bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of population input functions for reduced scan duration whole-body Patlak 18F-FDG PET imaging
Authors: van Sluis Joyce , Yaqub Maqsood , Brouwers Adrienne H. , Dierckx Rudi A. J. O. , Noordzij Walter , Boellaard Ronald
Published: February 2021

Whole-body Patlak images can be obtained from an acquisition of first 6 min of dynamic imaging over the heart to obtain the arterial input function (IF), followed by multiple whole-body sweeps up to 60 min pi. The use of a population-averaged IF (PIF) could exclude the first dynamic scan and minimize whole-body sweeps to 30–60 min pi. Here, the effects of (incorrect) PIFs on the accuracy of the proposed Patlak method were assessed. In addition, the extent of mitigating these biases through rescaling of the PIF to image-derived IF values at 30–60 min pi was evaluated.

Methods

Using a representative IF and rate constants from the literature, various tumour time-activity curves (TACs) were simulated. Variations included multiplication of the IF with a positive and negative gradual linear bias over 60 min of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25% (generating TACs using an IF different from the PIF); use of rate constants (K1, k3, and both K1 and k2) multiplied by 2, 1.5, and 0.75; and addition of noise (μ = 0 and σ = 5, 10 and 15%). Subsequent Patlak analysis using the original IF (representing the PIF) was used to obtain the influx constant (Ki) for the differently simulated TACs. Next, the PIF was scaled towards the (simulated) IF value using the 30–60-min pi time interval, simulating scaling of the PIF to image-derived values. Influence of variabilities in IF and rate constants, and rescaling the PIF on bias in Ki was evaluated.

Results

Percentage bias in Ki observed using simulated modified IFs varied from − 16 to 16% depending on the simulated amplitude and direction of the IF modifications. Subsequent scaling of the PIF reduced these Ki biases in most cases (287 out of 290) to < 5%.

Conclusions

Simulations suggest that scaling of a (possibly incorrect) PIF to IF values seen in whole-body dynamic imaging from 30 to 60 min pi can provide accurate Ki estimates. Consequently, dynamic Patlak imaging protocols may be performed for 30–60 min pi making whole-body Patlak imaging clinically feasible.
White oak (Quercus fabri Hance) regenerated stump sprouts show few senescence symptoms during 40 years of growth in a natural forest
Authors: Sun Honggang , Wu Sisheng , Wu Liwen
Published: February 2021

Background

The relationship between physiological age of parental trees and lifespan of clonal offspring is unclear. White oak (Quercus fabri Hance) has a high sprouting capability after harvest, with the regenerated sprouts being typical clonal individuals. To determine whether regenerated sprouts undergo rapid senescence compared with the parent, the senescence levels of 5-, 10-, 20- and 40-year-old regenerated stump sprouts in a natural forest were evaluated. The antioxidative abilities and transcriptomes in these leaves and shoots were compared.

Results

Older regenerated sprouts still had robust antioxidative systems, with 40-year-old sprouts having lower peroxidation product levels but similar antioxidative enzyme activity levels compared with 5-year-old sprouts. Older leaves had greater transcriptional activities in pathways related to cell growth and division than younger leaves. However, older sprouts had some unhealthy characteristics, such as increased base excision repair levels and upregulated phagosome, proteasome and glycerophospholipid metabolism pathways in 40-year-old leaves, which indicates that DNA damage and tissue remodeling occurred more frequently than in younger leaves. Additionally, plant-pathogen interactions and MAPK signals pathways were upregulated in older shoots, which indicates that older shoots suffered from more pathogen-related biotic stress.

Conclusions

The 40-year-old sprouts still had the same vitality level as the 5-year-old sprouts, although the former had some unhealthy characteristics. We conclude that during their first 40 years of growth, regenerated stump sprouts do not begin to senesce, and that physiological age of parental trees does not significantly affect the lifespan of its clonal offspring.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for systemic sclerosis: Brazilian experience
Authors: Henrique-Neto Álvaro , Vasconcelos Marianna Yumi Kawashima , Dias Juliana Bernardes Elias , de Moraes Daniela Aparecida , Gonçalves Maynara Santana , Zanin-Silva Djúlio César , Zucoloto Talita Graminha , de Oliveira Marília de Fátima Cirioli , Dotoli Giuliana Martinelli , Weffort Luiz Fernando , Leopoldo Vanessa Cristina , Oliveira Maria Carolina
Published: February 2021

Background

In the past 20 years, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been investigated as treatment for systemic sclerosis (SSc). The goal of HSCT is to eradicate the autoreactive immune system, which is replaced by a new immune repertoire with long-lasting regulation and tolerance to autoantigens. Here, we describe the clinical outcomes of severe and refractory SSc patients that underwent HSCT at a single Brazilian center.

Patients and methods

This is a longitudinal and retrospective study, including 70 adult SSc patients, with an established diagnosis of SSc, and who underwent autologous HSCT from 2009 to 2016. The procedure included harvesting and cryopreservation of autologous hematopoietic progenitor cells, followed by administration of an immunoablative regimen and subsequent infusion of the previously collected cells. Patients were evaluated immediately before transplantation, at 6 months and then yearly until at least 5-years of post-transplantation follow-up. At each evaluation time point, patients underwent clinical examination, including modified Rodnan’s skin score (mRSS) assessment, echocardiography, high-resolution computed tomography of the lungs and pulmonary function.

Results

Median (range) age was 35.9 (19–59), with 57 (81.4%) female and median (range) non-Raynaud’s disease duration of 2 (1–7) years. Before transplantation, 96% of the patients had diffuse skin involvement, 84.2%, interstitial lung disease and 67%, positive anti-topoisomerase I antibodies. Skin involvement significantly improved, with a decline in mRSS at all post-transplantation time points until at least 5-years of follow-up. When patients with pre-HSCT interstitial lung disease were analyzed, there was an improvement in pulmonary function (forced vital capacity and diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide) over the 5-year follow-up. Overall survival was 81% and progression-free survival was 70.5% at 8-years after HSCT. Three patients died due to transplant-related toxicity, 9 patients died over follow-up due to disease reactivation and one patient died due to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

Conclusions

Autologous hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation improves skin and interstitial lung involvement. These results are in line with the international experience and support HSCT as a viable therapeutic alternative for patients with severe and progressive systemic sclerosis.
Relation between grades of acquired nasopharyngeal stenosis and severity of obstructive sleep apnea symptoms
Authors: El-Anwar Mohammad Waheed , Hendawy Ehsan , Eesa Mohamed
Published: February 2021

Background

Nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS) is a rare condition defined as the obstruction of the communication between the oropharynx and nasopharynx owing to scar contracture of the soft palate, tonsillar pillars, and posterior pharyngeal wall. NPS could be primary (attributed to a disease process such as rhinoscleroma) or secondary caused by prior surgery. In this study, we discuss the clinical manifestation of the acquired nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS) and to investigate if there is a relation between the grade of the acquired NPS and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and patients’ symptoms. So, this cross-sectional study was conducted on patients who had post-surgical NPS of different grades. Then, the severity of snoring ± OSA and VAS of symptoms in those patients was assessed in different grades of the NPS, and the results were also statistically compared.

Results

Within the included 22 patients, there were no statistical differences between grade 1 and in grade 2 as regards age (p = 0.0619) or sex (p = 0.21137). The mean AHI was significantly more (p = 0.004) in grade 2 NPS than grade 1 NPS. The VAS of difficult nasal breathing and dysphagia were significantly worse (p < 0.0001) in grade 2 NPS than in grade 1, while the VAS of snoring did not differ significantly (p = 0.3466) between grade 1 and grade 2 NPS.

Conclusion

Grade 2 NPS leads to significantly more severe AHI, dysphagia, and difficult nasal breathing than grade 1 NPS. But the difference in the grade of NPS did not cause differences in the snoring intensity.
Effect of bonding or unbonding on seismic behavior of bridge elastomeric bearings: lessons learned from past earthquakes in China and Japan and inspirations for future design
Authors: Xiang Nailiang , Goto Yoshiaki , Alam M. Shahria , Li Jianzhong
Published: February 2021

Economical laminated elastomeric bearings are well-adopted options for load transmission components of bridges from superstructure to substructure. In most cases, the design of such elastomeric bearings primarily depends on the requirements from service-level conditions such as superstructure thermal movements, with little consideration of extreme loads like earthquakes. However, bridge elastomeric bearings are very likely to be subjected to earthquake hazards, particularly for bridges located in high seismic regions. This study presents an overview of the observed typical damages of bridge elastomeric bearings in the past major earthquakes mainly in China and Japan. Comparisons of different damage patterns are conducted based on the different installations of bridge elastomeric bearings (bonding or un-bonding). The effect of bearing installation methods on the overall seismic behavior of bridges is also discussed. A desirable installation method for bridge elastomeric bearings against strong earthquake loads is recommended, which is expected to overcome the critical limitations of current design practice.
Remote consultations in prison mental healthcare in England: impacts of COVID-19
Authors: Hewson Thomas , Robinson Louise , Khalifa Najat , Hard Jake , Shaw Jennifer
Published: February 2021

Telemedicine has become increasingly used by prison mental health services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. In this editorial, we explore the benefits and risks of the remote provision of forensic mental healthcare, with consideration of the clinical, financial, ethical and legal consequences.
Addition of Lenalidomide to R-CHOP Improves Outcomes in Newly Diagnosed Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in a Randomized Phase II US Intergroup Study ECOG-ACRIN E1412
Authors: Nowakowski Grzegorz S. , Hong Fangxin , Scott David W. , Macon William R. , King Rebecca L. , Habermann Thomas M. , Wagner-Johnston Nina , Casulo Carla , Wade James L. , Nagargoje Gauri G. , Reynolds C. M. , Cohen Jonathon B. , Khan Nadia , Amengual Jennifer E. , Richards Kristy L. , Little R. F. , Leonard John P. , Friedberg Jonathan W. , Kostakoglu Lale , Kahl Brad S. , Witzig Thomas E.
Published: February 2021

PURPOSE

Lenalidomide combined with rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CHOP) (R2CHOP) in untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has shown promising activity, particularly in the activated B-cell–like (ABC) subtype. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG)-ACRIN trial E1412 was a randomized phase II study comparing R2CHOP versus R-CHOP in untreated DLBCL.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with newly diagnosed DLBCL, stage II bulky-IV disease, International Prognostic Index (IPI) ≥ 2, and ECOG performance status ≤ 2 were eligible and randomly assigned 1:1 to R2CHOP versus R-CHOP for six cycles. Tumors were analyzed using the NanoString Lymph2Cx for cell of origin. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS) in all patients with the co-primary end point of PFS in ABC-DLBCL. Secondary end points included overall response rate (ORR), complete response (CR) rate, and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Three hundred forty-nine patients were enrolled; 280 patients (145 R2CHOP and 135 R-CHOP) were evaluable: 94 were ABC-DLBCL, 122 germinal center B-cell–like-DLBCL, 18 unclassifiable, and 46 unknowns. Baseline characteristics were well-balanced between arms, and the median age was 66 (range, 24-92); 70% of patients had stage IV disease; 34%, 43%, and 24% had IPI 2, 3, and 4 or 5, respectively. Myelosuppression was more common in the R2CHOP arm. The ORR and CR rate were 92% and 68% in R-CHOP and 97% ( P = .06) and 73% ( P = .43) in the R2CHOP arm, respectively. The median follow-up was 3.0 years; R2CHOP was associated with a 34% reduction in risk of progression or death versus R-CHOP (hazard ratio [HR], 0.66 95% CI, 0.43 to 1.01) and 3-year PFS of 73% versus 61%, one-sided P = .03, and an improvement in OS (83% and 75% at 3 years; HR, 0.67; one-sided P = .05). The PFS HR for R2CHOP was 0.67 for ABC-DLBCL, one-sided P = .1.

CONCLUSION

In this signal-seeking study, the addition of lenalidomide to R-CHOP (R2CHOP) improved outcomes in newly diagnosed DLBCL including patients with ABC-DLBCL.
Downstream Revenue Generated by a Cancer Genetic Counselor
Authors: Mauer Caitlin B. , Reys Brian D. , Hall Reece E. , Campbell Connor L. , Pirzadeh-Miller Sara M.
Published: February 2021

PURPOSE

Enhanced cancer risk reduction measures are recommended for patients with hereditary predispositions to cancer. Providing these services within a healthcare institution (HI) generates downstream revenue (DSR). We evaluated the DSR for our institution after patients were identified to have a pathogenic variant by a genetic counselor (GC).

METHODS

Retrospective chart review identified patients with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome (LS) seen in the UT Southwestern Medical Center Cancer Genetics Clinic between November 1, 2009, and January 31, 2019. All billable encounters were recorded. Total revenue and work relative value units were calculated after patients met with a GC.

RESULTS

Four hundred twenty-five patients with HBOC and LS had financial data available for analysis. After GC visit, DSR totaled $32,798,000 in US dollars (USD). Patients unaffected with cancer (n = 176) generated $8,453,000 (USD). Patients (n = 96) whose first visit to the institution were for GC consultation (naïve patients) generated $5,933,000 (USD). Unaffected, naïve patients (n = 64) generated $3,190,000 (USD) in DSR. The 425 total patients generated 73,957 work relative value units at the institution after their appointment with a GC.

CONCLUSION

GCs bring in substantial DSR for their HI by identifying patients with HBOC or LS. Institution naïve and unaffected patients who continue care at the institution provide additional opportunities to generate DSR. If applied to additional pathogenic variant carriers, GCs can further increase DSR for an HI.
Total and Central Adiposity Are Associated With Age at Gonadarche and Incidence of Precocious Gonadarche in Boys
Authors: Pereira Ana , Busch Alexander S , Solares Fernanda , Baier Ingrid , Corvalan Camila , Mericq Veronica
Published: February 2021

Context

A close link between body mass index (BMI) and female pubertal onset is well established. However, observations in boys remain inconclusive.

Objective

We aim to determine whether BMI as well as total and central adiposity in prepubertal Chilean boys is associated with pubertal timing.

Methods

We performed a longitudinal study in which 494 boys from the Growth and Obesity Chilean Cohort Study were followed starting from birth and throughout puberty, including 5 prepubertal visits. The main outcome measures included anthropometric data and semi-annual clinical pubertal staging. The association between BMI, obesity (BMI standard deviation score [SDS] ≥ 2) and central adiposity (waist circumference ≥ 90th centile) with precocious puberty and age at gonadarche was analyzed using survival- and logistic regression models.

Results

BMI, prevalence of total obesity, and central obesity increased throughout childhood. Among the study population, 45 boys entered puberty before the age of 9 years (9.1%). Obesity at 4 to 7 years and childhood mean BMI SDS were significantly associated with precocious gonadarche. Mean age at testicular enlargement (≥4 mL), was 11.0 years (95% CI, 10.9-11.1) and was inversely associated with BMI SDS, waist circumference, and percentage fat mass in almost all prepubertal visits. Age at testicular enlargement in normal weight, overweight, and obese boys was 11.2 (11.0-11.3), 10.9 (10.6-11.1) and 10.7 (10.4-11.1) years, respectively.

Conclusion

Our observation supports the association of BMI SDS and obesity with pubertal timing and precocious gonadarche in boys, respectively. Early intervention controlling the obesity epidemic could be useful in decreasing detrimental impact on later health.
Predictors for Remission after Transsphenoidal Surgery in Acromegaly: A Dutch Multicenter Study
Authors: Coopmans Eva C , Postma Mark R , Wolters Thalijn L C , van Meyel Sebastiaan W F , Netea-Maier Romana , van Beek André P , Neggers Sebastian J C M M
Published: February 2021

Context

Transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) is the primary treatment of choice in acromegaly. It is important to identify patients in whom surgical cure is not attainable at an early stage, both to inform patients on expected treatment outcome and to select those who are more likely to need additional therapy.

Objective

To identify predictors for remission after TSS in acromegaly.

Methods

Large multicenter study with retrospective data collection from 3 tertiary neurosurgical referral centers in The Netherlands. We analyzed clinical data since 2000 from 3 cohorts (Groningen, Nijmegen, and Rotterdam, total n = 282). Multivariate regression models were used to identify predictors of early biochemical remission (12 weeks to 1 year postoperatively) according to the 2010 consensus criteria, long-term remission (age- and sex-normalized insulin-like growth factor 1 [IGF-1] and the absence of postoperative treatment until last follow-up), and relative IGF-1 and growth hormone [GH] reduction.

Results

A larger maximum tumor diameter (odds ratio [OR] 0.91, 95% CI 0.87-0.96, P ≤ .0001) was associated with a lower chance of early biochemical remission. A larger maximum tumor diameter (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.89-0.97, P = .0022) and a higher random GH concentration at diagnosis (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99, P = .0053) were associated with a lower chance of long-term remission.

Conclusion

Maximum tumor diameter and random GH concentration at diagnosis are the best predictors for remission after TSS in acromegaly.
Mosaic CRISPR-stop enables rapid phenotyping of nonsense mutations in essential genes
Authors: Wang Guangqin , Li Chao , He Shunji , Liu Zhiyong
Published: February 2021

CRISPR-stop converts protein-coding sequences into stop codons, which, in the appropriate location, results in a null allele. CRISPR-stop induction in one-cell-stage zygotes generates Founder 0 (F0) mice that are homozygous mutants; this avoids mouse breeding and serves as a rapid screening approach for nonlethal genes. However, loss of function of 25% of mammalian genes causes early lethality. Here, we induced CRISPR-stop in one of the two blastomeres of the zygote, a method we name mosaic CRISPR-stop, to produce mosaic Atoh1 and Sox10 F0 mice; these mice not only survived longer than regular Atoh1/Sox10 knockout mice but also displayed their recognized cochlear phenotypes. Moreover, by using mosaic CRISPR-stop, we uncovered a previously unknown role of another lethal gene, Rbm24, in the survival of cochlear outer hair cells (OHCs), and we further validated the importance of Rbm24 in OHCs by using our Rbm24 conditional knockout model. Together, our results demonstrated that mosaic CRISPR-stop is reliable and rapid, and we believe this method will facilitate rapid genetic screening of developmentally lethal genes in the mouse inner ear and also in other organs.
Fueling the cytoskeleton – links between cell metabolism and actin remodeling
Authors: DeWane Gillian , Salvi Alicia M. , DeMali Kris A.
Published: February 2021

Attention has long focused on the actin cytoskeleton as a unit capable of organizing into ensembles that control cell shape, polarity, migration and the establishment of intercellular contacts that support tissue architecture. However, these investigations do not consider observations made over 40 years ago that the actin cytoskeleton directly binds metabolic enzymes, or emerging evidence suggesting that the rearrangement and assembly of the actin cytoskeleton is a major energetic drain. This Review examines recent studies probing how cells adjust their metabolism to provide the energy necessary for cytoskeletal remodeling that occurs during cell migration, epithelial to mesenchymal transitions, and the cellular response to external forces. These studies have revealed that mechanotransduction, cell migration, and epithelial to mesenchymal transitions are accompanied by alterations in glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation. These metabolic changes provide energy to support the actin cytoskeletal rearrangements necessary to allow cells to assemble the branched actin networks required for cell movement and epithelial to mesenchymal transitions and the large actin bundles necessary for cells to withstand forces. In this Review, we discuss the emerging evidence suggesting that the regulation of these events is highly complex with metabolism affecting the actin cytoskeleton and vice versa.
Emerging functions of cytoskeletal proteins in immune diseases
Authors: Tur-Gracia Sara , Martinez-Quiles Narcisa
Published: February 2021

Immune cells are especially dependent on the proper functioning of the actin cytoskeleton, and both innate and adaptive responses rely on it. Leukocytes need to adhere not only to substrates but also to cells in order to form synapses that pass on instructions or kill infected cells. Neutrophils literally squeeze their cell body during blood extravasation and efficiently migrate to the inflammatory focus. Moreover, the development of immune cells requires the remodeling of their cytoskeleton as it depends on, among other processes, adhesive contacts and migration. In recent years, the number of reports describing cytoskeletal defects that compromise the immune system has increased immensely. Furthermore, a new emerging paradigm points toward a role for the cellular actin content as an essential component of the so-called homeostasis-altering molecular processes that induce the activation of innate immune signaling pathways. Here, we review the role of critical actin-cytoskeleton-remodeling proteins, including the Arp2/3 complex, cofilin, coronin and WD40-repeat containing protein 1 (WDR1), in immune pathophysiology, with a special focus on autoimmune and autoinflammatory traits.
Vimentin tunes cell migration on collagen by controlling β1 integrin activation and clustering
Authors: Ostrowska-Podhorodecka Zofia , Ding Isabel , Lee Wilson , Tanic Jelena , Abbasi Sevil , Arora Pamma D. , Liu Richard S. , Patteson Alison E. , Janmey Paul A. , McCulloch Christopher A.
Published: February 2021

Vimentin is a structural protein that is required for mesenchymal cell migration and directly interacts with actin, β1 integrin and paxillin. We examined how these interactions enable vimentin to regulate cell migration on collagen. In fibroblasts, depletion of vimentin increased talin-dependent activation of β1 integrin by more than 2-fold. Loss of vimentin was associated with reduction of β1 integrin clustering by 50% and inhibition of paxillin recruitment to focal adhesions by more than 60%, which was restored by vimentin expression. This reduction of paxillin was associated with 65% lower Cdc42 activation, a 60% reduction of cell extension formation and a greater than 35% decrease in cell migration on collagen. The activation of PAK1, a downstream effector of Cdc42, was required for vimentin phosphorylation and filament maturation. We propose that vimentin tunes cell migration through collagen by acting as an adaptor protein for focal adhesion proteins, thereby regulating β1 integrin activation, resulting in well-organized, mature integrin clusters.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
ANTI-CONFLICTUALIST AND LIBERAL MINIMALISM OF RIGHTS: AN ANALYSIS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF INTEREST THEORY AND THE DYNAMIC APPROACH
Authors: Zezza Michele Beniamino
Published: February 2021

O artigo descreve duas abordagens minimalistas diferentes em matéria de reconhecimento e proteção de direitos: as variantes anti-conflitivista e liberal. Nele, se reconstroem seus fundamentos histórico-culturais e se destacam os principais elementos de sua insustentabilidade teórica.Metodologia: Para esse efeito, utilizam-se algumas ferramentas teóricas derivadas da combinação da interest theory contemporânea com uma abordagem dinâmica.Objetivo: Um dos objetivos mais relevantes da pesquisa consiste em demonstrar a insustentabilidade teórica daquelas reconstruções que atribuem à sucessão histórica das diferentes categorias de direitos uma clara distinção estrutural entre direitos negativos, entendidos como “autoexecutivos”, e direitos positivos a prestações públicas.Resultado: A conjunção dessas duas abordagens (teoria dinâmica e interest theory) fornece uma base conceitual adecuada para o reconhecimento dos direitos sociais em um nível de paridade em relação com os direitos tradicionais de liberdade; por outro lado, esta posição conduz diretamente à rejeição do minimalismo: as liberdades civis clássicas, da mesma forma que as condições materiais necessárias para uma existência digna, constituem bens ou interesses protegidos dos sujeitos que exigem prestações para serem garantidos. Contribuições: A análise realiza uma investigação filosófica sobre os fundamentos teóricos dos direitos sociais em relação aos direitos liberais clássicos da primeira geração. Nesse sentido, produz-se um desenvolvimento doutrinal das suas bases conceituais com o objetivo de acabar definitivamente com a concepção canônica que defende a superioridade axiológica dos direitos da tradição liberal.
Ο ρόλος των πολιτισμικών διαφορών στην αξιολόγηση της θεραπευτικής συμμαχίας και της επίδρασης της συνεδρίας: μια προκαταρκτική σύγκριση Καναδών και Ελλήνων θεραπευόμενων
Authors: Σταλίκας Αναστάσιος , Παυλάτου Ευθυμία
Published: February 2021

The abstract is available in the PDF
Αξιολόγηση της προσωπικής υγείας και μεροληψίες στην επεξεργασία των πληροφοριών: ευρήματα από τη χρήση της δοκιμασίας Stroop
Authors: Χ. Καραδήμας Ευάγγελος , Καφέτσιος Κωνσταντίνος , Δ. Σιδερίδης Γεώργιος , Δημοσθένη Άννα , Παύλου Φωτεινή , Χριστοδούλου Σταυρούλα
Published: February 2021

The abstract is available in the PDF
The effects of age and language on paragraph recall performance: Findings from a preliminary cross-sctional study
Authors: Constantinidou Fofi , E. Ioannou Maria
Published: February 2021

THE ABSTRACT IS AVAILABLE IN THE PDF
Χορήγηση πέντε νευροψυχολογικών οσφρητικών δοκιμασιών σε δείγμα ελληνικού πληθυσμού: προκαταρκτικά αποτελέσματα
Authors: Μήτση Χριστιανα , Πόταγας Κωνσταντίνος , Τζαβάρας Αθανάσιος
Published: February 2021

The abstract is available in the PDF
Differential activation of c-Fos and Egr1 during development of the mouse visual cortex
Authors: Ivanova Anna , Rogozin Pavel , Enikolopov Grigori , Anokhin Konstantin , Lazutkin Alexander
Published: February 2021

Background: Critical periods (CP) in brain development are characterized by heightened neural plasticity in the relevant brain regions.  They are associated with changes in gene expression cascades, in particular with altered expression of genes involved in plasticity regulation, such as immediate early genes.  Here we examine the expression of the immediate early genes c-Fos and Egr1 at different stages of mouse visual cortex (VC) development.

Methods: Mice 11, 25, and 50 days of age were maintained under standard light-dark conditions, deprived of light for 5 days, or deprived of light for 5 days and then exposed to light for 90 min. Their brains were analyzed at PND16 (before the onset of the CP), PND30 (during the CP) and PND55 (after the CP) to determine the changes in the number of cells expressing c-Fos and Egr1 in the binocular primary visual and primary somatosensory cortices.

Results: We found highly specific induction of c-Fos expression in the primary VC in response to light. We also observed transient cross-modal activation of c-Fos in the barrel field of the primary somatosensory cortex in response to light before and during the CP; such activation disappeared after the CP. Expression of Egr1 was not induced by light in the VC before the CP, but was evident during and after the CP, although the induction was much less pronounced than that of c-Fos.

Conclusions: Dynamic changes in c-Fos and Egr1 expression may reflect their contribution to the VC plasticity during the CPs of postnatal brain development.
SWAT 76 evaluation: randomised evaluation of sending pre-notification cards to trial participants before a face-to-face primary outcome measurement to increase attendance
Authors: Treweek Shaun , Gallant Stephanie , Anderson Annie S.
Published: February 2021

Background: Retention is considered the second highest trial methods priority in the UK after recruitment.

 Methods: This Study Within A Trial (SWAT) evaluated whether sending a pre-notification card around one month before a face-to-face primary outcome measurement visit compared to not sending the card increased trial retention. The SWAT was a two-arm, parallel randomised (1:1 allocation ratio), stratified by centre, study. It was embedded within the ActWELL host trial, which evaluated whether women receiving lifestyle change counselling from volunteer coaches improved outcomes including weight and physical activity. The text on the card was not developed using formal behavioural change theory but did target factors thought to influence attendance.

The SWAT primary outcome was the difference in the proportion of participants attending the host trial primary outcome measurement visit. The secondary outcome was the direct cost of sending cards. Host trial participants and research staff at the primary outcome visit were blind to the SWAT. Analysis was intention-to-treat. GRADE was used the assess the certainty of evidence.

Results: 558 host trial participants took part in the SWAT and were included in the analysis. Sending a pre-notification card may result in a slight increase in attendance at a face-to-face primary outcome measurement visit: risk difference = 3.3% (95% confidence interval = -3.0% to 9.6%). This is GRADE low certainty evidence. A recording error meant it was unclear whether 17 participants allocated to the card were actually sent one but a sensitivity analysis did not change the overall result or conclusion. The direct cost of producing and sending the cards was £192 GBP (€213 EUR; $260 USD).

 Discussion: Trialists could consider using pre-notification as they may gain a slight increase in retention to face-to-face trial measurement visits but further evaluations are needed.
Second waves, social distancing, and the spread of COVID-19 across the USA
Authors: Friston Karl J. , Parr Thomas , Zeidman Peter , Razi Adeel , Flandin Guillaume , Daunizeau Jean , Hulme Oliver J. , Billig Alexander J. , Litvak Vladimir , Price Catherine J. , Moran Rosalyn J. , Lambert Christian
Published: February 2021

We recently described a dynamic causal model of a COVID-19 outbreak within a single region. Here, we combine several instantiations of this (epidemic) model to create a (pandemic) model of viral spread among regions. Our focus is on a second wave of new cases that may result from loss of immunity—and the exchange of people between regions—and how mortality rates can be ameliorated under different strategic responses. In particular, we consider hard or soft social distancing strategies predicated on national (Federal) or regional (State) estimates of the prevalence of infection in the population. The modelling is demonstrated using timeseries of new cases and deaths from the United States to estimate the parameters of a factorial (compartmental) epidemiological model of each State and, crucially, coupling between States. Using Bayesian model reduction, we identify the effective connectivity between States that best explains the initial phases of the outbreak in the United States. Using the ensuing posterior parameter estimates, we then evaluate the likely outcomes of different policies in terms of mortality, working days lost due to lockdown and demands upon critical care. The provisional results of this modelling suggest that social distancing and loss of immunity are the two key factors that underwrite a return to endemic equilibrium.
Z Factor: Drama as a tool to tackle mental health stigma: study design and protocol for community and public engagement in rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Gudyanga Denford , Palmer Tamaryn , Wright Nicola , O'Regan Eileen , Shonai Charity , Mlambo Nefasi , Maremera Melody , Mangezi Walter
Published: February 2021

Background: Mental health is slowly gaining global significance as a key health issue, yet the stigma attached to psychosis is still a major problem. There has been little in-depth exploration of sustainable, cost-effective, and replicable community engagement strategies that address mental health myths and stigma, which are major barriers to early health-seeking behaviours. In low-income countries such as Zimbabwe, cultural and spiritual beliefs are at the centre of most mental health explanatory models, perpetuating an environment where mental health conversations are a cultural taboo. Mental health interventions should be accompanied by creative, evidence-based community engagement, ensuring that interventions are suitable for local settings and giving communities a voice in directing their health initiatives. 

Methods: Z Factor aimed to engage young adults and their support networks across a variety of socioeconomic groups in a rural district of Zimbabwe through their participation in an inter-ward five-staged drama competition. The focus was on psychosis, with subcategories of initial presentation/detection, seeking help/pathway to care, and the road to recovery/treatment. Each drama group’s composition included a young adult and a typical support network seeking treatment from the service provider of choice. Dramas were to act as discussion starters, paving the way toward broader and deeper psychosis treatment discussions among rural communities and gaining insight into service user expectations from health research.

Conclusions: Outcomes of the pilot community engagement project will be instrumental in improving understanding community perceptions about psychosis treatment and recovery in rural Zimbabwe and increasing community awareness about psychosis, as well as paving the way for initiating service provider collaboration to promote early detection and encouraging early health-seeking behaviours. The above outcomes will also inform the design of models for more responsive community and public engagement initiatives in similar low resource settings in Zimbabwe and beyond.
ИМИТАЦИОННАЯ МОДЕЛЬ УЧАСТКА ТРАНСПОРТНОЙ СЕТИ
Authors: Agapova Elena Grigoryevna , Popova Tatyana Mikhajlovna
Published: February 2021

Исследование научной статьи направлено на решение проблемы дорожных заторов и оптимизацию движения потоков транспортных средств. После анализа проблемы дорожных заторов была разработана имитационная модель участка транспортной сети города Хабаровска, максимально приближенная к реальности. Результаты проведения экспериментов показали, что регулирование рассмотренного перекрестка является, в целом, эффективным, с незначительными недочетами, которые можно исправить для улучшения транспортной ситуации.
РАЗРАБОТКА ИМИТАЦИОННОЙ МОДЕЛИ УЧАСТКА ТРАНСПОРТНОЙ СЕТИ В GPSS STUDIO
Authors: Agapova Elena Grigoryevna , Popova Tatyana Mikhajlovna
Published: February 2021

В научной статье представлено проектирование и создание модели участка транспортной сети (на примере участка сети города Хабаровска), позволяющей без экспериментов на реальном участке транспортной сети принимать эффективные решения по настройке регулируемых параметров. После анализа проблемы дорожных заторов была разработана имитационная модель участка транспортной сети города Хабаровска, максимально приближенная к реальности.
ЭВОЛЮЦИЯ МЕТОДОВ И ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ, ПРИМЕНЯЕМЫХ ДЛЯ ОСВЕЩЕНИЯ АВТОМОБИЛЬНЫХ ДОРОГ
Authors: Vostrikov Alexander Gennadievich , Podolsky Vladislav Petrovich
Published: February 2021

В рамках программ энергосбережения наиболее важным является применение энергии солнца и ветра непосредственно на месте установки уличных светильников, однако и такой вид энергии требует экономного потребления, т.к. всем известно, что солнце это звезда, которая может погаснуть из-за большого расхода ее энергии. Приводится краткая характеристика и анализ по освещению домов, офисов и дорог общего пользования. Рассматриваются как отечественные достижения и открытия, так и зарубежные. Обсуждаются вопросы по применению различных светильников на основе светодиодов, солнечных батарей, пьезогенераторов для повышения освещенности дорог. Предложена идея разумного энергопотребления, чтобы с помощью разработки технологий автомобильная дорога представляла собой позитивную энергию, т.е. чтобы дорога стала поставщиком энергии.
О СИСТЕМЕ ОЦЕНКИ КАЧЕСТВА РАБОТЫ ТРАНСПОРТНОГО ПРЕДПРИЯТИЯ ДЛЯ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ЕГО ФУНКЦИОНИРОВАНИЕМ
Authors: Lvovich Yakov Yevseevich , Preobrazhenskiy Andrey Petrovich , Choporov Oleg Nikolaevich
Published: February 2021

В статье рассматривается задача, связанная с оценкой качества транспортного предприятия. Дано описание модели управления. Указан критерий ее применения.
РАЗРАБОТКА СИСТЕМЫ МОДЕЛИРОВАНИЯ ДВИЖЕНИЯ СУДОВ
Authors: Shvetsova Anastasia Fedorovna
Published: February 2021

Данный доклад посвящен рассмотрению процесса моделирования движением судов. Подробно раскрывается значение термина судопоток в теории и практики судовождения. Особое внимание обращается на создание компьютерной программы, с помощью которой можно смоделировать поток на линейном фарватере.
МЕТОДИКА ПОВЫШЕНИЯ ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ ТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИХ МАШИН НА ПРИМЕРЕ ПОВЫШЕНИЯ ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ ПОГРУЗОЧНОЙ МАШИНЫ 2ПНБ-2
Authors: Makeeva Elena Ivanovna , Racitina Inna Sergeevna , Miroslavskaya Maria Dmitrievna
Published: February 2021

На современном этапе научно-технического развития основными направлениями развития технологических машин являются: переход к непрерывным автоматизированным процессам, повышения качества выполнения работы, повышение эффективности использования машин.Если рассматривать современные технологические машины, разработанные и сконструированные в течении последних 10–ти лет, то можно выделить большое количество машин, управляемых дистанционно (полностью или отдельными частями оборудования). Приведем насколько примеров новейших разработок:– MenziMuck M545X;– Palfinger PCC 57.002;– KOBELCO SK400DLC–10 и др.Введение автоматики значительно повышает эффективность машины при наименьших трудовых затратах. Однако, на многих предприятиях до сих пор используется техника предыдущего поколения, так как произвести обновление основных фондов затратно. В таком случае, возникает актуальный вопрос повышения технологической и экономической эффективности существующей техники. Новизна результатов заключается в следующем:– установлено, что повышение производительности погрузочных машин непрерывного действия достигается за счет их автоматического управления, которое регулирует подачу по уровню нагрузок и осуществляет защиту двигателей, трансмиссии рабочего органа и ходовой части;– разработана имитационная модель машины погрузочной машины непрерывного действия с автоматизированным управлением.Цель – определение универсальной методики повышения эффективности технологических машин.Метод или методология проведения работы: в статье использовались методы вычислительной математики, теории планирования эксперимента, методы технико-экономических расчетов в технике.Результаты: определена поэтапная и структурированная методика повышения эффективности использования машины.Область применения результатов: полученные результаты можно применять на транспортных, строительных и других предприятиях, в процессе деятельности которой используется технологические машины.
Models and algorithms for reconstruction and examination of emergency events of road accidents based on logical artificial intelligence
Authors: Chuvikov Dmitriy
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the monograph is to create a methodology, combined expert and simulation models, as well as algorithms and software-modeling tools for reconstruction and examination of accident events for automating decision-making by an expert center employee.
The methodology of combining and algorithms of joint work of an expert system based on logical artificial intelligence (mivar approach) and a simulation system for solving problems of reconstruction and examination of road accidents are developed; model reconstruction and examination of the accident in the formalism of the knowledge base bipartite oriented mivar nets, including analysis formulas braking qualities of the vehicle, determining the speed of a car's performance in terms of specific DTS, the formula for calculating different occasions: - slip car when braking, driving on curved sections of the road, hitting a car on the pedestrian in uniform motion and unlimited visibility; a method of generation of interfaces for designer expert systems based on the concept of mivar approach; special software in the form of expert systems "Analysis of road accident" in order to reduce the complexity of the process of calculating the disputed accidents, errors in the calculation and improve the accuracy and objectivity of the results obtained and the speed and quality of the calculations.
It can be useful to specialists of expert institutions, insurance companies, educational institutions in the field of expertise, as well as unmanned vehicles in terms of objective analysis and examination of road accidents.
Soil and climatic conditions as a main factor of draining meliorations in the Bahna Valley, Ukraine
Authors: Krool Volodymyr , Hodzinska Iryna
Published: February 2021

The article studies the leading factors of influence on draining meliorations in theBahnaValley, such as soil cover and climatic conditions. The main types of soils are determined: Gleysols Umbric, Gleysols podzolic; Gleysols ferrum (rusty) podzolic; Podzoluvisols Stagnic; Phaeozems, slightly podzolic and sandy; Gleysols Umbric and Fluvisols Umbric and peat; Gleysols podzolic surface-bogged. It is established that the distribution of precipitation, which accounted for the warm season (70-80% of the annual norm), was a key factor among the climatic conditions in the region. It has been found that the valley may have a relative humidity of more than 90% within 100 days of a year and a relative humidity of 30% only within 20 days. The influence of Ukrainian Carpathians and adjoining flat territories results in specific conditions of humidification. It has been discovered that a great amount of precipitation (750-800 mm) and moderate annual temperatures contributed to the accumulation of excessive moisture that led to the boggy pedogenesis. The latter causes the formation of different swamped and boggy soils. The prevalence of the oversaturated soils in Bahna valley determined the need for drainage reclamation in the region.
The effect of thiotriazoline on impaired immune system in experimental pneumonia and contact dermatitis
Authors: Regeda-Furdychko M. M.
Published: February 2021

Literary sources indicate that various pathological processes are accompanied by the development of a violation of the immune system.The aim of the study was to determine the pathogenetic justification for the use of thiotriazoline on the basis of immune system disorders in experimental pneumonia (EP) and contact dermatitis (CD).The researches were carried out on 55 guinea-pigs. The study material was collected on the 4th, 8th, 10th and 18th days of EP and ECD under ether anesthesia. EP was called by the method of VN Shlyapnikov, TL Solodov. ECD was simulated by method of VA Volkovoj. The content of T and B lymphocytes in the blood was determined by the method of Chernushenko KF, Kogosova LS, and the level of the circulating immune complexes (CIC) by the method of V. Haskova, J. Kaslik. We have established a gradual increase in the level of B-lymphocytes and CIC against the background of a decrease in T-lymphocytes in the blood on the 4th, 8th, 10th and 18th days of the development of EP and CD, with a predominance on the 18th day of the experiment before treatment. The use of thiotriazoline caused an immunocorrective effect in CD and EP.
Analysis of the results of experimental research of professional development of the future teacher of labor education and technologies in technologies
Authors: Tsisaruk I. V.
Published: February 2021

The article is devoted to the analysis of results of experimental research of professional development of future teachers of technical education and technologies in the process of independent work. The dynamics of levels of professional development after the formative stage of experimental research is shown.
Laboratory-biochemical features of the course of chronic hepatitis C with polymorphism rs11536889 + 3725G/C of TLR-4 gene
Authors: Bevz T. I. , Martynyuk G. A. , Livshits L. A. , Demchyshyn Y. M.
Published: February 2021

Chronic HCV infection remains as a global health problem due to its wide prevalence, latent course without clinical manifestations, development of liver fibrosis with the eventual formation of cirrhosis and liver cancer, which largely leads to poor prognosis and short survival of patients. Therefore, it is necessary to study in more detail the risk factors for adverse events, as their modification which may improve the prognosis and clinical consequences for patients with CHC. The article considers the changes of the main biochemical markers of liver damage and their dependence with the rs11536889 + 3725G/C polymorphism of the TLR-4 gene.