bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiently Sparse Listing of Classes of Optimal Cophylogeny Reconciliations
Authors: Wang Yishu , Mary Arnaud , Sagot Marie-France , Sinaimeri Blerina
Published: November 2021

Background: Cophylogeny reconciliation is a powerful method for analyzing host-parasite (or host-symbiont) co-evolution. It models co-evolution as an optimization problem where the set of all optimal solutions may represent different biological scenarios which thus need to be analyzed separately. Despite the significant research done in the area, few approaches have addressed the problem of helping the biologist deal with the often huge space of optimal solutions.Results: In this paper, we propose a new approach to tackle this problem. We introduce three different criteria under which two solutions may be considered biologically equivalent, and then we propose polynomial-delay algorithms that enumerate only one representative per equivalence class (without listing all the solutions).Conclusions: Our results are of both theoretical and practical importance. Indeed, as shown by the experiments, we are able to significantly reduce the space of optimal solutions while still maintaining important biological information about the whole space.
Effects of Multi-Scale Climate Change on The Distribution of Invasive Insect Populations and The Development of Ecological Services: A Case Study of Zeugodacus Cucurbitae (Coquillett)
Authors: Lian Yuyang , Wang Aqiang , Zeng Bei , Yang Heming , Li Jinlei , Peng Sihua , Zhou Shihao
Published: November 2021

In order to clarify the effects of multi-scale climate change on the population distribution and ecological service function of Z.cucurbitae, this paper analyzed its suitable distribution area Z.cucurbitae in a wide scale using the MaxEnt ecological model. Z.cucurbitae were exposed under short-term high temperatures of 33°C, 37°C, 41°C and 45°C for 1h, which were set based on recorded high temperatures in the field. The effects of these temperatures on development and reproduction of Z.cucurbitae in successive three generations were evaluated. The results showed that under current climatic conditions, the suitable regions of Z.cucurbitae included most of South America, southeast North America, sub-Saharan Africa, part of Oceania and southern coastal areas of Asia. Under two carbon emissions scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5), the suitable area of Z.cucurbitae will expand compared to that under current environment and this expansion will generally be northwards. Short-term high temperature was not conducive to the development and reproduction of Z.cucurbitae. The F1 Z.cucurbitae exposed under 45°C for 1h stimulated its oviposition, and the offspring can still continue the population. When the offspring were continuously exposed to short-term high temperature until the F3, they could not oviposit. In the context of climate change, both large-scale and small-scale changes will affect the distribution and population breeding of Z.cucurbitae, which will lead to local sudden outbreak or migration disaster. Therefore, a broad-scale distribution analysis of all populations as a whole will result in a narrow ecological niche and may fail to predict the effects of some local small-scale habitat changes.
Impacts of a delayed and slow-paced vaccination on cases and deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic: a modelling study
Authors: Libotte Gustavo , Anjos Lucas , de Almeida Regina Célia Cerqueira , Malta Sandra Mara , Medronho Roberto
Published: November 2021

Background: In Brazil, vaccination has always been cutting across party political and ideological lines, which have delayed its start and brought the whole process into disrepute. Such divergences put the immunisation of the population in the background and create additional hurdles beyond the pandemic, mistrust and scepticism over vaccines.Methods: We conduct a mathematical modelling study to analyse the impacts of late vaccination and with slowly increasing coverage, as well as how harmful it would be if part of the population refused to get vaccinated or missed the second dose. We analyse data from confirmed cases, deaths caused by COVID-19, and vaccination in the state of Rio de Janeiro in the period between March 10, 2020, and October 27, 2021. The classical SIR model is extended to consider the effect of vaccination (efficacy, interval between doses, and vaccination rate) and data sets are regularised using Gaussian Process Regression. The model parameter distributions are estimated using Bayesian inference, aiming to obtain credible intervals in the simulations.Findings: We estimate that if the start of vaccination had been 30 days earlier, combined with efforts to drive vaccination rates up, 31,657 (25,801–35,117) deaths could have been averted. Our results also indicate that the slow pace of vaccination and the low demand for the second dose could cause a resurgence of cases as early as 2022.Interpretation: The government's inaction and lack of a strategic plan to fight the pandemic meant that vaccination started late, leading to thousands of deaths that could have been prevented. Even when reaching the expected vaccination coverage for the first dose, it is still challenging to increase adherence to the second dose and maintain a high vaccination rate to avoid new outbreaks.Funding: Carlos Chagas Filho Foundation for Supporting Research in the State of Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ) and Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq).
Spa Diversity and Genetic Characterization of t127 Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus in a Tertiary Greek Hospital
Authors: Tsergouli Katerina , Karampatakis Theodoros , Kontopoulou Konstantina , Pappa Styliani , Kampouridou Parthena , Kallasidou Georgia , Tsioka Katerina , Zotou Sophia , Farmaki Eleftheria-Eugenia , Kotzamanidis Charalampos , Papa Anna
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) causes severe community and hospital acquired infections. Identification of staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec), multilocus-sequence typing, and sequencing of S. aureus protein A (spa) gene are used for MRSA typing. The aim was to investigate the spa types of MRSA isolates in a tertiary hospital in Greece and analyse the whole genome sequences of two t127 MRSA isolates. Methods: Totally, 39 MRSA isolates collected during July 2019 to June 2020 in “Georgios Gennimatas” General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Greece, were included in the study. Identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed using VITEK II automated system, and spa typing was performed. A minimum spanning tree was used to display the spa type frequencies and the genetic distances among them. Two t127-MRSA isolates (IM-MRSA and PD-MRSA) were selected for WGS.Results: Twenty-two different spa types were detected, with t002, t003, and t422 being the most frequent (5/39, 12.8% each), followed by t1994 (4/39, 10.3%). The isolates presented high genetic diversity and, taking into account the time between hospital admission and sampling, intrahospital spread did not occur. Even the two t127 isolates were assigned to different sequence types, ST9-XII-t127 and ST1-IVa-t127. Plasmids and genes conferring antimicrobial resistance and virulence were also identified.Conclusions: Various spa types were identified and together with the information about the time between hospital admission and sampling supports polyclonal MRSA spread in the hospital excluding a nosocomial infection. WGS provides a more detailed analysis distinguishing even the isolates belonging to the same spa type.
ASXL1 Mutations with Serum EPO Levels Predict a Poor Response to Darbepoetin Alfa in Lower-Risk MDS: W-JHS MDS01 Trial
Authors: Morita Yasuyoshi , Nannya Yasuhito , Ichikawa Motoshi , Hanamoto Hitoshi , Shibayama Hirohiko , Maeda Yoshinobu , Hata Tomoko , Miyamoto Toshihiro , Kawabata Hiroshi , Takeuchi Kazuto , Kishimoto Junji , Tanaka Hiroko , Miyano Satoru , Matsumura Itaru , Ogawa Seishi , Akashi Koichi , Kanakura Yuzuru , Mitani Kinuko
Published: November 2021

Darbepoetin alfa (DA) is often used in treating anemia of lower-risk (IPSS low or int-1) myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). However, whether mutations can predict effectiveness of DA has not been examined. The present study aimed to determine gene mutations for predicting therapeutic effect of DA. Primary endpoint was correlation between the presence of highly frequent (≥10%) mutations and hematological improvement erythroid according to IWG criteria 2006 by DA (240 μg/week) until week 16. Included were 79 patients (age 29-90, median 77.0 years; 52 [65.8%] male). Frequently (≥10%) mutated genes were SF3B1 (24 cases, 30.4%), TET2 (20, 25.3%), SRSF2 (10, 12.7%), ASXL1 (9, 11.4%), and DNMT3A (8, 10.1%). Overall response rate to DA was 70.9%. Multivariable analysis including baseline erythropoietin levels and red blood cell transfusion volumes as variables revealed that erythropoietin levels and mutations of ASXL1 gene were significantly associated with worse response (odds ratio 0.146, 95% confidence interval 0.042-0.503; p=0.0023, odds ratio 0.175, 95% confidence interval 0.033-0.928; p=0.0406, respectively). This study indicated that anemic patients who show higher erythropoietin levels and harbor ASXL1 gene mutations may have poor response to DA. The alternative strategies are needed for the treatment of anemia in this population. Trial registration number and date of registration: UMIN000022185 & 09/05/2016.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of the Electronic and Optical Properties of Pure and Interstitial Nitrogen -Doped (TiO2)n Cluster
Authors: Kakil Shaida , Abdullah Hewa Y , Abdullah Tahseen G.
Published: November 2021

The structural and electronic properties of pure and nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoclusters are investigated using density functional theory (DFT) with vibrational modes. We performed numerical simulation using two methods based on theories at the Quantum Espresso/PBE and Gaussian/B3LYP/631G (d) levels. The properties of a single nitrogen-doped (TiO2)n nanocluster are also computed in this study. In both cases, interstitial and substitutional Nitrogen doping at all accessible sites was examined. For the experiment, Supersonic Cluster Beam Deposition (SCBD) was used to create pure and nitrogen-doped TiO2 films of nanocluster assemblies. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-Vis spectroscopy, and Raman techniques were used to characterize these samples. The binding energies (Np, O2s, Ti 2p1/2, and Ti 2p3/2) of N-doped TiO2 were estimated using XPS spectral results. The UV-Vis measurement confirmed the previously stated reasoning about the quantum size effect on the band gap of the pure and nitrogen doped TiO2 nanocluster. The theoretical vibrational modes frequencies are calculated using the B3LYP/6-31G (d) functional via the Gaussian16 code's implementation algorithm. The good agreement between simulation and experimental results implies that a significant advantage of interstitial over substitutional positions. N-O vibration modes appeared in interstitial doped TiO2, and each vibration was dependent on a different cluster structure.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity and Relationship of the Two Sanga Type Cattle of Botswana Based on Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Bakae Tirelo , Monau Phetogo Ineeleng , Nsoso James , Kgwatalala Patrick Monametsi
Published: November 2021

The study was performed to evaluate genetic variation on two Sanga type cattle found in Botswana; Tswana and Tuli using twelve microsatellite markers. All amplified loci were polymorphic with 75 and 77 alleles genotyped in the Tswana and Tuli populations, respectively. The total number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 (BM1818) to 10 (TGLA227) with total mean of 6.25 for Tswana and 6.43 for Tuli population. Almost all the markers showed high polymorphic information content (PIC) apart from BM1818 (0.375) and INTRA23 (0.393) which were moderately informative in Tswana population. Most of the markers were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium except for CSSRM60 and CSSM66 loci in Tswana population and ETH10, ETH225 and CSSM66 loci in Tuli population. A total of 103 unique alleles were genotyped across the two breeds with 49-shared, and 26 and 28 were unique to Tswana and Tuli populations, respectively. The expected heterozygosity (He) values were higher than the observed heterozygosity (Ho) in both populations; Tswana (He=0.7895±0.033 vs Ho=0.631±0.091) and Tuli (He=0.8123±0.033 vs Ho=0.556±0.021). The inbreeding coefficient was 0.200±0.002 and 0.332±0.001 in Tswana and Tuli populations, respectively. Analysis of molecular variance revealed 6.8% of the total genetic variation corresponding to differences between the two breeds and 93.2% within populations. The genetic identity between the two breeds was 56% and there were similar levels of multilocus heterozygosity and allelic diversity in the two breeds. The use of Tswana and Tuli breeds in a crossbreeding program is likely to result in minimal heterosis and therefore not recommended.
Impact of the absence of dental support on cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Reia Verônica Caroline Brito , Robles-Mengoa Maria Gabriela , Orcina Bernardo da Fonseca , Quenta-Huayhua Milenka Gabriela , Carneiro Mailon Cury , Manzano Brena Rodrigues , Prestes Anderson , Rubira Cássia Maria Fischer , Santos Paulo Sérgio da Silva
Published: November 2021

Purpose

With the suspension of routine services due to the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a significant number of the population has been presenting acute oral alterations without proper treatment. Through telecontact, this study aimed to identify individuals in treatment and had been treated for cancer who had their clinical dental care interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods

Individuals with oncologic diseases were selected from a telephone list of a clinical research center specializing in the care of cancer patients. We included those who answered an online questionnaire about their general health status and oral problems when they were unable to access dental care during the pandemic. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher and Chi-square tests. The significance level was set at 5% (p<0.05).
Results

Of the 280 patients recruited, 104 answered the questionnaire. There were 75 (72.1%) were women, of which 22 (36.7%) were under antineoplastic treatment, and 30 (68.2%) had already been treated; 29 (27.9%) were men, of which 15 (25.0%) were under antineoplastic treatment and 14 (31.8%) had already been treated. Of the universal sample, 64 (61.5%) had no complaints regarding their general health, and 74 (71.1%) had no difficulties in their daily activities due to teeth/mouth problems. However, the rates of oral problems were not statistically significant (p=NS).
Conclusion

In dentistry, telephone support and digital tools are useful and necessary instruments for the follow-up of cancer patients during the pandemic.
REPORTING AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES: META-ANALYSIS OF KEY CONCEPTS
Authors: Serpeninova Y. , Yaroshyna A.
Published: November 2021

Financial intermediaries increase the efficiency of capital allocation by accumulating it between the parties to match the needs of all stakeholders. Due to market imperfections and information asymmetries, financial intermediaries have moved from traditional banking to intermediaries that are more complex: investment banks, pension funds, venture capital funds, mutual funds and hedge funds. The interrelation between intermediaries and economic indicators is a topic of discussion for many scholars around the world. The final opinion on this does not yet exist, because the hypotheses that are put forward are polar in nature. This study is based on the assumption that financial intermediaries have a positive impact on economic development. This study is aimed at bibliometric analysis by means of VOSviewer v.1.6.16 to identify key contextual areas of the research topic. The paper identifies numerous trends in the study of financial intermediation. The main national and foreign approaches to the studied concept are systematized. Key subject groups of the studied phenomenon are revealed. The most cited authors who worked in this direction are analyzed. Articles on key aspects of the study were clustered. The connection between the concepts of "financial intermediation" and "non-financial reporting" is revealed. Google Books Ngram Viewer and Google Trends analyzed the frequency of mentions of research concepts and the frequency of user queries. As a result, on the basis of 405 documents indexed by the Scopus database during 2012 - 2018, 6 clusters were identified, focusing on: the place of financial intermediaries in the financial system; role in ensuring financial stability; the prerequisites for the formation of this phenomenon; roles in the financial market; interactions between financial intermediaries and systemic risks; connection with shadow banking. The growing number of mentions of the research topic among Ukrainian and foreign scientists indicates an increased interest in the nature and role of this phenomenon.
Alien and Storytelling in the Anthropocene: Evolutionism, Creationism and Pseudoarchaeology in Science Fiction
Authors: Matić Uroš , Žakula Sonja
Published: November 2021

This paper analyses the change in the metanarrative of the Alien franchise initiated by the movie Alien (1979), directed by Ridley Scott, and continued with a series of three sequels. The franchise was revived in 2012 with the prequel Prometheus. The story of the first four movies is set at the end of the anthropocene, and it deals with the horror of alien life forms, offering an evolutionist approach to the development of the human species. However, the revival of the franchise with the movie Prometheus changed the metanarrative from evolutionism to a creationist and pseudo-archaeological metanarrative with Biblical motifs. This paper points to the dangers of popularizing creationist and pseudo-archaeological narratives in science fiction. Responsibility for life on Earth and in outer space, lacking evidence to the contrary, remains in the hands of humans collectively and not alien Others.
Hydroxycinnamic Acids and Their Related Synthetic Analogs: An Update
of Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Selka Ayyoub , Moutombi Fanta J. Ndongou , Jean-François Jacques , Touaibia Mohamed
Published: November 2021

:

The hydroxycinnamic acid scaffold is extremely versatile with various biological activities.
This review will highlight the progress of the biological activities of hydroxycinnamic acids and their
related synthetic analogs, including recently reported anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant
activities.
The Influence of the Use of Face Masks During the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Human Microbiome – A Mini-Review
Authors: Chudzicka-Strugała Izabela , Gołębiewska Iwona , Brudecki Grzegorz P. , Zwoździak Barbara
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to draw attention to the possible consequences of improper, unhygienic use of mouth and nose covers in the context of prophylaxis against the spread of COVID-19 from the point of view of a family physician and focus on the risk of respiratory infections and skin lesions in patients, in different age groups. The use of protective masks may reduce the likelihood of infection but will not eliminate the risk of infection. However, it should be remembered that any mask, no matter how effective the filtration is or how well it seals, will have little effect if not used in conjunction with other preventive measures, including isolation of infected people, immunization, proper respiratory culture, regular, frequent replacement of masks, and hand hygiene. Additionally, certain risks associated with this form of prophylaxis should be taken into account, which, unfortunately, may also aggravate or even constitute a source of serious respiratory infections and lead to the development and aggravation of skin problems. Moreover, educating society not only on hand hygiene but also on the topic of the value of nose and mouth covers, as well as the frequency of their replacement and/or disinfection, is becoming a significant issue.
EDL933 Strains of Escherichia coli O157 can Demonstrate Genetic Diversity and Differential Adherence to Bovine Recto-Anal Junction Squamous Epithelial Cells
Authors: S. Hoefler Raegan , Kudva Indira T.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Differences betweenEscherichia coliO157 (O157) strains are well-established with some of these strains being associated with major outbreaks in the US. EDL933 is one such O157 strain that caused a multistate outbreak in 1982 and has since been used as a prototype in various O157-related experiments.

Objective:

As O157 can readily acquire genetic mutations, we sought to determine if the genetic and phenotypic profiles of EDL933 strains from different sources would be consistent.

Methods:

We evaluated wild-type O157 strains stocked as EDL933 from three different laboratories, in the strain typing Polymorphic Amplified Typing Sequence (PATS) and the bovine rectal-anal junction squamous epithelial (RSE) cell- and HEp-2 cell- adherence assays. In addition, we also verified if Shiga toxins (Stx), the Locus of Enterocyte Effacement (LEE) or curli fimbriae contributed to the adherence phenotypes observed using mutant and wild-type EDL933 isolates.

Results:

Our results showed differences in PATS profiles and RSE cell-adherence phenotype, with no influence from the Stx or LEE genes, between EDL933 from different sources. Interestingly, the EDL933 strain that demonstrated the most contrasting diffuse adherence phenotype on RSE cells, EDL933-T, had decreased curli production that may have contributed to this phenotype.

Conclusion:

Our observations suggest that a comprehensive characterization of bacterial isolates, even if assigned to the same strain type prior to use in experiments, is warranted to ensure consistency and reproducibility of results.
The Impact of Quarantine on Emotions during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chomentauskas Gintaras , Dereškevičiūtė Edita , Kalanavičiūtė Gustė , Ališauskienė Rasa , Paulauskaitė Kristina
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

The present study explores how the general population of Lithuania felt during the national quarantine of COVID-19 in the period from March 30th to June 8th, 2020. Representative subjects were interviewed five times using adapted single-item questions to evaluate their emotions, stress, and perceived pain levels.

Methods:

It was hypothesized that gender and age-related differences would be found in emotional responses to the quarantine.

Results and Discussion:

During the five polls taken, more women were found to report feeling stressed, anxious, sad, and in more physical pain than men. Evaluations of anger, enjoyment, and calmness provided no statistically significant gender differences. Emotions were found to differ significantly between three age groups (18-29, 30-49, 50-74).

Conclusion:

Contrary to expectations, the biggest negative impact of quarantine was found in the youngest group aged 18-29 years: it showed the highest prevalence of stress, anxiety, and sadness of all age groups. Possible explanations for different gender and age-related emotional reactions are discussed.
Factors Hampering the Participation of Nursing Staff in the Continuing Education Activities of Hospitals Centers in the Casablanca-Settat Region
Authors: Lhbibani Amina , Lamiri Abderrahmane , Lotfi Said , Tridane Malika , Belaaouad Said
Published: November 2021

Aim:

This study aimed to identify the factors hampering the participation of nurses in the activities of CE sessions at the level of hospitals in the region of Casablanca.

Background:

Continuing education (CE) for nursing staff represents a strategic asset for hospitals, identifying the constraints of nursing staff participation in continuing training could help improve the quality of care for patients and the population in general.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify the factors hampering the participation of nurses in the activities of CE sessions at the level of hospitals in the region of Casablanca.

Methods:

The study used a two-phase mixed method design. First of all, a questionnaire was administered to 930 nurses belonging to 9 hospital centers in the Casablanca-Settat region in order to explore and estimate the frequencies of the factors hindering the participation of nurses in the activities of the FC sessions at the level of hospitals, and a semi-structured interview with 9 persons in charge of continuing education from these different hospitals to complete and explain the data collected by the questionnaire.

Results:

The data analysis confirmed that the work overload is the first individual difficulty hindering the participation of nurses in CE sessions,i.e., 85.4%. The most mentioned organizational difficulties are schedule recommended in the FC not encouraging and not suitable,i.e., 23%, non-targeted content (does not meet the needs of the nursing staff),i.e., 66.7%. Finally, the absence of support measures in terms of monitoring and evaluation to maintain the knowledge and skills acquired during FC sessions in real situations at the workstation occupied is the first institutional difficulty mentioned by the interviewed (88%).

Conclusion:

Those responsible for training should take into account the factors nurse’s face in participating in continuing education sessions when designing, developing, and implementing continuing education sessions.
Algorithm to construct integro splines
Authors: Mijiddorj Renchin-Ochir , Zhanlav Tugal
Published: November 2021

We study some properties of integro splines. Using these properties, we design an algorithm to construct splines \(S_{m+1}(x)\) of neighbouring degrees to the given spline \(S_{m}(x)\) with degree \(m\). A local integro-sextic spline is constructed with the proposed algorithm. The local integro splines work efficiently, that is, they have low computational complexity, and they are effective for use in real time. The construction of nonlocal integro splines usually leads to solving a system of linear equations with band matrices, which yields high computational costs.
 
doi:10.1017/S1446181121000316
A scientific note of pest-insects associated with stingless bee hive Melipona eburnea in the Ecuadorian Amazon Region
Authors: Valdivieso-Rivera Fernando , Pazmiño-Viteri Michelle , Pinos-Tamayo Alejandro , Estupiñan Marlon , Liria Jonathan , Rodriguez-Haro Cecilia
Published: November 2021

Bees are the primary pollinators in nature. However, climate change, excessive use of fertilizers and invasive species have caused the decline of bee colonies. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the presence of pests in colonies of Melipona eburnea. For this, the colonies of M. eburnea were examined during the honey extraction process. We found 4 different pests associated with the physical conditions of colonies and the fragile defense of the bees against the invaders. In conclusion, this report of the presence of pests is to alert researchers and meliponicultures to prevent the decline of stingless bees.
Molecular Photoacoustic Imaging
Authors: Cepeda Eduardo , Narváez Katherine
Published: November 2021

Medicine has gone through several challenges to make it much more accurate and thus prolong the human being's life. A large part of this challenge is diseased, so early detection can help carry out treatment on time. There is a technology that allows detecting an abnormality within the body without using an invasive method. Ultrasound is a diagnostic test used to scan organs and tissues through sound waves. Although this technique has been widely used, the results are not desired because the images generated are not high resolution.

On the other hand, X-rays are used because it presents an image with a much higher resolution than other techniques based on light waves or ultrasound; despite this, they are harmful to cells. In consequence of this problem, another method called molecular photoacoustic imaging has been implemented. This technique bridges the traditional depth limits of ballistic optical imaging and diffuse optical imaging's resolution limits, using the acoustic waves generated in response to laser light absorption, which has now shown potential for molecular imaging, allowing the visualization of biological processes in a non-invasive way. The purpose of this article is to give a critically scoped review of the physical, chemical, and biochemical characteristics of existing photoacoustic contrast agents, highlighting the pivotal applications and current challenges for molecular photoacoustic imaging.
Machine Learning–Based Hospital Discharge Prediction for Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ahn Imjin , Gwon Hansle , Kang Heejun , Kim Yunha , Seo Hyeram , Choi Heejung , Cho Ha Na , Kim Minkyoung , Jun Tae Joon , Kim Young-Hak
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Effective resource management in hospitals can improve the quality of medical services by reducing labor-intensive burdens on staff, decreasing inpatient waiting time, and securing the optimal treatment time. The use of hospital processes requires effective bed management; a stay in the hospital that is longer than the optimal treatment time hinders bed management. Therefore, predicting a patient’s hospitalization period may support the making of judicious decisions regarding bed management.

OBJECTIVE

First, this study aims to develop a machine learning (ML)–based predictive model for predicting the discharge probability of inpatients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Second, we aim to assess the outcome of the predictive model and explain the primary risk factors of inpatients for patient-specific care. Finally, we aim to evaluate whether our ML-based predictive model helps manage bed scheduling efficiently and detects long-term inpatients in advance to improve the use of hospital processes and enhance the quality of medical services.

METHODS

We set up the cohort criteria and extracted the data from CardioNet, a manually curated database that specializes in CVDs. We processed the data to create a suitable data set by reindexing the date-index, integrating the present features with past features from the previous 3 years, and imputing missing values. Subsequently, we trained the ML-based predictive models and evaluated them to find an elaborate model. Finally, we predicted the discharge probability within 3 days and explained the outcomes of the model by identifying, quantifying, and visualizing its features.

RESULTS

We experimented with 5 ML-based models using 5 cross-validations. Extreme gradient boosting, which was selected as the final model, accomplished an average area under the receiver operating characteristic curve score that was 0.865 higher than that of the other models (ie, logistic regression, random forest, support vector machine, and multilayer perceptron). Furthermore, we performed feature reduction, represented the feature importance, and assessed prediction outcomes. One of the outcomes, the individual explainer, provides a discharge score during hospitalization and a daily feature influence score to the medical team and patients. Finally, we visualized simulated bed management to use the outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we propose an individual explainer based on an ML-based predictive model, which provides the discharge probability and relative contributions of individual features. Our model can assist medical teams and patients in identifying individual and common risk factors in CVDs and can support hospital administrators in improving the management of hospital beds and other resources.

CLINICALTRIAL
ANTIHYPERTENSIVE PHARMACOTHERAPY IN HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS AT A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL COLLEGE IN INDIA
Authors: SINGH RANJODH JEET
Published: November 2021

Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of Atenolol and Olmesartan in Stage-1 hypertension (HTN), and the adverse effect profile of Atenolol and Olmesartan in Stage-1 HTN.
Methods: A prospective, randomized, open, and parallel study was carried out in 100 patients attending the outpatient department of General Medicine Department MMIMSR, Mullana, Ambala, India with Stage -1 HTN according to joint national committee VII. The patients were randomly divided into two groups to receive Tab. Atenolol 50 mg od (Group A, n=50) and Tab. Olmesartan medoxomil 20 mg (Group B, n=50) od for a total period of 12 weeks with regular follow up every 2 weeks from the baseline. At each visit, blood pressure (BP), heart rate, and adverse effects were evaluated. Laboratory investigations were carried out at baseline and end of the study period. p<0.005 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Atenolol and Olmesartan medoxomil both significantly reduce BP and heart rate (p<0.005). Olmesartan medoxomil is more efficacious in reducing BP.
Conclusion: Olmesartan medoxomil is a better choice for Stage -1 HTN between the two drugs as it leads to a greater decrement in BP.
A REVIEW OF THE COMBINATION OF XANTHINE AND BRONCHODILATOR DRUG IN MOUTH‑DISSOLVING FILM FOR ASTHMA TREATMENT”
Authors: LODHI DEVENDRA SINGH , SINGH PANWAR AAKASH , GOLANI PRADEEP , VERMA MEGHA
Published: November 2021

There has been an increase in demand for caregiver dosage forms over the past two decades. In the oral cavity, mouth dissolving film dissolves swiftly. Oral films that dissolve in your mouth function best when combined with medications that act quickly, such as Xanthine category drugs (Salbutamol Sulphate) and Xanthene Derivative Theophylline. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), asthma affects one in six adults and a quarter of all children, according to the WHO. A child’s admission to the hospital is often due to asthma, which is one of the most prevalent reasons for admission. During an asthma attack, quick-relief or rescue drugs are used to relax and open the airways, as well as ease symptoms. If prescribed, these medications can also be administered prior to exercise. To treat asthma, a combination of Salbutamol Sulfate and Theophylline is available in tablet form under the brand name “Theo-Asthalin.” Oral films seem to be the most efficacious formulation. As a consequence, children with asthma should receive support from drugs given in the form of mouth-dissolving films, since they provide better patient compliance and an appropriate treatment method.
КОНСТРУКТИВНЫЕ И ТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ РЕШЕНИЯ СОЗДАНИЯ УНИВЕРСАЛЬНОЙ МОДУЛЬНОЙ ПЛАТФОРМЫ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ПРИВОДАМИ, РАЗЛИЧНЫМИ ТИПАМИ ЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКИХ ДВИГАТЕЛЕЙ, ПОДВИЖНЫМИ МЕХАНИЗМАМИ
Authors: Шаймарданова О.Р. , Воробьев В.М.
Published: November 2021

Рассмотрены конструктивно-технологические решения создания конфигурируемой адаптивной модульной платформы управления приводами, различными типами электрических двигателей, подвижными механизмами. Описаны новые конструктивно-технологические решения для систем управления электродвигателями, включающие сменные реконфигурируемые типы модулей и блоков как составных элементов системы. Приведено описание методов оптимизации архитектуры модульных систем, решений по кастомизации элементов платформы под задачи пользователя за счет конфигурирования элементов платформы под задачи пользователя.
МЕТОДЫ ПРОЕКТИРОВАНИЯ СИСТЕМ БЕСПРОВОДНОГО ПИТАНИЯ ЭЛЕКТРОННЫХ ИМПЛАНТАТОВ
Authors: Данилов А.А.
Published: November 2021

Рассмотрены основные методы проектирования систем беспроводного питания электронных имплантатов. Показано, что наиболее перспективным является подход, основанный на использовании сложных целевых функций и автоматизированного проектирования.
ДИАГНОСТИКА ИСПРАВНОСТИ ДИСТАНЦИОННЫХ ИЗМЕРИТЕЛЕЙ ПАРАМЕТРОВ ДВИЖЕНИЯ ОБЪЕКТОВ УСТРОЙСТВАМИ ВСТРОЕННОГО КОНТРОЛЯ
Authors: Медеев Д.А.
Published: November 2021

Рассматриваются способы построения и устройства систем самодиагностики исправности дистанционных измерителей параметров движения.
РАЗРАБОТКА МАЛОГАБАРИТНОГО ДВУХПОЛЯРИЗАЦИОННОГО ДОПЛЕРОВСКОГО МЕТЕОРОЛОГИЧЕСКОГО РАДИОЛОКАТОРА БЛИЖНЕЙ ЗОНЫ
Authors: Цыпленков Ю.С. , Анурин А.А.
Published: November 2021

В целях повышения эффективности метеорологических наблюдений за счет своевременного оповещения и сверхкраткосрочного прогнозирования опасных явлений погоды, снижая риск аварийных ситуаций при взлете, посадке и движении воздушных судов в условиях мощной кучево-дождевой и грозоградовой облачностей, горизонтальном и вертикальном сдвигах ветра, предлагаем разработку малогабаритного двухполяризационного доплеровского метеорадиолокатора с дальнейшим построением единой радиолокационной сети на территории Российской Федерации.
ОЦЕНКА БЮДЖЕТА НИСХОДЯЩЕГО КАНАЛА СПУТНИКОВОЙ СИСТЕМЫ СВЯЗИ ДЛЯ ТЕХНОЛОГИИ NB-IOT
Authors: Михайлов В.Ю. , Котляров Е.Ю. , Нуйкин А.В.
Published: November 2021

В работе рассматривается возможность создания канала связи между космическим аппаратом и абонентским терминалом узкополосного Интернета вещей (NB-IoT) в рамках нововведений, представленных в 3GPP Release 17. Приведена оценка бюджета нисходящего канала связи для различных диапазонов частот.
ОТКРЫТАЯ ПЛАТФОРМА УСКОРЕНИЯ ВЕРИФИКАЦИИ ЦИФРОВОЙ АППАРАТУРЫ И СИСТЕМ НА КРИСТАЛЛЕ
Authors: Переверзев А.Л. , Силантьев А.М. , Солодовников А.П.
Published: November 2021

Предложена открытая архитектура платформы ускорения верификации цифровой аппаратуры и систем на кристалле на основе доступных для индивидуальных разработчиков средств. Ускорение достигается путем переноса вычислений результата воздействий на тестируемое устройство из симулятора в реальную либо эмулируемую в ПЛИС аппаратуру посредством программного интерфейса. Разработан прототип платформы, продемонстрировавший реальное увеличение скорости выполнения тестов по сравнению с симуляцией.
ПРОБЛЕМЫ РАЗРАБОТКИ УНИВЕРСАЛЬНОЙ МОДУЛЬНОЙ ПЛАТФОРМЫ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ЭЛЕКТРОПРИВОДАМИ
Authors: Воробъёв М.М. , Лялин К.С. , Меньшов А.А. , Суворов Д.А. , Филимонов Р.Э. , Якунин А.Н.
Published: November 2021

Рассматриваются этапы разработки цифровой модульной системы управления приводами и электродвигателями различного типа, сложности и проблемы, с которыми пришлось столкнуться на этапе разработки, а также пути и методы их решения.
РАЗРАБОТКА ТЕХНОЛОГИИ И КОНФИГУРАЦИИ РАДИАЦИОННО СТОЙКОЙ ЯЧЕЙКИ ЭНЕРГОНЕЗАВИСИМОЙ ПАМЯТИ SONOS НА БАЗЕ ТЕХНОЛОГИИ КМОП 180 НМ
Authors: Червонный Д.В. , Арилин Р.А. , Болычев Д.И.
Published: November 2021

Представлены результаты разработки энергонезависимой памяти SONOS на базе технологии КМОП 180 нм. Технологический маршрут реализован за счет встраивания блоков операций формирования ONO-структуры в базовую технологию КМОП 180 нм. Представлены результаты исследования изготовленных образцов с ячейками памяти.
imperio contraataca
Authors: Alvarado Luna Patricio A.
Published: November 2021

Este trabajo busca explicar las incursiones militares del ejército realista en Lima entre 1821 y 1824 con el objetivo de contribuir a la reflexión sobre la importancia de esta ciudad para los realistas tras su partida a los Andes del sur en 1821. Sobre la base de fuentes de archivo y periódicos se analizan los debates en torno a la importancia de Lima para el control político del Perú. Se explican las circunstancias y los efectos sociales, económicos y políticos de cada una de esas incursiones militares. Y, finalmente, se examinan las dificultades del gobierno independiente para mantener segura la ciudad en relación con las estrategias de Simón Bolívar desde su llegada al Perú en 1823 hasta la rendición de los españoles en los castillos del Callao en 1826.
Software Engineering in Healthcare
Authors: Gupta Archit
Published: November 2021

Abstract: As technology is advancing and affecting every phase of human life, health care facilities are also getting improved with the introduction of new advanced, customized, and patient-centric approaches in software engineering. Engineers all around the world are working to create unique and efficient ways for the prevention and early detection of diseases along with improving the patients’ experience while using these technologies. With the gain in computing power and access to a wide range of software, software engineers are working on technologies such as Big Data, AI, Data Science, and Cybersecurity to improve the existing methodologies and pave the way for patient-centric approaches and knowledge translation.
Usuários de álcool e outras drogas na Rede de Atenção Psicossocial: Cuidado de Enfermagem
Authors: De Brito Priscilla Mecia Conceição , Alves Manuela Bastos , Oliveira Verônica Mascarenhas , Nóbrega Maria do Perpetuo Socorro de Sousa , Baptista Simone Conceição Oliveira , Da Silva Rudval Souza
Published: November 2021

Objetivo: Analisar a produção do cuidado da equipe de enfermagem aos usuários de álcool e outras drogas na Rede de Atenção Psicossocial. Método: Estudo exploratório e descritivo de abordagem qualitativa, desenvolvido com 11 profissionais da equipe de enfermagem atuantes em três serviços de saúde da Rede, localizados num município do interior da Bahia, Brasil. Os dados foram coletados entre dezembro de 2017 e fevereiro de 2018 utilizando-se da entrevista semiestruturada. Resultados: Os resultados apontam para um acesso dos usuários a Rede a partir de encaminhamentos e referências; as atividades de acolhimento têm sido desenvolvidas apenas pelos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial e o vínculo tem se demonstrado como frágil. Conclusão: Conclui-se que o cuidado de enfermagem na Rede tem se desenvolvido de modo fragmentado e pontual, logo, dispositivos como acesso, acolhimento e vínculo devem ser trabalhados com toda equipe de saúde em prol de uma assistência integral.
A Real-world Experience of Atrioventricular Synchronous Pacing with Leadless Ventricular Pacemakers
Authors: Kowlgi Gurukripa , Tseng Andrew , Tempel Nathan , Henrich Mark , Venkatachalam Kalpathi , Scott Luis , Shen Win-Kuang , Deshmukh Abhishek , Madhavan Malini , Lee Hon-Chi , Asirvatham Samuel , Friedman Paul , Cha Yong-Mei , Mulpuru Siva
Published: November 2021

Aims: The MicraTM transcatheter pacing system (TPS) (Medtronic) is the
only leadless pacemaker that promotes atrioventricular (AV) synchrony
via accelerometer-based atrial sensing. Data regarding the real-world
experience with this novel system are currently lacking. We sought to
characterize patients undergoing MicraTM -AV implants, describe
percentage AV synchrony achieved, and analyze the causes for suboptimal
AV synchrony. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, electronic
medical records from 56 consecutive patients undergoing MicraTM -AV
implants at the Mayo Clinic sites in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona
with a minimum follow-up of 3 months were reviewed. Demographic data,
comorbidities, echocardiographic data, and clinical outcomes were
compared among patients with and without atrial synchronous-ventricular
pacing (AsVP) ≥70%. Results: Fifty-six percent of patients achieved
AsVP ≥70%. Patients with adequate AsVP had smaller body mass indices, a
lower proportion of congestive heart failure and pulmonary hypertension.
Echocardiographic parameters and procedural characteristics were similar
across the two groups. Active device troubleshooting was associated with
higher AsVP. The likely reasons for low AsVP were persistent atrial
arrhythmias, small A4-wave amplitude, and inadequate device
reprogramming. Importantly, in patients with low AsVP, subjective
clinical worsening was not noted during follow-up. Conclusion: With the
increasing popularity of leadless PM, it is paramount for device
implanting teams to be familiar with common predictors of AV synchrony
and troubleshooting with MicraTM -AV devices.
General decay and blow up of solutions for a variable-exponent viscoelastic double-Kirchhoff type wave equation with nonlocal degenerate damping
Authors: Shahrouzi Mohammad , Ferreira Jorge , Pişkin Erhan
Published: November 2021

In this paper we consider a viscoelastic double-Kirchhoff type wave
equation of the form $$
u_{tt}-M_{1}(\|\nabla
u\|^{2})\Delta
u-M_{2}(\|\nabla
u\|_{p(x)})\Delta_{p(x)}u+(g\ast\Delta
u)(x,t)+\sigma(\|\nabla
u\|^{2})h(u_{t})=\phi(u),
$$ where the functions $M_{1},M_{2}$ and
$\sigma, \phi$ are real valued functions
and $(g\ast\nabla u)(x,t)$ is the
viscoelastic term which are introduced later. Under appropriate
conditions for the data and exponents, the general decay result and
blow-up of solutions are proved with positive initial energy. This study
extends and improves the previous results in the literature to
viscoelastic double-Kirchhoff type equation with degenerate nonlocal
damping and variable-exponent nonlinearities.
Global well-posedness for the three-dimensional incompressible viscous non-resistive MHD equations in an infinite slab
Authors: Zhao Youyi
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we investigate the global well-posedness of the system of
incompressible viscous non-resistive MHD fluids in a three-dimensional
horizontally infinite slab with finite height. We reformulate our
analysis to Lagrangian coordinates, and then develop a new mathematical
approach to establish global well-posedness of the MHD system, which
requires no nonlinear compatibility conditions on the initial data.
Can left ventricular function recover following Bentall procedure in a patient with concomitant noncompacted left ventricular myocardium?
Authors: Boldyrev Sergey , Finsterer J , Stöllberger Claudia , Suslova Valentina , Pekhterev Valery , Barbuhatti Kirill , Sef Davorin
Published: November 2021

We report a rare case of successful left ventricular restoration of left
ventricular hypertrabeculation/noncompaction (LVHT) after Bentall
procedure in a patient with severe aortic regurgitation (AR) and aortic
root aneurysm. At 1-year follow-up, he remained well with
echocardiography showing the improved contractility of the noncompacted
left ventricle. This case report emphasize that timely surgical
correction of severe AR may also lead to improvement of systolic
dysfunction along with concomitant LVHT.
Nesting strategy and the niche partitioning in two socially monogamous songbirds
Authors: Ota Nao
Published: November 2021

Niche partitioning is often vital for the coexistence of ecologically
similar species under limited resources. Here I will report the nesting
strategy of the two sympatric songbirds and the species differences,
which have been overlooked in the past. Blue-capped and red-cheeked
cordon-bleus are socially monogamous, biparental songbirds (family
Estrildidae) that sympatrically inhabit East Africa. My field
observation during their breeding season revealed that red-cheeked
cordon-bleus build their nests near wasp nests more frequently than
blue-capped cordon-bleus. Blue-capped cordon-bleus instead tended to
take over weaver’s old nest more often or use a broader range of nesting
materials compared to red-cheeked cordon-bleus. These nesting strategies
are already described in the literature as common behaviors in both
species. However, the species differences of the adopting strategies
have never been reported. While Estrildid finches are one of the best
well-studied bird families of their behavior under the captive
condition, my finding suggests that we still have limited knowledge of
their wild behaviors and ecological plausibility, which is required to
understand the functions and evolution.