bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Features of Plastic Bronchitis Related to Respiratory Tract Infection in 269 Children
Authors: cui xiaojian , Guo Wei , Zhao Lihua , Zhang Tongqiang , Zheng Jiafeng , Zhao Linsheng , Xu Yongsheng , Zhan Jianghua
Published: January 2022

Background. Plastic bronchitis (PB) is a pulmonary disease characterized by the formation of bronchial casts (BCs) that lead to airway blockage. The study aimed to investigate the clinical features of PB related to respiratory tract infection. Methods. A retrospective analysis was performed on data collected over a 5-year period (from January 2015 to December 2019) on children with PB (n=269). The clinical manifestations, laboratory data, imaging findings and management, were investigated. The single fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB, n=144) and multiple-treatment groups (n=125) were compared.Results. A total of 269 PB children were included with a mean age of 6.7 ± 2.8 years. The majority of cases (n=241, 89.6%) were diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumonia (MP) infection. The mean duration of fever and hospitalization was 10.6 ± 3.7 and 9.3 ± 3.2 days, respectively. All patients presented with cough and fever, 62 (23.0%) suffered from hypoxemia, and 144 (53.5%) had extrapulmonary complications. Higher levels of ESR, CRP, PCT, IL-6, LA, LDH, FER and D-dimer were observed. CT findings, including pulmonary consolidation, segmental or lobar atelectasis, pleural effusion and pleural thickening, were observed in 97.4%, 46.5%, 47.9% and 63.2% of cases, respectively. Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that N% >75.5%, LDH >598.5U/L, and D-dimer>1.2mg/L were independent risk factors for multiple therapeutic FOB. Conclusions. MP is a major pathogen responsible for PB in children. Patients with PB are more likely to experience persistent fever and excessive inflammation and have severe radiological findings. FOB is an effective treatment for patients with PB, and children may require multiple FOBs for cast removal. N% >75.5%, LDH >598.5U/L and D-dimer > 1.2mg/L are independent predictors of multiple FOB treatment.
Quantification and Forecasting of Cumulonimbus (Cb) Clouds Direction, Nebulosity and Occurrence With Autoregression Using 2018-2020 Dataset From Yaounde-nsimalen
Authors: Ringnwi Mbucksek Blaise , Augustin DAÏKA , Rodrigue TSEDEPNOU , André Bon Firmin , Natali Kossoumna Libaa
Published: January 2022

This works reports the quantification and forecasting of Cumulonimbus (Cb) clouds direction, nebulosity and occurrence with auto regression using 2018-2020 dataset from Yaoundé –Nsimalen of Cameroon. Data collected for October 2018-2020 consisted of 2232 hourly observations. Codes were written to automatically align, multi-find and replace data points in excel to facilitate treating big datasets. The approach included quantification of direction generating time series from data and determination of model orders using the correlogram. The coefficients of the SARIMA model were determined using Yule-Walker equations in matrix form, the Augmented Dickey Fuller test (ADF) was used to check for stationarity assumption, Portmanteau test to check for white noise in residuals and Shapiro-Wilk test to check normality assumptions. After writing several algorithms to test different models, an Autoregressive Neural Network (ANN) was fitted and used to predict the parameters over window of 2 weeks. Autocorrelation Function (ACF) shows no correlation between residuals, with p ≤ 0.05, fitting the stationarity assumption. Average performance is 80%. A stationary wavelike occurrence of the direction has been observed, with East as the most frequented sector. Forecast of Cb parameters is important in effective air traffic management, creating situational awareness and could serve as reference for future research. The method of decomposition could be made applicable in future research to quantify/forecast cloud directions.
Provable Advantage in Quantum Phase Learning via Quantum Kernel Alphatron
Authors: Yusen Wu , Wu Bujiao , Wang Jingbo , Yuan Xiao
Published: January 2022

The use of quantum computation to speed-up machine learning algorithms is among the most exciting prospective applications in the NISQ era. Here, we focus on the quantum phase learning problem, which is crucially important in understanding many-particle quantum systems. We prove that, under widely believed complexity theory assumptions, quantum phase learning problem cannot be efficiently solved by machine learning algorithms using classical resources and classical data. Whereas using quantum data, we prove the universality of quantum kernel Alphatron in efficiently predicting quantum phases, indicating clear quantum advantages in such learning problems. We numerically benchmark the algorithm for a variety of problems, including recognizing symmetry-protected topological phases and symmetry-broken phases. Our results highlight the capability of quantum machine learning in efficient prediction of quantum phases of many-particle systems.
Improved PBFT Algorithm For High-Frequency Trading Scenarios of Alliance Blockchain
Authors: Tang Song , Wang Zhiqiang , Jiang Jian , Ge Suli , Tan GaiFang
Published: January 2022

With the continuous development of blockchain technology and the emergence of application scenarios, consensus algorithms are still the bottleneck restricting the number of network nodes and data writing efficiency that blockchain can support. How to improve the performance of alliance blockchains safely and efficiently has become an urgent problem to be solved at present. For the practical Byzantine fault tolerance algorithm (PBFT) commonly used in alliance blockchains, there are some problems, such as large communication overhead, simple selection of master nodes, and inability to expand and exit nodes dynamically in the network. This paper proposes an improved algorithm tPBFT (trust-based practical Byzantine algorithm), which is suitable for the high-frequency transaction scenario of alliance chains and introduces a trust interest scoring mechanism between network nodes to adjust the list of consensus nodes dynamically, simplify the PBFT consensus process and reduce the interaction overhead between network nodes. Theoretical analysis and experiments show that the improved tPBFT algorithm can effectively reduce the amount of information interaction between nodes, improve consensus efficiency and support more network nodes.
A Study of (2+1)-Dimensional Konopelchenko-Dubrovsky (KD) System: Closed-Form Solutions, Solitary Waves, Bifurcation Analysis and Quasi-Periodic Solution
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Mann Nikita , Kharbanda Harsha
Published: January 2022

Nonlinear evolution equations (NLEEs) are extensively used to establish the elementary propositions of natural circumstances. In this work, we study the Konopelchenko-Dubrovsky (KD) equation which depicts non-linear waves in mathematical physics with weak dispersion. The considered model is investigated using the combination of generalized exponential rational function (GERF) method and dynamical system method. The GERF method is utilized to generate closedform invariant solutions to the (2+1)-dimensional KD model in terms of trigonometric, hyperbolic, and exponential forms with the assistance of symbolic computations. Moreover, three-dimensional graphics are displayed to depict the behavior of obtained solitary wave solutions. The model is observed to have single and multiple soliton profiles, kink-wave profiles, and periodic oscillating nonlinear waves. These generated solutions have never been published in the literature. All the newly generated soliton solutions are checked by putting them back into the associated system with the soft computation via Wolfram Mathematica. Moreover, the system is converted into a planer dynamical system using a certain transformation and the analysis of bifurcation is examined. Furthermore, the quasi-periodic solution is investigated numerically for the perturbed system by inserting definite periodic forces into the considered model. With regard to the parameter of the perturbed model, two-dimensional and three-dimensional phase portraits are plotted.
Cross Cultural Adaptation and Validation of Hindi Version of WHOQOL-BREF in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Makkar Jeetinder Kaur , Goyal Ankita , Sharma Rajni , Kumar Vishal , Ghai Babita , Prinja Shankar , Singh Narinder Pal
Published: January 2022

Aim of the study was to validate Hindi version of WHOQOL-BREF in chronic low back pain patients (CLBP). In this cross-sectional study, 111 patients with CLBP were recruited. In addition to demographic information, two questionnaires Hi WHOQOL-BREF and SF-36 (Reference scale) were administered at day 0 and day 3. NRS was used for pain evaluation. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used for scale reliability. Construct validity was analysed using Pearson correlation coefficient. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to determine the relationships between the eight domains of SF-36 and four domains of the WHOQOL-BREF.Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were acceptable for all domains of both Hi WHOQOL-BREF (0.869 - 0.938) and SF-36 (0.752 - 0.943) questionnaires. Pearson correlation coefficients of both instruments were partly to strongly correlate with most domains (r ≥0.40). Correlations for domains with similar constructs were stronger than those measuring varied constructs. Confirmatory factor analysis recommended approximately good relationships among the SF-36 and WHOQOL-BREF domains. Our study suggests that WHOQOL-BREF Hindi version is a reliable and valid tool for clinical and research use in CLBP.
General and Paediatric Dentists’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding the use of Silver Diammine Fluoride for the Management of Dental Caries: A National Survey in the Netherlands
Authors: Schroë Sofie C.H. , Bonifacio Clarissa C. , Bruers Josef J. , Innes Nicola P. T. , Hesse Daniela
Published: January 2022

Background: Silver Diammine Fluoride (SDF) is a topical medication used to arrest cavitated carious lesions non-invasively. The primary aim of this research was to investigate, and analyse the relationships between; knowledge, attitudes and practices (including barriers and facilitators) as they relate to SDF use for the management of dental caries by general dental practitioners (GDPs) and paediatric dentists (PDs) in the Netherlands. A secondary aim was to explore any differences between these groups.Methods: A sample of 600 Dutch GDPs (random selection from 9,777 registered) and all 57 registered PDs were invited to participate in this cross-sectional survey, consisting of four sections: 1) participant characteristics, 2) knowledge (through responses to summative questions), 3) attitudes (through agreements using 5-point Likert scale), and 4) practices, use, barriers and facilitators (through multiple choice questions). Results: Response rates were: GDPs 23% (n=140) and PDs 47% (n=27). Knowledge: out of 15 questions testing understanding of SDF, the mean correct answers were GDPs 6.7; SD 2.6 and PDs 7.4, SD 2.2 (no statistically significant differences). Mean overall attitude score showed positivity towards SDF use in both groups. Compared to GDPs, PDs were more likely to use SDF (p<0.001) and expected this to increase (p=0.03). The main barrier for users was parental acceptance (47%) and for non-users it was lack of knowledge (60%). The main facilitator for both users and non-users was gaining knowledge through courses and workshops, followed by written information leaflets about SDF for parents.Conclusions: Less than half knowledge questions about SDF were answered correctly. Despite low knowledge, attitude towards its use was positive. Practitioners believed that its use would be facilitated by professionals having more accessible information and training and by the availability of parent information leaflets. SDF was used more frequently by PDs than GDPs.
An Early Prediction and Classification of Lung Nodule Diagnosis on CT Images Based on Hybrid Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Gugulothu Vijay Kumar , Balaji Savadam
Published: January 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Study on Dust Migration Law and Spray Dedusting Technology in Parallel Double Belt Transportation
Authors: Jing Deji , Jiang Zhuo , Ma Mingxing , Zhang Tian , Liu Hongwei , Yu Tao
Published: January 2022

To effectively solve the problem of dust pollution caused by the parallel double-belt transportation of coal in a coal preparation plant, taking the Huangyuchuan coal preparation plant as an example, a numerical model of the air flow-dust distribution was established by means of simulation. The flow lines between the strips of tape and the tail of the tape machine will gather, and there will be backflow on the right side of the 3001 tape and left side of the 3002 tape. Under the action of wind current, most of the dust particles larger than 10 μm are distributed in the range of 0~5 m on both sides of the tape; dust particles smaller than 10 μm spread to the entire preparation workshop. Combined with field test verification, dust pollution is mainly concentrated at the guide trough, the feed inlet, the rear of the machine, and the joint of the belt corridor. Based on this, a targeted spray dust reduction treatment plan is proposed. By measuring the dust concentration before and after the treatment of dust-polluted areas, it is proven that the dust reduction efficiency of this plan can reach more than 90%.
Melatonin, an Endogenous Hormone, Modulates Th17 Cells via the Reactive Oxygen Species/TXNIP/HIF-1α Axis to Alleviate Autoimmune Uveitis
Authors: Liang Dan , Huang Jun , Li Zhuang , Hu Yunwei , Li Zuoyi , Xie Yanyan , Huang Haixiang , Chen Qian , Chen Guanyu , Zhu Wenjie , Chen Yuxi , Su Wenru , Chen Xiaoqing
Published: January 2022

Background

Melatonin, an indoleamine produced by the pineal gland, plays a pivotal role in maintaining circadian rhythm homeostasis. Recently, the strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of melatonin have attracted attention of researchers. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of melatonin in experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), which is a representative animal model of human autoimmune uveitis.
Methods

EAU was induced in mice via immunization with the peptide interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein 1-20 (IRBP1−20). melatonin was then administered via intraperitoneal injection to induce protection against EAU. With EAU induction for 14 days, clinical and histopathological scores were employed to evaluate the disease progression. T lymphocytes accumulation, the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the retinas were assessed via flow cytometry and RT-PCR. In vivo and in vitro experiments, T helper 1 (Th1), T helper 17 (Th17) and regulatory T (Treg) cells were detected via flow cytometry, the level reactive oxygen species(ROS) from CD4+ cells were tested via flow cytometry, and the expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α)proteins were also quantified via western blot analysis, to elucidate the mechanism of melatonin inhibiting EAU.
Results

Melatonin treatment resulted in notable attenuation of ocular inflammation in EAU mice, evidenced by decreasing optic disc edema, few signs of retinal vasculitis, and minimal retinal and choroidal infiltrates. Mechanistic studies revealed that melatonin restricted the proliferation of peripheral Th1 and Th17 cells and potentiated Treg cells by suppressing their transcription factors. In vitro studies corroborated that melatonin restrains the polarization of retina-specific T cells towards Th17 and Th1 cells in addition to enhancing the proportion of Treg cells. Pretreatment of retina-specific T cells with melatonin failed to induce EAU in naïve recipients. Furthermore, the ROS/ TXNIP/ HIF-1α pathway was shown to mediate the therapeutic effect of melatonin in EAU.
Conclusions

Melatonin regulates autoimmune T cells by restraining effector T cells and facilitating Treg generation, indicating that melatonin could be a hopeful treatment alternative for autoimmune uveitis.
Energy, Conventional and Advanced Exergy Analysis of Low Temperature Geothermal Binary-flashing Cycle Using Zeotropic Mixtures
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Du Bowen , Chen Shunyi , Zhao Jun , Wang Lingbao
Published: January 2022

Due to deep utilization of geobrine and high net power output, binary flashing cycle (BFC) is deemed to be the future geothermal energy power generation technology. The BFC using R245/R600a zeotropic mixtures is presented in this paper. The thermodynamic model of the system is built, and energy, conventional and advanced exergy analysis are carried out, to reveal the real optimization potential. It is demonstrated that the optimal composition mass fraction of R245fa and dryness of working fluid at the evaporator outlet ranges are 0.30~0.50 and 0.40~0.60, considering the thermodynamic performance and the flammability of the mixtures, simultaneously. Conventional exergy analysis indicates that the maximum exergy destruction occurs in condenser, followed by expander, evaporator, flashing tank, preheater, high-pressure pump and low-pressure pump. While the advanced exergy analysis reveals that the expander should be given the first priority for optimization, followed by condenser and evaporator. The BFC has a large potential for improvement due to higher avoidable exergy destruction, about 48.6% of the total system exergy destruction can be reduced. And the interconnections among system components are not very strong, owing to small exogenous exergy destructions. It also demonstrates the effectiveness of advanced exergy analysis, and the approach can be extended to other energy conversion systems to maximize the energy and exergy savings for sustainable development.
Risk Factors for Placental Malaria, Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine Doses, and Birth Outcomes in a Rural to Urban Prospective Cohort Study on the Bandiagara Escarpment and Bamako, Mali
Authors: Vincenz Claudius , Dolo Zachary , Saye Serou , Lovett Jennie , Lieberman Richard W. , Strassmann Beverly I.
Published: January 2022

BackgroundMalaria in Mali remains a primary cause of morbidity and mortality, with women at high risk during pregnancy for placental malaria (PM). We evaluated risk for PM and its association with birth outcomes in a rural to urban longitudinal cohort on the Bandiagara Escarpment and the District of Bamako. MethodsWe collected placental samples (N = 317) from 249 mothers who were participants in our longitudinal cohort study. A placental pathologist and research assistant evaluated the samples by histology in blinded fashion to assess PM infection stage and parasite density. We used generalized estimating equations (GEE) to model the odds of PM infection.ResultsPregnancies in Bamako, beyond secondary education, births in the rainy season (instead of the hot dry season), births in later years of the study, and births to women who had > 3 doses of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) instead of no doses of SP were associated with reduced odds of experiencing PM (active and past infections combined). We found improved birth outcomes (+ 285 g birth weight, + 2 cm birth length, + 75 g placental weight) for women who had > 3 doses of SP compared to no doses, but did not detect a difference in birth weight or length for women who had 2 instead of > 3 SP doses. However, at 2 instead of > 3 doses placentas were 36 g lighter and the odds of low birth weight (< 2500 g) were 14% higher. Severe parasite densities were significantly associated with decreases in birth weight, birth length, and placental weight, as were chronic PM infections. The women who received no SP during pregnancy (7% of the study total) were younger and lacked primary school education. The women who received ≥ 3 doses of SP came from more affluent families.ConclusionsWomen who received no doses of SP during pregnancy experienced the most disadvantageous birth outcomes in both Bamako and on the Bandiagara Escarpment. Such women tended to be younger and to have had no primary school education. Targeting such women for antenatal care, which is the setting at which SP is most commonly administered in Mali, will have a more positive impact on public health than focusing on the increment from two to three doses of SP.
Optimization of Pre-treatment Using RSM on Wheat Straw and Production of Lactic Acid Using Thermotolerant, Inhibitor Tolerant and Xylose Utilizing Bacillus Sonorenesis Strain DGS15
Authors: Chawla Simarpreet Kaur , Goyal Dinesh
Published: January 2022

Thermotolerant lactic acid producing bacteria, isolated from red soil of brick kiln was identified by 16S rRNA sequencing as Bacillus sonorenesis , which showed remarkable capability to ferment sugars of lignocellulosic biomass after pre-treatment, yielding 0.97 g/g lactic acid with overall productivity of 0.38 g L -1/ h. RSM was employed to optimize the sulphuric acid pre-treatment combined with dilute NaOH and hot water pre-treatment. Pretreated wheat straw biomass had 40.4% cellulose, 18.4% hemicellulose, 12.4% lignin and 28.2 g L -1 reducing sugar, while native wheat straw biomass had 36% cellulose, 25% hemicellulose, 20% total lignin, and 0.94 g L -1 reducing sugar. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the ordered and compact structure of wheat straw was destroyed upon pre-treatment. X-ray diffractogram (XRD) revealed 9.71% increase in crystallinity index ( CrI ) in pretreated biomass. FTIR spectrogram showed removal of lignin due to reduction of peak at 1640 cm -1 in pretreated biomass. Bacillus sonorenesis DGS15 is inhibitor tolerant (furfural (1.2 g L -1 ) and HMF (2.4 g L -1 )). Furfural was consumed after 72 h of fermentation and HMF got accumulated with 3.75-fold increase in concentration in the fermentation broth. In terms of final concentration, yield, and fermentation duration, this is the best performance of DGS15 for lactic acid production utilizing xylose, glucose as the carbon source. All of these findings showed that the thermotolerant Bacillus sonorenesis strain DGS15 is a novel, attractive candidate for producing lactic acid from lignocellulosic biomass.
Assessing The Inflammatory Severity of The Terminal Ileum In Crohn Disease Using Radiomics Based On MRI
Authors: Ding Honglei , Li Jiaying , Jiang Kefang , Gao Chen , Lu Liangji , Zhang Huani , Zhou Kefeng , Chen Haibo , Gao Xuning , Sun Zhichao
Published: January 2022

Background: Evaluating inflammatory severity using imaging is essential for Crohn’s disease (CD), but it is limited by potential interobserver variation and subjectivity. We compared the efficiency of magnetic resonance index of activity (MaRIA) collected by radiologists and a radiomics model in assessing the inflammatory severity of terminal ileum (TI).Methods: 121 patients were collected from two centers. Patients were divided into ulcerative group and mucosal remission group based on the TI Crohn's disease Endoscopic Severity Index (tCDEIS). The consistency of bowel wall thickness (BWT), relative contrast enhancement (RCE), edema, ulcer, MaRIA and features of the region of interest (ROI) between radiologists were described by weighted k coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and developed receiver operating curve (ROC) of MaRIA. The radiomics model was established using reproducible features of logistic regression based on arterial staging of T1WI sequences. Delong test was used to compare radiomics with MaRIA.Results: The consistency between radiologists were moderate in BWT (ICC=0.638), fair in edema (k=0.541), RCE (ICC=0.461), MaRIA (ICC=0.579) and poor in ulcer (k=0.271). Radiomics model was developed by 6 reproducible features (ICC=0.93-0.96) and equivalent to MaRIA which evaluated by the senior radiologist(0.872 vs 0.883 in training group, 0.824 vs 0.783 in testing group, P=0.847, 0.471), both of which were significant higher than MaRIA evaluated by junior radiologist(AUC: 0.621 in training group, 0.557 in testing group, all, PB0.05).
Of Lemmings and Mussels: Trophic Cascade Drives Population Dynamics of Long-Tailed Ducks Breeding in Siberia
Authors: Rintala Jukka , Hario M. , Laursen K. , Møller A. P.
Published: January 2022

Migratory animals experience very different environmental conditions at different times of the year, i.e., at the breeding grounds, during migration, and in winter. The long-tailed duck Clangula hyemalis breeds in the Arctic regions of the northern hemisphere and migrates to temperate climate zones, where it winters in marine environments. The breeding success of the long-tailed duck is affected by the abundances of predators (mainly Arctic fox Alopex lagopus) and their main prey species, lemmings Lemmus sibiricus and Dicrostonyx torquatus, whose population fluctuation is subject to climate change. In the winter quarters, long-tailed ducks mainly eat the blue mussel Mytilus edulis. We examined how North-west Siberian lemming dynamics affect long-tailed duck breeding success via predation pressure and how nutrient availability in the Baltic Sea influences long-tailed duck population size via mussel biomass and quality. The long-tailed duck population dynamics was predator-driven on the breeding grounds and resource-driven on the wintering grounds. Nutrients from fertilizer runoff from farmland stimulate mussel stocks and quality, supporting high long-tailed duck population sizes. The applied hierarchical analysis combining several trophic levels can be used for evaluating large-scale environmental factors that affect the population dynamics and abundance of migrants from one environment to another.
Urethral Discharge as A Novel Manifestation of Urinary Tract Infection in Children ≤24 Months Old
Authors: FANG NAIWEN , Ou Shih-Hsiang , Yu-shan Huang , Chiou Yee-Hsuan
Published: January 2022

Background: Children with urinary tract infections (UTIs) are prone to kidney scarring if they are not treated promptly; however, ambiguous symptoms before fever onset makes the early detection of UTIs difficult. Our study aimed to identify urethral discharge as an early manifestation in children with UTI. Methods: This study enrolled 678 children younger than 24 months with paired urinalysis and culture performed between 2015 and 2021; 544 children were diagnosed with UTIs. Clinical symptoms, urinalysis, and paired urine culture results were compared. Results: Urethral discharge was observed in 5.1% of children with UTI and yielded a specificity of 92.5% for diagnosing UTI. Children with urethral discharge had a less severe UTI course, furthermore, nine of them received antibiotics before fever occurred and seven of them were free of fever during UTI course. Urethral discharge was associated with alkalotic urine and Klebsiella pneumonia infection.Conclusions: Urethral discharge is an early symptom in children with UTI; it may present before fever onset and help ensure prompt antibiotic intervention.Trial registration: Not applicable.
Indication of Treatment For Children And Adolescents With Postural Tachycardia Syndrome By Intravenous Saline Infusion
Authors: Yanagimoto Yoshitoki , Ishizaki Yuko , Nakai Yoko , Minami Miki , Tamai Rinako , Inoue Kumiko , Masuda Naoya , Kaneko Kazunari
Published: January 2022

Background: Intravenous saline infusion is considered effective for the treatment of postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in adults. However, few studies have assessed the efficacy of intravenous saline infusion for POTS in children and adolescents. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous saline infusion in children and adolescents with POTS.Methods: A total of 107 children with POTS (median age: 13 years, range: 10–15 years) were enrolled. Eighty-eight children were in the intravenous saline infusion group and 19 children were in the comparison group. Blood pressure (BP) and pulse rate (PR) were recorded before and after standing. A standing test was performed early in the morning for 2 consecutive days. A volume of 1.5 L of saline was administered intravenously to each participant in the intervention group for a mean duration of 17 hours between the two standing tests.Results: The mean change in PR was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the comparison group during the second test (36.9 vs. 52.8 beats/minute, p<0.001). Additionally, the mean change in PR was significantly lower in the second test than in the first test (44.7 beats/minute) in the intervention group (p<0.001). However, the mean change in systolic BP was not different before and after intravenous saline infusion between the two groups or between the two tests in each group.Conclusion: Intravenous saline infusion reduces the increased PR on standing in children with POTS. Intravenous saline infusion improves tachycardia in children with POTS when standing.
The circular economy can have oligarchic tendencies in socially-unequal countries: evidence from Chile.
Authors: Pérez Andrea Espinoza , Valenzuela-Levi Nicolas , Vásquez Óscar C.
Published: January 2022

The Sustainable Development Goals include both increasing recycling rates and reducing socioeconomic inequalities. However, existent research lacks attention to the link between advancing towards the circular economy and concentration of wealth and political power. This article analyzes the case of Chile, one of the most income-unequal countries in the world, which between 2014 and 2020 implemented a registry of polluters, an extended producer responsibility legislation, and called for elections to establish a Constitutional Convention to set a new rule of law for the country. The authors of this study innovate by analyzing both economic concentration and political linkages among waste valorization companies. The results show a tendency towards higher concentration in already concentrated waste markets, and a continuous rise in the share of the valorisation market by politically-linked companies. The coexistence of oligopoly, oligopsony and oligarchic tendencies should be considered when analyzing the circular economy in other countries.
Analysis of Coronal And Sagittal Spinopelvic Parameters In Developmental Dysplasia of The Hip
Authors: Zhang Guangyang , Li Mufan , Qian Hang , Wang Xu , Dang Xiaoqian , Liu Ruiyu
Published: January 2022

Background: The observational study aimed to investigate the change and correlations of the spinopelvic parameters as well as the relationships with the related symptoms in unilateral developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) patients. Methods: The clinical data of 22 unilateral DDH patients and 20 healthy volunteers were collected from 2016 to 2021. All patients and volunteers were taken the antero-posterior pelvic radiograph and the frontal and lateral radiography of the whole spine as a routine examination. And the clinical symptoms, signs and functions were measured according to Oswestry Disability Index and Low Back Pain Scoring System. Then the t test and Pearson correlation were used to analyze the data. Results: The Cobb(8.68±6.21°), L3(4.79±5.47°), CB(1.65±1.57cm), PT(15.02±9.55°) and TLK (7.69±6.66°) were significantly larger in the DDH patients, whereas LL(37.41±17.17°) were significantly smaller (P＜0.05). As for the coronal spinopelvic parameters, CB was found to be associated with L3 (R=0.58, P＜0.01). Of the sagittal spinopelvic parameters, SS was found to be associated with LL (R=0.48, P=0.02), and TLK was found to be related to ST and TK, respectively (R=0.49, P=0.02; R=-0.45, P=0.04). In terms of relations between the spinal and pelvic parameters, PI were found to be related to the SS (R=0.58, P＜0.01). An analysis of relations revealed a correlation between the Oswestry Disability Index and Cobb(R=0.59, P＜0.01), PT(R=0.49, P=0.02), TK(R=-0.46, P=0.03) and TLK(R=0.44, P=0.04). Furthermore, an analysis of relations revealed a correlation between Low Back Pain Scoring System and Cobb (R=-0.44, P=0.04), L3(R=-0.53, P=0.01), PT (R=-0.44, P=0.04), TK(R=0.46, P=0.03) and TLK(R=-0.43, P=0.05). Conclusion: The parameters are related to each other and compensate each other to maintain the balance of the coronal and sagittal planes of the spine. In addition, the change of some parameters is closely related to the quality of life of the patients, and can provide some clues for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of DDH.
The Synergy Beteeen Diurnal Temperature Range and Calcium Concentration Help to Predict Hospital Mortality in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Gu Xingbo , liu dandan , Hao ning , Sun xinyong , Duan xiaoxu , yang shuang , li jia , Wang Shu , liu shulei
Published: January 2022

Epidemiological studies have suggested that cold is an important contributor to acute cardiovascular events and mortality. However, little is known about the Diurnal Temperature Range(DTR)impact on mortality of the patients with myocardial infarction.Calcium ions(Ca2+)play a vital role in the human body, such as cardiac electrophysiology and contraction.To investigate whether DTR on admission moderates the association between serum calcium and in-hospital mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction(AMI). This retrospective study enrolled consecutive adult patients with AMI at a single center in China (2003–2012). Patients were divided into four groups (Ca-Q1–4) according to serum calcium concentration quartiles. Multivariate logistic regression modeling was used to assess whether DTR moderated the association between serum calcium and in-hospital mortality. The predictive value of serum calcium was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and net reclassification improvement (NRI) analyses.The study included 3780 patients.In-hospital mortality was 4.97%(188/3780).DTR moderated the association between serum calcium and in-hospital mortality(P-interaction=0.020).Patients with low serum calcium in the highest DTR quartile exhibited an increased risk of in-hospital mortality(odds ratio for Ca-Q4 vs.Ca-Q1, 0.03;95%confidence interval[95%CI], 0.01–0.20;P for trend<0.001).In the highest DTR quartile, adding serum calcium concentration to the risk factor model increased the area under the ROC curve(0.81 vs.0.76;P<0.001)and increased NRI by 20.2%(95%CI 7.5–32.9;P=0.001).Low serum calcium was an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality in patients with AMI, and this association was moderated by DTR.Careful attention should be paid to patients with low serum calcium who experience a higher DTR on admission.
Tumor Tissue-Specific Bacterial Biomarker Panel for Colorectal Cancer: Bacteroides Massiliensis, Alistipes Species, Alistipes Onderdonkii, Bifidobacterium Pseudocatenulatum, Corynebacterium Appendicis
Authors: Hasan Rizwana , Roy Rahul , Paul Debarati , Rawat Saumitra , Nilwe Pravin , Chauhan Neeraj K , Bose Sudeep , Choudhury Sangeeta
Published: January 2022

Human microbiome studies have shown diversity to exist among different ethnic populations. However, studies pertaining to the microbial composition of CRC among the Indian population have not been well explored. We aimed to decipher the microbial signature in tumor tissues from North Indian CRC patients. Next-generation sequencing of tumor and adjacent tissue derived bacterial 16s rRNA V3-V4 hypevariable regions was performed to investigate the abundance of specific microbes. The expression profile analysis deciphered a decreased diversity among the tumor-associated microbial communities, and at the phyla level, Proteobacteria was differentially expressed in CRC tissues than adjacent normal. Further, DESeq2 normalization identified 4 out of 79 distinct species (p<0.005) only in CRC, Bacteroides massiliensis, Alistipes onderdonkii, Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, and Corynebacterium appendicis. Thus, our findings suggest the use of these microbial signatures as putative biomarkers that can distinguish CRC tissues from their adjacent normal, which may shed light on the pathogenesis of CRC.
Analysis of The Phase Velocities of (Pure, Slow And Fast ) Alfvèn Waves In The E Region of The Ionosphere For Low Latitudes
Authors: kurt kadri
Published: January 2022

In this paper, (pure, slow, and fast) Alfvèn waves for the accepted conditions in Northern-hemisphere at E-region of ionospheric plasma were calculated with low latitudes by using Eq. (20,25-26) and the real geometry of Earth’s magnetic field, at hours 12.00 LT for the 1990 year which sunspot is maximum. One of the most important results of this study is to show analytically that the “MHD modes= (pure, slow and fast) Alfvèn waves” depend not only on the angle between the wave propagation vector (k) and the magnetic field (B) but also on the declination (D=It is the angle value between the direction of the sun's rays and the equatorial plane) and magnetic dip angle (I=It is the angle between real north and magnetic north). From the results obtained, the behavior of the magnitudes of the squares of the phase velocities of all MHD modes is consistent with the behavior of the distribution of electron density with low geographic latitude, even if the magnetic field vector is both perpendicular and parallel to the propagation vector of the wave. In parallel, the phase velocities of the waves are greater in summer than in winter. It has been determined that the propagation velocities of the fast and slow MHD mode in the magnetic equatorial trough region at (q = I) are very small, the energy is almost non-existent, but if q = 90 + I, the energy increases with latitude and is approximately maximum at the low latitude limit. It can be said that the minimum points are between 0-10 oN latitudes where the wave energies are the smallest, and the maximum points are between 20-30 oN latitudes the wave energies are the biggest.
Autochthonous Transmission of Angiostrongylus Cantonensis in a Domestic Rabbit (Oryctolagus Cuniculus) in Hawai`i: Detection in Multiple Tissues Using AcanITS1 and AcanR3990 PCR Assays
Authors: Jarvi Susan , Snook Kirsten , Mina Alfred , Lyons Malia , Ortega Sarah , Sears William , Johnson Angelina
Published: January 2022

Background: Hawaii is the hotspot for rat lungworm disease (angiostrongyliasis) caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis in the USA. In humans, PCR of the CSF is typically used for diagnosis, however, collection of CSF requires hospitalization. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of two different PCR tests to detect A.cantonensis DNA in multiple tissues including blood from a rabbit presumably infected by eating contaminated lettuce. Methods: Two different PCR assays (AcanR3990, and AcanITS1) were used comparatively to test DNA extracted from slug and rabbit tissues. Assays were conducted using established protocols and were run in triplicate, with negative (dH20) controls included throughout. Results: A juvenile Parmarian martensi (semi-slug) found in local lettuce tested positive for the presence of Angiostrongylus cantonensis DNA. A family and their two domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) consumed this lettuce twice within the five days preceding testing. One rabbit exhibited symptoms consistent with eosinophilic meningitis 3-6 days after being fed the lettuce. Appropriate veterinary treatment was ineffective and the rabbit was subsequently euthanized. This study comparatively applies two different PCR assays to detect A. cantonensis DNA in the peripheral blood, cerebrospinal fluid, brain, heart, and lung tissue of this rabbit, and provides data implicating parasite transmission via contaminated home-grown lettuce. Six of the nine brain DNA samples, as well as the CSF sample, tested positive in replicate or triplicate for A. cantonensis DNA with both PCR assays. The AcanR3990 assay also detected A. cantonensis DNA from the lung, heart septum, all nine samples from the brain, and blood products (plasma, EDTA-treated whole blood, and buffy coat/red blood cells) in replicate or triplicate.
68Ga-FAPI-04 PET Distinguishes Malignancy from Inflammatory Lesions
Authors: Shangguan Chengfang , Yang Chen , Shi Zhaopeng , Miao Ying , Hai Wangxi , Shen Yan , Qu Qing , Li Biao , Mi Jun
Published: January 2022

Background
The 68Ga-labelled FAPI provides new oncology imaging option other than 18F-FDG-PET. However, it's unclear about whether the FAPI-PET distinguishes malignancy from benign lesions.
Methods
We established an AOM/DSS-induced rat colorectal tumor model. A double PET/CT tracer of 68Ga-FAPI-04 and 18F-FDG was used in the rat colorectal tumor model. Histological examination, immunohistochemistry staining, and radioautography were performed in this study.
Results
68Ga-FAPI PET imaging distinguishes neoplasia from inflammatory lesions in an AOM/DSS-induced rat colorectal tumor model, and FAPI accumulation gradually increases along with tumor progression. An inflammatory lesion did not interfere with 68Ga-FAPI PET imaging.
Conclusion
The 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET distinguishes malignant tumors from inflammatory lesions by detecting FAP in a rat colorectal tumor model, suggesting that 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET is a better diagnostic tool than 18F-FDG PET, at least to colorectal cancer patients.
A Novel E3-ubiquitin Ligase-Related LncRNA Signature for Predicting Prognosis in Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Tao , Chen Lan , Huang Xiu-Yi , Dai Shuang , Ren Tao , Luo Feng
Published: January 2022

Background: E3 ubiquitin ligase mRNA plays an important role in mediating tumor microenvironment, and is involved in tumor initiation and progression. However, few studies have realized the value of E3 ubiquitin ligase-related lncRNAs in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).Methods: Herein, we comprehensively evaluated the E3-ubiquitination patterns including multiple tumor-related molecular phenotypes in LUAD samples using lncRNA profiling from GEO and TCGA database, identified a survival-related risk signature consisting of E3-ubiquitin ligase-related lncRNAs via LASSO and multivariate stepwise Cox regression analysis. Based on the risk score calculated for each sample, LUAD patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups. The predictive value of the signature in overall survival was explored, and a nomogram integrating the risk signature and clinical characteristics was identified and tested. Results: A risk signature consisting of 7 specific E3-ubiquitin ligase-related lncRNAs was screened, and can be viewed as a reliable independent predictor of prognosis. We performed consensus clustering analysis and successfully identified 4 molecular subtypes significantly linked to the OS of LUAD, which validates the prognostic and predictive value of this signature to some extent. The ssGESA analysis revealed that the high-risk group was bound up closely with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, hypoxia, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, and had a worse outcome. Moreover, we created a nomogram consisting of pathological staging and risk score. Validation analysis demonstrated high conformity of nomogram predictive probability and actual overall survival in LUAD of TCGA and GEO datasets.Conclusion: The model consisting of specific E3-ubiquitin ligase-related lncRNAs contributes to predicting the prognosis of LUAD patients.
Impact of Aspartate Aminotransferase–to–platelet Ratio Index Based Score to Assess Posthepatectomy Liver Failure in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcninoma
Authors: Yugawa Kyohei , Maeda Takashi , Nagata Shigeyuki , Shiraishi Jin , Sakai Akihiro , Yamaguchi Shohei , Konishi Kozo , Hashimoto Kenkichi
Published: January 2022

Background: Posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is a life-threatening complication following hepatic resection. The aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) is a noninvasive model for assessing the liver functional reserve in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to establish a scoring model to stratify patients with HCC at risk for PHLF.Methods: This single-center retrospective study included 451 patients who underwent hepatic resection for HCC between 2004 and 2017. Preoperative factors, including noninvasive liver fibrosis markers and intraoperative factors, were evaluated. The predictive impact for PHLF was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of these factors.Results: Of 451 patients, 30 (6.7%) developed severe PHLF (grade B/C). Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that APRI, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, operating time, and intraoperative blood loss were significantly associated with severe PHLF. A scoring model (over 0–4 points) was calculated using these optimal cutoff values. The area under the ROC curve of the established score for severe PHLF was 0.88, which greatly improved the predictive accuracy compared with these factors alone (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusions: The scoring model-based APRI, MELD score, operating time, and intraoperative blood loss can predict severe PHLF in patients with HCC.
Clomiphene citrate plus letrozole versus clomiphene citrate alone for ovulation induction in infertile women with chronic anovulation: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chera-aree Pattraporn , Tanpong Sirikul , Thanaboonyawat Isarin , Laokirkkiat Pitak
Published: January 2022

Objective
To compare the efficacy of combination clomiphene citrate (CC) plus letrozole with that of CC alone for ovulation induction in infertile women with chronic anovulation.
Material and methods
This randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand during the August 2020-September 2021 study period. Anovulatory women aged 18-40 years were equally allocated into either the CC 50 mg plus letrozole 2.5 mg once daily group or the CC 50 mg once daily group. The study drugs were administered on days 3-7 of each study patient’s menstrual cycle. The primary outcome was the ovulation rate defined by serum progesterone >3 ng/mL at mid-luteal phase. The secondary outcomes were menstrual cycle characteristics, endometrial thickness, conception rate, and adverse events.
Results
One hundred women (50 per group) were enrolled. The mean age and prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome were non-significantly different between groups. The ovulation rate according to intention-to-treat analysis was 78% and 70% in the combination and CC alone groups, respectively (p>0.05). There was no significant difference between groups for either mean endometrial thickness or number of dominant follicles. No serious adverse events were observed in either group.
Conclusion
There was no significant difference between combination CC plus letrozole and CC alone relative to their ability to induce ovulation in infertile women with chronic anovulation. The small number of live births (1 per group) was too low to be statistically analyzed.