bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of Coating Thickness of Polyimide for Moisture Sensing
Authors: Rohizad Siti Nur Aizatti , Daud Suzairi , Noorden Ahmad Fakhrurrazi Ahmad 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This work focused on the effect of existence of polyimide coated fibre Bragg grating (FBG) for moisture sensing in stingless bee. The moisture sensitive material namely polyimide (PI) was used to improve the sensitivity of the fibre optic sensor. By taking the benefits from amine groups in 3-(aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES), PI is coated onto the segment of FBG through covalent interaction. Different thickness of PI coated FBG as well as determination and optimization of the designated sensor has been done. 3 layers of polyimide coating were used to improve the sensitivity of moisture sensing, and the sensitivity of coated fibre been analysed.
A novel hybrid feature extraction method using LTP, TFCM, and GLCM
Authors: Najjar Fallah H. , Al-Jawahry Hassan M. , Al-Khaffaf Mustafa Saleh , Al-Hasani Ahmed T. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Image classification and feature extraction have been studied extensively and used efficiently in several applications. This paper suggests a novel method by combining three main methods for texture feature extraction. The proposed method is based on Local Ternary Pattern (LTP), Texture Feature Coding Method (TFCM), and Gray Level Cooccurrence Matrix (GLCM). We have entitled our method as GCLTP which is stand for Gray Coding Local Ternary Pattern. The combination of LTP, TFCM, and GLCM is assigned a unique value used to extract the features of an image. GCLTP is tested using images are taken from the Brodatz database. A set of 22 features were extracted from images. GCLTP is experimentally accomplished a high accuracy in classification by using the most known classifiers.
All-Optical Tuning of Au Nanocluster Functionalized Microfibre Coil Resonator
Authors: Yin Yu , Li Shi , Wang Pengfei 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
An all-optical tunable microfibre coil resonator (MCR) functionalized using Au nanoclusters (AuNCs) was investigated and demonstrated. The MCR was manufactured by winding tapered fibre on a hollow rod of low refractive index polycarbonate (PC) resin to form a fluidic channel, and the AuNCs aqueous solution was injected into the channel to complete the functionalization process. The resonance wavelength and extinction ratio can be tuned using a pump laser with wavelength of 808 nm due to the photo-thermal effect and photon generated carriers from strong absorption of AuNCs at 808 nm, resulting light-matter interaction and providing all-optical tuning properties, including variations of resonance wavelength and extinction ratio. The variation rate of the resonance wavelength and extinction ratio were determined as 69 pm/mW and 0.459 dBm/mW. The response times of the MCR functionalized with the AuNCs are 11.99 s (rising) and 11.41 s (falling). The AuNCs functionalized MCR has several advantages compared to other tunable resonator devices, including easy fabrication, high tuning efficiency, low cost and all-fibre construction.
Temperature sensitivity of FBG coating with zinc oxide and silicon carbide
Authors: Mansor N F , Raja Ibrahim R K 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This work aims to evaluate the sensitivity of coated FBG in measuring non-thermal plasma temperature inside a dielectric barrier discharge reactor. The FBG sensor were coated with Zinc Oxide (ZnO) and Silicon Carbide (SiC) by using magnetron sputtering technique. Both materials are insulator hence suitable to probe temperature inside the plasma reactor. Results revealed that the temperature sensitivity of and SiC coated FBG were 12.6 pm/°C and 12.37 pm/°C, respectively (suggested to put both 2 decimal places). This means temperature sensitivity of ZnO is higher than bare FBG (12.43 pm/°C) while SiC coated FBG shows the lowest. The values show slightly different between each other and give less significant in sensitivity value. When applied it inside plasma, spectroscopic diagnostic result shows stable plasma throughout the time.
Preparation and Characterization of Biodegradable Polylactic Acid (PLA) Film for Food Packaging Application: A Review
Authors: Malek N S A , Faizuwan M , Khusaimi Z , Bonnia N N , Rusop M , Asli N A 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Biodegradable PLA which is produced by polymerization of lactic acid derived from the starch of plants is a good candidate for replacing the current petroleum-based polymers such as polystyrene (PS) or Polypropylene (PP) in food packaging application. These petroleum-based polymers do contribute to large-scale environmental pollution as it is a non-degradable polymer. Being classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for the food contact applications, PLA film for food packaging application can be synthesized in lab-scale and mass production by using solvent casting and injection molding which are common for the thermoplastic fabrication with the fast production and low in cost. The characterization methods used for the PLA film analysis can be done by the Universal Tensile machine (UTS) in which the main characteristics of the polymer film compatibility and its performance with the combined materials have been discussed in comparison with those of pure polymer films.
Investigating the Effects of Threatening Language, Message Framing, and Reactance in Opt-Out Organ Donation Campaigns
Authors: Miller Jordan , McGregor Lesley , Currie Sinéad , O’Carroll Ronan E 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Under opt-out organ donation policies, individuals are automatically considered to have agreed to donate their organs in the absence of a recorded opt-out decision. Growing evidence suggests that the language used within organ donation campaigns influences donor intentions and decision-making.

Purpose
As awareness campaigns to promote opt-out consent in the UK are ongoing, the objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of language and message framing used in opt-out organ donation campaigns on donor intentions and psychological reactance.

Methods
Individuals from Scotland and England (N = 1,350) completed this online experiment. Participants were randomized to view one of four messages, designed in the format of a newspaper article, which described the upcoming opt-out system. This followed a 2 × 2 design whereby the degree of threatening language (high threat vs. low threat) and message framing (loss vs. gain) of the newspaper article was experimentally manipulated. Measures of intention (pre-exposure and postexposure) and postmessage reactance (threat to freedom and anger and counter-arguing) were obtained.

Results
A mixed analysis of variance revealed a significant Group × Time interaction on donor intentions; post hoc analysis revealed that intentions significantly decreased for individuals exposed to the High threat × Loss frame article but significantly increased for those exposed to the High threat × Gain frame article.

Conclusions
In campaigns to promote opt-out legislation, high-threat language combined with loss-frame messages should be avoided. If high-threat language is used, gain-frame messaging that highlights the benefits of organ donation should also be incorporated.
Are presymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections in nursing home residents unrecognised symptomatic infections? Sequence and metadata from weekly testing in an extensive nursing home outbreak
Authors: van den Besselaar Judith H , Sikkema Reina S , Koene Fleur M H P A , van Buul Laura W , Oude Munnink Bas B , Frénay Ine , Witt René te , Koopmans Marion P G , Hertogh Cees M P M , Buurman Bianca M 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Sars-CoV-2 outbreaks resulted in a high case fatality rate in nursing homes (NH) worldwide. It is unknown to which extent presymptomatic residents and staff contribute to the spread of the virus.

Aims
To assess the contribution of asymptomatic and presymptomatic residents and staff in SARS-CoV-2 transmission during a large outbreak in a Dutch NH.

Methods
Observational study in a 185-bed NH with two consecutive testing strategies: testing of symptomatic cases only, followed by weekly facility-wide testing of staff and residents regardless of symptoms. Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal testing with RT-PCR for SARs-CoV-2, including sequencing of positive samples, was conducted with a standardised symptom assessment.

Results
185 residents and 244 staff participated. Sequencing identified one cluster. In the symptom-based test strategy period, 3/39 residents were presymptomatic versus 38/74 residents in the period of weekly facility-wide testing (P-value &lt; 0.001). In total, 51/59 (91.1%) of SARS-CoV-2 positive staff was symptomatic, with no difference between both testing strategies (P-value 0.763). Loss of smell and taste, sore throat, headache or myalga was hardly reported in residents compared to staff (P-value &lt;0.001). Median Ct-value of presymptomatic residents was 21.3, which did not differ from symptomatic (20.8) or asymptomatic (20.5) residents (P-value 0.624).

Conclusions
Symptoms in residents and staff are insufficiently recognised, reported or attributed to a possible SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, residents without (recognised) symptoms showed the same potential for viral shedding as residents with symptoms. Weekly testing was an effective strategy for early identification of SARS-Cov-2 cases, resulting in fast mitigation of the outbreak.
Laboratory Test Ordering Patterns in Pediatrics From Naturopaths and General Practitioners
Authors: Liao Hsuan-Chieh , Astion Michael , Dickerson Jane 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Naturopathic medicine emphasizes prevention and the self-healing process through natural therapies. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) use clinical laboratories as frequently as traditionally trained physicians. Here we evaluated the test-ordering patterns of NDs and general practitioners (GPs).

Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed from a tertiary pediatric hospital. We analyzed tests ordered by NDs who used laboratory services and compared the test ordering patterns with GPs from adolescent medicine, family medicine, or pediatric clinics. Requests were categorized into 10 groups. We determined the tests with the highest ordering frequencies, as well as the percentage of tests that had an abnormal result.

Results
NDs ordered more tests per patient per date of specimen collection compared with GPs. The most frequently ordered tests by NDs were trace elements and toxic metals (23.2% of total), allergens (21.8%), and general chemistry (15.3%). For the same test, the percentage of tests with an abnormal result was significantly lower for NDs than GPs.

Conclusions
We observed different ordering patterns between NDs and GPs. NDs ordered more esoteric tests and had lower rates of abnormal test results compared with GPs. Understanding the patterns of testing from different providers’ specialties is useful to choose effective laboratory stewardship interventions.
Real-time mapping of nanopore raw signals
Authors: Zhang Haowen , Li Haoran , Jain Chirag , Cheng Haoyu , Au Kin Fai , Li Heng , Aluru Srinivas 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Motivation
Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing devices support adaptive sequencing, in which undesired reads can be ejected from a pore in real time. This feature allows targeted sequencing aided by computational methods for mapping partial reads, rather than complex library preparation protocols. However, existing mapping methods either require a computationally expensive base-calling procedure before using aligners to map partial reads or work well only on small genomes.

Results
In this work, we present a new streaming method that can map nanopore raw signals for real-time selective sequencing. Rather than converting read signals to bases, we propose to convert reference genomes to signals and fully operate in the signal space. Our method features a new way to index reference genomes using k-d trees, a novel seed selection strategy and a seed chaining algorithm tailored toward the current signal characteristics. We implemented the method as a tool Sigmap. Then we evaluated it on both simulated and real data and compared it to the state-of-the-art nanopore raw signal mapper Uncalled. Our results show that Sigmap yields comparable performance on mapping yeast simulated raw signals, and better mapping accuracy on mapping yeast real raw signals with a 4.4× speedup. Moreover, our method performed well on mapping raw signals to genomes of size &gt;100 Mbp and correctly mapped 11.49% more real raw signals of green algae, which leads to a significantly higher F1-score (0.9354 versus 0.8660).

Availability and implementation
Sigmap code is accessible at https://github.com/haowenz/sigmap.

Supplementary information
Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Engineered microRNA-based regulatory element permits safe high-dose miniMECP2gene therapy in Rett mice
Authors: Sinnett Sarah E , Boyle Emily , Lyons Christopher , Gray Steven J 
Published: May 2021

AbstractMECP2 gene transfer has been shown to extend the survival of Mecp2−/y knockout mice modelling Rett syndrome, an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder. However, controlling deleterious overexpression of MECP2 remains the critical unmet obstacle towards a safe and effective gene therapy approach for Rett syndrome. A recently developed truncated miniMECP2 gene has also been shown to be therapeutic after AAV9-mediated gene transfer in knockout neonates.We show that AAV9/miniMECP2 has a similar dose-dependent toxicity profile to that of a published second-generation AAV9/MECP2 vector after treatment in adolescent mice. To overcome that toxicity, we developed a risk-driven viral genome design strategy rooted in high-throughput profiling and genome mining to rationally develop a compact, synthetic microRNA target panel (miR-responsive auto-regulatory element, ‘miRARE’) to minimize the possibility of miniMECP2 transgene overexpression in the context of Rett syndrome gene therapy. The goal of miRARE is to have a built-in inhibitory element responsive to MECP2 overexpression. The data provided herein show that insertion of miRARE into the miniMECP2 gene expression cassette greatly improved the safety of miniMECP2 gene transfer without compromising efficacy. Importantly, this built-in regulation system does not require any additional exogenous drug application, and no miRNAs are expressed from the transgene cassette.Although broad applications of miRARE have yet to be determined, the design of miRARE suggests a potential use in gene therapy approaches for other dose-sensitive genes.
Entrainment of Network Activity by Closed-Loop Microstimulation in Healthy Ambulatory Rats
Authors: Averna Alberto , Hayley Page , Murphy Maxwell D , Barban Federico , Nguyen Jimmy , Buccelli Stefano , Nudo Randolph J , Chiappalone Michela , Guggenmos David J 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
As our understanding of volitional motor function increases, it is clear that complex movements are the result of the interactions of multiple cortical regions rather than just the output properties of primary motor cortex. However, our understanding of the interactions among these regions is limited. In this study, we used the activity-dependent stimulation (ADS) technique to determine the short/long-term effects on network activity and neuroplasticity of intracortical connections. ADS uses the intrinsic neural activity of one region to trigger stimulations in a separate region of the brain and can manipulate neuronal connectivity in vivo. Our aim was to compare single-unit neuronal activity within premotor cortex (rostral forelimb area, [RFA] in rats) in response to ADS (triggered from RFA) and randomly-generated stimulation in the somatosensory area (S1) within single sessions and across 21 consecutive days of stimulation. We examined firing rate and correlation between spikes and stimuli in chronically-implanted healthy ambulatory rats during spontaneous and evoked activity. At the end of the treatment, we evaluated changes of synaptophysin expression. Our results demonstrated the ability of ADS to modulate RFA firing properties and to promote synaptogenesis in S1, strengthening the idea that this Hebbian-inspired protocol can be used to modulate cortical connectivity.
A Language of Her Own: Willful Displacement and Nomadic Subjectivity in Jhumpa Lahiri
Authors: walker rebecca 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
In Other Words (2016) is the first of Jhumpa Lahiri’s writings to be published in Italian, charting the journey to self-expression enabled by her twenty-year relationship with this foreign language. Tracing Lahiri’s literary production, this article argues that the autobiographical prose of In Other Words is facilitated by a series of “willful” displacements, reworking and revising the notion of displacement, which is a pervasive theme of Lahiri’s earlier work. Moreover, it is precisely by means of these self-conscious geographical, bodily, linguistic, and literary dislocations that Lahiri articulates a kind of shifting or nomadic subjectivity, where otherness and multiplicity are re-privileged as sources of creative energy and self-affirmation.
Variables affecting the quality of anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation patients newly initiating vitamin K antagonists: insights from the national and multicentre SULTAN registry
Authors: Rivera-Caravaca José Miguel , Badimón Lina , Ferreira-Gonzalez Ignacio , Gómez-Doblas Juan José , Roca-Luque Ivo , Lekuona Iñaki , Jiménez-Candil Javier , Rodríguez-Padial Luis , González-Juanatey Carlos , Calvo-Jambrina Román , Fácila Lorenzo , Ruiz-Ortiz Martín , Anguita Manuel , Marín Francisco 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Aims
Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) are effective drugs reducing the risk for stroke in atrial fibrillation (AF), but the benefits derived from such therapy depend on the international normalized ratio (INR) maintenance in a narrow therapeutic range. Here, we aimed to determine independent variables driving poor anticoagulation control [defined as a time in therapeutic range (TTR) &lt;65%] in a ‘real world’ national cohort of AF patients.

Methods and results
The SULTAN registry is a multicentre, prospective study, involving patients with non-valvular AF from 72 cardiology units expert in AF in Spain. At inclusion, all patients naïve for oral anticoagulation were started with VKAs for the first time. For the analysis, the first month of anticoagulation and those patients with &lt;3 INR determinations were disregarded. Patients were followed up during 1 year. A total of 870 patients (53.9% male, the mean age of 73.6 ± 9.2 years, mean CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED of 3.3 ± 1.5 and 1.4 ± 0.9, respectively) were included in the full analysis set. In overall, 7889 INR determinations were available. At 1-year, the mean TTR was 63.1 ± 22.1% and 49.2% patients had a TTR &lt; 65%. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that coronary artery disease [odds ratio (OR) 1.81, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14–2.87; P = 0.012] and amiodarone use (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.01–2.34; P = 0.046) were independently associated with poor quality of anticoagulation (TTR &lt;65%).

Conclusion
This study demonstrated that the quality of anticoagulation in AF patients newly starting VKAs is sub-optimal. Previous coronary artery disease and concomitant use of amiodarone were identified as independent variables affecting the poor quality of VKA therapy during the first year.
Within-Person Associations of Self-Reports of Memory Impairment and Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults: Moderation of Relationships Over Time by Personality
Authors: Mogle Jacqueline , Hill Nikki L , Bratlee-Whitaker Emily , Bhargava Sakshi 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Objectives
The current study examined within-person associations of self-reports of impaired current memory functioning and perceived decline with depressive symptoms in older adults without cognitive impairment, and whether these associations were moderated by individuals’ levels of neuroticism, conscientiousness, and extraversion.

Methods
Samples were drawn from the Einstein Aging Study, Rush Memory and Aging Project (MAP), Minority Aging Research Study (MARS), Health and Retirement Study (HRS), and National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), with over 8,000 participants (65+ years) included across data sets. In a series of coordinated analyses, multilevel linear models tested within-person relationships over periods of up to 22 years.

Results
Across HRS and NHATS samples, self-reports of impaired current memory functioning covaried with depressive symptoms over time. This association was moderated by neuroticism, such that the association was stronger for individuals with higher levels of neuroticism. Across all samples, perceived memory decline covaried with depressive symptoms over time. This association was moderated by neuroticism in MAP/MARS, HRS, and NHATS, such that the association was stronger for individuals with higher levels of neuroticism.

Discussion
Self-reports of impaired current memory functioning and perceived memory decline are important determinants of older adults’ psychological well-being. In our results, at times when older adults perceive poorer memory functioning or decline, they also tend to report more depressive symptoms. Further, results from two larger data sets suggest that individuals’ level of neuroticism may determine the extent to which self-reports of memory impairment and depressive symptoms covary over time.
Can telemedicine address neurologic health disparities in rural Guatemala: a health promotor educational intervention study
Authors: Adcock Amelia , Frey Jessica E 
Published: May 2021

Summary
The global burden of neurologic disease is high and its impact manifests in health disparities observed in rural communities of limited resources like those surrounding San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. Telehealth may be one method to close these gaps by offering a virtual neurology curriculum. The goal of this project was to determine the pervasiveness of neurologic disease in San Lucas Tolimán and to increase interest and knowledge in neurology topics for local health promotors. A neurologic needs assessment was performed during the initial site visit. This information was subsequently used to create monthly health promotor neurology-based workshops and remote consultations delivered via a telehealth platform over the following year. The 29 health promotors were surveyed before and after the neurology course to measure self-reported knowledge of variable topics as well as their interest in neurology and how effective the remote lectures were. The needs assessment identified at least 68 different patients with neurologic diseases, the most common being headaches and seizures. The health promotors’ knowledge of several neurologic diseases as well as their comfort level diagnosing a condition based on a description of neurologic symptoms significantly increased following the year-long neurology course. The lectures were convenient, easy to see and hear virtually, and increased the health promotors’ interest in neurology. Telehealth is an acceptable and feasible method of delivering educational neurology topics relevant to rural communities. Future, longer-term studies are needed to determine if telehealth interventions such as these impact neurologic patient outcomes.