bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring Voluntary Responses in Healthcare Utilization During and After COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Yung-Yu , Tzu-Ting Yang
Published: July 2021

Healthcare has been one of the most affected sectors during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The utilization of related services for non-COVID-19 diseases fell dramatically following the point at which the virus broke out; however, little is known about whether this observed decline in healthcare use was due to voluntary behaviors or enforced measures. This paper quantifies the spontaneous change in healthcare utilization during and after the pandemic. We utilize a county-by-week-level dataset from Taiwan's National Health Insurance (NHI) record, covering the entire Taiwanese population, and a difference-in-differences design. Our results indicate that even if there were no human mobility restrictions or supply-side constraints, people voluntarily reduced their demand for healthcare, due to fears of contagion, or COVID-related precautionary behaviors. We find that the number of outpatient visits (inpatient admissions) decreased by 21% (11%) during the pandemic period (February to May 2020). Furthermore, the demand response of healthcare for infectious diseases (e.g., flu) was much greater and more persistent than for non-infectious diseases, thereby suggesting that the substantial decline in accessing healthcare was induced by positive public health externality of prevention measures for COVID-19. Finally, we find that the demand for healthcare services did not get back to the pre-pandemic baseline, even when there were no local coronavirus cases for 253 consecutive days (mid-April to December 2020) in Taiwan.
Effectiveness of 2D Induced Polarisation & Electrical Resistivity Tomography in Mapping Fracture Heterogeneity in Foundation Soils.
Authors: Nnebedum Okechukwu Donald , Igwe Ogbonnaya , Ifediegwu Stanley Ikenna
Published: July 2021

Inhomogeneity caused by fractures can constitute real problems in foundation soils which consequently can lead to structural failure. 2D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) has been exceedingly popular in mapping near surface discontinuities that can possibly affect engineering structures. The effectiveness of using Induced Polarisation Tomography (IPT) in mapping subsurface fractures was explored. Using the same field way out for both ERT and IPT, investigations were carried out at a failed structure with foundational inhomogeneity in the Nsukka area, Southeastern Nigeria. Four Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and four Induced Polarisation Tomography (IPT) were carried out. Electrical Resistivity Tomography for profile line one (ERT1) and that of the opposite section, ERT3, revealed a fault trending NNW- SSE. This anomaly was also observed on the Induced Polarization Tomography for profile line one (IPT1) as well as that of profile line three (IPT3) at the same offset distances, delineating the same fracture zone. A second fault trending in NE-SW was mapped by the Electrical Resistivity Tomography for profile line two (ERT2) and Electrical Resistivity Tomography for profile line four (ERT4). The fault was also visible in the Induced Polarization counterparts, IPT2 and IPT4. Field validation along mapped trends recorded subtle cracks on the foundation along the same trend detected by the IPT as well as the ERT.
Real Time Medical Image Encryption Based on Digitial Hologram in Various Optical Domains
Authors: GIRIJA R , Singh Hukum , ABIRAMI G
Published: July 2021

The use of digital hologram (DH) in optical medical images is analyzed in this paper. These analyses are done in various domains of double random phase encoding and it has been proposed. The domains are fractional Fourier, Gyrator, Fractional Hartley and Fresnel. In order to use in real time scheming, this proposal are used many medical images such as MRI Scan, X-ray and mammograms. These medical images are optically explored with the various domains of double random phase encoding. At that time, various encryption areas in double random phase encoding (DRPE) are considered with boosted confidence of security. The encryption and decryption process in various domains makes the complete chart analysis for all kind of medical images which can be used for real time processing. Simulation analysis and results shows the legitimacy and efficiency of proposed scheme.
The Influence of Bracket Torque on External Apical Root Resorption in Bimaxillary Protrusion Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Xiaojuan Zhang , Hong Zhou , Xiangling Liao , Jinhua Sang
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To evaluate the difference in root resorption between standard torque self-ligating brackets and high torque self-ligating brackets in bimaxillary protrusion patients after orthodontic treatment.Materials and Methods: Pre-treatment and post-treatment CBCT of 32 patients (16 treated with the high torque DamonQ 0.022” bracket and 16 with the 0.022” standard torque self-ligating bracket) were selected. The first premolars were extracted from all patients before treatment. After mini-screw implants were inserted into the buccal region between the second premolar and first molar, 150 g of force was applied to retract the upper and lower anterior teeth to close the extraction space on each side. CBCT images of all patients were taken before and after treatment. Three-dimensional reconstruction of the maxillary central incisor, lateral incisor and canine was conducted with Mimics 20.0 software. The volumes of the roots were calculated using Gomagics Studio 12.0 software. The differences between the pre-treatment and post-treatment root volumes were statistically evaluated with a paired-samples t-test.Results: There was no statistically significant difference in root resorption degree between the two kinds of torque brackets. The patient’s degree of root resorption in the high torque self-ligating group was greater than that in the standard torque group.Conclusions: There was no significant difference in root external apical resorption between the high torque self-ligating brackets and the standard torque self-ligating brackets in bimaxillary protrusion patients.Clinical Relevance: A comparison of the effects of different torque brackets on root resorption can provide some guidance for bracket selection in clinical work.
Simulation and Experimental Research on Nickel-based Coating Preparedby Jet Electrodeposition at Different Scanning Speeds
Authors: xiuqing Fu , Li Jia , Zhang Hongwen , Xian Jieyu
Published: July 2021

In order to study the processing mechanism of jet electrodeposition and explore the influence of different scanning speed on the wear and corrosion resistance of nickel-based coating prepared by jet electrodeposition. The reciprocating scanning motion of the nozzle was used to prepare the nickel-based coating in a specific area. Combined with COMSOL software, the coupling effect of multiple physical fields in the process of jet electrodeposition at different scanning speeds was numerically calculated. Scanning electron microscope, microhardness tester, material surface comprehensive performance tester and electrochemical workstation were used to analyze the surface morphology, section thickness, microhardness, abrasion resistance and corrosion resistance of the nickel-based coating prepared by jet electrodeposition at different scanning speeds. Results show that with the increase of scanning speed, coating grain size decreases, and the coating thickness increases after the first decreases, and microhardness increase after decreases first, abrasion resistance and corrosion resistance were lower after increase first, When the scanning speed reaches 600mm/min, the jet electrodeposited nickel-based coating has the best performance, the maximum thickness reaches 24.83μm, the microhardness reaches 616.86HV, and the wear scar area is 2766.75μm2. In addition, the self-corrosion potential is -0.33V, the self-corrosion current density is 5.16E-7A·cm2, and the equivalent impedance is 4660Ω. The experimental results are consistent with the simulation results, which verifies the accuracy of the simulation model and provides theoretical guidance for further experiments related to jet electrodeposition.
Immune cell composition and immunological profiles of the breast cancer microenvironment represented by histologically assessed tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and PD-L1 expression: A systematic analysis
Authors: Hanamura Toru , Kitano Shigehisa , Kagamu Hiroshi , Yamashita Makiko , Terao Mayako , Tsuda Banri , Okamura Takuho , Kumaki Nobue , Hozumi Katsuto , Harada Naoki , Iwamoto Takayuki , Honda Chikako , Kurozumi Sasagu , Niikura Naoki
Published: July 2021

Background. A better understanding of tumor immunology can facilitate the development of new treatment strategies for various malignancies. Histologically assessed tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (hTILs) and programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (hPD-L1) have been established as prognostic or predictive biomarkers in certain subsets of breast cancer. However, the complexity of multiple types of immune cells is not fully understood. In this study, the immune cell fractions in breast cancer tissue and blood were evaluated to analyze their association with hTILs and hPD-L1. Methods. In total, 45 tumor and 18 blood samples were collected from breast cancer patients. The total leukocyte counts, proportions of 11 types of immune cells in the samples, and PD-L1 expression in each fraction were evaluated using multicolor flow cytometry for both the tumor and blood samples. The hTILs and hPD-L1 were evaluated with hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry respectively. Results. The immune cell composition of the blood showed a partial correlation with that of the tumor tissue; however, no significant association was found between the blood immune cell compositions and hTIL or hPD-L1 expression. A higher hTIL was associated with increased leukocyte infiltration as well as a higher proportion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and lower proportion of natural killer cells and natural killer T cells. PD-L1 was highly expressed in the monocyte/macrophage (Mo/Mφ), nonclassical monocyte (CD16+ Mo), myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC), dendritic cell (DC), and myeloid dendritic cell (mDC) fractions in the tumor tissues. hPD-L1 positivity was associated with increased leukocyte infiltration in the tumor tissues and PD-L1 expression in Mo/Mφ, CD16+ Mo, MDSC, DC, and mDC fractions. Conclusion. There was a partial correlation in the composition of immune cells at the tumor site and that in the peripheral blood. A high proportion of hTILs reflects not only higher immune cell infiltration but also differences in the immune responses in the tumor microenvironment. Non-B-cell antigen-presenting cell fractions such as Mo/Mφ, CD16+ Mo, MDSC, DC, and mDC fractions are involved primarily in the PD-L1 pathway in the breast cancer microenvironments.
Time-optimal Feedrate Scheduling with Actuator Constraints for 5-axis Machining
Authors: Kornmaneesang Woraphrut , Chen Shyh-Leh
Published: July 2021

Cycle time minimization is one of the major goals that many manufacturers are eager to achieve. Maximizing feedrate is the direct solution, however, physical motions need to be under the specified motion limits to avoid high-frequency vibration, causing machining error. In this paper, a time-optimal feedrate scheduling approach for 5-axis G1 toolpath is presented for 5-axis machining. A quintic B-spline corner smoothing method is utilized to smoothen sharp corners in the toolpath. Then, the S-shape feedrate profile of each block is optimized under the actuator motion constraints, with the objective of minimizing the cycle time. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used to provide the optimized solution. Experiments are conducted to validate the proposed approach and the results are compared with two other existing approaches. It is found that the proposed method can achieve shorter cycle time and less contour errors, showing the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Systemic Anticoagulation is Associated With Decreased Mortality in COVID-19 Patients: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Bian Yi , Le Yue , Zhang Ping , He Zhigang , Wang Ye , Yu Shanshan , Fang Yu , Yu Gang , Ling Jianmin , Feng Yikuan , Wei Sheng , Huang Jiao , Xiao Liuniu , Zheng Yingfang , Yu Zhen , Li Shusheng
Published: July 2021

Background: Accumulating evidence has revealed that coagulopathy and widespread thrombosis in the lung are common in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). This raises questions about the efficacy and safety of systemic anticoagulation (AC) in COVID-19 patients. Method: This single-center, retrospective, cohort study unselectively reviewed 2272 patients with COVID-19 admitted to the Tongji Hospital between Jan 25 and Mar 23, 2020. Propensity score-matching between patients adjusted for potential covariates was carried out with the patients divided into two groups depending on whether or not they had received AC treatment (AC group, ³7 days of treatment; non-AC group, no treatment). This yielded 164 patients in each group. Result: In-hospital mortality of the AC group was significantly lower than that of the non-AC group (14.0% vs. 28.7%, P =0.001). Treatment with AC was associated with a significantly lower probability of in-hospital death (adjusted HR=0.273, 95% CI, 0.154 to 0.484, P<0.001). The incidence of major bleeding and thrombocytopenia in the two groups was not significantly different. Subgroup analysis showed the following factors were associated with a significantly lower in-hospital mortality in patients who had received AC treatment; severe cases (13.2% vs. 24.6%, P=0.018), critical cases (20.0% vs 82.4%, P=0.003), patients with a D-dimer level ≥0.5 μg/mL (14.8% vs. 33.8, P<0.001), and moderate (16.7% vs. 60.0%, P=0.003) or severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) cases at admission (33.3% vs. 86.7%, P=0.004). During the hospital stay, critical cases (38.3% vs. 76.7%, P<0.001) and severe ARDS cases (36.5% vs. 76.3%, P<0.001) who received AC treatment had significantly lower in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: AC treatment decreases the risk of in-hospital mortality, especially in critically ill patients, with no additional significant, major bleeding events or thrombocytopenia being observed.Trials registration - ChiCTR2000039855
The Varying Roles of Ecosystem Services in Poverty Alleviation Among Rural Households in Urbanizing Watersheds
Authors: Yin Dan , Huang Qingxu , He Chunyang , Hua Xiaobo , Liao Chuan , Inostroza Luis , Zhang Ling , Bai Yansong
Published: July 2021

ContextUnderstanding the relationship between ecosystem services and human well-being in rural areas of rapidly urbanizing watersheds is one of the core research questions of landscape sustainability science. It is important for poverty alleviation and forming related policies. However, there is insufficient investigation on the impact of ecosystem services on poverty alleviation at the household level in such regions. ObjectivesThis paper investigates whether household characteristics play an important role in connecting ecosystem services and poverty alleviation in a rapidly urbanizing landscape from the perspective of landscape sustainability science.MethodsWe use an urbanizing watershed with a large number of poor people, analyzing the impacts of ecosystem services on poverty alleviation among different types of rural households based on surveys, cluster analysis, and multinomial logit models. ResultsThe results suggested that neither provisioning services nor cultural services that are received by the households were significantly associated with poverty alleviation (p>0.1). However, the decline in one regulating service (natural disaster prevention) had a significant, negative impact on poverty alleviation (p<0.1), and the probability for natural disaster-affected farmers to fall into poverty was approximately 32 times higher than that for those who were not. ConclusionsDifferences in household-level endowments largely explained the diverging roles of ecosystem services on poverty alleviation. Therefore, in urbanizing watersheds, pro-poor policies such as providing agricultural insurance and targeted support (e.g., interest-free microcredit) should be adopted to improve the ability of poverty-stricken households to cope with disasters and prevent them from returning to poverty.
Oral Hygiene and Oral Microbiota in Children with Neurological Impairment and Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Study
Authors: Fregatto Luiz Fernando , Costa Isabela Bazzo , Teixeira Daniel De Bortoli , Duarte Janaina Costa Marangon , Mascarin Aline Maria Noli , Junior Salum Bueno da Silveira , Serva Bianca Eduarda Baptistella Mesquita , Silva Roberta Gonçalves da , Junior Francisco Agostinho , Cola Paula Cristina
Published: July 2021

Objective

This study compared the oral hygiene and oral microbiota in children with neurological impairment and oropharyngeal dysphagia with and without gastrostomy. Method: Forty children and young people participated in this study: 19 females and 21 males, aged 2 to 22 years (mean age 8.6 years). Participants were divided into two groups: group I (GI = 20) with gastrostomy and group II (GII = 20) without gastrostomy (with oral feeding). Oral hygiene was assessed using the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (SOHI). Analysis of two bacteria, Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, was performed by collecting saliva using an oral swab, then mRNA expression was evaluated using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique.
Results

The oral hygiene index had a general median of 2.2, and the two groups were statistically different (Group I: median 2.9 and Group II: median 2.0) (p = 0.01751). Bacterial analysis indicated 13 individuals with S. mutans and none with S. sobrinus. Of the 13 individuals with S. mutans, 6 were from Group I and 7 from Group II.
Conclusions

Those with gastrostomy had worse oral hygiene, and both groups harbored the bacterium Streptococcus mutans.
Edge Computing Applications for IoT in Healthcare: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Yaraziz Mahdi Safaei , Bolhasani Hamidreza
Published: July 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Comparative Mitogenomics of Two Critically Endangered Turtles, Batagur Kachuga and Batagur Dhongoka (Testudines: Geoemydidae): Implications in Phylogenetics of Freshwater Turtles
Authors: Kumar Ajit , Yadav Prabhaker , Usmani Aftab , Hussain Syed Ainul , Gupta Sandeep Kumar
Published: July 2021

The Red-crowned roofed turtle (Batagur kachuga) and Three-striped roofed turtle (B. dhongoka) are ‘critically endangered’ turtles in the Geoemydidae family. Herein, we generated the novel mitochondrial genome sequence of B. kachuga (16,155) and B. dhongoka (15,620) and compared it with other turtles species. Batagur mitogenome has 22 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), and one control region (CR). The genome composition was biased toward A + T, with positive AT-skew and negative GC-skew. In the examined species, all 13 PCGs were started by ATG codons, except COI gene, which was initiated by GTG. The majority of mito-genes were encoded on the heavy strand, except eight tRNAs and the ND6 region. We observed a typical cloverleaf structure for all tRNA, excluding tRNASer (AGN), where the base pairs of the dihydrouridine (DHU) arm were abridged. Bayesian Inference (BI) based phylogenetic analysis was constructed among 39 species from six Testudines families, exhibited a close genetic relationship between Batagur and Pangshura with a high supporting value (PP ~ 0.99). It provides additional mitogenomic resources for further study of the Testudines evolutionary patterns.
EFFICACY OF QUADRATUS LUMBORUM BLOCKS IN ROBOTIC NEPHRECTOMY- A RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW.
Authors: B.H Poonam Pai , Lai Yan H. , Onayemi Abimbola , Lin Hung-Mo
Published: July 2021

Abstract: With the implementation of enhanced recovery pathways (ERAS) in kidney surgeries, regional techniques are being considered an important aspect of multimodal analgesia. Abdominal blocks such as quadratus lumborum block (QLB) have been used as an effective analgesic in abdominal surgeries, however their efficacy in kidney surgery remains unknown. To our best knowledge, there are no clinical studies exploring the relationship between QLBs and post-operative opioid consumption in robotic laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Study Objectives: Assess analgesic efficacy between QLB and post-operative opioid consumption in robotic laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Design and Setting: A retrospective chart review was conducted by querying the electronic medical record system of 2,200 bed tertiary academic hospital center in New York City.

Outcomes: The primary measured outcome was postoperative morphine milli equivalent (MME) consumption for the first 24 hours. Secondary outcomes include intra-operative MME, as well as postoperative pain scores measured on a visual analogue scale (VAS) scale at 2, 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours post-operatively.

Results: The mean total post-operative MME in the pQLB group was 11 [4, 18] and 15 [5.6, 28] in the control group (p =.001). There was a significant reduction in intra-operative MME in the QLB group in comparison to the control group. This reduction was not seen in post-operative MME. There was no significant difference in pain scores at any of the measured time points up to 24 hours post-operatively.

Conclusion: Our study provides compelling support that ultrasound guided QLB significantly decreased intra operative opioid requirements but did not have the same effect on postoperative opioid requirements following robotic kidney surgeries in the context of an ERAS pathway.

Keywords: Kidney surgeries, Robotic laparoscopic nephrectomy, quadratus lumborum block (QLB), enhanced recovery pathways (ERAS)
Environmental And Anthropogenic Gravity Contributions At The Þeistareykir Geothermal Field, North Iceland
Authors: Forster Florian , Güntner Andreas , Jousset Philippe , Reich Marvin , Männel Benjamin , Hinderer Jacques , Erbas Kemal
Published: July 2021

Continuous high resolution gravimetry is increasingly used to monitor mass distribution changes in volcanic, hydrothermal or other complex geosystems. To quantify the often small target signals, gravity contributions from, e.g., atmospheric mass changes, global and local hydrology should be accounted for. We set up three iGrav superconducting gravity meters for continuous monitoring of the Þeistareykir geothermal field in North Island. Additionally, we installed a set of hydrometeorological sensors at each station for continuous observation of local pressure changes, soil moisture, snow and vertical surface displacement. We show that the contribution of these environmental parameters to the gravity signal does not exceed 10 µGal (1 µGal = 10-8 m s-2), mainly resulting from vertical displacement and snow accumulation. The seasonal gravity contributions (global atmosphere, local and global hydrology) are in the order of ±2 µGal at each station. Using the environmental observations together with standard gravity corrections for instrumental drift and tidal effects, we comprehensively reduced the iGrav time series. The gravity residuals were compared to groundwater level changes and geothermal mass flow rates (extraction and injection) of the Þeistareykir power plant. The direct response of the groundwater levels and a time-delayed response of the gravity signal to changes in extraction and injection suggest that the geothermal system is subject to a partially confined aquifer. Our observations indicate that a sustainable “equilibrium” state of the reservoir is reached at extraction flow rates below 240 kg s-1 and injection flow rates below 160 kg s-1.
Structure-Guided Steric Hindrance Engineering of Bacillus Badies Phenylalanine Dehydrogenase for Efficient L-Homophenylalanine Synthesis
Authors: Wu Tao , Mu Xiaoqing , Xue Yuyan , Xu Yan , Nie Yao
Published: July 2021

Background: Direct reductive amination of prochiral 2-oxo-4-phenylbutyric acid (2-OPBA) catalyzed by phenylalanine dehydrogenase (PheDH) is highly attractive in the synthesis of the pharmaceutical chiral building block L-homophenylalanine (L-HPA) given that its sole expense is ammonia and that water is the only byproduct. Current issues in this field include a poor catalytic efficiency and a low substrate loading.Results: In this study, we report a structure-guided steric hindrance engineering of PheDH from Bacillus badies to create an enhanced biocatalyst for efficient L-HPA synthesis. Mutagenesis libraries based on molecular docking, double-proximity filtering, and a degenerate codon significantly increased catalytic activity. Seven superior mutants were acquired, and the optimal triple-site mutant V309G/L306V/V144G showed a 12.9-fold higher kcat/Km value than wild-type. A paired reaction system comprising V309G/L306V/V144G and glucose dehydrogenase converted 1.08 M 2-OPBA to L-HPA in 210 min, and the specific space-time conversion was 30.9 mmoL·g−1·L−1·h−1. The substrate loading and specific space-time conversion are the highest values to date. Docking simulation revealed increases in substrate-binding volume and additional degrees of freedom of the substrate 2-OPBA in the pocket. Tunnel analysis suggested the formation of new enzyme tunnels and the expansion of existing ones.Conclusions: Overall, the results show that the mutant V309G/L306V/V144G has the potential for the industrial synthesis of L-HPA. The modified steric hindrance engineering approach can be a valuable addition to the current enzyme engineering toolbox.
High Performance Nanoplasmonic UV/VIS/NIR Photodetector Fabricated in Ambient Condition
Authors: Banerjee Debika , Asuo Ivy , Fortier Francois-Xavier , Pignolet Alain , Cloutier Sylvain
Published: July 2021

Surface plasmon based techniques are widely used to promote the exciton generation and light absorption in solar cells and photodetectors. In this work, a feasible approach for UV-VIS-NIR photodetection using plasmon induced silicon nanowires (SiNWs) and amorphous TiO2 heterostructure is presented. The photodetector shows excellent photoresponse up to 3.5 orders of magnitude enhancement with a rise/decay time constants of 0.75/0.5 µs. Under small bias (1V), the photodetector exhibits very high responsivity up to 49 A/W at 532 nm irradiation over a broadband wavelength range from 300–1100 nm. These figures of merits represent the excellent performance over the reported heterojunction based photodetectors. Our finding offers new opportunities to engineer plasmon-based nanostructures in different fields like chemical sensors, optoelectronics and nanophotonics applications.
A novel neuromotor reprogramming treatment modality for temporomandibular disorders: a pilot retrospective observational study
Authors: Franck Remillieux , anjos Typhanie Dos , Gilles Chaufferin , Philippe Gerentes
Published: July 2021

Background

The purpose of this investigation was to determine if neuromotor programming using the ALLYANE® process would significantly improve mouth-opening capacity in patients suffering from temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
Methods

A total of 21 adult patients (20 females and 1 male; mean age = 44 years) who underwent a rehabilitation session with neuromotor reprogramming were included. Maximal mouth opening (MMO) was measured before and just after neuromotor reprogramming session.
Results

The results showed a statistically significant (p < 0.001) mean gain of 4.95 mm (+ 13%) after neuromotor reprogramming. Furthermore, this preliminary study showed that the gain registered in patients with a lower-than-normal mouth opening and improvement of lateral movements were greater than the one obtained with the other patients.
Conclusions

Although these preliminary results need confirmation, the study suggests that the use of neuromotor reprogramming in patients suffering from TMD could present new possibilities for enhanced outcomes, in particular to relax the stomatognathic system with a noninvasive, reversible therapy without known side effects, providing open new perspectives in the area of joint diseases.
Analysis of the Intestinal Microbial Community Altered During Rotavirus Infection in Suckling Mice
Authors: Zhao wei , Tao xiaoli , Yu Meiling , Cheng Meihui , Liu Changcheng , Liu Yang , Li Yong Gang
Published: July 2021

Background：Rotavirus (RV) is a principal cause of diarrhea. However, there is a limited understanding regarding alteration of the gut microbial community structure and abundance during RV infection. This study was to characterize any potential associations between RV infection and the intestinal microbiota. Methods: Suckling mice were divided into normal group (NC) and infected group (RV) randomly. All of the suckling mice were euthanized four days post-RV infection. The virus titer was counted as fluorescent focus assay (FFA), and viral load was quantified by QPCR. Five sucking mice were randomly selected from each RV group and NC group for sample collection and pathological analysis. All of the suckling mice mixed intestinal contents of the colon and rectum were collected. To investigate the detailed relationship between RV infection and intestinal microbiota, the composition and distribution of intestinal microbiota from suckling mice were first analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing technology. Results: The results of the pathological characteristics showed that vacuolar degeneration, vasodilation, hyperemia, and destruction of the intestinal epithelium were apparent in the RV group. Representative genera from Lactobacillus and Fusobacterium were enriched in the NC group, while the Enterococcus and Escherichia/Shigella genera were enriched in the RV group. Helicobacter, Alloprevotrlla, Brevundimonas, Paenibacillus, and Parabacteroides were completely undetectable in the RV group. The predicted intestinal flora metabolic function results showed that “carbohydrate metabolism” and “lipid metabolism” pathways were significantly enriched within the NC group. A significant difference has been observed in the gut microbiota composition between the two groups. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated a significant difference in the gut microbiota composition in RV-infected suckling mice as compared to the RV un-infected suckling mice group. This work may provide meaningful information regarding the bacterial genera changed during RV infection. Moreover, the changes in these bacteria may affect the replication of RV and contribute to the pathogenesis of RV infection.
Influence of serum vitamin D status on severe sarcopenia among female patients with rheumatoid arthritis: the KURAMA database
Authors: Minamino Hiroto , Katsushima Masao , Torii Mie , Yamamoto Wataru , Fujita Yoshihito , Ikeda Kaori , Okamura Emi , Murakami Kosaku , Watanabe Ryu , Murata Koichi , Ito Hiromu , Tanaka Masao , Arai Hidenori , Matsuda Shuichi , Morinobu Akio , Inagaki Nobuya , Hashimoto Motomu
Published: July 2021

Sarcopenia is an age-related disease with an increased risk of mortality. It is emerging that low serum vitamin D (25(OH)D) affects the sarcopenic state in general, but in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), these associations are not understood although the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is high in RA. We conducted a cross-sectional study of older female outpatients from our cohort (KURAMA) database. We measured skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength, and gait-speed to diagnose severe sarcopenia. The serum 25(OH)D concentration was measured using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. A total of 156 Patients (sarcopenia:44.9%, severe sarcopenia: 29.5%, and without sarcopenia: 25.6%) were enrolled. Classification of vitamin D status at a cutoff point of median 25(OH)D concentration revealed that low 25(OH)D status was associated with a high prevalence of severe sarcopenia and with low measured values of muscle mass, handgrip, and gait-speed. Furthermore, multiple regression analysis identified that low 25(OH)D status was associated with a high prevalence of severe sarcopenia (OR 6.00; 95% CI 1.99–18.08). In components of sarcopenia, both low physical performance and muscle mass were associated with low 25(OH) status. In conclusion, vitamin D levels are associated with severe sarcopenia and its components, and modification of vitamin D status including vitamin D supplementation may play a role in improving sarcopenia in RA.
Vehicles Routing Arrangement for Prevention and Suppression Patrol: Process Model of Police Stations in Thailand
Authors: Muangpan Thanyaphat , Muangpan Tuedpong
Published: July 2021

Coronavirus disease has affected to economic economics and society results in the, resulting in increasing crime problems increasing. Under circumstances with limited patrol officers, the prevention and suppression operations must be analyzed for vehicle routing for prevention and suppression patrols to reduce the patrol distance, time and fuel. This research aims to analyze the vehicle routing arrangement of the prevention and suppression patrol officers and to develop a routing process model of the prevention and suppression patrol management. Quantitative research is applied with Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) the traveling salesman problem (TSP), which is utilized to established the establish prevention and suppression patrol routes. The qualitative Qualitative research is applied with content analysis, which is utilized to develop to the routing process model. The vehicle routes of the prevention and suppression patrol are arranged in the route set. These results are shown show the average of the route, distance and shortest patrol time of the patrol officers, which are cover all risk point patrol. Also, patrols. Additionally, a patrol routing model is presented to arrange the process of prevention and suppression patrol operation. This key process is applied to well manage the prevention and suppression patrol well, and these benefits are to reduce the patrol distance, patrol time and fuel cost. Additionally, this practice has increased the patrol rounds at risk points, resulting in the reduction in crimes and upgrading the good practices in patrol operations.
Somatic health care professionals’ stigmatization of patients with mental disorder: a scoping review
Authors: Sølvhøj Ida Nielsen , Kusier Amalie Oxholm , Pedersen Pia Vivian , Nielsen Maj Britt Dahl
Published: July 2021

Background

Patients with mental disorders have an increased risk of developing somatic disorders, just as they have a higher risk of dying from them. These patients often report feeling devaluated and rejected by health professionals in the somatic health care system, and increasing evidence shows that disparities in health care provision contribute to poor health outcomes. The aim of this review was to map and synthesize literature on somatic health professionals’ stigmatization toward patients with mental disorders.
Methods

We conducted a scoping review using Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and carried out a systematic search in three databases: Cinahl, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO in May-June 2019. Peer-reviewed articles published in English or Scandinavian languages during 2008–2019 were reviewed according to title, abstract and full-text reading. We organized and analyzed data using NVivo.
Results

A total of 137 articles meeting the eligibility criteria were reviewed and categorized as observational studies (n = 73) and intervention studies (n = 64). A majority of studies (N = 85) focused on patients with an unspecified number of mental disorders, while 52 studies focused on specific diagnoses, primarily schizophrenia (n = 13), self-harm (n = 13), and eating disorders (n = 9). Half of the studies focused on health students (n = 64), primarily nursing students (n = 26) and medical students (n = 25), while (n = 66) focused on health care professionals, primarily emergency staff (n = 16) and general practitioners (n = 13). Additionally, seven studies focused on both health professionals and students. A detailed characterization of the identified intervention studies was conducted, resulting in eight main types of interventions.
Conclusions

The large number of studies identified in this review suggests that stigmatizing attitudes and behaviors toward patients with mental disorders is a worldwide challenge within a somatic health care setting. For more targeted interventions, there is a need for further research on underexposed mental diagnoses and knowledge on whether specific health professionals have a more stigmatizing attitude or behavior toward specific mental disorders.
Circulating microRNA-7 regulates insulin, inflammatory and GnRH signaling pathways by targeting IRS1, IRS2, and RAF1 genes in gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: BHUSHAN Ravi , Rani Anjali , Gupta Deepali , Ali Akhtar , Tripathi Anima , Dubey Pawan K
Published: July 2021

Aims/hypothesisSmall non-coding micro RNAs (miRNAs) are indicated in various metabolic processes and play a critical role in disease pathology, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The purpose of this study was to examine the altered expression of miRNAs and their target genes in placental tissue (PL), cord blood (CB), and maternal blood (MB) of matched non-glucose tolerant (NGT) and GDM mother. MethodsIn a case-control study, micro-RNA was quantified from forty-five serum (MB n = 15, CB n = 15, and PL n = 15) and matched placental tissue using stem-loop RT-qPCR followed by target prediction, network construction and functional and pathways enrichment analysis. Further, target genes were verified in-vitro through transfection and RT-qPCR. ResultsFive miRNAs, namely hsa-let 7a-5P, hsa-miR7-5P, hsa-miR9-5P, hsa-miR18a-5P, and hsa-miR23a-3P, were significantly over-expressed (p < 0.05) in all three samples namely PL, CB, and MB of GDM patients. However, the sample-wise comparison reveals higher expression of miRNA 7 in MB while lowest in CB than control. Furthermore, a comparison of fold change expression of target genes discloses a lower expression of IRS1, IRS2, and RAF1 in MB while comparatively higher expression of NRAS in MB and CB. In-vitro validation reveals lower expression of IRS1/2 and RAF1 in response to overexpression of miR-7 and vice-versa. Thus it is evident that increased miRNA7 expression causes down-regulation of its target genes IRS1, IRS2, and RAF1 in GDM mother compared to control. Further, target prediction, pathway enrichment, and hormone analysis (significantly higher FSH & LH in MB of GDM compared to NGT) revealed the insulin signaling, inflammatory and GnRH signaling as major pathways regulated by miRNA7. Conclusions/InterpretationsThus, an elevated level of miRNA7 may be associated with the progression of GDM by altering the multiple pathways like insulin, GnRH, and inflammatory signaling pathways via targeting IRS1, IRS2, and RAF1, implicating a new therapeutic target for GDM.
­­SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein: from genomic data to structural new insights
Authors: Marques-Pereira Catarina , Pires Manuel , Gouveia Raquel , Pereira Nadia , Caniceiro Ana , Rosário-Ferreira Nicia , Moreira Irina
Published: July 2021

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is composed by four structural proteins and several accessory non-structural proteins. SARS-CoV-2's most abundant structural protein, Membrane (M) protein, has a pivotal role both during viral infection cycle and host interferon antagonism. This is a highly conserved viral protein, thus an interesting and suitable target for drug discovery.In this paper, we explain the structural and dynamic nature of M protein homodimer. To do so, we developed and applied a detailed and robust in silico workflow to predict M protein dimeric structure, membrane orientation, and interface characterization. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in M protein were retrieved from over 1.2 M SARS-CoV-2 genomes and proteins from the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) database, 91 of which were located at the predicted dimer interface. Among those, we identified SNPs in Variants of Concern (VOC) and Variants of Interest (VOI). Binding free energy differences were evaluated for dimer interfacial SNPs to infer mutant protein stabilities. A few high-prevalent mutated residues were found to be especially relevant in VOC and VOI. This realization may be a game changer to structure driven formulation of new therapeutics for SARS-CoV-2.
Ethnobotanical survey of plants traditionally used to treat lymphatic filariasis in southern, Western and northwestern provinces of Zambia
Authors: chimbwali Lawrence
Published: July 2021

Lymphatic filariasis is caused by three thread-like parasitic worms, called filariae. The infection damages the lymphatic system, increasing the risk for secondary infections and complications. Folks rely on Traditional healers as first line of care for most LF patients living in the community, most patients only go to the health facility once the symptoms have progressed and the pain worsened. This present review discuses some of medicinal plants that are used to treat LF in Southern, Western and Northwestern provinces of Zambia. The results of the survey found 17 plants from 15 different families were being used to treat LF, with the oral and topical route being the most common routes administration.
Predictors of Lethal Outcomes in Patients with Refractory Septic Shock
Authors: Kochkin А. А. , Yadgarov M. Ya. , Berikashvili L. B. , Perekhodov S. N. , Likhvantsev V. V.
Published: July 2021

Early prediction of disease severity helps clinicians prevent adverse events and/or minimize losses in the event of a life-threatening complication. This provision fully applies to refractory septic shock, in which norepinephrine administration at a dose exceeding 0.5 μg/kg-1/min-1 is needed to maintain mean arterial pressure.The objective: to determine predictors of lethal outcomes in patients with refractory septic shock.Subjects and methods. A retrospective study included 79 patients with refractory septic shock aged from 42 to 74 years (59.7 ± 7.8), with severity of the condition as per SOFA varying from 8 to 16 scores. The predictive value of indicators was assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses.Results. In multivariate analysis, the only significant predictor of an unfavorable outcome was the SOFA score (adj. OR: 1.626 [95% CI: 1.313; 2.014], p < 0.001). Other putative indicators (age, oxygenation index, lactate and procalcitonin concentrations, and norepinephrine dose) had no predictive value.Conclusion: The SOFA score is an independent predictor of lethality in adult patients with refractory septic shock (аdj. OR: 1.26 [95% CI: 1.313; 2.014], p < 0.001). According to the results of the ROC analysis, along with SOFA, norepinephrine dose was also a significant predictor (AUC 0.989 [95% CI 0.934; 1.000], p < 0.001).
International Survey on Calcium Use when Weaning from Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Lomivorotov V. V. , Ismoilov S. M. , Boboshko V. А. , Landoni G.
Published: July 2021

The objective: to evaluate the international practice of using calcium salts when weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass after cardiac surgery in adult patients.Design: a multiple-choice survey about the current practice of calcium salts use when weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass based on the SurveyMonkey platform.Participants: cardiac surgical hospitals around the world.Estimation and main results. Totally 112 emails were sent to Russian and foreign centers inviting them to participate in the survey. 100 centers from 32 countries replied to this request. Generally, the majority of centers (88%) administer calcium salts during surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, and in 71 (71%) centers out of 100, calcium salts are used to improve hemodynamics. Among 88 centers that use calcium salts during surgery, 66% (58/88) of respondents use calcium chloride, 22% (19/88) use calcium gluconate, and 12% (11/88) use both drugs. Most centers (55 (77%) out of 71) use doses of 5 to 15 mg/kg as a bolus or infusion for 1 min.Conclusion: Our survey shows that the majority of cardiac surgery centers use calcium in adult cardiac surgery patients especially during weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. There is variability in the type of drug, dose, and route of administration.
Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with the New Coronavirus Infection
Authors: Polushin Yu. S. , Аkmalova R. V. , Bovkun I. V. , Sokolov D. V. , Shlyk I. V. , Gavrilova E. G. , Parshin E. V.
Published: July 2021

Estimations of the frequency of acute kidney injury in SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) coronavirus disease are very diverse. The literature data is highly inconsistent and shows AKI ranging from 0.5 to 80%.The objective: to analyze the incidence of renal dysfunction in COVID-19 patients and assess the significance of systemic inflammation for its development.Subjects and methods: The analysis was performed basing on data of 3,806 patients with COVID-19 treated at the Pavlov State Medical University, 395 of them were admitted to the intensive care units (ICU). The criterion for establishing renal dysfunction (RD) is the increase in blood creatinine level above the upper limit of reference values (0.115 mmol/l). Patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease who needed to continue routine long-term dialysis were not included in the study. We analyzed the incidence of renal dysfunction, changes in blood levels of creatinine, urea, and electrolytes during 8 days. In addition, glomerular filtration rate, diuresis volume, levels of hematocrit, hemoglobin, LDH, CRP, ferritin, and procalcitonin were evaluated.Results. The frequency of RD among all patients was 19.0%, among patients in the ICU – 41.0%. In 79% and 81%, respectively, it was detected on the first day of hospitalization. The increase in the number of patients with RD and the aggravation of the existing dysfunction occurred after 6 days. At the initial stage of the disease, the manifestations of RD in most cases were not expressed even in those with an unfavorable course of the disease but the level of creatinine showed a weak but significant (p < 0.5) correlation with changes in CRP (r = 0.110), ferritin (r = 0.137), and procalcitonin (PCT, r = 0.418). The difference in the level of creatinine in patients with PСT level above and below 0.5 ng/ml was observed on the first day only; the value of this parameter returned to normal faster in the subgroup of patients whose procalcitonin level did not exceed 0.5 ng/ml.Conclusion. In case of the signs indicative of RD, it is advisable to distinguish between primary and secondary injury. In the first case, it is primarily due to systemic inflammation, in the second case it is caused by additional impact of other aggressive factors. This will make it possible to clarify the renal and non-renal indications for renal replacement therapy (RRT) in patients with COVID-19, and to evaluate the results adequately since the effectiveness of RRT at different stages of the disease cannot be the same.
Tales from the Underground: Speleothem Records of Past Hydroclimate
Authors: Johnson Kathleen R.
Published: July 2021

Geochemical records from speleothems have significantly advanced our understanding of natural climate variability over the last ~600,000 years. Speleothems are sensitive recorders of past changes in hydroclimate because they can be precisely dated and contain multiple hydrologically sensitive geochemical proxies. Oxygen isotope records from speleothems tell us about the timing and mechanisms of past changes in precipitation amount, temperature, atmospheric circulation, and/or global monsoon intensity. Variations in speleothem carbon isotope ratios or trace element concentrations reflect changes in local water balance, vegetation, and karst hydrology. Speleothem paleoclimate records represent a window into the past that can provide crucial information for understanding how anthropogenic climate change and natural climate variability will impact future water resources on Earth.