bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crisis Concept Re-loaded?—The Recently Described Suicide-Specific Syndromes May Help to Better Understand Suicidal Behavior and Assess Imminent Suicide Risk More Effectively
Authors: Voros Viktor , Tenyi Tamas , Nagy Agnes , Fekete Sandor , Osvath Peter
Published: March 2021

Background: Despite of the decreasing suicide rates in many countries, suicide is still a major public health concern worldwide. Traditional suicide risk factors have limited clinical predictive value, as they provide little reliable information on the acute psychological processes leading to suicide.

Aims: The aim of this analysis is to describe and compare the recently introduced two suicide-specific syndromes [Acute Suicidal Affective Disturbance (ASAD) and Suicidal Crisis Syndrome (SCS)] with the classic psychological features of pre-suicidal crisis and also to assess the clinical utility of the new suicide prediction scales in contrast to classical risk factors.

Method: Conceptual analysis.

Results: Suicide-specific syndromes are not novel in terms of symptomatology or dynamics of symptom onset, but in their use of well-defined diagnostic criteria. In addition to symptomatic classification, they also provide an opportunity to objectively measure the current pre-suicidal emotional and mental state by validated tools.

Limitations: Future studies need to be completed to prove the reliability and predictive validity of suicide-specific diagnostic categories and the related suicide risk assessment tools.

Conclusion: Clinical use of suicide-specific syndromes is suggested. This transdiagnostic approach not only enables a more accurate and objective assessment of imminent suicide risk, but also facilitates research in neuroscience, which represent a major step forward in managing and complex understanding of suicidal behavior.
Case Report: A Case of Pediatric Catatonia: Role of the Lorazepam Challenge Test
Authors: Ridgeway Laura , Okoye Albert , McClelland Ian , Dhossche Dirk , Kutay Deniz , Loureiro Mario
Published: March 2021

A case of a 12-year-old boy who developed catatonia is presented. He had no previous psychiatric history but has a family history of affective disorder. An extensive medical workup was negative. Despite a negative lorazepam challenge test, lorazepam was titrated up to 24 mg/day, with resolution of most catatonic symptoms. The case highlights an important point in the management of catatonia that may be a source of confusion, i.e., a positive lorazepam challenge test corroborates the diagnosis of catatonia; however, a negative lorazepam challenge test does not negate the diagnosis of catatonia, and subsequent focused benzodiazepine treatment may still be effective.
Pre-Sabine Room Acoustic Guidelines on Audience Rake, Stage Acoustics, and Dimension Ratios
Authors: Postma Barteld , Green Evan , Kahle Eckhard , Katz Brian
Published: March 2021

Prior to Sabine’s work on the Fogg Art Museum and Boston Symphony Hall, several numerical guidelines had been developed and applied to the design of rooms with specific acoustic demands such as theatres, concert halls, and opera houses. Previous papers have discussed guidelines based on the following principles: voice directivity, which was employed in the design of at least 11 rooms; “echo theory”, which quantifies the perception threshold between direct sound and first order reflections in order to prevent echoes from occurring, aiding in the design of at least 7 rooms and leading to the first known use of an acoustic scale model; and notions of reverberation, which influenced the design of at least 14 rooms. This paper discusses three additional pre-Sabine numerical guidelines that were used in room acoustic design: (1) audience rake, (2) stage acoustics and proscenium design, and (3) length, width, and height ratios. The origin of these theories, as well as examples of rooms in which they were applied, are discussed and compared to current practices in room acoustic design.
The Impact of Transport Infrastructure on the Sustainable Development of the Region—Case Study
Authors: Prus Piotr , Sikora Marek
Published: March 2021

The transport infrastructure can be defined as a factor that guarantees the growth and economic development of the region, due to the functions of traversing space in terms of the movement of people and the exchange of goods. The effects of the impact of transport infrastructure on the economy of the region largely depend on how the society uses the services offered by infrastructure facilities and devices. The study examines the impact of transport infrastructure on the sustainable socio-economic development of the Wałcz Lake District. To conduct the analysis, a questionnaire addressed to entrepreneurs from this region was used. In the second part of the research, the indicators of sustainable development at the regional level were applied: the level of transport infrastructure and the level of socio-economic development of the studied area. The study is an attempt to fill the cognitive gap for areas outside the country’s main transport corridors. The existing differentiation in both the development of infrastructure and the economic attractiveness of urban and rural areas was shown. Factors influencing the effectiveness of implementing the concept of sustainable rural development were indicated.
Predictive Capacity of Boar Sperm Morphometry and Morphometric Sub-Populations on Reproductive Success after Artificial Insemination
Authors: Barquero Vinicio , Roldan Eduardo R. S. , Soler Carles , Yániz Jesús L. , Camacho Marlen , Valverde Anthony
Published: March 2021

The aim of the study was to compare the morphometric features of sperm head size and shape from the Pietrain line and the Duroc × Pietrain boar crossbred terminal lines, and to evaluate their relationship with reproductive success after artificial insemination of sows produced from crossbreeding the York, Landrace and Pietrain breeds. Semen samples were collected from 11 sexually mature boars. Only ejaculates with greater than 70% motility rate and <15% of abnormal sperm were used for artificial inseminations (AI) and included in the study. Samples were analyzed using an ISAS®v1 computer-assisted sperm analysis system for eight morphometric parameters of head shape and size (CASA-Morph). Sub-populations of morphometric ejaculates were characterized using multivariate procedures, such as principal component (PC) analysis and clustering methods (k-means model). Four different ejaculate sub-populations were identified from two PCs that involved the head shape and size of the spermatozoa. The discriminant ability of the different morphometric sperm variables to predict sow litter size was analyzed using a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis. Sperm head length, ellipticity, elongation, and regularity showed significant predictive capacity on litter size (0.59, 0.59, 0.60, and 0.56 area under curve (AUC), respectively). The morphometric sperm sub-populations were not related to sow litter size.
A Data Driven Approach for Raw Material Terminology
Authors: Kitanović Olivera , Stanković Ranka , Tomašević Aleksandra , Škorić Mihailo , Babić Ivan , Kolonja Ljiljana
Published: March 2021

The research presented in this paper aims at creating a bilingual (sr-en), easily searchable, hypertext, born-digital, corpus-based terminological database of raw material terminology for dictionary production. The approach is based on linking dictionaries related to the raw material domain, both digitally born and printed, into a lexicon structure, aligning terminology from different dictionaries as much as possible. This paper presents the main features of this approach, data used for compilation of the terminological database, the procedure by which it has been generated and a mobile application for its use. Available (terminological) resources will be presented—paper dictionaries and digital resources related to the raw material domain, as well as general lexica morphological dictionaries. Resource preparation started with dictionary (retro)digitisation and corpora enlargement, followed by adding new Serbian terms to general lexica dictionaries, as well as adding bilingual terms. Dictionary development is relying on corpus analysis, details of which are also presented. Usage examples, collocations and concordances play an important role in raw material terminology, and have also been included in this research. Some important related issues discussed are collocation extraction methods, the use of domain labels, lexical and semantic relations, definitions and subentries.
Behavioral Modeling of Memristor-Based Rectifier Bridge
Authors: Solovyeva Elena , Schulze Steffen , Harchuk Hanna
Published: March 2021

In electrical engineering, radio engineering, robotics, computing, control systems, etc., a lot of nonlinear devices are synthesized on the basis of a nanoelement named memristor that possesses a number of useful properties, such as passivity, nonlinearity, high variability of parameters, nonvolatility, compactness. The efficiency of this electric element has led to the emergence of many memristor technologies based on different physical principles and, as a result, to the occurrence of different mathematical models describing these principles. A general approach to the modeling of memristive devices is represented. The essence is to construct a behavioral model that approximates nonlinear mapping of the input signal set into the output signal set. The polynomials of split signals, which are adaptive to the class of input signals, are used. This adaptation leads to the model’s simplification important in practice. Multi-dimensional polynomials of split signals are built for the rectifier bridge at harmonic input signals. The modeling error is estimated in the mean-square norm. It is shown that the accuracy of the modeling is increased in the case of using the piecewise polynomial with split signals.
Seismic Data Interpretation and Petrophysical Analysis of Kabirwala Area Tola (01) Well, Central Indus Basin, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Naveed , Khan Sikandar , Al-Shuhail Abdullatif
Published: March 2021

Well logging is a significant procedure that assists geophysicists and geologists with making predictions regarding boreholes and efficiently utilizing and optimizing the drilling process. The current study area is positioned in the Punjab Territory of Pakistan, and the geographic coordinates are 30020′10 N and 70043′30 E. The objective of the current research work was to interpret the subsurface structure and reservoir characteristics of the Kabirwala area Tola (01) well, which is located in the Punjab platform, Central Indus Basin, utilizing 2D seismic and well log data. Formation evaluation for hydrocarbon potential using the reservoir properties is performed in this study. For the marked zone of interest, the study also focuses on evaluating the average water saturation, average total porosity, average effective porosity, and net pay thickness. The results of the study show a spotted horizon stone with respect to time and depth as follows: Dunghan formation, 0.9 s and 1080.46 m; Cretaceous Samana Suk formation, 0.96 s and 1174.05 m; Datta formation, 1.08 s and 1400 m; and Warcha formation, 1.24 s and 1810 m. Based on the interpretation of well logs, the purpose of petrophysical analysis was to identify hydrocarbon-bearing zones in the study area. Gamma ray, spontaneous potential, resistivity, neutron, and density log data were utilized. The high zone present in the east–west part of the contour maps may be a possible location of hydrocarbon entrapment, which is further confirmed by the presence of the Tola-01 well.
Estimation of Elements’ Concentration in Air in Kosovo through Mosses as Biomonitors
Authors: Paçarizi Musaj , Stafilov Trajče , Šajn Robert , Tašev Krste , Sopaj Flamur
Published: March 2021

Elements atmospheric deposition was studied by mosses method in Kosovo. Mosses are a very useful tool for atmospheric deposition of elements monitoring, owing to their physiological and morphological characteristics. Moss samples were collected from 45 locations, they were cleaned from leaves, twigs and other materials, they were grinded, digested in a microwave system and analyzed by spectroscopy Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). A total of 25 elements concentration in collected moss samples was determined: Al, As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Sb, Sr, Ti, Tl, V and Zn. Extremely high concentrations of Pb and Zn were found in moss samples from the areas of Zveçan and Stanterg where the ore processing facilities are located, as well as the tailings landfill in Mitrovica which is nearby in the south, which reflects eminent air pollution. High concentrations of As and Cd were also measured in the same sampling points. The obtained results were processed by multivariate statistical analysis/factor analysis, which resulted in four factors, one anthropogenic and three geogenic or mixed geogenic-anthropogenic. The factor analysis revealed that the area with the highest atmospheric deposition of potentially toxic elements is the basin of Kosovo, from the north in Leposaviç to the south in Hani i Elezit because of the industrial plants laying in this line.
Biases of Global Tropopause Altitude Products in Reanalyses and Implications for Estimates of Tropospheric Column Ozone
Authors: Meng Lingyun , Liu Jane , Tarasick David W. , Li Yingjie
Published: March 2021

Accuracy of global tropopause altitude products from reanalyses is important to applications of the products, including the derivation of tropospheric column ozone (TCO). Here, monthly biases in lapse-rate tropopause pressure (PLRT) in two reanalyses, NCEP/NCAR and MERRA-2, and associated implications for estimating TCO are examined, based on global radiosonde observations over 1980–2017 at 689 stations. Our analysis suggests that the global mean PLRT is underestimated by −2.3 hPa in NCEP/NCAR and by −0.9 hPa in MERRA-2, mainly attributable to large negative biases around the subtropics (~20°–50°) in both hemispheres, with generally positive biases at other latitudes. Overall, NCEP/NCAR outperforms MERRA-2 in the Northern Hemisphere but underperforms MERRA-2 in the Southern Hemisphere. PLRT biases in the two reanalyses vary more evidently with latitude than with longitude. From winter to summer, the peaks of negative PLRT biases around the subtropics shift poleward by ~10°. Approximately, 70% of the reanalysis PLRT biases are within −10–10 hPa. Consequently, a negative (positive) PLRT bias induces a positive (negative) TCO bias. In absolute magnitude, the mean ozonesonde TCO bias attributable to PLRT biases is ~0.2, ~0.8 and ~1.2 Dobson Units (DU) if a PLRT bias is within 0–5, 10–15, and 10–15 hPa. Using a global ozone climatology, we estimate that the global mean bias in TCO induced by the PLRT biases in both reanalyses is positive, being 0.64 DU (or 2.2%) for NCEP/NCAR and 0.28 DU (or 1.1%) for MERRA-2.
Traditional Societal Practices Can Avert Poor Dietary Habits and Reduce Obesity Risk in Preschool Children of Mothers with Low Socioeconomic Status and Unemployment
Authors: Kristo Aleksandra S. , Sikalidis Angelos K. , Uzun Arzu
Published: March 2021

Healthy nutritional habits are of vital importance for good health and quality of life for all individuals in all life stages. Nutritional habits shaped in early childhood set the foundation for future dietary practices applied through lifespan, hence informing risk towards chronic diseases. A key contributor to child health is maternal impact. A healthy childhood status translates into increased lifespan, health, and life-quality, as well as better family and social interactions and improved academic performance. These conditions can contribute to a healthier and more vibrant workforce, and thus extend positive impact on the economic and overall development of a country. Evidence related to maternal impact on childhood dietary habits is limited in Turkey, an emerging economy with notable disparities and a significant segment (approximately one third) of its 83 million population under the age of 30. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the socioeconomic status (SES) of mothers on the dietary habits of their preschool children. A pilot cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving the mothers of 109 preschool children aged 4–6 years. Data on the nutritional status of children were collected through a food frequency questionnaire and a 24-h recall interview, while sociodemographic information was also collected, and statistical analyses conducted. An unexpected finding regarding the lack of association between the socioeconomic and employment status of mothers and the nutritional intakes of their children was observed. Interestingly, it appears that more traditional societal and nutritional practices typically undertaken in the case of lower SES, especially in more traditional settings like the case of Turkey, appear to extend a protective effect as per the nutritional habits and ensuing obesity risk in the case of children of women with lower SES. Another way to interpret our finding is that the difference in education and SES is not adequate to produce a significant effect in terms of children dietary intake. This is an interesting finding that warrants further study. Additionally, such studies serve to increase awareness about the importance of healthy nutritional practices in preschool children and the critical role of the mother on their nutritional status, particularly in the Turkish idiosyncratic setting.
Modeling of a Real-Life Industrial Reactor for Hydrogenation of Benzene Process
Authors: Szukiewicz Mirosław K. , Kaczmarski Krzysztof
Published: March 2021

A dynamic model of the hydrogenation of benzene to cyclohexane reaction in a real-life industrial reactor is elaborated. Transformations of the model leading to satisfactory results are presented and discussed. Operating conditions accepted in the simulations are identical to those observed in the chemical plant. Under those conditions, some components of the reaction mixture vanish, and the diffusion coefficients of the components vary along the reactor (they are strongly concentration-dependent). We came up with a final reactor model predicting with reasonable accuracy the reaction mixture’s outlet composition and temperature profile throughout the process. Additionally, the model enables the anticipation of catalyst activity and the remaining deactivated catalyst lifetime. Conclusions concerning reactor operation conditions resulting from the simulations are presented as well. Since the model provides deep insight into the process of simulating, it allows us to make knowledge-based decisions. It should be pointed out that improvements in the process run, related to operating conditions, or catalyst application, or both on account of the high scale of the process and its expected growth, will remarkably influence both the profits and environmental protection.
Effect of Long-Term 3D Spheroid Culture on WJ-MSC
Authors: Kaminska Agnieszka , Wedzinska Aleksandra , Kot Marta , Sarnowska Anna
Published: March 2021

The aim of our work was to develop a protocol enabling a derivation of mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) subpopulation with increased expression of pluripotent and neural genes. For this purpose we used a 3D spheroid culture system optimal for neural stem cells propagation. Although 2D culture conditions are typical and characteristic for MSC, under special treatment these cells can be cultured for a short time in 3D conditions. We examined the effects of prolonged 3D spheroid culture on MSC in hope to select cells with primitive features. Wharton Jelly derived MSC (WJ-MSC) were cultured in 3D neurosphere induction medium for about 20 days in vitro. Then, cells were transported to 2D conditions and confront to the initial population and population constantly cultured in 2D. 3D spheroids culture of WJ-MSC resulted in increased senescence, decreased stemness and proliferation. However long-termed 3D spheroid culture allowed for selection of cells exhibiting increased expression of early neural and SSEA4 markers what might indicate the survival of cell subpopulation with unique features.
CXCL12-Abundant Reticular (CAR) Cells Direct Megakaryocyte Protrusions across the Bone Marrow Sinusoid Wall
Authors: Wagner Nicole , Mott Kristina , Upcin Berin , Stegner David , Schulze Harald , Ergün Süleyman
Published: March 2021

Megakaryocytes (MKs) release platelets into the lumen of bone marrow (BM) sinusoids while remaining to reside within the BM. The morphogenetic events of this complex process are still not fully understood. We combined confocal laser scanning microscopy with transmission and serial block-face scanning electron microscopy followed by 3D-reconstruction on mouse BM tissue sections. These analyses revealed that MKs in close vicinity to BM sinusoid (BMS) wall first induce the lateral retraction of CXCL12-abundant reticular (CAR) cells (CAR), followed by basal lamina (BL) degradation enabling direct MK-sinusoidal endothelial cells (SECs) interaction. Subsequently, an endothelial engulfment starts that contains a large MK protrusion. Then, MK protrusions penetrate the SEC, transmigrate into the BMS lumen and form proplatelets that are in direct contact to the SEC surface. Furthermore, such processes are induced on several sites, as observed by 3D reconstructions. Our data demonstrate that MKs in interaction with CAR-cells actively induce BMS wall alterations, including CAR-cell retraction, BL degradation, and SEC engulfment containing a large MK protrusion. This results in SEC penetration enabling the migration of MK protrusion into the BMS lumen where proplatelets that are adherent to the luminal SEC surface are formed and contribute to platelet release into the blood circulation.
High Entropy Alloy Coatings and Technology
Authors: Sharma Ashutosh
Published: March 2021

Recently, the materials research community has seen a great increase in the development of multicomponent alloys, known as high entropy alloys (HEAs) with extraordinary properties and applications. In surface protection and engineering, diverse applications of HEAs are also being counted to benefit from their attractive performances in various environments. Thermally sprayed HEA coatings have outperformed conventional coating materials and have accelerated further advancement in this field. Therefore, this review article overviews the initial developments and outcomes in the field of HEA coatings. The authors have also categorized these HEA coatings in metallic, ceramic, and composite HEA coatings and discussed various developments in each of the categories in detail. Various fabrication strategies, properties, and important applications of these HEAs are highlighted. Further, various issues and future possibilities in this area for coatings development are recommended.
Nano- and Micro-Modification of Building Reinforcing Bars of Various Types
Authors: Rudenko Aleksandr , Biryukov Alexander , Kerzhentsev Oleg , Fediuk Roman , Vatin Nikolai , Vasilev Yuriy , Klyuev Sergey , Amran Mugahed , Szelag Maciej
Published: March 2021

Fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) rebar has drawbacks that can limit its scope, such as poor heat resistance, decrease its strength over time, and under the influence of substances with an alkaline medium, as well as the drawback of a low modulus of elasticity and deformation. Thus, the aim of the article is the nano- and micro-modification of building reinforcing bars using FRP rebars made of basalt fibers, which were impregnated with a thermosetting polymer binder with micro- or nanoparticles. The research discusses the major results of the developed composite reinforcement with the addition of micro- and nanosized particles. The microstructure of FRP has been studied using scanning electron microscopy. It was revealed that dispersion-strengthened polymer composites with the inclusion of microsilica (SiO2) and nanosized aluminum oxide (Al2O3) particles have a much higher modulus of elasticity and strength when compared with the original polymer materials. In the course of the experiment, we also studied the retained plastic properties that are characterized by the absence of fragility. However, it was found that the high strength of materials was attained with a particle size of 10–500 nm, evenly distributed in the matrix, with an average distance between particles of 100–500 nm. It was also exhibited that composite reinforcement had improved the adhesion characteristics in comparison with both steel reinforcement (1.5–2 times, depending on the diameter), and with traditional unmodified FRP rebar (about 1.5 times). Thus, the use of micro-/nanosized powders increased the limit of the possible temperature range for the use and application of polymeric materials by almost two times, up to 286–320 °C, which will undoubtedly expand the range of the technological applications of products made of these materials.
Mini-Review Discussing the Reliability and Efficiency of COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Doroftei Bogdan , Ciobica Alin , Ilie Ovidiu-Dumitru , Maftei Radu , Ilea Ciprian
Published: March 2021

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 is a novel strain of human beta-coronavirus that has produced over two million deaths and affected one hundred million individuals worldwide. As all the proposed drugs proved to be unstable, inducing side effects, the need to develop a vaccine crystallized in a short time. As a result, we searched the databases for articles in which the authors reported the efficacy and safety of the use of several vaccines vaccines by sex, age group, and frequency of adverse reactions. We identified a total of 19 relevant articles that were discussed throughout this manuscript. We concluded that from all eleven vaccines, three had an efficacy >90% (Pfizer–BioNTech (~95%), Moderna (~94%), and Sputnik V (~92%)) except for Oxford–AstraZeneca (~81%). However, Moderna, Sputnik V, and Oxford–AstraZeneca also alleviate severe adverse reactions, whereas in Pfizer–BioNTech this was not revealed. The remaining five (Convidicea (AD5-nCOV); Johnson & Johnson (Ad26.COV2.S); Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV); Covaxin (BBV152), and Sinovac (CoronaVac)) were discussed based on their immunogenicity, and safety reported by the recipients since only phases 1 and 2 were conducted without clear evidence published regarding their efficacy. CoviVac and EpiVacCorona have just been approved, which is why no published article could be found. All adverse events reported following the administration of one of the four vaccines ranged from mild to moderate; limited exceptions in which the patients either developed severe forms or died, because most effects were dose-dependent. It can be concluded that aforementioned vaccines are efficient and safe, regardless of age and sex, being well-tolerated by the recipients.
Prediction of Early Childhood Caries Based on Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Using Neural Networks
Authors: Zaorska Katarzyna , Szczapa Tomasz , Borysewicz-Lewicka Maria , Nowicki Michał , Gerreth Karolina
Published: March 2021

Background: Several genes and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been associated with early childhood caries. However, they are highly age- and population-dependent and the majority of existing caries prediction models are based on environmental and behavioral factors only and are scarce in infants. Methods: We examined 6 novel and previously analyzed 22 SNPs in the cohort of 95 Polish children (48 caries, 47 caries-free) aged 2–3 years. All polymorphisms were genotyped from DNA extracted from oral epithelium samples. We used Fisher’s exact test, receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and uni-/multi-variable logistic regression to test the association of SNPs with the disease, followed by the neural network (NN) analysis. Results: The logistic regression (LogReg) model showed 90% sensitivity and 96% specificity, overall accuracy of 93% (p < 0.0001), and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.970 (95% CI: 0.912–0.994; p < 0.0001). We found 90.9–98.4% and 73.6–87.2% prediction accuracy in the test and validation predictions, respectively. The strongest predictors were: AMELX_rs17878486 and TUFT1_rs2337360 (in both LogReg and NN), MMP16_rs1042937 (in NN) and ENAM_rs12640848 (in LogReg). Conclusions: Neural network prediction model might be a substantial tool for screening/early preventive treatment of patients at high risk of caries development in the early childhood. The knowledge of potential risk status could allow early targeted training in oral hygiene and modifications of eating habits.
A Missense Mutation in the KLF7 Gene Is a Potential Candidate Variant for Congenital Deafness in Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs
Authors: Xu Fangzheng , Shan Shuwen , Sommerlad Susan , Seddon Jennifer M. , Brenig Bertram
Published: March 2021

Congenital deafness is prevalent among modern dog breeds, including Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs (ASCD). However, in ASCD, no causative gene has been identified so far. Therefore, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) of affected and normal individuals. For GWAS, 3 bilateral deaf ASCDs, 43 herding dogs, and one unaffected ASCD were used, resulting in 13 significantly associated loci on 6 chromosomes, i.e., CFA3, 8, 17, 23, 28, and 37. CFA37 harbored a region with the most significant association (−log10(9.54 × 10−21) = 20.02) as well as 7 of the 13 associated loci. For whole genome sequencing, the same three affected ASCDs and one unaffected ASCD were used. The WGS data were compared with 722 canine controls and filtered for protein coding and non-synonymous variants, resulting in four missense variants present only in the affected dogs. Using effect prediction tools, two variants remained with predicted deleterious effects within the Heart development protein with EGF like domains 1 (HEG1) gene (NC_006615.3: g.28028412G>C; XP_022269716.1: p.His531Asp) and Kruppel-like factor 7 (KLF7) gene (NC_006619.3: g.15562684G>A; XP_022270984.1: p.Leu173Phe). Due to its function as a regulator in heart and vessel formation and cardiovascular development, HEG1 was excluded as a candidate gene. On the other hand, KLF7 plays a crucial role in the nervous system, is expressed in the otic placode, and is reported to be involved in inner ear development. 55 additional ASCD samples (28 deaf and 27 normal hearing dogs) were genotyped for the KLF7 variant, and the variant remained significantly associated with deafness in ASCD (p = 0.014). Furthermore, 24 dogs with heterozygous or homozygous mutations were detected, including 18 deaf dogs. The penetrance was calculated to be 0.75, which is in agreement with previous reports. In conclusion, KLF7 is a promising candidate gene causative for ASCD deafness.
Robust Fractional-Order Control Using a Decoupled Pitch and Roll Actuation Strategy for the I-Support Soft Robot
Authors: Muñoz Jorge , Piqué Francesco , A. Monje Concepción , Falotico Egidio
Published: March 2021

Tip control is a current open issue in soft robotics; therefore, it has received a good amount of attention in recent years. The desirable soft characteristics of these robots turn a well-solved problem in classic robotics, like the end-effector kinematics and dynamics, into a challenging problem. The high redundancy condition of these robots hinders classical solutions, resulting in controllers with very high computational costs. In this paper, a simplification is proposed in the actuation setup of the I-Support soft robot, allowing the use of simple strategies for tip inclination control. In order to verify the proposed approach, inclination step input and trajectory-tracking experiments were performed on a single module of the I-Support robot, resulting in zero output error in all cases, including those where the system was exposed to disturbances. The comparative results of the proposed controllers, a proportional integral derivative (PID) and a fractional order robust (FOPI) controller, validate the feasibility of the proposed approach, showing a clear advantage in the use of the fractional robust controller for the tip inclination control of the I-Support robot compared to the integer order controller.
Sex-Specific Autonomic Responses to Acute Resistance Exercise
Authors: Humm Stacie M. , Erb Emily K. , Tagesen Emily C. , Kingsley J. Derek
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: Acute resistance exercise (RE) reduces vagal modulation and increases sympathovagal balance, which increases the risk for arrythmias. Few studies have examined sex differences in autonomic modulation after acute RE. The purpose of this investigation was to examine sex-specific responses to acute RE on autonomic modulation. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one resistance-trained individuals (men n = 11, women n = 10) between the ages of 19 and 25 y were analyzed for autonomic modulation in response to acute RE and a control (CON). Measures of autonomic modulation were collected at rest, 15 (R15), and 30 (R30) min following both conditions. Heart rate (HR), log transformed root mean square of successive differences (lnRMSSD), total power (lnTP), low-frequency power (lnLF), high-frequency power (lnHF), sample entropy (SampEn), and Lempel-Ziv entropy (LZEn) were measured at all time points. A three-way repeated analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze sex (men, women) across condition (RE, CON) and time (Rest, R15, R30). Results: The results are similar for all heart rate variability (HRV) variables at rest for both conditions (RE, CON). SampEn was significantly higher in men compared to women at rest for both conditions (p = 0.03), with no differences in LZEn (p > 0.05). There were no significant (p > 0.05) three-way interactions on any variables. Condition by time interactions demonstrated that both sexes increase in HR (p = 0.0001) and lnLF/HF ratio (p = 0.001), but decreases in lnRMSSD (p = 0.0001), lnTP (p < 0.0001), lnLF (p < 0.0001), lnHF (p = 0.0001), and LZEn (p = 0.009) at R15 and R30 compared to rest following acute RE and were different from CON. Condition by time interaction (p = 0.017) demonstrated that SampEn was attenuated at R15 compared to rest, and the CON, but not R30 following acute RE. Conclusion: Although SampEn is more complex at rest in men compared to women, autonomic modulation responses between sexes following acute RE appear to be similar.
Perforated Plate for Ballistic Protection—A Review
Authors: Balos Sebastian , Howard Daniel , Brezulianu Adrian , Labus Zlatanović Danka
Published: March 2021

In recent years, the interest of the scientific community in perforated plates for ballistic protection has increased. Perforated plates do not represent protection by themselves, rather, they are used in the armour systems of armoured vehicles, in conjunction with base armour, since they are intended to induce bend stresses, where a penetrating core fracture occurs. The fragments are subsequently stopped by base armoured vehicle armour. Although for the first time used several decades ago, perforated plates are found to be attractive even today. The main reason is the combination of very convenient properties. Besides high mass effectiveness, they possess a high multi-impact resistance, since their perforations arrest cracks. Therefore, a relatively wide array of materials is suitable for perforated plate fabrication, ranging from alloy steel to some types of cast iron. Being made of metallic materials, raw material costs are relatively low compared to ceramics or composite materials, making them very attractive for present and future armoured vehicles. Finally, armour system consisting of a perforated plate and base plate at some distance, reduce the effectiveness of both shaped charge jets and act as blast mitigators.
Degradation of Titanium Sintered with Magnesium: Effect of Hydrogen Uptake
Authors: Garamus Vasil M. , Limberg Wolfgang , Serdechnova Maria , Mei Di , Lamaka Sviatlana V. , Ebel Thomas , Willumeit-Römer Regine
Published: March 2021

Multifunctional materials based on a combination of permanent and degradable metals open new perspectives for medical implants combining osseoconductivity and drug-delivery functions which can significantly decrease the number of implants’ revision. In this work, hybrid magnesium-titanium materials were produced via sintering, and the properties of the permanent titanium component before and after the degradation of the temporary magnesium part were evaluated. The changes of chemical composition and mechanical parameters were determined. Loading of hydrogen into the titanium part at room temperature was observed, which deteriorated the mechanical characteristics but could also simultaneously improve the biocompatibility of the permanent titanium implant. The control of degradation of the magnesium part and the modification of the titanium part are required for the development of partly degradable hybrid implants.
High Bending Strength Hypereutectic Al-22Si-0.2Fe-0.1Cu-Re Alloy Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Yin Chunyue , Lu Zhehao , Wei Xianshun , Yan Biao , Yan Pengfei
Published: March 2021

The objective of the study is to investigate the corresponding microstructure and mechanical properties, especially bending strength, of the hypereutectic Al-Si alloy processed by selective laser melting (SLM). Almost dense Al-22Si-0.2Fe-0.1Cu-Re alloy is fabricated from a novel type of powder materials with optimized processing parameters. Phase analysis of such Al-22Si-0.2Fe-0.1Cu-Re alloy shows that the solubility of Si in Al matrix increases significantly. The fine microstructure can be observed, divided into three zones: fine zones, coarse zones, and heat-affected zones (HAZs). Fine zones are directly generated from the liquid phase with the characteristic of petaloid structures and bulk Al-Si eutectic. Due to the fine microstructure induced by the rapid cooling rate of SLM, the primary silicon presents a minimum average size of ~0.5 μm in fine zones, significantly smaller than that in the conventional produced hypereutectic samples. Moreover, the maximum value of Vickers hardness reaches ~170 HV0.2, and bending strength increases to 687.70 MPa for the as-built Al-22Si-0.2Fe-0.1Cu-Re alloys parts, which is much higher than that of cast counterparts. The formation mechanism of this fine microstructure and the enhancement reasons of bending strength are also discussed.
Healthcare Provider Attitudes toward the Newly Developed COVID-19 Vaccine: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ahmed Gasmelseed , Almoosa Zainab , Mohamed Dalia , Rapal Janepple , Minguez Ofelia , Abu Khurma Issam , Alnems Ayman , Al Mutair Abbas
Published: March 2021

Background: During the long wait and the global anxiety for a vaccine against COVID-19, impressively high-safety and effective vaccines were invented by multiple pharmaceutical companies. Aim: We aimed to assess the attitudes of healthcare providers and evaluate their intention to advocate for the vaccine. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary private hospital where an electronic survey was distributed among healthcare providers (HCPs). The survey contained two sections: socio-demographic characteristics and Likert-scale perception, with 72% internal consistency. Results: The response rate to the email survey was 37% (n = 236). In addition, 169 (71.6%) of respondents were women, with more than half (134, 56.8%) aged ≤35 years. A total of 110 (46.6%) had over 10 years of experience, and most of them were nurses (146, 62%). Univariate analysis revealed that older participants significantly accepted and advocated for the new vaccine more than the younger ones. In the multivariate analysis, men were significantly more likely than women to accept and advocate for the new vaccine, as were those with chronic illnesses. Participants with allergy were significantly less likely to accept the vaccine than others. odds ratio (OR) and p-values were 2.5, 0.003; 2.3, 0.04; and 0.4, 0.01, respectively. Conclusion: The acceptance rate for the newly-developed COVID-19 vaccines was average among HCPs. Sex, age, presence of chronic illnesses, and allergy were significant predictors of accepting the vaccine.
Performance Evaluation of a Novel Biosourced Co-Processed Excipient in Direct Compression and Drug Release
Authors: Benabbas Rihab , Sanchez-Ballester Noelia M. , Aubert Adrien , Sharkawi Tahmer , Bataille Bernard , Soulairol Ian
Published: March 2021

This study exposes the potential usefulness of a new co-processed excipient, composed of alginic acid and microcrystalline cellulose (Cop AA-MCC), for the preparation of immediate drug release tablets by direct compression. Evaluation of the physical and mechanical properties as well as the disintegration behavior of Cop AA-MCC in comparison to commercial co-processed excipients (Cellactose®, Ludipress®, Prosolv® SMCC HD90 and Prosolv® ODT) and to the physical mixture of the native excipients (MCC and AA), was carried out. The obtained results illustrate the good performance of Cop AA-MCC in terms of powder flowability, tablet tensile strength, compressibility, and disintegration time. Although, this new co-processed excipient showed a slightly high lubricant sensitivity, which was explained by its more plastic than fragmentary deformation behavior, it presented a low lubricant requirement due to the remarkably low ejection force observed during compression. Compression speed and dwell time seemed not to affect significantly the tabletability of Cop AA-MCC. The study exposed evenly the performance of Cop AA-MCC compared to Prosolv® ODT, in terms of tabletability and dissolution rate of Melatonin. Cop AA-MCC presented comparable hardness, lower dilution potential, higher lubricant sensitivity, lower ejection force, and faster Melatonin’s release time than Prosolv® ODT. In summary, Cop AA-MCC exhibited interesting physical, mechanical, and biopharmaceutical properties, which demonstrate its concurrence to commercially available co-processed excipients. Furthermore, the simplicity of its composition and the scalability of its elaboration makes this multifunctional excipient highly recommended for direct compression.
Christian von Mechel’s Reconstructive Drawings of the Second “Iron Hand” of Franconian Knight Gottfried (Götz) von Berlichingen (1480–1562)
Authors: Otte Andreas
Published: March 2021

In our recent review [...]
Ultrasonographic Findings in Common Thyroid and Parathyroid Disorders—Advantages of Real Time Observation by the Endocrinologist with their Own Ultrasound Machine
Authors: Wall Jack , Champion Bernard , El-Kaissi Samer , Lahooti Hooshang
Published: March 2021

In this review we discuss the significance of the main ultrasonographic features of common thyroid and parathyroid conditions, with a focus on the advantages of real time observation. The thyroid specialist, defined as an endocrinologist with a major interest in thyroid disorders and access to a portable ultrasound machine, can correlate what they see with the thyroid blood test results and clinical findings in a way that is not available to the general endocrinologist who relies on the interpretation by the consultant radiologist of ultrasound images prepared by a technician. We also discuss the significance of the small, very bright, intra nodular microcalcifications found in benign colloid nodules, which we call “colloid spots” and the difference between these and the 3–4 mm soft microcalcifications that are 90% specific for papillary thyroid cancer and provide a new system for staging the inflammatory changes in Hashimoto thyroiditis, as observed on ultrasonography.
Law of the Strongest? A Global Approach of Access to Law Studies and Its Social and Professional Impact in British India (1850s–1940s)
Authors: Legrandjacques Sara
Published: March 2021

This paper examines how access to law studies in British India challenged social stratifications within the colony, from the 1850s up to the 1940s. It highlights the impact of educational trajectories—colonial, imperial and global—on social positions and professional careers. Universities in British India have included faculties of law since the foundation of the first three universities in 1857. Although numerous native students enrolled at these Indian institutions, some of them chose to pursue their legal training in the imperial metropole. Being admitted into an Inn of Court, they could consequently become barristers, a title that was not available for holders of an Indian degree. This dual system differentiated degree-holders, complexifying the colonial hierarchy in a way that was sometimes denounced by both the colonized and the imperial authorities. Last but not least, access to higher education also impacted gendered identities: academic migration at times allowed some Indian women to graduate in Law but these experiences remained quite exceptional until the end of the Second Word War.
Natural and Anthropogenic Geochemical Tracers to Investigate Residence Times and Groundwater–Surface-Water Interactions in an Urban Alluvial Aquifer
Authors: Newman Connor P. , Paschke Suzanne S. , Keith Gabrielle
Published: March 2021

A multi-component geochemical dataset was collected from groundwater and surface-water bodies associated with the urban Fountain Creek alluvial aquifer, Colorado, USA, to facilitate analysis of recharge sources, geochemical interactions, and groundwater-residence times. Results indicate that groundwater can be separated into three distinct geochemical zones based on location within the flow system and proximity to surface water, and these zones can be used to infer sources of recharge and groundwater movement through the aquifer. Rare-earth-element concentrations and detections of wastewater-indicator compounds indicate the presence of effluent from wastewater-treatment plants in both groundwater and surface water. Effluent presence in groundwater indicates that streams in the area lose to groundwater in some seasons and are a source of focused groundwater recharge. Distributions of pharmaceuticals and wastewater-indicator compounds also inform an understanding of groundwater–surface-water interactions. Noble-gas isotopes corroborate rare-earth-element data in indicating geochemical evolution within the aquifer from recharge area to discharge area and qualitatively indicate variable groundwater-residence times and mixing with pre-modern groundwater. Quantitative groundwater-residence times calculated from 3H/3He, SF6, and lumped-parameter modeling generally are less than 20 years, but the presence of mixing with older groundwater of an unknown age is also indicated at selected locations. Future investigations would benefit by including groundwater-age tracers suited to quantification of mixing for both young (years to decades) and old (centuries and millennia) groundwater. This multi-faceted analysis facilitated development of a conceptual model for the investigated groundwater-flow system and illustrates the application of an encompassing suite of analytes in exploring hydrologic and geochemical interactions in complex systems.