bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased stride variability may predict lower leg overuse injuries among infantry soldiers
Authors: Nesterovica Darja , Vaivads Normunds , Stepens Ainars
Published: August 2022

Background A high incidence of lower leg overuse injury has been observed among military populations. Footwear usage could be promising in reducing the risk of injury from overuse of the lower extremities. The purpose of this study was to identify possible gait-related risk factors for lower leg overuse injuries when walking barefoot and in military boots. MethodsCases (n=32) were active-duty infantry soldiers from Latvian Land Forces with a history of overuse injury during the last 6 months of service before entering the study. During the study period, the cases recovered completely from the injury, did not report any functional limits, and were able to participate in all kinds of physical activities. Controls (n=32) of the same age and gender were free of injury in the same time period. Study participants were instructed to walk on a 5-meter walkway in the gait laboratory. Joint angle calculations and spatiotemporal gait parameters were evaluated for barefoot and shod conditions.Results Gait-related parameters during shod and barefoot conditions differ in both groups. The barefoot stride time and the stride time variability were statistically different between cases and controls. Conditional regression analysis showed that stride time variability during barefoot gait statistically significantly predicted the risk of lower leg overuse injury. ROC analysis showed an AUC of 0.77 (p<0.01; 95% CI 0.65-0.88), a sensitivity of 56%, and a specificity of 88%, with an optimal cut-off value for stride time variability of 1.95%.ConclusionsThe risk of injury was independent of the gait-related characteristics during shod gait. Stride time variability has low sensitivity, but if the variability value during the barefoot walk is less than 1.95%, it can be considered a negative risk factor for lower leg overuse injury among infantry soldiers.
Acupuncture efficacy for fibromyalgia in the framework of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine: results of a pragmatic open-label study
Authors: Carlo Marco Di , Beci Giacomo , Cipolletta Edoardo , Salaffi Fausto
Published: August 2022

Background.
Acupuncture is an effective therapy in chronic pain that can be recommended in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). However, the symptomatological expressiveness of FM is very wide, and to date, there is no ideal patient who is a suitable candidate for acupuncture therapy. In a high-prevalence disease such as FM, in the absence of well-codified treatment patterns, being able to apply the rationale of predictive, preventive and personalized medicine (PPPM/3PM) is crucial to avoid unnecessary expense and burden on patients. The aim of this study, in the context of PPPM/3PM, is to identify the predictive factors of failure to acupuncture in order to identify the ideal FM patient to be directed to such treatment.
Methods.
FM patients with severe symptoms refractory to standard drug therapy underwent eight weekly acupuncture sessions. Significant improvement, defined as a reduction of at least 30% of the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR), was assessed at the end of the eight weeks (T1) of treatment and three months after the end of treatment (T2). Univariate analysis was conducted to identify predictors of significant improvement at T1 and T2. Variables, which resulted significantly associated with clinical improvement at univariate analysis, were included in multivariate models.
Results.
Analyses were conducted on 77 patients (9 males, 11.7%). At T1, significant improvement in FIQR was recorded in 34 out of 77 patients (44.2%). At T2, significant improvement in FIQR persisted in 16 out of 77 patients (20.8%). In multivariate analysis, predictive variables of treatment failure were tender point count (odds ratio [OR] = 0.49, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.28–0.86, p = 0.01) and pain magnification (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.47–0.99, p = 0.04) assessed with Pain Catastrophizing Scale, at T1. At T2, the only predictive variable of treatment failure was concomitant duloxetine use (OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.05–0.95, p = 0.04).
Conclusion.
The novelties of this study are in the context of PPPM/3PM in terms of a predictive approach, through the identification of clinical characteristics of unfavorable response to acupuncture. By evaluating these variables, it is possible to implement a targeted and cost-effective tertiary prevention and plan personalized medical service in patients with FM.
Chlorpromazine, an inverse agonist of D1R-like, differentially targets voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV) subtypes in mPFC neurons
Authors: McCarthy Clara Inés , Mustafá Emilio Román , Cornejo María Paula , Yaneff Agustin , Rodriguez Silvia Susana , Perello Mario , Raingo Jesica
Published: August 2022

The dopamine receptor type 1 (D1R) and the dopamine receptor type 5 (D5R), which are often grouped as D1R-like due to their sequence and signaling similarities, exhibit high levels of constitutive activity. The molecular basis for this agonist-independent activation have been well characterized through biochemical and mutagenesis in vitro studies. In this regard, it was reported that many antipsychotic drugs act as inverse agonists of D1R-like constitutive activity. On the other hand, D1R is highly expressed in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a brain area with important functions such as working memory. Here, we studied the impact of D1R-like constitutive activity and chlorpromazine (CPZ), an antipsychotic drug and D1R-like inverse agonist, on various neuronal CaV conductances and we explored its effect on calcium-dependent neuronal functions in the mouse medial mPFC. Using ex vivo brain slices containing the mPFC and transfected HEK293T cells, we found that CPZ reduces CaV2.2 currents by occluding D1R-like constitutive activity, in agreement with a mechanism previously reported by our lab; whereas CPZ directly inhibits CaV1 currents in a D1R-like activity independent manner. In contrast, CPZ and D1R constitutive activity did not affect CaV2.1 or CaV3 currents. Finally, we found that CPZ reduces excitatory postsynaptic responses in mPFC neurons. Our results contribute to understanding CPZ molecular targets in neurons and describe a novel physiological consequence of CPZ non-canonical action as a D1R-like inverse agonist in the mouse brain.
Modern technology adoption and professional development of Lecturers
Authors: Uzorka Afam , Namara Shiellah , Olaniyan Ademola
Published: August 2022

As technology becomes increasingly integrated with education, research regarding the professional development needs of lecturers making the transition to working in a technology-mediated environment following technological advancement is paramount in improving learning experiences. This study was carried out to investigate the lecturers’ professional development needs with regard to technology. This qualitative study randomly selected a convenience sample of 130 faculty and administrators. Using an interview guide, the interviewers met with 89 participants. Data were transcribed and entered into a database for analysis. The findings reported are uses of technology and professional development initiatives. Most lecturers identify time as their greatest barrier. Recognizing that time is also their most valued asset, lecturers look for professional development opportunities designed to meet their needs, relevant to how they want to apply the technology, with trainers and support people who use principles of andragogy and constructivism when teaching, training, and communicating. The study shows that there is a need for those involved in planning and implementing professional development opportunities to consider the needs of administrators and lecturers, and principles of adult education and constructivism when planning and implementing professional development opportunities.
Influence of spatial distribution pattern of buildings on the distribution of urban gaseous pollutants
Authors: Yu Xinwei , Shan Baoyan , Chen Yanqiu , Zhang Qiao , Ren Qixin , Lv Yongqiang
Published: August 2022

Buildings are the main component of urban, and their three-dimensional spatial patterns affect meteorological conditions and consequently, the spatial distribution of gaseous pollutants (CO, NO, NO2, and SO2). This study uses the Jinan Central District as the study area, and constructs a building spatial distribution index system based on DEM, urban road network, and building big data. ANOVA and spatial regression models were used to study the effects of building spatial distribution indicators on the distribution of gaseous pollutants along with their spatial heterogeneity. The results showed that (1) The effect of each spatial distribution index of building on the concentration distribution of the four gaseous pollutants was significant, with one-way ANOVA outcomes reaching a significance level of 0.01 or more. The DEM mean, building altitude, and their interaction with other building spatial distribution indicators are important factors affecting the distribution of gaseous pollutants; The interaction of other three-factor indicators did not have a significant effect on the distribution of gaseous pollutant concentrations. (2) The spatial distribution of CO and NO2 is mainly influenced by the indicators of the spatial distribution of buildings in this study unit, and the effects of CO and NO2 concentrations in adjacent study units are the result of the action of stochastic factors. The NO and SO2 concentrations are influenced by the spatial distribution index of buildings in this study unit, the neighborhood homogeneity index, and NO and SO2 concentrations. (3) Spatial heterogeneity was observed in the effects of building spatial distribution indicators on the concentrations of different pollutants. The GWR models constructed using CO and NO concentrations and building spatial distribution indicators were well fitted globally and locally. The CO and NO concentrations were negatively correlated with the mean topographic elevation and NO concentrations were correlated with building density.
Social media as a source of drug safety information in the paediatric population
Authors: Vilimelis-Piulats Ingrid , Pérez-Ricart Ariadna , Calvo Albert , Negre JM Suñé , Juárez-Gimenez Juan Carlos
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Children are vulnerable to suffer negative outcomes due to medication (NOM), social media (SM) can be a non-interventional tool to gather safety data. The aim of this study is to assess paediatric Adverse Events (AE) or suspected Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) detected in SM. Secondary objectives are the assessment of NOM, Drug Related Problems (DRP) and Medication Errors (ME). Methods: Observational, ambispective study assessing NOM in Public Parenting Forums (PPF) using data mining software. Entries that mentioned a medicine administered to children were analyzed and, if NOMs were detected, DRP, ME and AE were categorized. ME and ADR seriousness were assessed. ADR causality according Liverpool Causality Assessment (LCAT) and prevalence compared with those reported in Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) of each product. Results: Two forums (mumsnet.uk; socpetit.cat 2733 (81%)) were analyzed. Of 3375 entries, 635 contained a NOM and a DRP, 214 in English, 6 in Spanish and 217 in Catalan. 161 ADR were detected, including Serious AEs (SAEs), unknown, rare or very rare ADR. 29(16%) were not reported in SmPC. 95 ME were found, caused parents or caregivers (40; 42%) and healthcare professionals (HCP) (55; 58%). Severity ranged from no harm up to harm required intervention. Conclusion: ADR were found in PPF, including SAEs and ADR with low or unknown prevalence and suspect ADRs not included in the SmPC. ME that reached children were also found. As consequence, despite that the overall number of entries is not high, forums are a source of valuable pharmacovigilance information.
Fine mapping via QTL-seq, Target-seq and RNA-seq of a novel QTL controlling early flowering time in spring B.napus
Authors: Tang Jie , Liu Haidong , Quan Youjuan , Yao Yanmei , Li Kaixiang , Tang Guoyong , Du Dezhi
Published: August 2022

Days to flowering (DTF) is a very important trait of rapeseed, but the molecular mechanism in spring B. napus is unknown. We previously located a novel candidate QTL for the early-flowering trait in spring B. naopus, which was named BnaC08cqDTF. Here, DNA pools of extreme early-flowering and late-flowering BC3F2 plants from crosses between spring-type B. napus No. 4512 (early flowering parent) and No. 5246 (late flowering parent) were bulked for QTL sequencing (QTL-seq) and initial mapping. Target sequencing (Target-seq) and fine mapping were performed using the BC3F2 and BC4F2 population plants. BnaC08cqDTF was narrowed to the 86 kb region of chromosome C08. RNA-seq and qRT‒PCR analyses indicated that the expressing levels of two candidate genes (BnaC08G0010400ZS and BnaC08G0011200ZS) in No. 4512 were significantly higher than those in No. 5246. Furthermore, we cloned the genes of BnaC08G0010400ZS and BnaC08G0011200ZS from parents and NILs. An A/G nonsynonymous mutation was identified in the 1,259 bp locus of exon 3 in the CDS of BnaC08G00101400ZS, causing a 374 E to K amino acid substitution. This SNP haplotype also exists in a natural population. BnaC08G0010400ZS may be the candidate gene of BnaC08cqDTF, and this gene is homologous to the AT1G04400 gene (CRY2) in Arabidopsis. Our results may contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of early flowering regulation and promote the breeding program for prematurity in spring B. napus.
Indigenous knowledge of farmers on classification, utilization and on-farm management of Enset (Ensete ventricosum) diversity in Hadiya, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Dilebo Tesfaye , Feyissa Tileye , Asfaw Zemede , Zewdu Ashagrie
Published: August 2022

Background
Farmers have a wealth of indigenous knowledge on enset cultivation in their communities acquired through the accumulation of experience over a long period. Enset (Ensete ventricosum (Welw.) Cheesman) is a multipurpose species and one of the most widely grown perennial crops in southern Ethiopia. Although enset is a high-value and vital crop for local farmers, necessary information is insufficiently documented and still not fully explored at the local level. Thus, this study was designed to assess and record the wealth of indigenous knowledge related to the local identification, naming, categorization, and traditional uses of enset landraces (farmers’ varieties) relevant for the maintenance of on-farm landrace diversity in Hadiya Zone, southern Ethiopia.
Results
In this study, we identified 99 locally named enset landraces under cultivation. Farmers regularly identify the name and classify numerous enset landraces based on different criteria, the four morphological traits (namely: leaf, midrib, petiole, and pseudostem colors) are primarily used as criteria for identification. In addition, the local names of some enset landraces are usually indicators and show their uniqueness in morphological traits, places of origin, agronomic features, and quality attributes of products. Based on farmers, cultivated enset landraces are classified into two general groups according to the characteristics regarding the ease of harvesting and processing, rate of fermentation, and quality and values of the end products. Enset products named qocho, bulla and amicho are commonly produced by each family. Furthermore, three types of qocho are traditionally produced by local farmers based on types of the landraces used during harvesting, the presence absence of fermentation starter (gammama), and the duration of fermentation.
Conclusion
The traditional farming system and associated wisdom contributed to the availability of the present-day on-farm diversity maintained under continuous cultivation and conservation practices. The indigenous knowledge of local farmers regarding the cultural, social, and economic values of enset and its production system is crucial for understanding how the local communities utilize, maintain, and manage the existing enset landrace diversity in their homegardens. It is necessary to integrate indigenous knowledge with the modern system for continuous utilization and conservation strategies of enset genetic resources and their diversity.
Identification of DSPP Novel Variants and Phenotype Analysis in dentinogenesis dysplasia shields type II Patients
Authors: Du Qin , Cao Li , Yan Nana , Kang Sujun , Lin Mu , Cao Peilin , Jia Ran , Wang Chenyang , Qi Hanyu , Yu Yue , Zou Jing , Yang Jiyun
Published: August 2022

Objectives: To investigate the genetic causes and characteristics of teeth of dentin dysplasia Shields Type-II(DD-II) in three Chinese families.Materials and Methods: Three Chinese families affected with DD-II were collected. The whole-exome sequencing(WES) and whole-genome sequencing(WGS) were conducted to screen for variations, and sanger sequencing was used to verify mutation sites. The physical and chemical characteristics of the affected teeth including tooth structure, hardness, mineral content and ultrastructure were investigated.Results: A novel frameshift deletion mutation c.1871_1874del(p.Ser624fs) in DSPP was found in family A and family B, while no pathogenic mutation was found in family C. The affected teeth’s pulp cavities were obliterated, and the root canals were smaller than normal teeth and irregularly distributed comprising a network. The patients’ teeth also had reduced dentin hardness and highly irregular dentinal tubules. The Mg content of the teeth was significantly higher than the controls but the Na content was obviously lower than the controls.Conclusions: A novel frameshift deletion mutation c.1871_1874del(p.Ser624fs) in the DPP region of the DSPP gene caused DD-II. The DD-II teeth demonstrated compromised mechanical properties and changed ultrastructure, suggesting an impaired function of DPP. Our findings expanded the mutational spectrum of DSPP gene and strengthen the understanding of clinical phenotypes related to the frameshift deletion in the DPP region of the DSPP gene.Clinical Relevance: DSPP mutation can cause the characteristics of the affected teeth including tooth structure, hardness, mineral content and ultrastructure.
Quantitative CT lung COVID scores: Prediction of rapid progression and monitoring longitudinal changes in COVID-19 pneumonia patients
Authors: Kang Da Hyun , Kim Grace Hyun J. , Park Sa-Beom , Lee Song-I , Koh Jeong Suk , Brown Matthew S. , Abtin Fereidoun , McNitt-Gray Michael F. , Lee Jeong Seok , Goldin Jonathan G.
Published: August 2022

Background
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is an ongoing issue in some populations with rapidly worsening pneumonia and persistent symptoms. This study aimed to test the predictability of rapid progression within 7 days of hospitalization using radiographic scores with laboratory markers at baseline and to present longitudinal changes.
Methods
This retrospective study included 222 subjects (mean age: 53.4 years, 50.9% male) diagnosed with COVID-19 and admitted between February and September 2020 at Chungnam National University Hospital. Rapid progression was defined as respiratory failure requiring ventilator support. From high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) analyses, quantitative COVID (QCOVID) scores were derived: (1) ground glass opacity (QGGO), (2) mixed diseases (QMD), and (3) consolidation (QCON), and the sum, quantitative total lung diseases (QTLD). ROC analyses were performed to predict progression. Mixed-effects models were performed using serial 2–6 HRCTs over 2–4 months, where the last scans were obtained after discharge. The laboratory data including white blood cell count, platelet count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were obtained from electronic medical records.
Results
Rapid progression was observed in 10.4% (23/222) of patients. All QCOVID scores predicted rapid progression, with QMD showing the best predictability (area under the curve, AUC = 0.813, p < 0.001). In multivariate analyses, QMD, CRP, and IL-6 were important predictors (AUCs:0.86–0.87). Patients with a high QMD score (≥ 10%) likely progressed > 10 folds (p < 0.001). QCOVID scores were positively correlated with the neutrophil count, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, CRP, and IL-6 levels. In 21 subjects with > 2 months follow-up, parenchymal areas were still observed with a QTLD of 1.4–29.3%, even after several weeks of negative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test.
Conclusions
AI-driven quantitative scores can be useful in predicting the rapid progression and monitoring of COVID-19 with other laboratory markers.
Hydrothermally grown defect-free ZnO nanorods with high angular distribution for enhanced excitonic emission
Authors: Fiedler Saskia , Ton-That Cuong , Phillips Matthew R.
Published: August 2022

Low-temperature hydrothermal growth has emerged as a popular method for the fabrication of ZnO nanorods (NRs), increasing the functionality and utility of ZnO-based devices. In this work, we study the influence of growth time, temperature and seed layer on the dimensions and angular distribution of hydrothermally grown ZnO NRs. High-quality ZnO NRs with a crisscrossed 60° angular distribution with respect to the substrate normal have been grown with a small diameter (20–60 nm) and a length of approximately 600 nm. We show that, within the ideal range of growth parameters (70–100°C for 2–4 hours), the growth time and temperature have no controllable influence on diameter and length, while the deposition method and size of the pre-growth deposited ZnO seeds affects diameter and NR angular alignment. Control over both is important for device structures involving wave-guided, angular dependent light emission and for high sensitivity and speed of chemical sensors. Furthermore, we demonstrate advantages of using crisscross-aligned ZnO NRs over planar ZnO for the enhancement of ZnO excitonic emission by optical coupling with gold nanoparticles (NPs). These results can be readily adapted for various applications that involve surface (NP) coating-mediated enhancement of both light emission or injection.
Development of a nomogram to predict hospitalized mortality of patients with sepsis
Authors: Cheng Kun , Yu Guangwei , Zhou XiaoFen , Lin Fenghui
Published: August 2022

Background
Sepsis is a severe organ dysfunction caused by infection, which is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. We developed a novel risk-predicted nomogram of hospitalized mortality for this retrospective study.
Methods
The study involved a retrospective analysis of sepsis patients diagnosed between January 2013 and December 2019. Based on clinical outcomes, patients were categorized into a survival group and a death group. Using logistic regression analysis, a predictive model with a nomogram was formulated in the training set, after which internal validation and sensitivity analysis were performed. C-index and calibration curves were used in the training and validation cohorts to evaluate nomogram discrimination and calibration. Utilizing decision curve analysis, an assessment of the clinical utility of the final nomogram was conducted.
Results
A total of 494 patients were enrolled for analysis. In the multivariate analysis, cardiac function (OR: 1.58, P = 0.039) stood out as an independent sepsis risk factor, whereas hemoglobin (OR: 0.98, P = 0.025) served as a protective factor. Although the multivariate regression analysis did not detect any significant differences in AKI staging, in light of the previous studies, a nomogram for the prediction of hospitalized sepsis mortality was constructed by taking into account these three factors. Based on this model's C-index of 0.626, it suggested moderate predictive power.
Conclusions
Our study indicates that patients with sepsis in combination with anemia, cardiac dysfunction, and AKI are associated with significantly high mortality. To some extent, this may contribute to the determination of risk assessments and treatment strategies.
Defining priorities areas for biodiversity conservation and trading forest certificates in the Cerrado biome in Brazil
Authors: Schwaida Samuel Fernando , Cicerelli Rejane , Almeida Tati , Sano Edson Eyji , Pires Carlos Henrique , Ramos Ana Paula Marques
Published: August 2022

Habitat loss and natural vegetation fragmentation are significant causes of global biodiversity decline, impacting plant and animal species negatively. This issue is worrisome in the private areas of Cerrado in Brazil, which is the second-largest biome, considered a hotspot for biodiversity conservation, and a provider of ecosystem services. Herein, we present a novel integrated approach to define priority areas for biodiversity conservation and environmental compensation in Cerrado, using multicriteria analysis. Our approach combines variables like deforestation projection, integral connectivity index, threatened species occurrence, and environmental information of rural properties, ranking the importance of remaining native vegetation for biodiversity conservation and forest certificate issuance. Landscape metrics were used to observe and predict land use and land cover changes from 1988 to 2038. We found a loss of native vegetation in the Cerrado superior to 20% between 1988 and 2018, associated with increased of its fragmentation and its connectivity loss, especially after 2008. Moreover, we determined that is expected a loss of native vegetation of around 55% by 2038 in Cerrado. Its natural cover was replaced by pasture mostly, and agriculture more recently. The proposed approach can predict the consequences of future changes in the landscape of the private areas in the Cerrado biome. It should be replicated in other ecosystems, supporting the decision-making process for biodiversity protection.
Estimating population ITN access at council level in Tanzania
Authors: Koenker Hannah , Worges Matt , Yukich Joshua , Gitanya Peter , Chacky Frank , Lazaro Samwel , Mwalimu Charles Dismas , Aaron Sijenunu , Ibrahim Raya , Abbas Faiza , Khamis Mwinyi , Mwingizi Deodatus , Dadi David , Selby Ato , Serbantez Naomi , Msangi Lulu , Loll Dana , Kamala Benjamin
Published: August 2022

BackgroundSince 2013, the National Malaria Control Program in mainland Tanzania and the Zanzibar Malaria Elimination Program have implemented mass ITN campaigns, routine ITN distribution to pregnant women and infants, and continuous distribution through primary schools (mainland) and community leaders (Zanzibar) to further malaria control efforts. Mass campaigns are triggered when ITN access falls below 40%. In this context there is a need to monitor ITN access annually to assess whether it is below threshold and inform quantification of ITNs for the following year. Annual estimates of access are needed at the council level to inform programmatic decision making.MethodsAn age-structured stock and flow model was used to predict annual net crops from council-level distribution data in Tanzania from 2012-2020 parameterized with a Tanzania-specific net median lifespan of 2.15 years. Annual nets-per-capita (NPC) was calculated by dividing each annual net crop by mid-year council projected population. A previously fit nonparametric conditional quartile function for the proportion of the population with access to an ITN (ITN access) as a function of NPC was used to predict ITN access at the council level based on the predicted NPC value. These estimates were compared to regional-level ITN access from large household surveys. ResultsFor regions with the same ITN strategy for all councils, predicted council-level ITN access was consistent with regional-level survey data for 79% of councils. Regions where ITN strategy varied by council had regional estimates of ITN access that diverged from the council-specific estimates. Predicted ITN access reached 60% only when “nets issued as a percentage of the council population” (NPP) exceeded 15%, and approached 80% ITN access when NPP was at or above 20%.ConclusionModeling ITN access with country-specific net decay rates, council-level population, and ITN distribution data is a promising approach to monitor ITN coverage sub-regionally and between household surveys in Tanzania and beyond.
Groundwater Level Monitoring Networks Design with Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Teimoori Sadaf , Olya Mohammad Hessam , Miller Carol
Published: August 2022

Collecting and analyzing groundwater data are essential to evaluate the regional groundwater flow patterns and quality under existing and future temporal/spatial hydraulic stressors. These data also provide researchers with the information required to calibrate the groundwater models and study the interaction between surface water and groundwater resources. In general, frequent and well-organized groundwater monitoring improves the comprehension of groundwater systems and enhances groundwater resource management. Both surface water and groundwater quality monitoring networks have been extensively studied and presented in literature reviews. In contrast, there is much less literature focused on groundwater level monitoring networks. In many regions, groundwater level monitoring networks are limited and do not provide sufficient data for decision-making purposes. This gap in data availability is due to multiple reasons but includes financial constraints and the limited interest in those areas that rely more heavily on surface water resources for human consumption and industrial purposes. Here, we introduce methods employing K-means clustering and/or Relevance Vector Machine to design an optimal groundwater level monitoring network. The machine learning algorithms utilize the hydrogeological datasets obtained from the initial groundwater MODFLOW models and consider the uncertainties in the aquifer characterization through stochastic simulations. The result of this research is three groundwater level monitoring networks which the optimal one is selected based on the minimum modeling error. The network configurations are demonstrated in terms of the number and location of the observation wells. The proposed monitoring network improves the procedure of groundwater modeling and significantly reduces modeling errors.
Dynamic Response Analysis of Coastal Piled Bridge Pier Subjected to Current, Wave and Earthquake Actions with Different Structure Orientations
Authors: Alsultani Riyadh A.A. , Karim Ibtisam R. , Khassaf Saleh I.
Published: August 2022

The goal of the experiment described in this paper was to examine the effects of structure orientation (0° to 90°) and fluid-structure interaction (FSI) under combined water loads, represented by water current and waves, and earthquake actions, on the dynamic response of a reduced-scale bridge pier specimen with pile foundation. The peak relative displacement and peak acceleration of the specimen are measured using first time innovative in Iraq, Reality Water-Structure-Earthquake Interaction Test (RWSEIT). The findings are given and analyzed in relation to water depths, current speed, wave characteristics, earthquake amplitudes, and structural orientations. A numerical model of the examined specimen with three dimensions (3D) was constructed, and the findings were successfully confirmed using the data from the experiments. A pile foundation bridge pier's 3D structural response under orientations that cannot be tested in a lab was computed using the constructed numerical model. The complicated dynamically produced FSI effects on the response of coastal pile foundation bridges may be better understood according to the research's experimental and numerical findings.
A comparison of machine learning methods to predict survival times for cancer patients: Incorporating time-varying covariates
Authors: Cygu Steve , Seow Hsien , Dushoff Jonathan , Bolker Benjamin M.
Published: August 2022

The Cox proportional hazard model is commonly used in evaluating risk factors in cancer survival data. The model assumes an additive, linear relationship between the risk factors and the log hazard. However, this assumption may be too simplistic. Further, failure to take time-varying covariates into account, if present, may lower prediction accuracy. In this retrospective, population-based, prognostic study of data from patients diagnosed with cancer from 2008 to 2015 in Ontario, Canada, we applied machine learning-based time-to-event prediction methods and compared their predictive performance in two sets of analyses: 1) yearly-cohort-based time-invariant and 2) fully time-varying covariates analysis. Machine learning-based methods — gradient boosting model (gbm), random survival forest (rsf), elastic net (enet), lasso, ridge, and deepsurv neural network (nnet) — were compared to the traditional Cox proportional hazard (coxph) model and the prior study which used the yearly-cohort-based time-invariant analysis. Using Harrell's C index as our primary measure, we found that using both machine-learning techniques and incorporating time-dependent covariates can improve predictive performance. Gradient boosting machine showed the best performance on test data in both time-invariant and time-varying covariates analysis.
A novel method for analyzing the performance of free space optical communication in WDM using EDFA
Authors: Periyasamy Karupasamy , Rathinam Vinoth , Ganesan Karthikeyan , Muthusamy Suresh , Ramachandran Meenakumari , Lamba Ravita , Panchal Hitesh , Shanmugam Maheswaran , Jalajakumari Suji Prasad Sudarsanan Nair , Kottapalli Rajyalakshmi
Published: August 2022

This paper intends to design anartificial model of WDM Optical Network in respect of length, pump power and simple free space optical link which is designed and analysis of several FSO (Free-space optical communication) factors such as Bit Error Rate (BER), Q factor and received power have been measured with regard to the variants in the beam divergence and attenuation. The Simulation process of the System has been done using Optic simulation software to achieve gain enhancement and decrease noise factor of Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA) through optimized fiber length and pump power. This workfocused to construct artificial design and analyses of 16 channels WDM system using EDFA and the influence of irregular atmospheric Motions on the link performance has been inspected by fluctuating beam divergence, atmospheric disturbances and modulation format at the bit rate of 10 Gb/s. As slicing in WDM schemes, in the transmitter channel with the frequency of 1558nm and chip spacing 0.4nm, power value is equal to + 23.5dBm, whereas the optical power meter plus can be used to predict the output power in the form of NRZ modulation, while the input power is produced with a help of CW laser, the gain level has been enriched from 1564nm to 1558nm wavelength band with bit rate of 10GbpS.This system is prepared by using Optic simulation software version 7.
Nanoplasmonic amplification in microfluidics enables minute-scale colorimetric quantification of nucleic acid biomarkers
Authors: AbdElFatah Tamer , Jalali Mahsa , Yedire Sripadh , Hosseini Imman Isaac , Mata Carolina Del Real , Khan Haleema , Hamidi Seyed , Jeanne Olivia , Moakhar Roozbeh Siavash , McLean Myles , Patel Dhanesh , Wang Zhen , Yousefi Mitra , Vidal Silvia , Liang Chen , Mahshid Sara
Published: August 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Automatic characterization of stroke patients’ posturography based on probability density analysis
Authors: Wang Ying , Hu Zhen , Chen Kai , Yang Ying
Published: August 2022

Objective The probability density analysis was applied to automatically characterize the center of pressure (COP) data for evaluation of the stroke patients’ balance ability. Methods The real-time COP coordinates of 38 stroke patients with eyes open and close during quiet standing were obtained respectively from a precision force platform. The COP data was analyzed and characterized by the commonly used parameters: total sway length (SL), sway radius (SR), envelope sway area (EA), and the probability density analysis based parameters: projection area (PA), skewness (SK) and kurtosis (KT), and their statistical correlations were analyzed. The differences of both conventional parameters and probability density parameters under the conditions of eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC) were compared.Results The PA from probability density analysis is strongly correlated with SL and SR. Both the traditional parameters and probability density parameters in the EC state are significantly different from those in the EO state. The obtained different statokinesigrams were calculated and categorized into typical sway types through probability density function for clinical evaluation of the balance ability of stroke patients. Conclusions The probability density analysis of COP data can be used to characterize the posturography for evaluation of the balance ability of stroke patients.
Quality of life of patients with functional bowel disorders
Authors: zaimi yosra , Trabelsi Ghassen , Shimi Maha , MW Dougaz , ayadi shema
Published: August 2022

Functional bowel disorders are among the most common digestive disorders. Although not life-threatening, they have a repercussions on the quality of life of patients. The score averages for the quality of life of our patients were lower than those of general population. Certain factors associated to a worse quality of life are modifiable
Car enthusiasm during the second and fourth waves of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Szmelter-Jarosz Agnieszka , Suchanek Michał
Published: August 2022

This paper investigates the car enthusiasm of Polish residents during the second and fourth waves of the pandemic. We try to answer if the car enthusiasm has changed between October 2020 and October 2021. Furthermore, we looked into the attitudes and beliefs of respondents about the transport modes and their use, their perceived quality of life and their opinions about sustainability and ecological lifestyle. We use a CAWI survey in two rounds (October 2020 and October 2021. For data analysis, a SEM model was proposed. We observe important changes in car enthusiasm between those two waves of the pandemic. Firstly, car enthusiasm was higher in 2021 than in 2020. Secondly, it was positively correlated with the ecological orientation of respondents. Thirdly, Y generation respondents were less car enthusiastic. Fourthly, the influence of life quality on the car enthusiasm was stronger in the fourth pandemic wave than during the second one.
Sub-Domain Method for Brushless Double-Rotor Flux-Switching Permanent Magnet Machines with Yokeless Stator
Authors: Shirzad Ehsan , pirouz Hassan Mohammai , Shirzad Mohammad taghi
Published: August 2022

his paper presents a two-dimensional analytical model for brushless double-rotor flux-switching permanent magnet machines (BDRPFSPMM) with yokeless stator recognized as a type of partitioned-structure flux switching permanent magnet that is an appropriate machine to be employed as the electric motor in industry. The most salient advantages of proposed machine are low iron loss due to volume of iron in stator and high space of stator slot for winding. The radial and tangential components of the magnetic flux density due to permanent magnets and armature currents in each active domain of the machine, electromagnetic torque, self and mutual inductance, unbalanced magnetic force (UMF) and local traction are calculated based on the subdomain method. Teethes on both rotor and stator structures are effective on magnetic quantities so, interactions of rotor-and stator-saliency are considered. The method is general for the magnetic field calculation with any combination of rotor-and stator-pole number. To validate the proposed model, the analytical outputs are compared with those obtained from the finite element method (FEM).
Lessons learned and implications of early therapies for coronavirus disease in a territorial service center in the Calabria region
Authors: Scaglione Vincenzo , Rotundo Salvatore , Marascio Nadia , De Marco Carmela , Lionello Rosaria , Veneziano Claudia , Berardelli Lavinia , Quirino Angela , Olivadese Vincenzo , Serapide Francesca , Tassone Bruno , Morrone Helen Linda , Davoli Chiara , Gamba Valentina La , Bruni Andrea , Cesana Bruno Mario , Matera Giovanni , Russo Alessandro , Costanzo Francesco Saverio , Viglietto Giuseppe , Trecarichi Enrico Maria , Torti Carlo
Published: August 2022

Background: Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and antivirals have been approved for early therapy of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), however, in the real-life setting, there are difficulties to prescribe these therapies within few days from symptom onset as recommended, and effectiveness of combined use of these drugs have been hypothesized in most-at-risk patients (such as those immonocompromised) but there are no data supporting this strategy.Methods: We describe the real-life experience of SARS-CoV-2 antivirals and/or monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and focus on the hospitalization rate due to the progression of COVID-19. Clinical results obtained through our risk-stratification algorithm and benefits obtained through a strategic proximity territorial center are provided. We also report a case series with an in-depth evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 genome in relationship with treatment strategy and clinical evolution of patients.Results: Two hundred eighty-eight patients were analyzed; 94/288 (32.6%) patients were treated with mAb monotherapy, 171/288 (59.4%) patients were treated with antivirals, and 23/288 (8%) patients received both mAbs and one antiviral drug. Hematological malignancies were more frequent in patients treated with combination therapy than in the other groups (p=0.0003). There was a substantial increase in the number of treated patients since the opening of the center dedicated to early therapies for COVID-19. The provided disease-management and treatment appeared to be effective since 98.6% patients recovered without hospital admission. Moreover, combination therapy with mAbs and antivirals seemed successful because all patients admitted to the hospital for COVID-19 did not receive such therapies, while none of the most-at-risk patients treated with combination therapy were hospitalized or reported adverse events. By contrast, emergence and accumulation of possible relevant mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome were observed in cases not treated with early combination therapy.Conclusions: A low rate of COVID-19 progression requiring hospital admission was observed in patients included in this study. The dedicated COVID-19 proximity territorial service significantly strengthened the regional sanitary system, providing a strong benefit in terms of prescriptions and quality of care and avoiding the overwhelming of other services. Importantly, our results also support early combination therapy in immunocompromised patients to avoid clinical worsening, onset of mutations, and resistance to anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents.
Initial levels of β-amyloid and tau deposition have distinct effects on longitudinal tau accumulation in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cai Yue , Du Jing , Li Anqi , Zhu Yalin , Xu Linsen , Sun Kun , Ma Shaohua , Guo Tengfei
Published: August 2022

Background
Clarifying the relative roles of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles in longitudinal tau replication and propagation inside and outside the medial temporal lobe (MTL) as well as how age, sex, APOE-4, and Klotho-VS heterozygosity (KL-VShet) modulate their relationships in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may help with designing therapeutic clinical trials for AD and aid in our understanding of the disease’s symptoms.
Methods
We divided the 325 Aβ PET positive (A+) participants in this study into two groups, A+/T- (143) and A+/T+ (182), based on the threshold (1.25) of the Temporal-metaROI 18F-flortaucipir (FTP) standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR). We compared the baseline and slopes of A+/T- and A+/T + individuals’ Aβ plaques and Temporal-metaROI tau tangles with those of 162 A-/T- cognitively normal individuals without neurodegeneration. We also looked into how baseline Aβ and tau predict longitudinal tau increases and how age, sex, APOE-4, and KL-VShet affect these associations.
Results
In entorhinal, amygdala, and parahippocampal (early tau-affected regions of Temporal-metaROI), we found baseline Aβ and tau deposition were positively linked with more rapid tau increases in A+/T- participants. However, in A+/T + individuals, the longitudinal tau propagation of the fusiform, inferior temporal, and middle temporal cortices (late tau-affected regions of Temporal-metaROI) was primarily fueled by the presence of tau tangles rather than Aβ plaques. Furthermore, compared to older people (age≥65), younger individuals (age≤65) had faster Aβ-dependent but slower tau-related tau accumulation. Additionally, compared to the KL-VShet− group, KL-VShet+ carriers showed significantly less longitudinal tau accumulation associated with baseline entorhinal tau in the fusiform and inferior temporal regions.
Conclusion
These findings offer novel perspectives on developing AD treatment plans and aid in understanding tau replication and propagation inside and outside MTL in AD. In particular, decreasing Aβ plaques might be adequate for A+/T- persons but may not be sufficient for A+/T + individuals in preventing tau propagation and subsequent downstream effects connected to tau.
Clinico-radiological features of aspiration-related lung disease: a retrospective observational clinical study
Authors: Wang Lina , Ma Shuai , Qiu Jianxing , Xiong Yan , Shi Mingwei , Lin Lianjun , Liu Xinmin
Published: August 2022

Background
Aspiration-related lung disease may mimick a variety of pulmonary disorders. Complex clinical presentations, non-specific radiologic characteristics, lack of aspiration history and difficulties in obtaining lung biopsy make diagnosis challenging.
Methods
This retrospective observational study reviewed all patients of aspiration pneumonia identified on lung pathology in Peking university first hospital from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2021.Clinical information including risk factors, symptoms, bronchoscopic examinations, chest imaging findings and outcomes on discharge were analyzed.
Results
A total of 20 inpatients with aspiration-related lung disease were included. Median age was 64 years (interquartile range: 55 to 67.75) and 14 (70%) were male patients. Aspiration-related lung disease was confirmed by lung biopsy (histologic presence of foreign body or other particulate matter) or cytologic pathology in BALF. Of these,19(95%) lung specimens included 6 (30%) surgical biopsy, 12 (60%) bronchoscopic biopsy and 1 CT-guided lung aspiration biopsy. One patient was identified by cytologic examination of BAL fluid. Recurrent cough was the most common symptom (70%). Four patients (20%) were asymptomatic and were discovered pulmonary nodules incidentally. Fourteen patients (70%) had one or more risk factors for aspiration, with dysphagia or choking the most common one (10 cases, 50%). Only 7 patients (35%) were clinically suspected of aspiration prior to biopsy. Twelve patients (66.7%) showed at least 2 lung lobes involved. Chest CT imaging revealed a variety of abnormalities, including mass in 9 patients (50%), ground glass opacity in 8 patients (44.4%), consolidation in 7 patients (38.9%), bronchiolitis in 5 patients (27.8%). The proportion of neutrophils in BALF cytological classification increased significantly during all 7 patients who underwent bronchoalveolar lavage. Five patients occurred respiratory failure and one patient needed endotracheal intubation for auxiliary ventilation.
Conclusions
Our study confirmed the atypical clinical manifestations of aspiration-related disease, which should be considered in the differentiation of pulmonary lesions even without risk factors or respiratory symptoms.
Power Harvesting Enhancement from PV array and Power Quality Improvement in Grid Connected PV Interleaved Inverter Using Hybrid LSE-WHO Approach
Authors: K Vidhya , K Krishnamoorthi
Published: August 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.