bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empirical approches for non-linear site response: results from the ESG6-blind test.
Authors: REGNIER Julie , Bard Pierre-Yves , Castro-Cruz David , Derras Boumédiène , Bertrand Etienne
Published: June 2023

As a contribution to step 3 of the ESG6 blind prediction exercise, we present an application of two different, purely empirical approaches to estimate the strong ground motion at a soft site ("KUMA") from the observed ground motion at a reference rock site ("SEVO") for the two largest shocks of the Kumamoto 2016 sequence (a foreshock with Mj=6.5, and the mainshock with Mj=7.3). The two methods estimate the non-linear transfer function between a reference rock and a sedimentary site by modifying the linear transfer function derived from weak motion recordings. The modification is based either on a machine learning tool based on a wide collection of Japanese weak and strong motion recordings and the associated site metadata (method M1), or on an estimate of a site-specific parameter related to an average non-linear site response (M2). The acceleration time series are then derived at the sedimentary site of interest using an estimation of the time delay between wave arrivals at the rock and site stations, and a minimum phase assumption for the site transfer function.
These predictions were made blindly, but after the ESG6 conference they could be compared both with the actual ground motion recorded at KUMA during the two shocks, and the average and range of all other predictions preformed for this benchmark.
The quality of predictions is quantified through various "goodness of fit" (GOF) measures. The agreement may be considered as "excellent" for the foreshock and "good" for the mainshock for usual engineering ground motion parameters (peak values, response spectra, integral parameters), but is very poor in terms of waveform details – as usual for all ground motion predictions even in the linear domain –. The performance of these two purely empirical approaches is at least comparable to those of the numerical simulation methods for the foreshock – if not better -, and slightly worse for the (largest) mainshock. This may come either from an underestimation of non-linear effects, or from the relatively large distance (8 km) between the reference and the target site which limits the reliability of the empirical transfer functions and thus the applicability of the approaches used here for such an instrumental layout.
Both of these purely empirical methods provide an honorable prediction of the Fourier spectra and acceleration time histories of the two target events, as the methods required only recordings of weak motions at the target and a referent sites and very simple description of the soil profile. The use of moderate motions to constrain the frequency shift prediction for the second method and the consideration of an alternative phase modification are possible ways to improvement.
Fetal mesenchymal stem cells promote osteogenesis via Notch signaling
Authors: Lee Jaemin , An Hyun-Ju , Rim Jong Seop , Kong Taeho , Won Jihye , Kim Junsung , Shim So Hyun , Lee Soonchul
Published: June 2023

Background Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a source of osteoblasts play a key role in bone repair and regeneration. Fetal mesenchymal stem cells (Fetal-MSCs) exhibit lower immunogenicity, higher potential for expansion, and higher differentiation potential into various cell lineages than adult MSCs. Herein,in vitroandin vivoevaluations were performed to study the role of human Fetal-MSCs in osteogenic differentiation and bone regeneration in comparison to that of adult bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs). Methods Fetal-MSCs were isolated from fetal tissues derived from ectopic pregnancy at eight and half and half weeks of gestation and studied for karyotypic stability, proliferation over successive passages, and expression of embryonal and mesenchymal markers using flow cytometry. The ability of BM-MSCs and Fetal-MSCs to differentiate into osteoblasts was assessed using alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alizarin red staining(ARS). The expression of osteogenic markers such as ALP, osteopontin(OPN), RUNX2, and osteocalcin(OCN) was evaluated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. mRNA sequencing was performed to identify the differences in gene expression between Fetal-MSCs and BM-MSCs. In addition, their effects were assessed in rat calvarial defect model using micro-computed tomography, immunohistochemistry, and histological examination. Results Fetal-MSCs were more efficient than BM-MSCs in promoting osteogenesis and had a greater bone regeneration capacityin vitroandin vivo. In particular, Hairy ears Y-linked (HEY)1andHEY2, which are involved in osteoblast development, showed a significantly high differential expression between Fetal-MSCs and BM-MSCs and were the key target genes in the Notch signaling pathway. Notch signaling plays a key role in the osteogenic differentiation of Fetal-MSCs. Conclusions We demonstrated for the first time that Notch signaling plays a key regulatory role in promoting the osteogenic differentiation of Fetal-MSCs. In addition, Fetal-MSCs with their strong bone formation ability may be a promising alternative to adult-derived MSCs for bone disease treatment.
Systematic evaluation and nursing outlook of clinical characteristics of 60 twin pregnancies with complete hydatidiform mole and a coexistent viable foetus
Authors: Yang Jing , Shi Zhan , Jia Shafeng , Liu Jia , Jiang Ling , Zhu Yueqin
Published: June 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Using AI to Identify Chest Radiographs with No Actionable Disease in Outpatient Imaging
Authors: Mansoor Awais , Schmuecking Ingo , Ghesu Florin-Cristian , Georgescu Bogdan , Grbic Sasa , Vishwanath R S , Farri Oladimeji , Gosh Rikhiya , Vunikili Ramya , Zimmermann Mathis , Sutcliffe James , Mendelsohn Steven , Gefter Warren , Comaniciu Dorin
Published: June 2023

Background: Chest radiographs are one of the most frequently performed imaging examinations in radiology. Chest radiograph reading is characterized by a high volume of cases, leading to long worklists. However, a substantial percentage of chest radiographs in outpatient imaging are without actionable findings. Identifying these cases could lead to numerous workflow efficiency improvements.
Objective: To assess the performance of an AI system to identify chest radiographs with no actionable disease (NAD) in an outpatient imaging population in the United States.
Materials and Methods: The study includes a random sample of 15,000 patients with chest radiographs in posterior-anterior (PA) and optional lateral projections from an outpatient imaging center with multiple locations in the Northeast United States. The ground truth was established by manually reviewing procedure reports and classifying cases as non-actionable disease (NAD) or actionable disease (AD) based on predetermined criteria. The NAD cases include both completely normal chest radiographs without any abnormal findings and radiographs with non-actionable findings. The AI NAD Analyzer1 trained on more than 1.3 million radiographs provides a binary case level output for the chest radiographs as either NAD or potential actionable disease (PAD). Two systems A (more specific) and B (more sensitive) were trained. Both systems were capable of processing either frontal only or frontal-lateral pair.
Results: After excluding patients < 18 years (n=861) as well as the cases not meeting the image quality requirements of the AI NAD Analyzer (n=82), 14057 cases (average age 56±16.1 years, 7722 women and 6328 men) remained for the analysis. The AI NAD Analyzer with input consisting of PA and lateral images, correctly classified 2891 cases as NAD with concordance between ground truth and AI, which is 20.6% of all cases and 29.1% of all ground truth NAD cases. The miss rate was 0.3% and included 0.06% significant findings. With a more specific version of the AI NAD Analyzer (System A), there were 12.2% of all NAD cases were identified correctly with a miss rate of 0.1%. No cases with critical findings were missed by either system.
Conclusion: The AI system can identify a meaningful number of chest radiographs with no actionable disease in an outpatient imaging population with a very low rate of missed findings.
1For research purposes only. Not for clinical use. Future commercial availability cannot be guaranteed.
Genomic and epidemiological analysis of SARS-CoV-2 variants isolated in Guinea: A routine sequencing implementation.
Authors: Mbaye Aminata , Diallo Haby , GNIMADI Thibaut , Kadio Kadio , SOUMAH Abdoul , Koivogui Joel , Monemou Jean , Povogui Moriba , KABA Djiba , HOUNMENOU Castro , SERRANO Laetitia , Butel Christelle , Fernandez Nicolas , VIDAL Nicole , Guichet Emilande , Delaporte Eric , Ayouba Ahidjo , Peeters Martine , Toure Abdoulaye , Keita Alpha
Published: June 2023

Background
Several variants of SARS-CoV-2 have a demonstrated impact on public health, including high and increased transmissibility, severity of infection and immune escape. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the genetic modifications and distribution of SARS-CoV-2 lineages and better characterize the dynamics of the pandemic during the different waves that occurred in Guinea.
Methods
Nasopharyngeal samples of 24638 and socio Demographic data were collected from consent patients in consultation at the health centers of Gbessia, Kenien and Matam, in the Republic of Guinea. Virus quantification of nasopharyngeal samples was performed by quantitative PCR. 363 samples with Ct values under 30 were sequenced on Illumina iSeq 100 platform. The sequences were then analyzed using GeVarli pipeline to generate consensus sequences, variants calling, and lineage classifications (using Nextclade and Pangolin). The phylogenetic tree was constructed using Nextstain tools. Statistical analysis was done using R programming.
Results
The circulation of SARS-CoV-2 in Guinea can be distributed in three periods independent to waves. The first lasting from May to June 2020 was characterized by one lineage B1 (n=6). The second period from January 2021 to July 2021 was characterized by the lineages B.1.1.7 (Alpha, n=25), AY.122 (Delta; n=2), B.1.1.318 (n=8), R1 (n=7), B.1.525 (n=9) and B.1.629 (n=13). The third period, between December 2021 and March 2023, was characterized by the Omicron variant, with nine sub-variants in the majority. In addition, detection of variants in the period out of there circulation were documented.
Conclusion
In summary, SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance projects like AFROSCREEN help African scientists to contribute to describe the natural history of the COVID epidemic and to implement a routine sequencing capacity using next generation sequencing platforms. This successful implementation system for SARS-CoV-2 must be adapted for other diseases. However, the organization of sample collection and conservation is a big challenge in Africa.
Climate Resilience of Public Health Preventive and Adaptive Measures Against Diarrhea in Northern Ghana: A Case Study of the Tamale Metropolitan Area
Authors: Abdul-Ganiu Zakaria , Shamsu-Deen Ziblim , Yakubu Amadu
Published: June 2023

Background Diarrhea remains one of the biggest public health threats in Ghana, and is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality among children in sub-Saharan Africa. Several preventive and adaptive public health measures, such as pneumococcal vaccination, Rota Virus vaccination, and improving access to potable water, are being implemented. Research exploring the climate resilience of preventive and adaptive measures in Ghana is sparse. This study aimed to determine whether preventative and adaptive interventions are climate resilient using morbidity data.Methods This study employs time series data of monthly all-cause diarrhea morbidity, rainfall, temperature, and relative humidity, spanning the period from January 2014 to December 2020. This study used the Auto Regression Distributed Lag cointegration approach to model the impact of climatic variables on all-cause Diarrheal Morbidity.Results The findings of the analysis demonstrate that public health prevention and adaptation strategies are climate-robust and unresponsive to changes in climatic variables. The residuals in the estimated models are white noise and do not exhibit serial autocorrelation or conditional heteroscedasticity.Conclusion In the Tamale Metropolitan Area, climate change does not affect diarrhea morbidity, supporting the claim that climate resilience is an important component of public health preventive interventions against diarrhea
Understanding the Crustal Architecture Beneath the Bangui Magnetic Anomaly and Its Interactions With Central African Tectonic Megastructures Based Gravity and Magnetic Analysis
Authors: Tchoukeu Cyrille Donald Njiteu , Djomani Yvette Poudjom , Mickus Kevin , Rousse Sonia , Sobh Mohamed , Basseka Charles , Etame Jacques
Published: June 2023

The Bangui magnetic anomaly (BMA) in Central Africa is one of the largest continental magnetic anomalies on Earth in terms of amplitude and lateral size. Determining the sources of the BMA can lead to an increased understanding of the crustal dynamic in the Central African sub-region and the African continent as a whole. Magnetic and gravity analysis-based derivative, two-dimensional forward modelling and a Curie isothermal depth, showed that (a) the bottoms of the magnetic sources were between 15 and 35 km; (b) the BMA is a coalescence of several anomalies that trend E-W and roughly NE-SW. These directions coincide with regional Pan African-aged shear zones along the Central African orogenic belt and to thrust sheets at the northern edge of the Congo Craton. The depth of magnetization does not exceed 35 km with the amplitude of magnetization becoming smaller in the Central African Republic. The potential magnetic susceptibility sources have an average density of 2850 kg/m3 and magnetic susceptibilities between 0.06 and 0.25 SI. The BMA is interpreted to be a combination of middle and lower crustal bodies that are not continuous and consist of magnetic mineral rich granulites and banded iron formations. The gravity and magnetic modelling indicate that the entire crust was involved in the Pan African collisional event similar to what is seen in the Mozambique belt in East Africa. Combined with geological and geochemical studies, the models add evidence that one or two subduction zones were involved in accreting terranes on the northern edge of the Congo Craton. The tectonic accretions caused a crustal remobilization along major shear zones that has locally contributed to a probable circulation of fluids enriched in ferromagnesian minerals during late Neoproterozoic magmatism that created the BMA sources.
Strengthening Access to Cancer Medicines for Children in East Africa: Policy Options to Enhance Medicine Procurement, Forecasting, and Regulations
Authors: Petricca Kadia , Carson Laura , Kambugu Joyce , Denburg Avram
Published: June 2023

Gaps in access to quality essential medicines remain a major impediment to effective care of children with cancer in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). The World Health Organization reports that less than 30% of LMICs have consistent availability of childhood cancer medicines, compared to over 95% in high-income countries. This outcome is due to a number of factors, principal among them market inefficiencies that limit availability of affordable products, supply chain disruptions, inadequate data for evidence-based forecasting and procurement, and limited targeted policy and financing for childhood cancer. Information provided within this policy brief is drawn from review of literature and a mixed-methods study that analyzed determinants of cancer medicine access for children in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. The study objectives were to prospectively track and analyze availability and cost of essential chemotherapeutic and supportive care medicines, and investigate determinants of medicine access. Three key policy options are presented to guide critical health system planning for strengthening access to cancer medicines for children: pooled procurement, evidence-based forecasting, and regional harmonization of regulatory processes. This policy brief is intended for policy-makers, clinicians, and health-system planners involved in procurement, supply chain management, policy and financing of childhood cancer medicines.
Evaluation of Technical Standards of Selected Physical Soil and Water Conservation Practices and Community Participation in Sekela, Layguder Watershed, Source of Blue Nile, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Gojjam Amare , Fisseha Getachew , Atinafu Mamaru
Published: June 2023

This study has been conducted to evaluate technical standards of selected physical soil and water conservation practices (SWC) and to asses’ community participation in Layguder watershed. The study was conducted using field measurements, group discussion and (Fifty-seven) household survey. Measurements were taken from these soil bunds, trenches, cut-off drain and waterway from three separate slope classes (3–8% lower, 8–15% middle, and 15–30% upper slope). The recommended value was analyzed using t-test statistics (p < 0.05). The household survey data was analyzed by descriptive statistics using the basic Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS-16). The result revealed that soil bund ditch depth, and bottom embankment, bund spacing at 3–8 slope classes top width at lower slope class, depth and berm at all slope class were smaller in magnitude but closer to the standards. Narrow spacing between bunds was taking more area and require labor thus, they have not community acceptance by 61%, of the total respondents. The household participation in the implementation of SWC activity was high, while their participation in the planning, monitoring and evaluation and corrective action was low.
Informal mindfulness practices: A new approach to the prevention and treatment of parental burnout
Authors: Urbanowicz Agata M. , Shankland Rebecca , Rance Jaynie , Bennett Paul , Gauchet Aurélie
Published: June 2023

The present study assessed the effectiveness of informal mindfulness practice among parents in terms of parental burnout prevention and treatment. The objective was to test a new approach based on informal mindfulness practices, the FOVEA programme, implemented in daily activities rather than based on formal meditations. Indeed, traditional mindfulness programmes (e.g., MBCT, MBSR) require a 45-minute daily meditation practice which can be difficult to include in parents’ tight schedules, and even more for parents suffering from or at risk of parental burnout. In contrast, the FOVEA programme was designed to enhance the awareness of the present moment in ecological context mainly using the five senses and awareness of breath and body sensations. We tested the hypothesis that compared to the waitlist control group parents participating in the programme would present a greater reduction of parental burnout scores following the intervention. Compared to the control group, the results revealed a statistically significant large effect of FOVEA intervention on parental burnout severity. Thus, informal mindfulness practices could be a means of effectively preventing and reducing parental burnout.
Mechanism of Arabidopsis circ032768 Response to drought
Authors: Yin Zihe , Zhao Qiuyu , Lv Xiurong , Zhang Xuzhe , Wu Yongjun
Published: June 2023

CircRNAs (CircularRNAs) reduce the abundance of mirnas (micrornas) in the way of competin gendogenousRNA, so as to regulate many physiological processes and stress responses in plants.However, little is known about the role of circRNA in drought stress.In this study, sequencing and biological analysis confirmed that circ032768, miR472 and RPS5 were responsive to drought stress, and the changes of gene expression were consistent with the prediction mechanism of ceRNA.The silencing vectors of circ032768 and STTM-miR472 were constructed by molecular biology techniques, and stable transgenic plants with drought tolerance were obtained.Further physiological and biochemical studies showed that circ032768 could bind to miR472, and miR472 could bind to RPS5 resistance gene, resulting in decreased expression of RPS5 gene.That is, circ032768 can competitively inhibit miR472 degradation of RPS5 in the manner of ceRNA.Thus, through the circ032768-miR472-RPS5 pathway, the RPS5 stress tolerance protein interacts with DREB2A protein to enhance the expression of downstream drought resistance genes RD29A and RD29B to participate in the drought resistance regulation mechanism of plants, so as to improve the drought tolerance of plants.
Anxiolytic-like effects of the dual orexin receptor antagonist daridorexant in rats
Authors: Locher Rebekka , Lecourt Hugues , Jenck Francois , Steiner Michel
Published: June 2023

Dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs) belong to a novel class of sleep medications that function by blocking the actions of wakefulness-promoting orexin neuropeptides in sleep-wake centers of the brain. Orexins also transmit signals to brain nuclei that regulate emotions and stress responses. The effects of DORAs on anxiety-like reactions requires further exploration. The hyperarousal theory of insomnia suggests an underlying overactivation of the body’s stress response systems, and a considerable proportion of insomnia patients suffers from concurrent anxiety disorders. Hence, it is important for physicians to be certain that novel insomnia treatments do not exacerbate, but rather alleviate, patients’ anxiety and psychological stress responses. Our aim was to test the effect of the new DORA daridorexant on diverse anxiety- and fear-evoked behavioral and physiological reactions in rats to gain first insight into the drug’s potential in humans. Daridorexant, given orally at 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg 1 h before testing, resulted in a dose-dependent reduction of fear-potentiated acoustic startle (FPS) reactions, schedule-induced polydipsia (SIP) and social stress-induced hyperthermia and tachycardia (SIH/T). Furthermore, under non-stressful, basal conditions, daridorexant also reduced heart rate in spontaneously hypertensive rats, which are a model of endogenous sympathetic hyperactivation that can occur in insomnia or anxiety disorders. Daridorexant had no effect on ultrasound-induced, panic-like, defensive behavior (UIDB). We conclude that daridorexant rather attenuated and did not enhance fear/stress responses in rats. It was effective in models that simulate endophenotypes that are specific for post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive, and social anxiety disorder.
In Vitro Digestibility and Fermentation Kinetics of Agricultural By-product used as feed for Sheep in Trinidad, West Indies
Authors: Daniella Elizabeth Scott Mikeilah , Hughes Martin P. , Jones Kegan Romelle
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study was to determine the in vitro digestibility and gas production of agro-industrial by-products fed to sheep. This was done to determine the effectiveness of agro by-products as alternative feedstuff for sheep to reduce the importation of foreign feed ingredients. Two alternative feeds were formulated using the following by products: cocoa hulls and shells (CHS), coconut seed meal (CSM), powdered bean (PB), Moruga Hill rice bran (RB), Moruga Hill rice hulls (RH), corn stover (CS) and seaweed. In vitro gas production was measured for all three feeds treatments for a total of 72h. The three feed treatments consisted of a formulated sheep and goat ration from a local feed mill (T1) and two pelleted feeds prepared using alternative feed ingredients that were mentioned above (T2 and T3). Chemical composition of the commercial feed (T1) had higher crude protein content (CP) than the alternative feeds. However, dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), ash, NDF, ADF and ADL were higher in the alternative feeds. In vitro, ruminal fermentation kinetics results showed that gas production from the immediately soluble fraction (a) was significantly different (p < 0.05) for the T1 as compared to T2 and T3. Potential degradability (PD) also showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the feed treatments. Fermentation parameters showed that there was a significant difference for metabolizable energy (ME) for all tree feeds (p < 0.05), organic matter degradability and methane (CH4) production was significantly different (p < 0.05) for the commercial feed (T1) compared to the alternative feeds (T2, T3). The agricultural by product feeds had slower degradability in comparison to the conventional feeds. However, the alterative feeds had less gas and methane production in comparison to the conventional feeds. Thus, the agricultural by product feeds can be utilized as an alternative to feed sheep due to its low gas and methane production. Therefore, these by-product feeds can be a suitable alternative for sustainable sheep production in the tropics.
Adapting REDCap for COVID-19 Laboratory Data Management in Botswana - Experiences, Lessons and Challenges
Authors: Ndlovu Kagiso , Mauco Kabelo Leonard , Makhura Onalenna , Hu Robin , Motlogelwa Nkwebi , Masizana Audrey , Lo Emily , Mphoyakgosi Thongbotho , Moyo Sikhulile
Published: June 2023

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges requiring timely health data sharing to inform decision making on appropriate interventions at a national level. To streamline the collection and integration of data, we designed and piloted a workflow utilizing the REDCap platform. Our approach focused on establishing efficient COVID-19 data flows within a national public health laboratory, enabling seamless integration with the national district health information management system (DHIS2). This integration facilitated an automated centralized reporting of COVID-19 results at the Ministry of Health. This paper reports the experiences, challenges and lessons learnt while designing, adapting, and implementing REDCap to support COVID-19 data management at the National Health Lab in Botswana.
Methods
A participatory design approach was adopted to guide the design, customization, and implementation of the REDCap platform in support of COVID-19 data management at the NHL. Twenty-nine NHL and four Ministry of Health personnel participated in the study, effective from 02 March 2020 to 30 June 2020. Participants’ requirements for an ideal COVID-19 data management system were established. NVivo 11 software supported thematic analysis of the challenges and resolutions identified during this study. These were categorized according to four themes of Infrastructure, Capacity Development, Platform constraints, and Interoperability.
Results
Overall, REDCap supported a majority of perceived technical and non-technical requirements for an ideal COVID-19 data management system at the NHL. Although some implementation challenges were identified, each had mitigation strategies such as procurement of mobile internet routers, engagement of senior management to resolve conflicting policies, continuous REDCap training, and the development of a third-party web application to enhance REDCap’s capabilities. Lessons learnt informed next steps and further refinement of the REDCap platform.
Conclusion
Implementation of REDCap at the NHL to streamline COVID-19 data collection and integration with national systems was feasible despite its emergency implementation during the pandemic. By piloting and implementing the REDCap workflow at a national public health laboratory, we demonstrated feasibility for centralized reporting of COVID-19 cases, enabling timely and informed decision-making at the national level. Challenges faced presented lessons learnt to inform sustainable implementation of digital health innovations in a resource-constrained environment.
Pathogen Analysis of Mumps-like Cases Using Metagenomic Nanopore Sequencing Technology
Authors: Han Taoli , Gao Yan , Jiao Yang , Zhao Jianhong , Zhang Shu , Gu Lin , Zhao Yuqian , Li Zhen , Cao Yang , Zhang Jian , Sun Lingli
Published: June 2023

The detection rate of mumps virus in specimens from clinical diagnostic cases of Mumps is generally low. In order to understand the possible pathogens of Mumps-like cases, this study examined the possible pathogens in parotid throat swabs from 22 Mumps-like cases (Case group) and 17 healthy individuals (Control group) by Metagenomic nanopore sequencing technology. For the suspected pathogens found between Case group and Control group, real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction （qPCR）was used for detection and confirmation. At the same time, SPSS 23.0 software was used to statistically compare the significant difference of two groups. It was no significant difference about the detection result of pathogenic bacteria were found in two groups by metagenomic sequencing. Human parainfluenza virus 3(HPIV-3) was detected only in 5 cases in the former, while human herpesvirus 7(HHV-7) was detected in 4 and 6 cases in Case group and Control group, respectively. Further statistical analysis revealed that the difference in the HPIV-3 detection rate between Case group and Control group was statistically significant (X2=9.186, P=0.011), while the HHV-7 detection rate was not statistically significant (X2=0.364, P=0.393). These findings suggested that HPIV-3 may be available pathogen responsible for Mumps-like cases in the investigation area, and attention should be paid to the differential diagnosis and reporting of Mumps, and etiological surveillance and detection should be strengthened.
Effect of comorbid heart failure on the activities of daily living and walking independence in patients with hospitalization-associated disability after aspiration pneumonia
Authors: Tamamura Yusuke , Matsuura Michiko , Shiba Sumiko , Nishikimi Toshio
Published: June 2023

Purpose In developed countries, the numbers of patients with aspiration pneumonia is increasing as their populations rapidly age, as is the number of patients with heart failure. In addition, aspiration pneumonia in the elderly often develops as a hospitalization-associated disability. The purpose of this retrospective observational cohort study was to investigated the effects of comorbid heart failure on rehabilitation outcomes in patients with hospitalization-associated disability after aspiration pneumonia.Methods This study included 118 patients admitted to convalescent rehabilitation wards with hospitalization-associated disability after aspiration pneumonia. Based on their plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels, patients were classified into non-heart failure (BNP < 100 pg/ml, n = 82) and heart failure (BNP ≧ 100 pg/ml, n = 36) groups. Rehabilitation outcomes were rehabilitation effectiveness (REs) and walking independence rate at discharge.Results REs was higher in the non-heart failure group than the heart failure group (32.0 ± 29.2% vs 20.0 ± 23.0%, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis with REs as the dependent variable revealed that age (p < 0.05), quadriceps strength (p < 0.05), the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (p < 0.01) and BNP (p < 0.05) were significantly associated with REs. The rate of independent walking at discharge in the non-heart failure group (48.8%) was significantly higher than in the heart failure group (25.0%).Discussion These results suggest that comorbid heart failure has a negative impact on rehabilitation outcomes in patients with hospital-associated disability after aspiration pneumonia. Heart failure assessed based on plasma BNP levels is useful for predicting REs and walking ability at discharge in patients with hospital-associated disability after aspiration pneumonia.
Cohabitation in termite nests: inquilines are habituated and attracted to hosts cues
Authors: Cruz Joseane Santos , Santana Daniela Lucio , Santos Amanda Teixeira , Bacci Leandro , Cristaldo Paulo Fellipe , Araujo Ana Paula Albano
Published: June 2023

Termite colonies are protected by the physical structure of the nest as well as by an elaborate system of recognition against intruders. Nevertheless, the defensive system does not always prevent colonization of termite nests by other species. Here, we analyzed whether the host-inquiline cohabitation could occur through mechanisms related to the specificity of chemical cue acquisition by inquilines or through avoidance, testing the hypotheses that(i)there is lower survival and greater aggressiveness between host and inquiline coming from different nests than between those from the same nest;(ii)there is lower survival between host and inquiline coming from the nests of different locals than between those species from the same local; and(ii)intestinal or body cues may be repellent for inquilines or hosts. Manipulative bioassays were conducted pairing hosts and inquilines coming from the same and different nests. Our results showed that although there was greater mortality of the host and inquiline in close contact, they showed mutual recognition of cues without displaying any aggressive behavior. The host was attracted by inquiline body cues and the inquiline was attracted by the host’s intestinal and body cues. Hosts did not distinguish inquilines from different nests in the same locality; however, inquilines seemed to be more habituated to their own host nests than to other nests. Our results suggest that local and genetic factors may be related to cues involved in this coexistence. Therefore, under natural conditions, we hypothesized that mechanisms, such as segregation and camouflaging, could maintain cohabitation.
Rapid purification and multiparametric characterization of circulating small extracellular vesicles utilizing a label-free lab-on-a-chip device
Authors: Sharma Manju , Sheth Maulee , Poling Holly , Kuhnell Damaris , Langevin Scott , Esfandiari Leyla
Published: June 2023

Nano-scale extracellular vesicles are lipid-bilayer delimited particles that are naturally secreted by all cells and have emerged as valuable biomarkers for a wide range of diseases. Efficient isolation of small extracellular vesicles while maintaining yield and purity is crucial to harvest their potential in diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic applications. Most conventional methods of isolation suffer from significant shortcomings, including low purity or yield, long duration, need for large sample volumes, specialized equipment, trained personnel, and high costs. To address some of these challenges, our group has reported a novel insulator-based dielectrophoretic device for rapid isolation of small extracellular vesicles from biofluids and cell culture media based on their size and dielectric properties. In this study, we report a comprehensive characterization of small extracellular vesicles isolated from cancer-patients’ biofluids using the device. The three-fold characterization that was performed using conventional flow cytometry, advanced imaging flow cytometry, and microRNA sequencing indicated high yield and purity of the isolated small extracellular vesicles. The device thus offers an efficient platform for rapid isolation while maintaining biomolecular integrity.
An Agent-Based Modeling Simulation Study in China: Will Adjusting Medical Insurance Reimbursement Rates Impact Hierarchical Diagnosis and Treatment?
Authors: Zhao Ning , Yang Jia , Gu Mei , Li Jin , Li Danhui , Ju Wensheng , Guo Moning
Published: June 2023

Background
Promoting hierarchical diagnosis and treatment is important to deepen medical reform in China. One effective way to achieve this goal is by implementing medical insurance payment policies. Currently, China uses differentiated reimbursement rates for medical insurance to steer patients toward hospitals of different levels.
Objective
To study the medical services-seeking behaviors of hypertensive inpatients in response to the change in the basic medical insurance policy of urban residents and the impact on medical insurance expenses, and to promote hierarchical diagnosis and treatment and improve the allocation efficiency of health resources.
Methods
This study utilized agent modeling simulation to establish a simulation system consisting of four models of patients, diseases, hospitals, and policies. Based on data from urban residents and different levels of hospitals in Beijing from 2015 to 2017, the medical service-seeking behavior of hypertensive inpatients at different levels of hospitals was observed by adjusting the reimbursement rate of medical insurance to find the optimal decision point to balance patients' medical-seeking behavior and medical insurance fund control.
Results
Modifying hospital reimbursement rates at different levels can impact patient flow and medical insurance fund utilization. Increasing the reimbursement rate for primary hospitals encouraged more patients to seek care at these facilities. When the reimbursement rates of the primary, secondary, and tertiary hospitals were 95%, 85%, and 70%, respectively, the highest proportion of hypertensive inpatients seeking care at primary hospitals was observed while ensuring the best balance between the proportion of primary hospital visits and total expenditure of the medical insurance fund.
Conclusion
Our system model complements the traditional qualitative and quantitative research methods and provides a better simulation and prediction of the impact of medical insurance policy adjustment on patients' medical treatment choice behavior and medical insurance fund expenditure. A linkage mechanism of medical and pharmaceutical policies is proposed to promote the synergy of health insurance policies. Enhancing the capacity of primary hospitals is crucial for promoting hierarchical diagnosis and treatment, and the adjustment of medical insurance payment policy can only serve as a means to achieve this goal.
Demystifying Carbon Removals in the Context of Sub-Global Net-Zero Targets
Authors: Pehrs Malin , Ahonen Hanna-Mari , Spalding-Fecher Randall , Möllersten Kenneth
Published: June 2023

The concepts of net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and GHG-neutrality are emerging as fundamental principles for initiatives to address climate change ranging from the global to the corporate scale. Offsetting emissions by using carbon credits features in many sub-global net-zero and GHG-neutrality claims and pledges. This paper shows that regardless of whether a sub-global entity offsets its emissions using carbon credits based on GHG emission reductions or removals, the outcome in terms of impact on net global GHG emissions is the same. Despite this, assertions that the use of carbon credits based on emission reductions is insufficient in the context of offsetting emissions for net-zero claims at sub-global scales are gaining acceptance. This article argues that such assertions are based on an incorrect setting of assessment boundaries and related misconceptions. Path choices for the share of carbon credit demand from emission reductions versus removals have important implications for the possibility to reach global climate goals and should be guided by the robust application of relevant GHG accounting principles. The results presented in this article have fundamental implications for what kind of GHG mitigation action may be considered adequate in relation to entities’ claims concerning making no contribution to net accumulation of GHG in the atmosphere.
Validity and Reliability of the Portable Metabolic Analyzer PNOE to assess cardiometabolic capacity during walking exercise
Authors: Kwok Manny M.Y. , Ng Shamay S. M. , So Billy C. L.
Published: June 2023

Background
The accuracy of measurement of cardiometabolic functions of individuals is crucial. The objective of this study was to compare the validity and reliability of the PNOE in measuring cardiometabolic outcomes in the expired air of healthy individuals, during a treadmill walking protocol.
Methods
A total of 21 subjects (15 male, 6 females) aged 22.76 ± 3.85 years took part in this study. Oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), metabolic equivalent (MET), ventilatory threshold (VT), energy expenditure (EE) was measured by PNOE and COSMED K5 portable systems during a four-stage incremental protocol on a treadmill. Test-retest reliability was tested on separate days with trail repetition. Validity was evaluated by Bland-Altman plots, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and mean percentage difference.
Results
ICC found in VCO2 is in the good range (0.75–0.90). ICC of RER from level 1–3 and VT of level 2–4 fall in good to excellent reliability. No specific pattern seen on VO2, VCO2 and EE on the changes of CV upon speeds variations. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was moderately high (r = 0.60–0.79) between metabolic variables measured by PNOE and K5 systems. All subjects, except few more cases in VT, lie within the upper and lower 95% confidence intervals acceptance range of the Bland Altman plots.
Conclusion
PNOE system is a valid and reliable measure for cardiometabolic outcomes and is as comparable to COSMED K5 system.
Simulation of the improved parameterization scheme for snow radiation effect over the Tibetan Plateau on the impact of summer rainfall in China
Authors: An Yingying , Meng Xianhong , Zhao Lin , Li Zhaoguo , Wang Chan , Chen Hao , Shang Lunyu , Wang Shaoying , Wang Shiwen , Liu Yumeng
Published: June 2023

The radiation effect of snow cover on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) impacts East Asia's weather and climate by affecting the local energy balance. Given the overestimation of snow cover on the TP in the model, the Noah with Multiparameterization options (Noah-MP) surface model was used in the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) to modify the fresh snow density scheme and soil texture on the TP to improve the model's simulation of snow-related parameters. Then further analyze the impact of the improved scheme on the summer rainfall simulation in China. The results show significant snow cover on the TP in winter 2012, with average surface albedo and snow cover fraction (SCF) of 0.32 and 34.30%, respectively. The WRF control experiment (CTL) overestimates the surface albedo and SCF of the TP, with a simulated average winter albedo of 0.54. The simulated SCF improved by 8% in the experiment with modified fresh snow density and soil texture on the TP (FSD) compared to the CTL. Larger snow cover in winter on the TP leads to excessive rainfall in Southern China and less precipitation in the mid-lower reaches of the Yangtze River in the summer of 2012. Compared with the observed rainfall, the deviations in South China, North China, and Yellow River basins in China simulated by the WRF FSD are significantly reduced. The spatial correlation coefficient between the observed-based and WRF-simulated rainfall increases from 0.76 in CTL to 0.88 in FSD. The simulated snow cover on the TP in the improved WRF experiment is smaller than that in the CTL, causing a decrease in surface albedo and an increase in sensible heat flux. The continued melting of snow leads to an increase in latent heat flux, a decrease in sensible heat flux, and a weakening of diabatic heating. The diabatic heating changes on the TP in the improved experiment further enhanced the westerly jet in the jet exit area. The low-level anticyclonic circulation from the South China Sea to the Bay of Bengal is also anomalous, affecting the water vapor transport processes. The results illustrated and emphasized that improving the simulation of snow accumulation and melting processes on the TP contributes to improving rainfall simulation in the mid-lower reaches of the Yangtze River in climate models.
Development of a causal model of self-regulated learning by students at Loei Rajabhat University
Authors: Kumyoung Anuphum , Kessung Patthraporn , Pinasa Chaimongkhon , Srijumn Jutamas , Inyai Chao
Published: June 2023

Background Self-regulation learning are behaviors based on the concepts of self-regulation and learning in social cognitive theory. Self-regulation is the process of controlling one's own thoughts, behaviors, and emotions to acquire new skills through one's own motivation and action. Examining the congruence between a causal model of self-regulated learning and empirical data, as well as investigating the direct and indirect effects, were the aims of this study. Methods In the model for 660 students at Loei Rajabhat University, the data were analyzed using structural equation modeling, which is implemented in the LISREL software package. Results The research results show that the causal model of self-regulated learning was congruent with the empirical data. Self-efficacy, achievement motive, and learning by imitation had direct effects on self-regulated learning at a statistical significance of 0.01, while achievement motive and learning by imitation had indirect effects on self-regulated learning via the self-efficacy variable with a statistical significance of 0.01. The variables of learning by imitation and achievement motive were able to explain the variance of the variables of self-regulated learning and self-efficacy at percentages of 73.60% and 72.10%, respectively. Conclusions This research suggests that teachers should organize teaching and learning activities that promote achievement motivation and develop self-efficacy, and they should be good role models for students. All parties, including administrators, should implement policies that promote and develop activities to create incentives for achievement. Self-efficacy and learning by imitation are necessary for students to practice self-regulated learning in the future.
Characterization of phenotypic traits associated with anthracnose resistance in selected common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) breeding material
Authors: Kadege Edith , Venkataramana Pavithravani , Assefa Teshale Assefa , Girma Ellena , Ndunguru Joseph , Mukankusi Clare , Rubyogo Jean Claude , Mbega Ernest
Published: June 2023

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is the major common bean disease worldwide. This study aimed to determine phenotypic traits associated with anthracnose resistance for future use in breeding programmes. Twenty-two common bean varieties (CBVs) were planted in anthracnose hotspot fields and the same CBVs were planted in a screen house to validate resistance to anthracnose. Anthracnose infection score, leaf length, leaf width, length of fifth internode, length of petiole, plant vigour, canopy height and canopy width were recorded. Data on (i) number of plants emerging; (ii) days to flowering; (iii) days to maturity; (iv) plant stands at harvest; and (v) grain yield were also collected and analysed using R and GenStat software. Phenotypic traits evaluated differed significantly among genotypes, environment and genotype by environment interaction. Seventy-five per cent of phenotypic traits evaluated were positively correlated to anthracnose resistance. Highly-strong correlations were observed on number of days to maturity, plant stands at harvest, plant vigour and grain yield. Leaf length, leaf width, length of fifth internode, length of petiole and number of stands emerging were strongly correlated to anthracnose resistance. Based on study results, four traits – plant vigour, number of days to maturity, number of plant stands at harvest and grain yield – are recommended for selecting anthracnose-resistant varieties. NUA 48, NUA 64 and RWR 2154 were superior varieties, resistant to anthracnose and high yielding, while Sweet Violet and VTT 923-23-10 were most stable varieties across environments. Further on-farm research is suggested to assess their performance and identify traits preferred by farmers.