bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATION OF EFFICIENCY AND THE DEGREE OF DEPENDENCE OF HEALTH INSTITUTION PERFORMANCE INDICATORS ON THE LEVEL OF ADMINISTRATIVE COMPETENCE OF THE MANAGER
Authors:   Kazan State Medical University, SHULAEV ALEXEY V. , KHISAMIEV RUSTEM SH. ,   Medical Care unit of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in the Republic   of Tatarstan, Russia, ZINOVIEV PAVEL V. ,   Kazan State Medical University
Published: November 2021

Aim. The aim of the study was to develop proposals for improving the administrative competencies in managers of health institutions. Material and methods. The main data for the study were obtained by questioning a group of managers of health institutions, namely state autonomous health care institutions of the Republic of Tatarstan. In total the questionnaire survey covered 31 health institutions. A total of 73 persons, including 31 heads of health institutions of the Republic of Tatarstan and 42 specialists from among the heads of departments and deputy chief physicians, who are the members of reserve of management personnel, participated in the questionnaire survey. Results and discussion. According to the data obtained, the group of heads of health institutions with the highest rating score differed from the representatives of health institutions with fewer rating scores by higher values of anticipatory statefulness. Among the heads of health institutions with the highest rating score, a higher level of overall anticipation competence was revealed, which allows us to conclude about the application of the algorithm of psychological tests for determining the level of anticipation competence to predict the effectiveness of the head when considering candidates for the appointment to the position of the head of a health institution. Conclusion. The developed algorithm of using the parameters of psychological tests to assess and predict the effectiveness of the respondent can be applied in the practice of the Ministry of Health, as a tool for human resource activities
English Teaching Challenges at IAIN Kudus in Millennial Era
Authors: Setyaningrum Anisah
Published: November 2021

This study is a qualitative descriptive research which aimed at exploring the challenges and strategies in teaching English at IAIN Kudus in millennial era. The informants of this research were the English lecturers in IAIN Kudus and the third semester students of English Study Program Tarbiyah Faculty of IAIN Kudus. The result of this study showed that the English lecturers faced some challenges in teaching English at IAIN Kudus in Millennial era. The challenges were related to technology, personal behaviors, mentoring, and communication. In facing those challenges, the English lecturers applied some strategies such as determining the specific time in accessing technology during the class, determining the allowed and unallowed attitudes that can be done in the process of English teaching-learning, giving mentoring to the students, and creating good communication with the students.
Students’ Awareness of Metacognitive Reading Strategies in Academic Reading
Authors: Dangin Dangin
Published: November 2021

Being aware of reading strategies becomes the key of readers’ success in reading process, this study began with its purpose to investigate the readers’ awareness of metacognitive reading strategies while facing academic reading texts. Then, the respondents here were whole 50 students of English department, who had completed the questionnaire of Survey of Reading Strategies Awareness (SORS). Those respondents were intended to reveal the type of reading strategies used during reading academic materials in English. The results of study revealed that those respondents were aware of using two of three categories of reading strategies while reading the materials. As the detail, the results showed that the respondents mostly tended to use the strategies categorized in Problem Solving Strategies (PROB) in order to solve their obstacle in reading.  Global Reading Strategies (GLOB) as second place, which is mostly used by the respondents. And the last or the lowest strategies in use are Support Strategies (SUP).
The Legal, Ethical, and Scientific Considerations for Returning Explanted Orthopaedic Hardware to the Patient
Authors: Black Natalie R. , Winslade William J. , Lindsey Ronald W. , Gugala Zbigniew
Published: November 2021

Orthopaedic hardware explantation is a multifaceted topic with complex legal, ethical, and scientific aspects that require thorough exploration. Issues of device ownership, explant-induced disease propagation, and potential device resale pose legal risks to providers and health-care institutions. Ethically, implant removal highlights the potential that performing procedures at the request of the patient will incentivize patient compliance and strengthen the patient-surgeon relationship. However, the return of explanted hardware to patients could hinder scientific study and innovation, ultimately limiting advancement in risk reduction and patient outcomes. Continued research into these topics remains paramount to ensure that clinicians and institutions deliver optimal patient care while abiding with legal and ethical imperatives. This article addresses the legal, ethical, and scientific issues that are pertinent to returning an explanted orthopaedic implant to the patient and the potential ramifications of such practice.
La inseguridad alimentaria y factores asociados en hogares mexicanos con casos de Covid-19
Authors: Ávila-Arcos Marco Antonio , Méndez-Gómez Humarán Ignacio , Morales-Ruán María del Carmen , López-Olmedo Nancy , Barrientos-Gutiérrez Tonatiuh , Shamah-Levy Teresa
Published: November 2021

Objetivo. Analizar la asociación entre la presencia de anticuerpos contra SARS-CoV-2, con la inseguridad alimentaria (IA) y otras características del hogar, en una muestra nacional de hogares mexicanos. Material y métodos. Se obtuvo información a nivel de hogar en una muestra nacional representativa sobre seguridad alimentaria (SA), factores sociodemográficos, cambios en la economía y consumo de alimentos. Se estimó mediante regresión logística ordinal la relación entre IA y características de los hogares y modelos de regresión logística multinomial para estudiar los cambios autorreportados en el consumo de alimentos e IA, ante la presencia de seropositividad contra SARS-CoV-2 en el hogar. Resultados. Los hogares con casos de seropositividad presentaron menor consumo de carnes. En hogares que tuvieron una reducción de sueldo y la presencia de una persona con anticuerpos contra SARS-CoV-2 en el hogar, se presentó un aumento en la prevalencia de niveles más altos de IA (RM=1.225; IC95%: 1.04, 1.44) Conclusiones. La IA en hogares durante la pandemia se agravó por diversos factores, por lo cual se requieren acciones de política pública integrales
SARS-CoV-2 infection among Mexican healthcare workers
Authors: Barajas-Calderón Helix Iván , Robledo-Aceves Mireya , Paredes-Casillas Patricia , Aguirre-Espinosa Ana Cristina , Corona-Gutiérrez América Aime , Camarena-Pulido Eva Elizabet
Published: November 2021

Dear editor: Healthcare workers (HCW) have been the first-line defense against pandemic SARS-CoV-2 infection, for this reason, they are highly exposed and possibly have the greatest risk of contagion...
Violencia en el hogar contra mujeres adultas durante el confinamiento por la pandemia de Covid-19 en México
Authors: Valdez-Santiago Rosario , Villalobos-Hernández Aremis Litai , Arenas-Monreal Luz , Flores Karla , Ramos-Lira Luciana
Published: November 2021

Objective. To analyze the prevalence of domestic violence in adult women during confinement derived from the Co­vid-19 pandemic and individual, familiar and communitarian associated factors. Materials and methods. A second­ary analysis was carried out the 2020 National Health and Nutrition Survey on Covid-19, with national representation. A logistic regression model adjusted for the variables of interest was performed. Results. The prevalence was 5.8%. The most reported acts were shouting, insults or threats (4.3%). Most of the women who reported some type of violence in the home had already experienced it before the confinement. Low levels of well-being (OR= 1.96, 95%CI: 1.28,2.99), and living in a home where job was lost due to contingency (OR= 1.96, 95%CI: 1.41,2.73) were associated factors. Conclusions. In care interventions, it is necessary to take into account factors that deepen the vulnerability of women, such as pre-existing violence and loss of employment.
Editorial
Authors: Morales Fuhrimann Cristián R.
Published: November 2021

La Covid-19 se ha convertido en el evento de mayor impacto en la salud pública de los últimos 100 años. La región de las Américas y México no escapan a esta realidad pues ambos se han vistos particularmente afectados. Efectivamente, al 25 de octubre de 2021 se habían reportado 244 millones de casos de Covid-19 en el mundo y casi 5 millones de fallecimientos, con 38 y 46%, respectivamente, provenientes de nuestra región de las Américas.
A Novel Branched Polymer Gel System with Delayed Gelation Property for Conformance Control
Authors: Song Tao , Feng Qi , Schuman Thomas , Cao Jie , Bai Baojun
Published: November 2021

Excessive water production from oil reservoirs not only affects the economical production of oil, but it also results in serious environmental concerns. Polymer gels have been widely applied to decrease water production and thus improve oil production. However, traditional polymer gels such as partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM)/chromium (III) gel systems usually have a short gelation time and cannot meet the requirement of some conformance control projects. This paper introduces a novel polymer gel system of which crosslinking time can be significantly delayed. A branched polymer grafted from arginine by the surface initiation method is synthesized as the backbone, chromium acetate is used as the crosslinker, and no additional additives are used for the gel system. The results show that the gelation time of this system can be delayed to 61 days at 45°C and 20 days at 65°C because of the rigid structure of the branched polymer and the excellent chromium (III) chelating ability of arginine. The polymer gels have been stable for more than 150 days at 45 and 65°C. Coreflooding and rheology tests have demonstrated that this branched polymer has good injectivity and shear resistance in high-permeability rocks.
Modern Analogues of Sedimentation of Lower Permian Reservoirs in the Dnieper-Donets Depression
Authors: Loktyev Valentyn , Zharkeshov Sanzhar , Gotsynets Oleg , Davydenko Oleksandr , Machuzhak Mikhailo , Pavlo Kuzmenko , Repryntsev Vitalii , Kabatova Oksana
Published: November 2021

The paper considers the problematics of identifying proper analogues for understanding carbonate and clastic reservoir distribution and prediction in the Lower Permian and Upper and Lower Carboniferous within the Dnieper-Donets basin.

The focus of the exploration team was finding meandering rivers. This choice was proven good in mapping reservoirs and finding traps deeper in the Upper and Middle Carboniferous, although for Permian clastic section the approach was not helpful. The second option was desert dunes, but poor sorting of reservoirs suggests a more complex picture. Analogues such as desert environment is quite logical for describing Lower Permian as aridic climate, with red and brown shales and sands.

Lower Permian reservoirs have a moon-like shape in the vertical sections that could be easily mistaken for river channels, but in such a dry climate, it is very likely water flow channels with sporadic hurricane-related activities. Core and logs shows chaotic grain sizes, but more with fine grains with almost no coarse grains. The source of sedimentary material could be mountains of Ukrainian Rock Shield from the South and Voronezh massif from the North.

This conceptual model is proposing not to look for meandering channels, but more for braided channels with poorly sorted material. The current time analogue could be the Oman desert between the mountains and peninsula. From satellite images, braided channels are clearly visible in the direction towards the Indian Ocean. The channels’ internal structure is quite heterogeneous.

This method suggests exploration targets with possible widths of the channels as big as hundreds of meters and their lengths under 10 and between 10-20 kilometres maximum.
NOC Subsurface Organization Transformation to Boost Its Resource Base and Secure Country's Energy Needs
Authors: Zharkeshov Sanzhar , Tleukhabyluly Olzhas , Loktiev Valentin , Atanayev Askar , Maccagni Agostino
Published: November 2021

UkrGasVydobuvannya (UGV) is an E&P organization of the National Oil Company (NOC) of Ukraine – Naftogaz Group. UGV's existing gas fields represent one of the largest reservoir portfolios in the Eastern Europe; however, the current depletion level of the company's fields is also among the highest; the bulk of the fields have depletion levels between 70 and 90%. The E&P Company (UGV) has created a resource base development strategy to plan and deliver exploration activities and reservoir management based on industry best practices to maintain and grow the company's production and bookable reserves for years to come.

The subsurface transformation program (including both exploration and reservoir management domains) addresses the actions taken to ensure success for the Strategy. Actions consider not only increase in exploration acreage or acquiring new fields and prospects, but also the organizational, cultural, technological and process level changes across the subsurface domain in the company. The program is still in the early implementation phase; however, the first material results are confirming the validity of the program:

Organization re-design per industry standards: asset development teams were established and aligned with the portfolio priorities; Digital database of subsurface data is being created and systemic reservoir surveillance is being executed; Growth source secured: Black Sea, new onshore unconventional and conventional licenses; Modern exploration practices, including risk-based probabilistic exploration drilling decisions and launching of Petroleum Systems Analysis and Basin modeling; Reshaping the obsolete rigid structure of the research institute into a modern R&D center; and, Professional development program tailored to build-up the modern skills and competencies of company's subsurface teams.

These and other important steps of the transformation will ultimately help the company to ensure a healthy reserves replacement ratio and increase the production share of greenfields in its portfolio.

This case study can serve as a blueprint for any medium-sized subsurface organization (especially in NOCs) that faces similar resource base challenges and wishes to improve its production performance.
Transcriptome dynamics of hippocampal neurogenesis in macaques across the lifespan and aged humans
Authors: Wang Xiaoqun , Wang Wei , Wang Mengdi , Yang Meng , Zeng Bo , Qiu Wenying , Ma Qiang , Jing Xiaoxi , Zhang Qianqian , Wang Bosong , Yin Chonghai , Zhang Jiyao , Ge Yuxin , Lu Yufeng , Ji Weizhi , Wu Qian , Ma Chao
Published: November 2021

Whether adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) persists in adult and aged humans remains extensive debates1-8. Here, to provide a better understanding of AHN of primates, droplet-based single nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) is used to investigate the cellular heterogeneity and molecular characteristics of the hippocampi in macaques across the lifespan and in aged humans. We pinpoint the dynamics of the neurogenic lineage, including adult neural stem cells (NSCs) and immature neurons, and the diversity of astrocytes and microglia. In the neurogenic lineage, the regulatory continuum from adult NSCs to immature and mature granule cells is investigated. We identify ETNPPL as a primate-specific NSC marker and verify STMN1 and STMN2 as immature neuron markers in primates. Importantly, we also illustrate a cluster of active astrocytes and microglia exhibiting proinflammatory responses in aged samples. The interaction analysis implies that astrocytes are more important niche cells that provide signals inducing the proliferation, quiescence and inflammation of adult NSCs at different stages and thus are attributed to the decrease and variability of AHN in adult and elderly.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use is determined by disease activity in axSpA and decreased by biologicals: a longitudinal analysis
Authors: Ediboglu Elif Durak , Solmaz Dilek , Kabadayı Gökhan , Gücenmez Sercan , Cinaklı Haluk , Akad Eda Otman , Özmen Mustafa , Akar Servet
Published: November 2021

Objective

To evaluate non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use and Assessment in Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS)-NSAID scores in patients with axial spondyloarhritis (axSpA) in a longitudinal study.
Methods

In total, 429 patients with axSpA (59% male; 63.6% with AS) were included in this study. Data about disease activity, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and NSAID use and dosage were collected at 0, 12, 24, and 52 weeks retrospectively. The relationship with NSAID use /NSAID scores and other factors was tested using generalized estimating equations (GEE).
Results

At baseline (0 weeks), 92.8% of patients started biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and 82.1% were conventionally treated with NSAIDs. At baseline, the proportion (p=0.03) and the median (IQR) ASAS-NSAID scores were higher in biologic treatment group [100 (50) vs 50 (83.4); p<0.001]. During follow-up, NSAID use and ASAS-NSAID scores decreased significantly in patients treated with bDMARDs (p<0.001) and the reduction remained stable throughout the follow-up However, neither NSAID use (p=0.06) nor ASAS-NSAID scores changed in conventionally treated patients (p=0.15). In bDMARD-treated patients, ASDAS-CRP and BASFI scores were independent determinants for NSAID use, and BASDAI and patient global assessment (PGA) were determinants for NSAID dosage. There was no independent significant predictor for ASAS-NSAID scores; PGA was the only significant predictor for NSAID use in the conventional treatment group.
Conclusion

Concurrent biologic treatment was associated with low NSAID intake in patients with axSpA, and NSAID use was determined mainly by disease activity and partly by function during bDMARD treatment.
C-Reactive Protein Levels do Not Correlate with Body Mass Index in Patients Hospitalized with Infectious Diseases: A Retrospective Study
Authors: chertok elena , Dori Guy , Schwartz Naama , Cheshin Ori , Nitzan Ronit , Ishay Avraham
Published: November 2021

Background.C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase reactant protein synthesized in the liver. Human body proportions, such as body mass index (BMI), may affect CRP levels during infection. This study was carried out to investigate the relationship between CRP and BMI in obese versus non- obese patients hospitalized with common acute infections.MethodsA total of 445 patients admitted with diagnoses of pneumonia, urinary tract infections and cellulitis were included in the statistical analysis. Among them, 287 were diagnosed with pneumonia, 80 with UTIs and 78 with cellulitis. Each group was also divided according to their BMI. (< or ≥ 30 kg/m2). We gathered data for serial CRP measurements performed on day 0-1, 1-3, and 4-6 of hospitalization as well as BMI levels for all patients. Other markers of acute inflammation, including WBC, fibrinogen level, LDH, as well as albumin level and GFR were recorded.ResultsOverall, we found no difference in CRP levels in patients with or without obesity throughout the duration of their hospitalization. There was a trend of elevated CRP level at the beginning of hospitalization in the group with BMI≤30 (p=0.06). No correlation was found between CRP levels and BMI at the points of measurements during hospitalization in the three study groups.ConclusionCRP levels do not correlate with BMI and with other biomarkers of inflammation in patients hospitalized with acute infectious diseases.
C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio Predicts Survival in Patients with Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Lenvatinib: A Multicenter Analysis
Authors: Tada Toshifumi , Kumada Takashi , Hiraoka Atsushi , Hirooka Masashi , Kariyama Kazuya , Tani Joji , Atsukawa Masanori , Takaguchi Koichi , Itobayashi Ei , Fukunishi Shinya , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ishikawa Toru , Tajiri Kazuto , Ochi Hironori , Yasuda Satoshi , Toyoda Hidenori , Hatanaka Takeshi , Kakizaki Satoru , Shimada Noritomo , Kawata Kazuhito , Tanaka Takaaki , Ohama Hideko , Nouso Kazuhiro , Morishita Asahiro , Tsutsui Akemi , Nagano Takuya , Itokawa Norio , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Imai Michitaka , Naganuma Atsushi , Aoki Tomoko , Koizumi Yohei , Nakamura Shinichiro , Joko Kouji , Hiasa Yoichi , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: November 2021

We investigated the impact of C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR) on predicting outcomes in 522 patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with lenvatinib. We determined the optimal CAR cutoff value with time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Additionally, we clarified the relationship between CAR and liver function or HCC progression. Median overall survival was 20.0 (95% confidence interval (CI), 17.2–22.6) months. The optimal CAR cutoff value was determined to be 0.108. Multivariate analysis showed that high CAR (≥0.108) (hazard ratio (HR), 1.915; 95% CI, 1.495–2.452), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥1 (HR, 1.429), and α-fetoprotein ≥400 ng/mL (HR, 1.604) were independently associated with overall survival. Cumulative overall survival differed significantly between patients with low versus high CAR (p<0.001). Median progression-free survival was 7.5 (95% CI, 6.7–8.1) months. Multivariate analysis showed that age, CAR ≥0.108 (HR, 1.644; 95% CI, 1.324–2.043), and non-hepatitis B, non-hepatitis C etiology (HR, 0.726) were independently associated with progression-free survival. Cumulative progression-free survival differed significantly between patients with low versus high CAR (p<0.001). CAR values were significantly higher as Japan Integrated Staging score increased (p<0.001). In conclusion, CAR can predict outcomes in patients with unresectable HCC treated with lenvatinib.
Antifungal Effect of Triclosan On Aspergillus Fumigatus: Quorum Quenching Role As A Single Agent And Synergy With Liposomal Amphotericin-B
Authors: Tamimi Roya , Kyazze Godfrey , Keshavarz Tajalli
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this research was to determine Aspergillus fumigatus conidial viability and its biofilm formation upon treatment with triclosan and amphotericin-B loaded liposomes. A. fumigatus was treated with the antimicrobials, triclosan and liposomal amphotericin-B (L-AMB), in single and combined supplementation. To quantify the cells’ viability upon treatments, resazurin-based viability assay was performed. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was done by applying FUN-1 stain to screen the role of the agents on extracellular polymeric substances. Total A. fumigatus biomass upon treatments was estimated by using crystal violet-based assay. To study the agents’ effect on the conidial viability, flow cytometry analysis was performed. Expression levels of A. fumigatus genes encoding cell wall proteins, α-(1,3)-glucans and galactosaminogalactan were analysed by real-time polymerase chain reaction assay. A synergistic interaction occurred between triclosan and L-AMB when they were added sequentially (triclosan+L-AMB) at their sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations, the triclosan and L-AMB MICs were dropped to 0.6 and 0.2 mg/L, respectively, from 2 and 1 mg/L. Besides, L-AMB and triclosan contributed to the down-regulation of α-(1,3)-glucan and galactosaminogalactan in A. fumigatus conidia and resulted in less conidia aggregation and mycelia adhesion to the biotic/abiotic surfaces; A. fumigatus conidia -became hydrophilic upon treatment, as a result of rodlet layer being masked by a hydrophilic layer or modified by the ionic strength of the rodlet layer. In A. fumigatus, the potential mechanisms of action for L-AMB might be through killing the cells and for triclosan through interrupting the cells’ development as a consequence of quorum quenching.
A Retrospective Analysis of the Effects of TIME on Compliance and Driving Pressures in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: The TIMED Study
Authors: Jagan Nikhil , Morrow Lee , Walters Ryan , Plambeck Robert , Ng Ian , Chovatiya Jasmin , Macaraeg Jeffrey , Kalian Karson , Wittenberg Zachariah , Pruett William , Knedler Jonathan , Klein Lauren , Kasinath Pooja , Dyer Emily , Bergh Adam , Malesker Mark
Published: November 2021

Background:The evolution of compliance and driving pressure in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and the effects of time spent on noninvasive respiratory support prior to intubation has not been well studied. We conducted this study to assess the effect of the duration of noninvasive respiratory support prior to intubation (i.e., Noninvasive ventilation (NIV), High flow nasal cannula (HFNC), or a combination of NIV and HFNC) on static compliance and driving pressure and retrospectively describe its trajectory over time for COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 ARDS while on mechanical ventilation. Methods: Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from one university-affiliated academic medical center, one a rural magnet hospital, and three suburban community facilities. A total of 589 patients were included: 55 COVID-19 positive, 137 culture positive, and 397 culture negative patients. Static compliance and driving pressure were calculated at each 8-hour ventilator check. Results:Days of pre-intubation noninvasive respiratory support was associated with worse compliance and driving pressure but did not moderate any trajectory. COVID-19 positive patients showed non-statistically significant worsening compliance by 0.08-units per ventilator check (p = .241), whereas COVID-19 negative patients who were either culture positive or negative patients showed statistically significant improvement (0.12 and 0.18, respectively; both p < .05); a statistically similar but inverse pattern was observed for driving pressure. ConclusionIn contrast to non-COVID-19 ARDS, COVID-19 ARDS was associated with a more ominous trajectory with no improvement in static lung compliance or driving pressures. Though there was no association between days of pre-intubation noninvasive respiratory support and mortality, its use was associated with worse overall compliance and driving pressure.
Prognostic Prediction of Novel Risk Scores (AML-DRG and AML-HCT-CR) in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients with Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Cao Weijie , Li Xiaoning , Zhang Ran , Bian Zhilei , Zhang Suping , Li Li , Xing Haizhou , Liu Changfeng , Xie Xinsheng , Jiang Zhongxing , Yu Jifeng , Wan Dingming
Published: November 2021

Purpose

We aimed to validate and prove the novel risk score models of acute myeloid leukemia (AML)-specific disease risk group (AML-DRG) and AML-Hematopoietic Cell Transplant-composite risk (AML-HCT-CR) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHCT).
Methods

One hundred twenty-three AML (non-APL) patients underwent AHCT was enrolled in this study. Patients were stratified into 3 AML-DRG and 4 AML-HCT-CR risk groups. Of the 123 patients, 57 (46.3%) were females, and the median age was 31 years (range 12 to 62 years). All patients received myeloablative conditioning. Median follow-up was 46 months (range 1 to 94 months). AML-DRG and AML-HCT-CR score models were applied with the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) analysis after the clinical follow-up.
Results

For the AML-DRG model, the 3-year OS in the low, intermediate and high-risk groups were 65.4%, 34.9% and 8.3%, respectively (p<0.001). The corresponding 3-year PFS were 64.0%, 34.9% and 8.3% (p<0.001). The OS predictive accuracy measured by C-index was 0.680. In the AML-HCT-CR model, the 3-year OS in the low, intermediate, high and very high-risk groups were 65.4%, 52.0%, 11.1% and 8.3%, respectively (p<0.001). The corresponding 3-year PFS were 64.0%, 52.0%, 11.1% and 8.3% (p<0.001). The OS predictive accuracy measured by C-index was 0.705. The AML-DRG and AML-HCT-CR models significantly predicted cumulative incidence of relapse (p=0.002; p=0.005). But both scores were not associated with NRM (p=0.314; p=0.095). Univariate analysis showed that the AML-DRG model could better stratify AML patients into different risk groups compared to the AML-HCT-CR model. Multivariate analysis confirmed that prognostic impact of AML-DRG and AML-HCT-CR models on post-transplant OS was independent to age, sex, conditioning type, transplant modality, and stem cell source (p<0.001; p<0.001).
Conclusions

The AML-DRG and AML-HCT-CR models can be used to effectively predict post-transplant survival in patients with AML receiving AHCT in our center. Compared to AML-HCT-CR score, the AML-DRG score allows better stratification and improved survival prediction of AML patients post-transplant.
Extracting Thin-film Optical Parameters from Spectrophotometric Data by Evolutionary Optimization
Authors: Dutta Rajdeep , Tian Siyu Isaac Parker , Liu Zhe , Venkataraj Selvaraj , Cheng Yuanhang , Bash Daniil , Buonassisi Tonio , Jayavelu Senthilnath
Published: November 2021

Extracting optical parameters from spectrophotometric measurements is a challenging task. In a photometric setup, an unknown thin-film is subjected to an incident light beam for a range of admissible wavelengths, which outputs reflectance and transmittance spectra. The current work attempts to solve an inverse problem of extracting thin-film thickness and complex refractive index from reflectance and transmittance spectra for an incident angle of light. The film thickness is a scalar quantity, and the complex refractive index is composed of real and imaginary parts as functions of wavelengths. We leverage evolutionary optimization techniques to solve the underlying inverse problem, which determines the desired parameters associated with two optical dispersion models: ensemble of Tauc-Lorentz (TL) and ensemble of Gaussian oscillators, such that the generated spectra accurately fit the input data. The optimal parameters involved in the adopted models are determined using efficient evolutionary algorithms (EAs). Numerical results validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in estimating the optical parameters of interest.
Epoch-Making Discovery for CO2 Characteristics: “Pseudo Osmosis” in the Gas Phase
Authors: Sorimachi Kenji
Published: November 2021

Recently, unprecedented torrential rains have deluged the globe, resulting in disastrous floods. These disasters were caused by climate changes because of an increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in the atmosphere since the industrial revolution. Therefore, atmospheric accumulation of CO2 should be reduced to avoid a future climate crisis. Many methods to fix CO2 have been developed, but a practical method has not been established, except for the method using amines based on moderate plant constructions. However, the membrane method has not yet been established because of the conflicting relationship between penetrability and specificity, although membrane technology can be used for CO2 separation. Epoch-making discoveries for CO2 characteristics have been presented as follows: 1) the high penetrability of CO2 in the gas phase caused “pursued osmosis” against polymer elasticity; 2) highly penetrable CO2 passed through polymer membranes such as authentic polymers and natural cellulose, whereas neither O2 nor N2 penetrates these polymers examined; 3) CO2 is absorbed by plastics; 4) H2 and CH4 gases penetrate through polymer membranes, but their penetration was completely blocked in the presence of water; and 5) using a polytunnel made of polymer sheets (an artificial forest or positive green house), which allows CO2 penetration, instead of hard chamber, steel, or plastic could be cost effective. Therefore, polymer membranes could be practically and economically useful for CO2 separation from the exhaust gas and atmosphere.
Development of a Novel Film Based on Bacterial Nanocellulose Reinforced Gelatin/Guar Gum Containing Honey for Wound Healing Applications
Authors: Nezhadmokhtari Parinaz , Asadi Nahideh , Ghorbani Marjan , Bakhshayesh Azizeh Rahmani Del , Milani Morteza , Akbarzadeh Abolfazl
Published: November 2021

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a type of 3-dimensionally structured polymer gel produced by Acetobacter that has recently attracted increased interest in wound healing concerns. To produce an effective antibacterial wound dressing, researchers investigated the manufacturing and structural features of honey-infused BNC reinforced gelatin/aldehyde-modified Guar gum films (H/BNC/Ge/AD-GG). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), mechanical characteristics, water solubility, and degradability were all used to assess the produced films. In addition, the influence of honey addition on the produced films' various properties has been examined. Antibacterial activity, better degradation capability, improved mechanical qualities, and excellent cell adhesion and proliferation by NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells were among the outcomes. The cytotoxicity assay in vitro revealed good cytocompatibility. As a result of the findings, the produced H/BNC/Ge/AD-GG films appear to have a high potential for antibacterial wound dressing applications.
Plasma Exo-miRNAs Correlated with AD-Related Factors of Chinese Individuals Involved in Aβ Accumulation and Cognition Decline
Authors: WANG Lifang , Zhen Hefu , Sun Yuzhe , Rong Shuang , Li Benchao , Song Zhijie , Liu Zhili , Guo Ruidong , Li Zhiming , Ding Jiahong , Yang Huanming , Xu Xun , Zhang Xiuqing , Sun Haixi , Nie Chao
Published: November 2021

Numerous studies have investigated the risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), however, AD- risk factors related miRNAs were rarely reported. In this study, AD- risk factor related miRNAs of 119 Chinese individuals (47 AD patients and 62 cognitively normal controls) were investigated. The results showed that education, tea consumption, leisure activity, and social connection were low Body Mass Index (BMI), depression, and smoking were potentially risk factors for AD patients. Moreover, we screened exosome microRNAs (miRNAs) for the aforementioned lifestyle-related factors. Canonical correlation analyses revealed that our clinical observations were correlated with the miRNA expression profile for education, depression, leisure activity, and social connection. Furthermore, we predicted the targets of differentially expressed miRNAs and found that many of them were reported to be involved in the generation and clearance of Amyloid-beta (Aβ), important molecules related to cognition, and disease-activated microglia response to AD. Our results indicated that certain education and depression factors can contribute to AD progression by modulating miRNA expression, implying that preventive interventions might alter AD progression in Chinese patients.
The Significance of Detective Arrhythmia by Using the Long- Term Ecg Monitoring in the Elderly “so Called” Healthy People: A Screening Study
Authors: Xie Rongsheng , Hong Siting , Gao Guoliang , Zhong Jiaoyue , Geng Lixin , Gao Shanlong , Xu Yanli , Diao Meiling , Li Jiaoyan , Li Yuyu , Liang Zhaoguang
Published: November 2021

BackgroundArrhythmias are potential harmful diseases to human beings, especially atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmia, for causing serious consequences such as acute stroke or even sudden cardiac death. Recently the screening of asymptomatic atrial fibrillation by using the long-term ECG monitoring has been widely noticed. The study is to evaluate the significance of detective arrhythmia by using the long-term ECG monitoring in the elderly “so called” healthy people who never have the symptoms of palpitation, short breath or deny previous history of arrhythmia.MethodsWe enrolled a screening study of 1056 participants who were the elderly “so called” healthy people and ready to have a healthy examination from three different communities. They all underwent a long-term ECG monitoring（an adhesive patch）to evaluate cardiac arrhythmia. Inclusion criterias were 1) without any symptoms, 2) age ≥55, and 3) denying previous history of arrhythmia. We excluded patients with prior arrhythmias and who carried the patch for less than one day due to various factors. Then we compared the detected arrhythmia events in the first 24 hours and the total wearing time. ResultsOut of 1056 participants (69.8±12.0 years, 620 males), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) was present in 538 subjects (44% VS 54%, 24 hours VS after 24 hours, P>0.05), atrial fibrillation (AF) was detected in 69 subjects (75% VS 25%, 24 hours VS after 24 hours, P<0.001), second degree type II atrioventricular block/third degree atrioventricular block (AVB) and sinus arrest were detected in 9 subjects(22% VS 78%, 24 hours VS after 24 hours, P<0.001),ventricular tachycardia was detected in 29 subjects (31% VS 69%, 24 hours VS after 24 hours, P<0.001). The adhesive patch monitor detected 32.10%（339/1056）arrhythmia events over the first 24 hours compared with arrhythmia events over the total wearing time of the devices, 61.08%（645/1056）(P<0.001). ConclusionsThe long-term adhesive patch monitor (APM) can improve the diagnosis of conceal arrhythmias which have high risks for life quality and lifespan in the elderly “so called ” healthy people, and the diagnostic advantage in bradycardia and ventricular arrhythmias are more obvious.
Uncertainty analysis for the data-driven model using Monte Carlo simulations to predict sodium adsorption rate: A case study, Aras, Sepid-Rud, and Karun Rivers in Iran
Authors: Rahnama Elham , Bazrafshan Omolbanin , Asadollahfardi Gholamreza , Samadi Seyed Yaser
Published: November 2021

Water quality management requires a profound understating of future variations of surface and groundwater qualities for assessment and planning for human consumption, industrial, and irrigation purposes. In this regard, mathematical models, such as Box-Jenkins time series models, Bayesian time series models, and data-driven models are available for future prediction of water quality. However, the uncertainty associated with forecasting is one of the main problems of using these models towards water quality and future planning. In the present work, the uncertainty of the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System, based on Fuzzy c-means clustering, (ANFIS-FCMC) (genfis 3) model is quantified to analyze and predict Sodium Adsorption Rate(SAR) of water of Aras, Sepid-Rud, and Karun Rivers by using Monte Carlo simulations. The results indicate the combined standard and the expanded uncertainty simulated for SAR of Aras River water are 0.58 and1.16, respectively, and the gap is 2 .412 ±1.1622. Also, the combined standard and the expanded uncertainty simulated for SAR of Spid-Rud River water were1.11 and 2.22, respectively, and the gap is equal to 2 .235 ±2.22. Furthermore, the combined standard and the expanded uncertainty simulated for SAR of Aras River water are 2.063, and 4.126, respectively, and the gap is 4.79 ±4.126. Finally, the minimum uncertainty happened to predict SAR of Aras River using ANFIS-FCMC (genfis3) model and maximum SAR uncertainty belong to Karun River.
A Novel High-Dimensional Trajectories Construction Network based on Multi-Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Ren Feiyang , Han Yi , Wang Shaohan , Jiang He
Published: November 2021

A novel marine transportation network based on high-dimensional AIS data with a multi-level clustering algorithm is proposed to discover important waypoints in trajectories based on selected navigation features. This network contains two parts: the calculation of major nodes with CLIQUE and BIRCH clustering methods and navigation network construction with edge construction theory. Unlike the state-of-art work for navigation clustering with only ship coordinate, the proposed method contains more high-dimensional features such as drafting, weather, and fuel consumption. By comparing the historical AIS data, more than 220,133 lines of data in 30 days were used to extract 440 major nodal points in less than 4 minutes with ordinary PC specs (i5 processer). The proposed method can be performed on more dimensional data for better ship path planning or even national economic analysis. Current work has shown good performance on complex ship trajectories distinction and great potential for future shipping transportation market analytical predictions.
Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics To Explore The Action Mechanism of The Pharmaceutical Grade Triticum Vulgare Extract In Speeding Up Keratinocytes Healing.
Authors: Morretta Elva , D'Agostino Antonella , Cassese Elisabetta , Maglione Barbara , Petrella Antonello , Schiraldi Chiara , Monti Maria Chiara
Published: November 2021

Plant extracts have shown beneficial properties in skin repair, promoting wound-healing through a plethora of mechanisms. In particular, the poly/oligosaccharidic aqueous extract of Triticum vulgare (TVE), as well as TVE-based products, showed interesting biological assets, fastening wound repair. Indeed, TVE acts in the treatment of tissue regeneration mainly on decubitus and venous leg ulcers. Moreover, on scratched monolayers, TVE prompted HaCat cell migration, correctly modulating the expression of metalloproteases towards a physiological matrix remodeling. Here, using the same HaCat based in vitro scratch model, TVE effect has been investigated thanks to an LFQ proteomic analysis of HaCat secretome and immunoblotting. Indeed, TVE behavior on secreted proteins has not yet been fully deepened and it could be helpful to obtain a comprehensive picture of its bio-pharmacological profile. It is emerged that the TVE treatment induced an up regulation of several proteins in the secretome (to be exact 219) whereas only few were down regulated (to be exact 85). Interestingly, many of the up-regulated proteins are implicated in promoting wound-healing related processes such as modulating cell-cell interaction and communication, cell proliferation and differentiation and prompting cell adhesion and migration.
Flagellin synergistically enhances anti-tumor effect of EGFRvIII peptide in a glioblastoma-bearing mouse brain tumor model
Authors: Choi Jin Myung , Lim Sa-Hoe , Liu Zhi-Peng , Rhee Joon Haeng , Yoon Mee Sun , Min Jung-Joon , Jung Shin
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive type of brain tumor with heterogeneity and strong invasive ability. Treatment of GBM has not improved significantly despite the progress of immunotherapy and classical therapy. Epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII), one of GBM-associated mutants, is regarded as an ideal therapeutic target in EGFRvIII-expressed GBM patients because it is a tumor-specific receptor expressed only in tumors. Flagellin B (FlaB) originated from Vibrio vulnificus is known as a strong adjuvant that enhance innate and adaptive immunity in various vaccine models. This study performed whether FlaB synergistically could enhance the anti-tumor effect of EGFRvIII peptide (PEGFRvIII).
Methods

EGFRvIII-GL261/Fluc cells were used for glioblastoma-bearing mouse brain model and cell-bearing mice were inoculated with PBS, FlaB alone, PEGFRvIII alone, and PEGFRvIII plus FlaB. Survival rate through tumor growth was investigated by MRI. T cell population was examined by flow cytometry analysis. Both cleaved caspase-3 and CD8+ lymphocytes were shown by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining.
Results

The PEGFRvIII plus FlaB group showed delayed tumor growth and increased survival rate when compared to other treatment groups. As an evidence of apoptosis, cleaved caspase-3 expression and DNA disruption were more increased in the PEGFRvIII plus FlaB group than in other groups. In addition, the PEGFRvIII plus FlaB group showed more increased CD8+ T cells and decreased Treg cells than other treatment groups in the brain.
Conclusion

FlaB can enhance the anti-tumor effect of PEGFRvIII by increasing CD8+ T cell response in a mouse brain GBM model.
Cotinine Levels Influence the Risk of Rupture of Brain Aneurysms
Authors: Missori Paolo , Ambrosone Angela , Currà Antonio , Paolini Sergio , Incarbone Giorgio , Amabile Elena , Biraschi Francesco , Diana Francesco , Peschillo Simone
Published: November 2021

The relationship between nicotine levels in smokers and brain aneurysm has never been determined. To assess the levels of cotinine in smoker patients with ruptured and unruptured brain aneurysm and the risk of aneurysm rupture we quantified cotinine levels in smoker patients with ruptured or unruptured brain aneurysms. We identified a control group of smokers and nonsmokers without brain aneurysm. Out of 182 participants cerebral aneurysms were statistically significantly associated with smoking (P<0.001) and female sex (P=0.006). Cotinine levels were significantly correlated with both the presence (P=0.009) and the rupture (P=0.002) of brain aneurysms. Compared with nonsmokers, smokers had a 5-fold higher risk of having a brain aneurysm (OR, 5.72; 95% CI, 2.96–11.07; P<0.001). The risk of rupture of brain aneurysms increased by 50% with each cotinine unit and was 4-fold higher with cotinine levels between 4 and 6 (OR, 3.75; 95% CI, 1.48–9.53; P=0.005). With increasing age, the cotinine level decreased (P <0.001, rho= –0.28), declining by 2% with each year of age. In the whole population, the probability of a ruptured aneurysm in patients with cotinine levels between 4 and 6 was higher than in those with levels between 0 and 3 (OR, 5.55; 95% CI, 1.08–28.5; P=0.040). Our results suggest that high cotinine levels in smokers with brain aneurysm, rather than size, are significantly associated with high rupture risk. Cotinine levels decrease with age, possibly reducing the risk of formation and rupture of a brain aneurysm.
Identification of Key Ischemic Stroke Genes by Computational Systems Biology
Authors: Yue Rongting , Dutta Abhishek
Published: November 2021

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in humans. Even if patients survive from stroke, they may suffer sequelae such as disability. Treatment for strokes remains unsatisfactory due to an incomplete understanding of its mechanisms. This study investigates Ischemic Stroke (IS), a primary subtype of stroke, through analyses based on microarray data. Limma (in R)derives differentially expressed genes, and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network is mapped from the database. Gene co-expression patterns are obtained for clustering gene modules by the Weighted Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA), and genes with high connectivity in the significantly co-expressed modules are selected as key regulators. Common hubs are identified as Cdkn1a, Nes and Anxa2. Based on our analyses, we hypothesize that these hubs might play a key role in the onset and progression of IS. Result suggests the potential of identifying unexplored key regulators by the systemic method used in this work. Further analyses aim at expanding candidate genes for screening biomarkers for IS, and experimental validation is required on identified potential hubs.