bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usefulness of Sepsis-3 in diagnosing and predicting mortality of ventilator-associated lower respiratory tract infections
Authors: Gaudet Alexandre , Devos Matthieu , Keignart Sylvain , Pouly Olivier , Lecailtel Sylvain , Wallet Frédéric , Nseir Saad
Published: January 2021

Background

Early distinguishing ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis (VAT) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) remains difficult in the daily practice. However, this question appears clinically relevant, as treatments of VAT and VAP currently differ. In this study, we assessed the accuracy of sepsis criteria according to the Sepsis-3 definition in the early distinction between VAT and VAP.

Methods

Retrospective single-center cohort, including all consecutive patients with a diagnosis of VAT (n = 70) or VAP (n = 136), during a 2-year period. Accuracy of sepsis criteria according to Sepsis-3, total SOFA and respiratory SOFA, calculated at time of microbiological sampling were assessed in differentiating VAT from VAP, and in predicting mortality on ICU discharge.

Results

Sensitivity and specificity of sepsis criteria were found respectively at 0.4 and 0.91 to distinguish VAT from VAP, and at 0.38 and 0.75 for the prediction of mortality in VA-LRTI. A total SOFA ≥ 6 and a respiratory SOFA ≥ 3 were identified as the best cut-offs for these criteria in differentiating VAT from VAP, with sensitivity and specificity respectively found at 0.63 and 0.69 for total SOFA, and at 0.49 and 0.7 for respiratory SOFA. Additionally, for prediction of mortality, a total SOFA ≥ 7 and a respiratory SOFA = 4 were identified as the best-cut-offs, respectively yielding sensitivity and specificity at 0.56 and 0.61 for total SOFA, and at 0.22 and 0.95 for respiratory SOFA.

Conclusions

Sepsis criteria according to the Sepsis-3 definition show a high specificity but a low sensitivity for the diagnosis of VAP. Our results do not support the use of these criteria for the early diagnosis of VAP in patients with VA-LRTI.
Rosario Castellanos: los derroteros de la impiedad
Authors: Solórzano Esqueda Lilia , Estrada Gaytán Mariana Del Carmen
Published: January 2021

Desde sus primeros poemarios y en su investigación de tesis de maestría en filosofía, Rosario Castellanos mostró una constante: su preocupación por indagar sobre la imagen conceptual y la condición de la mujer en un mundo mayoritariamente pensado y dirigido por hombres. En su poemario En la tierra de en medio (1972), apuntala esa constante. El poema «Bella dama sin piedad» abre en una reelaboración del antiguo tópico de la muerte con forma de lo femenino; pero en el libro va adquiriendo nuevas interpretaciones, combinándose con las actitudes que presenta la mujer frente a sus diversas circunstancias. Este texto propone pistas sobre cómo la poeta va construyendo y resignificando, sin piedad, ese territorio de en medio que aparentemente no tiene confines y que habita la mujer, desde las propias coordenadas de pensamiento de la autora mexicana.
Reseña de: Liberia Vayá, Irene y Bianca Sánchez-Gutiérrez (Coords.). Aquelarre. La emancipación de las mujeres en la cultura de masas. Sevilla: Advook, 2020. 256 pp. ISBN:978-84-942969-9-4
Authors: Aparisi Galán María
Published: January 2021

Reseña de: Liberia Vayá, Irene y Bianca Sánchez-Gutiérrez (Coords.). Aquelarre. La emancipación de las mujeres en la cultura de masas. Sevilla: Advook, 2020. 256 pp. ISBN:978-84-942969-9-4
Strong Reduction of Colorectal Cancer Incidence and Mortality After Screening Colonoscopy: Prospective Cohort Study From Germany
Authors: Guo Feng , Chen Chen , Holleczek Bernd , Schöttker Ben , Hoffmeister Michael , Brenner Hermann
Published: January 2021

INTRODUCTION:

A claimed advantage of colonoscopy over sigmoidoscopy in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is prevention of CRC not only in the distal colon and rectum but also in the proximal colon. We aimed to assess the association of screening colonoscopy use with overall and site-specific CRC incidence and associated mortality.

METHODS:

Information on use of screening colonoscopy as well as potential confounding factors was obtained at baseline in 2000–2002, updated at 2-, 5-, 8-, and 17-year follow-up from 9,207 participants aged 50–75 years without history of CRC in a statewide cohort study in Saarland, Germany. Covariate-adjusted associations of screening colonoscopy with CRC incidence and mortality, which were obtained through record linkage with the Saarland Cancer Registry and mortality statistics up to 2018, were assessed by Cox proportional hazards models with time-varying exposure information.

RESULTS:

During a median follow-up of 17.2 years, 268 participants were diagnosed with CRC and 98 died from CRC. Screening colonoscopy was associated with strongly reduced CRC incidence (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33–0.57) and mortality (aHR 0.34, 95% CI 0.21–0.53), with stronger reduction for distal (aHRs 0.36, 95% CI 0.25–0.51, and 0.33, 95% CI 0.19–0.59, respectively) than for proximal cancer (aHRs 0.69, 95% CI 0.42–1.13, and 0.62, 95% CI 0.26–1.45, respectively). Nevertheless, strong reduction of mortality from proximal cancer was also observed within 10 years after screening colonoscopy (aHR 0.31, 95% CI 0.10–0.96).

DISCUSSION:

In this large prospective cohort study from Germany, screening colonoscopy was associated with strong reduction in CRC incidence and mortality.
Colonic Intussusception Secondary to Hereditary Angioedema
Authors: Roy Justin , Vunnam Rama , Gorrepati Venkata Subhash , Bethards Deborah , McGarrity Thomas
Published: January 2021

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disease with numerous gastrointestinal manifestations. Intussusception, although rare, has been a reported complication with documentation of bowel wall edema on endoscopy during an acute flare. With the advent of synthetic C1 esterase inhibitors, this disease has become more effectively treatable. This case report shows a HAE flare complicated by colonic intussusception, treated with C1 esterase inhibitor, with complete endoscopic resolution seen on hospital day 5. This case provides evidence that with proper medical treatment, an HAE flare with intussusception has the potential to resolve without any further need for surgical or endoscopic intervention.
The Emerging Battle: Lysosomal Acid Lipase Deficiency vs Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Children
Authors: Saad Michelle , Syed Sabeen
Published: January 2021

Lysosomal acid lipase is an under-recognized enzyme involved in the modulation and expression of genes that part-take in the synthesis and uptake of cholesterol. We describe the unusual course of a 2-year-old patient who presented with hypercholesterolemia and elevated liver enzymes, initially misdiagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia. The absence of a suggestive family history triggered further testing that revealed complete lysosomal acid lipase deficiency that typically presents in infancy as Wolman disease with failure to thrive, malabsorption, and liver failure. Interestingly, the patient's clinical picture suggested cholesteryl ester storage disease instead, a milder phenotype in older patients.
THE CHANGE OF CARDIOSTIMULATION DEVICE PROGRAMMING DUE TO DETECTION OF ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE
Authors: Morava Jan , Richter Aleš
Published: January 2021

The study deals with the interdisciplinary topic of the electromagnetic compatibility of the cardiac implantable electronic devices that are used in patients with a defect of heart conduction system. We are focusing on the detection of disturbing signals on electrodes of cardiostimulation device and its interpretation. The detection of electromagnetic interference (EMI) is related to electrode choice, device placement, its configuration and programming. The aim of the study is the analysis of the pacemaker response in the presence of an external source of the disturbance fields. We point to possible risks of its interaction and discuss mechanisms that can influence the pacemaker sensitivity to EMI. Due to improper signal detection, the device programming changes can occur. We present an experiment of the exposure of the cardiostimulation system to a low-frequency harmonic interference signals and finally we analyse similar clinical episode and discuss proper functioning of the pacemaker.
INAPPROPRIATE S-ICD PATIENT RECEIVES FALSE POSITIVE SHOCKS
Authors: Korpas David
Published: January 2021

Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) protects the patients at risk for sudden cardiac death while leaving the heart and vasculature untouched. It provides life-saving therapy, but may also deliver inappropriate therapy. Presented case demonstrates a possibility of S-ICD therapy induction due to double-counting. It was original caused by lack of suitable sensing vectors and the solution was possible just particularly. As the inter-individual variability of subcutaneous cardiac signal is considerable, the patient screening should be necessary for identification of such patients, which have an unsuitable subcutaneous sensing signals.
Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy as a Tool for Assessment of Photoluminescent Pigments Print on Polyester Fabric
Authors:   University of Maribor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Engineering Materials and Design, Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia, Gorgieva Selestina ,   University of Maribor, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Institute of Automation, Koroška cesta 46, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia, Fakin Darinka ,   University of Maribor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Engineering Materials and Design, Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia, Ojstršek Alenka ,   University of Maribor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Engineering Materials and Design, Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; University of Maribor, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Institute of Automation, Koroška cesta 46, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
Published: January 2021

The size and distribution of the photoluminescent pigment particles within the selected binder may affect the quality and appearance of the final print significantly. Yet, the techniques for precise evaluation of size distri¬bution of the pigment particles within a 3D fabric space are rather limited, based on their intrinsic fluorescent properties. The presented work demonstrates a simple screen-printing process for the sustainable application of three different types of commercial fluorescent pigments on polyester (PES) fabric, using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as a binder. A comprehensive toolbox was used to compare and study different commercial photo¬luminescent pigments and their corresponding prints, by means of size distribution and concentration effect of emission intensity, including Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy (CFM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) in combination with complementary spectroscopic techniques, i.e. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) and Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy. The focus is on CFM utilised as a non-destructive tool, used for the evaluation of photoluminescent pigments´ spatial distribution within printing pastes, as well as on/within the PES fabrics.
Durability of Shield Effectiveness of Copper-Coated Interlining Fabrics
Authors:   University of Zagreb Faculty of Textile Technology, Department of Clothing Technology, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Šaravanja Bosiljak , Pušić Tanja ,   University of Zagreb Faculty of Textile Technology, Department for Textile Chemistry & Ecology, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Malarić Krešimir ,   University of Zagreb Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, Department of Wireless Communications, Unska 3, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Hursa Šajatović Anica ,   University of Zagreb Faculty of Textile Technology, Department of Clothing Technology, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Published: January 2021

The protective shield effectiveness (SE) of copper-coated polyamide and polyester interlining fabrics at frequen¬cies of 1.8 GHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.4 GHz are presented in this study. These fabrics were treated through 10 cycles of dry and wet cleaning. After the characterization of shield effectiveness, fabrics were stored in a dark and dry place. On the basis of the SE values at all measured frequencies, it was confirmed that the copper-coated protective polyester fabric had better SE durability under storage conditions than the copper-coated polyamide fabric. Accordingly, the copper-coated polyester interlining fabric is more suitable for integration into functional clothing due to its use cycle.
Investigation of Durable Bio-polymeric Antimicrobial Finishes to Chemically Modified Textile Fabrics Using Solvent Induction System
Authors:   Dr B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology, Department of Textile Technology, Jalandhar,144011, India, Joshi Shubham , Midha Vinay ,   Dr B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology, Department of Textile Technology, Jalandhar,144011, India, Rajendran Subbiyan ,   The University of Bolton, Institute for Material Research and Innovation, Bolton, BL3 5AB, United Kingdom
Published: January 2021

New technologies and materials required for developing antibacterial textiles have become a subject of inter¬est to the researchers in recent years. This study focuses on the investigation of the biopolymeric antibacterial agents, such as neem, aloe vera, tulsi and grapeseed oil, in the trichloroacetic acid-methylene chloride (TCAMC) solvent used for the pretreatment of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester fabrics. Different PET structures, such as 100% polyester, polyester/viscose, polyester/cotton and 100% texturised, are treated with four different concentrations (5%, 10%, 15% and 20%) of biopolymeric antibacterial finishes. The antibacterial activity of the treated samples is tested against both the Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) bacteria. Taguchi mixed orthogonal array Design L16 (4^3 2^2) is chosen for an experimental plan to determine the optimum conditions. Among all the fabric samples, the 100% polyester fabric treated with 20% grapeseed oil registers the highest antibacterial activity of 86%, and 73% against S. aureus and E. coli respec¬tively. However, the antibacterial effect is reduced to 37%, and 34% respectively after 10 machine launderings.
Analisa Mikrotremor Menggunakan Metode HVSR untuk Mengetahui Karakteristik Bawah Permukaan Manifestasi Panas Bumi Diwak dan Derekan Berdasarkan Nilai Vp
Authors: Arintalofa Vithya , Yulianto Gatot , Harmoko Udi
Published: January 2021

Pengukuran Mikrotremor merupakan pengukuran seismik pasif untuk merekam getaran yang dihasilkan oleh aktivitas bumi ataupun aktivitas manusia, biasanya metode ini digunakan untuk memperkirakan tingkat kerusakan yang timbul akibat gempa bumi dan juga dapat digunakan untuk mengetahui kondisi struktur bawah permukaan berdasarkan frekuensi dominannya dan faktor amplifikasinya. Dalam analisis mikrotremor spektrum komponen horizontal dibandingkan terhadap komponen vertikal atau dikenal dengan metode HVSR. Parameter penting yang dihasilkan dari metode HVSR yaitu frekuensi natural dan amplifikasi. Dari hasil penelitian didapatkan P=persebaran nilai frekuensi dominan (fo) yang didapatkan dari hasil pengolahan data mikrotremor pada area manifestasi panas bumi Diwak dan Derekan berkisar antara 0,08 Hz sampai dengan 9,29 Hz, persebaran nilai faktor amplifikasi (Ao) bernilai antara 0,03 hingga dengan 7,07, sedangkan inversi kurva H/V menghasilkan nilai kecepatan gelombang P (VP) dan gelombang S (VS) dimana nilai VP berkisar antara 390 m/s sampai dengan 4.993 m/s dan nilai VS berada pada kisaran 190 m/s hingga 3.054 m/s.
Język w czasie epidemii, epidemia w języku
Authors: Kosmalska Weronika
Published: January 2021

Artykuł traktuje o trudnościach związanych z pojawieniem się w języku nowych sformułowań, metafor, słów odnoszących się do epidemii koronawirusa SARSCoV-2, a także o dyskursie publicznym, który przyczynił się do rozprzestrzeniania się zjawiska nazywanego dziś epidemią strachu. Dzieląc językowe novum na epidemię śmiechu i epidemię strachu, prezentuję reprezentatywne dla obu grup przykłady wypowiedzi, m. in. neologizmy, komentarze widniejące na memach, wypowiedzi ówczesnego ministra zdrowia. Analizuję, jakie są przyczyny ich powstawania, skutki oraz językowe wyznaczniki. Na koniec próbuję odpowiedzieć na pytanie, jaką funkcję pełnią wypowiedzi wywołujące strach oraz odwołujące się do komizmu. Całość przystosowana została do wykorzystania podczas lekcji języka polskiego w szkole ponadpodstawowej.
Viscosity prediction of hydrocarbon binary mixture using an artificial neural network-group contribution method
Authors: Nanvakenari Sara , Ghasemi Mitra , Movagharnejad Kamyar
Published: January 2021

In this study, the viscosity of hydrocarbon binary mixtures has been predicted with an artificial neural network and a group contribution method (ANN-GCM) by utilizing various training algorithm including Scaled Conjugate Gradient (SCG), Levenberg-Marquardt (LM), Resilient back Propagation (RP), and Gradient Descent with variable learning rate back propagation (GDX). Moreover, different transfer functions such as Tan-sigmoid (tansig), Log-sigmoid (logsig), and purelin were investigated in hidden and output layer and their effects on network precision were estimated. Accordingly, 796 experimental data points of viscosity of hydrocarbon binary mixture were collected from the literature for a wide range of operating parameters. The temperature, pressure, mole fraction, molecular weight, and structural group of the system were selected as the independent input parameters. The statistical analysis results with R
2 = 0.99 revealed a small value for Average absolute relative deviation (AARD) of 1.288 and Mean square error (MSE) of 0.001018 by comparing the ANN predicted data with experimental data. Neural network configuration was also optimized. Based on the results, the network with one hidden layer and 27 neurons with the Levenberg-Marquardt training algorithm and tansig transfer function for hidden layer along with purelin transfer function for output layer constituted the best network structure. Further, the weights and bias were optimized to minimize the error. Then, the obtained results of the present study were compared with the data from some previous methods. The results suggested that this work can predict the viscosity of hydrocarbon binary mixture with better AARD. In general, the results indicated that combining ANN and GCM model is capable to predict the viscosity of hydrocarbon binary mixtures with a good accuracy.
Congenital Lobular Capillary Hemangioma in a 48 hours old neonate: a case report and a literature review
Authors: Lizarzaburu Ana Carolina , Flores Maria J. , Jaramillo Camila A. , Leon-Rojas José E. , Lizarzaburu Diego Javier
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To report an unusual presentation of a Lobular Capillary Hemangioma in a 48 h old neonate to inform practitioners on the importance of proper identification of the lesion, differential diagnosis and management.

Case presentation

We report the case of a newborn female presenting with a pedunculated mass on the right hand, port-wine colored that quickly turned dark purple indicating thrombosis. The mass was surgically excised without complications and histopathology analysis reported a LCH. An abdominal and renal ultrasound was requested to rule out any underlying abnormalities. At follow-up, two months later, there is adequate healing and no related complications.

Conclusions

Lobular Capillary Hemangioma is a rare vascular malformation that occurs at an early age in the head and neck in most cases. We report an unusual case of a newborn female patient with a pedunculated lobular hemangioma on the right hand. Surgical treatment was performed with good cosmetic results. Our case is relevant as it raises awareness of the different diagnoses a congenital mass can be and that we, as physicians, should take into consideration when making a diagnosis and treatment.
Methodischer Mechanismus und instrumentelle Vernunft
Authors: Becker Ralf
Published: January 2021

Mechanistic explanations – especially mechanistic models – are commonly used to describe living beings. But their usage should be scrutinised closely. This text elucidates the motives, conditions and implications of a so called ‘methodical mechanism’. Due to the fact that humans cannot properly explain certain biotic processes, they have to rely on their technical knowledge to explain them. The history of philosophy and scientific thinking is, therefore, intertwined with the history of technology: the way humans interpret and explain natural phenomena is subject to the technological knowledge of a given time. The danger of this mechanistic approach, however, is that it can lead to false ontological assumptions about nature and humankind’s place therein, resulting in a subjugation of natural processes to instrumental reason.
Estimating the size of undetected cases of the COVID-19 outbreak in Europe: an upper bound estimator
Authors: Rocchetti Irene , Böhning Dankmar , Holling Heinz , Maruotti Antonello
Published: January 2021

Background

While the number of detected COVID-19 infections are widely available, an understanding of the extent of undetected cases is urgently needed for an effective tackling of the pandemic. The aim of this work is to estimate the true number of COVID-19 (detected and undetected) infections in several European countries. The question being asked is: How many cases have actually occurred?

Methods

We propose an upper bound estimator under cumulative data distributions, in an open population, based on a day-wise estimator that allows for heterogeneity. The estimator is data-driven and can be easily computed from the distributions of daily cases and deaths. Uncertainty surrounding the estimates is obtained using bootstrap methods.

Results

We focus on the ratio of the total estimated cases to the observed cases at April 17th. Differences arise at the country level, and we get estimates ranging from the 3.93 times of Norway to the 7.94 times of France. Accurate estimates are obtained, as bootstrap-based intervals are rather narrow.

Conclusions

Many parametric or semi-parametric models have been developed to estimate the population size from aggregated counts leading to an approximation of the missed population and/or to the estimate of the threshold under which the number of missed people cannot fall (i.e. a lower bound). Here, we provide a methodological contribution introducing an upper bound estimator and provide reliable estimates on the dark number, i.e. how many undetected cases are going around for several European countries, where the epidemic spreads differently.
Detection of follicular regions in actin-stained whole slide images of the human lymph node by shock filter
Authors: Wurzel Patrick , Ackermann Jörg , Schäfer Hendrik , Scharf Sonja , Hansmann Martin-Leo , Koch Ina
Published: January 2021

Human lymph nodes play a central part of immune defense against infection agents and tumor cells. Lymphoid follicles are compartments of the lymph node which are spherical, mainly filled with B cells. B cells are cellular components of the adaptive immune systems. In the course of a specific immune response, lymphoid follicles pass different morphological differentiation stages. The morphology and the spatial distribution of lymphoid follicles can be sometimes associated to a particular causative agent and development stage of a disease. We report our new approach for the automatic detection of follicular regions in histological whole slide images of tissue sections immuno-stained with actin. The method is divided in two phases: (1) shock filter-based detection of transition points and (2) segmentation of follicular regions. Follicular regions in 10 whole slide images were manually annotated by visual inspection, and sample surveys were conducted by an expert pathologist. The results of our method were validated by comparing with the manual annotation. On average, we could achieve a Zijbendos similarity index of 0.71, with a standard deviation of 0.07.
Regulation of DEAH-box RNA helicases by G-patch proteins
Authors: Bohnsack Katherine E. , Ficner Ralf , Bohnsack Markus T. , Jonas Stefanie
Published: January 2021

RNA helicases of the DEAH/RHA family form a large and conserved class of enzymes that remodel RNA protein complexes (RNPs) by translocating along the RNA. Driven by ATP hydrolysis, they exert force to dissociate hybridized RNAs, dislocate bound proteins or unwind secondary structure elements in RNAs. The sub-cellular localization of DEAH-helicases and their concomitant association with different pathways in RNA metabolism, such as pre-mRNA splicing or ribosome biogenesis, can be guided by cofactor proteins that specifically recruit and simultaneously activate them. Here we review the mode of action of a large class of DEAH-specific adaptor proteins of the G-patch family. Defined only by their eponymous short glycine-rich motif, which is sufficient for helicase binding and stimulation, this family encompasses an immensely varied array of domain compositions and is linked to an equally diverse set of functions. G-patch proteins are conserved throughout eukaryotes and are even encoded within retroviruses. They are involved in mRNA, rRNA and snoRNA maturation, telomere maintenance and the innate immune response. Only recently was the structural and mechanistic basis for their helicase enhancing activity determined. We summarize the molecular and functional details of G-patch-mediated helicase regulation in their associated pathways and their involvement in human diseases.
Human glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is an antimicrobial adjuvant re-sensitising multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Jaradat Da’san M. M. , Al-Karablieh Nehaya , Zaarer Basmah H. M. , Li Wenyi , Saleh Khalil K.Y. , Rasras Anas J. , Abu-Romman Saeid , O’Brien-Simpson Neil M. , Wade John D.
Published: January 2021

Increasing antibiotic resistance in Gram-negative bacteria has mandated the development of both novel antibiotics and alternative therapeutic strategies. Evidence of interplay between several gastrointestinal peptides and the gut microbiota led us to investigate potential and broad-spectrum roles for the incretin hormone, human glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) against the Enterobacteriaceae bacteria, Escherichia coli and Erwinia amylovora. GIP had a potent disruptive action on drug efflux pumps of the multidrug resistant bacteria E. coli TG1 and E. amylovora 1189 strains. The effect was comparable to bacterial mutants lacking the inner and outer membrane efflux pump factor proteins AcrB and TolC. While GIP was devoid of direct antimicrobial activity, it has a potent membrane depolarizing effect, and at low concentrations, it significantly potentiated the activity of eight antibiotics and bile salt by reducing MICs by 4-8-fold in E. coli TG1 and 4-20-fold in E. amylovora 1189. GIP can thus be regarded as an antimicrobial adjuvant with potential for augmenting the available antibiotic arsenal.
Convergence theorems for total asymptotically nonexpansive single-valued and quasi nonexpansive multi-valued mappings in hyperbolic spaces
Authors: Chuadchawna Preeyalak , Farajzadeh Ali , Kaewcharoen Anchalee
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we discuss the Δ-convergence and strong convergence for the iterative sequence generated by the proposed scheme to approximate a common fixed point of a total asymptotically nonexpansive
single-valued mapping and a quasi nonexpansive multi-valued mapping in a complete uniformly convex hyperbolic space. Finally, by giving an example, we illustrate our result.
Effect of yoga practices on general mental ability in urban residential school children
Authors: Verma A. , Shete S.U.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Mental ability of children represents functioning of brain in different aspects of competency including verbal, mathematical, logical reasoning and spatial, which is of prime importance for academic performance.

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of yoga on general mental ability of urban residential school children.

Methods

Sixty-six urban school children aged 11–15 years were selected as participants. All the selected participants were staying in a residential school in Pune District. A stratified random sampling method was used to divide the students into experimental and control groups. There were 32 students in experimental group and 29 students in control group. Both experimental and control groups were assessed for general mental ability by using standard questionnaire at the baseline and at the end of 12 weeks of yoga training. The study participants of experimental group underwent yoga training for 12 weeks, for 1 h in the morning for a period of 12 weeks. The control group did not undergo any yoga training during this time period.

Results

The experimental group participants showed significant improvement in general mental ability as compared to control group.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that yoga practices could improve general mental ability of urban residential school children.
Research on target feature extraction and location positioning with machine learning algorithm
Authors: Li Licheng
Published: January 2021

The accurate positioning of target is an important link in robot technology. Based on machine learning algorithm, this study firstly analyzed the location positioning principle of binocular vision of robot, then extracted features of the target using speeded-up robust features (SURF) method, positioned the location using Back Propagation Neural Networks (BPNN) method, and tested the method through experiments. The experimental results showed that the feature extraction of SURF method was fast, about 0.2 s, and was less affected by noise. It was found from the positioning results that the output position of the BPNN method was basically consistent with the actual position, and errors in X, Y and Z directions were very small, which could meet the positioning needs of the robot. The experimental results verify the effectiveness of machine learning method and provide some theoretical support for its further promotion and application in practice.
Women with high plasma levels of PBDE-47 are at increased risk of preterm birth
Authors: Peltier Morgan R. , Fassett Michael J. , Arita Yuko , Chiu Vicki Y. , Shi Jiaxiao M. , Takhar Harpreet S. , Mahfuz Ali , Garcia Gildy S. , Menon Ramkumar , Getahun Darios
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Nearly 100% of North American women have detectable levels of flame retardants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in their plasma. These molecules have structural homology to thyroid hormones and may function as endocrine disruptors. Thyroid dysfunction has previously been associated with increased risk for preterm birth. Therefore, we conducted a multi-center, case-cohort study to evaluate if high plasma concentrations of a common PBDE congener in the first trimester increases the risk of preterm birth and its subtypes.

Methods

Pregnant women were recruited at the onset of initiation of prenatal care at Kaiser-Permanente Southern California (KPSC)-West Los Angeles and KPSC-San Diego medical centers. Plasma samples from women whose pregnancies ended preterm and random subset of those delivering at term were assayed for PBDE-47 and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) by immunoassay. Quartile cutoffs were calculated for the patients at term and used to determine if women with exposures in the 4th quartile are at increased risk for preterm birth using logistic regression.

Results

We found that high concentrations of PBDE-47 in the first trimester significantly increased the odds of both indicated (adjusted odds ratio, adjOR=2.35, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.31, 4.21) and spontaneous (adjOR=1.76, 95% CI: 1.02, 3.03) preterm birth. Regardless of pregnancy outcome, TSH concentrations did not differ between women with high and low concentrations of PBDE-47.

Conclusions

These results suggest that high plasma concentrations of PBDE-47 in the first trimester, increases the risk of indicated and spontaneous preterm birth.
Venous blood gas analysis in patients with COVID-19 symptoms in the early assessment of virus positivity
Authors: Elezagic Dzemal , Johannis Wibke , Burst Volker , Klein Florian , Streichert Thomas
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is currently a worldwide major health threat. Recognizing hypoxia in patients early on can have a considerable effect on therapy success and survival rate.

Methods

We collected data using a standard blood gas analyzer from 50 patients and analyzed measurements of partial pressure of carbon dioxide-pCO2, partial pressure of oxygen-pO2 and oxygen saturation-sO2, bicarbonate concentrations-HCO3− as well as ionized calcium concentrations. We further examined PCR test results for SARS-CoV-2 of the patients and analyzed differences between patients tested positive and those tested negative for the virus.

Results

Venous pCO2 was significantly higher whereas pO2 and sO2 were significantly lower in patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The pH, and ionized calcium concentrations of patients tested positive for the virus were significantly lower than in those tested negative.

Conclusions

Symptomatic SARS-CoV-2-positive patients upon admission to the emergency room exhibit lower venous blood levels of oxygen, pH, and calcium and higher levels of carbon dioxide compared to symptomatic SARS-CoV-2-negative patients. This blood gas analysis constellation could help in identifying SARS-CoV-2-positive patients more rapidly and identifying early signs of hypoxia.
Metaphors and their link to generational peer groups and popular culture in African youth languages
Authors: Hurst-Harosh Ellen , Kanana Fridah Erastus
Published: January 2021

This article focuses on Sheng and Tsotsitaal metaphors in order to highlight the centrality of generational peer groups and popular culture in the formation of linguistic and social meaning within these language practices. Drawing on data from a comparative database, the analysis considers aspects such as generational narratives, the transition of a metaphor from a generational peer group context into a conventionalised metaphor, as well as multiple salience and ambiguity. We illustrate the use of metaphor in youth language and its relationship to popular culture, to make the case that youth language involves the innovation of new terms from popular culture. Metaphors are mini-narratives that index the particular culturally- and contextually-shared experiences of a generation of young people, and for this reason tend to be specific to a peer group. We therefore maintain that the term ‘youth language’ is useful because youth continue to drive the relexicalization process, which is the core of phenomena such as Sheng and Tsotsitaal.
Development of an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model to predict sea surface temperature (SST)
Authors: Kale Semih
Published: January 2021

An accurate estimation of the sea surface temperature (SST) is of great importance. Therefore, the objective of this work was to develop an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model to predict SST in the Çanakkale Strait. The observed monthly air temperature, evaporation and precipitation data from the Çanakkale meteorological observation station were used as input data. The Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy inference system was applied. The grid partition method (ANFIS-GP) and the subtractive clustering partitioning method (ANFIS-SC) were used with Gaussian membership functions to generate the fuzzy inference system. Six performance evaluation criteria were used to evaluate the developed SST prediction models, including mean square error (MSE), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) and correlation of determination (R2). The dataset was randomly divided into training and testing datasets for the machine learning process. Training data accounted for 75% of the dataset, while 25% of the dataset was allocated for testing in ANFIS. The hybrid algorithm was selected as a training algorithm for the ANFIS. Simulation results revealed that the ANFIS-SC4 model provided a higher correlation coefficient of 0.96 between the observed and predicted SST values. The results of this study suggest that the developed ANFIS model can be applied for predicting sea surface temperature around the world.
Cardenolides and pentacyclic triterpenes isolated from Acokanthera oblongifolia leaves: their biological activities with molecular docking study
Authors: Abd-Alla Howaida I. , Soltan Maha M. , Hassan Amal Z. , Taie Hanan A. A. , Abo-Salem Heba M. , Karam Eman A. , El-Safty Mounir M. , Hanna Atef G.
Published: January 2021

Pentacyclic triterpenes and cardenolides were isolated from Acokanthera oblongifolia leaves. Their chemical structures were determined based on comprehensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. Their MIC was determined against 12 microorganisms. Their exerted cytotoxicity on the immortalized normal cells, hTERT-RPE1 was assessed by the sulforhodamine-B assay. The viral inhibitory effects of compounds against Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and H5N1 influenza virus IV were evaluated. Four in vitro antioxidant assays were performed in comparison with BHT and trolox and a weak activity was exhibited. Acovenoside A was with potent against H5N1-IV and NDV with IC50 ≤ 3.2 and ≤ 2.1 μg/ml and SI values of 93.75 and 95.23%, respectively, in comparison to ribavirin. Its CC50 record on Vero cells was > 400 and 200 μg/ml, respectively. Acobioside A was the most active compound against a broad range of microbes while Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most sensitive. Its MIC (0.07 μg/ml) was 1/100-fold of the recorded CC50 (7.1 μg/ml/72 h) against hTERT-RPE1. The molecular docking of compounds on human DNA topoisomerase I (Top1-DNA) and IV glycoprotein hemagglutinin were studied using MOE program. This study has introduced the cardenolides rather than triterpenoids with the best docking score and binding interaction with the active site of the studied proteins.
Premotor Ramping of Thalamic Neuronal Activity Is Modulated by Nigral Inputs and Contributes to Control the Timing of Action Release
Authors: Catanese Julien , Jaeger Dieter
Published: January 2021

The ventromedial (VM)/ventro-anterior-lateral (VAL) motor thalamus is a key junction within the brain circuits sustaining normal and pathologic motor control functions and decision-making. In this area of thalamus, on one hand, the inhibitory nigro-thalamic pathway provides a main output from the basal ganglia, and, on the other hand, motor thalamo-cortical loops are involved in the maintenance of ramping preparatory activity before goal-directed movements. To better understand the nigral impact on thalamic activity, we recorded electrophysiological responses from VM/VAL neurons while male and female mice were performing a delayed right/left decision licking task. Analysis of correct (corr) and error trials revealed that thalamic ramping activity was stronger for premature licks (impulsive action) and weaker for trials with no licks [omission (omi)] compared with correct trials. Suppressing ramping activity through optogenetic activation of nigral terminals in the motor thalamus during the delay epoch of the task led to a reduced probability of impulsive action and an increased amount of omissions trials. We propose a parsimonious model explaining our data and conclude that a thalamic ramping mechanism contributes to the control of proper timing of action release and that inhibitory nigral inputs are sufficient to interrupt this mechanism and modulate the amount of motor impulsivity in this task.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTCoordinated neural activity in motor circuits is essential for correct movement preparation and execution, and even slight imbalances in neural processing can lead to failure in behavioral tasks or motor disorders. Here we focused on how failure to regulate the control of activity balance in the motor thalamus can be implicated in impulsive action release or omissions to act, through an activity ramping mechanism that is required for proper action release. Using optogenetic activation of inhibitory basal ganglia terminals in motor thalamus we show that basal ganglia input is well positioned to control this ramping activity and determine the timing of action initiation.
From Circuits to Chromatin: The Emerging Role of Epigenetics in Mental Health
Authors: Mews Philipp , Calipari Erin S. , Day Jeremy , Lobo Mary Kay , Bredy Timothy , Abel Ted
Published: January 2021

A central goal of neuroscience research is to understand how experiences modify brain circuits to guide future adaptive behavior. In response to environmental stimuli, neural circuit activity engages gene regulatory mechanisms within each cell. This activity-dependent gene expression is governed, in part, by epigenetic processes that can produce persistent changes in both neural circuits and the epigenome itself. The complex interplay between circuit activity and neuronal gene regulation is vital to learning and memory, and, when disrupted, is linked to debilitating psychiatric conditions, such as substance use disorder. To develop clinical treatments, it is paramount to advance our understanding of how neural circuits and the epigenome cooperate to produce behavioral adaptation. Here, we discuss how new genetic tools, used to manipulate neural circuits and chromatin, have enabled the discovery of epigenetic processes that bring about long-lasting changes in behavior relevant to mental health and disease.
Sleep Analysis in AdultC. elegansReveals State-Dependent Alteration of Neural and Behavioral Responses
Authors: Lawler Daniel E. , Chew Yee Lian , Hawk Josh D. , Aljobeh Ahmad , Schafer William R. , Albrecht Dirk R.
Published: January 2021

Sleep, a state of quiescence associated with growth and restorative processes, is conserved across species. Invertebrates including the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansexhibit sleep-like states during development, satiety, and stress. Here, we describe behavior and neural activity during sleep and awake states in adultC. eleganshermaphrodites using new microfluidic methods. We observed effects of fluid flow, oxygen, feeding, odors, and genetic perturbations on long-term sleep behavior over 12 h. We developed a closed-loop sleep detection system to automatically deliver chemical stimuli to assess sleep-dependent changes to evoked neural responses in individual animals. Sleep increased the arousal threshold to aversive stimulation, yet the associated sensory neuron and first-layer interneuron responses were unchanged. This localizes adult sleep-dependent neuromodulation within interneurons presynaptic to the premotor interneurons, rather than afferent sensory circuits. However, sleep prolonged responses in appetitive chemosensory neurons, suggesting that sleep modulates responsiveness specifically across sensory systems rather than broadly damping global circuit activity.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMuch is known about molecular mechanisms that facilitate sleep control. However, it is unclear how these pathways modulate neural circuit-level sensory processing or how misregulation of neural activity contributes to sleep disorders. The nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansprovides the ability to study neural circuitry with single-neuron resolution, and recent studies examined sleep states between developmental stages and when stressed. Here, we examine an additional form of spontaneous sleep in adultC. elegansat the behavioral and neural activity levels. Using a closed-loop system, we show that delayed behavioral responses to aversive chemical stimulation during sleep arise from sleep-dependent sensorimotor modulation localized presynaptic to the premotor circuit, rather than early sensory circuits.
Documenting Extractive and Indigenous Futurities
Authors: Smith Patrick Brian
Published: January 2021

The aim of this article is to examine how different modes of moving image practice can expose and critique the impacts of extractive capitalism and settler colonialism on Indigenous communities in northern Canada. The article focuses on the work of two contemporary artist-filmmakers, Thirza Cuthand and Thomas Kneubühler. Their work has consistently engaged with the impacts of late capitalist violence and power within the context of settler-colonial Canada. The article argues that these filmmakers’ engagements and critiques of such formations of power are built around radically different framings and conceptualizations of futurity—as both a dominant logic within the exploitative rationale of extractive capitalist speculation and projection (Kneubühler), but also as a potential catalyst for Indigenous decolonization and self-determination (Cuthand).
Factors related to the loss of follow-up in pregnant women with syphilis: an integrative review
Authors: Silva Paula Lima da , Galvão Marli Teresinha Gimeniz , Silva Emanoelle Fernandes , Borges Braulio Vieira de Sousa , Lira Jefferson Abraão Caetano , Magalhães Rosilane de Lima Brito
Published: January 2021

Objective: to analyze factors related to the loss of follow-up in pregnant women with syphilis. Methods: Integrative review developed in six databases. The PICo strategy was used to elaborate the guiding question and select the descriptors and keywords through Boolean operators. 20 articles were included in the final sample. Results: the factors related to the loss of follow-up in pregnant women with syphilis were: age; schooling; diagnosis and late onset of treatment; prenatal failure and low adherence of the partner to treatment. In addition, the lack of knowledge of professionals about the management of syphilis and the failures in counseling were found to be factors inherent to the loss of follow-up. Conclusion: pregnant women under 20, low schooling, stigma, fear, non-treatment of partnership, inadequate treatment and lack of professional training and guidance to pregnant women were associated with the loss of follow-up of pregnant women with syphilis.
Moral sensitivity in the practice of Family Health Strategy professionals
Authors: Ferraz Cecília Maria Lima Cardoso , Vilela Gláucia de Souza , Moreira Danielle de Araújo , Brito Maria José Menezes
Published: January 2021

Objective: to understand the development of moral sensitivity in the practice of Family Health Strategy professionals. Methods: a unique case study, of qualitative approach, conducted with thirty-five professionals from the family health teams. Data collection occurred through interviews guided by semi-structured script and observation. The data was analyzed through Thematic Content Analysis. Results: the analysis revealed that factors related to work organization, interpersonal relationships and personal values influence the development of the moral sensitivity of professionals in family health teams. Conclusion: the development of the moral sensitivity of Family Health Strategy professionals is influenced by enabling and hindering factors that present themselves in daily work.