless of input, motivating the introduction of saturation to facilitate other response states. However, models using saturation cannot readily generalize to novel, but structurally aligned patterns. Dynamic-Eigen-Nets address this problem by dynamically biasing the eigenspectrum towards external input using temporary weight changes. We demonstrate how a two-slot Dynamic-Eigen-Net trained on a text corpus provides an account of bigram judgment-of-grammaticality and lexical decision tasks, showing it can better capture syntactic regularities from the corpus compared to the Brain-State-in-a-Box and the Linear-Associative-Net. We end with a simulation showing how a Dynamic-Eigen-Net is sensitive to syntactic violations introduced in bigrams, even after the associations that encode those bigrams are deleted from memory. Over all simulations, the Dynamic-Eigen-Net reliably outperforms the Brain-State-in-a-Box and the Linear-Associative-Net. We propose Dynamic-Eigen-Nets as associative nets that generalize at retrieval, instead of encoding, through recurrent feedback.
Space sustainability, advanced materials and micro/nanotechnologies for future life in outer Space
Authors: Santo Loredana
Published: March 2022

The idea of living in Space is more and more a highly topical question. Orbital stations, the Moon, Mars are new possible lands for living, but to reach this goal, new advanced materials should be investigated, and micro/nano technologies exploited considering a sustainable development. The building of spacecraft, habitat modules and spacesuits for astronauts and Space tourists for going to the deep space needs high performance and shielding materials and micro/nanoengineering. In this communication, the new concept of Space sustainability is highlighted, the achievement in advanced sustainable material design and testing in Space and the promising use of micro/nanotechnologies for space applications are discussed.
Alcohol among young people in Iraq: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Al Ansari Mustafa , Dawson Angela , Conigrave Katherine
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Young people in Iraq are exposed to conflict and trauma, and to alcohol references in uncensored international TV and media. Previous regional reviews indicate that alcohol is the least studied substance in Arab countries and no data on young people in Iraq were identified. Accordingly, we re-examined the scope of available literature on alcohol and Iraqi young people, including in studies where alcohol was not the primary focus.

Methods

Five major international databases (MEDLINE (OVID), Embase (OVID), PsycINFO (OVID), Scopus, Web of Science) and one local Iraqi database (Iraqi Academic Scientific Journals (IASJ)) were systematically searched for published articles up to 16 September 2019. Original articles that included any alcohol data on general Iraqi young or student samples were included.

Results

Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria from a total of 3374 results. All studies were cross-sectional and quantitative. Most alcohol data were incidental rather than the focus of the studies. All but two studies used face-to-face or pen-and-paper surveys. Each study reported on alcohol differently—with most not using validated tools. A wide range of drinking prevalence was reported (2.2%–23.7%). Studies reported a relatively high rate (12.2–56%) of alcohol misuse among those that drink. Alcohol was associated with risky behaviour in the two studies that reported on this measure.

Conclusion

Results suggest a low prevalence of drinking compared to non-Muslim Majority Countries (non-MMCs), and a relatively high prevalence of risk amongst drinkers. More research is needed using study methods and validated screening or diagnostic tools tailored for the local Iraqi context.
Psychological science in Argentina: current state & future directions
Authors: Giovannetti Federico , Cevasco Jazmín , Acosta Buralli Karen
Published: March 2022

Psychology was internationally developed as a scientific discipline. However, there continues to be a bias towards the publication of research with Western English–speaking samples. In consequence, it is important to understand what challenges non-English speaking countries are facing in their ability to contribute their research. Considering this, the goal of this article is to present an overview of the factors that may affect the development of scientific psychology in Argentina, including the professional practice of psychology, the teaching of psychology in higher education, and obstacles faced by graduate students who pursue research careers. Reviewing these topics will allow us to present the current state of psychological science in Argentina, and to propose future directions for scientific development.
‘Modified Phallourethroplasty’ as a Surgical Alternative to Phalloplasty With Urethral Lengthening: Technique, How We Present This Option to Patients, and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Smith Shannon M. , Yuan Nance , Lee Grace , Stelmar Jenna , Ray Edward , Garcia Maurice M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Most complications after masculinizing genital gender-affirming surgery (gGAS) are associated with urethral lengthening (+UL). While many transmasculine patients desire +UL for standing urination, not all patients prioritize this benefit over the significantly increased risk of complications. Currently, phalloplasty without UL (−UL) appears to be seldom offered, and previous −UL techniques create genital anatomy that is visibly different from the anatomy created by phallourethroplasty+UL (P+UL).

Aim

To describe a novel surgical technique to create a normal-appearing phallus tip, scrotum, and perineal urethral opening that avoids urethral complications associated with +UL.

Methods

We describe our surgical technique and approach to patient counseling. We report patient satisfaction outcomes from the first cohort of patients to undergo this ‘modified phallourethroplasty’ (−UL) approach to date.

Outcomes

Among patients who elected phalloplasty over metoidioplasty, 13/40 (32.5%) patients elected P−UL. Prior to 1/2020, before we standardized how we presented this option to patients, 17.4% elected this option. Of the patients that elected P−UL, 8 have completed first-stage and 7 have completed second-stage surgeries.

Results

All patients that have undergone P−UL have expressed satisfaction with body image and urinary function. Among patients asked to rank which of 14 preoperative factors were most important (1 = most important, 14 = least important), having a normal-appearing phallus (mean rank 4.14) and minimizing complications (mean rank 8.14) were ranked more highly than ability to urinate in a standing position (mean rank 9.14). When asked what factors most influenced their choice to have −UL (ranked from 1 to 9), elimination of risks was rated the most important (mean rank 2.71) and expected decrease in risk of needing revision surgery was rated the second most important (mean rank 3.57).

Clinical Implications

The significant reduction in +UL-related complications decrease morbidity, urgent revision surgeries, and cost to our healthcare system.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths include a novel technique that provides a surgical alternative to P+UL that eliminates the majority of phalloplasty related postoperative complications. Limitations include the small number of patients who have completed first and second stage surgery, and short follow up time.

Conclusion

It is important to understand what factors drive individual patients’ choices. Patients considering masculinizing gGAS should be offered both +UL and −UL options. The costs and benefits of each option should be presented objectively and in the context of each patient's unique priorities and needs.