bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANNs-Based Method for Solving Partial Differential Equations : A Survey
Authors: Adi Pratama Danang , Abu Bakar Maharani , Man Mustafa , Mashuri M.
Published: February 2021

Conventionally, partial differential equations (PDE) problems are solved numerically through discretization process by using finite difference approximations. The algebraic systems generated by this process are then finalized by using an iterative method. Recently, scientists invented a short cut approach, without discretization process, to solve the PDE problems, namely by using machine learning (ML). This is potential to make scientific machine learning as a new sub-field of research. Thus, given the interest in developing ML for solving PDEs, it makes an abundance of an easy-to-use methods that allows researchers to quickly set up and solve problems. In this review paper, we discussed at least three methods for solving high dimensional of PDEs, namely PyDEns, NeuroDiffEq, and Nangs, which are all based on artificial neural networks (ANNs). ANN is one of the methods under ML which proven to be a universal estimator function. Comparison of numerical results presented in solving the classical PDEs such as heat, wave, and Poisson equations, to look at the accuracy and efficiency of the methods. The results showed that the NeuroDiffEq and Nangs algorithms performed better to solve higher dimensional of PDEs than the PyDEns.
Нестационарная фильтрация потока «нефть-CO$_2$» в однородном пласте при различных термобарических условиях
Authors: Радаев Андрей Викторович , Radaev Andrey Viktorovich , Плохотников Сергей Павлович , Plokhotnikov Sergey Pavlovich , Тазюков Фарук Хоснутдинович , Tazyukov Faruk Khosnutdinovich , Сабирзянов Андрей Наилевич , Sabirzyanov Andrei Nailevich , Салимьянов Инис Тахирович , Salimyanov Inis Takhirovich
Published: February 2021

Разработан экспериментальный стенд для исследования гидродинамики потока
«нефть-сверхкритический СО$_2$» в однородной терригенной пористой среде при
давлениях до 25 МПа и температурах до 473К. Экспериментальный стенд позволяет измерять растворимость диоксида углерода в нефти и нефти в диоксиде углерода в процессе нестационарной фильтрации системы «нефть-сверхкритический СО$_2$»
в низкопроницаемой однородной пористой среде в динамическом режиме. Проведены исследования растворимости модельной маловязкой нефти при вытеснении
ее из модели терригенного однородного нефтяного пласта, проведены исследования динамической вязкости жидкой субстанции «нефть-сверхкритический СО$_2$».
На основании полученных экспериментальных данных по теплофизическим свойствам систем «нефть-сверхкритический СО$_2$» разработана математическая модель
процесса нестационарной фильтрации потока «нефть-сверхкритический СО$_2$» в
низкопроницаемой однородной пористой среде. Задача решалась численно методом конечных разностей. В процессе дискретизации использовалась схема неявная
по давлению и явная по насыщенности (так называемый метод IMPES). А именно,
на каждый момент времени рассчитывалось давление из системы линейных уравнений, при этом насыщенность бралась из предыдущего временного слоя. Затем
насыщенность пересчитывалась явно с использованием найденных давлений. При
дискретизации производной для соседних узлов берется проницаемость из узла, в
котором давление больше (то есть использовалась схема «вверх по потоку»). Сходимость решения контролировалась проведением численных экспериментов на
сгущающихся сетках. Разработанная математическая модель позволила рассчитать
значения коэффициента вытеснения реальной нефти. Выявлены механизмы увеличения нефтеотдачи из проницаемых и низкопроницаемых пористых сред.
The Relationship between Innovation, Financial Development, and Economic Growth : Testing in ASEAN Countries for the Period 1986-2015
Authors: Saputri Diah , Harmadi Harmadi
Published: February 2021

This study aims to determine the relationship between innovation, financial development, and economic growth. Innovation is measured by patents, and economic growth is measured by the percentage of GDP per capita, while financial development is measured by seven indicators, namely banking sector development. Index formation is done through the Principal Component Analysis (PCA), with the note of the variable were defined earlier. This study uses data from ten ASEAN member countries with observation periods from 1986-2015. Research data is secondary data derived from the World Development Indicator and Global Financial Development at the World Bank. The analytical method used in this study is granger causality test, VECM, and IRF and FEVD analysis. The results showed that there were several differences in results in the direction of the three relationships. This difference is due to the difference in proxy that used in the study. There are three cases in this study. Broadly speaking, the relationship between financial development and economic growth is a unidirectional causality from financial development to economic growth. On the other hand, testing on economic growth with innovation shows a bidirectional causality. On the relationship between financial development and innovation, there are unidirectional causality from innovation to financial development. Nevertheless, the relationship between the three variables shows a long-term relationship.
Resolution of electric field distribution and conductivity in a non-uniform electric field: A teaching proposal
Authors: Erol Mustafa , Çolak İldahan Özdeyiş
Published: February 2021

This work offers an alternative teaching proposal for the instruction of challenging concepts of electric field distribution and specific conductivity in a non-uniform electric field. Specifically, electric field lines are initially plotted and later on the relation between the electric potential difference and electric field strength is validated.  Additionally, on a selected electric field line, electric field strength versus path length and also conductivity versus path length are plotted to comprehend and teach exceedingly difficult concepts of uniform and non-uniform electric fields. In order to accomplish those tasks, a basic conducting sheet, that is simply a wet cardboard, is designed as a part of the apparatus together with a dc power supply, a multi meter and connecting cables. The established method is interesting in the sense that designed the conducting wet cardboard is novel, very practical, beneficial and minimal costing, hence the approach offers physics educators fresh teaching routes and opportunities to clarify the puzzling concepts of electrical field and conductivity.
Micro-Hydro Power Plants (MHPP): Technical and analytical studies in creating experimental learning media for physics students
Authors: Anisa Zuffa , Apprianda Anggun , Novianto Herta , Rachman Indriyani
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, direct media use in learning energy is rarely found. Therefore, the authors intended to design a mini micro-hydro power plant (MHPP) in order to give direct experiences to students. This study generally aims to develop a mini MHPP consisting of equipment design, component selection, and the MHPP assembly. A test on discharge, heights, and produced power is then conducted. The data acquired are then analyzed in terms of either Pteotirik or Preal power using a predetermined equation. An analysis to the factors influencing the P values is then carried out. The power input of  resulted from the water discharge management is 35.64 mW, while that of the power output  is 9,61 mW. The efficiency of the MHPP set is by 26.96% which is considered quite low due to such factors as turbine blades, penstock pipes, generators, and the shift from water potential energy to other types of energies which is inevitable. It is expected that the developed mini MHPP is applicable as practicum learning media giving a lot of such learning experiences to students as to identify how hydroelectric power plant is, how the water energy shifts into electric energy, how high the electricity produced is, and to analyze factors influencing how high and low the electricity produced by a power plant.
Description in course of mathematical methods for physics and possible development of course program
Authors: Sujito Sujito , Liliasari Liliasari , Suhandi Andi , Soewono Edy
Published: February 2021

The essence of mathematics is a thought process in constructing, applying abstract ideas, and their logical interrelationships. This process is essential in solving quantitative and qualitative physics problems, where abstract ideas are required to represent physical phenomena. This study aims to give detail description of the process of mathematical methods for physics lectures. Improvement in pre-service physics teachers' critical thinking is designed to strengthen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The methodology of research is qualitative descriptive. The research subjects were 97 pre-service physics teachers who had followed the mathematical methods for physics courses and teaching lecturers. Data collection consisted of questionnaires, and interviews. Observations are needed for describing the implementation of mathematical methods for physics courses, document analysis, and data collection, including lesson plan and assessment. The results showed that mathematical methods for physics courses need improvement in the learning process. It is concluded that lecture activities integrating computers into physics and mathematics are necessary to be implemented. It is expected that the program will improve students' ability in problem-solving, critical thinking skills, communication, digital era literacy, creative and innovative creations, and group work. Specifically, implementation of the program in the ordinary differential equations course can provide learning experiences to students regarding the process of reasoning in physics using mathematical principles.
Automated Construction of Expeditionary Structures (ACES) : Energy Modeling
Authors: Vavrin John L. , Al-Chaar Ghassan K. , Kreiger Eric L. , Case Michael P. , Diggs Brandy N. , Liesen Richard J. , Yu Justine , Barna Lynette A. , Rushing Todd S. , Burroughs Jedadiah F. , Hamoush Sameer , Megri Ahmed C.
Published: February 2021

The need to conduct complex operations over time results in U.S. forces remaining in deployed locations for long periods. In such cases, more sustainable facilities are required to better accommodate and protect forward deployed forces. Current efforts to develop safer, more sustainable operating facilities for contingency bases involve construction activities that redesign the types and characteris-tics of the structures constructed, reduce the resources required to build, and reduce resources needed to operate and maintain the com-pleted facilities. The Automated Construction of Expeditionary Structures (ACES) project was undertaken to develop the capability to “print” custom-designed expeditionary structures on demand, in the field, using locally available materials with the minimum number of personnel. This work investigated large-scale automated “additive construction” (i.e., 3D printing with concrete) for construction applications. This document, which documents ACES energy and modeling, is one of four technical reports, each of which details a major area of the ACES research project, its research processes, and associated results, including: System Requirements, Construction, and Performance; Energy and Modeling; Materials and Testing; Architectural and Structural Analysis.
Mitochondrial estrogen receptors alter mitochondrial priming and response to endocrine therapy in breast cancer cells.
Authors: Kutuk Ozgur , Karakas Bahriye , Aka Yeliz , Giray Asli , Basaga Huveyda , Acikbas Ufuk , Gul Ozgur , Temel Sehime Gulsun
Published: February 2021

Breast cancer is the most common cancer with a high rate of mortality and morbidity among women worldwide. Estrogen receptor status is an important prognostic factor and endocrine therapy is the choice of first-line treatment in ER-positive breast cancer. However, most tumors develop resistance to endocrine therapy. Here we demonstrate that BH3 profiling technology, in particular dynamic BH3 profiling can predict the response to endocrine therapy agents as well as development of acquired resistance in breast cancer cells independent of estrogen receptor status. Immunofluorescence analysis and subcellular fractionation experiments revealed distinct ER-α and ER-β subcellular localization patterns in breast cancer cells, including mitochondrial localization of both receptor subtypes. shRNA-mediated depletion of ER-β in breast cancer cells led to resistance to endocrine therapy agents and selective reconstitution of ER-β in mitochondria restored sensitivity. Notably, mitochondria-targeted ER-α did not restore sensitivity, even conferred further resistance to endocrine therapy agents. In addition, expressing mitochondria-targeted ER-β in breast cancer cells resulted in decreased mitochondrial respiration alongside increased total ROS and mitochondrial superoxide production. Furthermore, our data demonstrated that mitochondrial ER-β can be successfully targeted by the selective. ER-β agonist Erteberel. Thus, our findings provide novel findings on mitochondrial estrogen signaling in breast cancer cells and suggest the implementation of dynamic BH3 technique as a tool to predict acquired endocrine therapy resistance.
Polarization-transparent silicon photonic add-drop multiplexer with wideband hitless tuneability
Authors: Morichetti Francesco , Milanizadeh Maziyar , Petrini Matteo , Zanetto Francesco , Ferrari Giorgio , de Aguiar Douglas Oliveira , Guglielmi Emanuele , Sampietro Marco , Melloni Andrea
Published: February 2021

Flexible optical networks require reconfigurable devices with operation on a wavelength range of several tens of nanometers, hitless tuneability (i.e. transparency to other channels during reconfiguration), and polarization independence. All these requirements have not been achieved yet in a single photonic integrated device and this is the reason why the potential of integrated photonics is still largely unexploited in the nodes of optical communication networks. Here we report on a fully-reconfigurable add-drop silicon photonic filter, which can be tuned well beyond the extended C-band (almost 100 nm) in a complete hitless (>35 dB channel isolation) and polarization transparent (1.2 dB polarization dependent loss) way. This achievement is the result of blended strategies applied to the design, calibration, tuning and control of the device. Transmission quality assessment on dual polarization 100 Gbit/s (QPSK) and 200 Gbit/s (16-QAM) signals demonstrate the suitability for dynamic bandwidth allocation in core networks, back-haul networks, intra- and inter-datacenter interconnects.
Perinatal Outcomes in Monozygotic Pregnancies Resulting From Assisted Reproductive Techniques: A Single-Center 6-Year Experience Base on a Large Cohort of Pregnancies
Authors: Güngör Nur , Gürbüz Tuğba
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Monozygotic twin (MZT) pregnancies increase the risk of maternal and infant mortality and reveal many complications. In the present study, we aimed to share our assisted reproductive techniques (ART) through the analysis of perinatal outcomes in MZT pregnancies.Materials and Methods: In this retrospective clinical cross-sectional study, 1159 cycles in the In vitro fertilization (IVF) program between October 2014 and December 2019 were retrospectively evaluated and perinatal outcomes and general clinical conditions were analyzed. Results: 16 cycles with MZT were achieved with IVF, resulting in a MZT incidence of 1.38%. The MZT incidence aged≤35 and >35 years were 0.2% and 1.1%, respectively. Eight MZT pregnancies resulted in a live birth, while 5 MZT resulted in an abortus. A significant positive correlation was found between the number of trials and the age of female (r:0.674; p=0.004) and male (r:0.657; p=0.006). Cumulus-Oocytes Complexes (COC) (r:0,635; p=0,008), Metaphase II Oocyte (MIIO) (r:0,627; p=0,009), Pronucleus Oocyte (PO) (r:0,585; p=0,017) were correlated with serum AMH levels. Number of MZT was positively correlated with the male age (r:0,527; p=0,036), while negatively correlated with embryo transfer day (ETd) (r: -0,548; p=0,028). Conclusion: The pregnancies that we identified and achieved with IVF had a similar incidence of MZT with the literature, although its risk was more for women >35 years. MZT pregnancies can become a problem as the increasing number of IVF applications continue due to its potential risks for both maternal and fetus.
Spray-assisted formation of micrometer-sized emulsions
Authors: Steinacher Mathias , Amstad Esther
Published: February 2021

Emulsion drops with defined sizes are frequently used to conduct chemical reactions on picoliter scales or as templates to form microparticles. Despite tremendous progress that has been achieved in the production of emulsions, the controlled formation of drops with sizes of a few µm at high throughputs remains challenging. Drops of this size, however, are in high demand for example for many pharmaceutical, food, and material science applications. Here we introduce a scalable method to produce water-in-oil emulsion drops possessing controlled diameters of just a few microns: We fabricate calibrated aerosol drops and transfer them into an oil bath to form stable emulsions at rates up to 480 µl min-1 of the dispersed phase. We demonstrate that the emulsification is thermodynamically driven such that design principles to successfully form emulsions can easily be deduced. We employ these emulsion drops as templates to form well-defined µm-sized hydrogel spheres and capsules.
PD-L1 and TP-53 mRNA and microRNAs Expression in Liquid Biopsy of NSCLC Patients.
Authors: Grenda Anna , Kuźnar-Kamińska Barbara , Krzyżanowska Natalia , Krawczyk Paweł , Janiszewska Mariola , Batura-Gabryel Halina , Milanowski Janusz
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The expression of PD-L1 (programed cell death ligand 1) protein on neoplastic cells is a factor qualifying cancer patients for immunotherapy. However, the status of PD-L1 mRNA expression in plasma or serum has not been well studied in cancer patients. TP-53 (Tumor Protein p53) as tumor suppressor affects the expression of many genes, including microRNAs that regulate PD-L1 expression. The purpose of our study was to evaluate usefulness of analysis of PD-L1 mRNA, microRNAs and TP-53 mRNA expression in liquid biopsy in non-invasive diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer patients (NSCLC).
Material and methods

We examined the expression the expression of TP-53 and PD-L1 mRNA as well as seven microRNAs (miR-17, miR-93, miR-142, miR-519, miR-526, miR-34a-5p and miR-34a-3p) in plasma obtained from 80 NSCLC patients and 39 healthy volunteers. We used quantitative PCR preceded by reverse transcription method.
Results

We observed PD-L1 mRNA expression only in 6 (7.5%) NSCLC patients. We showed that expression of TP-53 mRNA and each tested microRNA were significantly higher in healthy individuals than in NSCLC patients. Based on the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis, we found that TP-53 mRNA and each of the examined microRNAs expression were good diagnostic markers for non-invasive diagnosis of NSCLC. We found a significant, negative correlation between TP-53 mRNA and miR-17 (R=-045, p = 0.0005) as well as miR-34a-5p (R=-0.32, p = 0.04) expression in patients with advanced NSCLC.
Conclusion

The decreased expression of TP-53 mRNA may influence the disruption of microRNAs which could be involved in the regulation of PD-L1 expression in NSCLC patients
Is Age of Self-Harm Onset Associated With Increased Frequency of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Suicide Attempts in Adolescent Outpatients?
Authors: Brager-Larsen Anne , Zeiner Pål , Klungsøyr Ole , Mehlum Lars
Published: February 2021

Background
Self-harm in adolescents is an increasing public health concern and an important risk factor for suicide. We aimed to examine how age of self-harm onset in adolescents was associated with frequency of subsequent suicidal and non-suicidal self-harm (NSSI) episodes, and how age of onset and duration of self-harm may influence the frequency of self-harm.
Methods
Data from 103 adolescents with recurrent self-harm recruited from child and adolescent psychiatric outpatient clinics were collected through clinical interviews and self-reports, and analysed with negative binomial and hurdle models.
Results
A lower age of self-harm onset and a longer duration of self-harm were both significantly associated with increased frequency of subsequent episodes of NSSI and risk of a first suicide attempt. There was an increase in repeated suicide attempts when the age of onset of self-harm decreased and the duration increased, and dramatically more for long duration of NSSI before first suicide attempt.
Conclusion
Initiating self-harm behaviour at the youngest age had the highest risk of increased frequency of NSSI and suicide attempts. Longer duration of self-harm behaviour increased this risk. This underlines the importance of early identification of self-harm behaviour in adolescents, and the use of effective interventions.
Changes in Atlantic Major Hurricane Frequency Since the Late-19th Century
Authors: Vecchi Gabriel , Landsea Chris , Zhang Wei , Villarini Gabriele , Knutson Thomas
Published: February 2021

Atlantic hurricanes are a major hazard to life and property1,2,3, and a topic of intense scientific interest4,5,6. Historical changes in observing practices limit the utility of century-scale records of Atlantic major hurricane frequency7-13. To evaluate past changes in frequency, we have here developed a homogenization method for Atlantic hurricane and major hurricane frequency over 1851-2019. We find that recorded century-scale increases in Atlantic hurricane and major hurricane frequency, and associated decrease in USA hurricanes strike fraction, are consistent with changes in observing practices and not likely a true climate trend. After homogenization, increases in basin-wide hurricane and major hurricane activity since the 1970s14-15 are not part of a century-scale increase, but a recovery from a deep minimum in the 1960s-1980s. These results support the notion that internal climate variability and aerosol-induced mid-to-late-20th century major hurricane frequency reductions16-24 have probably masked century-scale greenhouse-gas warming contributions to North Atlantic major hurricane frequency.
A Novel Glycolysis-related Gene Signature for Survival Prediction in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Qin Haimei , Wang Junli , Liao Biyun , Liu Zhonglin , Wang Rong
Published: February 2021

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is most diagnosed at an advanced stage with poor prognosis. Single gene biomarkers cannot have enough predictive ability in HNSCC. Glycolysis participating in cancers was verified. Thus, this study aimed to identify glycolysis-related gene signature predict the outcome of HNSCC. Methods: The mRNA expression data of HNSCC downloaded The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project was analyzed by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). We use the Cox proportional regression model to construct a prognostic model. Kaplan–Meier and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were employed to estimate the signature. We also analyzed the relationship of the signature and cancer subtypes. Results: We identified nine glycolysis-related genes including G6PD, EGFR, ALDH2, GPR87, STC2, PDK3, ELF3, STC1 and GNPDA1 as prognosis-related genes signature in HNSCC. HNSCC patients were divided into high and low risk group according to the signature. High risk group showed more poor prognosis and the risk score can precisely predict the prognosis of HNSCC. Additionally, the signature also can be used in cancer subtypes. Conclusion: This study established the 9-mRNA glycolysis signature which may serve as a prospective biomarker for prognosis and novel treatment target in HNSCC.
Study on the Transmission of COVID-19 in Hubei Province Based on SEIR Model with Intervention Measures
Authors: HE Zhengsiyu , XIE Ling , LIU Suhong
Published: February 2021

Background At the end of 2019, an unidentified coronavirus, named as “COVID-19” by WHO, has broken out in Wuhan, Hubei Province. We aimed to simulate the development trend of COVID-19 in Wuhan and Hubei as well as estimate the number of COVID-19 cases with the government control policies and traffic control.Methods We collected the COVID-19 data in Wuhan and Hubei (January 1, 2020 to April 8, 2020) and simulated three situations about COVID-19 epidemic trend: non-interference, government controlling behavior and traffic control by the SEIR model to analyzed the development and influence of the epidemic.Results We adopted the SEIR model to estimate the number of COVID-19 cases in Hubei peaked on the 107th day without human control, and the number in Wuhan peaked on the 51st day after the lockdown of Wuhan. The number of new cases in Hubei and Wuhan presented a skewed normal distribution in the time series. Government intervention and traffic control had a certain inhibitory effect on the daily increase of COVID-19 cases. During the period from January 23 to April 8, 2020, there was a difference of 1,253,433 cases between the daily number of confirmed cases and the actual number of confirmed cases in Hubei under the simulated state of without human control. Also, there was a difference of 953,202 cases between thedaily number of confirmed cases and the actual number of confirmed cases in Wuhan under the simulated state of without human control.Conclusion The actual COVID-19 outbreak quantity conforms to the simulation results, secondly the government control behavior and the traffic control can effectively inhibit COVID-19 to spread and the efficient can reach 52%. In other countries or regions, an effective intervention measures can control the spread of the epidemic. The earlier the control started and the stronger the control intensity was, the more effective the intervention for the COVID-19 epidemic was, so appropriate to cut off the route of transmission as soon as possible.
Trans-genetic effects of circular RNA expression quantitative trait loci and potential causal mechanisms in autism
Authors: Mai Te-Lun , Chen Chia-Ying , Chiang Tai-Wei , Chuang Trees-Juen
Published: February 2021

Genetic risk variants and transcriptional expression changes in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been widely identified, but their causal relationship is largely unknown. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are abundant in brain and often serve as upstream regulators of mRNAs. By integrating RNA-sequencing with genotyping data from autistic brains, we accessed expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) of circRNAs (circQTLs) that influenced expression of distant genes (trans-eGenes) and constructed 43,372 circQTL-trans-eGene pairs. Mediation test suggested that 19,393 pairs were significantly cis-mediated by expression of circRNAs near the circQTLs; meanwhile, causal inference test (CIT) suggested 1,000 pairs influencing 708 trans-eGenes, wherein trans-eGene expression mediated trans-eQTL effects on ASD diagnosis. The 708 trans-eGenes were enriched for ASD risk genes and overrepresented in neurons in the upper neocortical layer. Integration of mediation test- and CIT-passing pairs further constructed 257 circQTL-circRNA-trans-eGene-ASD propagation paths. These findings increase our understanding of causative biology and cryptic regulatory mechanisms underlying ASD.
Health Facility-based Counselling and Community Outreach are Associated with Maternal Dietary Practices in a Cross-sectional Study from Tanzania
Authors: Dearden Kirk A. , Bishwakarma Ramu , Crookston Benjamin T. , Masau Benesta T. , Mulokozi Generose I.
Published: February 2021

Background: Anemia and underweight among women are major public health challenges. Access to health services can improve dietary behaviors and women’s nutritional status. We examined whether exposure to health services is associated with women’s dietary practices in Tanzania.Methods: Data come from a two-stage, randomized baseline survey among 5,000 female primary caregivers prior to implementing a maternal and child nutrition program. We ran frequencies on women’s exposure to existing health facility-based counselling, community health worker visits, and attendance at women’s support groups. We examined associations between exposure to these interventions and maternal diets and adjusted for sociodemographic covariates using ordinary least squares regression and ordered logistic regression.Results: A third of the sample (34.1 percent) had received any antenatal care (ANC) during their most recent pregnancy or had been advised by anyone about nutrition (37.0 percent). 68.0 percent had never had a community health worker (CHW) speak to them about their children’s health and 9.4 percent had participated in a women’s group. Only 8.0 percent of mothers ate more than usual during pregnancy and 7.1 percent ate more types of foods. After adjusting for mother’s age, education and household assets, women who received nutrition advice were 1.3 times (95 percent CI: 1.1, 1.7) more likely than mothers who did not to eat more during pregnancy. Receiving ANC and advice on nutrition before, during, and after pregnancy and delivery were highly associated with the mother eating more types of foods. Hearing from a CHW about children’s health but not support group attendance was often associated with various dietary practices. Almost all measures of access to health services were significantly associated with mothers’ frequency of eating in the previous 24 hours. Receiving advice on nutrition during pregnancy and after giving birth and CHW contact were associated with mothers’ dietary diversity in the previous 24 hours. Conclusions: Several program exposure variables—especially being counselled about nutrition—were associated with improved dietary practices. Improving service delivery at scale may contribute to improved dietary behaviors in larger populations, given the associations we describe, along with findings from the existing literature.
Silver and Gold Nanoparticles Induced Differential Antimicrobial Potential in Calli Cultures of Prunella Vulgaris
Authors: Ahmad Nisar , Muhammad Jan , Khan Khalil , Ali Wajid , Fazal Hina , Ali Mohammad , Rahman Latif-ur , Khan Hayat , Abbasi Bilal Haider , Hano Christophe
Published: February 2021

Background: Prunella vulgaris is medicinally important plant containing high-valued chemical metabolites like Prunellin which belong to family Lamiaceae and it is also known as self-heal. In this research, calli culture exposed to differential ratios of gold (Au) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles (1:2, 1:3, 2:1 and 3:1) along with naphthalene acetic acid (2.0 mg NAA) were investigated for antimicrobial potential. A well diffusion method was used for antimicrobial properties. Results: Here, two concentrations (1 and 2 mg/6 µl) of all treated calli cultures and wild plants were used against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. typhi, B. atrophaeus, B. subtilis, A. tumefaciens, E. caratovora and C. albicans. DMSO and antibiotics were used as negative and positive controls. Here, the calli exposed to gold (Au) NPs + 2.0 mg NAA displayed the highest activity (25.7 mm) against S. typhi than other extracts, which was considered the most susceptible species, while A. tumefaciens and C. albicans was the most resistance species. A possible mechanism of calli induced nanoparticles was also investigated for cytoplasmic leakage. Conclusion: From the above data it is concluded that the medicinal Prunella vulgaris is important plant for the development of anti-microbial drugs and applicable in various pharmaceutical research.
Latent Class Trajectories of Biochemical Parameters and Their Relationship With Risk of Mortality Among Acute Organophosphorus Poisoning Patients
Authors: Farooqui Waqas Ahmed , Uddin Mudassir , Qadeer Rashid , Shafique Kashif
Published: February 2021

Objectives: To determine varying biochemical parameters and their relationship with mortality among organophosphorus poisoning patients through a latent class trajectory analysis.Methods: It was a retrospective cohort study. Patients with organophosphorus poisoning (OP) were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi from August 2010 to September 2016. A total of 299 OP poisoning patients’ data along with demographic and biochemical parameters were retrieved from medical records. The key outcome measure was in-hospital mortality among acute poisoning patients accounting for gender, age, elapse time since poison ingestion, ICU stay, and biochemical parameters including random blood sugar, creatinine, urea, and electrolytes (sodium, chloride, potassium). The trajectories of parameters were formed using longitudinal latent profile analysis. These trajectories and repeated measures were used as independent variables to determine and compare the risk of mortality by Cox-Proportional-Hazards models. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: A total of 299 patients’ data were included with a mean age of 25.4±9.7 years and in-hospital mortality was 13.7%(n=41). In trajectory analysis, patients with high-declining and normal-increasing creatinine, high-remitting, and normal-increasing urea, high-remitting sodium, trajectories observed the highest mortality i.e. 67%(2/3), 75%(6/8), 67%(2/3), 75%(6/8), and 80% (4/5) respectively compared with other trajectories. On multivariable analysis, patients in high-declining creatinine class were sixteen times [HR:15.7,95%CI:3.4-71.6], normal-increasing was fifteen times [HR:15.2,95%CI:4.2-54.6] more likely to die compared with those who had normal consistent creatinine levels. Patients in extremely high-remitting urea trajectory were fifteen times [HR:15.4,95%CI:3.4-69.7], normal-increasing urea trajectory was four times [HR:3.9,95%CI:1.4-11.5] and in high-remitting sodium, the trajectory was six times [HR:5.6,95%C.I:2.0-15.8] more likely to die compared with those who were in normal-consistent trajectories of urea and sodium respectively.Conclusion: Using the latent profile approach, biochemical parameters (creatinine, urea, and sodium levels) were significantly associated with increased risk of mortality among OP poisoning patients.
Myocardial Remodeling in Ischemic Heart Disease – Imaging from Cell to Organ Level by Synchrotron Propagation Based X-Ray Phase-Contrast Imaging
Authors: Planinc Ivo , Garcia-Canadilla Patricia , Dejea Hector , Ilic Ivana , Guasch Eduard , Zamora Monica , Crispi Fatima , Stampanoni Marco , Milicic Davor , Bijnens Bart , Bonnin Anne , Cikes Maja
Published: February 2021

Background: Cardiovascular research is in an ongoing quest for a superior imaging method to integrate gross-anatomical information with microanatomy, combined with quantifiable parameters of cardiac structure. In recent years, synchrotron radiation-based X-ray Phase Contrast Imaging (X-PCI) has been extensively used to characterize soft tissue in detail.The objective was to use X-PCI to comprehensively quantify ischemic remodeling of different myocardial structures, from cell to organ level, in a rat model of myocardial infarction.Methods and Results: Myocardial infarction-induced remodeling was recreated in a well-established rodent model. Ex vivo rodent hearts were imaged by propagation based X-PCI using two configurations resulting in 5.8µm and 0.65µm effective pixel size images. The acquired datasets were used for a comprehensive assessment of macrostructural changes including the whole heart and vascular tree morphology, and quantification of left ventricular myocardial thickness, mass, volume, and organization. On the meso-scale, tissue characteristics were explored and compared with histopathological methods, while microstructural changes were quantified by segmentation of cardiomyocytes and calculation of cross-sectional areas.Conclusions: Propagation based X-PCI provides detailed visualization and quantification of morphological changes on whole organ, tissue, vascular as well as individual cellular level of the ex vivo heart, with a single, non-destructive 3D imaging modality.
hRUV: Hierarchical approach to removal of unwanted variation for large-scale metabolomics data
Authors: Kim Taiyun , Tang Owen , Vernon Stephen , Kott Katharine , Koay Yen Chin , Park John , James David , Speed Terence , Yang Pengyi , O´Sullivan John , Figtree Gemma , Yang Jean
Published: February 2021

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics studies are increasingly applied to large population cohorts, which run for several weeks or even years in data acquisition. This inevitably introduces unwanted intra- and inter-batch variations over time that can overshadow true biological signals and thus hinder potential biological discoveries. To date, normalisation approaches have struggled to mitigate the variability introduced by technical factors whilst preserving biological variance, especially for protracted acquisitions. Here, we propose a study design framework with an arrangement for embedding biological sample replicates to quantify variance within and between batches and a novel workflow that uses these replicates to remove unwanted variation in a hierarchical (hRUV) manner. We use this design to produce a dataset of more than 1,000 human plasma samples run over an extended period of time. We demonstrate significant improvement of hRUV over existing methods in preserving biological signals whilst removing unwanted variation for large scale metabolomics studies. Our novel tools not only provide a strategy for large scale data normalization, but also provides guidance on the design strategy for large omics studies.
The Association Between Intraoperative Objective Neuromuscular Monitoring and Rocuronium Consumption During Laparoscopic Abdominal Surgery: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Takahoko Kenichi , Iwasaki Hajime , Luthe Sarah Kyuragi , Matsuno Takashi , Matsuno Risako , Kanda Hirotsugu
Published: February 2021

Background: Rocuronium consumption with or without intraoperative objective neuromuscular monitoring in clinical settings of unrestricted use of sugammadex and neuromuscular monitoring has not been reported. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the use of intraoperative objective neuromuscular monitoring and rocuronium consumption in patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgery.Methods: Data were collected by reviewing electronic medical records of patients who received laparoscopic abdominal surgery under general anesthesia with rocuronium and reversal with sugammadex at Asahikawa Medical University Hospital between May 2017 and April 2018. Multiple linear regression model was developed to compare the amount of rocuronium consumption per weight per hour (mg/kg/h) between the group in which intraoperative objective neuromuscular monitoring was used (NM+ group) and the group in which intraoperative neuromuscular monitoring was not used (NM- group). Additionally, we performed an interaction test with reference to the results of the subgroup analysis.Results: A total of 429 patients were evaluated, with 371 patients (86%) included in NM+ group and 58 patients (14%) in NM- group. In the NM+ group, 94% of the patients received additional rocuronium after reappearance of TOF response while 6% of the patients received additional rocuronium before reappearance of TOF in order to maintain post-tetanic count. Log-transformed rocuronium consumption between NM+ group and NM- group was not significantly different (back-transformed β-coefficients [95%CI]: 1.054 [0.946–1.174]; P=0.34). Male sex and body mass index (BMI) were independent factors associated with 15% (0.854 [0.789–0.925]; P<0.001) and 3% (for every 1 kg/m2 increase in BMI) (0.970 [0.962­–0.979]; P<0.001) decrease in intraoperative rocuronium consumption, respectively. A significant interaction was detected between the use of neuromuscular monitoring and age≥65 (β: 0.843 [0.759–0.936]; P=0.001).Conclusions: This single center retrospective study demonstrated that although the use of intraoperative objective neuromuscular monitoring was not an individual factor influencing intraoperative rocuronium consumption, the use of intraoperative neuromuscular monitoring reduced rocuronium consumption by approximately 15% during laparoscopic abdominal surgery in elderly patients.
Associations Between Periconceptional Lifestyle Behaviour Change and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Maas Veronique Y.F. , Poels Marjolein , Ruiter Marije Lamain-de , Kwee Anneke , Bekker Mireille N. , Franx Arie , Koster Maria P.H.
Published: February 2021

Background
While the effect of prenatal exposure to unhealthy lifestyle is widely evidenced, little is known about these exposures in the periconception period. We investigated associations between periconceptional lifestyle behaviour change and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Methods
A retrospective secondary analysis took place within a prospective multicentre cohort study in the Netherlands, including 3,684 pregnant women. Baseline characteristics and preconceptional and first-trimester lifestyle behaviours were assessed through a self-administered questionnaire. Adverse pregnancy outcomes (hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP), small for gestational age (SGA), gestational diabetes (GDM) and spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB)) were reported by healthcare professionals. Data were collected between December 2012 - January 2014 and analysed between August - December 2019, using multivariate logistic regression.
Results
Overweight, and especially obese women, have the highest odds of developing any adverse pregnancy outcome (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.61 (95%CI 1.31–1.99) and aOR 2.85 (95%CI 2.20–3.68), respectively), particularly HDP and GDM. Women who prenatally quit smoking had a lower odds of SGA (aOR 1.14 (95%CI 0.59–2.21)), while women who continued smoking attained higher odds (aOR 1.91 (95%CI 1.05–1.15)). Women who did not use folic acid tended to have a higher odds of developing adverse pregnancy outcomes (aOR 1.28 (95%CI 0.97–1.69)), while women who prenatally started folic acid did not (aOR 1.01 (95%CI 0.82–1.25)).
Conclusions
Our results indicate that smoking cessation, having a lower BMI and initiating folic acid supplements preconceptionally may decrease the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, intervening as early as the preconception period could benefit the health of future generations.
Effects of Chinese Medical Pricing Reform on the Structure of Hospital Revenue and Healthcare Expenditure in County Hospital: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Liu Mengling , Jia Mingyuan , Lin Qian , Zhu Jiawei , Wang Dong
Published: February 2021

Background

China has initiated a medical pricing reform to combat the overuse of drugs and relieve the financial burden of patients. This paper aims to analyze the effect of medical pricing reform on revenue structure and healthcare expenditure of county public hospitals in Guangdong province.
Methods

Based on the monthly data from January 2013 to August 2019, we use interrupted time series design to evaluate the effects of medical pricing reform on healthcare expenditure in both outpatients and inpatients. A counterfactual is also established to examine the net effect of the policy.
Results

The proportion of drug revenue decreased from 35% in 2015 to 29.7% in 2019, and the revenue from medical services and inspection increased 3.2% and 3% respectively. Meanwhile, the increasing trend of total expenditure and its main components is slowed down, especially the drug expense and medical consumable expense for inpatients after the Zero Mark-up Drug policy. However, the growth of inspection expense for outpatients continues to increase, while the healthcare expenditure for inpatients experiences an instant increase after the Zero Mark-up Medical Consumables policy.
Conclusion

The medical pricing reform is a valuable attempt in controlling the unreasonable increase of medical expenses. In the meantime, the unexpected increase in inspection expenditure and insufficient compensation from medical service adjustment should draw the attention of the policymakers.
Quantitative Visual Tests in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients According to Three Different Lights With Different Color-Rendering Index
Authors: Kim Sang Woo , Go YoungWook , Kang Sangok , Lee Chang Kyu
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To compare quantitative visual tests, such as visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and color vision tests in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients according to three different light systems with different color-rendering index (CRI).
Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 20 eyes in 20 patients with POAG. Three different light systems consisting of a 3-band fluorescent lamp (CRI 80), a white LED (CRI 75), and a quantum dot LED (CRI > 95) were used. All lights had the same illuminance of 230 lux to exclude illuminance effects. The visual testing included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) using an ETDRS chart, a CSV-1000E contrast test, and a color test performed by the Farnsworth Munsell 100-hue test.
Results

There was no significant difference in BCVA (p = 0.86). There were no significant differences in the detail contrast tests according to the three light systems (p = 0.98, p = 0.93, p = 0.86, respectively, p = 0.70). There was no significant difference between the three light systems (p = 0.08). However, the color test scores with a quantum dot LED were significantly lower than those of the white LED and 3-band fluorescent lamp (p = 0.03 and 0.047, respectively).
Conclusion

POAG patients did not show significant differences in visual acuity scores and contrast test scores, expressed as black and white symbols, according to the different light systems. However, POAG patients tested under a quantum dot LED (CRI > 95) could distinguish color differences better than in the other light systems.
Liquid-phase Exfoliated Two-dimensional Bi Nanosheet as a Durable Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Duan Chenguang , Liu Huating , Huang Zongyu , Qiao Hui , Zhou Yang , Liao Gengcheng , Liu Yundan , Qi Xiang
Published: February 2021

Electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution is an exercisable way to achieve large-scale application of hydrogen energy. It is of great significance to develop an effect, stable and cost-effective electrocatalyst. Here, we applied the two-dimensional (2D) bismuth (Bi) to the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution, and proposed the strategies to enhance the catalytic performance of the catalyst. The exfoliated Bi nanosheets via sonication assisted liquid-phase exfoliation display higher electrocatalytic activity (overpotential of -958 mV vs RHE at 10 mA cm− 2) compared to the bulk counterpart. Theoretical calculations about Gibbs free energy from the hydrogen adsorption for 1 layer, 2 layers and 5 layers Bi also manifest the decrease of thickness is favorable for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). To further evaluate the electrocatalytic performance of Bi nanosheets, the typical parameters measured in different H+ concentration (C[H+]) are carried out. The improved catalytic activity obtained in 0.5 M H2SO4 is attributed to enhancing the hydrogen adsorption and accelerating the charge transport on the surface of catalyst. Moreover, the durability of Bi nanosheets electrode has been texted, where the current is not evident fluctuation during the 40000 s electrolysis measurement indicating its excellent stability. The present work expands the application of Bi in the catalysis and provides the simple strategies to improve its hydrogen evolution performance.