bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disrupted Dynamic Functional Connectivity in Distinguishing Subjective Cognitive Decline and Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment Based on the Triple-Network Model
Authors: Xue Chen , Qi Wenzhang , Yuan Qianqian , Hu Guanjie , Ge Honglin , Rao Jiang , Xiao Chaoyong , Chen Jiu
Published: September 2021

Background: Subjective cognitive decline and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) were widely thought to be preclinical AD spectrum disorders, characterized by aberrant functional connectivity (FC) within the triple networks of the default mode network (DMN), the salience network (SN), and the executive control network (ECN). Dynamic FC (DFC) analysis can capture temporal fluctuations in brain FC during the scan, which static FC analysis cannot. The purpose of the current study was to explore the changes in dynamic FC within the triple networks of the preclinical AD spectrum and further reveal their potential diagnostic value in diagnosing preclinical AD spectrum disorders.

Methods: We collected resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 44 patients with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), 49 with aMCI, and 58 healthy controls (HCs). DFC analysis based on the sliding time-window correlation method was used to analyze DFC variability within the triple networks in the three groups. Then, correlation analysis was conducted to reveal the relationship between altered DFC variability within the triple networks and a decline in cognitive function. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis was used to assess the diagnostic accuracy of altered DFC variability within the triple networks in patients with SCD and aMCI.

Results: Compared with the HC group, the groups with SCD and aMCI both showed altered DFC variability within the triple networks. DFC variability in the right middle temporal gyrus and left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) within the ECN were significantly different between patients with SCD and aMCI. Moreover, the altered DFC variability in the left IFG within the ECN was obviously associated with a decline in episodic memory and executive function. The logistic regression analysis showed that multivariable analysis had high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing SCD and aMCI.

Conclusions: Subjective cognitive decline and aMCI showed varying degrees of change in DFC variability within the triple networks and altered DFC variability within the ECN involved episodic memory and executive function. More importantly, altered DFC variability and the triple-network model proved to be important biomarkers for diagnosing and identifying patients with preclinical AD spectrum disorders.
The Chloride Homeostasis of CA3 Hippocampal Neurons Is Not Altered in Fully Symptomatic Mepc2-null Mice
Authors: Belaïdouni Yasmine , Diabira Diabe , Zhang Jinwei , Graziano Jean-Charles , Bader Francesca , Montheil Aurelie , Menuet Clément , Wayman Gary A. , Gaiarsa Jean-Luc
Published: September 2021

Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused mainly by mutations in the MECP2 gene. Mouse models of RTT show reduced expression of the cation-chloride cotransporter KCC2 and altered chloride homeostasis at presymptomatic stages. However, whether these alterations persist to late symptomatic stages has not been studied. Here we assess KCC2 and NKCC1 expressions and chloride homeostasis in the hippocampus of early [postnatal (P) day 30–35] and late (P50–60) symptomatic male Mecp2-null (Mecp2–/y) mice. We found (i) no difference in the relative amount, but an over-phosphorylation, of KCC2 and NKCC1 between wild-type (WT) and Mecp2–/y hippocampi and (ii) no difference in the inhibitory strength, nor reversal potential, of GABAA-receptor-mediated responses in Mecp2–/y CA3 pyramidal neurons compared to WT at any stages studied. Altogether, these data indicate the presence of a functional chloride extrusion mechanism in Mecp2–/y CA3 pyramidal neurons at symptomatic stages.
Deficiency of the CYLD Impairs Fear Memory of Mice and Disrupts Neuronal Activity and Synaptic Transmission in the Basolateral Amygdala
Authors: Li Hui-dong , Li Dan-ni , Yang Li , Long Cheng
Published: September 2021

Fear learning and memory are crucial for animal survival. Abnormal fear memory is a hallmark of many neuropsychiatric disorders. Appropriate neuronal activation and excitability in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) are necessary for the formation of fear memory. The gene cylindromatosis (Cyld), which encodes a lysine-63 deubiquitinase, is expressed in several brain regions including the amygdala. The functions of the cylindromatosis protein (CYLD) in the regulation of the neuronal activity, neural circuits and fear memory, remain largely unknown, however. Here, we report that Cyld knockout impairs amygdala-dependent tone-cued fear memory. The number of c-Fos+ neurons responding to the tone-cued fear test was reduced in the BLA of Cyld–/– mice, suggesting that the absence of CYLD causes aberrant neuronal activation. We found that this aberrant neuronal activation in the BLA of Cyld–/– mice may relate to the decreased excitability of principal neurons. Another possibility of aberrant neuronal activation could be the impaired excitatory synaptic transmission in the BLA of Cyld–/– mice. Specifically, both the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents and the amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents in BLA principal neurons were decreased. In addition, Cyld mutation caused an increase in both the frequency of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in principal neurons and the number of parvalbumin+ interneurons, consistent with excessive local circuit inhibition in the BLA of Cyld–/– mice. Taken together, these results suggest that CYLD deficiency disrupts the neuronal activity and synaptic transmission in the BLA of mice which may contribute to the impaired fear memory observed in Cyld–/– mice.
Bleeding Risk Following Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer in Men on Baseline Anticoagulant or Antiplatelet Therapy
Authors: Pepin Abigail , Shah Sarthak , Pernia Monica , Lei Siyuan , Ayoob Marilyn , Danner Malika , Yung Thomas , Collins Brian T. , Suy Simeng , Aghdam Nima , Collins Sean P.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Patients on anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications are at a high risk of bleeding following external beam radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer. SBRT may reduce the bleeding risk by decreasing the volume of bladder/rectum receiving high doses. This retrospective study sought to evaluate the rates of hematuria and hematochezia following SBRT in these patients.

Methods

Localized prostate cancer patients treated with SBRT from 2007 to 2017 on at least one anticoagulant/antiplatelet at baseline were included. The minimum follow-up was 3 years with a median follow-up of 72 months. Patients who had a rectal spacer placed prior to SBRT were excluded. Radiotherapy was delivered in 5 fractions to a dose of 35 Gy or 36.25 Gy utilizing the CyberKnife system. Hematuria and hematochezia were prospectively assessed before and after treatment using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC-26). Toxicities were scored using the CTCAE v4. Cystoscopy and colonoscopy findings were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Forty-four men with a median age of 72 years with a history of taking at least one anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet medication received SBRT. Warfarin (46%), clopidogrel (34%) and rivaroxaban (9%) were the most common medications. Overall, 18.2% experienced hematuria with a median time of 10.5 months post-SBRT. Altogether, 38.6% experienced hematochezia with a median time of 6 months post-SBRT. ≥ Grade 2 hematuria and hematochezia occurred in 4.6% and 2.5%, respectively. One patient required bladder neck fulguration and one patient underwent rectal cauterization for multiple non-confluent telangiectasia. There were no grade 4 or 5 toxicities. Cystoscopy revealed bladder cancer (40%) and benign prostatic bleeding (40%) as the most common hematuria etiology. Colonoscopy demonstrated hemorrhoids (54.5%) and radiation proctitis (9.1%) as the main causes of hematochezia. There was no significant change from the mean baseline EPIC-26 hematuria and hematochezia scores at any point during follow up.

Conclusion

In patients with baseline anticoagulant usage, moderate dose prostate SBRT was well tolerated without rectal spacing. High grade bleeding toxicities were uncommon and resolved with time. Baseline anticoagulation usage should not be considered a contraindication to prostate SBRT.
Immunotherapeutic Potential of T Memory Stem Cells
Authors: Li Yujie , Wu Dengqiang , Yang Xuejia , Zhou Sufang
Published: September 2021

Memory T cells include T memory stem cells (TSCM) and central memory T cells (TCM). Compared with effector memory T cells (TEM) and effector T cells (TEFF), they have better durability and anti-tumor immunity. Recent studies have shown that although TSCM has excellent self-renewal ability and versatility, if it is often exposed to antigens and inflammatory signals, TSCM will behave as a variety of inhibitory receptors such as PD-1, TIM-3 and LAG-3 expression, and metabolic changes from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. These changes can lead to the exhaustion of T cells. Cumulative evidence in animal experiments shows that it is the least differentiated cell in the memory T lymphocyte system and is a central participant in many physiological and pathological processes in humans. It has a good clinical application prospect, so it is more and more important to study the factors affecting the formation of TSCM. This article summarizes and prospects the phenotypic and functional characteristics of TSCM, the regulation mechanism of formation, and its application in treatment of clinical diseases.
Preparation of Near-Infrared/Photoacoustic Dual-Mode Imaging and Photothermal/Chemo Synergistic Theranostic Nanoparticles and Their Imaging and Treating of Hepatic Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Yun , Lin Bixia , Li Kai , Zhao Yufeng , Sun Zhuo , He Chenchen , Jha Rajiv Kumar
Published: September 2021

At present, the clinical diagnosis of and treatment methods for hepatic carcinoma still fail to fully meet the needs of patients. The integrated theranostic system, in which functional materials are used to load different active molecules, created a new developmental direction for the combination treatment of hepatic carcinoma, realizing the synchronization of diagnosis and treatment. In this study, polydopamine (PDA), which has the functions of self-assembly, encapsulation, photothermal conversion, and photoacoustic interaction, was used as the carrier material. The IR780, a near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIFI), photoacoustic imaging (PAI), and photothermal therapy (PTT) agent, and paclitaxel (PTX), a broad-spectrum chemotherapy drug, were selected to build the NIF/PA dual-mode imaging and PTT/chemo synergistic theranostic nanoparticles (DIST NPs). The DIST NPs have a 103.4 ± 13.3 nm particle size, a weak negative charge on the surface, good colloidal stability, slow and controlled drug release, and high photothermal conversion ability. The experiments results showed that the DIST NPs have a long circulation in vivo, high bioavailability, high biocompatibility, and low effective dose. DIST NPs showed an excellent NIFI/PAI dual-mode imaging and significant synergistic antitumor effect in hepatic carcinoma models. DIST NPs met the initial design requirements. A set of fast and low-cost preparation methods was established. This study provides an experimental basis for the development of new clinical theranostic methods for hepatic carcinoma.
Parent-Child Assessment of Strengths and Difficulties of German Children and Adolescents Born With Esophageal Atresia
Authors: Witt Stefanie , Dingemann Jens , Dellenmark-Blom Michaela , Quitmann Julia
Published: September 2021

Introduction/Aim: Children and adolescents with a chronic somatic disease have a higher risk of developing psychological disorders than healthy peers. Therefore, we aim to investigate internalizing and behavioral problems in pediatric patients with esophageal atresia (EA) and compare this sample with German reference values using both childrens' self-reports and parents' proxy reports.

Methods: The present cross-sectional study is part of the German-Swedish EA-QOL study developing a condition-specific instrument to assess Health-related Quality of Life in children and adolescents born with EA from both self and proxy perspectives. The current analyses use data from the German sample collected within the field test phase. Participants were enrolled from the Medical School Hannover and “Auf der Bult” Children's Hospital, Hannover. The cooperating clinicians provided the medical records while socio-demographic information was collected through the parent-report within the questionnaires. We used the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) to measure internalizing and behavioral problems of children and adolescents born with EA ranging from 2 to 18 years.

Results: A total of 51 families participated in the field test phase. Eighty-eight parent reports and 22 child reports were included in the analyses. While the parents' perspective from the SDQ leads to a higher percentage of abnormal or borderline behavior, there is no difference to the reference group from the children's perspective.

Conclusion: Incorporating routine psychological assessment into pediatric health care can help improve understanding of the burden of illness, examine treatment outcomes, assess the quality of care, and tailor interventions to meet patient and parent needs. Involving the whole family can help develop appropriate and functional coping strategies. From our point of view, it is necessary to address parental needs and concerns as well in order to provide the best possible holistic development in the family system. The family is the basis for the children's successful development, especially for children with special health care needs.
Akkermansia Muciniphila Potentiates the Antitumor Efficacy of FOLFOX in Colon Cancer
Authors: Hou Xiaoying , Zhang Pei , Du Hongzhi , Chu Weihua , Sun Ruiqi , Qin Siyuan , Tian Yuan , Zhang Zunjian , Xu Fengguo
Published: September 2021

FOLFOX (oxaliplatin, fluorouracil and calcium folinate) is the first-line chemotherapy regimen for colon cancer therapy in the clinic. It provides superior efficacy than oxaliplatin alone, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, pharmacomicrobiomics integrated with metabolomics was conducted to uncover the role of the gut microbiome behind this. First, in vivo study demonstrated that FOLFOX exhibited better efficacy than oxaliplatin alone in colon cancer animal models. Second, 16S rDNA gene sequencing analysis showed that the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) remarkably increased in the FOLFOX treated individuals and positively correlated with the therapeutic effect. Third, further exploration confirmed A. muciniphila colonization significantly enhanced the anti-cancer efficacy of FOLFOX. Last, metabolomics analysis suggested dipeptides containing branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) might be responsible for gut bacteria mediated FOLFOX efficacy. In conclusion, our study revealed the key role of A. muciniphila in mediating FOLFOX efficacy, and manipulating A. muciniphila might serve as a novel strategy for colon cancer therapy.
Synergistic Activity of Capsaicin and Colistin Against Colistin-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: In Vitro/Vivo Efficacy and Mode of Action
Authors: Guo Tingting , Li Mengying , Sun Xiaoli , Wang Yuhang , Yang Liying , Jiao Hongmei , Li Guocai
Published: September 2021

Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen predominantly associated with nosocomial infections. With emerging resistance against polymyxins, synergistic combinations of drugs are being investigated as a new therapeutic approach. Capsaicin is a common constituent of the human diet and is widely used in traditional alternative medicines. The present study evaluated the antibacterial activities of capsaicin in combination with colistin against three unrelated colistin-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii strains in vitro and in vivo, and then further studied their synergistic mechanisms. Using the checkerboard technique and time-kill assays, capsaicin and colistin showed a synergistic effect on colistin-resistant A. baumannii. A mouse bacteremia model confirmed the in vivo effects of capsaicin and colistin. Mechanistic studies shown that capsaicin can inhibit the biofilm formation of both colistin-resistant and non-resistant A. baumannii. In addition, capsaicin decreased the production of intracellular ATP and disrupted the outer membrane of A. baumannii. In summary, the synergy between these drugs may enable a lower concentration of colistin to be used to treat A. baumannii infection, thereby reducing the dose-dependent side effects. Hence, capsaicin–colistin combination therapy may offer a new treatment option for the control of A. baumannii infection.
Effects of Self-Myofascial Release Using a Foam Roller on the Stiffness of the Gastrocnemius-Achilles Tendon Complex and Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion
Authors: Chang Tian-Tian , Li Zhe , Zhu Yuan-Chun , Wang Xue-Qiang , Zhang Zhi-Jie
Published: September 2021

Increased muscle stiffness can contribute to reduced range of motion (ROM) and impaired function. Reduced ankle dorsiflexion ROM has been associated with increased injury risk in the ankle. Self-myofascial release (SMR) has been widely used in clinical and sports settings, but the effects of SMR on gastrocnemius and Achilles tendon (AT) stiffness are unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effects of self-myofascial release using a foam roller (FR) on the stiffness of the gastrocnemius–AT complex and ankle dorsiflexion ROM. Fifty healthy, untrained, and non-sedentary participants (age=22.5±2.6years) were randomly divided into an intervention group (FR group) and a control group. The subjects in the intervention group received a single foam roller intervention (three sets of 1min), while the subjects in the control group performed a 5-min sedentary rest. Stiffness of the gastrocnemius–AT complex was evaluated using MyotonPRO and the ankle dorsiflexion ROM was assessed using the weight-bearing lunge test. For the foam roller and control groups, the between-group analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in gastrocnemius stiffness and ankle dorsiflexion ROM after intervention (p<0.05). Within-group analysis revealed a significant increase in ROM and a significant decrease in medial and lateral gastrocnemius (LG) stiffness for the foam roller group after the intervention (p<0.05). In addition, further analysis of the preintervention data revealed a significant negative correlation between ankle dorsiflexion ROM and AT stiffness (r=−0.378 and p=0.007). These results suggest that self-myofascial release using a foam roller on the calf is an effective method for decreasing the stiffness of the gastrocnemius and increasing ankle dorsiflexion ROM.
Language and Learner Specific Influences on the Emergence of Consonantal Place and Manner Features
Authors: Rose Yvan , Penney Natalie
Published: September 2021

This article focuses on the emergence of consonantal place and manner feature categories in the speech of first language learners. Starting with an overview of current representational approaches to phonology, we take the position that only models that allow for the emergence of phonological categories at all levels of phonological representation (from sub-segmental properties of speech sounds all the way to word forms represented within the child’s lexicon) can account for the data. We begin with a cross-linguistic survey of the acquisition of rhotic consonants. We show that the types of substitutions affecting different rhotics cross-linguistically can be predicted from two main observations: the phonetic characteristics of these rhotics and the larger system of categories displayed by each language. We then turn to a peculiar pattern of labial substitution for coronal continuants in the speech of a German learner. Building on previous literature on the topic, we attribute the emergence of this pattern to distributional properties of the child’s developing lexicon. Together, these observations suggest that our understanding of phonological emergence must involve a consideration of multiple, potentially interacting levels of phonetic and phonological representation.
Older Adults’ Experience of Meaning at the End of Life in Two Danish Hospices: A Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Viftrup Dorte Toudal , Prinds Christina , Nissen Ricko Damberg , Steenfeldt Vibeke Østergaard , Søndergaard Jens , Hvidt Niels Christian
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to explore how older adults (aged > 65) confronted with imminent death express their thoughts and feelings about death and dying and verbalize meaning. Furthermore, the aim was to investigate how health professionals could better address the needs of this patient group to experience meaning at the end of life. The study applied a qualitative method, involving semi-structured interviews with 10 participants at two hospices. The method of analysis was interpretative phenomenological analysis. We found three chronological time-based themes: (1) Approaching Death, (2) The time before dying, and (3) The afterlife. The participants displayed scarce existential vernacular for pursuing meaning with approaching death. They primarily applied understanding and vocabulary from a medical paradigm. The participants’ descriptions of how they experienced and pursued meaning in the time before dying were also predominantly characterized by medical vernacular, but these descriptions did include a few existential words and understandings. When expressing thoughts and meaning about the afterlife, participants initiated a two-way dialogue with the interviewer and primarily used existential vernacular. This indicates that the participants’ scarce existential vernacular to talk about meaning might be because people are not used to talking with healthcare professionals about meaning or their thoughts and feelings about death. They are mostly “trained” in medical vernacular. We found that participants’ use of, respectively, medical or existential vernacular affected how they experienced meaning and hope at the end of life. We encourage healthcare professionals to enter into existential dialogues with people to support and strengthen their experiences of meaning and hope at the end of life.
Spoken Word Segmentation in First and Second Language: When ERP and Behavioral Measures Diverge
Authors: Gilbert Annie C. , Lee Jasmine G. , Coulter Kristina , Wolpert Max A. , Kousaie Shanna , Gracco Vincent L. , Klein Denise , Titone Debra , Phillips Natalie A. , Baum Shari R.
Published: September 2021

Previous studies of word segmentation in a second language have yielded equivocal results. This is not surprising given the differences in the bilingual experience and proficiency of the participants and the varied experimental designs that have been used. The present study tried to account for a number of relevant variables to determine if bilingual listeners are able to use native-like word segmentation strategies. Here, 61 French-English bilingual adults who varied in L1 (French or English) and language dominance took part in an audiovisual integration task while event-related brain potentials (ERPs) were recorded. Participants listened to sentences built around ambiguous syllable strings (which could be disambiguated based on different word segmentation patterns), during which an illustration was presented on screen. Participants were asked to determine if the illustration was related to the heard utterance or not. Each participant listened to both English and French utterances, providing segmentation patterns that included both their native language (used as reference) and their L2. Interestingly, different patterns of results were observed in the event-related potentials (online) and behavioral (offline) results, suggesting that L2 participants showed signs of being able to adapt their segmentation strategies to the specifics of the L2 (online ERP results), but that the extent of the adaptation varied as a function of listeners' language experience (offline behavioral results).
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Over the Right Anterior Temporal Lobe Does Not Modulate False Recognition
Authors: Alonso María Angeles , Díez-Álamo Antonio M. , Gómez-Ariza Carlos J. , Díez Emiliano , Fernandez Angel
Published: September 2021

Non-invasive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the left anterior temporal lobe (ATL) has been shown to cause a reduction in the rate of false memories with semantically related words. Such a reduction seems to be specific to false memories induced by the study of associative lists, but is not observed when the studied lists are categorical in nature. These findings are interpreted as evidence that the left ATL functions as an integration hub that is crucial for the binding of semantic information into coherent representations of concepts. In order to investigate whether the right ATL might also contribute to semantic integration in the processing of verbal associative material, a follow-up tDCS study was conducted with the stimulation at study lateralized on the right ATL. A sample of 75 undergraduate students participated in an experiment in which they studied 8 associative lists and 8 categorical lists. One third of the participants studied all their word lists under anodal stimulation, another third studied under cathodal stimulation and the other third under sham stimulation. Results showed that stimulation of the right ATL by tDCS does not modulate false recognition for either association-related critical words or category-related critical words. These results provide preliminary support to views positing asymmetric connectivity between the anterior temporal lobes and the semantic representational network, and provide evidence for understanding bilateral brain dynamics and the nature of semantically induced memory distortions.
The Role of EFL Teachers' Self-Disclosure as Predictors of Student's Willingness to Communicate and Their Engagement
Authors: Liu Xingpei , Zhu Linhan
Published: September 2021

This study aims to delve into the role of teachers' self-disclosure on developing students' willingness to communicate (WTC) and students' engagement. First of all, a definition of willingness to communicate is proposed, then the concept of teachers' disclosure is explained. Moreover, the definition of engagement and its facilitators are mentioned. The interpersonal relationship between students and teachers with regard to some examples is discussed then. Finally, the significant effect of what has been disclosed by the teachers in both students' willingness to communicate and engagement is discussed. Some limitations in this line of study and pedagogical implications are proposed for avid researchers.
COVID-19 Responses of South Korea as Hybrids of Governance Modes
Authors: Lee Sora , Wong Ryan
Published: September 2021

The countries worldwide have adapted diverse governance approaches to the pandemic to suit their contexts. While the diversity of the country-specific governance responses has been widely discussed, the hybrids nature of those governance practices has been explored less. This study analyses the responses toward COVID-19 in South Korea as responsive dialogues of different modes of governance, i.e., consensus-based hierarchy, state-sponsored market, and principle-based network. This study aims to remind us that pandemic governance needs to enable organic and responsive processes for all actors in society. This conceptual discussion of the governance modes illustrates that the pandemic allowed the emergence of the hybrids of governance modes to cope better with the complex realities of the diverse sectors and actors in South Korea. The characteristic of the responses diverges from the conventional governance classification of or market-based. It is a responsive and evolving dialogue of different modes of governance. It would be productive to think beyond the oversimplified understandings of governance modes and embrace flexible and different hybrids of governance modes to be more responsive, effective, efficient, and equitable.
The Impact of Family Income on Body Mass Index and Self-Rated Health of Illiterate and Non-illiterate Rural Elderly in China: Evidence From a Fixed Effect Approach
Authors: Xin Yu , Ren Xiaohui
Published: September 2021

Background: Rural communities worldwide are experiencing the most significant levels of aging. Most rural elderly have no stable pension, and leading family income plays an indispensable role in the life security of rural elderly. This study aims to investigate whether the association between annual family income per capita and body mass index (BMI) and self-rated health (SRH) in rural elderly is moderated by education during fast economic development.

Methods: We chose the fixed-effects model to analyze the impact of the annual family income per capita change on BMI and SRH based on a large, nationally representative longitudinal dataset of rural respondents aged above 60 of the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) from 2010 to 2018.

Results: Six hundred and fifty-eight were eligible for inclusion in our analysis in CFPS. The median age of participants was 65 years in 2010, and 379 (57.60%) participants were male. Self-rated health increased with higher the logarithmized family income per capita among the rural illiterate elderly (β = 0.0770; 95% CI = 0.0065–0.1473). Body mass index increased with higher the logarithmized family income per capita among the rural elderly (β = 0.1614, 95% CI: 0.0325–0.2903), and it was more evident among the illiterate elderly (β = 0.2462, 95% CI: 0.05519–0.4372).

Conclusion: Family income has an impact on BMI and SRH moderated by education level among rural elderly in China. These results contribute to developing more targeted strategies in the context of a developing country. In addition, it also reminds us to consider the differences in the educational level of the elderly in rural areas when examining the relationship between family income and health.
Food Sovereignty and Rights-Based Approaches Strengthen Food Security and Nutrition Across the Globe: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sampson Devon , Cely-Santos Marcela , Gemmill-Herren Barbara , Babin Nicholas , Bernhart Annelie , Bezner Kerr Rachel , Blesh Jennifer , Bowness Evan , Feldman Mackenzie , Gonçalves André Luis , James Dana , Kerssen Tanya , Klassen Susanna , Wezel Alexander , Wittman Hannah
Published: September 2021

This systematic review assembles evidence for rights-based approaches–the right to food and food sovereignty–for achieving food security and adequate nutrition (FSN). We evaluated peer-reviewed and gray literature produced between 1992 and 2018 that documents empirical relationships between the right to food or food sovereignty and FSN. We classified studies by literature type, study region, policy approach (food sovereignty or right to food) and impact (positive, negative, neutral, and reverse-positive) on FSN. To operationalize the concepts of food sovereignty and the right to food and connect them to the tangible interventions and practices observed in each reviewed study, we also classified studies according to 11 action types theorized to have an impact on FSN; these included “Addressing inequities in land access and confronting the process of land concentration” and “Promoting gender equity,” among others. We found strong evidence from across the globe indicating that food sovereignty and the right to food positively influence FSN outcomes. A small number of documented cases suggest that narrow rights-based policies or interventions are insufficient to overcome larger structural barriers to realizing FSN, such as inequitable land policy or discrimination based on race, gender or class.
Algorithms for Bidding Strategies in Local Energy Markets: Exhaustive Search through Parallel Computing and Metaheuristic Optimization
Authors: Angulo Andrés , Rodríguez Diego , Garzón Wilmer , Gómez Diego F. , Al Sumaiti Ameena , Rivera Sergio
Published: September 2021

The integration of different energy resources from traditional power systems presents new challenges for real-time implementation and operation. In the last decade, a way has been sought to optimize the operation of small microgrids (SMGs) that have a great variety of energy sources (PV (photovoltaic) prosumers, Genset CHP (combined heat and power), etc.) with uncertainty in energy production that results in different market prices. For this reason, metaheuristic methods have been used to optimize the decision-making process for multiple players in local and external markets. Players in this network include nine agents: three consumers, three prosumers (consumers with PV capabilities), and three CHP generators. This article deploys metaheuristic algorithms with the objective of maximizing power market transactions and clearing price. Since metaheuristic optimization algorithms do not guarantee global optima, an exhaustive search is deployed to find global optima points. The exhaustive search algorithm is implemented using a parallel computing architecture to reach feasible results in a short amount of time. The global optimal result is used as an indicator to evaluate the performance of the different metaheuristic algorithms. The paper presents results, discussion, comparison, and recommendations regarding the proposed set of algorithms and performance tests.
Analysis of Heat and Mass Distribution in a Single- and Multi-Span Greenhouse Microclimate
Authors: Ogunlowo Qazeem Opeyemi , Akpenpuun Timothy Denen , Na Wook-Ho , Rabiu Anis , Adesanya Misbaudeen Aderemi , Addae Kwame Sasu , Kim Hyeon-Tae , Lee Hyun-Woo
Published: September 2021

Recently, heat and mass distributions within a greenhouse were assumed to be homogeneous. Heat is gained or lost in absolute terms, and crop contribution in a greenhouse or its effect is not considered. In this study, statistical analyses were conducted to establish the significance of heat and mass variation at sensor nodes in two single-span and multi-span greenhouses. Three greenhouses were used in this study, 168 m2 floor area a single-layered (SLG), double-layered (DLG) single-span gothic roof type greenhouses, and 7572.6 m2 floor area multi-span greenhouse (MSG). The microclimatic parameters investigated were temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), solar radiation (SR), carbon dioxide (CO2), and vapor pressure deficit (VPD). To check their horizontal distribution, all microclimate data collected from each sensor node in each greenhouse were subjected to descriptive statistics and Tukey honestly significant difference (HSD) test. The lowest minimum temperatures of 2.93 °C, 3.33 °C and 10.50 °C were recorded at sensor points in SLG, DLG, and MSG, respectively, whereas the highest maximum temperatures of 29.17 °C, 29.07 °C and 27.20 °C were recorded at sensor point, in SLG, DLG, and MSG, respectively. The difference between the center and the side into the single-span was approximately 0.88–1.0 °C and in the MSG was approximately 1.03 °C. Significant variation was observed in the horizontal distribution of T, RH, SR, and VPD within SLG, DLG, and MSG. Also significant was CO2 in the MSG. Estimating the energy demand of greenhouses should be done based on the distribution rather than assuming microclimatic parameters homogeneity, especially for T, with VPD as a control parameter. Such estimation should also be done using a crop model that considers instant changes in air and crop temperature.
Anticancer Activity of Some Ruthenium(III) Complexes with Quinolone Antibiotics: In Vitro Cytotoxicity, Cell Cycle Modulation, and Apoptosis-Inducing Properties in LoVo Colon Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Mihaila Mirela , Hotnog Camelia Mia , Bostan Marinela , Munteanu Alexandra Cristina , Vacaroiu Ileana Adela , Brasoveanu Lorelei Irina , Uivarosi Valentina
Published: September 2021

Cisplatin is one of the most effective anticancer agents used to treat colon cancer, which is the third malignancy between the most common human cancers in the world, but the resistance developed represents an obstacle against the full success of chemotherapy. An emerging interest appeared in finding other metallic compounds, such as ruthenium(III) complexes, for chemotherapeutic application in cancer. Our study focused on the anticancer activity of several ruthenium (Ru) complexes with quinolone antibiotics in colon tumor cell cultures. Real-time cell analysis and drug-mediated cytotoxicity tests monitored the inhibitory effects in the drug-treated LoVo colon cancer cells. Flow cytometry assays were performed to evaluate cell cycle phases distribution and apoptotic events. The obtained results showed dose-dependent increased levels of cell lysis and induction of apoptosis in LoVo cancer cells treated with the Ru(III) complexes. In addition, data showed a major decrease in cell proliferation, since the percentages of cells distributed in the S cell cycle phase diminished, and a G0/G1 cell arrest was observed. Therefore, our results strongly suggest that the newly synthesized Ru(III) complexes might play an important role in future chemotherapeutic approaches, since their activity is based on diminishing cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and modulation of cell cycle phases.
Assessment of Partial Discharges in the Air by Application of Corona Camera
Authors: Skubis Jerzy , Kozioł Michał
Published: September 2021

This paper reports the results of the analysis of measurements involving partial discharges (PD) occurring in the air using a corona camera (UV camera). The measurements were carried out in laboratory conditions and applied two electrode systems: needle–needle and needle–plate, in order to obtain various electric field distributions. The measurements of PDs, including a variety of alternatives, were carried out using a portable UV camera, taking into account the impact of the camera gain parameter and its distance from the PD sources. As a result, some important regularities and characteristics were identified that could significantly affect the ability to assess PDs by application of UV camera measurements. In addition, the results obtained can be employed for non-invasive diagnostic measurements performed on working power equipment and may be useful in further work on standardizing the result interpretation method obtained from measurements using a UV camera.
Developing a Recommendation Model for the Smart Factory System
Authors: Chang Chun-Yang , Tu Chun-Ai , Huang Wei-Luen
Published: September 2021

In Industry 4.0, the concept of a Smart Factory heralds a new phase in manufacturing; the Smart Factory System (SFS) will have a huge demand in Taiwan. However, the cost of constructing a factory system will be high, and the complexity processes and introduction time must be considered. Thus, it is important to figure out how to grasp the key success factors for Smart Factories to reduce difficulties in the process, deal with the occurrence of problems, and improve the success rate of constructing Smart Factories. This research constructs an SFS recommendation model to make up for past research deficiencies in terms of recommendation. It combines the methodology of the Engel–Kollat–Blackwell Model (EKB Model) and the Modified Delphi Method to derive SFS recommendation indicators. Through analyzing weights, the ELECTRE II was used to obtain the importance of each dimension by calculating the Modified Compound Advantage Matrix. For prototype indicators, it reviewed the past literature to find out deficiencies and examined the world’s four largest manufactories or computer technology corporations to analyze their Smart Factory solutions regarding the SFS function characteristics. The survey ran for several rounds with a group of five experts to amend indicators until a consensus was obtained. It proposed 64 indicators of 8 primary dimensions in total, based on the Updated Information System Success Model, and then added the concepts of SFS Function characteristics, Information Security, Perceived Value, Perceived Risk, and UI Design. According to the indicators, the framework and prototype of this system will provide solutions and references for purchasing SFS, the functions of which include SFS purchase ability analysis, demand analysis of manufacture problems, and raking and scoring of recommendation indicators. It will provide real-time ranking and the best alternative recommendations to suppliers, and will not only be referred to for design and modification but also enable the requirements to be closer to the users’ demands.
A Hybrid CNN-Based Review Helpfulness Filtering Model for Improving E-Commerce Recommendation Service
Authors: Li Qinglong , Li Xinzhe , Lee Byunghyun , Kim Jaekyeong
Published: September 2021

As the e-commerce market grows worldwide, personalized recommendation services have become essential to users’ personalized items or services. They can decrease the cost of user information exploration and have a positive impact on corporate sales growth. Recently, many studies have been actively conducted using reviews written by users to address traditional recommender system research problems. However, reviews can include content that is not conducive to purchasing decisions, such as advertising, false reviews, or fake reviews. Using such reviews to provide recommendation services can lower the recommendation performance as well as a trust in the company. This study proposes a novel review of the helpfulness-based recommendation methodology (RHRM) framework to support users’ purchasing decisions in personalized recommendation services. The core of our framework is a review semantics extractor and a user/item recommendation generator. The review semantics extractor learns reviews representations in a convolutional neural network and bidirectional long short-term memory hybrid neural network for review helpfulness classification. The user/item recommendation generator models the user’s preference on items based on their past interactions. Here, past interactions indicate only records in which the user-written reviews of items are helpful. Since many reviews do not have helpfulness scores, we first propose a helpfulness classification model to reflect the review helpfulness that significantly impacts users’ purchasing decisions in personalized recommendation services. The helpfulness classification model is trained about limited reviews utilizing helpfulness scores. Several experiments with the Amazon dataset show that if review helpfulness information is used in the recommender system, performance such as the accuracy of personalized recommendation service can be further improved, thereby enhancing user satisfaction and further increasing trust in the company.
Analysis of Process Costing for the Use of Navigation Systems in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Schwan Franziska Eva , Traxdorf Maximilian , Seebauer Caroline Theresa , Sekita Andrzej , Habekost Cornelia , Iro Heinrich , Bohr Christopher
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: The use of navigation systems is rarely necessary for routine sinus surgery. They may prove to be advantageous for difficult operations, for example, in finding structures that are difficult to reach, in the treatment of cancers, or in revisional surgery. Navigation systems are also said to have positive effects on the self-confidence of surgeons in stressful situations and in the training of doctors. (2) Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent surgical treatment for chronic sinusitis from 2012 to 2016 at the ENT clinic of the University Hospital, Erlangen. Two groups were formed; one includes patients without navigated sinus surgery, the other includes those with navigation. The incision–suture times of both groups and cost analysis are compared. An appropriate cost estimate for sinus surgery is determined. (3) Results: From the available results, no economically efficient navigation systems in sinus surgery at the ENT clinic can be shown. The main reason is that lengthening the operating time leads to higher costs. (4) Conclusions: Although the use of a navigation system for endonasal sinus surgery cannot be economically justified, it is an important tool, especially in cases with complex anatomical conditions, and the system is essential for training purposes.
Severe Reduction of Energy Availability in Controlled Conditions Causes Poor Endurance Performance, Impairs Explosive Power and Affects Hormonal Status in Trained Male Endurance Athletes
Authors: Jurov Iva , Keay Nicola , Rauter Samo
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to severely reduce energy availability (EA) in controlled conditions in trained male endurance athletes to observe any effects on health, performance, and psychological and energy markers. EA was reduced by 50% over 14 days in athletes by maintaining identical energy intake and increasing exercise energy expenditure. Blood was drawn, performance was measured by three specific tests (endurance, explosive power and agility) and two psychological questionnaires were used. Reduced EA (17.3 ± 5.0 kcal/kg FFM/day) resulted in lower body fat% (t(12) = 3.36, p = 0.006), lower power output and relative power output (t(12) = 2.69, p = 0.021 t(12) = 2.34, p = 0.036), explosive power was reduced (t(12) = 6.41, p = 0.000), lactate metabolism was altered (p = 0.001). EA was negatively correlated with haemoglobin and testosterone (r = −0.557, p = 0.30 and r = −0.532, p = 0.037), anaerobic threshold (r = −0.597, p = 0.02) and respiratory compensation point (r = −0.575, p = 0.025). There were significant differences in Well-being (t(12) = 4.11, p = 0.002) and the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire (t(12) = −2.71, p = 0.020). This is the first study to demonstrate that endurance performance and explosive power can be affected before detrimental health effects occur in male athletes. Drastic reductions of EA could lead to poor eating behaviours. The two psychological questionnaires seem to be more sensitive to EA changes than blood markers.
The Nexus between Environmental Impact and Agricultural Sector Linkages: A Case Study of Pakistan
Authors: Sajid Muhammad Jawad , Rahman Muhammad Habib ur
Published: September 2021

Agriculture has a substantial environmental impact. However, little research has been conducted on the relationship between agriculture’s environmental impacts and linkages, particularly for the key agriculture-based Pakistani economy. Additionally, the literature on environmental linkages rarely estimates multiple types of linkages in a single study. This study fills these critical research gaps. The study estimates the land, water, nitrogen, and CO2 impacts and linkages of Pakistan’s agriculture sector using an input–output model and the hypothetical extraction method. The results indicated that agriculture directly accounted for approximately 27%, 93%, 92%, and 1% of Pakistan’s total sectoral land, water, nitrogen, and CO2 impacts (LWNC), respectively. While the sector indirectly contributed almost 2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.4% of Pakistan’s total LWNC. The bulk of direct LWNC impacts were caused by agricultural purchases from downstream sectoral importers. The majority of the indirect LWNC impacts were induced by agriculture’s re-imports. The agricultural purchases from the downstream sector of “Food and Beverages” induced the greatest environmental impact. To ensure sustainable agriculture, particularly in Pakistan, the agriculture sector’s direct and indirect environmental impacts should be reduced not only through better management practices and technology, but also by focusing on intermediate sectoral sources of direct and indirect environmental impacts.