bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of methods to generate adaptive reference ranges in longitudinal monitoring
Authors: Roshan Davood , Ferguson John , Pedlar Charles R. , Simpkin Andrew , Wyns William , Sullivan Frank , Newell John
Published: February 2021

In a clinical setting, biomarkers are typically measured and evaluated as biological indicators of a physiological state. Population based reference ranges, known as ‘static’ or ‘normal’ reference ranges, are often used as a tool to classify a biomarker value for an individual as typical or atypical. However, these ranges may not be informative to a particular individual when considering changes in a biomarker over time since each observation is assessed in isolation and against the same reference limits. To allow early detection of unusual physiological changes, adaptation of static reference ranges is required that incorporates within-individual variability of biomarkers arising from longitudinal monitoring in addition to between-individual variability. To overcome this issue, methods for generating individualised reference ranges are proposed within a Bayesian framework which adapts successively whenever a new measurement is recorded for the individual. This new Bayesian approach also allows the within-individual variability to differ for each individual, compared to other less flexible approaches. However, the Bayesian approach usually comes with a high computational cost, especially for individuals with a large number of observations, that diminishes its applicability. This difficulty suggests that a computational approximation may be required. Thus, methods for generating individualised adaptive ranges by the use of a time-efficient approximate Expectation-Maximisation (EM) algorithm will be presented which relies only on a few sufficient statistics at the individual level.
LIGHT (TNFSF14) enhances osteogenesis of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Heo Sook-Kyoung , Choi Yunsuk , Jeong Yoo Kyung , Ju Lan Jeong , Yu Ho-Min , Kim Do Kyoung , Seo Hye Jin , Lee Yoo Jin , Cheon Jaekyung , Koh SuJin , Min Young Joo , Noh Eui-Kyu , Jo Jae-Cheol
Published: February 2021

Osteoporosis is a progressive systemic skeletal disease associated with decreased bone mineral density and deterioration of bone quality, and it affects millions of people worldwide. Currently, it is treated mainly using antiresorptive and osteoanabolic agents. However, these drugs have severe adverse effects. Cell replacement therapy using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could serve as a treatment strategy for osteoporosis in the future. LIGHT (HVEM-L, TNFSF14, or CD258) is a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily. However, the effect of recombinant LIGHT (rhLIGHT) on osteogenesis in human bone marrow-derived MSCs (hBM-MSCs) is unknown. Therefore, we monitored the effects of LIGHT on osteogenesis of hBM-MSCs. Lymphotoxin-β receptor (LTβR), which is a LIGHT receptor, was constitutively expressed on the surface of hBM-MSCs. After rhLIGHT treatment, calcium and phosphate deposition in hBM-MSCs, stained by Alizarin red and von Kossa, respectively, significantly increased. We performed quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to examine the expressions of osteoprogenitor markers (RUNX2/CBFA1 and collagen I alpha 1) and osteoblast markers (alkaline phosphatase, osterix/Sp7, and osteocalcin) and immunoblotting to assess the underlying biological mechanisms following rhLIGHT treatment. We found that rhLIGHT treatment enhanced von Kossa- and Alizarin red-positive hBM-MSCs and induced the expression of diverse differentiation markers of osteogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. WNT/β-catenin pathway activation strongly mediated rhLIGHT-induced osteogenesis of hBM-MSCs, accelerating the differentiation of hBM-MSCs into osteocytes. In conclusion, the interaction between LIGHT and LTβR enhances osteogenesis of hBM-MSCs. Therefore, LIGHT might play an important role in stem cell therapy.
Visualization of endogenous gut bacteria in Drosophila melanogaster using fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Akhtar Irfan , Stewart Fiona A. , Härle Anna , Droste Andrea , Beller Mathias
Published: February 2021

All metazoans are colonized by a complex and diverse set of microorganisms. The microbes colonize all parts of the body and are especially abundant in the gastrointestinal tract, where they constitute the gut microbiome. The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster turned out to be an exquisite model organism to functionally test the importance of an intact gut microbiome. Still, however, fundamental questions remain unanswered. For example, it is unknown whether a fine-tuned regionalization of the gut microbiome exists and how such a spatial organization could be established. In order to pave the way for answering this question, we generated an optimized and adapted fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) protocol. We focused on the detection of the two major Drosophila gut microbiome constituting bacteria genera: Acetobacter and Lactobacillus. FISH allows to detect the bacteria in situ and thus to investigate their spatial localization in respect to the host as well as to other microbiome members. We demonstrate the applicability of the protocol using a diverse set of sample types.
The porcine corneal surface bacterial microbiome: A distinctive niche within the ocular surface
Authors: Leis Marina L. , Madruga Gabriela M. , Costa Matheus O.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The ocular surface microbiome has been described as paucibacterial. Until now, studies investigating the bacterial community associated with the ocular surface through high-throughput sequencing have focused on the conjunctiva. Conjunctival samples are thought to reflect and be representative of the microbiome residing on the ocular surface, including the cornea. Here, we hypothesized that the bacterial community associated with the corneal surface was different from those of the inferonasal and superotemporal conjunctival fornices, and from the tear film.

Methods

Both eyes from 15 healthy piglets were sampled using swabs (inferonasal fornix, superotemporal fornix, and corneal surface,n= 30 each) and Schirmer tear test strips (STT,n= 30). Negative sampling controls (swabs and STT,n= 2 each) and extraction controls (n= 4) were included. Total DNA was extracted and high-throughput sequencing targeting the 16S rRNA gene was performed. Bioinformatic analyses included multiple contamination-controlling steps.

Results

Corneal surface samples had a significantly lower number of taxa detected (P<0.01) and were compositionally different from all other sample types (Bray-Curtis dissimilarity,P<0.04). It also harbored higher levels of Proteobacteria (P<0.05), specificallyBrevundimonasspp. (4.1-fold) andParacoccusspp. (3.4-fold) than other sample types. Negative control STT strip samples yielded the highest amount of 16S rRNA gene copies across all sample types (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Our data suggests that the corneal surface provides a distinct environmental niche within the ocular surface, leading to a bacterial community compositionally different from all other sample types.
Effects of long-term plate fixation with different fixation modes on the radial cortical bone in dogs
Authors: Muroi Norihiro , Ochi Hiroki , Shimada Masakazu , Asou Yoshinori , Hara Yasushi
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of long-term locking plate fixation on the cortical bone of the canine radius. Locking compression plates were fixed to the left and right radius in dogs (n = 3). The left radius was fixed with a locking head screw (Locking Plate group, LP). The locking compression plate was compressed periosteally in the right radius using a cortex screw (Compression Plate group, CP). Radial bones from dogs that were euthanized for other purposes were collected as an untreated control group (Control group). After euthanasia at 36 weeks following plate fixation, radial bones were evaluated for bone mineral density and underwent histological analysis. Bone metabolic markers were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Statistical analyses were performed for comparisons between groups. The LP group showed no significant difference in bone mineral density after plate fixation, whereas the CP group showed significantly lower bone mineral density. Histological analysis indicated that the number of osteoclasts and rate of empty lacunae increased significantly in the CP group relative to the Control and LP groups. qPCR analysis indicated increased expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 11 in the CP group, whereas Runt-related transcription factor 2, an osteoblast marker, was similar in all groups. The expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α in the CP group was also increased relative to that in the Control and LP groups. Thus, locking plate fixation is a biologically superior fixation method that does not cause implant-induced osteoporosis in the bone in the long term.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of antenatal exercises among pregnant women in Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Janakiraman Balamurugan , Gebreyesus Tsiwaye , Yihunie Mulualem , Genet Moges Gashaw
Published: February 2021

Background

“Is pregnancy opportunity or a barrier for engaging in exercise”. Maternal health still is a top priority in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. Participation in exercises during pregnancy in low-middle income countries is constrained. The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of antenatal exercises among Ethiopian women during pregnancy, and also to examine the barriers to prenatal physical activity.

Methods

A descriptive hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted and 349 pregnant women receiving prenatal care at the ante-natal care clinic, University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital were recruited. Data were obtained on maternal characteristics, knowledge, attitude, practice, and barriers towards antenatal exercise (ANEx) by interview method.

Results

Among 349 pregnant women, 138 (39.5%) and 193 (55.3%) had adequate knowledge, a positive attitude, and good practice respectively. Overall, 108 (30.9) of the respondents practiced antenatal exercise, while only 41 (37.9%) of those pregnant women had a good practice. Brisk walking (90.7%), relaxation (38.9%), and breathing exercise (36.1%) were most practice ANEx, while pelvic floor 6 (5.6%) and 3 (2.8%) yoga were the least practiced. Enhancing post-natal recovery (71%) and vaginal bleeding (64.5) were perceived as benefits and contraindication of ANEx. More than half of the pregnant women (53.6) reported that ANEx is not appropriate for Ethiopian culture. Knowledge, attitude, and practice of ANEx among pregnant women are significantly associated with higher education, government employees, pre-pregnancy exercise, and being advised on ANEx before. Women with adequate knowledge are more likely to have a good practice (AOR 4.53, 95%CI: 1.64, 15.3).

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that knowledge concerning antenatal exercise is low and their attitude is reasonably favorable. However, very few Ethiopian pregnant practices ANEx according to recommended guidelines during pregnancy.
War, types, and Mandevilla (Apocynaceae): a new species and the rediscovery of a rare species from Brazil
Authors: Morales J. Francisco , Kollmann Ludovic J. C.
Published: February 2021

The true identity of Mandevilla luetzelburgii (Apocynaceae) is clarified and the new M. bullata, largely misidentified as the former species, is described. Drawings for both species are given and a key for morphologically related species is provided. A lectotype is selected for Dipladenia luetzelburgii Ross & Markgr. Mandevilla bullata is assessed as Endangered (EN) and M. luetzelburgii as Critically Endangered (CR), according to IUCN criteria.
Vegetación de un área polderizada del Río de la Plata en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires: la Reserva Ecológica Ciudad Universitaria - Costanera Norte
Authors: Melzi Fiorenza Rocío , Sirolli Horacio , Picca Pablo I.
Published: February 2021

Coastal reclamation constitutes a world trend and can result in new ecosystems adapted to the new coastal configuration. In Buenos Aires City, the “Ciudad Universitaria - Costanera Norte” Ecological Reserve (RECU-CN) constitutes one example of the expansion of the coastline in the Río de la Plata sector, carried out in the late 1960s. Given the lack of published works generated systematically that cover the entire area, we set as the objective to describe the RECU-CN vascular plant vegetation. For this, a systematic sampling was carried out in 79 plots of 25 m2, where the coverage of each of the vascular plant species present was registered. We identified 154 taxa, corresponding to 144 species, 123 genus and 58 families, and the total richness was estimated as 238 species. Trees and herbs had the highest coverage of all life forms. Through multivariate analysis, three vegetation units (Wetland, Forest and Grassland with groves) and 10 vascular plant communities were recognized. Vegetation was ordered according to two gradients: one of flood and another of anthropization. From the comparison with the typical plant communities of the region, similarities were found only with those registered in the Wetland unit. Results highlight that both the coexistence of physiognomically diverse vegetation units, as well as the native composition found in the plant communities of the Wetland unit, constitute main conservation values of the protected area.
Praxelis clematidea (Asteraceae, Eupatorieae, Praxelinae) in Uruguay: first record of the genus and the species
Authors: Salgado Vanina G. , Grossi Mariana A. , González H. Andrés , Gutiérrez Diego G.
Published: February 2021

During the revision of the southern South American species of Praxelis, populations of P. clematidea were found in northwestern Uruguay. In this study, we provide the first record of the genus and the species for the Uruguayan flora, along with taxonomic and morphological analyses based on herbarium specimens and field observations. In addition, uses of P. clematidea, its distribution and habitat, common names, an illustration and a key to differentiate the species of Praxelis of Uruguay and surrounding areas of Argentina and Brazil are presented.
High Performance MPPT Approach for Off-Line PV System Equipped With Storage Batteries and Electrolyzer
Authors: Anagreh Yaser Nawwaf , Alnassan Ayat , Radaideh Ashraf
Published: February 2021

The current publication is directed to achieve a high-performance stand-alone PV system having the capability of tracking maximum output power, providing fixed output DC voltage, and attaining efficient system utilization, under different irradiation levels. A new maximum power point tracking (MPPT) approach integrating the incremental conductance algorithm and fuzzy logic control, and enhanced with PI-controller, was proposed to track maximum power. To provide fixed output DC voltage and approaching full system utilization, the PV system is equipped with a battery bank, electrolyzer; as a dump load, and buck-boost converter, with two controllers. The results of the proposed MPPT technique; modified incremental conductance (MINC), are compared with the corresponding results of three prevalently implemented MPPT algorithms: perturbed and observed (P&O), modified variable step-size P&O (VSZ-PO) and the ordinarily incremental conductance (INC). The highest output power, best tracking efficiency and best output power response are achieved by utilizing the proposed MPPT method. The results of the output voltage response and electrolizer on/off states confirm the ability of the PV scheme to provide fixed DC voltage and attain efficient system utilization, under varying irradiances.
Distribution and translation
Authors: Lee Tong King
Published: February 2021

Translation has traditionally been viewed as a branch of applied linguistics. This has changed drastically in recent decades, which have witnessed translation studies growing as a field beyond, and sometimes against, applied linguistics. This paper is an attempt to think translation back into applied linguistics by reconceptualizing translation through the notions of distributed language, semiotic repertoire, and assemblage. It argues that: (a) embedded within a larger textual-media ecology, translation is enacted through dialogical interaction among the persons, texts, technologies, platforms, institutions, and traditions operating within that ecology; (b) what we call translations are second-order constructs, or relatively stable formations of signs abstracted from the processual flux of translating on the first-order; (c) translation is not just about moving a work from one discrete language system across to another, but about distributing it through semiotic repertoires; (d) by orchestrating resources performatively, translations are not just interventions in the target language and culture, but are transformative of the entire translingual and multimodal space (discursive, interpretive, material) surrounding a work. The paper argues that distributed thinking helps us de-fetishize translation as an object of study and reimagine translators as partaking of a creative network of production alongside other human and non-human agents.
Knowledge, Awareness and Probabilistic Beliefs
Authors: Sadzik Tomasz
Published: February 2021

Bayesian game theory investigates strategic interaction of players with full awareness but incomplete information about their environment. We extend the analysis to players with incomplete awareness, who might not be able to reason about all contingencies in the first place. We develop three logical systems for knowledge, probabilistic beliefs and awareness, and characterize their axiom systems. Bayesian equilibrium is extended to games with incomplete awareness and we show that it is consistent with common prior and speculative trade, when common knowledge of rationality is violated.
ABCB1 polymorphism in clopidogrel-treated Montenegrin patients
Authors: Mugosa Snezana , Todorovic Zoran , Cukic Jelena , Sahman-Zaimovic Majda , Djordjevic Natasa
Published: February 2021

Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet drug that displays significant interindividual variability in treatment response. Its bioavailability depends on the function of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), which is coded by a highly polymorphic ABCB1 gene. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ABCB1 genetic polymorphism on clopidogrel efficacy and safety and to determine the frequency distribution of its most common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 106 Montenegrin cardiology patients. Clopidogrel efficacy and safety were followed up during 1 year after hospitalization, with the lack of efficacy and adverse drug reactions observed in 11 (10.4%) and 8 patients (7.5%), respectively. Genotyping for ABCB1 SNPs rs1128503 (1236C > T), rs2032582 (2677G > A/T), and rs1045642 (3435C > T) was performed by the real-time PCR method, and the variant alleles were detected with the frequencies of 42.9, 44.8, and 52.8%, respectively. No significant association was observed between any of the examined genotypes and clopidogrel efficacy (p = 0.253) or safety (p = 0.424). Due to small sample size, co-treatment with other drugs, and other genetic factors not taken into account, we believe the absence of correlation between ABCB1 genotypes and indicators of clopidogrel efficacy and safety in this study should be apprehended conditionally, and that larger and better-controlled studies are warranted.
Incidence, characteristics and outcomes among inpatient, outpatient and emergency department with reported high critical serum potassium values
Authors: Kuo Wei-Hung , You Huey-Ling , Huang Wan-Ting , Lee Yueh-Ting , Chiou Terry Ting-Yu , Ng Hwee-Yeong , Lee Chien-Te
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Severe hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, or death. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and the associated factors relevant to critical hyperkalemia (≥6 mmol/L) among inpatients, outpatients, and emergency department. Their clinical outcomes were also analyzed.

Methods

All patients whose high serum potassium values had been reported as critical laboratory values in 2016 were enrolled. Their demographic data, comorbidities, clinical symptoms, biochemical data, and outcomes were reviewed and collected. The Charlson comorbidity score (CCS) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were computed to assess the comorbidity burden and renal function. Patients were divided into groups according to different settings, potassium and GFR levels, and their survival.

Results

Of the 293,830 total serum potassium tests, 1,382 (0.47%) reports were listed as critical laboratory values. The average reply time was 6.3 min. Their mean age was 67.2 years, while the average GFR was 12.2 mL/min/1.73 m2. The overall mortality rate was 34%. Patients in the emergency department had the highest incidence (0.92%), while inpatients had the worst outcome (51% mortality). The leading cause of mortality was septic shock. The fatal group had higher rates of clinical symptoms, higher potassium values, CCS, and eGFR (all p<0.05).

Conclusions

Most of the responses for the reports were obtained within a short period of time. Patients with reported high critical serum potassium values were characterized by high rates of comorbidity, reduced eGFR, and mortality. The incidence, clinical manifestations, and outcomes varied in the different clinical settings.
A low level of CD16pos monocytes in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients is a marker of severity
Authors: Vasse Marc , Zuber Benjamin , Goubeau Laurie , Ballester Marie-Christine , Roumier Mathilde , Delcominette Frédérique , Habarou Florence , Jolly Emilie , Ackermann Felix , Cerf Charles , Farfour Eric , Pascreau Tiffany
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Severe forms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are characterized by an excessive production of inflammatory cytokines. Activated monocytes secrete high levels of cytokines. Human monocytes are divided into three major populations: conventional (CD14posCD16neg), non-classical (CD14dimCD16pos), and intermediate (CD14posCD16pos) monocytes. The aim of this study was to analyze whether the distribution of conventional (CD16neg) and CD16pos monocytes is different in patients with COVID-19 and whether the variations could be predictive of the outcome of the disease.

Methods

We performed a prospective study on 390 consecutive patients referred to the Emergency Unit, with a proven diagnosis of SARS-CoV 2 infection by RT-PCR. Using the CytoDiff™ reagent, an automated routine leukocyte differential, we quantified CD16neg and CD16pos monocytes.

Results

In the entire population, median CD16neg and CD16pos monocyte levels (0.398 and 0.054×109/L, respectively) were in the normal range [(0.3–0.7×109/L) and (0.015–0.065×109/L), respectively], but the 35 patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) had a significantly (p<0.001) lower CD16pos monocyte count (0.018 × 109/L) in comparison to the 70 patients who were discharged (0.064 × 109/L) or were hospitalized in conventional units (0.058 × 109/L). By ROC curve analysis, the ratio [absolute neutrophil count/CD16pos monocyte count] was highly discriminant to identify patients requiring ICU hospitalization: with a cut-off 193.1, the sensitivity and the specificity were 74.3 and 81.8%, respectively (area under the curve=0.817).

Conclusions

Quantification of CD16pos monocytes and the ratio [absolute neutrophil count/CD16pos monocyte count] could constitute a marker of the severity of disease in COVID-19 patients.
Presidential Home Style: Trump in the Era of COVID-19
Authors: Just Marion R. , Saraceno Joseph , Crigler Ann N.
Published: February 2021

In Homestyle: House Members in their Districts (1978) Richard Fenno argued that members of Congress utilize different “home styles” when communicating with various segments of their constituency. These tailored, face-to-face interactions help build trust, are essential to the reelection effort, and shape member behavior once in office. In this paper, we reconfigure and extend Fenno’s theory to help explain presidential (in)action in the digital age. By analyzing President Trump’s daily press briefings and social media presence during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, we argue that just as a representative’s home style carries over into governance, the same can be said for a president in what we have called “presidential home styles.” We find that the characteristics that made Trump a successful campaigner in the 2016 election are not conducive to effective governance, especially during a crisis.
Legislator Adoption of the Fake News Label: Ideological Differences in Republican Representative Use on Twitter
Authors: Cowburn Mike , Oswald Michael T.
Published: February 2021

We examine the extent to which Republican members of the House of Representatives have attempted to delegitimize established media by adopting thefake news labelon Twitter since Donald Trump’s election. We find that a significant minority of Republican representatives used the fake news label on Twitter. Ideology, measured through roll-call voting behavior (DW-NOMINATE), was the strongest indicator of likely adoption, with conservative representatives using the label at significantly higher rates than comparative moderates. Quantity of tweets sent was a further significant predictor of use, with active Twitter users more disposed to use the label on the platform. District partisanship (PVI) provided no explanatory value beyond ideology, suggesting limited ‘tactical’ use of the label for electoral gain. We discuss potential reasons for these findings and consider consequences for various actors, including Trump. We respond to a call in the literature for more empirical data concerning the use of the fake news label by actors other than President Trump by assessing the extent to which House Republicans have adopted this behavior.
Diaphragmatic endometriosis and thoracic endometriosis syndrome: a review on diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Soares Thiers , Oliveira Marco Aurelio , Panisset Karen , Habib Nassir , Rahman Sara , Klebanoff Jordan S. , Moawad Gaby N.
Published: February 2021

Endometriosis of the diaphragm has been gaining more attention in the practice of gynecologists and thoracic surgeons in recent years. Understanding related symptoms and developing imaging methods have improved their approach. A review of the literature was performed with the aim to report on incidence, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of diaphragmatic endometriosis. We also cover the issue of the Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome (TES). Complaints of cyclic chest pain in patients of childbearing age should have as differential diagnosis the presence of thoracic endometriosis. Catamenial pneumothorax is the main manifestation of diaphragmatic endometriosis and Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome. Other possible manifestations are hemothorax, pulmonary nodules, and diaphragmatic hernia. Despite the possibility of drug treatment, many patients will be submitted to surgical treatment. The minimally invasive approach should be the one of choice. The robotic pathway allows for an easier approach due to its ability to articulate robotic arms, allowing the treatment of lesions in hard-to-reach locations, such as the posterior part of the diaphragm. Multidisciplinary treatment should be used in most cases, as only abdominal approach is not sufficient for the diagnosis and treatment of lesions in the thoracic cavity. The approach of endometriosis of the diaphragm and Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome should be multidisciplinary, allowing the improvement of quality of life in most patients.
Appropriate surgical management of ovarian endometrioma: excision or drainage?
Authors: Klebanoff Jordan S. , Inaty Dana , Rahman Sara , Habib Nassir , Bendifallah Sofiane , Ayoubi Jean Marc , Moawad Gaby N.
Published: February 2021

Endometriosis negatively impacts the lives of countless women around the world. When medical management fails to improve quality of life often women are left making a decision whether or not to proceed with surgery. With endometriomas, patient’s surgical options include complete surgical removal or drainage via laparoscopy. Here, we review the literature to discuss both techniques, excision and drainage of endometriomas, and what the research supports for endometrioma management.
COVID-19: a review on SARS-CoV-2 origin, epidemiology, virology, clinical manifestations and complications with special emphasis on adverse outcome in Bhopal Gas Tragedy survivor
Authors: Malviya Anushree , Ahirwar Ashok Kumar , Chandra Tripathi Satyendra , Asia Priyanka , Gopal Niranjan , Kaim Kirti
Published: February 2021

After the global outbreak of coronaviruses caused diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), an outbreak due to these viruses occurred in December, 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China and led to a worldwide spread. Coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) has emerged as a serious global health emergency and spread from a person to another who has the virus. But the scope of an intermediate host is not known. Population at higher risk includes individuals in higher age group (>60 years) or with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and weaker immune system. Many unknown and underestimate risk factors could be responsible for adverse outcomes in COVID-19. These risk factors should be appropriately identified, addressed and necessary actions should be taken to mitigate the effect of COVID-19 pandemic. Bhopal gas tragedy was one of the world’s worst industrial chemical leak disaster. The survivors of this incident still suffer from the various complications such as increased rate of cancers, chronic illness like tuberculosis, respiratory diseases, birth defects, nerve injury, growth retardations, gynecological illness and many more. The survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy are at higher risk of developing COVID-19 related adverse outcome. One of the possible explanations can be long term effect of methyl isocyanate (MIC). MIC exposure can lead to possible toxic effect on genetic, epigenetic and non-genetic factors. In this review, we aim to establish the scientific basis for adverse outcome in COVID-19 patients who are also victims of Bhopal gas tragedy.
Probability box theory-based uncertain power flow calculation for power system with wind power
Authors: Ding Jiaman , Chen Zhixin , Du Yi
Published: February 2021

The uncertainty of wind speed may lead to the deviation and change of wind power output, which influences the stability of wind farm. Therefore, in this paper, a probability box (p-box) based uncertain power flow model for wind power is proposed, which initially introduces p-box to power flow calculation. A probabilistic interval power flow model with both probability and interval is established. Firstly, the drift interval of wind speed is obtained and its p-box model is established by analyzing the distribution of wind speed. Secondly, the wind power output p-box is derived from the wind speed p-box based on the relationship between wind power output and wind speed, then the p-box of wind power output is discretized and introduced into the power flow equation to obtain the power flow p-box model. Finally, Newton–Raphson method is used to solve the power flow p-box model. Experiments on data collected from a wind farm (running standard IEEE30-bus test system) in Inner Mongolia demonstrate that our method is more effective and accurate than the traditional Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) and classical interval power flow (IPF) method.
Locational marginal price computation in radial distribution system using Self Adaptive Levy Flight based JAYA Algorithm and game theory
Authors: Veeramsetty Venkataramana , Chintham Venkaiah , D.M. Vinod Kumar
Published: February 2021

This study presents a computational approach to compute locational marginal price (LMP) at distributed generation (DG) buses in an electric power distribution system using self-adaptive levy flight based JAYA algorithm and proportional nucleolus theory (PNT). This method provides financial incentive to DG owners based on their contribution in reliability improvement, loss and emission reduction. In this study expected energy not supplied (EENS) is used for measuring the reliability of a given radial distribution network. This method is implemented on 38 bus distribution system under MATLAB environment to compute LMP values at each DG as per its contribution towards reliability improvement, loss reduction and emission reduction. It is found from the study that reliability has been improved, losses and emissions of system were reduced by providing proper financial incentives to DG owners. The proposed method can be utilized by a distribution company (DISCO) to operate network optimally and to estimate state of network.
Simulation modeling of free space optical communication system
Authors: Sharma Ajay , Kaler Rajinder Singh
Published: February 2021

The optical wireless communication has been designed by developing a model with the support of MATLAB simulator using Simulink where channel considered to be a free space. In this model, Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN) channel has used to analyze bit error rate (BER) and power loss of optical wireless signal at receiver. The consequence due to turbulence in atmosphere of free space on transmitted signal has examined. The BER and signal power have extremely ruined on rigorous atmospheric unstable condition even for a short distance in an optical wireless channel. The BER of less than 10−3 has been achieved for free space optical communication considered to be an excellent BER for FSO.
Theoretical investigation of multiple input–multiple output (MIMO) technique for line of sight (LoS) underwater wireless optical communications system
Authors: AL-Deen Mustafa B. , Ali Mazin Ali A. , Saleh Zeyad A.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, a theoretical investigation was suggested to study underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) system based on multiple input–multiple output (MIMO) technique. The modulation schemes such as RZ-OOK, NRZ-OOK, 32-PPM and 4-QAM applied under different coastal water types. MIMO technique enabled the system to transmit data rate with longer distance link. The performance of the proposed system examined by BER and data rate as a metrics. Several impairments such as the types of water by the attenuation of coastal water and the distance link were taken into account for the transmission of the optical signal to appreciate the reliability of the MIMO technique. The theoretical analysis shows the proposed of MIMO (4Tx/4Rx) technique get the better performance compared with the other techniques in terms of BER. When 32-PPM is applied as a modulation scheme. For the system with MIMO technique the maximum distance link arrive to 14.9 and 2.9 m for coastal water types JIC and J9C, respectively. While SISO (1Tx/1Rx) technique achieved the maximum distance link are 10 and 2.3 m for coastal water types JIC and J9C, respectively. Therefore, 32-PPM can outperform the other modulation schemes and consider the suitable option for obtaining a low BER with the best maximum distance link for LoS of MIMO technique.
REVIEW. Translating Transition: A Critical Review of the Diabetes Literature
Authors: Daneman Denis , Nakhla Meranda , Frank Marcia , Guttmann Astrid
Published: February 2021

Effective transition to an adult diabetes care provider is a significant component of care in adolescents with diabetes mellitus. During this period adolescents are at risk of dropping out of medical follow-up, an action which may interfere with their future physical and psychological well-being. The purpose of this paper is to review the diabetes literature as it pertains to transition including the outcomes, methods and patients' perceptions of the transition period. The results of the studies examined demonstrate a decrease in diabetes care visits following transition and that improvement in clinic attendance may be achieved through: (1) implementing an educational transition program; (2) having a transition care coordinator; and (3) having a young adult transition clinic attended by both adult and pediatric physicians. Despite the recognized importance of successful transition for adolescents with diabetes, studies on the subject remain sparse, highlighting the need for further research to determine both the magnitude of the problem as well as the impact of interventions to improve the processes of transition.
Molecular Analysis of the AR and SRD5A2 Genes in Patients with 46,XY Disorders of Sex Development
Authors: Choi Jin-Ho , Kim Gu-Hwan , Seo Eul-Ju , Kim Kun-Suk , Kim Sung Hoon , Yoo Han-Wook
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and endocrinological features, and to analyze AR and SRD5A2 genes in patients with 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD). This study included 20 patients from 19 families showing clinical features of 46,XY DSD. Molecular analysis was performed of the AR and SRD5A2 genes, as well as endocrinological evaluations, such as 17a-hydroxyprogesterone, plasma renin activity, aldosterone, adrenocorticotropic hormone and hCG stimulation test. Out of 20 patients with 46,XY DSD, only one (5%) displayed androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS), and four (20%) were Sa-reductase deficient by mutation analysis. The patient with AIS revealed significant elevation of serum testosterone following hCG stimulation. The patient with Sa-reductase deficiency with a homozygous p.R246Q mutation had a low basal dihydrotestosterone level. The patient with p.Q6X/p.R246Q mutations showed a moderately elevated testosterone/ dihydrotestosterone ratio following hCG stimulation. Endocrinological tests are not reliable for the etiological diagnosis of AIS and Sa-reductase deficiency due to variable reference ranges of hormonal profiles according to the age and the severity of the enzyme defect. DNA analysis may be employed as a tool for the early and precise diagnosis of patients with 46,XY DSD, and genetic counseling can be used for families at risk.
Glycogen Storage Disease Type Ilia Presenting as Non-Ketotic Hypoglycemia: Use of a Newly Approved Commercially Available Mutation Analysis to Non-Invasively Confirm the Diagnosis
Authors: Seigel Jonathan , Weinstein David A. , Hillman Richard , Colbert Brooke , Matthews Belinda , Bachrach Bert
Published: February 2021

Glycogen storage disease type III (GSD-111) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by the lack of amylo-1,6-glucosidase (AGL), one of the catalytic domains of the glycogen debranching enzyme. Deficiency of this enzyme classically results in hepatomegaly and ketotic hypoglycemia. The diagnosis of the disorder was previously confirmed with a liver biopsy demonstrating abnormal liver glycogen content and absent enzyme activity. We describe an 11 month-old African-American Jehovah's Witness male with non-ketotic hypoglycemia (NKH), hepatomegaly, cardiomyopathy, and a flat glucagon response confirmed to have GSD-IIIa by mutation analysis of the A GL gene. The present case represents an unusual presentation (NKH) of GSD-IIIa and emphasizes the utility of the newly approved commercially available Clinical Laboratory Improvement Advisory Committee (CLIA) mutation analysis test.
Maturation of the cardiac autonomic regulation system, as function of gestational age in a cohort of low risk preterm infants born between 28 and 32 weeks of gestation
Authors: Hadas Israeli-Mendlovic , Joseph Mendlovic , Luba Zuk , Michal Katz-Leurer
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The maturation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) occurs steadily throughout gestation while the myelinated vagus has accelerated maturation periods, between 25 and 32 weeks of gestation and a further increase around 37–38 weeks of gestation. The aim was to quantify the cardiac autonomic regulation maturation, as a function of gestational age (GA) in a cohort of low risk preterm infants born between 28 and 32 weeks of gestation by assessing heart rate variability (HRV) at week 32, and at week 35 postmenstrual age (PMA).

Methods

Forty preterm infants were recruited, 24 h recordings of breathing rate and RR intervals were obtained at week 32 and week 35 PMA.

Results

A significant difference was noted between preterm infants born before 32 weeks GA and preterm infants born at week 32; the latter present higher HRV values throughout the follow-up period. No significant change over time was noted for the parasympathetic HRV measures while a significant increase was found in the sympathetic system. Moreover, a significant interaction effect of time and system was found, the increase in values of the sympathetic system over time was significantly larger than the change noted in the vagal HRV measures.

Conclusions

Given the beneficial influence of vagal tone on health and developmental outcomes in preterm infants, the findings of the current study highlight the need for further studies on the impact of specifics gestational age on vagal development and later assessing interventions associate with its continue development and maturation at these specific periods.
Antenatal care and perinatal outcomes of asylum seeking women and their infants
Authors: Sturrock Sarah , Williams Emma , Dassios Theodore , Greenough Anne
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Asylum seekers have been highlighted as a particularly vulnerable group of expectant mothers due to complex medical and psychosocial needs, as well as the difficulties they may face in accessing care. Our aim was to examine if there were differences in the antenatal care and perinatal outcomes for asylum seeking women when compared to age- and ethnicity-matched controls delivering at the same hospital.

Methods

Two age- and ethnicity-matched non-asylum seeking controls were identified for each asylum-seeking woman. Electronic patient records were analysed to determine the amount of antenatal care received and neonatal outcomes.

Results

Thirty-four asylum-seeking women were identified who had term born infants. The median number of antenatal care episodes at the delivering hospital was significantly fewer amongst asylum-seeking women compared to controls (three vs. nine, p<0.0001). The median number of antenatal ultrasound examinations at the delivering hospital amongst asylum-seeking women was one (IQR 1–2), compared to three (IQR 3–4) in the controls (p<0.0001). The postnatal length of stay was significantly longer for infants of asylum-seeking women (median three vs. two days, p=0.002). Thirty-seven percent of asylum seeking women but none of the controls required assistance from social services. There was a significant correlation between antenatal and postnatal costs for asylum seeking women (r=0.373, p=0.042), but not for controls (r=0.171, p=0.181).

Conclusions

The increased postnatal length of stay in the infants of asylum seeking mothers may reflect their mother’s reduced antenatal care and hence insufficient discharge planning for mothers and infants with increased social needs.
Diurnal variation of leukocyte counts affects the indirect estimation of reference intervals
Authors: Torge Antje , Haeckel Rainer , Özcürümez Mustafa , Krebs Alexander , Junker Ralf
Published: February 2021

It has been observed that the estimation of reference intervals of leukocytes in whole venous blood leads to higher upper reference limits (uRLs) with indirect methods than has been reported in the literature determined by direct approaches. This phenomenon was reinvestigated with a newer, more advanced indirect method, and could be confirmed. Furthermore, a diurnal variation was observed with lower values during the morning and higher values in the late afternoon and at night. This observation can explain why indirect approaches using samples collected during 24 h lead to higher uRLs than direct methods applied on samples collected presumably in the morning.
Membranous nephropathy with pulmonary cryptococcosis with improved 1-year follow-up results: A case report
Authors: Zhang Peipei , Wang Chundan , Zhang Jiudan , Zhong Wenjing , Xia Hong
Published: February 2021

Cryptococcosis is frequently found in immunosuppressed patients. It is also a significant opportunistic infection in non-immunocompromised individuals. In this study, we present a rare case of membranous nephropathy (MN) with pulmonary cryptococcosis. A 33-year-old man with MN was referred to our hospital because of dyspnea and weakness for 1 week. Before the above symptoms occurred, the dose of Cyclosporin A was increased again for relapse of MN. Multiple massive or patchy high-density shadows were present on computed tomography of the lung. Initially the patient underwent empirical anti-bacterial therapy, which turned out to be ineffective. As the results of serum cryptococcal latex agglutination tests were positive, the administration of anti-fungal drugs was prescribed. The results of fungal culture and pathologic examination of the lung tissue revealed the findings consistent with Cryptococcus neoformans. The patient was successfully treated with voriconazole followed by fluconazole with satisfactory result. Therefore, in patients with chronic kidney disease, lung lesions with poor bactericidal effects of cephalosporins need further examination to make sure whether there is pulmonary cryptococcosis. Early diagnosis and treatment might contribute to good results. It is a problem worthy of consideration that whether immunosuppressive agents need to be discontinued or not during antifungal therapy.
Ideal pH for the adsorption of metal ions Cr6+, Ni2+, Pb2+ in aqueous solution with different adsorbent materials
Authors: Cruz-Lopes Luísa P. , Macena Morgana , Esteves Bruno , Guiné Raquel P. F.
Published: February 2021

Industrialization increases the number of heavy metals released into the environment. Lead (Pb2+), nickel (Ni2+) and chromium (Cr6+) are among these toxic metals and cause irreversible effects on ecosystems and human health due to their bio-accumulative potential. The decontamination through adsorption processes using lignocellulosic wastes from agricultural and/or forestry processes is a viable solution. Hence, this work aimed at studying the effect of pH on the biosorption of the metal ions using four different by-product materials: walnut shell, chestnut shell, pinewood and burnt pinewood. These experiments were conducted with solutions of the three heavy metals in which the adsorbents were immersed to measure the rate of adsorption. A range of pH values from 3.0 to 7.5 was used in the experiments, and the concentrations were determined by atomic absorption. The results showed different behaviour of the biosorbent materials when applied to the different metals. The lead adsorption had an ideal pH in the range of 5.5–7.5 when the walnut shell was used as an adsorbent, corresponding to values of adsorption greater than 90%, but for the other materials, maximum adsorption occurred for a pH of 7.5. For the adsorption of chromium, the pH was very heterogeneous with all adsorbents, with optimal values of pH varying from 3.0 (for chestnut shell) to 6.5 (for walnut shell and wood). For nickel, the best pH range was around pH 5, with different values according to the lignocellulosic material used. These results indicate that the tested biosorbents have the potential to decontaminate wastewater in variable extensions and that by controlling the pH of the solution; a more efficient removal of the heavy metals can be achieved.