bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and SARS-CoV-2 positive hospital admissions among children in South Africa
Authors: Kufa Tendesayi , Jassat Waasila , Cohen Cheryl , Tempia Stefano , Masha Maureen , Wolter Nicole , Walaza Sibongile , Gottberg Anne von , Govender Nelesh , Hunt Gillian , Shonhiwa Andronica , Ebonwu Joy , Ntshoe Genevie M. , Maruma Wellington , Bapela Poncho , Ndhlovu Nomathamsanqa , Mathema Hlengani , Modise Motshabi , Shuping Liliwe , Manana Pinky , Moore David , Dangoor Ziyaad , Verwey Charl , Madhi Shabir , Saloojee Haroon , Zar Heather J. , Blumberg Lucille
Published: September 2021

Introduction: We describe epidemiology and outcomes of confirmed
SARS-CoV-2 infection and admissions among children <18 years
in South Africa, an upper-middle income setting with high inequality.
Methods: Laboratory and hospital COVID-19 surveillance data, 28 January
- 19 September 2020 was used. Testing rates were calculated as number of
tested for SARS-CoV-2 divided by population at risk; test positivity
rates were calculated as positive tests divided by total number of
tests. In-hospital case fatality ratio (CFR) was calculated based on
hospitalized positive admissions with outcome data who died in-hospital
and death was judged SARS-CoV-2 related by attending physician.
Findings: 315,570 children aged <18 years were tested for
SARS-CoV-2; representing 8.9% of all 3,548,738 tests and 1.6% of all
children in the country. Of children tested, 46,137 (14.6%) were
positive. Children made up 2.9% (n=2,007) of all SARS-CoV-2 positive
admissions to sentinel hospitals. Among children, 47 died (2.6%
case-fatality). In-hospital deaths were associated with male sex
[adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.18 (95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.08 -
4.40)] vs female; age <1 year [aOR 4.11 (95% CI
1.08-15.54)], age 10-14 years [aOR 4.20 (95% CI1.07-16.44)], age
15-17 years [aOR 4.86 (95% 1.28 -18.51)] vs age 1-4 years;
admission to a public hospital [aOR 5.07(95% 2.01 -12.76)] vs
private hospital and ≥1 underlying conditions [aOR 12.09 (95% CI
4.19-34.89)] vs none Conclusions: Children with underlying conditions
were at greater risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 outcomes. Children
> 10 years and those with underlying conditions should be
considered for increased testing and vaccination.
On normalized Laplacian, degree-Kirchhoff index of the strong prism of the dicyclobutadieno derivative of linear phenylenes
Authors: Liu Jia-bao , Gu Jiaojiao
Published: September 2021

Phenylenes network is applied in several fields of chemistry sciences
due to its advantages compared to other several columnar networks,
recently. This paper aims to introduce a kind of networks which obtained
by a family of dicyclobutadieno derivative of linear phenylene chain Ln
which is made up of n hexagons and (n+1) quadrangles. Let L2n be the
strong prism of the dicyclobutadieno derivative of linear phenylenes Ln.
By taking full advantage of the knowleges about the normalized Laplacian
spectra, we induce the explicit expressions, with respect to the index
n, of the multiplicative degree-Kirchhoff index and the number of
spanning tree based on the graph L2n.
Dynamic, Electronic and Optical Properties of Fm3m-HgF2: A DFT Approach
Authors: VAGHELA M , Raval Dhara , Babariya Bindiya , Gajjar P.N.
Published: September 2021

In the present work, the cubic structure of HgF2 has been studied using
generalized gradient approximation within the framework of density
functional theory. Here, the positive phonon frequencies in the phonon
dispersion curves show stability of the structure. The elastic constants
also satisfy criteria of being kinetically stable material. The B/GH
ratio 2.56 of HgF2 indicates its ductile nature. The thermodynamic
intrinsic parameters of HgF2 have been calculated using linear response
method where the temperature variations of Helmholtz free energy (F),
internal energy (E), specific heat at constant volume (Cv) and Debay
temperature (ϴD) have been studied. The explanation of the bonding
nature is discussed using electronic band structure, density of states
and charge density. Here, the presence of the wide valence band gap in
electronic band structure and density of states displays the ionic
behaviors of HgF2. In addition, the charge density along the [111]
plane defines hybridization in between ‘s’, ‘p’ and ‘d’ orbitals in
HgF2. The optical parameters of Fm3m-HgF2 were calculated using Random
Phase Approximation. Here, the found static refractive index is 1.26.
The general optical study showing the trend of being transparent in most
of the UV region and fully transparent in the visible region by ionic
Fm3m HgF2. Also, it shows significant absorption in the entire UV region
and a long absorption tail which extends into the visible region.
Rectal irrigation as rescue therapy for refractory and severe hemorrhagic radiation proctitis: a case report
Authors: Pattarajierapan Sukit , Amornwichet Napapat , Khomvilai Supakij
Published: September 2021

Hemorrhagic chronic radiation proctitis (CRP) refractory to endoscopic
therapy is rare. Because of its high morbidity and mortality rates,
proctectomy is considered as the last resort. We report the successful
treatment of severe hematochezia refractory to endoscopic therapy and
diverting colostomy in a patient with CRP via rectal irrigation.
Invasive Cribriform Carcinoma of the Breast Detected Incidentally on Computed Tomography: A Case Report
Authors: Adachi Yasuhiro , Katsuki Takefumi , Sasaguri Takakazu , Hirata Keiji , Nagata Naoki
Published: September 2021

Invasive cribriform carcinoma is a rare type of invasive breast
carcinoma, and few cases have been reported. Its features are a
cribriform pattern resembling the histological structures of cribriform
ductal carcinoma in situ and an excellent prognosis. However, the extent
of progress for intraductal extension must be carefully evaluated.
The relativistic feature of Hydrogen-like atoms in Heisenberg picture
Authors: Jahanpanah Jafar , Vahedi A , Khosrojerdi H .
Published: September 2021

The relativistic behavior of Hydrogen-like atoms (HLAs) is investigated
in Heisenberg picture for the first time. The relativistic vibrational
Hamiltonian (RVH) is first defined as a power series of harmonic
oscillator Hamiltonian by using the relativistic energy eigenvalue . By
applying the first-order RVH (proportional to ) to Heisenberg equation,
a pair of coupled equations is turned out for the motion of electron
position and its relativistic linear momentum. A simple comparison of
the first-order relativistic and nonrelativistic equations reveals this
reality that the natural (fundamental) frequency of electron oscillation
(like entropy) is slowly raised by increasing the atomic number. The
second-order RVH (proportional to ) have then been implemented to
determine an exact expression for the electron relativistic frequency in
the different atomic energy levels. In general, the physical role of RVH
is fundamental because it not only specifies the temporal relativistic
variations of position, velocity, and linear momentum of oscillating
electron, but also identifies the corresponding relativistic potential,
kinetic, and mechanical energies. The results will finally be testified
by demonstrating the energy conservation.
Land-use change to subsistence farming has negligible impact on birds in Zimbabwe
Authors: Pringle J Stephen , Chiweshe Ngoni , Dallimer Martin
Published: September 2021

Habitat alterations that often accompany land-use change are one of the
major drivers of global biodiversity losses. In Africa, these threats
are especially severe, as this continent has the most rapidly growing of
all human populations. Inevitably, increasing areas of land are being
transformed for agriculture, including drought-prone drylands in
southern and central Africa, despite often having poor soils. In
Zimbabwe, a land reform programme provided a unique opportunity to study
the biodiversity response to abrupt habitat modification in an extensive
dryland area of mixed grassland and woodland savannah. Small-scale
subsistence farms were created rapidly during 2001-2002 in formerly
semi-natural savannah. We measured the changing compositions of bird
communities in transformed and untransformed land over an 8-year period,
commencing one decade after subsistence farms were established. Over the
study period, repeated counts were made along identical transects in
order to assess species’ population changes that may have resulted from
trait-filtering responses to habitat disturbance. We recorded
significantly increased abundances in both land-use areas, accompanied
by increases in species diversity and functional redundancy. Temporal
trends showed increased abundances across all feeding guilds, and in
species of virtually all sizes. Influxes of new species did not increase
functional traits’ diversity, and no species with distinctive traits
appear to have been lost as a result of land-use change. Nearly two
decades after habitat transformation, the bird communities in the
transformed and untransformed areas had become more similar in
composition. The broadly benign impact on birds of land conversion into
subsistence farms is attributed to the relatively low-level of human
activities and disturbance in the transformed land, and the large
regional pool of non-specialist bird species.
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia: incidence and severity in premature infants born at high altitude.
Authors: Buendia Jefferson , Ramieez Cristian , Benjumea Dione
Published: September 2021

Background: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common cause of
chronic lung disease in children born prematurely. There is little
information about the epidemiology and severity of BPD places with high
altitude. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of BPD severity
levels and the associated risk factors with severity in a cohort of
preterm newborns ≤34 weeks of gestational age born in Rionegro, Colombia
Materials and methods: We carried out a retrospective analytical cohort
of preterm newborns without major malformations from Rionegro, Colombia
between 2011-2018 admitted to neonatal intensive unit at high altitude
(2200m above sea level). The main outcomes were the incidence and
severity of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Results: The bronchopulmonary
dysplasia incidence was 25.7% (95% CI, 21.6-29.9). Bronchopulmonary
dysplasia was moderate in 62.1% of patients and severe in 26.7%. After
modeling regression analysis, the final variables associated with BPD
severity levels were: sepsis (OR 2.37 CI 95% 1.04-5.40) and pulmonary
hypertension (OR 3.79 CI95% 1.19-12). Conclusion: The incidence of BPD
was higher and similar to cities with higher altitudes. In our
population, the variables associated with BPD severity levels were:
duration of oxygen therapy and pulmonary hypertension. It is necessary
to increase the awareness of risk factors, the effect of clinical
practices, and early recognition of bronchopulmonary dysplasia to reduce
morbidity in patients with this pathology.
CoViD-19 Infection and Acute Pancreatitis with Pancreatic Pseudocyst. Is There a Causal Relationship?
Authors: Galloro Giuseppe , Zullo Angelo , Chini Alessia , Maione Rosa , Pollastro Matteo , Fierro Maria Martina , Cantore Grazia , Luglio Gaetano , Manta Raffaele , Palma Giovanni De
Published: September 2021

This report shows two cases of acute pancreatitis in CoViD-19 patients
with development of pancreatic pseudocyst treated with lumen apposing
stent and hypothesize on the possible cause-and-effect relationship
between the infection and pancreatitis. Considering literature data and
direct experience, it’s possible that coronavirus causes a direct damage
to pancreatic tissue.
Synchronous diffuse large B-cell lymphoma masquerading as jejunojejunal intussusception with unexplained pleural effusion in elderly male: A rare manifestation
Authors: Chang Junn-Liang , Liu Kuang-Ting , Chang Yueh-Ching
Published: September 2021

The primary gastrointestinal lymphoma is uncommon. This is a confirmed
case of synchronous primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma manifested as
jejunojejunal intussusception with lymph nodal and pleural metastasis.
Its clinical manifestations, morphological characteristics,
immunophenotypes, and molecular biological characteristics are very
different, which is the biggest challenge before surgery.
Structural analysis of the role of the two conserved motifs of the ECF41 family sigma factor in the autoregulation of its own promoter in Azospirillum brasilense Sp245
Authors: Pathak Ekta , Dubey AshutoshPrakash , Singh Vijay Shankar , Mishra Rajeev , Tripathi Anil Kumar
Published: September 2021

In Azospirillum brasilense, an extra-cytoplasmic function sigma
factor (RpoE10) shows the characteristic 119 amino acid long C-terminal
extension found in ECF41-type sigma factors, which possesses three
conserved motifs (WLPEP, DGGGR, and NPDKV), one in the linker region
between the sigma and sigma , and
the other two in the SnoaL_2 domain of the C-terminal extension. Here,
we have described the role of the two conserved motifs in the SnoaL_2
domain of RpoE10 in the inhibition and activation of its activity,
respectively. Truncation of the distal part of the C-terminal sequence
of the RpoE10 (including NPDKV but excluding the DGGGR motif) results in
its promoter’s activation suggesting autoregulation. Further truncation
of the C-terminal sequence up to its proximal part, including NPDKV and
DGGGR motif, abolished promoter activation. Replacement of NPDKV motif
with NAAAV in RpoE10 increased its ability to activate its promoter,
whereas replacement of DGGGR motif led to reduced promoter activation.
We have explored the dynamic modulation of sigma2 – sigma4 domains and
the relevant molecular interactions mediated by the two conserved motifs
of the SnoaL2 domain using molecular dynamics simulation. The analysis
enabled us to explain that the NPDKV motif located distally in the
C-terminus negatively impacts transcriptional activation. In contrast,
the DGGGR motif found proximally of the C-terminal extension is required
to activate RpoE1
Early association of Vemurafenib to standard chemotherapy in multisystemic Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a newborn: take the chance for a better outcome?
Authors: gaspari stefania , Ruscio Valentina Di , Stocchi Francesca , Carta Roberto , Becilli Marco , Ioris Maria Antonietta De
Published: September 2021

LCH is an aberrant monoclonal proliferation of dendritic cells, ranging
from a self-limiting local condition to a rapidly progressive
multisystemic disease. Pathogenic cells expressed, in almost 70% of
cases, an activation of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, in particular
BRAF V600E mutation. We report on a newborn with multisystemic disease
diagnosed in life-threatening medical conditions, who was successfully
treated with the early association of BRAF inhibitor Vemurafenib to
chemotherapy. After 12 months, Vemurafenib was discontinued, without any
signs of relapse. This case indicates that early combination of target
therapy with standard treatment may induce rapid response and prolonged
disease remission.
Age and baseline creatinine as risk factors for methotrexate nephrotoxicity in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in resource-limited countries
Authors: Anguiano Itzel , Leon Jose , Ruiz Ma.
Published: September 2021

Introduction. The search for risk factors for high-dose methotrexate
(MTX)–induced nephrotoxicity in children with acute lymphoblastic
leukemia (ALL) has been complex in the context of resource-limited
countries where serum levels of MTX are not always available. Objective.
To analyze the demographic, clinical, and biochemical factors associated
with MTX-induced nephrotoxicity in children with ALL. Methodology.
Case-control study in children with ALL from a General Hospital in
Mexico over a four-year period (2016-2020). Kidney damage was defined
with KDIGO criteria and the following variables were analyzed: sex, age,
weight, height, creatinine, urea, transaminases, hematic cytometry,
vomiting, mucositis, dermatitis, and number of MTX applications.
Results: One hundred and eight children were studied, 22 females (38%)
and 36 males (62%), ages 1 to14 years. The incidence of nephrotoxicity
was 5.8% in 238 events of MTX administration. The children in the group
with nephrotoxicity were older (average age 9.5 vs 5, p = 0.036), had
higher baseline creatinine (0.5 mg/dL vs 0.4 mg/dL p = 0.006), and had
lower baseline hemoglobin (10.1 g/dL vs 11.3 g/dL, p = 0.034). Mucositis
was associated with nephrotoxicity with OR 13 95% CI 4-42, p
<0.001. A cut-off value for creatinine of 0.44 mg/dL (AUC of
68%) and an age of 8 years (AUC of 64%) were identified for risk of
nephrotoxicity. Conclusions: The incidence of MTX nephrotoxicity in
children with ALL was 5.8%, with a high association with mucositis. The
risk is greater for children older than 8 years and baseline creatinine
higher than 0.44 mg/dL.
Phylogeography and evolutionary dynamics analysis of porcine delta-coronavirus with host expansion to humans
Authors: Li Gen , Zhai Shao-Lun , Zhou Xia , Chen Tianbao , Niu Jiawei , Xie YS , Si Guangbin , Cong Feng , Chen Ruiai , He Dongsheng
Published: September 2021

From 2003 onwards, three pandemics have been caused by coronaviruses:
severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV); middle east
respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV); and, most recently,
SARS-CoV-2. Notably, all three were transmitted from animals to humans.
This would suggest that animals are potential sources of epidemics for
humans. The emerging porcine delta-coronavirus was reported to infect
children. This is a red flag that marks the ability of PDCoV to break
barriers of cross-species transmission to humans. Therefore, we
conducted molecular genetic analysis of global clade PDCoV to
characterize spatio-temporal patterns of viral diffusion and genetic
diversity. PDCoV was classified into three major lineages, according to
distribution and phylogenetic analysis of PDCoV. It can be determined
that PDCoV originated in Asia—most likely in Southeast Asia—through
inference of migration rate and transmission routes. We also selected
six special spike amino acid sequences to align and analyze to find
seven significant mutation sites. The accumulation of these mutations
may enhance dynamic movements, accelerating spike protein membrane
fusion events and transmission. Altogether, our study offers a novel
insight into the diversification, evolution, and interspecies
transmission and origin of PDCoV and emphasizes the need to study the
zoonotic potential of the PDCoV and comprehensive surveillance and
enhanced biosecurity precautions for PDCoV.
Additive Manufacturing of Anisotropic Sm-Fe-N Nylon Bonded Permanent Magnets
Authors: Gandha Kinjal , Paranthaman Mariappan , Sales Brian , Wang Haobo , Dalagan Adrian , Lamichhane Tej , Parker David , Nlebedim Ikenna
Published: September 2021

Fabricating a bonded magnet with a near-net shape in suitable
thermoplastic polymer binders is of paramount importance in the
development of cost-effective energy technologies. In this work,
anisotropic Sm2Fe17N3 (Sm-Fe-N) bonded magnets are additively printed
using Sm-Fe-N anisotropic magnetic particles in a polymeric binder
polyamide-12 (PA12). The anisotropic bonded permanent magnets are
fabricated by Big Area Additive Manufacturing followed by post-aligned
in a magnetic field. Optimal post-alignment results in an enhanced
remanence of ~ 0.68 T in PA12 reflected in a
parallel-oriented (aligned) measured direction. The maximum energy
product achieved for the additively printed anisotropic bonded magnet of
Sm-Fe-N in PA12 polymer is 78.8 KJ m-3. Our results show advanced
processing flexibility of additive manufacturing for the development of
Sm-Fe-N bonded magnets in polymer media designed for applications with
no critical rare earth magnets.
Bilateral Cardiac Sympathetic Denervation on an ECMO patient for Refractory Ventricular arrhythmia: A Case Report.
Authors: Farran Akram , Lugo Daniel Farinas , Boyer Joseph
Published: September 2021

Genetic syndromes such as Brugada syndrome can lead to lethal
ventricular arrhythmias. Cardiac Sympathetic Denervation has been shown
to be effective in ameliorating refractory ventricular arrhythmias. We
present a 33-year-old black female with a past medical history of
Brugada syndrome with an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD), who
presented with refractory ventricular tachycardia/atrial fibrillation
leading to cardiogenic shock, requiring Extracorporeal membrane
oxygenation (ECMO). The patient subsequently underwent bilateral
stellate ganglion sympathetic denervation in the setting of refractory
ventricular arrhythmias. We present this case report to showcase that
thoracoscopic bilateral cardiac sympathetic denervation can be an
effective definitive treatment option for ventricular arrhythmias
refractory to medical management.
Relativistic One-Electron Atomic Energies and Properties
Authors: Gonzalez Gerardo , Alexander Steven , Coldwell R.L.
Published: September 2021

We use variance minimization and Monte Carlo integration to calculate
the relativistic one-electron atomic (Z=92) wavefunctions (both the
2-component and 4-component forms) for the 1S1/2, 2S1/2, 2P1/2, 2P3/2,
3S1/2, 3P1/2, 3P3/2, 3D3/2 and 3D5/2 states. With these wavefunctions we
then evaluate the energy, a variety of simple properties and the decay
rates for a number of E1, M1, E2 and M2 transitions. Our results are in
excellent agreement with those in the literature.
The clinical impact and benefits of a simultaneous cardiopulmonary rehabilitation in a COVID-19 infected patient following cardiac arrest: A Case Report
Authors: MD Jun Young Ko, , PT Jeong Jae Lee, MS, , MD Mi rim Lee, , PhD Yong Kyun Kim, MD, , MPH Seungbok Lee, MD,
Published: September 2021

The decline in cardio-respiratory function is rising among COVID-19
survivors amid the pandemic. Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is known to
be clinically effective but no studies show data to substantiate its
application. The simultaneous treatment improved cardiopulmonary
clinical indicators in our patient yielding enhanced functional
restoration to enable independent community participation.
Biodegradable 3D Printed Scaffolds of Modified Poly(trimethylene carbonate) Composite Materials with Poly(L-lactic acid) and Hydroxyapatite for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Kang Honglei , Dong Jiangxu , Liu Zhi Wei , Zhang Shengmin , Liu Fan , Li Feng , yan guoping
Published: September 2021

The biodegradable scaffolds based on biomedical polymeric materials have
attracted the wide interest in bone transplantation for clinical
treatment to bone defects without the second operation. The composite
materials of poly(trimethylene carbonate), poly(L-lactic acid) and
hydroxyapatite (PTMC/PLA/HA) were prepared by the modification and
blending of poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) with poly(L-lactic acid)
(PLA) and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HA). The PTMC/PLA/HA scaffolds
were further prepared by additive manufacturing using the biological 3D
printing method. The PTMC/PLA/HA composite materials and scaffolds were
also characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR),
GPC, automatic contact-angle, SEM, XRD, differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry (TG). Subsequently, their
properties, such as the mechanic, biodegradation, drug controlled
release, cell cytotoxicity, cell compatibility in vitro and
proliferation/differentiation assay in vivo, were also investigated.
Experiment results indicated that PTMC/PLA/HA scaffolds possessed the
low toxicity, good biodegradability and good biocompatibility and then
improved the cell proliferation of osteoblast cells (MC3T3-E1).
Moreover, PTMC/PLA/HA enhanced the adhesion and proliferation of
MC3T3-E1 cells, allowing penetration of host cells within the construct
boundaries, and then can enable the growing of bone cells and induction
of bone tissue regeneration. Therefore, PTMC/PLA/HA composite materials
can be used as the potential biodegradable scaffolds for bone
regeneration and tissue engineering in vivo.
Large-scale Production of Novel Porcine Circovirus Type 2d (PCV2d) Subunit Vaccine Using E. coli Platform
Authors: Noppiboon Sarawuth , Kerdboon Thunyaluk , Lapanusorn Neeracha , Ekkpongpaisit Pisit , Slack Sarah , Frank Stefanie , Hocharoen Lalintip
Published: September 2021

Porcine Circovirus type 2d (PCV2d) is becoming the predominant PCV
genotype and considerably affects the global pig industry. Nevertheless,
currently no commercial PCV2d vaccine is available. Preventing and
controlling the disease caused by PCV2d is therefore based on other
genotype-based vaccines. However, their production platforms are
laborious, limited in expression level and relatively expensive for
veterinary applications. To address these challenges, we have developed
a simple and cost-efficient platform for a novel PCV2d vaccine
production platform, using fed-batch E. coli fermentation followed by
cell disruption and filtration, and a single purification step via
cation exchange chromatography. The process was developed at bench scale
and then pilot scale where the PCV2d subunit protein yield was
approximately 0.8 g/L fermentation volume in a short production time.
Moreover, we have successfully implemented this production process at
two different sites, in Southeast Asia and Europe. This demonstrates
transferability and the high potential for successful industrial
production.
Diagnostic accuracy of diastolic function evaluation in acute dyspnea
Authors: Arnone Maria Immacolata , Sforza Alfonso , Carlino Maria Viviana , Guarino Mario , Ilaria Fucile , Luca Nicola De , Mancusi Costantino
Published: September 2021

Background Acute dyspnea (AD) is one of the main reasons for admission
to the Emergency Department (ED). In the last years integrated
ultrasound examination (IUE) of lung, heart and inferior vena cava
be-come an extension of clinical examination for a fast differential
diagnosis. The aim of present study is to assess the feasibility and
diagnostic accuracy of diastolic function evaluation for diagnosing
acute heart failure (aHF) in patients with acute dyspnea. Methods We
included 113 patients presenting to the ED of CTO Hospital in Naples
(Italy) for AD. All pa-tients underwent IUE of lung-heart-IVC with a
portable ultrasound device. Left ventricle diastolic function was
assessed using pulse wave doppler at the tips of the mitral valve and E
wave velocity and E/A ratio were recorded. The FINAL diagnosis
determined by two expert reviewers: acute HF or non-acute HF (non-aHF).
We used 2 × 2 contingency tables to analyze sensitivity, specificity,
positive predictive and negative predictive value of ultrasound
parameters for the diagnosis of AD, comparing with the FINAL diagnosis.
Results Lung ultrasound (LUS) showed high sensitivity, good specificity
and accuracy in identification of patients with HF. However the highest
accuracy was obtained by diastolic function parameters. The E/A ratio,
detected in patients in sinus rhythm, showed the highest diagnostic
performance with an AUC for aHF of 0.913. Conclusion In patients
presenting with AD E/A ratio is easy to obtain in a fast ultrasound
protocol and showed an excellent accuracy for diagnosis of acute HF.
A case of left ventricular apical thrombus induce embolic stroke in patient with stress cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kwon Seong Soon , Kim Gahyoung , Kim Shin Gil , Lee Kyung Bok , Park byoung-won
Published: September 2021

We report a case of left ventricular apical thrombus induce embolic
stroke in patient with stress cardiomyopathy. In this case, although we
initiated anticoagulant treatment after finding apical thrombus on time,
stroke occurred. However, favorable clinical results were achieved with
prompt percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy after early suspicion and
accurate diagnosis. This case emphasized the need for a follow-up
echocardiography during SCMP recovery period to evaluate possible
complications such as LV thrombus.
Etiology and characteristics and of community-acquired pneumonia among children requiring bronchoalveolar lavage in North China
Authors: Liu Ruihan , Zhang Yuyan , Han Wenli , Yang Lei , Li Na , Wang Yu , Ren Xueyun , Xin Meiyun , Hou Tongshu , Niu Fenghai , Wang Yayan , Zhao Qing , Ning Jun
Published: September 2021

Objective: To identify the pathogens and compare the clinical
characteristics between different type pathogen infection among children
with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) requiring bronchoalveolar
lavage. Study design: Children <14 years old hospitalized with
CAP requiring bronchoalveolar lavage were enrolled between February 2019
to January 2020. Multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain
reaction (mRT-PCR) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)
were used for pathogen detection. The demographic and clinical
characteristics were compared between different type pathogen infection
groups. Results: Among 1166 children studied, ≥1 pathogen was detected
in 1084 (93.0%) children and co-infection was detected in 215 (18.4%)
children. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and adenovirus
were the most frequently detected pathogens. Children infected with
atypical bacteria alone were older and more likely to display a fever,
cough, decreased breath sounds, consolidation, single lobar
infiltration, mucosal erosion and/or necrosis and plastic bronchitis.
Children with virus-atypical bacteria co-infection were more prone to
manifest fatigue, chest pain, tachypnea, chest indrawing, and mucosal
erosion and/or necrosis. Those infected with virus alone or co-infected
with ≥3 pathogens were liable to display changes in bronchial
morphology. Conclusions: Pathogens were detected in 93.0% of enrolled
children. M. pneumoniae infection might be the greatest pediatric
disease burden due to CAP in North China. Keywords: Children;
community-acquired pneumonia; bronchoalveolar lavage fluid; etiology;
co-infection.
Partners in space: Discordant population structure between legume hosts and rhizobium symbionts in their native range
Authors: Riley Alex , Grillo Michael , Epstein Brendan , Tiffin Peter , Heath Katy
Published: September 2021

Coevolution is predicted to depend on how the genetic diversity of
interacting species is geographically structured. Plant-microbe
symbioses such as the legume-rhizobium mutualism are ecologically and
economically important, but distinct life history and dispersal
mechanisms for these host and microbial partners, plus dynamic genome
composition in bacteria, present challenges for understanding spatial
genetic processes in these systems. Here we study the model rhizobium
Ensifer meliloti using a hierarchically-structured sample of 191 strains
from 21 sites in the native range and compare its population structure
to that of its host plant Medicago truncatula. We find high local
genomic variation and minimal isolation by distance across the rhizobium
genome, particularly at the two symbiosis elements pSymA and pSymB,
which have evolutionary histories and population structures that are
similar to each other but distinct from both the chromosome and the
host. While the chromosome displays weak isolation by distance, it is
uncorrelated with hosts. Patterns of discordant population structure
among elements with the bacterial genome has implications for bacterial
adaptation to life in the soil versus symbiosis, while discordant
population genetic structure of hosts and microbes might restrict local
adaptation of species to each other and give rise to phenotypic
mismatches in coevolutionary traits.
Failures to disagree' is essential for environmental science to effectively influence policy development.
Authors: Norberg Jon , Blenckner Thorsten , Cornell Sarah , Petchey Owen , Hillebrand Helmut
Published: September 2021

While environmental science, and ecology in particular, is working to
provide better understanding to base sustainable decisions on, the way
scientific understanding is developed can at times be detrimental to
this cause. Locked-in debates are often unnecessarily polarized and can
compromise any common goals of the opposing camps. The present paper is
inspired by a resolved debate from an unrelated field of psychology
where Nobel laureate David Kahneman and Garry Klein turned what seemed
to be a locked-in debate into a constructive process for their fields.
The present paper is also motivated by previous discourses regarding the
role of thresholds in natural systems for management and governance, but
its scope of analysis targets the scientific process within complex
social-ecological systems in general. We identified five features of
environmental science that appear to predispose for locked-in debates:
1) The strongly context dependent behaviour of ecological systems. 2)
The dominant role of single hypothesis testing. 3) The high prominence
given to theory demonstration compared investigation. 4) The effect of
urgent demands to inform and steer policy. This fertile ground is
further cultivated by human psychological aspects as well as the
structure of funding and publication systems.
β-diversity in temperate grasslands is driven by stronger environmental filtering of plant species with large genomes
Authors: Zhang Hai-Yang , Lü Xiaotao , wei cunzheng , Powell Jeff , Wang Xiaobo , Xing Dingliang , Han Xing-Guo
Published: September 2021

Elucidating mechanisms underlying community assembly and biodiversity
patterns is central to ecology and evolution. Genome size (GS, i.e.
nuclear DNA content) determines species’ capacity to tolerate
environmental stress and therefore potentially drives community
assembly. However, its role in driving β-diversity (i.e., spatial
variability in species composition) remains unclear. We measured GS for
161 plant species and investigated their occurrences within plant
communities across 52 sites spanning a 3200-km transect in the temperate
grasslands of China. Using species distribution modelling, we found that
environmental factors showed larger effects on β-diversity of large-GS
than that of small-GS species and that communities with abundant
resources had a greater representation of large-GS species. The latter
finding was confirmed following analysis of data from a 10-yr resource
(water, nitrogen, and phosphorus) manipulation experiment in which
resource addition resulted in increased community weighted GS based on
plant biomass estimates, suggesting that large-GS species are more
sensitive to environmental resource limitation and explaining the
greater environmental selection on β-diversity of large-GS species.
These findings highlight the roles of GS in driving community assembly
and predicting species responses to global change.
Linear Relationships for Modeling CO2 Absorption in Aqueous Alkanolamine Solutions in a Thermodynamically Consistent Way
Authors: Yuan Xiaoshuai , Ng Chin Feng , Heather Nikolic , Liu Kunlei
Published: September 2021

A thermodynamically consistent model for the carbon dioxide (CO2)
absorption in aqueous alkanolamine system is of great importance in the
research and development of a CO2 capture process. To facilitate the
development of thermodynamic models, linear Gibbs free energy, enthalpy,
and heat capacity relationships using well-known amines as reference are
used to correlate the standard reference state properties of ionic
species with those of molecular species in the electrolyte system, which
has been approved to provide a reliable and consistent way to estimate
required parameters when there is minimal or no appropriate experimental
data available. The proposed relationships have been applied to the
development of an electrolyte Non-Random Two Liquid (NRTL) activity
coefficient model for CO2 absorption in aqueous 1-amino-2-propanol (A2P)
solution, as an example to demonstration the methodology. With limited
vapor-liquid equilibrium data and other thermodynamic properties, the
parameters in the electrolyte NRTL model are identified with good
accuracy.
A strategy for constructing highly efficient Co3O4-C@SiO2 nanofibers catalytic membrane for NOx-SCR and dust removal
Authors: Zhou Huixian , Kang Yutang , zhong Hui , Chen Bin , Ma Shuanglu , Li Yifan , Zhang Yu , Feng Shasha , Zhong Zhaoxiang , Xing Weihong
Published: September 2021

The strategy of constructing catalytic membrane has a significant
influence on its structure and performance. In this work, Co3O4-Cx@SiO2
nanofiber membranes (NFMs) were fabricated by an in-situ
growth–pyrolysis–oxidation strategy. The Co3O4-Cx catalyst derived
from ZIF-67 was wrapped around nanofibers, which helps to maintain a
stable membrane structure, then suppressing the reduction of gas
permeability. Among the Co3O4-Cx catalyst, the carbon skeleton can
prevent the agglomeration of Co3O4 nanoparticles, obtaining an
ultra-fine Co3O4 nanoparticles with high dispersibility, redox property
and surface area. The obtained Co3O4-C300@SiO2 NFM exhibits excellent
filtration efficiency and low pressure drop for PM2.5 (99.99% and 55
Pa) and outstanding catalytic performance with T90 of 245 °C for
NH3-SCR, which is 40.3% higher than that of Co3O4@SiO2 NFM. This work
might provide a universal strategy for the preparation of catalytic
membrane with high-performance.
Intensification of liquid mixing and local turbulence using a fractal injector with staggered conformation
Authors: Jiang Shuxian , Coppens Marc-Olivier , WANG Jia-Jun
Published: September 2021

Two self-similar, tree-like injectors of the same fractal dimension are
compared, demonstrating that other geometric parameters besides
dimension play a crucial role in determining mixing performance. In one
injector, when viewed from the top, the conformation of branches is
eclipsed; in the other one, it is staggered. The flow field and the
fractal injector induced mixing performance are investigated through
computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The finite rate/eddy
dissipation model (FR/EDM) is modified for fast liquid-phase reactions
involving local micromixing. Under the same operating conditions, flow
field uniformity and micromixing are improved when a staggered fractal
injector is used. This is because of enhanced jet entrainment and local
turbulence around the spatially distributed nozzles. Compared with a
traditional double-ring sparger, a larger reaction region volume and
lower micromixing time are obtained with fractal injectors. Local
turbulence around the spatially distributed nozzles in fractal injectors
improves reaction efficiency.
Growth and Space-use of Eastern Red-backed Salamanders (Plethodon cinereus) in Mature and Regenerating Forests
Authors: Gade Meaghan , Gould Philip , Wilk Andrew , Donlon Kate , Brown Mackenzie , Behan Marnie , Roseman Marissa , Tutterow Annalee , Amber Evan , Wagner Ryan , Hoffman Andrew , Peterman William
Published: September 2021

Movement and demographic rates are critical to the persistence of
populations in space and time. Despite their importance, estimates of
these processes are often derived from a limited number of populations
spanning broad habitat or environmental gradients. With increasing
appreciation of the role fine-scale environmental variation in
microgeographic adaptation, there is need and value to assessing
within-site variation in movement, growth, and demographic rates. In
this study, we analyze three years of spatial capture-recapture data
collected from a mixed-use deciduous forest site in central Ohio, USA.
Study plots were situated in mature forest on a slope and in
successional forest on a ridge but were separated by less than 100-m
distance. Our data showed that the density of salamanders was less on
ridges, which corresponded with greater distance between nearest
neighbors, less overlap in core use areas, greater space-use, and
greater shifts in activity centers when compared to salamander occupying
the slope habitat. However, these differences were moderate. In
contrast, we estimated growth rates of salamanders occupying the ridge
to be significantly greater than salamander on the slope. These
differences result in ridge salamanders reaching maturity more than one
year earlier than slope salamanders, increasing their lifetime fecundity
by as much as 43%. The patterns we observed in space use and growth are
likely the result of density-dependent processes, reflecting differences
in resource availability or quality. Our study highlights how
fine-scale, within-site, variation can shape population demographics. As
research into the demographic and population consequences of climate
change and habitat loss and alteration continue, future research should
take care to acknowledge the role that fine-scale variation may play,
especially for organisms with small home ranges or limited vagility.
Breeding pattern of Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Pisces: Cichlidae) versus native congeneric species, Oreochromis macrochir (Boulinger, 1912) in the upper Kabompo River, northwest of Zambia
Authors: Jere Arthertone , Jere Wilson , Mtethiwa Austin , Kassam Daud
Published: September 2021

Investigating the determinants of reproductive biology of fishes is an
essential component of biological research. Breeding pattern was
investigated to determine the impact of exotic Oreochromis niloticus on
the native congeneric Oreochromis macrochir in the upper Kabompo River.
Gonado-somatic index and sex ratio was used to investigate the breeding
pattern in both invaded (where O. niloticus is present) and uninvaded
(where O. niloticus is absent) sections of the river. Oreochromis
macrochir was the only native congeneric species found in both sections.
Results showed that the overall gonado-somatic index means for both
sexes of O. macrochir in both sections were similar. For O. niloticus in
invaded section indicated all year reproduction though reduced spawning
in cold season (May-June), but with increased spawning activity in wet
season (February-March). In O. macrochir, males and females were found
breeding in both dry and wet seasons only, as for cold season no
reproduction was recorded. Sex ratio (females: males) was 1:1.3 and
1:1.7 for O. niloticus and O. macrochir respectively, and both
significantly deviated from the sex ratio of 1:1 (ꭓ2=8.42 and 9.37;
p<0.05). Oreochromis niloticus formed the most abundant fish
caught 221(63.5%) than O. macrochir 127(36.5%). Our study has revealed
that O. niloticus was able to spawn in all seasons with 23% higher
breeding population than O. macrochir, which explains the suppression in
the abundance. We expect O. niloticus to invade further downstream of
the Kabompo River due to natural dispersion.
Pharmacovigilance in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A review with particular focus on Africa
Authors: Kiguba Ronald , Olsson Sten , Waitt Catriona
Published: September 2021

Low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) face unique challenges with
regard to the establishment of robust pharmacovigilance systems capable
of generating data to inform healthcare policy and practice. These
include the limited integration and reliance of pharmacovigilance
systems across LMIC despite recent efforts to harmonize
pharmacovigilance rules and regulations in several regional economic
communities; the need to translate reporting tools into numerous local
languages; low numbers of healthcare providers relative to number of
patients, with very short consultation times; scarcity of well-trained
pharmacovigilance personnel with little or no budgetary support for
these activities from national governments; high turnover of
pharmacovigilance staff whose training involves a substantial amount of
resources; little awareness of pharmacovigilance among healthcare
workers, decision makers and consumers; very low spontaneous reporting
rates with poor quality reports which hinders robust signal detection
analyses; little collaboration between public health programmes and
national medicines regulatory authorities; limited investment in
pharmacovigilance activities especially during mass drug administration
for neglected tropical diseases; high uptake of herbal and traditional
medication, mostly by self-medication; disruptive political conflicts
jeopardizing fragile systems; and little or no access to drug
utilization data which makes it difficult to reliably estimate the true
safety risks of medicine use. This review summarises the specific
challenges and areas of progress in pharmacovigilance in LMIC with
special focus on the situation in Africa.
Twice Neglected? Neglected Diseases in Neglected Populations
Authors: Weld Ethel , Waitt Catriona , Barnes Karen , GARCIA-BOURNISSEN FACUNDO
Published: September 2021

It is unfortunately true that clinicians lack the necessary evidence to
know how to use medications properly in large sections of the
population, and we do not have optimal drugs to use in many Neglected
Tropical Diseases (NTDs). NTD’s often disproportionately affect
neglected populations such as children and pregnant women. As reliable
access to safe, effective preventives and treatments can break the cycle
of poverty, illness, and ensuing debility that further perpetuates
poverty, it is of paramount importance to investigate and develop new
medicines for neglected populations suffering from NTDs. Furthermore,
there is not only a need to develop and evaluate novel therapies, but
also to ensure that these are affordable, available, and adapted to the
communities who need them. With this editorial, the British
Pharmacological Society hereby launches a call for high-quality articles
focusing on NTDs in special populations, to facilitate the reversal of
this dual neglect.
Diagnosis and management of neutropenia in children: consensus audit of the “Associazione Italiana Ematologia Oncologia Pediatrica” (AIEOP) experts
Authors: Fioredda Francesca , Onofrillo Daniela , Farruggia Piero , Barone Angelica , Veltroni Marinella , Notarangelo Lucia , Menna Giuseppe , Russo Giovanna , Martire Baldo , Finocchi Andrea , Verzegnassi Federico , Bonanomi Sonia , Ramenghi Ugo , Pillon Marta , Dufour Carlo
Published: September 2021

SUMMARY Neutropenia is a generic term that indicates a reduction of
neutrophils below the threshold for age and race. This condition
encompasses a number of diseases with a wide range of duration and
severity. In the present paper, the approach to diagnosis and treatment
of neutropenia has been reviewed and implemented with the knowledge
acquired during the last decade, by a group of experts, 10 years after
the first publication. The diagnostic itinerary highlights the most
important tools available to define the type of neutropenia and updates
the list of genes causative of the disease. In addition, the present
paper underlines the progresses towards a better definition of “primary
autoimmune neutropenia” without remission which often hides different
diseases. Moreover, indications on how to speed up neutropenia diagnosis
and the indications to perform the bone marrow examination in the
genetic forms, are given. The management and treatment of the
“well-known” diseases and “special situations” are also reviewed
giving literature derived and expert opinion-based suggestions tailored
on the single patient/diagnosis.