bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Evaluation of BD FACSPrestoTM Near-Patient CD4 Counter for Monitoring Antiretroviral Therapy in HIV-Infected Individuals in Primary Healthcare Clinics in Thailand
Authors: Sukapirom Kasama , Matchua Somrat , Thepthai Charin , Srimark Narinee , Khowawisetsut Ladawan , Pattanapanyasat Kovit
Published: February 2022

HIV viral load is more reliable tool for monitoring treatment throughout the course of HIV/AIDS, but the test may be expensive in resource-limited settings. Therefore, enumeration of CD4 T-lymphocyte count remains important in these settings. This study evaluated the performance of BDFACSPresto, a near-patient CD4 counter planned to be used in primary healthcare clinics in Thailand. Results of percent, absolute CD4 count and hemoglobin (Hb) on the FACSPresto were compared with the TriTEST/TruCOUNT/BDFACSCalibur method and a Sysmex hematology analyzer. Phase I of the study was performed in an ISO15189 laboratory. Both percentage and absolute values showed Passing–Bablok slopes within 0.98–1.06 and 0.97–1.13, mean Bland–Altman biases of +1.2% and +20.5 cells/µL, respectively. In phase II, venous and some capillary blood samples were analyzed in four primary healthcare clinics. The results showed good correlation between capillary and venous blood. For venous blood samples, regression lines showed slopes of 1.01–1.05 and 1.01–1.07 for all percentage and absolute values. The overall mean biases were +0.9% and +17.0 cells/µL. For Hb, Passing–Bablok regression result gave slope within 1.01–1.07 and mean bias of −0.06 g/dL. Thus, CD4 enumeration in blood by the FACSPresto is reliable and can be performed to an identical standard at primary healthcare clinics.
Acute Retinal Necrosis: Signs, Treatment, Complications and Outcome
Authors: Mayer Christian S. , Blobner Katharina , Storr Julia , Baur Isabella D. , Khoramnia Ramin
Published: February 2022

Background: The Acute Retinal Necrosis (ARN) is an inflammatory, rapidly progressive necrotizing retinitis and vasculitis, most frequently caused by Varicella-Zoster-Virus (VZV), followed by Herpes-Simplex-Virus (HSV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr-Virus (EBV). The diagnosis is based on clinical signs that were first defined by the American Uveitis Society in 1994 that include one or more foci of retinal necrosis, rapid progression without treatment, circumferential progression, occlusive vasculopathy, and inflammatory signs of the vitreous and anterior chamber Methods: In this retrospective analysis, we included 16 eyes of 10 patients, six patients with simultaneous or delayed bilateral affection, treated for ARN. Status of disease, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA, decimal), intraocular pressure (IOP), pathogen proof, therapy, and complications were evaluated at diagnosis and 3 months later. Results: In nine patients, the pathogen was identified (six VZV, two HSV, one CMV, one EBV). All patients were treated with systemic and intravitreal virustatic agents. In nine eyes with a CDVA of 0.2 ± 0.2 at hospital admission, vitrectomy was performed, and in seven eyes with CDVA of 0.5 ± 0.3, no vitrectomy was performed (p = 0.04). After 3 months, CDVA of the vitrectomized eyes decreased to 0.1 ± 0.1 vs. 0.4 ± 0.3 (p = 0.01) without vitrectomy. CDVA of fellow eyes affected was 0.6 ± 0.2 at initial presentation vs. 0.2 ± 0.2 for eyes affected first and 0.4 ± 0.3 vs. 0.1 ± 0.1 after 3 months. We observed several complications including retinal detachment, recurrence of the disease, and bulbar hypotony. Conclusion: For fellows eyes affected, diagnosis could be confirmed earlier, leading to a more successful treatment. The success of vitrectomy is difficult to evaluate because vitrectomy is most frequently performed just in the advanced stages of the disease. Early treatment with an appropriate approach is essential to avoid loss of vision.
Retrospective Review of Missed Cancer Detection and Its Mammography Findings with Artificial-Intelligence-Based, Computer-Aided Diagnosis
Authors: Park Ga Eun , Kang Bong Joo , Kim Sung Hun , Lee Jeongmin
Published: February 2022

To investigate whether artificial-intelligence-based, computer-aided diagnosis (AI-CAD) could facilitate the detection of missed cancer on digital mammography, a total of 204 women diagnosed with breast cancer with diagnostic (present) and prior mammograms between 2018 and 2020 were included in this study. Two breast radiologists reviewed the mammographic features and classified them into true negative, minimal sign or missed cancer. They analyzed the AI-CAD results with an abnormality score and assessed whether the AI-CAD correctly localized the known cancer sites. Of the 204 cases, 137 were classified as true negative, 33 as minimal signs, and 34 as missed cancer. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of AI-CAD were 84.7%, 91.5% and 86.3% on diagnostic mammogram and 67.2%, 91.2% and 83.38% on prior mammogram, respectively. The AI-CAD correctly localized 27 cases from 34 missed cancers on prior mammograms. The findings in the preceding mammography of AI-CAD-detected missed cancer were common in the order of calcifications, focal asymmetry and asymmetry. Asymmetry was the most common finding among the seven cases, which could not be detected by AI-CAD in the missed cases (5/7). The assistance of AI-CAD can be helpful in the early detection of breast cancer in mammography screenings.
The COVID-19 Era—Influencers of Uneven Sector Performance: A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Singh Vikkram , Shirazi Homayoun , Turetken Jessica
Published: February 2022

The study estimates the impact of COVID-19 on the labour market outcomes of major industrial sectors in Toronto, the largest urban centre in Canada. Using various economic data, we classify the sectors as distressed, stable, and those requiring ongoing monitoring. Furthermore, we estimate the expected impact of the pandemic shock using the Impulse Response Function (IRF) method. The results show an uneven impact of the pandemic with adverse outcomes for low-paying front-facing sectors, such as accommodation & food services and manufacturing. The post-pandemic projections show lingering negative implications for various sectors. The insights are helpful for policy recommendations, such as targeted responses to address the declines and structural changes in these sectors because of increasing technology adoption and the resulting labour market challenges.
Learnable Wavelet Scattering Networks: Applications to Fault Diagnosis of Analog Circuits and Rotating Machinery
Authors: Khemani Varun , Azarian Michael H. , Pecht Michael G.
Published: February 2022

Analog circuits are a critical part of industrial electronics and systems. Estimates in the literature show that, even though analog circuits comprise less than 20% of all circuits, they are responsible for more than 80% of faults. Hence, analog circuit fault diagnosis and isolation can be a valuable means of ensuring the reliability of circuits. This paper introduces a novel technique of learning time–frequency representations, using learnable wavelet scattering networks, for the fault diagnosis of circuits and rotating machinery. Wavelet scattering networks, which are fixed time–frequency representations based on existing wavelets, are modified to be learnable so that they can learn features that are optimal for fault diagnosis. The learnable wavelet scattering networks are developed using the genetic algorithm-based optimization of second-generation wavelet transform operators. The simulation and experimental results for the diagnosis of analog circuit faults demonstrates that the developed diagnosis scheme achieves greater fault diagnosis accuracy than other methods in the literature, even while considering a larger number of fault classes. The performance of the diagnosis scheme on benchmark datasets of bearing faults and gear faults shows that the developed method generalizes well to fault diagnosis in multiple domains and has good transfer learning performance, too.
Proportional Hysteresis Band Control for DC Voltage Stability of Three-Phase Single-Stage PV Systems
Authors: Khalkhali Hassan , Oshnoei Arman , Anvari-Moghaddam Amjad
Published: February 2022

Ensuring the stability of DC-link voltage in grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems plays a critical role in their reliable and continuous operation. DC voltage fluctuation and, in the worst case, DC voltage collapse will dramatically hamper real and reactive power delivery to the grid. This is more the case in single-stage inverters with no DC-DC boost stage, and the DC voltage has a varying nature. This paper proposes a new control approach for ensuring DC-link voltage stability in single-stage PV systems. The proposed control strategy is based on an adaptive hysteresis band controller (HBC), supplementing the conventional control blocks. This strategy offers the capability to prevent fast discharge of DC-link capacitor and keeps it within acceptable limits by quickly modifying phase shift applied to inverter PWM through quick calculations. Results show that the approach greatly improves PV system performance, in various operating modes. The proposed control scheme is implemented in the real-time simulator, OPAL-RT, OP5600 to verify its applicability and effectiveness in real time.
Secondary Education and COVID-19
Authors: Siakalli Michailina , Mousoulidou Marilena , Christodoulou Andri , Savvidou Angela , Kouppa Kyriaki
Published: February 2022

Secondary education is the second stage of formal education and traditionally begins after primary school, usually about age 11 to 13. The COVID-19 pandemic caused immeasurable changes to the educational system which inevitably greatly impacted secondary education. The current entry describes the changes in secondary education imposed by the pandemic and explores the accompanying challenges.
Monitoring and Assessment of Environmental Quality in Coastal Environments
Authors: Gonçalves Sílvia C.
Published: February 2022

Coastal ecosystems are presently one of the most impacted environments by contamination and human pressures [...]
Kinetic Study of Encapsulated β-Carotene Degradation in Dried Systems: A Review
Authors: Lavelli Vera , Sereikaitė Jolanta
Published: February 2022

β-Carotene serves as a precursor of vitamin A and provides relevant health benefits. To overcome the low bioavailability of β-carotene from natural sources, technologies have been designed for its encapsulation in micro- and nano-structures followed by freeze-drying, spray-drying, supercritical fluid-enhanced dispersion and electrospraying. A technological challenge is also to increase β-carotene stability, since due to its multiple conjugated double bonds, it is particularly prone to oxidation. This review analyzes the stability of β-carotene encapsulated in different dried micro- and nano-structures by comparing rate constants and activation energies of degradation. The complex effect of water activity and glass transition temperature on degradation kinetics is also addressed, since the oxidation process is remarkably dependent on the glassy or collapsed state of the matrix. The approaches to improve β-carotene stability, such as the development of inclusion complexes, the improvement of the performance of the interface between air and oil phase in which β-carotene was dissolved by application of biopolymer combinations or functionalization of natural biopolymers, the addition of hydrophilic small molecular weight molecules that reduce air entrapped in the powder and the co-encapsulation of antioxidants of various polarities are discussed and compared, in order to provide a rational basis for further development of the encapsulation technologies.
Enrichment of Sunflower Oil with Ultrasound-Assisted Extracted Bioactive Compounds from Crithmum maritimum L.
Authors: Sousa Gabriela , Alves Mariana I. , Neves Marta , Tecelão Carla , Ferreira-Dias Suzana
Published: February 2022

Crithmum maritimum L., or sea fennel, is an edible halophyte plant, rich in phenolic compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, that naturally grows in Mediterranean coasts. This study aims to incorporate bioactive compounds extracted from lyophilized Crithmum maritimum to sunflower oil assisted by ultrasounds (UAE), to improve its biological value and oxidative stability. UAE conditions were optimized as a function of time (5–20 min) and lyophilized plant concentration (5–20% m/v). The experiments were dictated by a central composite rotatable matrix. Oxidation products were not influenced by UAE conditions. Acidity, chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents were affected by both factors, while total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity (FRAP method) only increased with plant concentration. Response surfaces were fitted to these experimental results. Flavonoids were highly related with oil antioxidant activity. No sensory defects were detected in supplemented oil (12.5% m/v plant/5 min UAE). The oxidative stability of this oil was evaluated at 60 °C/12 days. Chlorophylls, phenols, radical scavenging (DPPH), and antioxidant activities decreased over time but were always higher than the values in non-supplemented oil (8.6 and 7-fold with FRAP and DPPH, respectively). C. maritimum presented high amounts of bioactive compounds with antioxidant activity, adequate for sunflower oil supplementation by UAE.
Effects of the Use of Different Temperature and Calcium Chloride Treatments during Storage on the Quality of Fresh-Cut “Xuebai” Cauliflowers
Authors: Mu Bingyu , Xue Jianxin , Zhang Shujuan , Li Zezhen
Published: February 2022

This study revealed the effect of the use of different temperature and calcium chloride (CaCl2) treatments on the storage quality of fresh-cut “Xuebai” cauliflowers. Fresh-cut “Xuebai” cauliflowers were soaked with 2% CaCl2 solution at different temperatures. The change in the firmness, color, and ascorbic acid (ASA), total glucosinolates (TGLS), polygalacturonase (PG), and lipoxygenase (LOX) content of fresh-cut “Xuebai” cauliflowers during the cold storage period was assessed. In addition, the sensory quality was also evaluated. The results show that the combined treatments with CaCl2 at different temperatures could effectively maintain the storage quality of fresh-cut “Xuebai” cauliflowers. Then, a method based on factor analysis with comprehensive quality evaluation was proposed. A factor analysis with a principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted on nine indicators of cauliflowers. Two principal components were extracted with a cumulative contribution rate of 97.513%. The results demonstrated that the treatment with the best fresh-keeping effect of cauliflowers in storage was the combination treatment at 40 °C with 2% CaCl2 solution, while the optimal storage period was 15 days.
High Milk Somatic Cell Counts and Increased Teladorsagia Burdens Overshadow Non-Infection-Related Factors as Predictors of Fat and Protein Content of Bulk-Tank Raw Milk in Sheep and Goat Farms
Authors: Lianou Daphne T. , Michael Charalambia K. , Gougoulis Dimitris A. , Cripps Peter J. , Vasileiou Natalia G. C. , Solomakos Nikolaos , Petinaki Efthymia , Katsafadou Angeliki I. , Angelidou Elisavet , Arsenopoulos Konstantinos V. , Papadopoulos Elias , Albenzio Marzia , Mavrogianni Vasia S. , Caroprese Mariangela , Fthenakis George C.
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the results of an extensive countrywide investigation performed in 325 dairy sheep flocks and 119 goat herds throughout Greece. The objectives of the study were (a) to investigate fat and protein content in the bulk-tank raw milk of small ruminant farms in Greece and (b) to identify factors potentially influencing that content and factors that can contribute to increased content. The mean fat/protein contents in bulk-tank raw milk of sheep and goats were 6.16 ± 0.05%/4.43 ± 0.01% and 4.77 ± 0.44%/3.23 ± 0.30%, respectively. Significant differences were seen in protein content between farms in the various parts of the country. For sheep, multivariable analyses revealed breed and age of lamb removal from dams as significant for fat content, and somatic cell counts, management system in the farm, administration of anthelmintic treatment during the last stage of pregnancy, and farmer education as significant for protein content. For goats, significant factors were month into lactation period, age of kid removal from dams, and breed for fat content, and somatic cell counts, month into lactation, grazing duration, and % Teladorsagia larvae in faecal samples for protein content. For concurrently high fat and protein content, in multivariable analyses, the following emerged as significant factors: somatic cell counts in milk, numbers of parasite eggs in faeces, and veterinary collaboration (sheep), and month into lactation and somatic cell counts in milk (goats). The results indicate that high somatic cell counts in milk (reflecting the presence of mastitis) and gastrointestinal parasitic infections (mainly Teladorsagia infection) appear to exert a more significant influence on fat and protein content of milk, in comparison to non-infection-related factors.
The Risk of Salt Reduction in Dry-Cured Sausage Assessed by the Influence on Water Activity and the Survival of Salmonella
Authors: Patarata Luis , Fernandes Liliana , Silva José António , Fraqueza Maria João
Published: February 2022

Water activity (aw) is the main hurdle for microbial control in dry-cured sausages. The aw can be influenced by drying or adding electrolytes or humectants. Dry-cured meat products are partially dried, which, together with added salt, results in safe aw values. Currently, there is a trend to reduce salt in meat products, which can compromise the preservation process. The present work aims to evaluate the influences of added salt levels (1% or 3%) and the use or omission of phosphates and wine on the aw of a dry-cured sausage, and to evaluate the possibility of estimating the aw from the moisture loss and the behavior of Salmonella during dry-cured sausage (chouriço) processing. There was a strong relationship between moisture and aw, regardless of the salt level and the presence of phosphates or wine. Predicting aw from moisture loss is possible using the Boltzmann sigmoid function. The salt level strongly influences Salmonella behavior, mainly through aw reduction. An increase in aw by 0.01 units reduced the odds of achieving a 5-log reduction in Salmonella counts to half. Increasing added salt from 1% to 3% increased the odds of achieving a 5-log Salmonella reduction 7.5-fold. The current trend to reduce salt in foods must be carefully approached if applied to cured meat products, as it has substantial consequences on aw evolution and Salmonella survival.
Effect of Wheatgrass Juice on Nutritional Quality of Apple, Carrot, Beet, Orange and Lemon Juice
Authors: Grubišić Sanja , Kristić Marija , Lisjak Miroslav , Mišković Špoljarić Katarina , Petrović Sonja , Vila Sonja , Rebekić Andrijana
Published: February 2022

Fresh fruit and vegetable juices are commonly consumed as a valuable source of nutrients, while wheatgrass juice is, due to its nutritional value, used as a natural dietary supplement. The main aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of wheatgrass juice addition to apple, beet, carrot, orange, and lemon juice on total and in vitro bioaccessible concentrations of K, Ca, Mg, Mn, Fe, and Zn, vitamin C concentration, total phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity. In comparison to other juices, wheatgrass juice had the highest total and in vitro bioaccessible concentrations of Ca, Mg, Mn, Fe, and Zn, while beet juice had the highest K concentration. Lemon and orange juices had the highest vitamin C concentration, while the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content were found in wheatgrass juice. After the addition of wheatgrass juice, Ca, Mg, Mn, and Zn concentration increased in all examined juices, vitamin C concentration increased in apple, beet, and carrot juice, total phenolic content increased in carrot juice, while total flavonoid content increased in apple, carrot, and orange juice. In comparison to the examined juices, wheatgrass juice has better nutritional value, and it could be used in a mixture with other juices to improve their nutritional value.
Analyzing the Effect of Baking on the Flavor of Defatted Tiger Nut Flour by E-Tongue, E-Nose and HS-SPME-GC-MS
Authors: Guan Chunbo , Liu Tingting , Li Quanhong , Wang Dawei , Zhang Yanrong
Published: February 2022

In order to screen for a proper baking condition to improve flavor, in this experiment, we analyzed the effect of baking on the flavor of defatted tiger nut flour by electronic tongue (E-tongue), electronic nose (E-nose) and headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). According to E-tongue and E-nose radar plots and principal component analysis (PCA), baking can effectively change the taste and odor of defatted tiger nut flour, and the odors of samples with a baking time of >8 min were significantly different from the original odor of unbaked flour. Moreover, bitterness and astringency increased with longer baking times, and sweetness decreased. HS-SPME-GC-MS detected a total of 68 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in defatted tiger nut flour at different baking levels, and most VOCs were detected at 8 min of baking. Combined with the relative odor activity value (ROAV) and heat map analysis, the types and contents of key flavor compounds were determined to be most abundant at 8 min of baking; 3-methyl butyraldehyde (fruity and sweet), valeraldehyde (almond), hexanal (grassy and fatty), and 1-dodecanol, were the key flavor compounds. 2,5-dimethyl pyrazine, and pyrazine, 2-ethylalkyl-3,5-dimethyl- added nutty aromas, and 1-nonanal, 2-heptanone, octanoic acid, bicyclo [3.1.1]hept-3-en-2-ol,4,6,6-trimethyl-, and 2-pentylfuran added special floral and fruity aromas.
Bread Sourdough Lactic Acid Bacteria—Technological, Antimicrobial, Toxin-Degrading, Immune System-, and Faecal Microbiota-Modelling Biological Agents for the Preparation of Food, Nutraceuticals and Feed
Authors: Bartkiene Elena , Özogul Fatih , Rocha João Miguel
Published: February 2022

This review intends to highlight the fact that bread sourdough is a very promising source of technological, antimicrobial, toxin-degrading, immune system-, and faecal microbiota-modelling biological agents for the preparation of food, nutraceuticals, and feed, which has great potential at industrial biotechnology scale. There are many applications of sourdough lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which are the main microorganisms in spontaneous sourdough. In addition to their application as pure technological strains in the food and feed industries, taking into consideration the specific properties of these microorganisms (antimicrobial, antifungal, immuno-, and microbiota-modulating, etc.), they are used as valuable ingredients in higher-value food as well as nutraceutical formulations. Additionally, a very promising application of LAB is their use in combination with plant- and/or animal-based ingredients to increase the functional properties of the whole combination due to different mechanisms of action, as well as desirable symbiotic activity. In addition to traditional foods prepared using sourdough microorganisms (bread, biscuits, meat products, dairy, beverages, etc.), they could find application in the preparation of added-value ingredients for the food, nutraceutical, and feed industries. Finally, this mini-review gives a brief introduction to the possible applications of sourdough LAB in the food, feed, and nutraceutical industries.
A Suicide Attempt with a Velo-Dog Pocket Revolver in an Alleged Victim of Carjacking
Authors: Durão Carlos , Dinis-Oliveira Ricardo Jorge
Published: February 2022

In hospital emergencies, we can have the most picturesque and impressive cases, from the simplest to the most complex. Violence cases are not rare, and among these are the injuries caused by firearms, which may vary in severity depending on the affected region and the energy of the projectile. Head injuries are generally very serious, and it is rare the individuals survival without sequelae. This work reports a 38-year-old man who was admitted to the emergency room alone in the morning, walking, lucid, and oriented, mentioning that the night before he was in the car and that he had been shot in the head in an attempt at carjacking. On examination, he had only one entry wound in the right temporal region, and the history revealed a suicide attempt with a very rare firearm: a Velo-Dog. We hypothesized that the low-density energy of this revolver, which historically used to be carried by cyclists as a defense against dog attacks, may partially explains the non-skull penetration.
Robust H∞ Control for Fractional Order Systems with Order α (0 < α < 1)
Authors: Li Bingxin , Liu Yaowei , Zhao Xin
Published: February 2022

In the paper, H∞ and robust H∞ control for fractional order systems (FOS) with order 0<α<1 are studied. Firstly, necessary and sufficient conditions of H∞ control and state feedback controller design are proposed. Then, robust H∞ control for FOS with uncertainty is studied, and state feedback controller is designed. These conditions are based on linear matrix inequalities (LMI) and can be easily solved by the LMI toolbox. Finally, the effectiveness of these conditions is verified by two numerical examples.
Detecting Gravitational Waves with Advanced Virgo
Authors: Nardecchia Ilaria
Published: February 2022

Advanced Virgo is the European gravitational-wave detector that, along with the American ones, is part of the global network of detectors that have been pinpointing gravitational waves since 2015. These kilometer-scale laser interferometers, measuring the distance between quasi-free-falling mirrors, represent the suitable detectors to explore the Universe through gravitational radiation. The initial Virgo experiment completed several runs of scientific data between 2007 and 2011, establishing the upper limits on the gravitational-wave rate expected for several astrophysical sources. The Advanced Virgo project led this instrument to unprecedented sensitivities making gravitational wave detections a routine occurrence. In this review, the basic techniques to build gravitational-waves interferometers and the upgrades needed to boost their sensitivities, even beyond the classical limit, are presented. The particular case of Advanced Virgo will be described hinting at its future developments, as well.
The Preliminary Evaluation of Epigenetic Modifications Regulating the Expression of IL10 in Insulin-Resistant Adipocytes
Authors: Cierzniak Aneta , Kaliszewski Krzysztof , Małodobra-Mazur Małgorzata
Published: February 2022

A higher level of IL10 expression in obesity and insulin resistance was observed in both human and mouse WAT. In our research, we analyzed the influence of insulin resistance on epigenetic modification within the promoter region IL10 gene and the potential influence of these modifications on its expression. Studies were performed using two cell models for the analysis: human, preadipocytes derived from adipose (visceral and subcutaneous) tissues and murine 3T3-L1 fibroblasts. We demonstrated a significant increase in the IL10 expression level, IL10 promoter region methylation, and histone 3 epigenetic modifications: H3K4me and H3K9/14ac, in insulin resistance cells (IR) from SAT cell culture. In IR cells from VAT cell culture, we observed decreased IL10 expression with a simultaneous increase of IL10 promoter region methylation. In IR cells from 3T3L1 cell culture, we observed the increased expression of IL10 as well as the decreased levels of methylation in the IL10 promoter region and histone methylation (H3K4me) and acetylation (H3K9/14ac). The presented analyses suggest a potential impact of epigenetic modifications on gene expression and a potential mutual influence of epigenetic modifications on each other or the activation of specific epigenetic regulation at a different stage of the development of insulin resistance in cells.
Kisspeptin-10 Promotes Progesterone Synthesis in Bovine Ovarian Granulosa Cells via Downregulation of microRNA-1246
Authors: Guo Lewei , Xu Haoran , Li Yajun , Liu Hongyu , Zhao Jing , Lu Wenfa , Wang Jun
Published: February 2022

The objective of this study was to clarify the effect of kisspeptin-10 (kp-10) on the synthesis of progesterone (P4) in bovine granulosa cells (BGCs) and its mechanisms via microRNA 1246 (miR-1246). According to the results, we found that treating with kp-10 for 24 h could increase P4 level, the mRNA expression of the steroidogenesis-related gene steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), free cholesterol content, and decrease miR-1246 expression in BGCs. Overexpression of miR-1246 significantly inhibited P4 synthesis, StAR mRNA expression, and free cholesterol content in BGCs, whereas underexpression of miR-1246 significantly reversed this effect in BGCs. Additionally, overexpression of miR-1246 counteracted the accelerative effect of kp-10 on P4 synthesis, StAR mRNA expression, and free cholesterol content in BGCs. Conversely, underexpression of miR-1246 enhanced the accelerative effect of kp-10 on P4 synthesis, StAR mRNA expression, and free cholesterol content in BGCs. Meanwhile, results of dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated that miR-1246 targeted the 3′UTR of StAR in BGCs. These results demonstrated that kp-10 induced P4 synthesis in BGCs by promoting free cholesterol transport via regulating expression of miR-1246/StAR.
Flood and Renewable Energy Humanitarian Engineering Research: Lessons from Aggitis, Greece and Dhuskun, Nepal
Authors: Schismenos Spyros , Stevens Garry J. , Georgeou Nichole , Emmanouloudis Dimitrios , Shrestha Surendra , Thapa Biraj S. , Gurung Supriya
Published: February 2022

Climate and energy crises are increasing worldwide. Community-led humanitarian engineering interventions for localized sustainable development and disaster resilience could support populations at risk. This article presents findings from a study that investigated flood response and energy needs of two riparian communities in Greece and Nepal. The findings indicate that the co-development of a hybrid unit for hydropower generation and flood warning is most preferred. This prototype could find applications in different riparian areas as either a main or supplementary system.
Social Stigma of Patients Suffering from COVID-19: Challenges for Health Care System
Authors: Rewerska-Juśko Magdalena , Rejdak Konrad
Published: February 2022

The meaning of the term social stigma has changed over the years. The history of this concept dates back to ancient times. Currently, social stigma is defined as the attitude of discrimination, disapproval, or negative perception of a given group due to the properties and features it represents. Stigmatization concerns the physical and mental spheres of an individual. The burden of stigma affects many people. Moreover, it is present in medicine, affects people with COVID-19 and presents a challenge for the health care system. Social stigma of individuals with COVID-19 is a worldwide problem and can be compounded by including race, profession, social status, religious identity, and vaccination status. Stigmatization may lead to negative consequences, including discrimination and social rejection of stigmatized individuals. In addition, it affects the close relatives of stigmatized individuals. The main goal of this review paper is to present the problem of stigma among patients suffering from COVID-19 and to list major challenges for the health care system in solving this problem. We undertook a review of literature published in PubMed systems, Scopus and Google Scholar. The results indicate that the stigmatization bears many negative consequences including limited access to health care, potential impact on health status of patients and worse outcomes. Early identification of the problem may help to implement appropriate strategies to combat the stigma.
Communication Requirements in 5G-Enabled Healthcare Applications: Review and Considerations
Authors: Qureshi Haneya Naeem , Manalastas Marvin , Ijaz Aneeqa , Imran Ali , Liu Yongkang , Al Kalaa Mohamad Omar
Published: February 2022

Fifth generation (5G) mobile communication technology can enable novel healthcare applications and augment existing ones. However, 5G-enabled healthcare applications demand diverse technical requirements for radio communication. Knowledge of these requirements is important for developers, network providers, and regulatory authorities in the healthcare sector to facilitate safe and effective healthcare. In this paper, we review, identify, describe, and compare the requirements for communication key performance indicators in relevant healthcare use cases, including remote robotic-assisted surgery, connected ambulance, wearable and implantable devices, and service robotics for assisted living, with a focus on quantitative requirements. We also compare 5G-healthcare requirements with the current state of 5G capabilities. Finally, we identify gaps in the existing literature and highlight considerations for this space.
The Origin of Late Roman Period–Post-Migration Period Lithuanian Horses
Authors: Piličiauskienė Giedrė , Kurila Laurynas , Simčenka Edvardas , Lidén Kerstin , Kooijman Ellen , Kielman-Schmitt Melanie , Piličiauskas Gytis
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we present the 87Sr/86Sr data of 13 samples from horses from six Lithuanian burial sites dating from the 3rd to the 7th C AD. Alongside these data, we also publish the bioavailable 87Sr/86Sr data of 15 Lithuanian archaeological sites, based on 41 animals which enabled the construction of a reliable baseline for the Southeast Baltic area. The 87Sr/86Sr values partially confirmed the hypothesis that the unusually large horses found in Late Roman Period to Post-Migration Period burials are of non-local origin. Of the three non-local horses identified, two were among the largest specimens. However, the overlap of bioavailable 87Sr/86Sr data across different European regions does not permit us to establish whether the non-local horses originated from other areas in Lithuania or from more distant regions. With regards to the 87Sr/86Sr data, the place of origin of the non-local horses could be Southern Sweden. This encourages discussions on the possible directions of migration and compels us to rethink the current models that posit South and Central Europe as the main sources of migration. The results of the 87Sr/86Sr, δ13C, and δ15N analyses demonstrate that horses buried in the same cemetery had different mobility and feeding patterns. Differences could be due to the different function and sex of the horses as well as the lifestyle of their owners. The most sedentary horses were pregnant mares, while the extremely high δ15N of three horses may reflect additional fodder and probably a better diet.
Exploring and Modeling the Short-Term Influence of Soil Properties and Covers on Hydrology of Mediterranean Forests after Prescribed Fire and Mulching
Authors: Zema Demetrio Antonio , Carrà Bruno Gianmarco , Lucas-Borja Manuel Esteban
Published: February 2022

Several studies have analyzed the changes in individual soil properties and covers and quantified the hydrological response of burned forest soils (with or without post-fire treatment). Less research exists on the influence of these changes on runoff and erosion rates immediately after a prescribed fire and post-fire treatment. Moreover, hydrological modeling of burned areas is based on complex models rather than relying on simple regression equations. This study carries out a combined analysis of the hydrological response of soil and its driving factors in three forests (pine, oak, and chestnut) of Southern Italy that were subjected to prescribed fire and post-fire treatment with mulching. Moreover, simple regression models based on a limited set of soil properties/covers are proposed to predict runoff and erosion. The Principal Component Analysis has shown that the runoff coefficients increase when the water infiltration rate and litter cover decrease and repellency, ash cover, organic carbon content, and bare soil area increase. All the analyzed variables play a secondary role in influencing the sediment concentration. Due to these properties, clear differences in soil properties and covers have been found between unburned and burned soils. The distinctions between the burned soils (mulched or not) are much lower. The proposed regression models use a very low number of soil covers and two dummy variables as input parameters. These models are very accurate in simulating the surface runoff and soil erosion in all soil conditions in the short term.
Challenging “The Hands of Technology”: An Analysis of Independent Living for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Moyà-Köhler Joan , Domènech Miquel
Published: February 2022

Technology has been holding out the promise of facilitating greater autonomy and improving care for people in a situation of dependency. This trend is expected to grow and this is happening precisely at a time of expansion of the so-called Independent Living paradigm. In this context, however, disability activists are generally suspicious of approaches based on being “left” in the hands of technology. They instead advocate for “subordinating hands” to their ability to decide, a principle that stands in tension with the field of intellectual disability, where individuals are perceived as intrinsically unable to make “good decisions”. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide insight into the uses and developments of technologies with regard to care and autonomy for people with intellectual disabilities. By ethnographically examining the case of a specific technology; QR (quick response) codes in the context of an independent living service, and in the framework of Science and Technology Studies and Disability Studies, the paper reveals the role and possibilities of care and autonomy technologies for people with intellectual disabilities. Based on these findings, and by thinking from what we could define as “within a sociotechnical assemblage”, this paper aims to rethink the ways in which technologies for independent living can be used in the field.
The Reliability and Medical Students’ Appreciation of Certainty-Based Marking
Authors: Smrkolj Špela , Bančov Enja , Smrkolj Vladimir
Published: February 2022

Certainty-Based Marking (CBM) involves asking students not only the answer to an objective question, but also how certain they are that their answer is correct. In a mixed method design employing an embedded approach with a quasi-experimental design, we have examined the use of CBM during a 5-week Gynaecology and Obstetrics course. The study was conducted as a non-mandatory revision exam with two additional questionnaires on Moodle. Majority of students perceive CBM as fair (78%) and useful (94%). Most students would immediately want CBM to be used for revision exams, but more practice would be needed for CBM to be used in graded exams. The lowest self-evaluation of knowledge was mostly seen by worst (less than 70% Accuracy) and best achievers (more than 90% Accuracy); the worst achievers probably have knowledge gaps, and the best achievers probably correctly guessed at least one question. Our findings conclude that CBM does not discriminate any learner type (p = 0.932) and does not change the general distribution of the exam scores, since there is no significant differences between Certainty-Based Score (M = 80.4%, SD = 10.4%) and Accuracy (M = 79.8%, SD = 11.1%); t(176) = 0.8327, p = 0.4061. These findings are widely applicable, as learner type study models are used extensively in education. In the future, larger samples should be studied and the implementation of CBM on question types other than MCQ should be investigated.
Examining Clinical Practice Guidelines for Exercise and Physical Activity as Part of Rehabilitation for People with Stroke: A Systematic Review
Authors: Church Gavin , Ali Ali , Smith Christine Leslie , Broom Dave , Sage Karen
Published: February 2022

Background: Stroke is the leading cause of chronic physical disability in Western industrialised nations. Despite clear guidelines for exercise in individuals with many non-communicable diseases, the guidance for people with stroke (PwS) who frequently present with multiple comorbidities is less clear. A systematic review of exercise guidelines was undertaken to synthesise themes and patterns. Methods: The review was completed according to the PRISMA statement. Guideline-specific databases were searched for worldwide clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). All included papers underwent quality assessment using the AGREE II protocol. Content synthesis and analysis of the guidelines was undertaken using CERT. Results: Searching identified 2184 papers. After duplicate removal and screening by title and abstract, 22 CPGs remained for review. Seven guidelines identified three key roles for exercise interventions: (1) promoting a healthy lifestyle, (2) prevention of further strokes and (3) rehabilitation. Of concern, many CPGs fail to recommend appropriate safety measures and standards, pre-, during and post-exercise or tailor for specific needs. Conclusions: Global guidelines for exercise in PwS lack in-depth and technical information on the exercise delivery methods, application and dosage required to progress exercise interventions for PwS.
Sedentary Time and Cognitive Impairment in Patients Using Long-Term Oxygen Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Annaka Hiroki , Nomura Tomonori , Moriyama Hiroshi
Published: February 2022

Physical inactivity is a predictor of death in patients with chronic respiratory disease. Cognitive impairment is common among patients with chronic respiratory disease. However, the association between sedentary time and cognitive impairment in patients with chronic respiratory disease using long-term oxygen therapy is unclear. This study aimed to determine the relationship between sedentary time and cognitive impairment in patients on long-term oxygen therapy. This cross-sectional study included 96 patients with chronic respiratory disease on long-term oxygen therapy (mean age 77.3 years; female, 22%). The primary outcomes measured were sedentary time (Japanese version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form), cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), and dyspnea (modified Medical Research Council scale). The factors associated with sedentary time were confirmed by multiple regression analysis. The median sedentary time was 600.0 min. The median Montreal Cognitive Assessment score was 24.0 points, and 67 (70%) patients had mild cognitive impairment. In multiple regression analysis, sedentary time was associated with dyspnea (β = 0.397, p < 0.001) and cognitive function (β = −0.239, p = 0.020). This study indicates that sedentary time in patients on long-term oxygen therapy was associated with dyspnea and cognitive impairment.
Multicomponent Aquatic Training (MAT) Program for People with Parkinson’s Disease: A Protocol for a Controlled Study
Authors: Siega Juliana , Iucksch Dielise Debona , Israel Vera Lucia
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The complications from Parkinson’s disease (PD) are directly related to decreased muscle function, balance deficits, and independence loss. Practicing aquatic exercises can minimize these symptoms and slow disease progress. Objective: To develop a Multicomponent Aquatic Training (MAT) protocol for people with PD between stages 1 and 4 of the Hoehn and Yahr scale. Methods: The protocol is for a single blind controlled clinical trial. The sample will comprise of people with PD between stages 1 and 4 in Hoehn and Yahr scale, divided into a control group and MAT group (who will participate in the MAT). Musculoskeletal function, functional mobility, and balance will be the primary outcomes of interest, assessed with an isokinetic dynamometer, the Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand test (FTSST), the Timed “Up and Go” test (TUG), the 6-m gait speed test, the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and a force platform. Quality of life (QOL), activities of daily living (ADL), and motor aspects will be the secondary outcome measures, assessed with the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) and Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), sections II and III. The MAT will be 12 weeks long, with two 50-min sessions per week. The outcome measures will be assessed before and after the interventions. Discussion: This study is expected to establish parameters to prescribe and monitor a MAT program for people with PD in stages 1 to 4 in the Hoehn and Yahr scale, respecting individual progress and assisting the professionals in their procedure with these people.
Artificial Intelligence: A New Diagnostic Software in Dentistry: A Preliminary Performance Diagnostic Study
Authors: De Angelis Francesca , Pranno Nicola , Franchina Alessio , Di Carlo Stefano , Brauner Edoardo , Ferri Agnese , Pellegrino Gerardo , Grecchi Emma , Goker Funda , Stefanelli Luigi
Published: February 2022

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) has taken hold in public health because more and more people are looking to make a diagnosis using technology that allows them to work faster and more accurately, reducing costs and the number of medical errors. Methods: In the present study, 120 panoramic X-rays (OPGs) were randomly selected from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Sciences of Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. The OPGs were acquired and analyzed using Apox, which takes a panoramic X-rayand automatically returns the dental formula, the presence of dental implants, prosthetic crowns, fillings and root remnants. A descriptive analysis was performed presenting the categorical variables as absolute and relative frequencies. Results: In total, the number of true positive (TP) values was 2.195 (19.06%); true negative (TN), 8.908 (77.34%); false positive (FP), 132 (1.15%); and false negative (FN), 283 (2.46%). The overall sensitivity was 0.89, while the overall specificity was 0.98. Conclusions: The present study shows the latest achievements in dentistry, analyzing the application and credibility of a new diagnostic method to improve the work of dentists and the patients’ care.
Effect of Physical Training on Body Composition in Brazilian Military
Authors: Gobbo Luis Alberto , Langer Raquel David , Marini Elisabetta , Buffa Roberto , Borges Juliano Henrique , Pascoa Mauro A. , Cirolini Vagner X. , Guerra-Júnior Gil , Gonçalves Ezequiel Moreira
Published: February 2022

The military are selected on the basis of physical standards and are regularly involved in strong physical activities, also related to particular sports training. The aims of the study were to analyze the effect of a 7-month military training program on body composition variables and the suitability of specific ‘bioelectrical impedance vector analysis’ (spBIVA), compared to DXA, to detect the changes in body composition. A sample of 270 male Brazilian cadets (19.1 ± 1.1 years), composed of a group practicing military physical training routine only (MT = 155) and a group involved in a specific sport training (SMT = 115), were measured by body composition assessments (evaluated by means of DXA and spBIVA) at the beginning and the end of the military routine year. The effect of training on body composition was similar in SMT and MT groups, with an increase in LST. DXA and spBIVA were correlated, with specific resistance (Rsp) and reactance (Xcsp) positively related to fat mass (FM), FM%, LST, and lean soft tissue index (LSTI), and phase angle positively related to LST and LSTI. Body composition variations due to physical training were recognized by spBIVA: the increase in muscle mass was indicated by the phase angle and Xcsp increase, and the stability of FM% was consistent with the unchanged values of Rsp. Military training produced an increase in muscle mass, but no change in FM%, independently of the sample characteristics at baseline and the practice of additional sports. SpBIVA is a suitable technique for the assessment of body composition in military people.