bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in the Approval and Quality Management of Artificial Intelligence Medical Devices in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Lim Kyoungtaek , Heo Tae-Young , Yun Jaesuk
Published: January 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is being implemented in many areas of medicine, such as patient-customized diagnosis. Growth in the artificial intelligence medical device (AIMD) field is expected in the coming years. Major countries are currently establishing systems and policies to gain a leading position in the medical artificial intelligence market. The Republic of Korea has initiated the Act on Nurturing the Medical Devices Industry and Supporting Innovative Medical Devices for the development of AIMDs and is implementing it preemptively. As a result, the country has achieved an effective strategy for coping with the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase in the number of AIMD approvals (85 approved as of September 2021), and the creation of a document pertaining to internationally harmonized guidelines on AIMD-related terms and definitions. However, in order to develop and activate more AIMD products, it is necessary to improve post-market management such as product change and quality control in addition to approval. Here, we review the current regulatory status of AIMD in the Republic of Korea and what needs to be improved for AIMD to be more developed and activated.
Practical Approach to the Diagnosis of the Vulvo-Vaginal Stromal Tumors: An Overview
Authors: Angelico Giuseppe , Marletta Stefano , Broggi Giuseppe , Vigneri Paolo , Vecchio Giada Maria , Salvatorelli Lucia , Magro Gaetano
Published: January 2022

Background: The category of the “stromal tumors of the lower female genital tract” encompasses a wide spectrum of lesions with variable heterogeneity, which can be nosologically classified on the basis of their morphologic and immunohistochemical profiles as deep (aggressive) angiomyxoma (DAM), cellular angiofibroma (CAF), angiomyofibroblastoma (AMFB) or myofibroblastoma (MFB). Despite the differential diagnosis between these entities being usually straightforward, their increasingly recognized unusual morphological variants, along with the overlapping morphological and immunohistochemical features among these tumours, may raise serious differential diagnostic problems. Methods and Results: The data presented in the present paper have been retrieved from the entire published literature on the PubMed website about DAM, CAF, AFMB and MFB from 1984 to 2021. The selected articles are mainly represented by small-series, and, more rarely, single-case reports with unusual clinicopathologic features. The present review focuses on the diagnostic clues of the stromal tumours of the lower female genital tract to achieve a correct classification. The main clinicopathologic features of each single entity, emphasizing their differential diagnostic clues, are discussed and summarized in tables. Representative illustrations, including the unusual morphological variants, of each single tumour are also provided. Conclusion: Awareness by pathologists of the wide morphological and immunohistochemical spectrum exhibited by these tumours is crucial to achieve correct diagnoses and to avoid confusion with reactive conditions or other benign or malignant entities.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Drones in 2021
Authors:   Drones Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Joint Optimization of Data Freshness and Fidelity for Selection Combining-Based Transmissions
Authors: Chen Zhengchuan , Xu Mingjun , Wang Min , Jia Yunjian
Published: January 2022

Motivated by big data applications in the Internet of Things (IoT), abundant information arrives at the fusion center (FC) waiting to be processed. It is of great significance to ensure data freshness and fidelity simultaneously. We consider a wireless sensor network (WSN) where several sensor nodes observe one metric and then transmit the observations to the FC using a selection combining (SC) scheme. We adopt the age of information (AoI) and minimum mean square error (MMSE) metrics to measure the data freshness and fidelity, respectively. Explicit expressions of average AoI and MMSE are derived. After that, we jointly optimize the two metrics by adjusting the number of sensor nodes. A closed-form sub-optimal number of sensor nodes is proposed to achieve the best freshness and fidelity tradeoff with negligible errors. Numerical results show that using the proposed node number designs can effectively improve the freshness and fidelity of the transmitted data.
Free-Space QKD with Modulating Retroreflectors Based on the B92 Protocol
Authors: Zhu Minghao , Hu Min , Guo Banghong
Published: January 2022

Free-space quantum key distribution (QKD) has attracted considerable attention due to its lower channel loss and link flexibility. It allows two participants share theoretical unconditional secure keys, and can potentially be applied to air-to-ground quantum communication to establish a global quantum network. Free-space QKD using modulating retro-reflectors (MRR-QKD) significantly reduces the pointing requirement and simplifies the structure of the mobile terminal, therefore making it suitable for lightweight aircraft such as unmanned aerial vehicle and Cubesat, etc. Based on intensity modulation of two non-orthogonal states and the B92 protocol, we proposed a scheme to improve the previous work (Optics Express 2018, 26, 11331). Our scheme simplifies the optical structure and shows more robustness in equipment imperfection. The analysis and simulation show that the number of multiple quantum well modulators needed in our scheme decreases from eight to three with similar performance. Additionally, while the previous scheme cannot work due to low modulator extinction ratio or high optical misalignment, our scheme can still operate.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of European Burn Journal in 2021
Authors:   EBJ Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
A Flash Frequency Tuning Technique for SC-Based mm Wave VCOs
Authors: Parisi Alessandro , Cavarra Andrea , Finocchiaro Alessandro , Papotto Giuseppe , Palmisano Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

This paper presents a flash frequency tuning technique for switched-capacitor-based, voltage-controlled oscillators operating at mm wave frequencies. The proposed strategy exploits a capacitor array and a small varactor for coarse and fine tuning, respectively, which are simultaneously operated thanks to a flash A/D-based control circuit. This avoids additional delay in the frequency calibration, thus enabling very fast-frequency locking operation. The VCO was fabricated in a 28 nm FD-SOI CMOS technology and provides an oscillation frequency around 39 GHz with an overall tuning range of 3.3 GHz. The circuit dissipates 8.4 mW from a power supply as low as 0.7 V, while occupying a silicon area of 210 µm × 150 µm.
An Empirical Test of Low-Carbon and Sustainable Financing’s Spatial Spillover Effect
Authors: Sun Yu , Sun Huaping , Ma Zhiqiang , Li Mingxing , Wang Dan
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2019 are analyzed by the spatial measure model and the threshold regression model. The results show that the air quality level is positively correlated with green finance, but there is no spatial effect. The spatial effect of the three influencing factors, including the degree of openness, the level of infrastructure, and the level of education, is the crowding-out effect. At the same time, variables such as human resource level, air quality, and infrastructure construction level all have threshold effects in the relationship between green finance and economic development. The research conclusions suggested that local governments at all levels should formulate policies according to the actual situation to promote the development of provinces’ intensive, intelligent, and green development, and build a regionally-linked green finance development model, thereby promoting the improvement of green finance.
Thermal Simulation of Ice Cellars as a Basis for Food Security and Energy Sustainability of Isolated Indigenous Communities in the Arctic
Authors: Maslakov Alexey , Sotnikova Ksenia , Gribovskii Gleb , Evlanov Dmitry
Published: January 2022

Underground storage facilities dug in permafrost, or ice cellars, are a natural means of preserving food in conditions of transport isolation and total energy dependence on imported fuel. In the context of rapidly changing natural conditions, such storage facilities become unstable due to warming and degradation of permafrost. Monitoring and modeling the thermal regime of permafrost soils around ice cellars will help assess the impact of predicted climatic changes and the effectiveness of engineering solutions to sustain these facilities. In this paper, we made an attempt to simulate and predict the thermal regime of permafrost around an ice cellar, located in the community of Lorino, NE Russia. We found out that by 2050 the depth of seasonal thawing of the soil above the storage facility will increase from 1.12–1.74 m to 1.19–2.53 m, while the mean annual ground temperature will increase by only 0.5 °C, regardless of the climatic scenario. Results of the predictive simulation demonstrate significant but not critical changes of the thermal state of permafrost around the ice cellar. In fact, incorrect maintenance of the facility may have higher impact to its stability than climate changes. Some recommendations on preventive measures on increasing the ice cellar stability were provided.
Tap Water Quality and Habits of Its Use: A Comparative Analysis in Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Ober Józef , Karwot Janusz , Rusakov Serhii
Published: January 2022

Water, as one of the main media of human existence on earth, is the basis of the functioning of most societies. This article discusses various activities related to water resource management and analyzes the evaluation of selected quality parameters of tap water in Poland and Ukraine. The aim of the manuscript was to compare opinions on tap water quality and habits of its use in Poland and Ukraine, taking into account different seasons of the year as periods of use of supplied water. The hypothesis of the study was that tap water parameters are evaluated differently in Poland and Ukraine at different times of water supply. Due to the complexity of research aspects, a mixed-methods research procedure was used, in which a literature review was combined with a survey and statistical analysis. For the purpose of the survey, the authors’ questionnaire “Survey of customers’ opinions on selected parameters of tap water supplied in Poland and Ukraine” was created. The results of the research confirmed the hypothesis and allowed for the development a model for the evaluation of parameters of tap water supplied on the territory of Poland and Ukraine and to get to know the expectations of customers of these countries. The presented model provides practical indications that can be used to optimize water supply and meet customers’ expectations, including improvement of water quality parameters.
A Review of Recent Passive Heat Transfer Enhancement Methods
Authors: Mousavi Ajarostaghi Seyed Soheil , Zaboli Mohammad , Javadi Hossein , Badenes Borja , Urchueguia Javier F.
Published: January 2022

Improvements in miniaturization and boosting the thermal performance of energy conservation systems call for innovative techniques to enhance heat transfer. Heat transfer enhancement methods have attracted a great deal of attention in the industrial sector due to their ability to provide energy savings, encourage the proper use of energy sources, and increase the economic efficiency of thermal systems. These methods are categorized into active, passive, and compound techniques. This article reviews recent passive heat transfer enhancement techniques, since they are reliable, cost-effective, and they do not require any extra power to promote the energy conversion systems’ thermal efficiency when compared to the active methods. In the passive approaches, various components are applied to the heat transfer/working fluid flow path to improve the heat transfer rate. The passive heat transfer enhancement methods studied in this article include inserts (twisted tapes, conical strips, baffles, winglets), extended surfaces (fins), porous materials, coil/helical/spiral tubes, rough surfaces (corrugated/ribbed surfaces), and nanofluids (mono and hybrid nanofluids).
BESS Primary Frequency Control Strategies for the West Africa Power Pool
Authors: Abayateye Julius , Corigliano Silvia , Merlo Marco , Zimmerle Dan
Published: January 2022

In recent years, power systems have been moving from conventional power plants toward the integration of renewable energy sources (RES). This trend is taking shape in many developing economies, including in the West Africa Power Pool (WAPP). The integration of RES, however, stresses grid security and stability due to the variability and intermittency of the underlying renewable sources. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) have been identified as a possible solution to address the frequency control challenges in the WAPP Interconnected Transmission System (WAPPITS) in order to help to accommodate high levels of RES. This paper analyzes the application and effectiveness of BESS in providing primary frequency control reserves in the WAPPITS. The analyses are based on numerical simulations that were performed using an open-loop model based on historic frequency measurements from the WAPPITS. The simplified model provided a first-order analysis of the frequency control and state of charge (SOC) restoration logic for BESS installations. This study indicates that a droop-based control strategy that is able to react only to the symmetrical and fast frequency oscillations in the network could be appropriate for regulating BESS in the system. Moreover, it demonstrates that the deployment of BESS alone does not solve frequency control problems and a deep revision of the frequency control service is required, mainly involving traditional power plants.
Value-Added Pyrolysis of Waste Sourced High Molecular Weight Hydrocarbon Mixtures
Authors: Horváth Dominik , Tomasek Szabina , Miskolczi Norbert
Published: January 2022

In this study, Fischer-Tropsch paraffin mixture, heavy residue of waste polyethylene pyrolysis, shredded and crashed agricultural polyethylene waste and their combinations were pyrolysed both thermally and catalytically in a two-stage reactor system. During the experimental work, yields and compositions of pyrolysis products were studied as function of feedstock composition and catalyst placement. It was found that the average molecular weight of feedstocks and the presence of ZSM-5 catalyst also have significant effects on the product yields and the compositions. Feedstocks with high concentration of Fischer-Tropsch paraffin and real waste polyethylene resulted in deeper fragmentation in both thermal and thermo-catalytic pyrolysis. Due to the deeper fragmentation, they seemed to be suitable feedstocks for the production of C6–C9 and C10–C14 hydrocarbons. Meanwhile, for production of C15–C21 hydrocarbons, the use of a higher concentration of heavy residue of waste polyethylene pyrolysis in the feedstocks is recommended. From the point of view of liquid hydrocarbon and isomer production, the placement of the catalyst into the 1st reactor proved to be more advantageous. When the catalyst was placed into the 2nd reactor, the product formation shifted to the more volatiles, isomers took part in secondary cracking reactions and aromatics formed in higher concentrations.
Finite Control Set Model-Free Predictive Current Control of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Authors: Hu Mingmao , Yang Feng , Liu Yi , Wu Liang
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a finite control set model-free predictive current control (FCS-MFPCC) of a permanent magnet synchronous motor is presented. The control scheme addresses the problems of large current fluctuation and decline of the motor system performance during parameter perturbation for the traditional finite control set model predictive current control (FCS-MPCC). Firstly, the mathematical model of the motor is analyzed and derived during parameter perturbation, and a new hyperlocal model of the motor is established based on this mathematical model. Secondly, a finite control set model-free predictive current controller is designed based on the new hyperlocal model, and a current error correction factor is introduced to correct the prediction error. Meanwhile, the stability of the observer is demonstrated via the Lyapunov theory. The simulation results show that the proposed control strategy reduces current fluctuation compared with the FCS-MPCC strategy, and the system is robust during parameter perturbation.
Effects of Scion Variety on the Phosphorus Efficiency of Grafted Camellia oleifera Seedlings
Authors: Zeng Jin , Liu Juan , Lian Lunan , Xu Aowen , Guo Xiaomin , Zhang Ling , Zhang Wenyuan , Hu Dongnan
Published: January 2022

Grafting provides a way to improve tolerance to low phosphorus (P) stress for plants, and has been extensively applied in commercial cultivars grafted onto appropriate rootstocks. However, little literature is available concerning the scion-mediated effect on P efficiency in grafted plants. In this study, three different Camellia oleifera Abel. scion cultivars (G8, G83-1, and W2) were grafted onto the same rootstock (W2) under controls (0.5 mM) and low-P (0 mM) availability for eight months. The results showed that the scions significantly affected root-to-shoot weight ratios, the root morphology with a diameter larger than 1 mm, P accumulation, and the P utilization efficiency (PUE) of the root. A higher increase in the root-to-shoot weight ratio under the low-P supply was observed in the G83-1/W2 (26.15%) than in the G8/W2 (0%) and the W2/W2 (5.32%). Root PUE of the scion G8, G83-1, and W2 was improved by up to 113.73%, 45.46%, and 20.97% under the low-P supply. Moreover, G8/W2 exhibited higher shoot P accumulation and the highest root PUE under the low-P supply, indicating a high capability to tolerate P deficiency by maximizing the cost-effectiveness of P remobilization to photosynthetic organs. This suggested the vigorous variety of G8 could be a promising scion to improve grafted C. oleifera tolerance to low-P stress. Our results would have important implications for exploration and identification of a superior scion variety to enhance the ability of resistance concerning P deficiency stress in C. oleifera.
Off-Flavors in Aquacultured Fish: Origins and Implications for Consumers
Authors: Moretto Jéssica A. , Freitas Paloma N. N. , Souza Juliana P. , Oliveira Thalita M. , Brites Isabella , Pinto Ernani
Published: January 2022

Off-flavors in fish and water are considered a worldwide problem. Several factors, such as the presence of phosphorus, micronutrients, and organic matter, contribute to phytoplankton proliferation and the production of off-flavors. Geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol are the most common off-flavors that confer the smell of earth or mold to water and fish. These metabolites are not considered toxic, but they can be easily transferred from water to living organisms and accumulate in the biota, up the trophic levels and to consumers, including fish species. Numerous processes have been studied to eliminate or reduce the presence of off-flavors in recirculating aquaculture systems. Managing off-flavors must be eco-friendly and consumer-friendly. Strategies against off-flavors must be efficient and low-cost. However, these solutions may be different for each fish production system. We review herein the main compounds produced by cyanobacteria that can accumulate in fish used in aquaculture that can affect the quality of food, as well as production costs and consumer preference.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Fuels in 2021
Authors:   Fuels Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Drug Delivery Challenges and Current Progress in Nanocarrier-Based Ocular Therapeutic System
Authors: Akhter Md Habban , Ahmad Irfan , Alshahrani Mohammad Y. , Al-Harbi Alhanouf I. , Khalilullah Habibullah , Afzal Obaid , Altamimi Abdulmalik S. A. , Najib Ullah Shehla Nasar Mir , Ojha Abhijeet , Karim Shahid
Published: January 2022

Drug instillation via a topical route is preferred since it is desirable and convenient due to the noninvasive and easy drug access to different segments of the eye for the treatment of ocular ailments. The low dose, rapid onset of action, low or no toxicity to the local tissues, and constrained systemic outreach are more prevalent in this route. The majority of ophthalmic preparations in the market are available as conventional eye drops, which rendered <5% of a drug instilled in the eye. The poor drug availability in ocular tissue may be attributed to the physiological barriers associated with the cornea, conjunctiva, lachrymal drainage, tear turnover, blood–retinal barrier, enzymatic drug degradation, and reflex action, thus impeding deeper drug penetration in the ocular cavity, including the posterior segment. The static barriers in the eye are composed of the sclera, cornea, retina, and blood–retinal barrier, whereas the dynamic barriers, referred to as the conjunctival and choroidal blood flow, tear dilution, and lymphatic clearance, critically impact the bioavailability of drugs. To circumvent such barriers, the rational design of the ocular therapeutic system indeed required enriching the drug holding time and the deeper permeation of the drug, which overall improve the bioavailability of the drug in the ocular tissue. This review provides a brief insight into the structural components of the eye as well as the therapeutic challenges and current developments in the arena of the ocular therapeutic system, based on novel drug delivery systems such as nanomicelles, nanoparticles (NPs), nanosuspensions, liposomes, in situ gel, dendrimers, contact lenses, implants, and microneedles. These nanotechnology platforms generously evolved to overwhelm the troubles associated with the physiological barriers in the ocular route. The controlled-drug-formulation-based strategic approach has considerable potential to enrich drug concentration in a specific area of the eye.
Catalytic Reduction of Environmental Pollutants with Biopolymer Hydrogel Cross-Linked Gelatin Conjugated Tin-Doped Gadolinium Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Marwani Hadi M. , Ahmad Shahid , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: January 2022

In the present study, a biopolymer nanocomposite hydrogel based on gelatin and tin-doped gadolinium oxide (Sn-Gd2O3@GH) was prepared for the efficient reduction of water pollutants. The method of Sn-Gd2O3@GH preparation consisted of two steps. A Sn-Gd2O3 nanomaterial was synthesized by a hydrothermal method and mixed with a hot aqueous solution (T > 60 °C) of gelatin polymer, followed by cross-linking. Due to the presence of abundant functional groups on the skeleton of gelatin, such as carboxylic acid (–COOH) and hydroxyl (–OH), it was easily cross-linked with formaldehyde. The structure, morphology, and composition of Sn-Gd2O3@GH were further characterized by the FESEM, XRD, EDX, and FTIR techniques. The FESEM images located the distribution of the Sn-Gd2O3 nanomaterial in a GH matrix of 30.06 nm. The XRD patterns confirmed the cubic crystalline structure of Gd2O3 in a nanocomposite hydrogel, while EDS elucidated the elemental composition of pure Sn-Gd2O3 powder and cross-linked the Sn-Gd2O3@GH samples. The synthesized Sn-Gd2O3@GH nanocomposite was used for the removal of different azo dyes and nitrophenols (NPs). It exhibited an efficient catalytic reduction of Congo red (CR) with a reaction rate of 9.15 × 10−1 min−1 with a strong NaBH4-reducing agent. Moreover, the Sn-Gd2O3@GH could be easily recovered by discharging the reduced (colourless) dye, and it could be reused for a fresh cycle.
Highly Flexibility, Powder Self-Healing, and Recyclable Natural Polymer Hydrogels
Authors: Miao Haiyue , Hao Weiju , Liu Hongtao , Liu Yiyang , Fu Xiaobin , Huang Hailong , Ge Min , Qian Yuan
Published: January 2022

Based on the good self-healing ability to repair mechanical damage, self-healing hydrogels have aroused great interest and been extensively applied as functional materials. However, when partial failure of hydrogels caused by breaking or dryness occurs, leading to recycling problems, self-healing hydrogels cannot solve the mentioned defects and have to be abandoned. In this work, a novel recyclable and self-healing natural polymer hydrogel (Chitosan/polymethylacrylic acid-: CMA) was prepared. The CMA hydrogel not only exhibited controlled mechanical properties from 26 kPa to 125 kPa with tensile strain from 1357% to 3012%, but also had good water retaining property, stability and fast self-healing properties in 1 min. More importantly, the CMA hydrogel displayed attractive powder self-healing performance. After drying–powdering treatment, the mentioned abandoned hydrogels could easily rebuild their frame structure to recover their original state and performance in 1 min only by adding a small amount of water, which could significantly prolong their service life. These advantages guarantee the hydrogel can effectively defend against reversible mechanical damage, water loss and partial hydrogel failure, suggesting great potential applications as a recyclable functional hydrogel for biomaterials and electronic materials.
The Role of TRPM4 Gene Mutations in Causing Familial Progressive Cardiac Conduction Disease: A Further Contribution
Authors: Palladino Alberto , Papa Andrea Antonio , Petillo Roberta , Scutifero Marianna , Morra Salvatore , Passamano Luigia , Nigro Vincenzo , Politano Luisa
Published: January 2022

Progressive cardiac conduction disease (PCCD) is a relatively common condition in young and elderly populations, related to rare mutations in several genes, including SCN5A, SCN1B, LMNA and GJA5, TRPM4. Familial cases have also been reported. We describe a family with a large number of individuals necessitating pacemaker implantation, likely due to varying degrees of PCCD. The proband is a 47-year-old-patient, whose younger brother died at 25 years of unexplained sudden cardiac death. Three paternal uncles needed a pacemaker (PM) implantation between 40 and 65 years for unspecified causes. At the age of 42, he was implanted with a PM for two episodes of syncope and the presence of complete atrioventricular block (AVB). NGS analysis revealed the missense variation c. 2351G>A, p.Gly844Asp in the exon 17 of the TRPM4 gene. This gene encodes the TRPM4 channel, a calcium-activated nonselective cation channel of the transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM) ion channel family. Variations in TRPM4 have been shown to cause an increase in cell surface current density, which results in a gain of gene function. Our report broadens and supports the causative role of TRPM4 gene mutations in PCCD. Genetic screening and identification of the causal mutation are critical for risk stratification and family counselling.
Clinical and Molecular Diagnosis of Osteocraniostenosis in Fetuses and Newborns: Prenatal Ultrasound, Clinical, Radiological and Pathological Features
Authors: Rosato Simonetta , Unger Sheila , Campos-Xavier Belinda , Caraffi Stefano Giuseppe , Beltrami Laura , Pollazzon Marzia , Ivanovski Ivan , Castori Marco , Bonasoni Maria Paola , Comitini Giuseppina , Nikkels Peter G. J. , Lindstrom Kristin , Umandap Christine , Superti-Furga Andrea , Garavelli Livia
Published: January 2022

Osteocraniostenosis (OCS, OMIM #602361) is a severe, usually lethal condition characterized by gracile bones with thin diaphyses, a cloverleaf-shaped skull and splenic hypo/aplasia. The condition is caused by heterozygous mutations in the FAM111A gene and is allelic to the non-lethal, dominant disorder Kenny-Caffey syndrome (KCS, OMIM #127000). Here we report two new cases of OCS, including one with a detailed pathological examination. We review the main diagnostic signs of OCS both before and after birth based on our observations and on the literature. We then review the current knowledge on the mutational spectrum of FAM111A associated with either OCS or KCS, including three novel variants, both from one of the OCS fetuses described here, and from further cases diagnosed at our centers. This report refines the previous knowledge on OCS and expands the mutational spectrum that results in either OCS or KCS.
Snapshot of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Phylogenetics from an Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh Bordering China
Authors: Mudliar Shiv kumar Rashmi , Kulsum Umay , Rufai Syed Beenish , Umpo Mika , Nyori Moi , Singh Sarman
Published: January 2022

Uncontrolled transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis, MTB) drug resistant strains is a challenge to control efforts of the global tuberculosis program. Due to increasing multi-drug resistant (MDR) cases in Arunachal Pradesh, a northeastern state of India, the tracking and tracing of these resistant MTB strains is crucial for infection control and spread of drug resistance. This study aims to correlate the phenotypic DST, genomic DST (gDST) and phylogenetic analysis of MDR-MTB strains in the region. Of the total 200 samples 22 (11%) patients suspected of MDR-TB and 160 (80%) previously treated MDR-TB cases, 125 (62.5%) were identified as MTB. MGIT-960 SIRE DST detected 71/125 (56.8%) isolates as MDR/RR-MTB of which 22 (30.9%) were detected resistant to second-line drugs. Whole-genome sequencing of 65 isolates and their gDST found Ser315Thr mutation in katG (35/45; 77.8%) and Ser531Leu mutation in rpoB (21/41; 51.2%) associated with drug resistance. SNP barcoding categorized the dataset with Lineage2 (41; 63.1%) being predominant followed by Lineage3 (10; 15.4%), Lineage1 (8; 12.3%) and Lineage4 (6; 9.2%) respectively. Phylogenetic assignment by cgMLST gave insights of two Beijing sub-lineages viz; 2.2.1 (SNP difference < 19) and 2.2.1.2 (SNP difference < 9) associated with recent ongoing transmission in Arunachal Pradesh. This study provides insights in identifying two virulent Beijing sub-lineages (sub-lineage 2.2.1 and 2.2.1.2) with ongoing transmission of TB drug resistance in Arunachal Pradesh.
Changes in Morpho-Anatomical and Eco-Physiological Responses of Viburnum tinus L. var lucidum as Modulated by Sodium Chloride and Calcium Chloride Salinization
Authors: De Micco Veronica , Arena Carmen , Amitrano Chiara , Rouphael Youssef , De Pascale Stefania , Cirillo Chiara
Published: January 2022

Salinity in water and soil is among the major constraints to the cultivation of ornamental crops since it can affect their growth and aesthetic value. A greenhouse experiment was carried out to assess whether the application of two different salts (80 mM NaCl or 53.3 mM CaCl2, with a final ionic concentration of 160 mM) could differently modulate the anatomical and physiological acclimation of an important ornamental species such as Viburnum tinus L. var. lucidum. Eco-physiological analyses (e.g., leaf gas exchange and chlorophyll a fluorescence emission) were performed and leaves were subjected to light microscopy analysis to quantify functional anatomical traits through digital image analysis. Results showed that the two iso-osmotic solutions induced different structure-mediated physiological alterations in V. tinus plants. Photosynthesis was lowered by CaCl2 treatments (−58%) more than by NaCl (−37%), also due to the occurrence of photodamage apart from stomatal limitations. Neither Na+ nor Cl− exhibited toxic effects in leaf lamina structure which was reflected in the limited reduction in dry matter accumulation. Overall data were interpreted focusing on the coordination among leaf structural and functional traits suggesting that the fine control of functional anatomical traits contributes to physiological acclimation to both stressful conditions.
Optimization of an In Vitro Embryo Rescue Protocol for Breeding Seedless Table Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) in Italy
Authors: Giancaspro Angelica , Mazzeo Andrea , Carlomagno Antonio , Gadaleta Agata , Somma Stefano , Ferrara Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

Conventional crossing of stenospermocarpic grapes for the obtainment of seedless cultivars presents some technical constraints causing embryo abortion in the early berry developmental stages. Embryo rescue technique partially overcomes these limitations, but the obtainment of viable plantlets relies on the optimization of several genetic and methodological issues. This work aimed to regenerate viable plants from immature ovules of stenospermocarpic table grape hybrids by applying a three-step in vitro culture protocol consisting of embryo development, embryo germination-rooting, and plantlet formation. The influence of parental genotypes (six “seedless × seedless” crosses), ovule sampling time (30, 40, 50 days after pollination (DAP)), and extent of embryo germination induction (4, 6, 8 weeks) was assessed on ovule fertilization, embryo development and germination, rooting, and plantlet formation to establish the best rescue time for each combination hybrid. Our optimized protocol included immature ovule isolation for 40 DAP and embryo germination induction for 8 weeks. As for genotypes, the most efficient embryo germination was recovered from hybrids of Thompson, Superior, and Regal cultivars, whereas the highest percentage of viable plants was derived from 50-DAP ovules of Luisa × Thompson progeny. Such an optimized protocol could be useful to maximize the efficiency of future breeding programs for grape seedlessness.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Infectious Disease Reports in 2021
Authors:   Infectious Disease Reports Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
One-Stage Virtual Plan of a Complex Orthodontic/Prosthetic Dental Rehabilitation
Authors: Nota Alessandro , Chegodaeva Alisa Dmitrievna , Ryakhovsky Alexander Nikolaevich , Vykhodtseva Maria Alexandrovna , Pittari Laura , Tecco Simona
Published: January 2022

In complex dental treatments, a preliminary virtual plan (VP) can minimise the probability of errors and increase the predictability of the achieved result. Digital technologies and artificial intelligence open more opportunities for such planning, as they can be applied at the early stages of clinical examination to develop a simultaneous VP of all stages of treatment. The present clinical case describes a one-stage entire VP combining all the stages of treatment: gnathological, orthodontic, and prosthetic rehabilitation, until the final result. This approach avoids the accumulation errors associated with multistage VP, in which one stage of planning follows the end of a previous stage. One-step VP also allows demonstrating to the patients the expected results of the restoration, which increases their motivation to initiate the treatment.
Social Skills Group Training for Students with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in Senior High School—A Qualitative Multi-Perspective Study of Social Validity
Authors: Leifler Emma , Coco Christina , Fridell Anna , Borg Anna , Bölte Sven
Published: January 2022

Including students with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) in regular classrooms has become a law-enforced common practice in many high- and middle-income countries. Still, without appropriate actions supporting the implementation of inclusive pedagogical practice, students with NDDs remain at increased risk for absenteeism, bullying and underachievement. There is limited knowledge on the feasibility of social skills group training (SSGT) in naturalistic settings. Using a qualitative approach, the objective of this study was to explore the lived experiences of (i) students diagnosed with autism or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and those showing subclinical social difficulties receiving either SSGT or active social control activities in a regular senior high school setting, (ii) teachers providing SSGT or the active control activity and (iii) school leaders facilitating the implementation of these actions. Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, comparison between real life versus digital administration of SSGT was also examined. Within a randomized controlled pilot trial of the school-tailored SSGT SKOLKONTAKT®, the primary perspectives of 20 students, teachers and school leaders on SSGT or the social control activities were explored. All groups perceived SSGT to enhance school attendance and academic achievement of students, as well as teacher inclusion skills and the social school climate. Findings indicate that SSGT is largely feasible and socially valid, and broader implementation of SSGT in school settings appears meaningful.
Gender-Oriented Mental Health Prevention: A Reappraisal
Authors: Comacchio Carla , Antolini Giulia , Ruggeri Mirella , Colizzi Marco
Published: January 2022

Many studies have investigated the impact of gender on mental health, but only a few have addressed gender differences in mental health risk and prevention. We conducted a narrative review to assess the current state of knowledge on gender-specific mental health preventive interventions, along with an analysis of gender-based risk factors and available screening strategies. Out of 1598 articles screened using a comprehensive electronic search of the PubMed, Web-of-Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases, 53 were included for review. Among risk factors for mental health problems, there are individual, familiar, social, and healthcare factors. Individual factors include childhood adversities, which show gender differences in distribution rates. However, current childhood abuse prevention programs are not gender-specific. Familiar factors for mental health problems include maternity issues and intimate partner violence, and for both, some gender-specific preventive interventions are available. Social risk factors for mental health problems are related to education, employment, discrimination, and relationships. They all display gender differences, but these differences are rarely taken into account in mental health prevention programs. Lastly, despite gender differences in mental health service use being widely known, mental health services appear to be slow in developing strategies that guarantee equal access to care for all individuals.
Forecasting COVID-19 Case Trends Using SARIMA Models during the Third Wave of COVID-19 in Malaysia
Authors: Tan Cia Vei , Singh Sarbhan , Lai Chee Herng , Zamri Ahmed Syahmi Syafiq Md , Dass Sarat Chandra , Aris Tahir Bin , Ibrahim Hishamshah Mohd , Gill Balvinder Singh
Published: January 2022

With many countries experiencing a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, it is important to forecast disease trends to enable effective planning and implementation of control measures. This study aims to develop Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) models using 593 data points and smoothened case and covariate time-series data to generate a 28-day forecast of COVID-19 case trends during the third wave in Malaysia. SARIMA models were developed using COVID-19 case data sourced from the Ministry of Health Malaysia’s official website. Model training and validation was conducted from 22 January 2020 to 5 September 2021 using daily COVID-19 case data. The SARIMA model with the lowest root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute percentage error (MAE) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) was selected to generate forecasts from 6 September to 3 October 2021. The best SARIMA model with a RMSE = 73.374, MAE = 39.716 and BIC = 8.656 showed a downward trend of COVID-19 cases during the forecast period, wherein the observed daily cases were within the forecast range. The majority (89%) of the difference between the forecasted and observed values was well within a deviation range of 25%. Based on this work, we conclude that SARIMA models developed in this paper using 593 data points and smoothened data and sensitive covariates can generate accurate forecast of COVID-19 case trends.
The Life Histories of Intermediate Hosts and Parasites of Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni in the White Nile River, Sudan
Authors: Ismail Hassan Ahmed Hassan Ahmed , Ahmed Abed el Aziz Abed el Rahim Mohamed , Cha Seungman , Jin Yan
Published: January 2022

Background: The epidemiology of schistosomiasis transmission varies depending on the circumstances of the surrounding water bodies and human behaviors. We aimed to explore cercarial emergence patterns from snails that are naturally affected by human schistosomiasis and non-human trematodes. In addition, this study aimed to explore how schistosomiasis infection affects snail survival, reproduction, and growth. Methods: We measured the survival rate, fecundity, and size of Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails and the cercarial rhythmicity of S. haematobium and S. mansoni. The number of egg masses, eggs per egg mass, and snail deaths were counted for 7 weeks. The survival rate and cumulative hazard were assessed for infected and non-infected snails. Results: S. haematobium and S. mansoni cercariae peaked at 9:00–11:00 a.m. Infection significantly reduced the survival rate of B. pfeifferi, which was 35% and 51% for infected and non-infected snails, respectively (p = 0.02), at 7 weeks after infection. The hazard ratio of death for infected snails compared to non-infected snails was 1.65 (95% confidence interval: 1.35–1.99; p = 0.01). Conclusions: An understanding of the dynamics of schistosomiasis transmission will be helpful for formulating schistosomiasis control and elimination strategies. Cercarial rhythmicity can be reflected in health education, and the reproduction and survival rate of infected snails can be used as parameters for developing disease modeling.
Alcohol Consumption, Bone Mineral Density, and Risk of Osteoporotic Fractures: A Dose–Response Meta-Analysis
Authors: Godos Justyna , Giampieri Francesca , Chisari Emanuele , Micek Agnieszka , Paladino Nadia , Forbes-Hernández Tamara Y. , Quiles José L. , Battino Maurizio , La Vignera Sandro , Musumeci Giuseppe , Grosso Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

Excess alcohol consumption is known to be detrimental to human health. However, the role of light-to-moderate alcohol intake is under investigation for potential certain health benefits—mostly related to the cardiovascular system. Nevertheless, there is no univocal agreement on this matter, and research is still ongoing to clarify whether there might be other potential outcomes affected by alcohol intake. In this regard, there is evidence that excess alcohol intake may negatively influence the risk of osteoporotic fractures. However, there is no comprehensive evidence of literature assessing the role of alcohol consumption in bone mineral density (BMD) and the risk of osteoporotic fractures. Thus, the aim of this study was to quantitatively assess the dose–response relationship between alcohol intake and BMD and risk of osteoporotic fractures. The Embase and MEDLINE electronic databases were searched from their inception to December 2021 for articles providing a quantifiable measurement of alcohol consumption for at least three categories and (1) a measurement of BMD (and dispersion as continuous variables) in some area of the body or (2) risk of osteoporotic fracture provided as relative risk (RR) or hazard ratio (HR), with a 95% confidence interval (CI) as the measure of the association of each category with alcohol intake. A total of 11 studies including 46,916 individuals with BMD assessment and 8 studies including 240,871 individuals with risk of fracture analysis were included. Compared to non-drinkers, consumption of up to two standard drinks of alcohol per day was correlated with higher lumbar and femur neck BMD values, while up to one standard drink of alcohol was correlated with higher hip BMD compared to no alcohol consumption. Higher risk of hip fractures was found starting from three standard drinks of alcohol per day (RR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.04; 1.69 for three alcoholic drinks/d, and RR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.23; 2.05 for four alcoholic drinks/d) compared to no alcohol consumption, with no evidence of heterogeneity. Concerning the risk of any osteoporotic fractures, the risk steadily increased with higher intake of alcohol, although never reaching statistical significance. In conclusion, there is consistent evidence that increased alcohol consumption is associated with higher risk of osteoporotic hip fracture; however, the role of alcohol at lower doses is uncertain, as BMD was even higher in light drinkers compared to abstainers.
Variation in Seeking Care for Cardiovascular Disease and Ambulance Utilization among Migrants in Australia: Time, Ethnicity, and Delay (TED) Study III
Authors: Wechkunanukul Kannikar Hannah , Ullah Shahid , Beilby Justin
Published: January 2022

Insight into differences in seeking medical care for chest pain among migrant populations is limited. This study aimed to determine ethnic differences in seeking care behaviors and using ambulances among migrants compared to an Australian-born group. A total of 607 patients presenting with chest pain to a tertiary hospital between 1 July 2012 and 30 June 2014 were randomly selected. Data from the emergency department dataset and medical record reviews were collected and linked for analysis. The migrant group was stratified into nine ethnic groups for analysis based on the Australian Standard Classification of Cultural and Ethnic Groups. The overall median prehospital delay time was 3.7 (1.5, 10.7) h, which ranged from 2.5 (1.0, 10.7) (Southern and Eastern European group) to 6.0 (2.3, 20.6) (Sub-Saharan African group). The median decision time was 2.0 (0.8, 7.9) h, which ranged from 1.5 (Australian-born group) to 4.5 h (Sub-Saharan African group). Five ethnic groups had significantly longer decision times compared to the Australian-born group. Decision time accounted for 58.4% of pre-hospital delay time. Migrant patients were 60% less likely to seek care for chest pain within one hour (odds ratio 0.40, (0.23–0.68), p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in ambulance utilization between migrant and Australian-born groups. In conclusion, ethnic differences in seeking care for chest pain do exist, and ethnicity plays a vital role in a longer delay in seeking care. To reduce the delays and improve patient outcomes, appropriate health campaigns focusing on ethnic differences among migrant populations and normalizing cultural competency into practice are recommended.
The Bioaccumulation and Health Risk Assessment of Metals among Two Most Consumed Species of Angling Fish (Cyprinus carpio and Pseudohemiculter dispar) in Liuzhou (China): Winter Should Be Treated as a Suitable Season for Fish Angling
Authors: Hao Yupei , Miao Xiongyi , Song Mian , Zhang Hucai
Published: January 2022

Wild fish caught by anglers were validated to be commonly polluted by metals, but their contamination status could be varied with changing seasons. To determine the seasonal variation in metal pollution and health risks in these fish, this study took Liuzhou City as an example to investigate the concentrations of eight metals in two dominant angling fishes (Cyprinus carpio and Pseudohemiculter dispar) collected, respectively, in winter and summer. The obtained results suggested the mean concentrations of metals in fish are overall lower in winter. Only Cr, Zn, and Cd in some fish were beyond the thresholds in summer. The significant correlations between fish length and weight and most metals suggested the biological dilution effect could exert its influence in winter. The similar distribution of metals in winter suggested that metal bioaccumulation should be manipulated by living habitats, while the inconsistent distribution of metals in summer may be related to the variation in feeding behavior. The metal pollution index (Pi) values were all below 0.2 in winter, which suggested no metal contamination in fish, but most fish were found to be mostly contaminated by Cr and Cd in summer, which was confirmed by their Pi > 0.2. The fish could be consumed freely in winter due to the total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) below 1, while the consumption of fish was not entirely safe in summer, particularly for children, due to TTHQ values that were generally beyond 1. Given the higher weekly recommended consumption of fish in winter, winter should be treated as a suitable season for fish angling.