bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communicating COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Grbeša Marijana
Published: December 2020

In February 2020 Croatia was affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic. A challenging task of communicating the pandemic was assumed by the people associated with the Headquarters of Civil Protection of the Republic of Croatia. The goal of this study was to examine how three of them were covered in the media and to test if and how they were using pandemic-related strategies of persuasion to achieve public compliance. The findings indicate that the coverage of the key communicators during the first three months of the pandemic was overwhelmingly positive. Moreover, in the early stages of the pandemic none of the examined news sites was really pushing issues or angles that questioned pandemic-related policies or actions of the Headquarters. Examination of the rhetoric of the key coronavirus communicators has established that they have embraced persuasive strategies that are typical of pandemic communication, most notably the use of fear appeals, military metaphors and insistence on messages of 'togetherness' and conversely, 'pandemic shaming'. The article concludes that professional credibility and favorable media representation of Croatian coronavirus envoys, along with adopted persuasive strategies, have probably encouraged people to trust their decisions and comply with restrictive measures that have suspended their freedoms and changed their life routines almost overnight.
Constructing a Reliable Health Indicator for Bearings Using Convolutional Autoencoder and Continuous Wavelet Transform
Authors: Kaji Mohammadreza , Parvizian Jamshid , Venn Hans Wernher van de
Published: December 2020

Estimating the remaining useful life (RUL) of components is a crucial task to enhance the reliability, safety, productivity, and to reduce maintenance cost. In general, predicting the RUL of a component includes constructing a health indicator ( ) to infer the current condition of the component, and modelling the degradation process, to estimate the future behavior. Although many signal processing and data-driven based methods were proposed to construct the , most of the existing methods are based on manual feature extraction techniques, and need the prior knowledge of experts, or rely on a large amount of failure data. Therefore, in this study, a new data-driven method based on the convolutional autoencoder (CAE) is presented to construct the . For this purpose, the continuous wavelet transform (CWT) technique is used to convert the raw acquired vibrational signals into a two-dimensional image; then, the CAE model is trained by the healthy operation dataset. Finally, the Mahalanobis Distance (MD) between the healthy and failure stages is measured as the . The proposed method is tested on a benchmark bearing dataset and compared with several other traditional construction models. Experimental results indicate that the constructed exhibits a monotonically increasing degradation trend and has a good performance to detect incipient faults.
Linking Soil CO2 Efflux to Individual Trees: Size-Dependent Variation and the Importance of the Birch Effect
Authors: Thomas Sean C. , Schurman Jonathan S.
Published: December 2020

Soil CO2 efflux (FCO2) plays a dominant role in the terrestrial carbon (C) cycle but interpreting constraints on local observations is impeded by challenges in disentangling belowground CO2 sources. Trees contribute most C to forest soils, so linking aboveground properties to FCO2 could open new avenues to study plant-soil feedbacks and facilitate scaling; furthermore, FCO2 responds dynamically to meteorological conditions, complicating predictions of total FCO2 and forest C balance. We tested for proximity effects of individual Acer saccharum Marsh. trees on FCO2, comparing FCO2 within 1 m of mature stems to background fluxes before and after an intense rainfall event. Wetting significantly increased background FCO2 (6.4±0.3 vs. 8.6±0.6 s.e. μmol CO2 m-2s-1), with a much larger enhancement near tree stems (6.3±0.3 vs. 10.8±0.4 μmol CO2 m-2s-1). FCO2 varied significantly among individual trees and post-rain values increased with tree diameter (with a slope of 0.058 μmol CO2 m-2s-1 cm-1). Post-wetting amplification of FCO2 (the ‘Birch effect’) in root zones often results from the improved mobility of labile carbohydrates and further metabolization of recalcitrant organic matter, which may both occur at higher densities near larger trees. Our results indicate that plant-soil feedbacks change through tree ontogeny and provide evidence for a novel link between whole-system carbon fluxes and forest structure.
Use of Alcohol and Addictive Drugs During the COVID-19 Outbreak: Associations with Mental Health and Pandemic-Related Problems
Authors: Bonsaksen Tore , Ekeberg Øivind , Schou-Bredal Inger , Skogstad Laila , Heir Trond , Grimholt Tine K.
Published: December 2020

The outbreak of COVID-19 has had a major impact on people’s daily life. This study aimed to examine use of alcohol and addictive drugs during the COVID-19 outbreak and examine their association with mental health problems and problems related to the pandemic. A sample of 4527 persons responded to the survey. Use of alcohol and addictive drugs were cross-tabulated with sociodemographic variables, mental health problems and problems related to COVID-19. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the strength of the associations. Daily use of alcohol was associated with depression and expecting financial loss in relation to the COVID-19 outbreak. Use of cannabis was associated with expecting financial loss in relation to COVID-19. Use of sedatives was associated with anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Use of painkillers was associated with insomnia and self-reported risk of complications if contracting the coronavirus. We conclude that the occurrence of mental health problems is more important for an understanding of the use of alcohol and addictive drugs during the COVID-19 outbreak compared to specific pandemic-related worries.
Operando in-SEM Study of Micro-Deformation and Fracture Behaviour of Carbonized Elastomer-Based Composites
Authors: Statnik Eugene S. , Ignatyev Semen D. , Stepashkin Andrey A. , Salimon Alexey I. , Chukov Dilyus , Kaloshkin Sergey D. , Korsunsky Alexander M.
Published: December 2020

The carbonized elastomer-based composites (CECs) possess a number of attractive features in terms of thermomechanical and electromechanical performance, durability in aggressive media and facile net-shape formability, but their relatively low ductility and strength limit their suitability for structural engineering applications. Prospective applications such as structural elements of MEMS can be envisaged, since smaller principal dimensions reduce the susceptibility of components to residual stress accumulation during carbonization, and to brittle fracture in general. We report the results of operando in-SEM study of micro-deformation and fracture behavior of CECs based on NBR elastomeric matrices filled with carbon and silicon carbide. Nanostructured carbon composite materials were manufactured via compounding of elastomeric substance with carbon and SiC fillers using mixing rolling mill, vulcanization, and low-temperature carbonization. Double Edge Notched Tensile (DENT) specimens of vulcanized and carbonized elastomeric composites were subjected to in situ tensile testing in the chamber of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) Tescan Vega 3 using Deben Microtest 1 kN Tensile Stage. The series of acquired SEM images were analyzed by means of Digital Image Correlation (DIC) using Ncorr open source software to map the spatial distribution of strain. These maps were correlated with Finite Element Modelling (FEM) simulations to refine the values of elastic moduli. Besides, the elastic moduli were derived from unloading curve nanoindentation hardness measurements carried out using NanoScan-4D tester and interpreted using the Oliver-Pharr method. Carbonization causes significant increase of elastic moduli from 0.86 ± 0.07 to 14.12 ± 1.20 GPa for the composite with graphite and carbon black fillers. Nanoindentation measurements yield somewhat lower values, namely, 0.25 ± 0.02 GPa and 9.83 ± 1.10 GPa before and after carbonization respectively. The analysis of fractography images suggests that crack initiation, growth and propagation may occur both at the notch stress concentrator and relatively far from the notch. Possible causes of such response are discussed, namely, (1) residual stresses introduced by processing; (2) shape and size of fillers; and (3) the emanation and accumulation of gases in composites during carbonization.
Profiling Ribonucleotide and Deoxyribonucleotide Pools Perturbed by Remdesivir in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Huixia , Luo Wendi , Lam Christopher Wai Kei , Wang Caiyun , Bai Liping , Wong Vincent Kam Wai , Zhang Wei , Jiang Zhihong
Published: December 2020

Remdesivir (RDV) has garnered much hope for its moderate anti-COVID-19 effects, but its limited amelioration of survival in hospitalized patient causes a huge controversy over the applicability of RDV to COVID-19 treatment. Developing strategies to improve its antivirus efficacy is urgently required. As anticipated, RDV exhibits similar behavior with other nucleotide analogs to disrupt the metabolism of natural endogenous ribonucleotides (RNs) and deoxyribonucleotides (dRNs). Alterations in endogenous RNs and dRNs play a critical role in virus replication as well as other key cellular functions. Thus elucidation of the disturbances of RDV on RNs and dRNs could help to understand its exact mechanism of action. Here, the metabolic profiling determined by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry method showed a general increase in the abundance of nucleotides and a more than 2-fold increase for specific nucleotides. However, the variation of pyrimidine ribonucleotides was relative slight or even contrary, resulting in obvious imbalance between purine and pyrimidine ribonucleotides, which implied the obstacle of RDV to pyrimidine synthesis and could further block the transcription and replication of viral RNA. Additionally, the extreme disequilibrium between cytidine triphosphate (CTP) and cytidine monophosphate might result from the inhibition of CTP synthase and provide a metabolic target for the treatment of COVID-19 infection. Since nucleotides metabolism pathways are vulnerable to nucleotide analogues and are liable to be the regulation targets, it is promising to enhance the efficacy of RDV through co-administration with CTP synthase inhibitors or de novo pyrimidine synthesis inhibitors to exacerbate the imbalance of nucleotide pools.
Kontribusi Tingkat Pendidikan Orang Tua, Lingkungan, dan Kecerdasan Logis Terhadap Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Matematis
Authors: Ardiansyah M
Published: December 2020

This study aims to determine the effect of parental education level, environment, and logical intelligence on the mathematical critical thinking skills of class X students at a vocational school in Jakarta in the 2019/2020 school year. This research uses the ex post facto method with a quantitative approach. The population in this study were all students of class X at one of the vocational schools in Jakarta, totaling 260 students. Sampling using a simple random sampling technique. The results of the study found that there was a significant influence on the level of parental education on mathematical critical thinking skills, there was a significant influence on the environment on mathematical critical thinking skills, there was a significant effect of logical intelligence on mathematical critical thinking skills, and there was a significant influence between the educational level of parents. environment and logical intelligence towards mathematical critical thinking skills.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh tingkat pendidikan orang tua, lingkungan, dan kecerdasan logis terhadap kemampuan berpikir kritis matematis siswa kelas X pada salah satu SMK di Jakarta pada tahun pelajaran 2019/2020. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode ex post facto dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh siswa kelas X pada salah satu SMK di Jakarta yang berjumlah 260 siswa. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik simple random sampling. Hasil penelitian menemukan bahwa terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan tingkat pendidikan orang tua terhadap keterampilan berpikir kritis matematis, terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan lingkungan terhadap keampilan berpikir kritis matematis, terdapat pengaruh signifikan kecerdasan logis terhadap keterampilan berpikir kritis matematis, dan terdapat pengaruh signifikan antara tingkat pendidikan orang tua, lingkungan dan kecerdasan logis terhadap keterampilan berpikir kritis matematis.
Prácticas económicas alternativas en la ciudad de Sevilla
Authors: González-Romero Gema , Caravaca-Barroso Inmaculada
Published: December 2020

Los graves impactos provocados por la crisis sistémica y las políticas de austeridad han puesto en cuestión el modelo económico neoliberal propiciando, a su vez, el interés por prácticas económicas alternativas basadas en la colaboración ciudadana y en la solidaridad. Este artículo analiza dichas prácticas en la ciudad de Sevilla, prestando especial atención a su dimensión espacial y al papel que puedan ejercer en la evolución de ciertas zonas urbanas; se consideran, además, sus trayectorias, tipologías y actores. La ausencia de estadísticas oficiales ha requerido trabajo de campo y entrevistas. Junto a lo anterior, ha sido necesaria la aplicación de métodos y técnicas de análisis de redes sociales para poder estudiar las relaciones de colaboración inherentes a estas prácticas. De la investigación se desprende que el entorno territorial resulta clave para entender las razones que explican su proliferación y su evolución en barrios que guardan similitudes urbanísticas, socioeconómicas, culturales e ideológicas. Su destacada presencia en la zona norte del casco antiguo de la ciudad parece estar convirtiendo a algunos de sus barrios en espacios urbanos dinámicos, solidarios e inclusivos que pueden aportar un nuevo o renovado carácter a la ciudad.
Dampak Sertifikasi Dan Pendidikan Terakhir Terhadap Kinerja Guru Paud Di Kabupaten Ponorogo
Authors: Nusa Popila Rikma , Irawan Edi
Published: December 2020

Abstract: Certification allowance comes as a form of appreciation for professional teacher performance. However, the reality is that there are still many teachers who are not yet certified educators. This study aims to determine: 1) Is there a difference in the performance of PAUD teachers who are already certified and not certified; 2) Is there a difference in the performance of PAUD teachers with PAUD / Psychology and non PAUD / non Psychology education; 3) Is there an interaction between certification and recent education on the performance of PAUD teachers. This research uses a quantitative method with a comparative causal approach. with simple random sampling. Data analysis was performed using the two-way ANOVA test. The results of the study show that: 1) The performance of certified teachers is better than those not certified; 2) The performance of PAUD teachers with PAUD / Psychology and non PAUD / Psychology last education is equally good; 3) There is no interaction between certification and educational background on the performance of PAUD teachers.
Local-Integral Coupling Model of Tubular Strings with Connectors and Its Application in Periodic Sticking Analyses
Authors: Huang Wenjun , Gao Deli
Published: December 2020

As tubular structures and wellbore conditions in drilling engineering become more complex, the integral mechanical problem of tubular strings with connectors becomes more complicated, and it exceeds the scope of conventional tubular mechanics. To solve this problem, the concept of local-integral coupling of tubular strings is presented, and a local-integral coupling model is built. The coupling model is obtained by introducing the amended factors from local model into the integral model. Next, the coupling model is applied to extended-reach drilling in the South China Sea. The main reason for a common problem in drilling 12¼-in. sections in X oilfield, named periodic sticking, is studied from qualitative and quantitative aspects. The mechanical drags on connectors when periodic sticking occurs and mechanical extending limits considering mechanical drags are analyzed. The results indicate that openhole keyseat is the main reason for periodic sticking in long openhole drilling in X oilfield. Openhole keyseats are formed by drillstring connectors grinding the borehole wall under rotary drilling mode. Reducing or eliminating openhole keyseats is very important for safe and efficient extended-reach drilling.
Sediment-encased pressure-temperature maturation experiments chemically simulate natural diagenesis of melanin
Authors: Roy Arindam , Pittman Michael , Kaye Thomas , Saitta Evan
Published: December 2020

Palaeocolour informs the ecology, physiology and behaviour of extinct animals. However, there is room for improvement in palaeocolour reconstructions due to poor understanding of the chemical changes occurring in pigmented soft tissues during fossilisation. Pressure-temperature maturation experiments are key to expanding our knowledge of pigmented soft-tissue preservation. Prior work on melanin has yielded limited insights in highly closed systems due to stable and volatile diagenetic products mixing and obscuring chemical analyses as well as in open systems because of the leaking and loss of samples. To replicate natural fossilisation, modern melanised feathers were encased in a porous bentonite clay matrix and subjected to a next-generation maturation system. Resultant samples closely resemble natural fossils both visually and chemically. Using mass spectrometry, increased crosslinking is identified within the overall melanin polymer alongside predictable loss of volatile nitrogen/sulphur bearing molecular groups with higher maturation temperatures for the first time, chemically simulating natural melanin diagenesis.
Efficacy of vafidemstat in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis highlights the KDM1A/RCOR1/HDAC epigenetic axis in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cavalcanti Fernando , Gonzalez-Rey Elena , Delgado Mario , Mestre Leyre , Guaza Carmen , Lufino Michele MP , Xaus Jordi , Mascaró Cristina , Lunardi Serena , Sacilotto Natalia , Dessanti Paola , Rotllant David , Navarro Xavier , Herrando-Grabulosa Mireia , Buesa Carlos , Maes Tamara
Published: December 2020

Background Vafidemstat (ORY-2001) is a clinical stage inhibitor of the Lysine Specific Demethylase KDM1A in development for treatment of neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. KDM1A demethylates H3K4me1/2 and together with the histone deacetylases HDAC1/2, it forms part of co-repressor complexes recruited by zinc finger factors to control transcription. The exact role of KDM1A in neuroinflammation remained to be explored. Methods Compounds were administered p.o. gavage to mice with MOG35-55 induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis or mice infected with Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus. Immune cell infiltration was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Cytokine and chemokine levels were analyzed by ELISA. Genome wide gene expression in spinal cord and brain were analyzed by two-color microarray analysis and qRT-PCR.Results ORY-2001 improved the clinical score in mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and in mice infected with the Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus. The compound reduced lymphocyte egress and infiltration of immune cells in the spinal cord and prevented demyelination. ORY-2001 was more effective and/or faster acting than a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor antagonist in the effector phase of the disease and reduced the induction of the inflammatory gene expression signature in the central nervous system more potently. Gene expression changes and axonal protection in animals, and protection against glutamate excitoxicity in spinal cord explants support that ORY-2001 has neuroprotective qualities.Conclusions ORY-2001 exerts therapeutic activity in two mouse models of multiple sclerosis. The anti-inflammatory properties of ORY-2001 are being tested in a Phase IIa clinical trial in patients with relapse remitting and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, and in severely ill COVID-19 patients at risk for acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Delay of Detection Of COVID-19 Patients In Bangladesh; An Application To Cox Proportional Hazard Model
Authors: Rudra Sujan , Das Shuva , Hoque Md. Ehsanul , Kalam Abul , Rahman Mohammad Arifur
Published: December 2020

Objective: To delineate the survival rate of the patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who did the diagnostic tests lately after the development of symptoms. The aim is to determine the socio-demographic risk factors associated with the delay of the detection of COVID-19 patients. Methods: For this cross-sectional study, 300 patients were selected who were diagnosed as COVID-19 patients in the Molecular Biology Laboratory of Chittagong Medical College, Chattogram, Bangladesh. Data were collected from May to July 2020. Clinical characteristics were obtained from over phone interviews and laboratory diagnosis by Real-time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR). Cox proportional hazard model is applied to estimate risk factors affecting the delay of detection of COVID-19 patients.Result: Female mortality rate was 44.9% higher compared to males, graduates died 32% more than undergraduates, unmarried peoples’ death rate were 56% more than married and those who were in traveling irregularly and in contact with symptomatic patients, were 86% more died than non-travelers.Conclusion: Early diagnosis of COVID-19 can save a huge amount of lives and special attention should be emphasized on the significant explanatory variable.
Are Healthy Habits Associated With Reduced Mental Health Problems?
Authors: Moreno-Mencia Patricia , Cantarero-Prieto David
Published: December 2020

Background: Mental illness is an increasing problem in developed countries and affect a large number of the Spanish population. Moreover, it contributes to early retirement and also some working conditions, such as the stress level or the satisfaction with the job, are associated with an the risk of depressive and anxiety symptoms. The purpose of this article is to investigate the Spanish regional differences in the effect that some life conditions, such as obesity, doing exercise regularly, having a good diet, not smoking or not drinking alcohol has on mental health problems. Methods: We use data from the Spanish National Health Survey of 2017 in order to estimate a multilevel logit model with the objective to calculate the effects of life conditions factors on mental health outcomes. The main objective is to provide a comparable framework for the Spanish population with different characteristics though multilevel analysis. Results: People has, in average, 10.6% chances of having depression across all regions. Similarly we can show that in average, the probability of having anxiety problems is a 9.4% and is a 2.2% in case of other mental illnesses across the Spanish Regions. Men have less probability of having mental health problems, the same as married people, those with higher level of studies and the ones which are satisfied at work. Moreover, having healthy habits reduce the probability of suffering any mental disorder. On the other hand, older people and obese have more probability of developing a mental illness. Conclusions: Mental disorders are a growing public health problem in developed countries. So that, Governments has taken measures to deal with the problem such as the prevention. In order to prevent the mental problems they have to concentrate efforts in stress reduction, measures to decrease alcohol and tobacco consumption, to incentive the healthy life avoiding obesity problems, etc.
Distributed Localization Using Levenberg-Marquardt Algorithm
Authors: Ahmadi Shervin Parvini , Hansson Anders , Pakazad Sina Khoshfetrat
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we propose a distributed algorithm for sensor network localization based on a maximum-likelihood formulation. It relies on the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm where the computations are distributed among different computational agents using message passing, or equivalently dynamic programming. The resulting algorithm provides a good localization accuracy, and it converges to the same solution as its centralized counterpart. Moreover, it requires fewer iterations and communications between computational agents compared to first-order methods. The performance of the algorithm is demonstrated with extensive simulations in Julia, in which it is shown that we outperform distributed methods that are based on approximate maximum likelihood formulations.
Identification of Seven-Gene Hypoxia Signature for Predicting Overall Survival of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Bai YuPing , Qi Wenbo , Liu Le , Zhang Jing , Pang Lan , Gan Tiejun , Wang Pengfei , Chen Hao
Published: December 2020

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma is ranked fifth among the most common cancer worldwide. Hypoxia can induce tumor growth, but the relationship with HCC prognosis remains unclear. Our study aims to construct a hypoxia-related multigene model to predict the prognosis of HCC. Methods: RNA-seq expression data and related clinical information were download from TCGA database and ICGC database, respectively. Univariate/multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to construct prognostic models. KM curve analysis, and ROC curve were used to evaluate the prognostic models, which were further verified in the clinical traits and ICGC database. GSEA analyzed pathway enrichment in high-risk groups. Nomogram was constructed to predict the personalized treatment of patients. Finally, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expressions of KDELR3 and SCARB1 in normal hepatocytes and 4 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Results: Through a series of analyses, 7 prognostic markers related to HCC survival were constructed. HCC patients were divided into the high and low risk group, and the results of KM curve showed that there was a significant difference between the two groups. Stratified analysis，found that there were significant differences in risk values of different ages, genders, stages and grades, which could be used as independent predictors. In addition, we assessed the risk value in the clinical traits analysis and found that it could accelerate the progression of cancer, while the results of GSEA enrichment analysis showed that the high-risk group patients were mainly distributed in the cell cycle and other pathways. Then, Nomogram was constructed to predict the overall survival of patients. Finally, RT-qPCR showed that KDELR3 and SCARB1 were highly expressed in HepG2 and L02, respectively. Conclusion: This study provides a potential diagnostic indicator for HCC patients, and help clinicians to deepen the comprehension in HCC pathogenesis so as to make personalized medical decisions.
Thromboprophylaxis, Delta SOFA and Main Outcomes in Ventilated Patients: An Analysis of the MIMIC-III Clinical Database
Authors: Bastola Mrigendra , Locatis Craig , Fontelo Paul
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Critical care patients are at higher risk for thromboembolic disorders. There are limited studies regarding the effect of Heparin, Warfarin, Enoxaparin and Aspirin on ventilated patients, who are likely to both benefit from prophylaxis and suffer from adverse effects of blood thinners. Methods: This study analyzed the MIMIC-III clinical database on 4192 ventilated patients using Statistical Analysis Software (V9.4). Relevant data was systematically analyzed on the thromboprophylaxis agents and their effects on major treatment outcomes. Parameters studied were the length of ventilation, length of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stays, ICU mortality, inpatient mortality, improvement in SOFA score (delta SOFA), and occurrence of major thromboembolic events such as pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Results: Except Aspirin, all thromboprophylactic agents showed statistically significant reduction on ICU mortality. None of the blood thinners showed statistically significant reduction in occurrences of pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis. The treatment groups did not show any significant difference in their baseline SOFA scores among the included ventilated patients (ANOVA, F=2.26, p=0.06). Heparin, Warfarin, Enoxaparin and Aspirin had adjusted Odds ratios of 0.59(p<0.01, 0.47-0.77), 0.23(p<0.05, 0.1-0.57), 0.36(P<0.05, 0.16-0.83) and 0.75(p=0.15, 0.51-1.1) for ICU mortality. Heparin, Warfarin, Enoxaparin and Aspirin had adjusted Odds ratios of 0.51(p<0.01, 0.38-0.68), 0.19(p<0.01, 0.06-0.59), 0.42(p=0.06, 0.17-1.05) and 0.84(p=0.43, 0.84-0.54) for overall ventilated patient hospital mortality, including after transfers to the inpatient ward. Only Heparin (p<0.05, OR 1.52(1.07-2.15)) was associated with thrombocytopenia episodes, which required platelets transfusion. None showed statistically significant relationships with development of thromboembolic events after thromboprophylaxis. Only Heparin had mild effect on improvement in sequential organ failure assessment (delta SOFA) scores at 7 and 10 day after ICU admission (p<0.05, OR 1.17 (1.03-1.32)). Conclusion: Although the results supported the use of thromboprophylaxis in ventilated patients to improve treatment outcomes, no benefits were indicated for using newer blood thinners (Enoxaparin) than older ones (Heparin & Warfarin). Heparin is related to both higher episodes of platelets transfusion and improvement of delta SOFA scores at end of first week of ICU admission. If validated by future research, the findings of this study might help practitioners and researchers to better understand thromboprophylaxis in ventilated patients.
BTB and CNC homology 1 (Bach1) induces lung cancer stem cell phenotypes by inducing CD44 expression
Authors: Jiang Pan , Hao Shengyu , Xie Liang , Xiang Guiling , Hu Weiping , Wu Qinhan , Liu Zilong , Li Shanqun
Published: December 2020

Background

Growing evidence suggests that CSCs are responsible for cancer initiation in tumors. Bach1 has been identified to contribute to several tumor progression, including lung cancer. The role of Bach1 in CSCs remains poorly known. Therefore, the function of Bach1 on lung CSCs was focused currently.
Methods

The expression of Bach1, CD133, CD44, Sox2, Nanog and Oct4 mRNA was assessed using RT-qPCR. Protein expression of Bach1, CD133, CD44, Sox2, Nanog and Oct4 was analyzed by western blotting. EdU, colony formation, Flow cytometry analysis and transwell invasion assay were carried out to analyze cell proliferation, apoptosis and invasion. Tumor sphere formation assay was utilized to evaluate spheroid capacity. The relationship between Bach1 and CD44 was verified using ChIP-qPCR and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Ki-67 expression was determined by flow cytometry and IHC assay.
Results

The ratio of CD44 + CSCs from A549 and SPC-A1 cells were significantly enriched. Tumor growth of CD44 + CSCs was obviously suppressed in vivo. Bach1 expression was obviously increased in CD44 + CSCs. Then, via using the in vitro experiment, it was observed that CSC growth and invasion were greatly reduced by the down-regulation of Bach1. Loss of Bach1 was able to repress tumor-sphere formation and tumor-initiating CSC markers via acting as a transcription inducer of CD44. A repression of CSCs growth and metastasis of shRNA-Bach1 was confirmed using xenograft models. Furthermore, MAPK signaling pathway was selected and we proved the effects of Bach1 on lung CSCs were associated with the activation of the MAPK pathway. Inhibition of MAPK signaling remarkably restrained lung CSCs growth and CSCs properties.
Conclusion

In summary, our findings reveal that Bach1 positively regulated CD44 + lung cancer CSCs growth and we imply that Bach1 demonstrates great potential for the treatment of lung cancer metastasis and recurrence via regulating CD44 and MPAK signaling.
Are we Contented in Achieving Universal Health Coverage in Treating Dengue Patients in Sri Lanka?
Authors: Perera Nadeeka , Silva Amala De , Wass Dulshika Amarasinghe , Wijewickrama Ananda , Prathapan Shamini
Published: December 2020

BackgroundAmong infectious diseases, Dengue illness causes a major public health threat in Sri Lanka. The preventive and the curative services place a financial burden on the state health sector and household cost and out of pocket expenditure also are important cost components embedded with Dengue infection. ObjectiveTo estimate the household costs and out of pocket expenditure incurred due to Dengue infection among adults who received institutional care.MethodsA longitudinal study was conducted from July to December 2018. Fifty patients each from DF and DHF categories were recruited with systematic sampling admitted to an institution in Colombo District, Sri Lanka. Adults residing in Colombo District of Sri Lanka for more than six months prior to Dengue/DHF episode, were recruited based on a systematic sampling method. Details were obtained via an interviewer administered questionnaire. They were interviewed on day of discharge from the hospital and were followed up for two weeks. Unit cost per patient was calculated. The household costs were calculated for three phases; ambulatory cost, costs incurred during hospitalization and post hospitalization costs. These components were described using mean, median, standard deviation and inter-quartile range and out of pocket expenditure were calculatedResultsThe median age in DF group was 38.5 years and in DHF group was 28.5 years. Average household cost was US$127.69(SD=93.32) and US$134.71(SD=94.31) for DF and DHF patients respectively. Among DF patients 98.03% was borne using OOPE and among DHF patients it was 95.57%. In 2016, the average monthly income of a household in Colombo was US$571.82. Therefore nearly 25% of the monthly income had been spent on a single adult with Dengue.ConclusionsIf an adult member is hospitalized with Dengue infection the Out of pocket expenditure is high, which is nearly 25% of a family’s monthly income. Strengthening the Dengue control programme is the key towards Universal Health Coverage.
The Effects of Smoking, Regular Drinking, and Unhealthy Weight on Healthcare Utilization in China
Authors: Li Changle , Mao Zhengzhong , Yu Caixia
Published: December 2020

Background: The preventable risk factors such as smoking, harmful drinking, and unhealthy weight have contributed to the accelerated rise in non-communicable chronic diseases that are dominant drivers of health care use and spending in China. This study aimed to ascertain the effects of smoking, regular drinking, and unhealthy weight on healthcare utilization in China. Methods: The database used in this study was obtained from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), and the final sample consisted of 63,260 adults in all the five waves of data collection. The fixed effects logistic regression model was used for the analysis. Results: The current study found that among Chinese adults, current and former smokers were more likely to use outpatient and inpatient care compared to those who never smoked. Former smokers increased the odds of using outpatient and inpatient care than current smokers. Moreover, compared to healthy weight people, obese people increased the likelihood of using outpatient and inpatient care, and overweight people were more likely to be hospitalized. In contrast, people who regularly drank alcohol were less likely to use outpatient and inpatient care than non-regular drinkers. Conclusion: This study ascertained the effects of smoking, regular drinking, and unhealthy weight on healthcare utilization in China using a five-waves of balanced panel data set. These results may have important implications for supporting the government to make healthcare resources allocation decisions.
Sound Pressure Level Spectra of Automotive Side-View Mirror Models Deduced From Time-Resolved Three-Dimensional Particle Tracking Velocimetry Data With Artificial Intelligence Based Data Assimilation Method
Authors: Kim Dong , Safdari Arman , Kim Kyung Chun
Published: December 2020

This paper proposes a data assimilation method based on artificial intelligence (AI) to obtain sound level spectrum as increasing the spatial and temporal resolution of time-resolved three-dimensional Particle Tracking Velocimetry (4D PTV) data. A 4D PTV has used to measure flow characteristics of three side mirror models adopting the Shake-The-Box (STB) algorithm with four high-speed cameras on a robotic arm for measuring industrial scale. Helium filled soap bubbles are used as tracers in the wind tunnel experiment to characterize flow structures around automobile side mirror models. Full volumetric velocity fields and evolution of vortex structures are obtained and analyzed. Instantaneous pressure fields are deduced by solving a Poisson equation based on the 4D PTV data. To increase spatial and temporal resolutions of velocity field, artificial intelligence (AI)-based data assimilation method has applied. Adaptive Neural Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) based machine learning algorithm works well to find hidden 3D vortical structures behind the automobile side mirror model. Using the high resolution ANFIS model, power spectrum of velocity fluctuations and sound level spectrum of pressure fluctuations are successfully obtained to assess flow and noise characteristics of three different side mirror models.
Horizontal tectonics assembled unrelated crustal blocks in the Paleoarchean
Authors: Jayananda Mudlappa , GUITREAU Martin , Ravindran Aadhiseshan Krishnaswami , Chung Sun-Lin , Miyazaki Takashi
Published: December 2020

Archean geodynamics and craton formation are topics of much debate for decades. Here we present evidence from field, petrography, geochronology, elements and Nd-Hf isotopes for origin of micro-blocks in different geodynamic environments and their assembly by horizontal tectonics in Paleoarchean. The cratonal core in the western Dharwar craton (southern India) formed through assembly of three genetically unrelated micro-blocks: a microcontinent with oceanic plateau remnants, oceanic arc, and a section of oceanic lithosphere. Isotopic age data of these blocks and surrounding basement gneisses indicate that most of the later is coeval to or younger than the blocks. The assembly three micro-blocks marked by intrusion of hot trondhjemite magmas which drive partial convective crustal overturn, resulting in dome-and-keel structures visible in the Archean cratons. Our study reveals horizontal motion of unrelated tectonic units during Paleoarchean, but mantle plumes driven vertical accretion contributed to major crustal growth allowing geodynamic linkage between Paleoarchean cratons.
First Report on Tertiary Amine as a Co2 Switchable Solvent for Hypersaline Trebouxiophycean Microalgae Towards Greener and Competent Lipid Extraction
Authors: Anto Susaimanickam , Premalatha M , Mathimani Thangavel
Published: December 2020

Considering the momentous cost drivers in energy efficient algal biorefinery processes, a green alternative in the lipid extraction process from microalgae is anticipated. Switchable solvent system using tertiary amines namely DMBA (Dimethylbenzylamine), DMCHA (Dimethylcyclohexylamine), and DIPEA (Diisopropylethylamine) for lipid extraction from wet hypersaline microalgae was investigated in this study. Interestingly, showed that at 1:1 (v/v of fresh DMBA solvent: microalgal biomass), and for 1 h extraction time, the lipid yield was 41.9, 26.6, and 33.3% for Chlorella sp. NITT 05, Chlorella sp. NITT 02, and Picochlorum sp. NITT 04 respectively and for recovered DMBA solvent at 1:1 (v/v) and for 1 hour extraction time, the lipid yield was 40.8, 25.97, and 32%, respectively. Similarly, lipid extraction using DMCHA solvent for Chlorella sp. NITT 05, Chlorella sp. NITT 02, and Picochlorum sp. NITT 04 at 1:1 (v/v of solvent: microalgal biomass) and 1 h extraction time showed 34.28, 24.24 and 23.33% lipids, respectively for fresh solvent and 34.01, 24.24 and 23.18% for recovered solvent respectively; while DIPEA was not competent in lipid extraction from three tested microalgae. FAME profile shows the presence of major saturated fatty acid as C16:0 (~ 30%) and major unsaturated fatty acid as C18:1 (~17%).
Prognostic Value and Regulatory Network of Immune-Related Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Zhang Keying , Yang Fa , Xu Chao , Jiao Jianhua , Zhao Xiaolong , Wang Yan , Liu Shaojie , Jiang Yao , Wen Weihong , Fu Zhaoying
Published: December 2020

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a disease with higher morbidity, mortality, and poor prognosis in the whole world. Understanding the crosslink between HCC and the immune system is essential for people to uncover a few potential and valuable therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to reveal the correlation between HCC and immune-related genes and establish a clinical evaluation model. Methods: We had analyzed the clinical information consisted of 373 HCC and 49 normal samples from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA). The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected by the Wilcoxon test and the immune-related differentially expressed genes (IRDEGs) in DEGs were identified by matching DEGs with immune-related genes downloaded from the ImmPort database. Furthermore, the univariate Cox regression analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis were performed to construct a prognostic risk model. Then, twenty-two types of tumor immune-infiltrating cells (TIICs) were downloaded from Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and were used to construct the correlational graphs between the TIICs and risk score by the CIBERSORT. Subsequently, the transcription factors (TFs) were gained in the Cistrome website and the differentially expressed TFs (DETFs) were achieved. Finally, the KEGG pathway analysis and GO analysis were performed to further understand the molecular mechanisms between DETFs and PDIRGs.Results: In our study, 5839 DEGs, 326 IRDEGs, and 31 prognosis-related IRDEGs (PIRDEGs) were identified. And 8 optimal PIRDEGs were employed to construct a prognostic risk model by multivariate Cox regression analysis. The correlation between risk genes and clinical characterizations and TIICs has verified that the prognostic model was effective in predicting the prognosis of HCC patients. Finally, several important immune-related pathways and molecular functions of the eight PIRDEGs were significantly enriched and there was a distinct association between the risk IRDEGs and TFs. Conclusion: The prognostic risk model showed a more valuable predicting role for HCC patients, and produced many novel therapeutic targets and strategies for HCC.
Overexpression of lncRNA ITGB2-AS1 Predicts Adverse Prognosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Zhou Ying-li , Xu Zi-jun , Yao Dong-ming , Zhou Jing-dong , Zhang Ting- juan , Ma Ji-chun , Lin Jiang , Qian Jun
Published: December 2020

BackgroundIn recent years, lncRNA ITGB2-AS1 has been found to play important roles in the occurrence and development of human solid tumors. However, its role in hematological diseases, especially acute myeloid leukemia (AML), remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the expression pattern of ITGB2-AS1 in AML patients and to further explore its clinical significance. MethodsITGB2-AS1 expression was analyzed in public datasets (including TCGA and GSE63270) and further validated in our cohort of 109 AML patients using real-time quantitative PCR (RQ-PCR). ResultsThe level of ITGB2-AS1 was up-regulated among two independent cohorts (TCGA, P<0.05; GSE63270, P<0.05), which was confirmed by our own data (P<0.05). Clinically, high ITGB2-AS1 expression was associated with older age (P=0.023) and lower complete remission (CR) rate (P=0.005). Multivariate analysis identified that high ITGB2-AS1 expression was an independent prognostic factor not only for CR rate (P=0.027) but also for overall survival (OS) time (P=0.011). ITGB2-AS1 was found positively correlated with ITGB2 expression in both TCGA (R=0.74, P<0.001) and our own data (R=0.881, P<0.001). Similarly, high ITGB2 expression was also associated with older age (P=0.02) and lower CR rate (P=0.015). Moreover, high ITGB2 expression also predicted worse OS (P=0.028). ConclusionITGB2-AS1 is overexpressed in AML and predicts poor prognosis in AML.
The Characteristics of Visual Function and Intervention in Deprivation Amblyopia in Limbal Dermoid Children After Keratoplasty: A Pilot Study of Adopting Flank-Mask Perceptual Learning
Authors: Zhong Jing , Wang Yiyao , Hu Xiaoqing , Feng Lei , Ye Qingqing , Luo Yiming , Morad Yair , Li Jinrong , Yuan Jin
Published: December 2020

BackgroundTo compare visual acuity and CSF improvement with perceptual learning versus part-time patching in limbal dermoid children after keratoplasty.MethodsAll children in the limbal dermoid and normal group underwent visual acuity and CSF evaluation, and the normal group wore the optical defocus to simulate the corresponding visual acuity of the limbal dermoid group. Among the limbal dermoid children, 9 underwent perceptual learning(PL), and 8 underwent part-time patching for 6 months and were followed for 6 months to evaluate visual acuity and CSF.ResultsRegarding CSF, the area under log CSF (AULCSF) and the cutoff spatial frequency (cutoff SF) were obviously reduced in the limbal dermoid group compared with the optical defocus group and normal viewing group (1.29±0.27 vs 0.40±0.05 vs 0.70±0.05, and 5.38±0.75 vs 8.81±0.74 vs 14.81±0.89, all p value <0.05). Following PL, visual acuity increased from 0.63±0.11 to 0.32±0.09 (P=0.04) . Contrast sensitivity increased mainly in the low special frequencies as AULCSF improved from 0.49±0.15 to 0.73±0.18 (P=0.32), 0.78±0.21 (P=0.28), 0.80±0.19 (P=0.22) and 1.06±0.20 (P=0.04) from baseline to the 6th month in the PL group, while it remained unchanged in the part-time patching group.ConclusionsChildren suffering from limbal dermoid with amblyopia exhibited CSF deficits and perceptual learning was found to improve VA and CSF in the amblyopic eye better than patching.Trial registration﻿The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (PRS, ID NCT03447041).