bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study on Quantitative Characterization of Morphological Characteristics and High Temperature Performance Evaluation of Coarse Aggregate Based on Computer Vision
Authors: Liu Zhanliang , Zhang Chen , Shao Linlong , Wang Jiangfeng 
Published: February 2021

The morphological characteristics of aggregate include outline shape, angularity, and surface texture, which determine the mutual extrusion and friction between aggregates, and significantly affect the performance of asphalt pavement. At present, the research on the morphological characteristics of coarse aggregate is mainly focused on indoor visual identification technology (AIMS, XCT, etc.), in which the applicability of the proposed aggregate shape characterization index is weak, and these instruments could not serve the practical engineering well. In this article, the Coarse Aggregate Morphological Identification System (CAMIS) is developed based on computer vision technology, and the system can recognize the shape features of aggregates above 2.36 mm particle size and carry out uninterrupted feeding and removal based on the mechanical arm system, which can realize large sample detection. Based on CAMIS aggregate identification system and laboratory tests (rutting test, dynamic modulus test, and penetration shear test), the shape identification and performance test of aggregate samples from construction site are carried out, and an aggregate performance evaluation index, CEI, suitable for high-temperature areas is proposed in combination with the improved response surface method. The processing parameters of vertical shaft impact aggregate crusher are optimized based on the CEI index, and the recommended processing parameters are verified by laboratory tests. The results show that the morphological characteristics of coarse aggregate affect the high temperature performance in order angularity, needle flake, axial coefficient, and convexity. The combination of processing parameters of vertical axis impact crusher is recommended to be of 45 m/s rotational speed, 3 t/h feed quantity, and 30% air intake. Verified by laboratory tests, the aggregate identification system CAMIS developed in this article and the proposed aggregate performance evaluation index, CEI, are highly reliable.
Paediatric Medicines in Europe: The Paediatric Regulation—Is It Time for Reform?
Authors: Toma Maddalena , Felisi Mariagrazia , Bonifazi Donato , Bonifazi Fedele , Giannuzzi Viviana , Reggiardo Giorgio , de Wildt Saskia , Ceci Adriana ,   TEDDY European Network of Excellence for Paediatric Research
Published: February 2021

Objectives: In this paper, we investigated the effects of the European Paediatric Regulation (EC) N° 1901/2006 with respect to satisfying the paediatric therapeutic needs, assessed in terms of the increased number of paediatric medicinal products, new therapeutic indications in specific high-need conditions (neonates, oncology, rare disease, etc.) and increased number of paediatric clinical studies supporting the marketing authorisation.Methods: We analysed the paediatric medicinal products approved by the European Medicines Agency in the period January 2007-December 2019, by collecting the following data: year of approval, active substance, legal basis for the marketing authorisation, type of medicinal product (i.e., chemical, biological, or ATMP), orphan drug status, paediatric indication, Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical code (first-level), number and type of paediatric studies. Data were compared with similar data collected in the period 1996–2006.Results: In the period January 1996–December 2019, in a total of 1,190 medicinal products and 843 active substances, 34 and 38%, respectively, were paediatric. In the two periods, before and after the Paediatric Regulation implementation, the paediatric/total medicinal products ratio was constant while the paediatric/total active substances ratio decreased. Moreover, excluding generics and biosimilars, a total of 106 and 175 paediatric medicines were granted a new paediatric indication, dosage or age group in the two periods; out of 175, 128 paediatric medicines had an approved Paediatric Investigational Plan. The remaining 47 were approved without an approved Paediatric Investigational Plan, following the provisions of Directive 2001/83/EC and repurposing an off-patent drug. The analysis of the clinical studies revealed that drugs with a Paediatric Investigational Plan were supported by 3.5 studies/drug while drugs without a Paediatric Investigational Plan were supported by only 1.6 studies/drug.Discussion: This report confirms that the expectations of the European Paediatric Regulation (EC) N° 1901/2006 have been mainly satisfied. However, the reasons for the limited development of paediatric medicines in Europe, should be further discussed, taking advantage of recent initiatives in the regulatory field, such as the Action Plan on Paediatrics, and the open consultation on EU Pharmaceutical Strategy.
Blood NCAPH2 Methylation Is Associated With Hippocampal Volume in Subjective Cognitive Decline With Apolipoprotein E ε4 Non-carriers
Authors: Chen Ying , Li Tao-Ran , Hao Shu-Wen , Wang Xiao-Ni , Cai Yan-Ning , Han Ying 
Published: February 2021

Objective: This study assessed the methylation of peripheral NCAPH2 in individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), identified its correlation with the hippocampal volume, and explored whether the correlation is influenced by apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4) status.Methods: Cognitively normal controls (NCs, n = 56), individuals with SCD (n = 81), and patients with objective cognitive impairment (OCI, n = 51) were included from the Sino Longitudinal Study on Cognitive Decline (NCT03370744). All participants completed neuropsychological assessments, blood tests, and structural MRI. NCAPH2 methylation was compared according to the diagnostic and APOE ε4 status. Partial correlation analysis was conducted to assess the correlations between the hippocampal volume, cognitive tests, and the NCAPH2 methylation levels.Results: Individuals with SCD and patients with OCI showed significantly lower levels of NCAPH2 methylation than NCs, which were independent of the APOE ε4 status. The NCAPH2 methylation levels and the hippocampal volumes were positively correlated in the SCD APOE ε4 non-carriers but not in the OCI group. No association was found between the NCAPH2 methylation levels and the cognitive function.Conclusion: Abnormal changes in blood NCAPH2 methylation were found to occur in SCD, indicating its potential to be used as a useful peripheral biomarker in the early stage of Alzheimer's disease screening.
Enablers to Exercise Participation in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: Health Professional Perspectives
Authors: Morris Meg E. , Slade Susan C. , Bruce Christopher , McGinley Jennifer L. , Bloem Bastiaan R. 
Published: February 2021

Background: People living with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) can experience considerable difficulties with movement, walking, balance, and oculomotor control. The role of exercises and physical activities in mitigating the motor and non-motor symptoms of PSP remains uncertain.Aims: The aim of this study was to identify the perspectives and beliefs of health professionals about the benefits, enablers, and barriers to participation in exercise and physical activity across the course of disease progression of PSP.Methods: Qualitative methods, within a phenomenological framework, were used to obtain nursing and allied health professional perspectives and recommendations. Focus group and in-depth interview questions were derived from a systematic review on exercise for PSP. Expert opinions also guided the interviews, which were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and de-identified. Two researchers independently conducted a thematic analysis.Results: Nineteen health professionals participated from the disciplines of nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology. Four main themes emerged: (i) exercise and physical activities are important for living well with PSP; (ii) provision of information about the benefits of exercise and physical activities facilitates uptake; (iii) interdisciplinary teams work together to improve outcomes; and (iv) care partners can assist with the implementation of exercise and physical activities.Conclusion: Health professionals advocated physical therapies for people living with PSP. The expectation is that structured exercises and physical activities can help to optimize health and well-being, enabling people to continue to participate in social roles. The actual merits of such interventions must now be tested in large-scale controlled clinical trials.
LCN2 Is a Potential Biomarker for Radioresistance and Recurrence in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Meng-Xia , Wang Li , Zeng Lei , Tu Zi-Wei 
Published: February 2021

BackgroundRadioresistance-induced local failure, which can result in residual or recurrent tumors, remains one of the major causes of treatment failure in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Lipocalin 2 (LCN2) is known to play important roles in cancer initiation, progression, and treatment responses. However, its role in the radioresistance of NPC remains unclear.MethodsMicroarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) was screened for candidate biomarkers relating to the radioresistance of NPC. The expression of LCN2 in NPC cell lines was verified by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blotting. The effects of knockdown or overexpression of LCN2 on NPC radiosensitivity were examined using a soft agar colony formation assay and a γH2AX assay. LCN2 expression in NPC specimens was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Survival outcomes were analyzed. A possible correlation between LCN2 and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1A) was examined by western blotting and a tissue microarray.ResultsLCN2 was highly expressed in the radioresistant NPC cell line CNE2R. Knocking down LCN2 enhanced the radiosensitivity of NPC cells by impairing their ability to repair DNA damage or proliferate, while ectopic expression of LCN2 conferred additional radioresistance to NPC cells. Immunohistochemical analysis of 100 NPC specimens revealed that LCN2 expression was significantly upregulated in radioresistant NPC tissues and was associated with NPC recurrence. Furthermore, a significant correlation between the expression of LCN2 and HIF-1A was detected.ConclusionLCN2 is associated with radioresistance and recurrence in NPC and may facilitate the development of a radioresistant phenotype through interacting with HIF-1A. Our data indicate that LCN2 is a promising target for predicting and overcoming radioresistance in NPC.
Selection of Treatment Regimens for Recurrent Cervical Cancer
Authors: Chao Xiaopei , Song Xiaochen , Wu Huanwen , You Yan , Wu Ming , Li Lei 
Published: February 2021

ObjectiveThe selection of individualized treatment for recurrent cervical cancer is challenging. This study aimed to investigate the impact of various therapies on survival outcomes after recurrence.MethodsEligible patients were diagnosed with recurrent cervical cancer between March 2012 and April 2018. Postrecurrence progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were investigated in the whole cohort and in subgroups, categorized by recurrence site and prior radiotherapy history, using a multivariate model that incorporated treatment for primary and recurrent tumors, histological pathology, and FIGO staging.ResultsTwo hundred and sixty recurrent cervical cancer patients were included. As of March 1, 2020, the median postrecurrence PFS and OS were 7.0 (range 0-94) and 24.0 (1.8-149.1) months, respectively. In a multivariate model measured by PFS, radiotherapy was superior to other therapies for the whole cohort (p=0.029) and recurrence only within the pelvic cavity (p=0.005), but the advantages of radiotherapy disappeared in patients with a history of radiotherapy (p values &gt;0.05). For recurrence only beyond the pelvic cavity, combination therapy resulted in improved PFS (p=0.028). For recurrence both within and beyond the pelvic cavity, no therapy regimen provided additional PFS benefits (p values &gt;0.05). Radiotherapy and combination therapy were also associated with improved postrecurrence OS for recurrence within the pelvic cavity (p=0.034) and only beyond the pelvic cavity (p=0.017), respectively.ConclusionsIn cervical cancer patients, postrecurrence radiotherapy can improve PFS and OS for patients with recurrence within the pelvic cavity and without prior radiotherapy. For recurrence beyond the pelvic cavity or cases with a history of radiotherapy, combination or individualized therapy may provide potential survival benefits.
Prevalence and Predictors of Self-Medication Practice Among Teachers’ Education Training College Students in Amhara Region, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mekuria Abebe Basazn , Birru Eshetie Melese , Tesfa Melkamu Teshome , Geta Mestayet , Kifle Zemene Demelesh , Amare Tsegaw 
Published: February 2021

Background:Self-medication practice is the use of medications without healthcare professional requests. It can lead to inappropriate medication usage, wastage of resources, increased chance of microbial resistance, and adverse drug reactions. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the prevalence and associated factors of self-medication practice among teachers’ education training college students in the Amhara region, Ethiopia.Methods:A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted on 344 teachers’ education training college students in the Amhara region, Ethiopia, from January 1 to February 28, 2020. Data on sociodemography, the practice of self-medication, and factors associated with self-medication practice were collected through a self-administered structured questionnaire. Systematic random sampling was used to select participants. Descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done to determine various variables and factors associated with self-medication practice.Results:Out of the 344 respondents, 234 (68.0%) practiced self-medication. The most commonly cited indication for self-medication practice was headache (75, 32.05%), followed by abdominal discomfort (53, 22.6%). The respondents who were older than 26 years of age (AOR: 2.47, 95% CI: 1.18–3.94), were in the third year of study (AOR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.94–5.79), lived in urban residence (AOR: 2.97, 95% CI: 1.06–3.64), had accessibility to a nearby pharmacy (AOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.43–4.46), and had peer/family pressure (AOR: 2.34, 95% Cl: 1.53–3.56) were significantly associated with self-medication practice.Conclusion:More than two-thirds of the study participants practiced self-medication. Being from an urban area, having access to a private pharmacy, and higher year of study positively affect self-medication practice.
TCAD Modeling of Surface Radiation Damage Effects: A State-Of-The-Art Review
Authors: Morozzi Arianna , Moscatelli Francesco , Croci Tommaso , Passeri Daniele 
Published: February 2021

A comprehensive numerical model which accounts for surface damage effects induced by radiation on silicon particle detectors is presented with reference to the state-of-the-art Synopsys Sentaurus Technology CAD (TCAD) tool. The overall aim of this work is to present the “Perugia 2019 Surface” damage modeling scheme, fully implemented within the TCAD environment, which effectively describes the surface damage effects induced by radiation in silicon sensors relying on a limited number of parameters relevant for physics. To this end, extensive measurement campaigns have been recently performed on gated-diodes and MOS capacitors at Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) in Italy, Hamamatsu Photonics (HPK) in Japan and Infineon Technologies (IFX) in Austria on both n-type and p-type substrates (with and without p-spray isolation implants), in order to extrapolate the relevant parameters which rule the surface damage effects. The integrated interface trap density and the oxide charge density, have been determined before and after X-ray irradiation with doses ranging from 0.05 to 100 Mrad(SiO2), for each specific foundry and technology flavor. The main guidelines of this study are the versatility and generality of the simulation approach.
Early and Mid-Term Implications of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Physical, Behavioral and Mental Health of Healthcare Professionals: The CoPE-HCP Study Protocol
Authors: Khanji Mohammed Y. , Maniero Carmela , NG Sher , Siddiqui Imrana , Gupta Jaya , Crosby Louise , Antoniou Sotiris , Khan Rehan , Kapil Vikas , Gupta Ajay 
Published: February 2021

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented strain to healthcare systems worldwide and posed unique challenges to the healthcare professionals (HCPs) and the general public.ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health, behavioral, and physical wellbeing of HCPs in the early and mid-term periods of the pandemic in comparison to non-HCPs. Thus, facilitating and guiding optimum planning and delivery of support to HCPs.Methods and AnalysisAn observational cross-sectional survey and cohort study aiming to enroll over 1050 participants (minimum, 800 HCPs and 250 controls). Study questionnaires will be completed at baseline and after 6-weeks and 4-months. Recruitment initiated July 2020. The study was designed in London, United Kingdom, but open to participants worldwide. Baseline: Questionnaires comprising of validated self-administered screening tools for depression, anxiety, sleep-related issues, wellbeing, and burnout. The questionnaires also explore changes in behavior and physical wellbeing of the participants. In addition, associations of these mental health and behavioral factors with work-related factors and support will be explored. Six-weeks and 4-months follow-up: Follow-up questionnaires will assess change in symptoms of anxiety and depression, sleep disorders, use of alcohol and other substances, behavioral or interpersonal relationship changes. Physical wellbeing will be assessed through the presence of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection and absence from work. We will also evaluate the impact of variable provision of personal protection equipment (supply and training), extended working hours, and concern for the wellbeing of family members, anxiety levels, and evidence of burnout.Statistical ConsiderationsThe study has 80% power to detect a 10% difference of combined depression and/or anxiety symptoms between the groups using two-sided type 1 error at 0.05 at baseline. Assuming that only 50% of these HCPs agree to be a part of a cohort survey, we will have 80% power to detect around 12% difference in the two groups in reported physical symptoms (20% vs. 32.3%), or prevalence of depression and/or anxiety at the end of the study.EthicsThe study was approved by the Cambridge East, Research Ethics Committee (20/EE/0166).Trial Registration NumberClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04433260.
Serious Game Platform as a Possibility for Home-Based Telerehabilitation for Individuals With Cerebral Palsy During COVID-19 Quarantine – A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Silva Talita Dias da , Silva Paula Lumy da , Valenzuela Elisa de Jesus , Dias Eduardo Dati , Simcsik Amanda Orasmo , de Carvalho Mariana Giovanelli , Fontes Anne Michelli Gomes Gonçalves , Alberissi Camila Aparecida de Oliveira , Araújo Luciano Vieira de , Brandão Murilo Vinícius da Costa , Dawes Helen , Monteiro Carlos Bandeira de Mello 
Published: February 2021

IntroductionThere is a need to maintain rehabilitation activities and motivate movement and physical activity during quarantine in individuals with Cerebral Palsy (CP).ObjectiveThis paper sets out to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of using computer serious game in a non-immersive virtual reality (VR) implemented and evaluated completely remotely in participants with CP for Home-Based Telerehabilitation during the quarantine period for COVID-19.MethodsUsing a cross-sectional design, a total of 44 individuals participated in this study between March and June 2020, 22 of which had CP (14 males and 8 females, mean age = 19 years, ranging between 11 and 28 years) and 22 typically developing individuals, matched by age and sex to the individuals with CP. Participants practiced a coincident timing game1 and we measured movement performance and physical activity intensity using the rating of perceived exertion Borg scale.ResultsAll participants were able to engage with the VR therapy remotely, reported enjoying sessions, and improved performance in some practice moments. The most important result in this cross-sectional study was the significant increasing in rating of perceived exertion (through Borg scale) in both groups during practice and with CP presenting a higher rating of perceived exertion.ConclusionChildren with CP enjoyed participating, were able to perform at the same level as their peers on certain activities and increased both their performance and physical activity intensity when using the game, supporting the use of serious games for this group for home therapy and interactive games.Clinical Trials Registrationhttps://Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04402034. Registered on May 20, 2020.
Alcohol- and Cigarette-Use Related Behaviors During Quarantine and Physical Distancing Amid COVID-19 in Indonesia
Authors: Hanafi Enjeline , Siste Kristiana , Limawan Albert Prabowo , Sen Lee Thung , Christian Hans , Murtani Belinda Julivia , Adrian  , Siswidiani Levina Putri , Suwartono Christiany 
Published: February 2021

Background: In light of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Indonesia implemented large-scale social restrictions (pembatasan sosial berskala besar/PSBB) to combat the spread of COVID-19, which might influence addictive behaviors. The current study aimed to explore the fluctuation of substance use during the pandemic and association of physical distancing and related factors toward consumption of alcohol and cigarettes.Method: An online survey was conducted from April 28 to June 1, 2020. Data regarding sociodemographic information, physical distancing profile, alcohol and cigarette usages, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), Cigarette Dependence Scale (CDS), Symptom Checklist-90, and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were collected. A total of 4,584 respondents from all 34 provinces in Indonesia completed the survey. Data were summarized descriptively and analyzed using chi-square, ANOVA, and multinomial regression on SPSS 23.0 for Windows.Results: This study found that during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia alcohol consumption was 9.50% and daily cigarette smoking was 20.3%. Around 44.5% and 47.6% of respondents reported stable alcohol consumption and cigarette consumption, respectively. The mean AUDIT score was 3.52 ± 4.66 and the mean CDS score was 24.73 ± 8.86. Physical distancing was not correlated to any substance use changes. Increased alcohol consumption was negatively correlated with being unmarried and positively correlated with a higher PSQI score. Decreased alcohol use positively correlated with living in PSBB-implementing provinces and higher AUDIT scores when compared to stable alcohol drinking. Increased cigarette smoking was positively correlated with being male, unmarried, and higher CDS scores. Reduced cigarette smoking was negatively correlated with living in provinces implementing PSBB, higher CDS scores, and phobic anxiety, hostility, and psychoticism subscales of SCL-90.Discussion and Conclusion: The prevalence of alcohol and cigarette consumption changes showed a similar trend with other available studies in other countries. This study established that substance use was mainly sustained with a smaller proportion of respondents amplifying their substance usages. The changes were correlated with PSBB policy but not the practice of physical distancing. Psychiatry and addiction services in Indonesia should be strengthened to cope with the increased burden of psychological distress. Future studies should conduct more comparisons to determine whether the overall rising intensity of consumption was maintained post-pandemic and delineate acute psychopathologies' effects on substance use.