bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors that Influence the Duration of Symptom Resolution in COVID-19 Patients in Ethiopia: A Follow up Study Involving 60 Symptomatic Cases.
Authors: Abrahim Saro , Tesema Masresha , Ejeta Eshetu , Ahmed Mahammed , Defar Atkure , Hussen Alemayehu , Demoz Getachew , Degu Eskinder , Aseratie Mulugeta , Merga Belay , Dillnessa Enatenesh , Whiting Susan , Regassa Tegene , Duguma Derege
Published: January 2021

Background: The newly identified virus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus-two (SARS-CoV-2) has claimed more than a million lives worldwide since it was first recognized in Wuhan, China in December 2019. Understanding the clinical features of COVID-19 and duration for resolution of symptoms is crucial for isolation of patients and tailoring public health messaging, interventions, and policy. Therefore, this study aims to assess the median duration of COVID-19 signs and symptoms resolution and explore it’s predictors among symptomatic COVID-19 patients in EthiopiaMethods: A hospital-based prospective cohort study involving 60 COVID-19 cases was conducted at Eka Kotebe General Hospital, COVID-19 Isolation and Treatment Center. The study participants were all symptomatic COVID-19 adult patients admitted to the hospital from March 18 to June 27, 2020. Physicians at the center recorded the data using a log sheet. Cox proportional-hazards regression model was conducted. Statistical significance was defined at P<0.05. All analyses were done using STATA version 16.1 software.Results: A total of 60 symptomatic COVID-19 patients with a mean age of 34.8 years (+1.8) were involved in the study. The median duration of symptom resolution of COVID-19 was seven days with a minimum of two and a maximum of 68 days. Sex and Body Mass Index (BMI) were statistically significant predictors of the symptom resolution. The hazard of having delayed sign or symptom resolution in males was 55% higher than in females (P=0.039, CI: 0.22 to 0.96) and the hazard of the delayed sign or symptom in those with BMI ≥25 was 48% higher than in those with BMI <25 (P=0.051; CI: 0.272 to 1.003). In this study, age and comorbidity had no association with the duration of sign or symptom resolution in COVID-19 patients.Conclusions: The median duration of COVID-19 symptom resolution was seven days. Being male or having a BMI ≥ 25 were predictors for having a delayed sign or symptom resolution time. Therefore, understanding the duration of COVID-19 sign or symptom resolution helps to guide the patient isolation period and prioritize COVID-19 patients to be shielded.
Application of ATEM on the Xiongan New Area Underground Space Investigation
Authors: Liang Shengjun , Li Zhaoliang , Wang Ming , Yu Xuezhong , Li Jiaojiao , Sun Siyuan
Published: January 2021

The application of Airborne Time-domain Electromagnetic is developing in recent year, but investigation of underground space is rarely to see in China. An ATEM was conducted in Xiongan New area in the central part of China, which was known as one of the most complex shallow structure underground. The plan of field work, data processing method and inversion method was introduced in the paper. Two years field data and inversion results were compared to confirm the data quality. Ground resistivity method was discussed and compared in the paper. Geophysical data was collected to clarifying different kind of soil, which were used for inversion and layer distinguish. Through the research work in the area, water contained layer was mapped in the model, which can be the supplement of ground investigating work. The experience of work in the area would be useful for the underground structure investigation in the future.
Physical Fighting Among Adolescents in Eastern Ethiopia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Semahegn Agumasie , Dessie Yadeta , Assefa Nega , Canavan Chelsey , Berhane Yemane , Fawzi Wafaie
Published: January 2021

Objective: To assess the magnitude and factors associated with physical attack and fighting among adolescents in Eastern Ethiopia.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,424 adolescents in eastern Ethiopia in 2016. Random sampling was used to recruit study participants. Data were collected by trained interviewers using an adapted, structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, binary and multivariable logistic regression were performed. Statistical associations were determined using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) at 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CIs) and P-value<0.05. Results: Prevalence of physical attack and physical fights was 5.8%, and 26.4%, respectively. Adolescents who attended school (AOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.9) and who chewed Khat (AOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.8) were less likely to experience physical attack. Male adolescents were two times more likely to engage in physical fights than female adolescents (AOR 2.4; 95% CI 1.8-3.2). In-school adolescents who attended secondary (AOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.7) or tertiary level of education (AOR 0.2, 95% CI 0.1-0.7) were less likely to participate in physical-fighting than those with primary level education. Adolescents who had ever engaged in physical work to earn money for food or drink were 1.9 times more likely to be physically attacked compared to those who had not (AOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.0-3.5).Conclusion: Physical attacks and fights were found to be common experiences of adolescents in eastern Ethiopia. Future research and programs should emphasize preventive health programs for reducing violence and promoting school enrolment and retention.
Genetic Polymorphisms Impact Response to Clopidogrel in Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ueda Yu , Li Ronald , Nguyen Nghi , Ontiveros Eric , Fousse Samantha , Oldach Maureen , Vernau Karen , Court Michael , Stern Joshua
Published: January 2021

Clopidogrel is converted to its active metabolite by cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and irreversibly inhibits platelet activation by antagonizing the adenosine-diphosphate (ADP) receptor. It is frequently used in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) to prevent thromboembolic complications. However, significant interpatient variability of the response to clopidogrel therapy has been suspected. In this study, we assessed the impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within ADP receptor (P2RY1, P2RY12) and cytochrome P450 isoenzyme (CYP2C41) genes on platelet inhibition by clopidogrel administration in cats with HCM. Forty-nine cats completed the study, and blood samples were obtained before and after clopidogrel therapy to assess the degree of platelet inhibition based on flow cytometry and whole blood platelet aggregometry. Plasma concentrations of clopidogrel metabolites were measured after the last dose of clopidogrel. Whole blood platelet aggregometry revealed a significant reduction of platelet inhibition by clopidogrel in cats with the P2RY1:A236G and the P2RY12:V34I variants. The association with the P2RY1:A236G variant and clopidogrel resistance remained significant after adjustment for multiple comparisons. This study demonstrated that a genetic polymorphism in the P2RY1 gene altered response to clopidogrel therapy and suggests that clinicians may consider alternative or additional thromboprophylactic therapy in cats with the P2RY:A236G variant.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Undernutrition on Cancer Patients at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Worku Eyerusalem , Aragaw Hayat , Kebede Damitie
Published: January 2021

Background

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world and it is considered that every fourth person dies of it. Under-nutrition is most commonly seen in cancer patients with some types of solid tumors, various chronic diseases, as well as in older persons and young children. This can result in longer hospital stay, reduced response to therapies, increased complications to therapy and surgery proceedings, poor survival and higher care costs. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with under-nutrition on cancer patients attending Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia.
Methods

Cross-sectional study was conducted from September to October 2018 among 347 cancer patients in Tikur Anbessa Specialized hospital Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. All cancer patients 18–65 years of age who were on the 2nd cycle and above treatment phase were included. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires and the Patient Generated-Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) score. Data was entered into Epi-Info version 7 and exported and analyzed by SPSS version 20. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify the associated factors. Variables with 𝑃 value of less than 0.05 were considered as significant predictors.
Results

The prevalence of under-nutrition according to PG-SGA score result 202 (63.1%) and 88(27.5%) of the participants were moderately and severely undernourished, respectively. BMI of the participants also showed that 206 (64.4%) and 89 (27.8%) were normal and underweight, respectively. Two hundred seventy-six (86.3%) of the patients needed critical nutrition intervention. Performance status of ≥ 2 [AOR = 7.9, 95% CI (3.05, 20.48)] and cancer stage II, III & IV [AOR = 3.47, 95% CI (1.25, 9.58)], [AOR = 3.81, 95% CI (1.17, 12.31)] and [AOR = 6.11, 95% CI (1.48, 25.14)] were significantly associated with malnutrition on cancer patients at a P-value < 0.05.
Conclusion

The prevalence of under-nutrition is prevalent in the study area. Performance status of ≥ 2 and cancer stages were important factors associated with malnutrition in cancer patients. Screening and evaluation of nutritional status of the patients and planning nutritional therapy such as dietary supplements or enteral nutrition to counteract malnutrition on cancer patients should be implemented.
Modeling of adsorption of aluminum on macrocyclic porphyrins H2TPP and H2TTPP: Phenomenological investigation of aluminum (Ⅲ)-porphyrin complex at the molecular level
Authors: Elqahtani Zaineb , Yahia Mohamed Ben , Alfryyan Nada , Aldaghfaq Shatha , Aouaini Fatma
Published: January 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Post-operative neurological improvement is associated with significant neck pain attenuation after surgery for cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament: a prospective multicenter registry study
Authors: Koda Masao , Yoshii Toshitaka , Egawa Satoru , Sakai Kenichiro , Kusano Kazuo , Nakagawa Yukihiro , Hirai Takashi , Wada Kanichiro , Katsumi Keiichi , Kimura Atsushi , Furuya Takeo , Maki Satoshi , Nagoshi Narihito , Watanabe Kota , Kanchiku Tsukasa , Nagamoto Yukitaka , Oshima Yasushi , Ando Kei , Takahata Masahiko , Mori Kanji , Nakajima Hideaki , Murata Kazuma , Matsunaga Shunji , Kaito Takashi , Yamada Kei , Kobayashi Sho , Kato Satoshi , Oba Tetsuro , Inami Satoshi , Fujibayashi Shunsuke , Katoh Hiroyuki , Kanno Haruo , Takahashi Hiroshi , Miyagi Masayuki , Inoue Gen , Takaso Masashi , Imagama Shiro , Kawaguchi Yoshiharu , Takeshita Katsuhi , Nakamura Masaya , Matsumoto Morio , Okawa Atsushi , Yamazaki Masashi , Nakashima Hiroaki
Published: January 2021

Although favourable surgical outcomes for myelopathy caused by cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) have been reported, factors significantly associated with post-operative neck pain attenuation still remain unclear. The primary aim of the present study was to determine factors significantly associated with post-operative neck pain attenuation in patients with cervical OPLL using a prospective multi-centre registry of surgically treated cervical OPLL. Significant postoperative neck pain reduction (50% reduction of neck pain) was achieved in 84 patients (30.9%). There was no significant difference in neck pain attenuation between surgical procedures. Statistical analyses revealed neurological recovery as a factor having a significant positive association with post-operative neck pain attenuation (p = 0.04). Neurological recovery was an independent factor having a significant positive association with post-operative neck pain attenuation in patients with cervical myelopathy caused by OPLL who underwent cervical spine surgery.
WITHDRAWN: Long term Temperature and Precipitation Trends Assessment in the state of Qatar and its Implication to Energy Water and Food Nexus
Authors: Tareq Al-Ansari , Rajesh Govindan , Bilal Hazrat
Published: January 2021

Climate change is one of the most severe global challenges of the present generation. Variations in temperature and precipitation can seriously affect water energy, water and food (EWF) security. Assessment of the ground-based observation of the climatic parameters such as temperature and precipitation are vital for the overall decision-making process concerning energy, water and food security. In this study, temperature and precipitation data is investigated using the Mann Kendall, Pettitt and Watson tests and inter-annual variability assessment. Long-term temperature data indicates that the annual and seasonal temperature has increased significantly between 1987 and 2016. The mean temperature has increased by 1.02 ℃ over the period of observation. In contrast, the study determines that precipitation during the period of observation decreased by -12.6 mm. However, this decreasing trend is not statistically significant (p < 0.05). Furthermore, total monthly precipitation is observed to be decreasing during the winter (December-January-February-DJF) while increasing in spring (March-April-May-MAM), summer (June-July-August-JJA) and autumn (September-October-November-SON). Despite the observed increases in the seasonal temperature during JJA, MAM and SON, the decreasing trend in winter precipitation is of more concern as most of the rainfall is received during DJF. These results have serious implications for EWF resources and the ‘nexus’ between them. Such integrated resource management approaches not only lower the risks of a one-dimensional decision-making process, it can also identify interdependencies, synergies, and trade-offs amongst the EWF sectors. As an outcome of the calculated trends, this study recommends measures to improve the overall resilience of EWF sectors and to adapt and mitigate the negative consequences of the changing climate faced by these sectors.
Influence of Brain Atrophy using Semi-quantitative Analysis in [123I ]FP-CIT Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography: A Monte Carlo Simulation Study
Authors: Nosaka Hiroki , Onoguchi Masahisa , Suda Masaya , Tsushima Hiroyuki , Kurata Satoshi , Onoma Ayano , Murakawa Ryosuke
Published: January 2021

Background The specific binding ratio (SBR), an objective indicator of N-ω-fluoropropyl-2β-carbomethoxy-3β-(4-[123I] iodophenyl) nortropane ([123I]FP-CIT) single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) could be used for the diagnosis of Parkinson' disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. One of the problems of SBR analysis is the setting position of the volume of interest (VOI) might contain cerebral ventricles and cerebral groove. These areas become prominent in analysis with brain atrophy, however these studies have not been done sufficiently. Results We examined the influence of brain atrophy in SBR analysis using Monte Carlo simulation. The brain atrophy model (BAM) which set the simulate of brain atrophy to 5 stages was prepared using morphological operation. Projection data was created based on BAM, and SPECT reconstruction was carried out. The counts of striatal VOI decreased as brain atrophy progresses. Similarly, the counts of the reference VOI also decreased as brain atrophy progressed. In the striatal VOI counts and the reference VOI counts, the reference VOI counts was more affected by brain atrophy than striatal VOI counts. The SBR calculated from these values was overestimated as brain atrophy progresses. Conclusions It was suggested that the SBR could be overestimated in the secular change of the case in which brain atrophy advanced.
The Within-Population Formation of the Upper Range Limit in a Songbird
Authors: Grüebler Martin , Hirschheydt Johann von , Korner-Nievergelt Fränzi
Published: January 2021

The formation of the upper distributional range limit of species at mountain slopes is often based on environmental gradients resulting in changing demographic rates towards high elevations. However, we still lack an empiric understanding of how the interplay of demographic parameters forms the upper range limit in highly mobile species. Here, we study apparent survival and within-study area dispersal over a 700 m elevational gradient in barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) by using 15 years of capture-mark-recapture data. Annual apparent survival of adult breeding birds decreased while breeding dispersal probability of adult females, but not males increased towards the upper range limit. Individuals at high elevations dispersed to farms situated at lower elevations than would be expected by random dispersal. These results suggest higher turn-over rates of breeding individuals at high elevations, an elevational increase in immigration and thus, within-population source-sink dynamics between low and high elevations. The formation of the upper range limit therefore is based on preference for low-elevation breeding sites and immigration to high elevations. Thus, shifts of the upper range limit are not only affected by changes in the quality of high-elevation habitats but also by factors affecting the number of immigrants produced at low elevations.
Why energy lossless ferromagnetic materials can add energy losses onto type-II superconductors?
Authors: Ruiz Harold , Fareed Muhammad
Published: January 2021

Understanding the physical coupling between the macroscopic electromagnetic properties of type II superconductors (SC) and soft ferromagnetic materials (SFM), is root for progressing onto the application of SC-SFM metastructures in scenarios such as magnetic cloaking, magnetic shielding, and loss free current transmission systems. However, in the latter case understanding the origin of the rise in the hysteresis losses of the superconductor by effect of the coupling with the SFM has historically resulted in a notable challenge, it because this rise in the AC losses is simply counterintuitive due to the fact that the SFM itself does not add magnetization losses to the system and furthermore, there is no evidence of electrical current sharing between these two materials. Thus, aimed to resolve this long-standing problem, in this paper, we present a semi-analytical model for monocore SC-SFM heterostructures of cylindrical cross-section and self-field conditions, showing the first known map of AC-losses for SC-SFM magnetically shielded wires, with magnetic relative permeabilities for the SFM ranging from mur=5 (NiZn ferrites) to mur =350000 (pure Iron). The distribution of current density and magnetic field inside the SC-SFM metastructure is shown in great detail, revealing a remarkable agreement with the intriguing magneto optical imaging observations that were originally questioning the validness of the critical state theory. In this sense, we have extended the critical state theory within its variational formalism, incorporating a multipole functional approach which allows the direct finding of the coupling terms between a SC current and a SFM sheath, proving that all reported phenomena for the self-filed hysteretic behavior of SC-SFM heterostructures can be understood within the classical critical state model without the need to recur to the ansatz of overcritical currents.
A Questionnaire-Based Survey to Assess the Timing of Intubation in COVID-19 Pneumonia.
Authors: Samal Samir , Mishra Shakti Bedanta , Patra E Shantanu Kumar , Kasimahanti Rajesh
Published: January 2021

BackgroundMany COVID19 pneumonia patients progress to Acute respiratory distress syndrome and end up in Intensive Care Units. Given that it is a novel viral infection, the progress of the disease, its management and associated outcomes are yet to be studied in detail. ARDS associated with COVID 19 is the same as before or different and the timing of intubation in such patients is a topic up for debate. This survey aimed to assess the opinion regarding management of COVID 19 ARDS and the timing of intubation in those patients.Methods292 clinicians including anesthesiologists, intensivists and others involved in managing COVID 19 ARDS patients at various centres were surveyed with web-based questionnaire cross sectionally within the time period of 10th June 2020 to 31st August 2020 after taking prior consent. Their responses were recorded and analyzed with statistical software IBM SPSS version 25.0.Results Among 292 included participants, 172 were intensivist, 84 were anesthesiologists and rest were others. Most of the intensivists (51.2%) had seen more than 100 COVID 19 severe ARDS patients. Around 82% of clinicians were agreed that COVID 19 ARDS was different from another form of ARDS. 67.1% of participants were agreed with patient induced self-inflicted injury could have happened in this disease. Likewise, around 91.8% of doctors involved in managing patients were believed that HFNC could be helpful if there were falling of saturation. 37% of participants were not agreed with early intubation, which may increase the risk of mortality and nosocomial infections.Conclusions and RelevanceThere was confusion in most doctors with intubation timing even if there was an indication for intubation. These confusions may be due to non-availability of specific recommendation regarding intubation in COVID 19 severe ARDS patients. However, most of the literature recommended for early intubation in these patients when indicated.
Effects of Rewarming with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation to Restore Oxygen Transport and Organ Blood Flow After Hypothermic Cardiac Arrest in a Porcine Model.
Authors: Nilsen Jan Harald , Schanche Torstein , Valkov Sergei , Mohyuddin Rizwan , Haaheim Brage , Kondratiev Timofei V , Næsheim Torvind , Sieck Gary C , Tveita Torkjel
Published: January 2021

Background: We recently documented that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for hypothermic cardiac arrest maintains cardiac output (CO) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) to the same reduced level during normothermia (38°C) vs. hypothermia (27°C). Furthermore, continuous CPR at 27°C maintains CO and MAP throughout a 3-h period, and provides O2 delivery to support aerobic metabolism. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) rewarming to restore O2 delivery and organ blood flow. Methods: Eight male pigs were anesthetized and immersion cooled to 27°C. After induction of hypothermic cardiac arrest, CPR was started and continued for a 3-h period. Thereafter, the animals were rewarmed with ECMO. Organ blood flow was measured using microspheres. Results: After cooling with spontaneous circulation to 27°C, MAP and CO were initially reduced to 66 and 44% of baseline, respectively. By 15 min after the onset of CPR, there was a further reduction in MAP and CO to 42 and 25% of baseline, respectively, which remained unchanged throughout the rest of 3-h CPR. During CPR, O2 delivery and O2 uptake (V̇O2) fell to critical low levels, but the simultaneous small increase in lactate and a modest reduction in pH, indicated the presence of maintained aerobic metabolism. Rewarming with ECMO restored MAP, CO, O2 delivery, and blood flow to the heart and to parts of the brain, whereas flow to kidneys, stomach, liver and spleen remained significantly reduced. Conclusions: CPR for 3-h at 27°C with sustained lower levels of CO and MAP and maintained aerobic metabolism sufficient to support O2 delivery. Rewarming with ECMO restores blood flow to the heart and brain, and creates a “shockable” cardiac rhythm. Thus, like continuous CPR, ECMO rewarming plays a crucial role in “the chain of survival” when resuscitating victims of hypothermic cardiac arrest.
Wheel Setting Error Modelling and Compensation for Arc Envelope Grinding of Large-aperture Aspherical Optics
Authors: Li Changsheng , Sun Lin , Chen Zhaoxiang , Chen Jianfang , Lin Qijing , Ding Jianjun , Jiang Zhuangde
Published: January 2021

Precision grinding is the key process to meet the heavy demands of large-aperture aspherical optical elements in the fields of laser nuclear fusion devices, large-aperture astronomical telescopes and high-resolution space cameras. In this study, the arc envelope grinding process of large-aperture aspherical optics was investigated using the CM1500 precision grinding machine with a maximum machinable diameter of Φ1500 mm. The analytical form error models of aspherical workpiece induced by wheel setting errors were established for both parallel grinding and cross grinding. Result show that the form error is much more sensitive to the wheel setting error along the feed direction than that along the lateral direction. It is a bilinear function of the feed-direction wheel setting error and the distance to optical axis. Based on the above analysis, a method to determine the wheel setting error is proposed. The grinding tests were then performed with the wheel accurately aligned. By using a newly proposed partial error compensation method with an appropriate compensation factor, a form error of 3.4 µm PV for a Φ400 mm elliptical K9 glass surface was achieved.
Significance of Detecting the Levels of miR-29a, Survivin and Igras in Patients With Lung Cancer and Tuberculosis
Authors: sun lijuan , Li Hongyun , Fu Qun , Hu Shuangmin , Zhao Wenfei
Published: January 2021

Background:When lung cancer is combined with tuberculosis at the same time, it is easy to be misdiagnosed and missed. The purpose of this article is to provide reference for patients with lung cancer complicated by active pulmonary tuberculosis. Methods:The concentration of survivin in diseased tissue and miR-29a and IGRAs in serum in 25 patients with non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) complicated by active pulmonary tuberculosis (APT) and 32 patients with NSCLC and 30 patients with APT were measured. Results:The expressions of miR-29a in serum of the APT group were higher than those of the NSCLC complicated by APT group and the NSCLC group (p<0.05). The expressions of survivin in diseased tissue of the NSCLC complicated by APT group and the NSCLC group were higher than those of the APT group (p<0.05).The expression level of IGRAs in serum of the NSCLC complicated by APT group and the APT group was higher than those of the NSCLC group (p<0.05), the expression level of IGRAs in serum of the NSCLC complicated by APT group was higher than the APT group. Conclusion:We should be on guard against patients with APT complicated by lung cancer, when miR-29a was low expression in serum and survivin was high expression in diseased tissue of the patient who was pathologically diagnosed with APT. We should be on the alert for patients with lung cancer complicated by APT, when miR-29a was high expression in serum and survivin was low expression in diseased tissue and IGRAs was high level in serum of the patient with lung cancer.
Sex Difference in The Association Between Plasma Selenium and First Stroke: A Community-Based Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Hu Huan , Bi Chonglei , Lin Tengfei , Liu Lishun , Song Yun , Wang Binyan , Wang Ping , Zhou Ziyi , Fang Chongqian , Ma Hai , Huang Xiao , Hu Lihua , Xu Xiping , Zhang Hao , Huo Yong , Wang Xiaobin , Bao Huihui , Cheng Xiaoshu , Li Ping
Published: January 2021

Background: To date, there is no clearly defined association between plasma selenium levels and first stroke. We aimed to investigate the association between baseline plasma selenium and first stroke risk in a community-based, Chinese population. Methods: Using a nested case-control study design, a total of 1255 first stroke cases and 1255 matched controls were analyzed. Participant plasma selenium concentrations were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and the association of plasma selenium with first stroke risk was estimated by conditional logistic regression models. Results: Overall, a nonlinear negative association between plasma selenium with first total stroke and first ischemic stroke risks was found in males, but not in females. Compared with participants with lower selenium levels (tertile 1-2, <94.1 ng/mL), participants with higher selenium levels (tertile 3, ≥94.1 ng/mL) had significantly lower risks of first total stroke (OR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.48, 0.83) and first ischemic stroke (OR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.83) in males, but not in females with first total stroke (OR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.69, 1.22) and first ischemic stroke (OR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.65, 1.22). Furthermore, a stronger association between plasma selenium and first total stroke was found in males with higher vitamin E levels (≥13.5 μg/mL vs. <13.5 μg/mL P-interaction=0.007). No significant association was observed between plasma selenium and first hemorrhagic stroke risk in either males or females. Conclusion: Our study indicated a significant, nonlinear, negative association between plasma selenium and first stroke in males, but not in females.TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR1800017274.
Early Period Mitral Stenosis After Mitral Annuloplasty: Functional or Real Stenosis?
Authors: Asil Serkan , Barış Veysel Özgür , Görmel Suat , Çelik Murat , Yüksel Uygar Çağdaş
Published: January 2021

Background:Surgical repair of rheumatic mitral valve disease is technically more demanding however, mitral repair is preferred over mechanical valve implantation if possible. İn this case report we presented the case of functional mitral stenosis after surgical mitral valve repair and annuloplasty ring implantation for rheumatic mitral regurgitation. Case Report:A 64-year-old female patient was admitted to our clinic with progressively worsening shortness of breath (New York Heart Association-Classification II-III), 6 months after surgical mitral valve repair and annuloplasty ring implantation for rheumatic mitral regurgitation. The 28/13 mmHg gradient was observed in the mitral valve annuloplasty ring in transthoracic echocardiography. TEE findings showed that motions of the mitral valve leaflet were fine, but in the mitral annuloplasty ring there was an extreme constriction and increased gradient.Conclusion:The development of mitral stenosis following mitral valve surgery is a condition associated with multiple mechanisms that are poorly understood. Mitral valve repair can be difficult and low success rate, especially in rheumatic mitral valve patients. The defect in the surgical technique and the application of restrictive small annuloplasty causes an increased gradient, leading to the development of severe functional mitral stenosis, especially when accompanied by a slight increase in pannus tissue.
Genomic Portrait of Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus ST772-SCCmec V Lineage From India
Authors: Bakthavatchalam Yamuna , Vasudevan Karthick , Rao Shoma , Varughese Santosh , Rupali Priscilla , Gina Maki , Zervos Marcus , Peter John , Veeraraghavan Balaji
Published: January 2021

BackgroundSignificant changes in the epidemiology of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) were recognised with the emergence of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. However, studies on the molecular epidemiology and the genomic investigation of MRSA are limited in India. The aim of the study was to understand the molecular epidemiology of MRSA causing bloodstream infection and also to investigate the origin and evolution of ST772 S. aureus isolated from India.ResultsSCCmec V (42%) was the predominant gene followed by SCCmec III (27%), SCCmec IV (13%), SCCmec I (7%) and SCCmec II (3%). We demonstrate the presence of multiple SCCmec types in 18 isolates. MLST analysis revealed ten different clonal complexes and three singletons. ST772 (27%), ST22 (19%) and ST239 (16%) were the predominant MRSA genotypes in causing bloodstream infection. The spa types were highly diverse. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that nearly three-fourth of the Indian STT72-SCCmec V isolates belongs to dominant (ST772-A2) and emerging subgroups (ST772-A3). A prophage Φ IND772 carrying PVL toxin and a staphylococcal enterotoxin A was noticed in all isolates, except two. In addition, three distinct genomic islands (vSa-alpha, beta and gamma) were universally seen in all ST772 S. aureus genomes. A pattern of increasing antimicrobial resistance was noticed in the dominant and emerging subgroups. An integrated resistance plasmid encoding resistance clusters for beta-lactam (blaZ), macrolides (mphC, msrA), and aminoglycoside resistance (aphA-III, sat-4, aadE) was identified in all isolates, except four basal strains. ST772-SCCmec V was emerged on the Indian subcontinent in 1964 and diverged into a dominant subgroup in 1991. Furthermore, the expansion is likely to be associated with the acqusition of mobile genetic elements such as integrated resistance plasmid and SCCmec V (5C2) as well as the fixation of double serine mutation (S84L, S80Y) in the quinolone resistance determining region. ConclusionsST772-SCCmec V has the multi-drug resistance trait of hospital-associated (HA) MRSA and the epidemiological characteristics of CA-MRSA. ST772 S. aureus have consistent virulence and resistance determinants which may results in successful survival in both community and hospital settings.
Excellent thermoelectric performance of ZrTe2 thin films and device
Authors: Suen Chun Hung , Cai Songhua , Li Hui , Zhang Long , Yang Kunya , Wang Huichao , He Mingquan , Chai Yisheng , Zhou Kai , Wong Chi Man , Wang Jiannong , Zhou Xiaoyuan , Dai Jiyan
Published: January 2021

Achieving high thermoelectric power factor in thin film heterostructures is essential for integrated and miniatured thermoelectric device applications. In this work, we demonstrate a mechanism and device performance of enhanced thermoelectric power factor through coupling the interfacial confined two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) with thin film conductivity in a transition metal dichalcogenides-SrTiO3 heterostructure. Owing to the formed conductive interface with two-dimensional electron confinement effect and the elevated conductivity, the ZrTe2/SrTiO3 (STO) heterostructure presents enormous thermoelectric power factor as high as 4×10^5 μW/cmK^2 at 20 K and 4800 μW/cmK^2 at room temperature. Formation of quasi-two-dimensional electrons gas at the interface is attributed to the giant Seebeck coefficient, and enhanced electrical conductivity is suggested to be originated from charge transfer induced doping in the ZrTe2, which leads to extremely large thermoelectric power factor. By taking the thermal conductivity of STO substrate as a reference, the effective zT value of this heterostructure can reach 1.5 at 300 K. This high thermoelectric figure of merit is demonstrated by a prototype device based on this heterostructure which results in 3K temperature cooling by passing through a current of 100 mA. This superior thermoelectric property makes this heterostructure a promising candidate for future thermoelectric device, and more importantly, paves a new pathway to design promising high-performance thermoelectric systems.
Coal Fly Ash liquid on Growth amendments of Eri silkworm and amelioration of horticulture crops
Authors: Sahayaraj Kitherian , Arumugavel Suppiah , Ponsankar Athirstam , Madasamy Mariappan
Published: January 2021

To enhanced the development and reproduction of Eri silkworm incorporation of Coal Flyash Liquid (CFL) in their natural diet was developed to evaluate the growth and fecundity rate of eri silkworm. energy dispersive analysis of castor leaves treated with CFL at 10% concentration revealed the presence of five major minerals viz., magnesium (Mg), silica (Si), chlorine (Cl), potassium (K) and calcium (Ca). While CFL incorporated castor leaf enhanced the pupation rate, shell weight, cocoon shell ratio, fecundity and egg hatchability of the silkworm. In contrast, pupal weight was increased at lower concentration of CFL with a weight of 2.39 mg. A significant difference was observed in rearing performance of eri silkworm at different concentrations of CFL incorporated castor leaf. Relative growth rate of the eri silkworm was increased to 84% when larvae treated with CFL at 5% concentration. Further, CFL at the concentration of 5% enhanced the seed germination percentage and at the higher concentration of 10% increased the root-shoot ratio, relative water content and vigour index of cucumber. Similar response of increase in studied growth parameters was also observed in radish seedlings when treated with CFL. The physiochemical properties of CFL amended soil (5%) showed that available phosphorous level and potassium level was increased respectively to 9.52% and 53.92% in comparison to control. It could be concluded that minerals present in CFL may be influential and responsible for the growth of eri silkworm and seedling of cucumber and radish.
Exploring magmatic gas and subvolcanic hydrothermal system interactions: Mineralogy and sulfur isotope characteristics of the Holocene volcanic products at Mt. Tangkuban Parahu, Indonesia.
Authors: Angkasa Syahreza Saidina , Tsukasa Ohba , Takumi Imura , Manalo Pearlyn , Ryohei Takahashi
Published: January 2021

A subvolcanic-hydrothermal system involves complex interaction between magma, magmatic fluids, and hydrothermal system at stratovolcanoes in subduction setting. These interactions are responsible for magmatic-hydrothermal eruption associated with rapid injection of magmatic gas into hydrothermal system at a certain depth of volcanic edifice. However, capturing these interactions is challenging due to inaccessibility to the crater conduit within the edifice. Therefore, we selected a method to analyze the volcanic products from several episodic phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions during the Holocene at Tangkuban Parahu, Indonesia. In this context, Holocene volcanic products are one of the best examples to understand an interplay between magma, magmatic fluids, and hydrothermal system in producing violent eruptions. In this study, we carried out petrological and sulfur isotope analysis only for the hydrothermally altered lithic ash particles, a part of proximal volcanic products. Mineral assemblages mostly exhibit a typical acid-sulfate and advanced argillic alteration, consisting of alunite, kaolinite, and silica minerals. Acid-sulfate and advanced argillic alteration indicates that those mineral assemblages were formed under the formation temperature ranging from ~100 to ~260 . The calculated temperature from sulfur isotopic fractionation of sulfate-sulfide shows 230-240 , which is almost identical with assigned temperature from mineral assemblages. Sulfur isotope and jarosite occurrence indicate the supergene alteration associated with oxygen entrainment to the hydrothermal system that oxidize pyrite to jarosite. Sulfur isotopic variation throughout the studied stratigraphy represents influx of magmatic gas to the hydrothermal system. Moreover, zoned P-bearing alunite represents repetitive injection of magmatic gas to the active acidic hydrothermal system, which also indicates the magmatic-hydrothermal interaction below the crater. Occurrence of enargite and chalcopyrite represents the nature of upper-level high sulfidation system at shallow volcanic edifice of the Tangkuban Parahu volcano. Furthermore, we showed that coupled petrological and sulfur isotope analysis has paramount importance to evaluate the conditions of the subvolcanic hydrothermal system, magmatic-hydrothermal interaction, and the origin of steam-blast eruptions at volcanoes that contain subvolcanic-hydrothermal systems.
The Wear Rate and Survivorship in Total Hip Arthroplasty using a Third- Generation Ceramic Head on a Conventional Polyethylene liner: A Minimum of 15-year Follow-up
Authors: Shim Bum-Jin , Choi Chang Hyun , Woo Inha , Park Chan Ho
Published: January 2021

Background: Recently, the use of ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP) bearing surfaces has increased in the United States with the development of material properties. However, it remains controversial which bearing couples are effective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the wear and survival rates of third-generation ceramic heads on a conventional polyethylene liner. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 160 hips (147 patients with a mean age of 56 years) who underwent total hip arthroplasty using the third-generation ceramic head on a conventional polyethylene liner from March 1998 to August 2003. The wear rate was evaluated using the PolyWare program Version 8 (Draftware Developers Inc., IN, USA) in 32 hips followed-up for at least 15 years. In addition, we evaluated the Kaplan-Meier survivorship.Results: Linear wear and volumetric wear rates were 0.102±0.57 mm/year and 30.2±27.5 mm3/year, respectively. Fourteen reoperations due to all causes and 10 revisions were performed during the follow-up period. The 15-year survival rate was 84.1% for any surgery as the endpoint and 87.6% for the revision surgery as the endpoint. Most of the causes of revision were cup loosening, and no ceramic head fracture occurred.Conclusions: The CoP bearing surface maintains the advantages of the soft polyethylene surface and has good resistance to wear. Therefore, alumina ceramic on newer polyethylene could certainly be a good alternative bearing couple without any concern for ceramic fractures, especially in younger patients.Level of evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort design
Development of Foot Length in Children with Congenital Clubfoot up to 7 Years of Age: A Prospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Manousaki Evgenia , Esbjörnsson Anna-Clara , Hägglund Gunnar , Andriesse Hanneke
Published: January 2021

Background: Clubfeet are typically shorter than normal feet. This study aimed to describe the development of foot length in a consecutive series of children with congenital clubfoot and to relate foot length to development of relapse and motion quality.Methods: Foot length was measured every 6 months in 72 consecutive children with congenital clubfoot (29 bilateral) aged from 2 to 7 years. The initial treatment was nonsurgical followed by standardized orthotic treatment. Foot length growth rate was calculated every half year. In children with unilateral clubfeet, the difference in foot length between the clubfoot and the contralateral foot was calculated. Motion quality was evaluated by the Clubfoot Assessment Protocol (CAP). Student’s t test, the Mann–Whitney U test and Spearman’s correlation were used for group comparisons. Bonferroni correction was used when multiple comparisons were performed.Results: Clubfeet were smaller (P < 0.001) than reference feet at all ages but had a similar growth rate up to age 7. Unilateral clubfeet with greater difference in size compared with the contralateral foot at the first measurement, relapsed more frequently (P = 0.016) and correlated with poorer motion quality (r = 0.4; P = 0.011).Conclusions: Clubfeet were smaller than reference feet at all ages but had a similar growth rate. Children with unilateral clubfeet and greater foot length difference at 2 years of age had a higher tendency to relapse and poorer motion quality at 7 years of age.
Surface Landmarks Combined With Image-guided Sinus Location in the Retrosigmoid Approach and Their Clinical Feature Analysis
Authors: Wu Weichi , Ke Chao , Liu Zhaoyang , Guo Xiaoyu , Zhou Yi , Lin Zhu , Liu Haibin , Mou Yonggao , Zhang Ji
Published: January 2021

Background During craniotomy for the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) lesion by the typical retrosigmoid approach, the exact exposure of the margin of the venous sinuses complex remains an essential but risky step. This study aimed to reveal the exact position of asterion and sinuses by combining preoperative imaging with intraoperative landmarks. and analyse their clinical features. Methods From February 2008 through November 2019, 94 patients who underwent removal of vestibular schwannoma (VS) through retrosigmoid craniotomies were enrolled in the series. We utilized preoperative images, including computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with intraoperative anatomical landmarks, to determine the exact location of the sigmoid sinus and the transverse and sigmoid sinuses junction (TSSJ). MRI T1 sequences with gadolinium and/or the CT bone window were used to measure the distance relationship of the asterion to the sigmoid sinus.Results In 94 cases of retrosigmoid craniotomies, we observed the asterion lay 12.71 millimeter on the posterior to the body surface projection of the TSSJ averagely. Intraoperative surface landmarks combined with preoperative image information identifying the distance from the asterion to sigmoid sinus at the transverse sinus level, enabled an appropriate initial burr-hole (the margin of the TSSJ ). Just one case had a minor laceration of the sigmoid sinus when the bone flap was opened.Conclusions By combining intraoperative anatomical landmarks with preoperative image information, the margin of the venous sinuses, especially the inferior margin of the transverse sinus in the retrosigmoid approach can be well and truly identified. The distance from the intersection of the asterion and occipitomastoid suture to the TSSJ is the shortest between the occipitomastoid suture and the sigmoid sinus.
LncRNA DLGAP1-AS2 Suppresses the Maturation of miR-16 to Suppress Cell Invasion and Migration of Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Luo Jie , Zhang Yuqiang , Zheng Ting , Jing Yongping , Cao Rongyu , Wu Minmin , Fan Die , Tao Ying , Zhao Mandan
Published: January 2021

Background: This study aimed to explore the role of lncRNA DLGAP1-AS2 in ovarian cancer (OC). Methods: Expression of DLGAP1-AS2, mature miR-16 and miR-16 precursor in paired OC tissues and non-tumor tissues collected from 62 OC patients was determined by RT-qPCR. Correlations were analyzed by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Overexpression of DLGAP1-AS2 was achieved in OC cell line UWB1.289 to explore the effects of DLGAP1-AS2 overexpression on the expression of mature miR-16 and miR-16 precursor by RT-qPCR. Transwell assays were performed to analyze the role of DLGAP1-AS2 and miR-16 in regulating the invasion and migration of UWB1.289 cells.Results: DLGAP1-AS2 was upregulated in OC and inversely correlated with mature miR-16, but not miR-16 precursor. In OC cells, DLGAP1-AS2 overexpression resulted in downregulated mature miR-16, but failed to significantly affect the expression of miR-16 precursor. Cell invasion and migration analysis showed that DLGAP1-AS2 overexpression reduced the inhibitory effects of miR-16 overexpression on cell invasion and migration.Conclusions: DLGAP1-AS2 may suppress the maturation of miR-16 to suppress cell invasion and migration of OC cells.
Determining the Sex-Specific Distributions of Average Daily Alcohol Consumption Using a Machine Learning Method: Is There a Separate Distribution for People With Alcohol Dependence?
Authors: Jiang Huan , Lange Shannon , Tran Alexander , Imtiaz Sameer , Rehm Jürgen
Published: January 2021

BackgroundIt remains unclear whether alcohol use disorders (AUDs) can be characterized by specific levels of average daily alcohol consumption. The aim of the current study was to model the distributions of average daily alcohol consumption among those who consume alcohol and those with alcohol dependence, the most severe AUD, using various machine learning techniques. MethodsData from Wave 1 and Wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions were used in the current analyses. Clustering algorithms were applied in order to group a set of data points that represent the average daily amount of alcohol consumed. Gaussian Mixture Models (GMMs) were then used to estimate the likelihood of a data point belonging to one of the mixture distributions. Individuals were assigned to the clusters which had the highest posterior probabilities from the GMMs, and their treatment utilization rate was examined for each of the clusters. ResultsModeling alcohol consumption via machine learning technique was feasible. The clusters identified did not point to alcohol dependence as a separate cluster characterized by a higher level of alcohol consumption. Among both females and males with alcohol dependence, daily alcohol consumption was relatively low. ConclusionsOverall, we found little evidence for clusters of people with the same drinking distribution, which could be characterized as clinically relevant for people with alcohol use disorders as currently defined.