bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards 5G-based IoT security analysis against Vo5G eavesdropping
Authors: Kwon Sungmoon , Park Seongmin , Cho HyungJin , Park Youngkwon , Kim Dowon , Yim Kangbin
Published: January 2021

With the advent of 5G technology, the enhanced Mobile Broadband technology is translating 5G-based Internet of Things (IoT) such as smart home/building into reality. With such advances, security must mitigate greater risks associated with faster and more accessible technology. The 5G-based IoT security analysis is crucial to IoT Technology, which will eventually expand extensively into massive machine-type communications and Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications. This paper analyses the countermeasures and verification methods of eavesdropping vulnerabilities within IoT devices that use the current 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) network system. The network hierarchical structure of 5G-based IoT was evaluated for vulnerability analysis, performed separately for 5G Access Stratum (AS), Non-Access Stratum (NAS), and Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem (IMS). AS keystream reuse, NAS null-ciphering, and IMS IPsec off vulnerabilities were tested on mobile carrier networks to validate it on the 5G NSA network as well. A countermeasure against each vulnerability was presented, and our Intrusion Detection System based on these countermeasures successfully detected the presented controlled attacks.
Evaluating the usefulness of breast strain elastography for intraductal lesions
Authors: Kokubu Yumi , Yamada Keiko , Tanabe Masahiko , Izumori Ayumi , Kato Chieko , Horii Rie , Ohno Shinji , Matsueda Kiyoshi
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Strain elastography for imaging lesion stiffness is being used as a diagnostic aid in the malignant/benign discrimination of breast diseases. While acquiring elastography in addition to B-mode images has been reported to help avoid performing unnecessary biopsies, intraductal lesions are difficult to discriminate whether they are malignant or benign using elastography. An objective evaluation of strain in lesions was performed in this study by measuring the elasticity index (E-index) and elasticity ratio (E-ratio) of lesions as semi-quantitative numerical indicators of the color distribution of strain. We examined whether ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and intraductal papilloma could be distinguished using these semi-quantitative numerical indicators.

Methods

In this study, 170 ultrasonographically detected mass lesions in 162 cases (106 malignant lesions and 64 benign lesions)—in which tissue biopsy by core needle biopsy and vacuum-assisted biopsy, or surgically performed histopathological diagnosis, was performed—were selected as subjects from among 1978 consecutive cases (from January 2014 to December 2016) in which strain elastography images were acquired, in addition to standard B-mode breast ultrasonography, by measuring the E-index and E-ratio.

Results

The cut-off values for E-index and E-ratio in the malignant/benign discrimination of breast lesions were determined to be optimal values at 3.5 and 4.2, respectively, based on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. E-index sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and AUC value (area under the curve) were 85%, 86%, 85%, and 0.860, respectively, while those for E-ratio were 78%, 74%, 74%, and 0.780, respectively. E-index yielded superior results in all aspects of sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and AUC values, compared to those of E-ratio. The mean E-index values for malignant tumors and benign tumors were 4.46 and 2.63, respectively, indicating a significant difference (P < 0.001). E-index values of 24 DCIS lesions and 25 intraductal papillomas were 3.88 and 3.35, respectively, which showed a considerably close value, while the false-negative rate for DCIS was 29.2%, and the false-positive rate for intraductal papilloma was as high as 32.0%.

Conclusion

E-index in strain elastography yielded better results than E-ratio in the malignant/benign discrimination of breast diseases. On the other hand, E-index has a high false-negative rate and false-positive rate for intraductal lesions, a factor which should be taken into account when making ultrasound diagnoses.
Does spaced education improve clinical knowledge among Family Medicine residents? A cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Grad Roland , Leger Daniel , Kaczorowski Janusz , Schuster Tibor , Adler Samara , Aman Marya , Archibald Douglas , Beaulieu Marie-Claude , Chmelicek John , Cornelissen Evelyn , Delleman Bethany , Hadj-Mimoune Sonia , Horvey Samantha , Macaluso Steven , Mintsioulis Stephen , Murdoch Stuart , Ng Brian , Papineau Alain , Rangwala Sohil , Rousseau Mathieu , Rudkin Teresa , Schabort Inge , Schultz Karen , Snow Pamela , Wong Eric , Wu Pearson , Brailovsky Carlos
Published: January 2021

Spaced education is a learning strategy to improve knowledge acquisition and retention. To date, no robust evidence exists to support the utility of spaced education in the Family Medicine residency.
We aimed to test whether alerts to encourage spaced education can improve clinical knowledge as measured by scores on the Canadian Family Medicine certification examination. Method: We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial to empirically and pragmatically test spaced education using two versions of the Family Medicine Study Guide mobile app. 12 residency training programs in Canada agreed to participate. At six intervention sites, we consented 335 of the 654 (51%) eligible residents. Residents in the intervention group were sent alerts through the app to encourage the answering of questions linked to clinical cases. At six control sites, 299 of 586 (51%) residents consented. Residents in the control group received the same app but with no alerts. Incidence rates of case completion between trial arms were compared using repeated measures analysis. We linked residents in both trial arms to their knowledge scores on the certification examination of the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Results: Over 67 weeks, there was no statistically significant difference in the completion of clinical cases by participants. The difference in mean exam scores and the associated confidence interval did not exceed the pre-defined limit of 4 percentage points. Conclusion: Further research is recommended before deploying spaced educational interventions in the Family Medicine residency to improve knowledge.
Safety and efficacy of abemaciclib plus endocrine therapy in older patients with hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative advanced breast cancer: an age-specific subgroup analysis of MONARCH 2 and 3 trials
Authors: Goetz Matthew P. , Okera Meena , Wildiers Hans , Campone Mario , Grischke Eva-Maria , Manso Luis , André Valérie A. M. , Chouaki Nadia , San Antonio Belén , Toi Masakazu , Sledge George W.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Abemaciclib in combination with endocrine therapy (ET) has demonstrated significant efficacy benefits in HR+ , HER2− advanced breast cancer patients in the Phase 3 studies MONARCH 2 (fulvestrant as ET) and MONARCH 3 (letrozole or anastrozole as ET). Here, we report age-specific safety and efficacy outcomes.

Methods

Exploratory analyses of MONARCH 2 and 3 were performed for 3 age groups (<65, 65–74, and ≥75 years). For safety, data were pooled from both studies; for efficacy, a subgroup analysis of PFS was performed for each trial independently.

Results

Pooled safety data were available for 1152 patients. Clinically relevant diarrhea (Grade 2/3) was higher in older patients receiving abemaciclib + ET (<65, 39.5%; 65–74, 45.2%; ≥75, 55.4%) versus placebo + ET (<65, 6.8%; 65–74, 4.5%; ≥75, 16.0%). Nausea, decreased appetite, and venous thromboembolic events were all moderately higher in older patients. Neutropenia (Grade ≥ 3) did not differ as a function of age in the abemaciclib + ET arm (<65, 25.8%; 65–74, 27.4%; ≥75, 18.1%). Dose adjustments and discontinuation rates were slightly higher in older patients. Abemaciclib + ET improved PFS compared with placebo + ET independent of patient age, with no significant difference in abemaciclib treatment effect between the 3 age groups (MONARCH 2: interaction p-value, 0.695; MONARCH 3: interaction p-value, 0.634). Estimated hazard ratios ranged from 0.523–0.633 (MONARCH 2) and 0.480–0.635 (MONARCH 3).

Conclusions

While higher rates of adverse events were reported in older patients, they were manageable with dose adjustments and concomitant medication. Importantly, a consistent efficacy benefit was observed across all age groups.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02107703 (first posted April 8, 2014) and NCT02246621 (first posted September 23, 2014).
Regional shape, global function and mechanics in right ventricular volume and pressure overload conditions: a three-dimensional echocardiography study
Authors: Bidviene Jurate , Muraru Denisa , Maffessanti Francesco , Ereminiene Egle , Kovács Attila , Lakatos Bálint , Vaskelyte Jolanta-Justina , Zaliunas Remigijus , Surkova Elena , Parati Gianfranco , Badano Luigi P.
Published: January 2021

Our aim was to assess the regional right ventricular (RV) shape changes in pressure and volume overload conditions and their relations with RV function and mechanics. The end-diastolic and end-systolic RV endocardial surfaces were analyzed with three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) in 33 patients with RV volume overload (rToF), 31 patients with RV pressure overload (PH), and 60 controls. The mean curvature of the RV inflow (RVIT) and outflow (RVOT) tracts, RV apex and body (both divided into free wall (FW) and septum) were measured. Zero curvature defined a flat surface, whereas positive or negative curvature indicated convexity or concavity, respectively. The longitudinal and radial RV wall motions were also obtained. rToF and PH patients had flatter FW (body and apex) and RVIT, more convex interventricular septum (body and apex) and RVOT than controls. rToF demonstrated a less bulging interventricular septum at end-systole than PH patients, resulting in a more convex shape of the RVFW (r = − 0.701, p < 0.0001), and worse RV longitudinal contraction (r = − 0.397, p = 0.02). PH patients showed flatter RVFW apex at end-systole compared to rToF (p < 0.01). In both groups, a flatter RVFW apex was associated with worse radial RV contraction (r = 0.362 in rToF, r = 0.482 in PH at end-diastole, and r = 0.555 in rToF, r = 0.379 in PH at end-systole, respectively). In PH group, the impairment of radial contraction was also related to flatter RVIT (r = 0.407) and more convex RVOT (r = − 0.525) at end-systole (p < 0.05). In conclusion, different loading conditions are associated to specific RV curvature changes, that are related to longitudinal and radial RV dysfunction.
Left atrial strain rate during atrial contraction predicts raised pulmonary capillary wedge pressure: evidence for left atrio-ventricular interaction
Authors: Lindqvist Per , Henein Michael
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to assess the relationship between different LA strain components and PCWP as well as to the relationship with other established methods. We studied 144 symptomatic patients, age 63 ± 14 years, 54 males, using conventional transthoracic echocardiography protocols, including LA and LV myocardial deformation from speckle tracking technique investigations along with simultaneous right heart catheterization (RHC) using established techniques. From RHC, pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) were measured and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) calculated. LA strain rate during atrial contraction (LASRa) was the strongest correlate with PCWP (r2 =  − 0.40, p < 0.001), over and above both LASR during LV systole (LASRs) and LA longitudinal strain during ventricular systole (LASs) (r2 = 0.21 and 0.19, respectively, p < 0.001 for both). The correlation between LASRa and PCWP was stronger in patients with post-capillary PH compared to pre-capillary PH (r2 = 0.21 vs. r2 = 0.02, respectively). The strongest relationship between LASRa and PCWP was in patients with enlarged LA volume > 34 ml/m2 (r2 = 0.60, p < 0.001). In all patients LASRa <  = 0.9 1/s was 88% accurate in predicting LA pressure > 15 mmHg which was superior to recently proposed uni- and multi-variable models. LASR during atrial contraction is the strongest predictor of PCWP, particularly in patients with post-capillary PH and with dilated LA cavity. Furthermore, it proved superior to recently proposed uni- and multi-variable based algorithms. Its close relationship with LV strain rate counterpart reflects important left heart chamber interaction in patients with raised LA pressure.
A Pedagogy of Preparation: Helping Underprepared Students Succeed in College-Level Coursework in Community Colleges
Authors: Brower Rebecca L. , Nix Amanda N. , Daniels Hollie , Hu Xinye , Jones Tamara Bertrand , Hu Shouping
Published: January 2021

This paper presents an overall educational philosophy of working with students underprepared for college-level work, which we term “a pedagogy of preparation.” We consider how instructors scaffolded instruction to foster college readiness in students who were now able to enroll in college-level work regardless of academic preparation after state-level legislation (SB 1720) that dramatically altered the delivery of developmental education in the Florida College System (FCS). We also consider how collaboration increased among campus personnel after the legislation to foster college readiness in students underprepared for college-level work.
Comprehensive evaluation of corneas from normal, forme fruste keratoconus and clinical keratoconus patients using morphological and biomechanical properties
Authors: Zhang Hui , Tian Lei , Guo Lili , Qin Xiao , Zhang Di , Li Lin , Jie Ying , Zhang Haixia
Published: January 2021

Objective

To more comprehensively evaluate the ability of the parameters reflecting the morphological and biomechanical properties of the cornea to distinguish clinical keratoconus (CKC) and forme fruste keratoconus (FFKC) from normal.

Methods

Normal eyes (n = 50), CKC (n = 45) and FFKC (n = 15) were analyzed using Pentacam, Corvis ST and ORA. Stepwise logistic regression of all parameters was performed to obtain the optimal combination model capable of distinguishing CKC, FFKC from normal, named SLR1 and SLR2, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were applied to determine the predictive accuracy of the parameters and the two combination models, as described by the area under the curve (AUC). AUCs were compared using the DeLong method.

Results

The SLR1 model included only the TBI output by Pentacam, while the SLR2 model included the morphological parameter F.Ele.Th and two parameters from the Corvis ST, HC DfA and SP-A1. The majority of the parameters had sufficient strength to differentiate the CKC from normal corneas, even the seven separate parameters and the SLR1 model had a discrimination efficiency of 100%. The predictive accuracy of the parameters was moderate for FFKC, and the SLR2 model (0.965) presented an excellent AUC, followed by TBI, F.Ele.Th and BAD-D.

Conclusion

The F.Ele.Th from Pentacam was the most sensitive morphological parameter for FFKC, and the combination of F.Ele.Th, HC DfA and SP-A1 made the diagnosis of FFKC more efficient. The CRF and CH output by ORA did not improve the combined diagnosis, despite the corneal combination of morphological and biomechanical properties that optimized the diagnosis of FFKC.
Effect of light quality and quantity on productivity and phycoerythrin concentration in the cryptophyte Rhodomonas sp.
Authors: Latsos Christos , van Houcke Jasper , Blommaert Lander , Verbeeke Gabrielle P. , Kromkamp Jacco , Timmermans Klaas R.
Published: January 2021

The cryptophyteRhodomonassp.is a potential feed source for aquaculture live feed and resource for phycoerythrin (PE) production. This research investigates the influence of light, both quality and quantity, on the biomass productivity, composition and growth rate ofRhodomonassp. The incident light intensity used in the experiments was 50 μmolphotonsm−2 s−1, irrespective of the colour of the light, and cultivation took place in lab-scale flat-panel photobioreactors in turbidostat mode. The highest productivity in volumetric biomass (0.20 gdry weightL−1 day−1), measured under continuous illumination, was observed under green light conditions. Blue and red light illumination resulted in lower productivities, 0.11 gdry weightL−1 day−1and 0.02 g L−1 day−1respectively. The differences in production are ascribed to increased absorption of green and blue wavelength by phycoerythrin, chlorophyll and carotenoids, causing higher photosynthetically usable radiation (PUR) from equal photosynthetically absorbed irradiance (PAR). Moreover, phycoerythrin concentration (281.16 mg gDW−1) was stimulated under red light illumination. Because photosystem II (PSII) absorbs poorly red light, the algae had to induce more pigments in order to negate the lower absorption per unit pigment of the incident available photons. The results of this study indicate that green light can be used in the initial growth ofRhodomonassp.to produce more biomass and, at a later stage, red light could be implemented to stimulate the synthesis of PE. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis demonstrated a significant difference between the cells under different light quality, with higher contents of proteins for samples ofRhodomonassp.cultivated under green light conditions. In comparison, higher carbohydrate contents were observed for cells that were grown under red and blue light.
Possibility of an integrated transmission electron microscope: enabling complex in-situ experiments
Authors: Hattar Khalid , Jungjohann Katherine L.
Published: January 2021

Multimodal in-situ experiments are the wave of the future, as this approach will permit multispectral data collection and analysis during real-time nanoscale observation. In contrast, the evolution of technique development in the electron microscopy field has generally trended toward specialization and subsequent bifurcation into more and more niche instruments, creating a challenge for reintegration and backward compatibility for in-situ experiments on state-of-the-art microscopes. We do not believe this to be a requirement in the field; therefore, we propose an adaptive instrument that is designed to allow nearly simultaneous collection of data from aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM), probe-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy, ultrafast TEM, and dynamic TEM with a flexible in-situ testing chamber, where the entire instrument can be modified as future technologies are developed. The value would be to obtain a holistic understanding of the underlying physics and chemistry of the process-structure–property relationships in materials exposed to controlled extreme environments. Such a tool would permit the ability to explore, in-situ, the active reaction mechanisms in a controlled manner emulating those of real-world applications with nanometer and nanosecond resolution. If such a powerful tool is developed, it has the potential to revolutionize our materials understanding of nanoscale mechanisms and transients.

Graphical Abstract
Defect structures of sodium and chloride co-substituted hydroxyapatite and its osseointegration capacity
Authors: Yoo Dong Su , Cho Jung Sang , Chung Yong-Chae , Rhee Sang-Hoon
Published: January 2021

A defect structure and osseointegration capacity of sodium and chloride co-substituted hydroxyapatite (NaClAp) were newly studied. The NaClAp was prepared by reacting H3PO4 and Ca(OH)2 with NaNO3 and NH4Cl followed by sintering; pure hydroxyapatite (HAp) was synthesized as a control. After sintering, the co-substitution of Ca and OH with Na and Cl, respectively, produced charged point defects at Ca and PO4 sites. Also, OH molecules partially adopted a head-on structure. The calculated total system energy of NaClAp was higher, whereas the binding energies between each constituent elements and system were lower than those of HAp. These results suggest that NaClAp was less stable than HAp, due to the formation of various defects by co-substitution of Na and Cl. Indeed, NaClAp exhibited higher dissolution behavior in simulated body fluid (SBF) compared with HAp. Accordingly, this increased the capability to produce low crystalline hydroxyl carbonate apatite, likely due to the increasing degree of apatite supersaturation in SBF. Besides, the NaClAp granules showed noticeable improvements in osseointegration capacity four weeks after in vivo test compared with HAp. Collectively, these results imply that the defects made by multiple ion substitutions are useful to increase osseointegration capacity of hydroxyapatite.
Serum Sp17 Autoantibody Serves as a Potential Specific Biomarker in Patients with SAPHO Syndrome
Authors: You Hongqin , Dang Guanglei , Lu Bichao , Zhang Siya , Li Chen , Wang Lun , Hu Yu , Chen Hui , Zhang Jianmin , He Wei
Published: January 2021

SAPHO (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis) syndrome shows a wide variability in musculoskeletal and cutaneous manifestations, and it is therefore underrecognized and misdiagnosed in the clinic due to a lack of specific markers. In this study, we aimed to identify specific biomarkers by screening serum autoantibodies in SAPHO patients with a 17K human whole-proteome microarray. The serum anti-Sp17 autoantibody was identified and verified to be a specific biomarker in patients with SAPHO syndrome. Indeed, the level of the anti-Sp17 autoantibody was significantly increased in patients with active SAPHO compared to patients with an inactive disease and healthy controls (P < 0.05). Additionally, serum anti-Sp17 autoantibody levels correlated with those of serum hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and β-crosslaps (β-CTx) in patients with active SAPHO disease. Moreover, anti-Sp17 autoantibody levels were markedly decreased after anti-inflammatory treatment with pamidronate disodium, which downregulated levels of hsCRP and ESR in patients with active SAPHO. Thus, serum levels of the anti-Sp17 autoantibody might serve as a specific biomarker for the diagnosis of SAPHO syndrome or for monitoring the disease status.
Off-Axis Current Drive with Helicon Waves for CFETR
Authors: Yang Yuqing , Zhang Xinjun , Zhao Yanping , Qin Chengming
Published: January 2021

Off-axis current drive is necessary for Tokamak to maintain and regulate the current profile. Helicon wave is the high order harmonic fast wave and helicon wave current drive (HCD) is one of the key issues in the China Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR). The theory of HCD is briefly introduced and the simulation results are listed. Helicon waves can realize off-axis current drive under CFETR plasma parameters when the frequency is greater than 1 GHz and drive current is insensitive to the launched value of the parallel index of refraction n||, so wave accessibility issues can be reduced. Travelling Wave Antenna was analyzed by the commercial software package-CST. Near the resonant frequency of the antenna, the Voltage Standing Wave Ratio < 1.2 is obtained for the antenna in the bandwidth of 50 MHz, which means that the antenna does not require a matching system.
Population pharmacokinetic modeling of intramuscular and oral dexamethasone and betamethasone in Indian women
Authors: Krzyzanski Wojciech , Milad Mark A. , Jobe Alan H. , Peppard Thomas , Bies Robert R. , Jusko William J.
Published: January 2021

Population analysis of pharmacokinetic data for five differing dosage forms and routes for dexamethasone and betamethasone in 48 healthy nonpregnant Indian women was performed that accounted for a partial and complex cross-over design. Single doses of 6 mg dexamethasone phosphate (DEX-P), betamethasone phosphate (BET-P), or 1:1 mixture of betamethasone phosphate and acetate (BET-PA) were administered orally (PO) or intramuscularly (IM). Plasma concentrations collected for two periods over 96 h were described with a two-compartment model with differing PO and IM first-order absorption inputs. Clearances and volumes were divided by the IM bioavailability $${F}_{IM}$$

F

IM

. The homogeneous ages, body weights, and ethnicity of the women obviated covariate analysis. Parameter estimates were obtained by the Laplace estimation method implemented in NONMEM 7.4. Typical values for dexamethasone were clearance ($${CL/F}_{IM})$$

C
L
/
F

IM

)

of 9.29 L/h, steady-state volume ($${{V}_{ss}/F}_{IM})$$

V

ss

/
F

IM

)

of 56.4 L, IM absorption constant $$\left({k}_{aIM}\right)$$

k

aIM

of 0.460 1/h and oral absorption constant ($${k}_{aPO})$$

k

aPO

)

of 0.936 1/h. Betamethasone parameters were CL/FIM of 5.95 L/h, $${Vss/F}_{IM}$$

V
s
s
/
F

IM

of 72.4 L, $${k}_{aIM}$$

k

aIM

of 0.971 1/h, and $${k}_{aPO}$$

k

aPO

of 1.21 1/h. The PO to IM F values were close to 1.0 for both drugs. The terminal half-lives averaged about 7.5 h for DEX, 17 h for BET, and 78 h for BET from BET-PA with the latter reflecting very slow release of BET from the acetate ester. Overall, BET exhibited slower clearance, larger volume of distribution, faster absorption, and longer persistence than DEX. These data may be useful in considering exposures when substituting one form of corticosteroid for another.
Optimal design of gears contact interface modification for an objective as minimum impact resistance of initial meshing-in time domain
Authors: Wang Xigui , Ruan Jiafu , Wang Yongmei , Ji Shue , An Siyuan
Published: January 2021

In gear pair actual alternating meshing process, the comprehensive errors of the transmission system and the thermal elastic deformation of the teeth body cause the gears in the meshing state to high pair contact nodes inconsistently, especially the transient process of meshing-in and meshing-out points will deviate from the theoretical line, which will cause a sudden change in the meshing velocity and cause instantaneous impact of meshing. Off line meshing impact will generate large additional loads, which has attracted many attentions. The gear transmission system vibration and noise are increased, and the impact of gear teeth meshing-in is significantly greater than that of meshing-out. Therefore, optimal analysis of the impact with the minimum value of gear teeth meshing-in includes determining the initial meshing points, calculating of meshing impact velocity and the impact force of teeth meshing-out. The optimized calculation model using loaded teeth contact analysis method is validated.
Binarization of music score with complex background by deep convolutional neural networks
Authors: Tran Minh-Trieu , Vo Quang-Nhat , Lee Guee-Sang
Published: January 2021

Binarization is an important step for most of document analysis systems. Regarding music score images with a complex background, the existence of background clutters with a variety of shapes and colors creates many challenges for the binarization. This paper presents a model for binarization of the complex background music score images by fusion of deep convolutional neural networks. Our model is directly trained from image regions using pixel values as inputs and the binary ground truth as labels. By utilizing the generalization capability of the residual network backbone and useful feature learning ability of dense layer, the proposed network structures can differentiate foreground pixels from background clutters, minimize the possibility of overfitting phenomenon and thus can deal with complex background noises appearing in the music score images. Comparing to traditional algorithms, binary images generated by our method have a cleaner background and better-preserved strokes. The experiments with captured and synthetic music score images show promising results compared to existing methods.
Patient Satisfaction with and Use of Telemental Health Services in the Perinatal Period: a Survey Study
Authors: Ackerman Marra , Greenwald Elizabeth , Noulas Paraskevi , Ahn Christina
Published: January 2021

We aimed to assess patients’ utilization of and satisfaction with telemental health (TMH) in the perinatal period. We hypothesized that satisfaction with TMH would be at least equal to, if not greater than, with in-person appointments. We conducted a cross-sectional survey between March 2018–June 2019 to evaluate patient satisfaction with and use of TMH services in the perinatal period. Participants used TMH services across the second and third trimester of pregnancy and the first year post-partum. Nearly half of the patients (8/19, 42%) used TMH to see their provider within the first two weeks post-partum. Participants were most commonly in treatment for anxiety (14/19, 74%) and/or depression (9/19, 47%). Most participants agreed or strongly agreed (13/19, 69%) that TMH improved their access to healthcare and that they could see the clinician as well as if they met in person (14/19, 74%). TMH was a highly accepted and appreciated method of mental health care delivery for perinatal women when offered as an alternative to in-person or telephone sessions.
Optimal Wetting Angles in Lattice Boltzmann Simulations of Viscous Fingering
Authors: Mora Peter , Morra Gabriele , Yuen Dave A. , Juanes Ruben
Published: January 2021

We conduct pore-scale simulations of two-phase flow using the 2D Rothman–Keller colour gradient lattice Boltzmann method to study the effect of wettability on saturation at breakthrough (sweep) when the injected fluid first passes through the right boundary of the model. We performed a suite of 189 simulations in which a “red” fluid is injected at the left side of a 2D porous model that is initially saturated with a “blue” fluid spanning viscosity ratios$$M = \nu _\mathrm{r}/\nu _\mathrm{b} \in [0.001,100]$$M=νr/νb∈[0.001,100]and wetting angles$$\theta _\mathrm{w} \in [ 0^\circ ,180^\circ ]$$θw∈[0∘,180∘]. As expected, at low-viscosity ratios$$M=\nu _\mathrm{r}/\nu _\mathrm{b} \ll 1$$M=νr/νb≪1we observe viscous fingering in which narrow tendrils of the red fluid span the model, and for high-viscosity ratios$$M \gg 1$$M≫1, we observe stable displacement. The viscous finger morphology is affected by the wetting angle with a tendency for more rounded fingers when the injected fluid is wetting. However, rather than the expected result of increased saturation with increasing wettability, we observe a complex saturation landscape at breakthrough as a function of viscosity ratio and wetting angle that contains hills and valleys with specific wetting angles at given viscosity ratios that maximize sweep. This unexpected result that sweep does not necessarily increase with wettability has major implications to enhanced oil recovery and suggests that the dynamics of multiphase flow in porous media has a complex relationship with the geometry of the medium and the hydrodynamical parameters.
Enhanced Bruton’s tyrosine kinase activity in the kidney of patients with IgA nephropathy
Authors: Wei Jie , Wang Yan , Qi Xiangming , Wu Yonggui
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) is a vital biological molecule that contributes to immune regulation. Previous studies have showed that BTK can be detected in patients with lupus nephritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, the role of BTK in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) has not yet been elucidated. The purpose of this research was to investigate the role of BTK activation in macrophages in IgAN.

Methods

Peripheral blood and renal tissue samples were collected from 63 patients with IgAN, and peritumoral normal tissues were collected from 20 patients after surgical resection of renal tumor for use as control. Additionally, 20 healthy volunteers were recruited as control. The levels of BTK, CD68, phosphorylated BTK (pBTK), phosphorylated NF-κB (p-NF-κB p65), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1 were measured by immunohistochemistry (IHC), real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Compared to peritumoral normal tissues, the expression levels of CD68 and BTK were significantly increased in IgAN group (p < 0.001) and the differences between M0 and M1, E0 and E1, S0 and S1, T0 and T1-2, C0 and C1-2 were statistically significant in the updated Oxford Classification (p < 0.05). Also, CD68 and BTK were positively correlated with Katafuchi semi-quantitative glomerular and tubulointerstitial scores (r = 0.580, 0.637 and 0.442, 0.489, respectively, p < 0.05). The expression of BTK was significantly higher in C3b- and C4d-positive renal tissues of patients with IgAN (p < 0.05). In addition, BTK was positively correlated with 24-h urine protein, serum creatinine levels (r = 0.456 and 0.453, respectively, p < 0.001), and negatively correlated with serum albumin (r = 0.357, p < 0.05). The intensity of expression of pBTK and p-NF-κB p65 was observably increased in renal tissues and monocytes of patients with IgAN compared to the control group. The results of IHC, RT-PCR, and ELISA indicated that the levels of TNF-ɑ, IL-1β, and MCP-1 were markedly increased in the IgAN group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that activation of BTK in macrophages may play an important role in promoting the progression of renal inflammation in IgAN.
The design of RIP belts impacts the reliability and quality of the measured respiratory signals
Authors: Montazeri Kristofer , Jonsson Sigurdur Aegir , Agustsson Jon Skirnir , Serwatko Marta , Gislason Thorarinn , Arnardottir Erna S.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Evaluate the effect of respiratory inductance plethysmography (RIP) belt design on the reliability and quality of respiratory signals. A comparison of cannula flow to disposable cut-to-fit, semi-disposable folding and disposable RIP belts was performed in clinical home sleep apnea testing (HSAT) studies.

Methods

This was a retrospective study using clinical HSAT studies. The signal reliability of cannula, thorax, and abdomen RIP belts was determined by automatically identifying periods during which the signals did not represent respiratory airflow and breathing movements. Results were verified by manual scoring. RIP flow quality was determined by examining the correlation between the RIP flow and cannula flow when both signals were considered reliable.

Results

Of 767 clinical HSAT studies, mean signal reliability of the cut-to-fit, semi-disposable, and disposable thorax RIP belts was 83.0 ± 26.2%, 76.1 ± 24.4%, and 98.5 ± 9.3%, respectively. The signal reliability of the cannula was 92.5 ± 16.1%, 87.0 ± 23.3%, and 85.5 ± 24.5%, respectively. The automatic assessment of signal reliability for the RIP belts and cannula flow had a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 99% compared with manual assessment. The mean correlation of cannula flow to RIP flow from the cut-to-fit, semi-disposable, and disposable RIP belts was 0.79 ± 0.24, 0.52 ± 0.20, and 0.86 ± 0.18, respectively.

Conclusion

The design of RIP belts affects the reliability and quality of respiratory signals. The disposable RIP belts that had integrated contacts and did not fold on top of themselves performed the best. The cut-to-fit RIP belts were most likely to be unreliable, and the semi-disposable folding belts produced the lowest-quality RIP flow signals compared to the cannula flow signal.
Development and validation of an analysis method for pesticide residues by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in Daikenchuto
Authors: Saegusa Hirokazu , Nomura Hiroshi , Takao Masaki , Hamaguchi Takashi , Yoshida Masaru , Kodama Yuzo
Published: January 2021

Daikenchuto (DKT) is one of the most widely used “Kampo” in Japan as a representative of herbal medicine. Because DKT is made from a natural product like food, it requires the management of pesticides; therefore, an analysis of residual pesticides in Kampo is required. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that pesticide residue analysis by the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) is required. USP defines 107 compounds containing organochlorine pesticides and organophosphorus pesticides and their metabolites, which have a high residual risk. Accordingly, to guarantee the safety of herbal medicines according to global standards is a very important issue. In this study, we developed an analytical method for 91 compounds, which are listed in USP, using DKT as the subject. The method could extract pesticides from DKT with acetone, elute pesticides with acetonitrile using a SepPak C18 column (5 g) and with ethyl acetate using a DSC-NH2 column (2 g), and perform simultaneous analyses by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS). This method, which could quantify 88 compounds, was validated according to USP. A pesticide residue analysis method that meets USP requirements enables the analysis of pesticide residues with a high residue risk and contributes to improving the safety of “Kampo” and other herbal medicines.
Diffusion analysis of fluid dynamics with incremental strength of motion proving gradient (DANDYISM) to evaluate cerebrospinal fluid dynamics
Authors: Taoka Toshiaki , Kawai Hisashi , Nakane Toshiki , Abe Takashi , Nakamichi Rei , Ito Rintaro , Sato Yuki , Sakai Mayuko , Naganawa Shinji
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To visualize and analyze the dynamics of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) motion in the cranium, we evaluated the distribution of motion-related signal dephasing by CSF on Diffusion ANalysis of fluid DYnamics with Incremental Strength of Motion proving gradient (DANDYISM) method, a composite imaging method using various low b values.

Materials and methods

This study examined ten subjects aged 25–58. We acquired DWIs on a 3T clinical scanner with b values 0, 50, 100, 200, 300, 500, 700, and 1000 s/mm2 in total imaging time of 4 min. We constructed DANDYISM images and evaluated the CSF area distribution with decreased motion-dephasing signal using a scoring method.

Results

The DANDYISM images showed statistically significant higher CSF scores in the ventral posterior fossa, suprasellar cistern, and Sylvian vallecula compared to the lateral ventricle and frontal and parietal CSF spaces, indicating greater CSF movement in the former areas.

Conclusion

The results indicated prominent CSF motions in the ventral portion of the posterior fossa, suprasellar cistern, and Sylvian fissure but smaller motions in the lateral ventricles and parietal subarachnoid space. This method may provide information of CSF dynamics in the clinical settings within short imaging time.
Implementing the urban food–water–energy nexus through urban laboratories: a systematic literature review
Authors: Wahl Darin , Ness Barry , Wamsler Christine
Published: January 2021

The sustainability of complex resource systems, such as the food, water, and energy (FWE) nexus, is increasingly threatened by climate change impacts, expanding populations, urbanization, and economic instability. However, while research on the topic has burgeoned, studies focused on solution development and implementation, especially at the urban level, have lagged behind. Against this background, we review the urban FWE nexus literature. We focus on the operationalization of solutions for implementation, and seek to identify opportunities for participatory approaches. Our results suggest that operationalization would benefit from: (1) more fully integrating urban social complexity; (2) extending our understanding of the nexus to include social responses to the impacts of interventions; and (3) ensuring that projects build knowledge that is not only actionable, but also credible, salient, and legitimate. We then discuss the potential of local, transdisciplinary approaches, in the form of urban laboratories, to shift the focus of FWE nexus research towards operationalization. We conclude with five recommendations: (1) knowledge development should extend to implementation; (2) stakeholders should be engaged, and be able to align solutions with the agency to implement; (3) research should move beyond material flows, and focus on the behaviors, habits, and social patterns that underpin urban complexity; (4) FWE nexus thinking should become part of participatory/laboratory approaches; and (5) policymakers should integrate nexus research into municipal strategies and plans.
Morphometry of leaf and shoot variables to assess aboveground biomass structure and carbon sequestration by different varieties of white mulberry (Morus alba L.)
Authors: Bajwa Ghulam Ali , Umair Muhammad , Nawab Yasir , Rizwan Zahid
Published: January 2021

Mulberry is economically important and can also play a pivotal role in mitigating greenhouse gases. Leaf and shoot traits were measured forMorus albavar. Kanmasi,M. albavar. Karyansuban,M. albavar. Latifolia, andM. albavar. PFI-1 to assess aboveground biomass (AGB) and carbon sequestration. Variety-specific and multivariety allometric AGB models were developed using the equivalent diameter at breast height (EDBH) and plant height (H). The complete-harvest method was used to measure leaf and shoot traits and biomass, and the ash method was used to measure organic carbon content. The results showed significant (p < 0.01) varietal differences in leaf and shoot traits, AGB and carbon sequestration. PFI-1 variety had the greatest leaf density (mean ± SE: 1828.3 ± 0.3 leaves tree−1), Karyansuban had the largest mean leaf area (185.94 ± 8.95 cm2). A diminishing return was found between leaf area and leaf density. Latifolia had the highest shoot density per tree (46.6 ± 1.83 shoots tree−1), total shoot length (264.1 ± 2.32 m), dry biomass (16.69 ± 0.58 kg tree−1), carbon sequestration (9.99 ± 0.32 kg tree−1) and CO2mitigation (36.67 ± 1.16 kg). The variety-specific AGB modelsb(EDBH) andb(EDBH)2showed good fit and reasonable accuracy with a coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.98–0.99, standard error of estimates (SEE) = 0.1125–0.3130 and root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.1084–0.3017. The multivariety modelsbln(EDBH) and (EDBH)0.756showed good-fitness and accuracy withR2 = 0.85–0.86, SEE = 1.6231–1.6445 and RMSE = 1.609–1.630. On the basis of these findings, variety Latifolia has good potential for biomass production, and allometric equations based on EDBH can be used to estimate AGB with a reasonable accuracy.
Resting-state functional MRI shows altered default-mode network functional connectivity in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients
Authors: Doorenweerd Nathalie , de Rover Mischa , Marini-Bettolo Chiara , Hollingsworth Kieren G. , Niks Erik H. , Hendriksen Jos G. M. , Kan Hermien E. , Straub Volker
Published: January 2021

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive neuromuscular disorder caused by absence of dystrophin protein. Dystrophin is expressed in muscle, but also in the brain. Difficulties with attention/inhibition, working memory and information processing are well described in DMD patients but their origin is poorly understood. The default mode network (DMN) is one of the networks involved in these processes. Therefore we aimed to assess DMN connectivity in DMD patients compared to matched controls, to better understand the cognitive profile in DMD. T1-weighted and resting state functional MRI scans were acquired from 33 DMD and 24 male age-matched controls at two clinical sites. Scans were analysed using FMRIB Software Library (FSL). Differences in the DMN were assessed using FSL RANDOMISE, with age as covariate and threshold-free cluster enhancement including multiple comparison correction. Post-hoc analyses were performed on the visual network, executive control network and fronto-parietal network with the same methods. In DMD patients, the level of connectivity was higher in areas within the control DMN (hyperconnectivity) and significant connectivity was found in areas outside the control DMN. No hypoconnectivity was found and no differences in the visual network, executive control network and fronto-parietal network. We showed differences both within and in areas outside the DMN in DMD. The specificity of our findings to the DMN can help provide a better understanding of the attention/inhibition, working memory and information processing difficulties in DMD.
ActivinA Induced SMAD1/5 Signaling in an iPSC Derived EC Model of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) Can Be Rescued by the Drug Candidate Saracatinib
Authors: Hildebrandt Susanne , Kampfrath Branka , Fischer Kristin , Hildebrand Laura , Haupt Julia , Stachelscheid Harald , Knaus Petra
Published: January 2021

Balanced signal transduction is crucial in tissue patterning, particularly in the vasculature. Heterotopic ossification (HO) is tightly linked to vascularization with increased vessel number in hereditary forms of HO, such as Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). FOP is caused by mutations in the BMP type I receptor ACVR1 leading to aberrant SMAD1/5 signaling in response to ActivinA. Whether observed vascular phenotype in human FOP lesions is connected to aberrant ActivinA signaling is unknown. Blocking of ActivinA prevents HO in FOP mice indicating a central role of the ligand in FOP. Here, we established a new FOP endothelial cell model generated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iECs) to study ActivinA signaling. FOP iECs recapitulate pathogenic ActivinA/SMAD1/5 signaling. Whole transcriptome analysis identified ActivinA mediated activation of the BMP/NOTCH pathway exclusively in FOP iECs, which was rescued to WT transcriptional levels by the drug candidate Saracatinib. We propose that ActivinA causes transcriptional pre-patterning of the FOP endothelium, which might contribute to differential vascularity in FOP lesions compared to non-hereditary HO.

Graphical abstract
Human Amnion-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Cirrhotic Patients with Refractory Ascites: A Possible Anti-Inflammatory Therapy for Preventing Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
Authors: Pampalone Mariangela , Corrao Simona , Amico Giandomenico , Vitale Giampiero , Alduino Rossella , Conaldi Pier Giulio , Pietrosi Giada
Published: January 2021

Cirrhosis is associated with dysregulated immune cell activation and immune dysfunction. These conditions modify gut flora, facilitate bacterial translocation, and increase susceptibility to bacterial peritonitis and consequent systemic infections by dramatically affecting long-term patient survival. Human amnion-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hA-MSCs) exert immunomodulatory potential benefit, and have the ability to modulate their actions, especially in situations requiring immune activation through mechanisms not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate, in vitro, the immunostimulant or immunosuppressive effects of hA-MSCs on cellular components of ascitic fluid obtained from cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites. We found that hA-MSCs viability is not affected by ascitic fluid and, interestingly, hA-MSCs diminished the pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and promoted anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization. Moreover, we found that there was no simultaneous significant decrease in the M1-like component, allowing a continual phagocytosis activity of macrophages and NK cells to restore a physiological condition. These data highlight the plasticity of hA-MSCs’ immunomodulatory capacity, and pave the way to further understanding their role in conditions such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

Graphical abstract