bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Selection Method of Product Conceptual Scheme Based On Bond Graph
Authors: Jiang Shaofei , Xu Qingqing , Li Jiquan , Wang Jianxiang , Jing Liting , Sun Tao , Peng Xiang
Published: May 2020

The optimum conceptual scheme is mostly selected based on qualitative decision-making evaluation methods in conceptual design stage of engineering product, which lacks quantitative verification and evaluation. To solve this problem, quantitative selection method of product conceptual scheme based on bond graph is proposed. Through analyzing the correlation between function, effect and bond element, the bond graph model and corresponding AMESim simulation model of conceptual scheme are constructed to verify the feasibility of conceptual scheme, and the quantitative evaluation index of function-performance requirements is calculated. A conceptual scheme selection method considering quantitative evaluation index and qualitative evaluation by experts is proposed to obtain the optimum scheme. The conceptual scheme selection of transmission system of a shearer cutting unit is taken as an example to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Risk factors for atopic diseases and recurrent respiratory tract infections in children
Authors: Kansen Hannah Maria , Lebbink Melanie A. , Mul Joeri , Erp Francine C. van , Engelen Martine van , de Vries Esther , Prevaes Sabine M.P.J. , Le Thuy-My M. , Ent Cornelis K. van der , Verhagen Lilly M.
Published: May 2020

Background The simultaneous increased prevalence of atopic diseases and decreased prevalence of infectious diseases might point to a link between the two entities. Past work mainly focused on either atopic diseases or recurrent infections. We aim to investigate whether risk factors for atopic diseases (i.e. asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and/or food allergy) differ from risk factors for recurrent respiratory tract infections (RRTIs) in children. Methods Cross-sectional data were used from 5516 children aged 1-18 years who participated in an Electronic Portal for children between 2011 and 2019. Univariable/multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine risk factors for any atopic disease and RRTIs. Results Children aged ≥5 years were more likely to have any atopic disease (adjusted Odds Ratio, OR, 1.49-2.80) and less likely to have RRTIs (OR 0.77-0.82) compared to children aged <5 years. Female sex (OR 0.72; 95% CI 0.64-0.82), low birth weight (OR 0.74; 95% CI 0.56-0.98) and dog ownership (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.66-0.95) reduced the odds of any atopic disease, but not of RRTIs. Day care attendance (OR 1.31; 95% CI 1.09-1.58) was associated with RRTIs, but not with atopic diseases. A family history of asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and RRTIs was significantly associated with the same entity in children, with OR varying from 1.58 (95% CI 1.36-1.84) in allergic rhinitis to 2.19 (95% CI 1.85-2.60) in asthma. Conclusions Risk factors for atopic diseases are distinct from risk factors for RRTIs, suggesting that the changing prevalence of both entities is not related to shared risk factors.
Clinical differences between eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD), a multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Dai Guangming , Ran Yajuan , Wang Jiajia , Chen Xingru , Peng Junnan , Li Xinglong , Deng Huojin , Xiao Min , Zhu Tao
Published: May 2020

Background AECOPD is highly heterogeneous with respect to etiology and inflammation. COPD with higher blood eosinophils is associated with increased readmission rates and better corticosteroid response. However, the clinical features of eosinophilic AECOPD aren’t well explored. Then, the aim of this study was to investigate the clinical differences between eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic AECOPD. Methods A total of 643 AECOPD patients were enrolled in this multicenter cross-sectional study. Finally, 455 were included, 214 in normal eosinophils AECOPD (NEOS-AECOPD) group, 63 in mild increased eosinophils AECOPD (MEOS-AECOPD) group, and 138 in severe increased eosinophils AECOPD (SEOS-AECOPD) group. Then, demographic data, underlying diseases, symptoms, and laboratory findings were collected. Multiple logistic regression was performed to identify the independent factors associated with blood EOS. Correlations between blood EOS and its associated independent factors were evaluated. Results The significant differences in 19 factors, including underlying disease, clinical symptom, and laboratory parameters, were identified by univariate analysis. Subsequently, multiple logistic regression revealed that lymphocytes%, neutrophils% (NS%), procalcitonin (PCT), and anion gap (AG) were associated with blood EOS in AECOPD. Both blood EOS counts and EOS% significantly correlated with lymphocytes%, NS%, PCT, and AG. Conclusions The blood EOS was independently associated with lymphocytes%, NS%, PCT, and AG in AECOPD patients. Lymphocytes% was lower, and, NS%, PCT, and AG were higher in eosinophilic AECOPD. Our results indicate that viral dominant infections probably were the major etiology of eosinophilic AECOPD. Non-eosinophilic AECOPD was more likely associated with bacterial dominant infections. The systemic inflammation in non-eosinophilic AECOPD was more severe.
A comparison of standard occupational therapy versus early enhanced occupation-based therapy in a medical / surgical intensive care unit: study protocol for a single site feasibility trial (EFFORT-ICU).
Authors: Rapolthy-Beck Andrea , Fleming Jennifer , Turpin Merrill , Sosnowski Kellie , Dullaway Simone , White Hayden
Published: May 2020

Background: Admissions to intensive care units (ICUs) are increasing due to an aging population, and rising incidence of cardiac and respiratory disease. With advances in medical care, more patients are surviving an initial stay in critical care; however, they can experience ongoing health and cognitive limitations, that may influence return to baseline function up to a year post-admission. Recent research has focused on the introduction of early rehabilitation within the ICU to reduce long-term physical and cognitive complications. The aim of this study is to explore the feasibility and impact of providing early occupational therapy intervention, including cognitive stimulation and activities of daily living, to patients in intensive care.Methods: This study involves a single site randomised-controlled feasibility trial comparing standard occupational therapy care to an enhanced occupation-based therapy. Thirty mechanically ventilated ICU patients will be recruited and randomly allocated to the intervention or control group. The primary outcome measure is the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and secondary measures include the Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), grip strength, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Short-Form 36 Health survey (SF-36). Measures will be collected by a blind assessor at discharge from intensive care, hospital discharge and a 90-day follow-up. Daily outcome measures including the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Richmond Agitation and Sedation Scale (RASS) and Confusion Assessment Measure for intensive care units (CAM-ICU) will be taken prior to treatment. Participants in the intervention group will receive daily 60 minute sessions with an occupational therapist involving cognitive and functional activities such as self-care and grooming. At the follow-up, intervention group participants will be interviewed to gain user perspectives of the intervention. Feasibility data including recruitment and retention rates will be summarised descriptively. Parametric tests will compare outcomes between groups. Interview data will be thematically analysed.Discussion: This trial will provide information about the feasibility of investigating how occupational therapy interventions in ICU influence longer term outcomes. It aims to inform the design of a phase III multicentre trial of occupational therapy in critical care general medical intensive care units.Trial registration: Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12618000374268; prospectively registered on 13th March 2018 / https://www.anzctr.org.au
PD-L1 associated with the expression of cancer cell-intrinsic PD-1 and p-S6 proteins and predicted a good prognosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Zheng Hongmei , Zhan Yuting , Yang Yang , Ning Yue , Wang Haihua , Wang Weiyuan , Fan Songqing
Published: May 2020

Aims

programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is the ligand of programmed death 1 (PD-1) which is a host immunity inhibitory receptor. PD-L1 expressed in tumor cells has being widely discussed, while there is little research about tumor intrinsic-PD-1. P-S6 is an important downstream effector of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. This study aimed to investigate the expression of PD-L1 protein and its relationship with cancer cell-intrinsic PD-1 protein and p-S6 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).
Methods

the expression of PD-L1, PD-1 and p-S6 proteins in tissues of NPC, non-cancerous nasopharyngeal epithelia, primary lesions and matching metastases was detected by immunohistochemistry.
Results

PD-L1, PD-1 and p-S6 expression and co-expression of PD-L1 and PD-1 proteins were significantly higher in NPC than those of in the non-cancerous nasopharyngeal epithelia, respectively (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, there was evidently elevated expression of PD-1 and co-expression of PD-L1 and PD-1 in matched metastasis of NPC compared to their primary lesions (all P < 0.01). Overall survival rate for NPC patients with positive expression of PD-L1 (P = 0.035) was significantly higher than others. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis identified that positive expression of PD-L1 (P = 0.002) and p-S6 (P = 0.003) were independent prognostic factors for NPC patients.
Conclusions

positive expression of PD-L1 associated with expression of cancer cell-intrinsic PD-1 and p-S6, PD-L1 might be a good prognostic biomarker and p-S6 could serve as a valuable independent poor prognostic biomarker for NPC patients.
Cardiotoxicity Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-derived Healthy and Long QT Syndrome Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Zhang Yizhe , Wang Meiting , Zhao Qi , Xing Hongyan , Yang Xin , Wang Xijie
Published: May 2020

Background

Cardiotoxicity associated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has been reported in several clinical trials and preclinical studies, whereas the toxicity in populations with congenital electrophysiological dysfunction remains unclarified.
Methods

We studied cardiotoxicities of four US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved TKIs with different targets by measuring changes in cardiomyocyte (CM) contractility. Contractions of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived (hiPSC)-CMs from healthy donors and long QT syndrome (LQT) patients were studied with an impedance-based bioanalytical method (xCELLigence® real-time cell analysis [RTCA] cardio system) to quantify TKI toxicity.
Results

Both healthy donor (wild type, WT)- and LQT patient-derived hiPSC-CMs exhibited a functional CM phenotype. The four TKIs inhibited the growth and contractility of CMs with different potencies. Crizotinib and dasatinib decreased the beating of both WT- and LQT-hiPSC-CMs with approximately equal potencies. Sunitinib weakened spontaneous pulsations of both kinds of cells, but the LQT-hiPSC-CMs showed higher sensitivity. In contrast, lapatinib exerted a milder effect on LQT- hiPSC-CMs.
Conclusions

Crizotinib, sunitinib, and lapatinib have a higher risk of inducing adverse cardiac events than dasatinib, and LQT1 patients should be particularly cautious with sunitinib. HiPSC-CMs derived from both healthy and patient-specific donors could improve precision medicine and preclinical cardiotoxicity evaluations.
Comparative Chloroplast Genomics of C3, Kranz type C4 and Single Cell C4 photosynthetic members of Chenopodiaceae
Authors: Sharpe Richard , Williamson-Benavides Bruce Andreas , Edwards Gerry , Dhingra Amit
Published: May 2020

Background Chloroplast genome information is critical to understanding taxonomic relationships in the plant kingdom. During the evolutionary process, plants have developed different photosynthetic strategies that are accompanied by complementary biochemical and anatomical features. Members of family Chenopodiaceae have species with C3 photosynthesis and variations of C4 photosynthesis in which photorespiration is reduced by concentrating CO2 around Rubisco through dual coordinated functioning of dimorphic chloroplasts. Among dicots, the family has a large number of C4 species, and greatest structural and biochemical diversity in forms of C4 including the canonical dual-cell Kranz anatomy, and the recently identified single-cell C4 with the presence of dimorphic chloroplasts separated by a vacuole. This is the first comparative analysis of chloroplast genomes in species representative of photosynthetic types in the family. Results High quality and complete chloroplast genomes of eight species representing C3, Kranz type C4, and single-cell C4 (SSC4) photosynthesis were obtained using high throughput sequencing complemented with Sanger sequencing of selected loci. Six of the eight chloroplast genome sequences are new, while two represent corrected versions of previously published chloroplast genomes. Comparative genomic analysis with previously sequenced plastid genomes revealed a similar genome organization, gene order, and content with a few revisions. High-quality complete chloroplast genome sequences resulted in correcting the orientation of the LSC region of the published Bienertia sinuspersici chloroplast genome, identification of stop codons in the rpl23 gene in B. sinuspersici and B. cycloptera, and identifying an instance of IR expansion in the Haloxylon ammodendron inverted repeat sequence. The rare observation of a mitochondria-to-chloroplast inter-organellar gene transfer event was identified in family Chenopodiaceae. Conclusions This study reports complete chloroplast genomes from seven Chenopodiaceae and one Amaranthaceae species. The depth of coverage obtained using high-throughput sequencing complemented with targeted resequencing of certain loci enabled superior resolution of the border junctions, directionality, and repeat region sequences. Therefore, the use of high throughput and Sanger sequencing, in a hybrid method, reaffirms to be rapid, efficient, and reliable for chloroplast genome sequencing.
Antibacterial mechanism of rhodomyrtone involves the disruption of nucleoid segregation checkpoint in Streptococcus suis
Authors: Traithan Apichaya , Tongtawe Pongsri , Thanongsaksrikul Jeeraphong , Voravuthikunchai Supayang , Sriman Potjanee
Published: May 2020

Rhodomyrtone has been recently demonstrated to possess a novel antibiotic mechanism of action against Gram-positive bacteria which involves multiple targets, resulting in the interference of several bacterial biological processes including cell division. The present study aims to closely look at the downstream effect of rhodomyrtone treatment on nucleoid segregation in Streptococcus suis, an important zoonotic pathogen. Minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values of rhodomyrtone against recombinant S. suis ParB-GFP, a nucleoid segregation reporter strain, were 0.5 and 1 µg/ml, respectively, equivalent to the potency of vancomycin. Using fluorescence live-cell imaging, we demonstrated that rhodomyrtone at 2 × MIC caused incomplete nucleoid segregation and septum misplacement, leading to the generation of anucleated cells. FtsZ immune-staining of rhodomyrtone-treated S. suis for 30 min revealed that although large amount of FtsZ was trapped in the region of high fluidity membrane, it appeared to be able to polymerize to form a complete Z-ring. However, the Z-ring was shifted away from midcell. Transmission electron micrograph further confirmed disruption of nucleoid segregation and septum misplacement at 120 min following rhodomyrtone treatment. Asymmetric septum formation resulted in either generation of minicells without nucleoid, septum formed over incomplete segregated nucleoid (guillotine effect), or formation of multi-constriction of Z-ring within a single cell. This finding spotlights on antibacterial mechanism of rhodomyrtone involves the early stage in bacterial cell division process.
Arabidopsis sculpt distinct root-associated microbiomes through the synthesis of secondary metabolites and defense signaling molecules
Authors: Kudjordjie Enoch Narh , Sapkota Rumakanta , Nicolaisen Mogens
Published: May 2020

Background

Plant mutants with alterations in specific biosynthetic or signaling pathways exhibit distinct biochemical or physiological traits and are, thus, suitable models for studying links between the plant and its associated microbiota. Here, we examined microbial community structures of a range of Arabidopsis thaliana mutants disrupted in metabolic pathways for the production of glucosinolates, flavonoids, or a number of defense signaling molecules. Arabidopsis mutants and their background wild types (controls) were grown in natural soil and maintained in a greenhouse for 4 weeks before collection of roots for microbiome analysis. We characterized bacterial and fungal communities using 16S rRNA and fungal ITS amplicon sequencing, respectively.
Results

Our results showed that the Arabidopsis mutants had distinct microbial profiles compared to control plants. The relative abundances of the bacterial classes Actinobacteria, Thermoleophilia and Verrucomicrobiae, and the fungal classes Eurotiomycetes and Sordariomycetes were the most affected when comparing mutants and their wild types. At the genus level, the bacterial taxa Azospirillum, Fluviicola, and Flavobacterium were significantly enriched in most glucosinolate, flavonoid and signaling mutants while the fungal taxa Sporobolomyces and Emericellopsis were enriched in several glucosinolate and defense signaling mutants.
Conclusion

By using different Arabidopsis mutants and their background controls, we showed that plant secondary metabolism and defense signaling molecules affect bacterial and fungal community structures. We conclude that disruption of pathways for secondary metabolite production or disruption of defense signaling pathways affected the innate mechanisms that modulate plant root-associated microbiome assembly.
Experimental Evidence of Microbial Inheritance in Plants and Transmission Routes from Seed to Phyllosphere and Root
Authors: Abdelfattah Ahmed , Wisniewski Michael , Schena Leonardo , Tack Ayco J.M.
Published: May 2020

Background While the environment is considered the primary origin for establishing the microbiome of newly developing plants, the potential role of seeds as a source of transmitting microorganisms has not received much attention. Here we tested the hypothesis that the plant microbiome is at least partially inherited through vertical transmission. We investigated where microbes reside within a seed, and how microbes are subsequently transmitted from the seed to seedling’s belowground and aboveground plant tissues. To this aim, an experimental culturing device was constructed to grow oak seedlings in a microbe-free environment while keeping the belowground and aboveground tissues separated.Results Amplicon sequencing of fungal ITS2 and bacterial 16S rDNA revealed that the seed microbiome is diverse and non-randomly distributed within an acorn. The large majority (> 95%) of fungi and bacteria present in the acorn were transmitted to the seedling. The microbial composition of the phyllosphere strongly resembled the composition found in the embryo, whereas the roots and pericarp each had a distinct microbial community. Similar relationships were observed for both fungi and bacteria.Conclusion Our findings demonstrate a high level of microbial diversity and spatial partitioning of the fungal and bacterial community within both seed and seedling, indicating inheritance, niche differentiation, and divergent transmission routes for the establishment of root and phyllosphere communities in oak seedlings. The study provides new information on the importance of the maternal environment as a source of the seedling microbiome, with significant implications for our understanding of the continuity of the plant microbiome across generations.
Cost-Related Medication Nonadherence in Canada: A Systematic Review of Prevalence, Predictors, and Clinical Impact
Authors: Holbrook Anne Marie , Wang Mei , Lee Munil , Chen Zhiyuan , Garcia Michael , Nguyen Laura , Ford Angela , Manji Selina , Law Michael R
Published: May 2020

Background Cost-related nonadherence to medications (CRNA) is common in many countries and thought to be associated with adverse outcomes. The characteristics of CRNA in Canada, with its patchwork coverage of increasingly expensive medications, is unclear. Objectives Our objective in this systematic review was to summarize the literature evaluating CRNA in Canada in three domains: prevalence, predictors, and effect on clinical outcomes. Methods We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library from 1992 to December 2019 using search terms covering medication adherence, costs, and Canada. Eligible studies, without restriction on design, had to have original data on at least one of the three domains specifically for Canadian participants. Articles were identified and reviewed in duplicate. Risk of bias was assessed using design-specific tools. Results: Twenty-six studies of varying quality (n=483,065 Canadians) were eligible for inclusion. Sixteen studies reported on the overall prevalence of CRNA, with population-based estimates ranging from 5.1% to 10.2%. Factors predicting CRNA included high out of pocket spending, low income or financial flexibility, lack of drug insurance, younger age, and poorer health. A single randomized trial of free essential medications with free delivery in Ontario improved adherence but did not find any change in clinical outcomes at one year. Conclusion: CRNA affects many Canadians. The estimated percentage depends on the sampling frame, the main predictors tend to be financial, and its association with clinical outcomes in Canada remains unproven.
The substitution of T271A in PB2 protein could enhance the infectivity and pathogenicity of Eurasian avian-like H1N1 swine influenza viruses in mice
Authors: Feng Zhaomin , Zhu Wenfei , Zhou Lijuan , Chen Yongkun , Li Xiyan , Gao Rongbao , Liu Jia , Wang Dayan , Shu Yuelong
Published: May 2020

BackgroundCurrently, Eurasian avian-like H1N1 (EA H1N1) swine influenza viruses (SIVs) are widely prevalent in pigs in China, with sporadic human cases reported as well. As one of the key molecular makers detected in avian H5N1 and H 7N9 viruses and pandemic H1N1 2009 virus, contributions of T271A in PB2 protein to the EA H1N1 viruses are still unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of residue 271 in PB2 protein on the viral properties of EA H1N1 viruses.MethodsInfectivity, replication, virulence and pathogenicity of the recombinant viruses containing A or T in position 271 in PB2 protein were studied in cells and mice.ResultsThe results showed that the substitution PB2-T271A increased the viral replication in mammalian and avian cell lines. In addition, the mutation enhanced the viral infectivity, virulence and pathogenicity in mice. The viral titers of lung tissue in the rgHuN271A virus were higher than that of the rgHuN271T at 1, 4, and 7 dpi. The MID50 of the rgHuN271A and rgHuN271T virus were 101.1 TCID50 and 101.9 TCID50, respectively. Besides, the substitution of PB2-T271A enhanced the viral polymerase activity in mammalian cells.ConclusionsThe pathogenicity and replication of EA H1N1 virus containing 271A in PB2 protein were higher than the EA H1N1 virus containing 271T in PB2 protein in vivo and in vitro. Therefore, the PB2-T271A mutation should be continually monitored in influenza viruses circulating in pigs and humans.
Long-term outcomes of mitral valve replacement in patients weighing less than 10 kg
Authors: Yuan Haoyong , Wu Zhongshi , Lu Ting , Tang Yilun , Chen Jinlan , Yang Yifeng , Huang Can
Published: May 2020

Background: The techniques of mitral valve repair（MVP ) in children have been well established and provide acceptable long-term outcomes; certain pediatric patients require mitral valve replacement (MVR) after an unsuccessful MVP. The outcomes of MVR in pediatrict especially in the patients weighning are not always favorable. This study aimed to measure long-term outcomes of MVR at our institute.Methods: Nine young children weighing less than 10 kg underwent MVR from November 2006 to April 2019. Their mean age was 11.88 ± 11.29 months and mean body weight was 6.83 ± 2.56 kg at the time of initial MVR. Four patients (44.4%) had undergone at least one previous cardiac surgical procedure prior to MVR. Several surgical techniques were used to implant mechanical bileaflet prostheses.Results: All patients received bileaflet mechanical prostheses. The surgical technique varied among the patients with valves implanted intra-annularly (n = 5), supra-annularly (n=1), or supra-annularly with a tilt (n = 3). The valve size/weight ratio ranged from 2.11 to 5.00. After a mean follow-up period of 80.67 ± 63.37 months, the survival rate was 66.67%. One (11.1%) patient underwent an immediate revision MVR after initial MVR for the preprosthetic leak. No patients required surgical reintervention for the development of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction or permanent pacemaker placement during long-term follow-up.Conclusions: The tailored surgical strategy utilized for MVR in infants resulted in reliable valve function and excellent survival. Although revision is inevitable due to somatic growth, the bileaflet mechanical prostheses displayed appropriate durability.
Epidemiology and Mortality Predictors for Severe Childhood Pneumonia in ICUs: A Real-World Study in China
Authors: cao lu , ji zhaohua , zuo yan , wang jingwen
Published: May 2020

Background To identify the epidemiology and mortality predictors for severe childhood pneumonia and evaluate the influence of medications on clinical outcome in the real world.Methods We performed a retrospective observation study among children with severe pneumonia aged ≤ 5 years of age, separately comparing the detailed information between the in-hospital death cases and the survival cases in two different age groups. Multivariate regression model was used to figure out mortality predictors.Results 945 children were recruited, including 604 infants and 341 young children. Overall 88 deaths occurred (9.3%). There was low adherence to guidelines in antimicrobials and carbapenems were widely served as initial empiric regimens, but the efficacy was not superior to the guidelines recommended. In multivariate analyses, very severe pneumonia (OR: 3.55; 95% CI: 1.39–9.09), lower birth weight (OR: 3.92; 95% CI: 1.50-10.23), severe underweight (OR: 4.72; 95% CI: 1.92–11.62), mechanical ventilation (OR: 5.06; 95% CI: 1.97–12.95;OR: 14.43; 95% CI 3.31–62.96),comorbidity including anemia (OR: 5.61; 95% CI: 2.36–13.35), neonatal asphyxia (OR: 6.03; 95% CI: 1.57–23.12), gastrointestinal hemorrhage (OR: 3.73; 95% CI: 1.21–11.48) and sedative-hypnotics ( OR: 4.32; 95% CI: 1.76–10.61; OR: 4.13; 95% CI༚1.50-11.38) were independent risk factors for death, whereas a lower mortality was present in infants with probiotics (OR: 0.24; 95% CI: 0.10–0.54).Conclusions Severe pneumonia remains a primary cause of death in children under 5 years of age. Clinical characteristics, comorbidity and medications are evidently associated with death. Importantly, we should pay particular attention to the identification of the mortality predictors and establish prophylactic measures to reduce the mortality.
Association between the levels of perceived physical literacy and physical activity amongst undergraduates in Mainland China: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ma Ruisi , Sum Kim Wai Raymond , Huang Yan , Qiu Zi Cheng , Niu XueLiang
Published: May 2020

Background

This study examines the association between perceived physical literacy (PL) and physical activity (PA) levels amongst Chinese undergraduates through a cross-sectional study.
Methods

A total of 622 Chinese undergraduates aged between 18 and 21 years participated in the study. A simplified Chinese version of the Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument (PPLI-SC) and long form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SC) were used to measure the participants’ perceived PL and PA levels. Pearson’s Product–Moment Correlation and multiple linear regression were then used to examine the relationship between the perceived PL and PA levels.
Results

The correlation between perceived PL and PA levels was low but significant (r = 0.254, p < 0.01). Except for the sedentary domain, the correlation between the rest of the domains and intensities of PA and dimensions of PL are also the same (r = 0.089–0.336, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression equation was significant (F = 25.228, p < 0.01, R2 = 0.125). Metabolic equivalent (MET) values were used to predict the PA level of the participants, which were − 3818.582 + 272.535(Motivation) + 249.848 (Confidence and physical competence) + 149.899 (Interaction with the environment). Additionally, the correlation between perceived PL and PA levels showed no significant difference in terms of gender, body mass index (BMI) and socio-economic status (SES), but showed a significant difference in grade point average (GPA).
Conclusions

Perceived PL and PA levels were significantly related and associated with gender, BMI, GPA, and SES. Two factors that were unrelated to PL and PA were sedentary and higher GPA, indicating that the current system of education and examination has led to physical inactivity in Chinese undergraduates. The study highlights the importance of the association between PA and PL, and offers a path by which to explore the concept of PL and how it can affect the PA of Chinese undergraduates. Furthermore, on the basis of this study's findings, more research could develop practical interventions to help Chinese undergraduates enhance their PL and to take responsibility to engage in life-long PA.
Optimization Study and Evaluation of Small Photovoltaic Power Generation System based on Specific Geographical Location
Authors: Zhang Lian , Chen Zijian , Zhang Heng , Ma Zenghong
Published: May 2020

The authors have removed this preprint from Research Square.
Potential Reduction of Carbon Burden for Senak Seawater Desalination Plant in Malaysia
Authors: Latifah A.Ghani , Nazaran Ilyani Syazira , Ali Nora'aini , Hanafiah Marlia
Published: May 2020

PurposeCarbon footprint calculation is one of the approaches available in the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) system, which can be considered as a decision support tool for environmental sustainability management. Hence, this purpose of this study is to examine the potential contribution of the product, namely water through carbon footprint measurement. Seawater has been selected as the source for clean water transformation in Senak due to its ability to meet the growing demands of the local population and its ability to be recycled in the long term.MethodsIn this study, carbon footprint assessment was used to investigate seawater production systems from a desalination plant in Senok, Kelantan, Malaysia. Three stages of the desalination plant processing system have been investigated and the inventory database has been developed using the relevant model framework. The LCA method, in accordance with ISO14040-43 guidelines has been simplified with working unit selected is 1 per cubic meter of treated water produced from a salt water desalination source.Results and discussionOverall, the results of the study indicate that the Revolutionary Osmotic (RO) technology that has been used in the desalination plant in the study area is one of the best options to meet the demands of the environmental sustainability agenda (SDGs). This is due to a lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emission of about 3.5 × 10−2 kg of CO2 eq per m3/year that has been recorded for the entire operation of the system. The other pollutants involved the emission of NOx and Sox, which were considered to be insignificant. However, if the plant continues to operate completely on fossil fuel for the next 25 years, the emission is expected to affect the health of the community.ConclusionsSeveral factors that influence important errors in carbon footprint decisions such as the lack of EIA reporting data and the literature on carbon footprint in the Malaysian scenario. The total dependency of electrical source for SWRO process of fossil fuel is the most critical factor in the carbon footprint issue in this study. These findings can be used to develop a carbon footprint model that can commercialise carbon tax, carbon economy capital, energy security assurance, and standard carbon regulation and legislation in the context of local desalination projects.
COVID-19 in a Child with Primary Specific Antibody Deficiency
Authors: Ahanchian Hamid , Moazzen Nasrin , Faroughi Majid Sezavar Dokht , Khalighi Negar , Khoshkhui Maryam , Aelami Mohammad Hassan , Haghi Nasrin Sadat Motevalli , Rezaei Nima
Published: May 2020

Background. In the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, millions of people have been affected so far. Clinical manifestations and natural history of infections have a very wide range, which is important to know it in various underlying diseases. Although children are less affected than adults, its presentation especially in those with underlying diseases should not be neglected.Case presentation. Herein we report the first case of specific antibody deficiency, who was affected with COVID-19. The patient suffered from rhinorrhea and modestly increased in productive cough, but real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was positive for COVID-19.Conclusions. Although presentation of COVID-19 in patients with immunodeficiency could be mild, it should not be missed, while early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can survive affected patients.
Temperature Rise and Thermal Deformation of Magnetic Pole of MLDSB under Multiple Physical Field Coupling
Authors: ZHAO JianHua , ZHAO Ji-Sheng , LI Sheng , WANG Zhe , DU Guo-Jun , GAO Dian-Rong
Published: May 2020

The thermal deformation of magnetic poles caused by the heat loss of the coils of Magnetic Liquid Double Suspension Bearing (MLDSB) can reduced the gap between magnetic poles and magnetic sleeve, and the probability and degree of impact-rub can be increased in the working process of MLDSB. And the coatings of magnetic poles and magnetic sleeve can be worn overly, and the operation stability and service life of MLDSB will be reduced severely. The thermal deformation of magnetic poles can be affected by the material property of magnetic pole, the electric current of the coils, and the cooling effect of the lubricants and so on, so it belongs to the multiple physical field coupling. Therefore, the flow-solid-thermal coupled mathematics model of MLDSB is established and solved with ANSYS in this paper, and the distribution law of flow field of the magnetic pole is explored. The transfer path and distribution principles of heat loss are revealed and the distribution law of temperature rise and thermal deformation of magnetic pole in different operating conditions are explored. The results indicate that the temperature rise and thermal deformation of the stator is symmetrically distributed in the center, it gradually increase from the outside to the center, and the thermal deformation near the corner of magnetic pole is largest. The most heat loss can be taken away by the lubricants under the condition of heat balance. The thermal deformation of magnetic pole can increase linearly as the current gradually increase, and the stress is concentrated in the threaded hole and magnetic pole. The thermal deformation decreases linearly as the inlet pressure of the lubricants gradually increase. The PIV results of flow trace are basically consistent with the simulation results. The research in this paper can provide the theoretical reference for the structural design and the optimization of MLDSB.
Correlation Analysis of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma on Sonographic Features and Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis
Authors: Zhou Liuhua , Zhu Qiaodan , Yao Jincao , Ou Di , Yang Chen , Xu Dong
Published: May 2020

Background Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common pathological type of thyroid carcinoma. We aim to evaluate the correlation between sonographic features of PTC and cervical lymph node metastasis (CLNM). Methods A total of 1335 patients who underwent thyroidectomy and had pathologically confirmed unifocal PTC were enrolled in the retrospective research. Univariate analysis and logistic analysis were performed to predict CLNM by several independent variables. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was executed to evaluate the diagnostic performance. Results Univariate analysis showed that location, aspect ratio, margin, echogenic foci, TI-RADS score and grade were related to CLNM (P<0.05). Logistic analysis on sonographic features showed that margin and echogenic foci were independent correlative factors. Meanwhile, logistic analysis included clinical information, ultrasonic measurements and sonographic features showed that gender, age, tumour maximum diameter and volume, cross-sectional aspect ratio, location, margin and echogenic foci were independent correlative factors. The ROC curves were established based on the relevant factors, the AUC of tumour maximum diameter, tumour volume and margin were 0.738, 0.733, and 0.711, respectively. The regression model was constructed with AUC of 0.813, specificity of 70.3%, and sensitivity of 78.5%. ANOVA variance analysis on positive and negative group, tumour maximum diameter, margin, echogenic foci, TI-RADS score and grade had statistical significance (P < 0.05). Conclusion Lower location, larger lesion, margin and echogenic foci were high risk factors for CLNM in PTC, cross-sectional aspect ratio≥1 had more effective predictive value than longitudinal-sectional aspect ratio. Tumor volume was more effective to evaluate the lateral metastasis than maximum tumour diameter, it could guide preoperative FNA for CLNM.
Museomics of tree squirrels: A dense taxon sampling of mitogenomes reveals hidden diversity, phenotypic convergence, and the need of a taxonomic overhaul
Authors: Abreu Edson Fiedler de , Pavan Silvia E. , Tsuchiya Mirian T. N. , Wilson Don E. , Percequillo Alexandre R. , Maldonado Jesús E.
Published: May 2020

Background: Tree squirrels (Sciuridae, Sciurini), in particular the highly diverse Neotropical lineages, are amongst the most rapidly diversifying branches of the mammal tree of life but also some of the least known. Negligence of this group by systematists is likely a product of the difficulties in assessing morphological informative traits and of the scarcity or unavailability of fresh tissue samples for DNA sequencing. The highly discrepant taxonomic arrangements are a consequence of the lack of phylogenies and the exclusive phenotypic-based classifications, which can be misleading in a group with conservative morphology. Here we used high-throughput sequencing and an unprecedented sampling of museum specimens to provide the first comprehensive phylogeny of tree squirrels, with a special emphasis on Neotropical taxa.Results: We obtained complete or partial mitochondrial genomes from 232 historical and modern samples, representing 40 of the 43 currently recognized species of Sciurini. Our phylogenetic analyses—performed with datasets differing on levels of missing data and taxa under distinct analytical methods— strongly support the monophyly of Sciurini and consistently recovered 12 major clades within the tribe. We found evidence that the diversity of Neotropical tree squirrels is underestimated, with at least six lineages that represent taxa to be named or revalidated. Ancestral state reconstructions of number of upper premolars and number of mammae indicated that alternative conditions of both characters must have evolved multiple times throughout the evolutionary history of tree squirrels.Conclusions: Complete mitogenomes were obtained from museum specimens as old as 120 years, reinforcing the potential of historical samples for phylogenetic inferences of elusive lineages of the tree of life. None of the taxonomic arrangements ever proposed for tree squirrels fully corresponded to our phylogenetic reconstruction, with only a few of the currently recognized genera recovered as monophyletic. By investigating the evolution of two morphological traits widely employed in the taxonomy of the group, we revealed that their homoplastic nature can help explain the incongruence between phylogenetic results and the classification schemes presented so far. Based on our phylogenetic results we suggest a tentative supraspecific taxonomic arrangement for Sciurini, employing 13 generic names used in previous taxonomic classifications.
Identifying Facemask-wearing Condition Using Image Super-Resolution with Classification Network to Prevent COVID-19
Authors: QIN BOSHENG , LI DONGXIAO
Published: May 2020

Rapid worldwide spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID 19) has resulted in a global pandemic. Correct facemask wearing is valuable in infectious disease control, but the effectiveness of facemasks has been diminished mostly due to improper wearing. However, there have not been any published reports on the automatic identification of facemask wearing conditions. In this study, we developed a new facemask wearing condition identification method in combination with image super resolution with classification network (SRCNet) SRCNet), which quantified a three categories classification problem based on unconstrained 2D facial image images. The proposed algorithm contained four main steps: image pre processing, face detection and crop, image super resolution, and face mask wearing conditions identification. Our method was trained and evaluated on public dataset Medical Masks Dataset containing 3835 images with 671 images of no facemask wearing, 134 images of incorrect facemask wearing, and 3030 images of correct facemask wearing. Finally, the proposed SRCNet achieved 98.70% accuracy and outperformed traditional end to end image classification methods using deep learning without image super resolution by over 1.5 in kappa. Our findings indicate that the proposed SRCNet could achieve high accuracy identification in facemask wearing conditions , which have potential application in epidemic prevention involving COVID 19.
Forecasting COVID-19 onset risk and evaluating spatiotemporal variations of the lockdown effect in China
Authors: Shi Wenzhong , Tong Chengzhuo , Zhang Anshu , Wang Bin , Shi Zhicheng , Yao Yepeng , Jia Peng
Published: May 2020

It is important to forecast the risk of COVID-19 symptom onset and thereby evaluate how effectively the city lockdown measure could reduce this risk. This study is a first comprehensive, high-resolution investigation of spatiotemporal heterogeneities in the effect of the Wuhan lockdown on the risk of COVID-19 symptom onset in all 347 Chinese cities. An extended Weight Kernel Density Estimation model was developed to predict the COVID-19 onset risk under two scenarios (i.e., with and without Wuhan lockdown). The Wuhan lockdown, compared with the scenario without lockdown implementation, delayed the arrival of the COVID-19 onset risk peak for 1-2 days in general and lowered risk peak values among all cities. The decrease of the onset risk attributed to the lockdown was more than 8% in over 40% of Chinese cities, and up to 21.3% in some cities. Lockdown was the most effective in areas with medium risk before lockdown.
Black Plastic Tarps Advance Organic Reduced Tillage I: Impact on Soils, Weed Seed Survival, and Crop Residue
Authors: Rylander Haley , Rangarajan Anusuya , Maher Ryan M. , Hutton Mark G. , Rowley Nicholas W. , McGrath Margaret T. , Sexton Zachary F.
Published: May 2020

Intensive tillage degrades soil structure, decreases soil organic matter, and can cause soil compaction and erosion over time. Organic vegetable farmers are often dependent on tillage to incorporate crop residue, control weeds, and prepare seedbeds. Black, impermeable, polyethylene tarps applied on the soil surface and removed at planting can help suppress weeds before planting and reduce farmers’ reliance on tillage. However, little is known about how black tarps affect planting conditions and how they can be used to advance reduced tillage production systems. This study investigated the effects of tarp use and tarp duration on the soil environment, surface cover crop residue, and weed suppression to assess the efficacy of using tarps to improve reduced- and no-till practices for organic vegetable production. Experiments were conducted at three sites in the northeastern United States (Freeville, NY; Riverhead, NY; and Monmouth, ME) for 2 years. Following the termination of an oat cover crop, tarps were applied over untilled soils and left in place for four time periods: untarped (control), 3 to 5 weeks (short), 6 to 8 weeks (mid), and 10 or more weeks (long) before two removal dates. Soil moisture and temperature, cover crop residue, soil inorganic nitrogen, weed seed survival, and weed percent cover were measured after tarp removal. Soil moisture and temperature were generally higher under tarps at the time of removal compared with untarped areas at 10% to 55% and 1 to 3 °C, respectively, but the effects were inconsistent. Tarps significantly increased soil nitrate concentrations by 2-times to 21-times with longer tarp durations, resulting in higher concentrations compared with untarped controls. Tarps did not affect the amount of soil covered by cover crop residue and had no consistent effects on weed seed survival of Amaranthus powellii S. Wats. or Chenopodium album L., two common annual weed species in the Northeast. Tarping for at least 3 weeks reduced the weed percent cover by 95% to 100% at the time of removal. Increasing tarp duration beyond 3 weeks did not affect any measures except soil nitrate concentrations. These results indicate that tarps can facilitate the use of reduced-till and no-till practices for organic vegetables by creating a nutrient-rich and moist soil environment free of emerged weeds before planting without soil disturbance.