bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Solutions for a Blockchain Compliance with GDPR
Authors: Godyn Mateusz , Kedziora Michal , Ren Yingying , Liu Yongxin , Song Houbing
Published: July 2022

The aim of this paper was to perform an analysis of the state-of-art solutions of the permissioned blockchain compliance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), including the implementation of one of the analyzed methods and own solution. This paper covers the subject of GDPR and its impact on already existing blockchain databases in order to determine the domain of the problem, including the necessity to introduce mutability in the data structure to comply with the "right to be forgotten". The performed analysis made it possible to discuss current research in technical terms, as well as in the regulation itself. In the experimental part, attempts were made to research and implement Reference-based Tree Structure (RBTS), including the performance tests. The proposed solution is efficient and easily reproducible. The deletion of unwanted content is quick and requires consent only from the owner of personal data, therefore, eliminating the dependency on the other blockchain network participants.
Discovery and structural characterization of chicoric acid as a SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein ligand and RNA binding disruptor
Authors: Mercaldi Gustavo , Bezerra Eduardo , Batista Fernanda Aparecida , Tonoli Celisa , Soprano Adriana , Shimizu Jacqueline , Nagai Alice , Silva Jaqueline da , Ribeiro-Filho Helder , Faria Jessica , Cunha Marcos da , Zeri Ana , Nascimento Andrey Fabricio , Proenca-Modena Jose Luiz , Bajgelman Marcio , Rocco Silvana , Lopes-de-Oliveira Paulo , Cordeiro Artur , Bruder Marjorie , Marques Rafael Elias , Sforca Mauricio , Franchini Kleber , Benedetti Celso , Figueira Ana Carolina , Trivella Daniela
Published: July 2022

The nucleocapsid (N) protein plays critical roles in coronavirus genome transcription and packaging, representing a key target for the development of novel antivirals, and for which structural information on ligand binding is scarce. We used a novel fluorescence polarization assay to identify small molecules that disrupt the binding of the N protein to a target RNA derived from the SARS-CoV-2 genome packaging signal. Several phenolic compounds, including L-chicoric acid (CA), were identified as high-affinity N-protein ligands. The binding of CA to the N protein was confirmed by isothermal titration calorimetry, 1H-STD NMR, and by the crystal structure of CA bound to the N protein C-terminal domain (CTD), further revealing a new modulatory site in the SARS-CoV-2 N protein. Moreover, CA reduced SARS-CoV-2 replication in cell cultures. These data thus open venues for the development of new antivirals targeting the N protein, an essential and yet underexplored coronavirus target.
Assessment of aquifer vulnerability in the tectonically deformed sedimentary rocks in Abakaliki area, southeastern Nigeria, using geophysical and geological data
Authors: Obasi Ikenna A. , II Jamilu B. Ahmed , Aigbadon Godwin O. , Anakwuba Emmanuel K. , Akudo Ernest O. , Onwa Nneka M.
Published: July 2022

A combination of the IEC, AVI, and GOD pollution indices were used to assess the vulnerability of the fractured rock aquifer in the Abakaliki area to pollution from anthropogenic sources. The topsoil ranges from laterite to silt to silty-clay, according to the results of the vertical electrical sounding (VES). The geoelectric sections have varying numbers of layers (1–6 layers) with their resistivity ranges as 29.16–3,949.30 Ω, 4.98–1,630.70 Ωm, 0.35–3,767.20 Ωm,1.76–7926.30 Ωm, and 1.11–3,060.20 Ωm respectively. These have been grouped into four main lithologic units namely the topsoil, indurated/baked shale, fractured shale/sandstone (the aquiferous unit), and the consolidated sandstone units. The thickness of the vadose zone is generally thin (< 18 m), while their hydraulic conductivity is relatively high (0.20–16.11 m/day) for argillaceous rocks. The IEC values (0.003–0.850 S) suggest a weak to fair protective capacity for the vadose zone. The result of the HR (1.01–55.49) indicates that the underlying aquifer is highly to extremely vulnerable, and the GOD values (> 0.7) agree that they are extremely vulnerable.
In situ facile green synthesis of Ag-ZnO nanocomposites using Tetradenia riperia leaf extract and its antimicrobial efficacy on water disinfection
Authors: Mtavangu Stanslaus G. , Machunda Revocatus L. , Bruggen Bart van der , Njau Karoli N.
Published: July 2022

In this work, Ag-ZnO nanocomposites were prepared by a green synthesis route using aqueous leaf extract of Tetradenia riperia and investigated for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. To optimize the synthesis of the Ag-ZnO, the effects of precursor concentrations, pH, and temperatures were studied. The Ag-ZnO nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, ATR-FTIR, FESEM, and TEM. Results show that the concentration of 8% Ag, the temperature of 80 oC, and a pH of 7–8 were optimal for the synthesis of Ag-ZnO nanocomposites. The XRD analysis showed the decrease in particle size of Ag-ZnO from 23.6 to 14.8 nm with an increase in Ag concentrations, which was further supported by FESEM analysis. TEM image of 8% Ag provides more information on the coexistence of Ag on ZnO where an average particle size of 14.8 nm was determined. The ATR-FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of phenolic compounds, which work as reducing and stabilizing agents. The antimicrobial activity results show that Ag-ZnO nanocomposite demonstrated a higher antimicrobial potency on Escherichia coli than on Staphylococcus aureus. Therefore, Tetradenia riperia leaf extract is a viable route for the synthesis of Ag-ZnO nanocomposites to be used for various applications, including water disinfection.
Electrical impedance tomography for titration of positive end-expiratory pressure in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Liu Xuesong , Liu Xiao , Meng Jue , Liu Dongdong , Huang Yongbo , Sang Ling , Xu Yonghao , Xu Zhiheng , He Weiqun , Chen Sibei , Zhang Rong , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Yimin
Published: July 2022

Background
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of most common comorbidities in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). There are few specific studies on the appropriate ventilation strategy for patients with ARDS comorbid with COPD, especially regarding on positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) titration.
Methods
To compare the respiratory mechanics in mechanical ventilated ARDS patients with or without COPD and to determine whether titration of PEEP based on electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is superior to the ARDSnet protocol. This is a single center, perspective, repeated measure study. ARDS Patients requiring mechanical ventilation who were admitted to the intensive care unit between August 2017 and December 2020. ARDS patients were divided according to whether they had COPD into a COPD group and a non-COPD group. Respiratory mechanics, gas exchange, and hemodynamics during ventilation were compared between the groups according to whether the PEEP level was titrated by EIT or the ARDSnet protocol.
Results
A total of Twenty-seven ARDS patients including 14 comorbid with and 13 without COPD met the study eligibility criteria was recruited. The PEEP levels titrated by EIT and the ARDSnet protocol was lower in the COPD group than in the non-COPD group (6.93 ± 1.69 cm H2O vs 12.15 ± 2.40 cm H2O, P < 0.001 and 10.43 ± 1.20 cm H2O vs 14.0 ± 3.0 cmH2O, P < 0.001, respectively). In the COPD group, the PEEP level titrated by EIT was lower than that titrated by the ARDSnet protocol (6.93 ± 1.69 cm H2O vs 10.43 ± 1.20 cm H2O, P < 0.001), as was the global inhomogeneity (GI) index (0.397 ± 0.040 vs 0.446 ± 0.052, P = 0.001), plateau airway pressure (16.50 ± 4.35 cm H2O vs 20.93 ± 5.37 cm H2O, P = 0.024), dead space ventilation ratio (48.29 ± 6.78% vs 55.14 ± 8.85%, P = 0.029), ventilation ratio (1.63 ± 0.33 vs 1.87 ± 0.33, P = 0.046), and mechanical power (13.92 ± 2.18 J/min vs 15.87 ± 2.53 J/min, P = 0.038). The cardiac index was higher when PEEP was treated by EIT than when it was titrated by the ARDSnet protocol (3.41 ± 0.50 L/min/m² vs 3.02 ± 0.43 L/min/m², P = 0.034), as was oxygen delivery (466.40 ± 71.08 mL/min/m² vs 411.10 ± 69.71 mL/min/m², P = 0.001).
Conclusion
Titrated PEEP levels were lower in patients with ARDS with COPD than in ARDS patients without COPD. In ARDS patient comorbid with COPD, application of PEEP titrated by EIT were lower than those titrated by the ARDSnet protocol, which contributed to improvements in the ventilation ratio, mechanical energy, cardiac index, and oxygen delivery with less of an adverse impact on hemodynamics.
Cyclodextrin inclusion complex of a multi-component natural product by hot-melt extrusion
Authors: Nonato Rhayssa de Oliveira , Krawczk-Santos Anna Paula , Cardoso Gleidson , Kogawa Ana Carolina , Ricommini Karina , Lima Adley Antonini Neves , Heimfarth Luana , Quintans-Júnior Lucindo José , Cunha-Filho Marcilio , Taveira Stephania Fleury , Marreto Ricardo Neves
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to investigate whether hot-melt extrusion (HME) processing can promote molecular encapsulation of a multi-component natural product composed of volatile and pungent hydrophobic substances (ginger oleoresin, OR) with cyclodextrins. 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol, the biomarkers of ginger OR, were quantified by HPLC. Phase-solubility studies were performed using β-cyclodextrin (βCD) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) for ginger OR complexation. Solid complexes were then prepared by thermal (HME) and solvent (slurry, SL)-based methods. Morphology, thermal behavior, solubility, in vitro dissolution, and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity were evaluated. HPβCD gave rise to AL-type complexes with ginger OR, whereas βCD led to materials with limited solubility. Ginger OR was complexed with HPβCD by HME without significant change in gingerol and shogaol content. Additionally, TGA suggested higher volatile retention in HME complexes than SL ones. Shogaol and gingerol solubility and dissolution significantly increased from SL and HME complexes compared with ginger OR. In turn, 1: 2 OR/HPβCD HME complex showed higher 6-shogaol solubility than SL, associated with a gradual release. The carrageenan-induced pleurisy test showed that the anti-inflammatory activity of ginger OR was maintained after complexation with HPβCD. The complexes significantly decrease the levels of IL-1β and inhibit cell migration. HME complex showed performance equivalent to the positive control and superior to the SL material. Taken together, these results indicate that HME can be useful for promoting the molecular encapsulation of complex natural products that contain volatile and thermolabile substances. HME complexes showed better in vivo and in vitro performance than complexes prepared using the solvent-based method.
Measured Spin-Orbit Alignment of Ultra-Short Period Super-Earth 55 Cancri e
Authors: Zhao Lily , Kunovac Vedad , Brewer John , Llama Joe , Millholland Sarah , Hedges Christina , Szymkowiak Andrew , Roettenbacher Rachael , Cabot Samuel , Weiss Sam , Fischer Debra
Published: July 2022

We present two transits of 55 Cancri e radial velocities (RVs) observed with the Extreme Precision Spectrograph (EXPRES). Using the classical Rossiter-McLaughlin (RM) method, we measure 55 Cnc e's sky-projected stellar spin-orbit alignment (i.e., the projected angle between the planet's orbital axis and its host star's spin axis) to be λ=10.1(+17.4 -18.6)° with an unprojected angle of ψ=22.7(+14.4 -12.4)°. The best-fit RM model to the EXPRES data has a radial velocity semi-amplitude of just 0.41 (+0.09 -0.10) m s-1; this is the smallest amplitude classical RM measurement to date. A planet's orbital alignment places important constraints on how the planet formed and consequently evolved. The dominant formation pathway of ultra-short period planets (USPs; planets with periods less than one day), like 55 Cnc e, remains an open question. The low stellar obliquity of 55 Cnc e favors dynamically gentle migration theories for USPs, namely tidal dissipation through low-eccentricity planet-planet interactions and/or planetary obliquity tides.
Mechanical properties of ceramic filled aluminum metal matrix composites: An Experimental and Computational analysis
Authors: Shekhawat Deepika , Agarwal Pankaj , Singh Amit , Singh Tej , Patnaik Amar
Published: July 2022

With each passing year, new research is being carried out to discover materials with enhanced load-bearing capacity for prostheses and medical equipment. This study deals with the fabrication and mechanical testing of nano-zirconium oxide (n-ZrO2; 0–15 wt.%; at steps of 5%) reinforced Al 6061 prepared via a stir casting process. The effect of n-ZrO2 loading on physical and mechanical properties along with the detailed characterization has been systematically investigated. The density (2.6491–2.6812 g/cc), hardness (85–103 HV), tensile strength (147–227 MPa), tensile modulus (75–99 GPa), flexural strength (312–450 MPa), and impact strength (23–45 J) improved by increasing the wt.% of n-ZrO2 reinforcement particles. Furthermore, representative quantity element-based computational homogenization modeling was used to evaluate physical and mechanical properties. It was found to be in good agreement with the experimental results within a deviation of ~ 5%. The implication of these findings shows that 5 wt.% nano-ZrO2 reinforced Al 6061 composites (Al-ZC1) yielded better performance than pure Al 6061 alloy. This novel and comprehensive similarity throughout the examined properties for intricate microstructures perhaps be beneficial for designing optimum composite structures for prosthetic and orthotic applications.
Altered microstructural pattern of Cortex and Basal Forebrain Cholinergic System in Wilson' s disease: An Automated Fiber Quantification Tractography Study
Authors: Wu Yutong , Hu Sheng , Kan Hongxing , Wang Yi , Dong Ting , Wu Hongli , Wang Anqin , Li Chuanfu
Published: July 2022

Basal forebrain (BF) cholinergic projection neurons elaborate a highly extensive input to the cortex. Failure of basal forebrain cholinergic circuits are responsible for the cognitive impairment associated with Wilson’s disease (WD), but whether and how the microstructural changes in fiber projections between the BF and cerebral cortex influence prospective memory (PM) remains poorly understood. We employed diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data from 21 neurological WD individuals and 26 healthy controls (HC). The experiment reconstructed probabilistic streamline tractography of 18 white matter tracts that correlate with BF cholinergic projections using an Automated fiber quantification (AFQ) toolkit. Tract properties (FA, MD, RD, and AD) were computed for 100 points along each tract for each participant, and their differences between the groups were examined. Subsequently, a Pearson correlation analysis was performed on the patient group to assess the relationship between microstructural alterations and clinical performance. Additional investigations used a tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) approach to identify regions with altered white matter structure between groups to validate the results of the AFQ study. Compared with HC, the highest non-overlapping DTI-related differences were detected in the anterior thalamic radiation (ATR), corticospinal tract (CST), corpus callosum, association fibers, and limbic system fibers. Additionally, clinical parameters of the patient group were highly correlated with white matter microstructure changes in the cingulum cingulate and inferior longitudinal fasciculus. Our study highlights that the performance of projections between cholinergic input and output areas-the cerebral cortex and BF-may serve as neural biomarkers of PM and prognosis.
Colon targeted layer-by-layer self-assembled film: pharmacokinetic analysis of model drugs after oral administration
Authors: Janardhanam Leela Sai Lokesh , Deokar Ashwini Suresh , Bollareddy Srivarsha Reddy , Venuganti Venkata Vamsi Krishna
Published: July 2022

The aim of the study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic parameters of 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and moxifloxacin (MF) after oral administration using layer-by-layer assembled film in enteric coated capsule. The LbL film was prepared by sequential layering of chitosan and sodium alginate polyelectrolytes containing either 5FU or MF. The films were characterized for physical characteristics, drug loading and release behaviour. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed in the rat model for three different drug concentrations after oral administration and compared with intravenous administration. The results showed that the thickness of 10 bilayerd film was 147 ± 11.66 and 212.3 ± 7.19 µm after 5FU and MF loading, respectively. The amount of 5FU and MF loaded was found to be 1.93 ± 0.48 and 4.64 ± 0.33 mg/cm2, respectively. The DSC and PXRD results showed crystalline nature of 5FU and MF after entrapment in LbL film. The LbL film with backing layer provided directional release of 5FU and MF, where 63.81 ± 4.52% and 101.38 ± 5.08%, respectively was released in 24 h. 5FU showed non-linear pharmacokinetics compared with linear pharmacokinetics showed by MF after oral administration. There is a dose dependent increase in Cmax after oral administration of 5FU and MF LbL film. The Tmax was found to be 720 and 840 mins for 5FU and MF after oral administration. The mean residence time and AUC0-t at 45 mg/kg were 871.4 ± 6.45 min and 198.6 ± 5.03 x 103 min. ng/mL and 1267 ± 142.4 min and 1590 ± 55.60 103 min. ng/mL for 5FU and MF, respectively. Biodistribution studies showed significantly (p<0.01) greater disposition of 5FU within colon tissue after administration using oral LbL film. Taken together, colon targeted LbL film can be developed for oral administration of drugs for local and systemic applications.
Curvilinear Regression Analysis of Benzenoid Hydrocarbons and Computation of Some Reduced Reverse Degree Based Topological Indices for Hyaluronic Acid - Paclitaxel Conjugates
Authors: Ravi Vignesh , Desikan Kalyani
Published: July 2022

Graph theoretical molecular descriptors alias topological indices are a convenient means for expressing in numerical form the chemical structure encoded in a molecular graph. The structure descriptors derived from molecular graphs are widely used in Quantitative Structure-Property Relationship (QSPR) and Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR) studies. The reason for introducing new indices is to obtain predictions of target properties of considered molecules that are better than the predictions obtained using already known indices. In this paper, we apply the reduced reverse degree based indices introduced in 2021 by Vignesh et al. In the QSPR analysis, we first compute the reduced reverse degree based indices for a family of benzenoid hydrocarbon molecules and then we obtain the correlation with the Physico-chemical properties of the considered molecules. We show that all the properties taken into consideration for the benzenoid hydrocarbons can be very effectively predicted by the reduced reverse degree based indices. Further, we compute the defined reduced reverse degree based topological indices for Hyaluronic Acid-Paclitaxel Conjugates (HAP) n , n ≥ 1.
Embolization of the parenchymal tract after percutaneous portal vein catheterization: a retrospective comparison of outcomes with different techniques in two centers.
Authors: Marra Paolo , Carbone Francesco Saverio , Augello Luigi , Dulcetta Ludovico , Muglia Riccardo , Bonaffini Pietro Andrea , Corte Angelo Della , Steidler Stephanie , Gusmini Simone , Guazzarotti Giorgia , Palumbo Diego , Venturini Massimo , De Cobelli Francesco , Sironi Sandro
Published: July 2022

Background: Embolization of the parenchymal tract is a key step after any other transhepatic or transplenic percutaneous portal vein catheterization, since eventual venous bleeding is difficult to control and may require surgical management. Different techniques have been proposed to perform tract embolization. The aim of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of different techniques of hemostasis of the parenchymal tract.Materials and Methods: All the interventional procedures with percutaneous transhepatic or transplenic access to the portal vein (excluding ipsilateral portal vein embolization) from January 2010 to July 2020, in two tertiary hospitals, were retrospectively analyzed. The following data were evaluated: access site, the technique of embolization, technical success in terms of immediate thrombosis of the tract, safety and clinical efficacy in terms of the absence of hemorrhagic and thrombotic complications.Results: One-hundred-sixty-one patients underwent 220 percutaneous transhepatic or transplenic portal vein catheterization procedures. The main indications were pancreatic islet transplantation, portal anastomotic stenosis after liver transplantation, and portal vein thrombosis recanalization. As embolic materials gelfoam was used in 105 cases, metallic micro-coils in 54 cases, and cyanoacrylic glue in 44 cases; in 17 cases the parenchymal tract was not embolized. Technical success was 98% without significant difference among groups (p-value = 0.22). Eighteen post-procedural abdominal bleedings occurred, all grade 3 and were managed conservatively; difference among groups was not significant (p-value = 0.25). We detected 12 intrahepatic portal branch thromboses not related to the embolization technique; only one case of non-target embolization was documented after liver tract embolization with glue, without clinical consequences.Conclusion: Embolization of the parenchymal tract after percutaneous portal vein catheterization is technically safe and effective. No significant differences were found between coils, glue, and gelfoam in effectiveness and complications rate. Level of Evidence: Level 3, Cohort study.
Association between epidemiologic case definition categories and adverse clinical outcome in patients with Clostridiodes difficile infection in San Francisco County, California: a five-year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Siraw Bekure B. , Reingold Arthur L. , Meyahnwi Didien
Published: July 2022

Background - Understanding the predictors of adverse clinical outcomes following incident Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) can help clinicians identify which patients are at risk of complications and help prioritize the provision of their care. In this study, we assessed the associations between epidemiologic case definition categories and adverse clinical outcomes in patients with CDI in San Francisco County, California.Methods - We conducted a retrospective cohort study using CDI surveillance data (n=3274) from the California Emerging Infections Program for the time period 2016 to 2020. After independent associations were established, two multivariable logistic and log-binomial regression models were constructed for the final statistical analysis. Result - The mean cumulative incidence of CDI cases was 78.8 cases per 100,000 population. The overall recurrence rate and the 30-day all-cause mortality rate were 11.1% and 4.5% respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, compared to the community associated CDI cases, healthcare facility onset (AOR = 3.1; 95% CI [1.3 - 7]) and community-onset – healthcare facility associated (AOR = 2.4; 95% CI [1.4 – 4.3]) CDI cases were found to have higher odds of all-cause 30-day mortality. Community onset – healthcare facility-associated CDI case definition category was found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of recurrence of CDI (ARR = 1.7; 95% CI [1.2 – 2.4]). Conclusion - Although the incidence of community-associated CDI cases has been rising, the odds of all-cause 30-day mortality and the risk of recurrent CDI associated with these infections are lower than healthcare facility onset and community-onset healthcare facility-associated CDI cases.
Brain Single Cell Transcriptomic Profiles in Episodic Memory Phenotypes Associated with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Busch Robyn , Yehia Lamis , Hu Bo , Goldman Melissa , Hermann Bruce , Najm Imad , McCarroll Steven , Eng Charis
Published: July 2022

Memory dysfunction is prevalent in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), but little is known about the underlying molecular etiologies. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing technology was used to examine differences in cellular heterogeneity among left (language-dominant) temporal neocortical tissues from patients with TLE with (n = 4) or without (n = 2) impairment in verbal episodic memory. We observed marked expression heterogeneity between memory phenotypes and identified thousands of differentially expressed transcripts across all brain cell types. The most notable differences were observed in glutamatergic (excitatory) and GABAergic (inhibitory) neurons with an overrepresentation of genes associated with long-term potentiation, long-term depression, and MAPK signaling, processes known to be essential for episodic memory formation.
A Long-term Resilient Modulus Rate Dependent Model for Freezing–Thawing Coarse-Fine Mixtures Geomaterials
Authors: Wang Ke , Tang Liang , Tian Shuang , Ling XianZhang , Ye Yangsheng , Cai Degou , Liu Min
Published: July 2022

The cyclic loading frequency (fcyc) effects on the resilient modulus (Mr) of freezing–thawing coarse–fine mixtures geomaterials (FTCFG) have always been a research hotspot. A series of long–term cyclic triaxial tests were conducted on FTCFG having different fines content (FC) under different number of freeze–thaw cycles (NFT) to investigate the effect of fcyc and deviator stress amplitude (qcyc) on the Mr of FTCFG. The freezing–thawing cyclic was found to improve the Mr of FTCFG. Additionally, Mr of FTCFG shown an obviously rate–dependent characteristics. Then three kinetic effects (rate effect, piston effect, and fatigue effect) are discussed in systemically which are related to qcyc, fcyc and moisture holding capacity (wh). Finally, a rate dependent model of long–term resilient modulus was developed to predict FTCFG materials’ resilient moduli as a function of qcyc, fcyc and wh. The comparisons between the calculation and experimental results reveal that the present model describes the Mr of FTCFG well.
Lineage-specific protein repeat expansions and contractions reveal malleable regions of immune genes
Authors: Teekas Lokdeep , Sharma Sandhya , Vijay Nagarjun
Published: July 2022

Functional diversification, a higher evolutionary rate, and intense positive selection help a limited number of immune genes interact with many continuously evolving pathogens. Repeats in protein-coding regions are a well-known source of rapid functional diversification, adaptive variation, and evolutionary novelty. Repeats play a crucial role in biochemical functions like functional diversification of transcription regulation, protein kinases, cell adhesion, signaling pathways, morphogenesis, DNA repair, recombination, and RNA processing. Repeat length variation can change the associated protein's interaction, efficacy, and overall protein network. Repeats have an intrinsic unstable nature and can potentially evolve rapidly and expedite the acquisition of complex phenotypic traits and functions. Because of their ability to generate rapid, adaptive variations over short evolutionary distances, repeats are considered "tuning knobs." Repeat length variation in specific genes, like RUNX2 and ALX4, is associated with morphological and physiological changes across vertebrates. Here we study repeat length variation as a potent source of species-specific immune diversification across several clades of tetrapods. Moreover, we provide a clade-wise comprehensive list of immune genes with repeat types for future studies of morphological/evolutionary changes within species groups. We observe significant repeat length variation of FASLG in Rodentia and C1QC in Primates' contrasting species groups.
Male Partners Involvement in Human Immune Deficiency Virus Testing and Counseling in Bichena town: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gessesse Nigusu Ayalew , Gela Getahun Belay , Aweke Amlaku Mulat , Balcha Wondu Feyisa
Published: July 2022

Objective
Transmission of HIV from mother to child remains a significant problem in developing countries. Male partner involvement in HIV testing and counseling is a major entry point for the PMTCT. This study aimed to assess male partner involvement in HIV testing and counseling. A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from March 1–15/2019 among 406 male partners. The data were analyzed using the SPSS 23.0 version. Logistic regression analyses were employed to estimate the crude and adjusted odds ratio with a confidence interval of 95% and a P-value of < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results
In this study, 41.4% [95% CI: 36.2–46.1%] of male partner was involved in HIV testing and counseling. In multivariable analysis male partners who are found in the age group of 20–29 years, secondary, and diploma and above educational level, good knowledge of the services provided in the ANC visits, male partners whose wife had ≥ 4 ANC visits, knowledge of MTCT and PMTCT, entered the ANC room together with his wife, discussed maternal health issue with health care providers, and traveled < 15 minutes to reach a nearby health facility were associated with male partner involvement in HIV testing and counseling.
Evaluating possible changes in air temperature and precipitation pattern in Mozambique by comparing present and future RegCM4 simulation
Authors: Sumila Telmo Cosme António , E.T Simone , DURIGON ANGELICA
Published: July 2022

Unlike the global and regional assessment, the spatial-temporal variability of air temperature and precipitation, caused by climate change, must be more useful when the assessment is made at sub-regional to local scale. Thus, this study aims to assess the possible changes in pattern of air temperature and precipitation for late 21st century relative to present climate over Mozambique. For this purpose the downscaling to finer horizontal grid resolution of 50 km was run for present and under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs), moderate RCP4.5 and strong RCP8.4, through a regional climate model RegCM4.0 driven by HadGEM2 global model. The climate pattern considered were analyzed for two time slices, baseline (1971–2000) and future (2070 − 2099) range within Mozambique borders. Over this study domain, the highest amounts of precipitation and the highest air temperatures are observed during summer season. However, the central region is quite warmer and rainier than the northern and southernmost regions. The regional model RegCM4.0 demonstrate agreement relative to observed weather stations and interpolated dataset from Climate Research Unit. The strong performance of RegCM4.0 is revealed by the more realistic local spatio-temporal climate features, tied to topography and geographical location of the study domain. The future increases in mean annual air temperature is well simulated by the model but, the spatial distribution and magnitude differ between the RCPs and over each of the three regions throughout the country. The sharp hottest response in the end of the century occurs in summer and spring seasons under RCP8.5, spatially over the central and northern region of the study domain, with some hot-spot in southern region. On the other hand, there is a predominance drier response in the annual mean precipitation but, during the summer season is observed a meridional dipolarization pattern, with wettest response over southernmost and drier response in northern and central regions of Mozambique.
Chemical and microbial composition of long-time steel rust layers in the South China Sea with a novel highly corrosive Desulfovibrio strain isolated from it
Authors: Zhai Xiaofan , Dong Xucheng , Zhang Yimeng , Yang Jing , Guan Fang , Duan Jizhou , Sun Jiawen , Zhang Ruiyong , Hou Baorong
Published: July 2022

Although it is well acknowledged that microbes played a significant role in the marine corrosion, few studies have systematically studied on the relationship between microorganisms and corrosion products under long-term immersion. In this work, the corrosion characteristics of the rust layer formed on carbon steel immersed in the South China sea after 5.5 years were investigated by various surface analysis and microbial community techniques. Magnetite (Fe3O4), iron sulfide and green rust were identified in the inner rust layer. The middle rust layer was dominated by maghemite (γ-Fe2O3), while some Fe3O4 and mackinamite were also detected. The outer rust layer contained several Fe(Ⅲ)-oxyhydroxides, along with a large number of fouling organisms attached. In all rust layers, anaerobic SRB was the dominant bacteria, and might play a key role during the formation of corrosion products. One SRB strain (Desulfovibrio bizertensis SY-1) with highly corrosivity (13.561 mg/cm2) was isolated from these rust layers, and the physiological and metabolic characteristics were also studied. These results helped expand the membership of corrosive SRB and establish better understanding of marine MIC.
Determining the Artificial Influence Factors for Quality Assessment of Personal Radiation Dosimetry Services
Authors: Feng Chen-Ju , Huang Yi-Hui , Wu Chin-Hui , Chu Chien-Hau , Lien Ke-Yu , Wang Yu-Chieh , Hsu Shih-Ming
Published: July 2022

This study was to determine the artificial factors considered for the measurement accuracy of personal dosimeter in dosimetry services under current performance test criteria. The investigation included management information questionnaire, on-site visit and blind test. The blind test with random selected personal badge was used in inter-comparison of eight dosimetry services, and the test results followed ANSI/HPS N13.11 criteria. This study also analyzed the measurement deviations if they felt in the criteria of ICRP 75 or not. One-way ANOVA tests were used to analyze the significant difference of the measurement deviations in different dosimetry services, irradiation categories, and years of use. Simple linear-regression test was performed for the significance of the prediction model between measurement deviations (category I, category II deep, and category II shallow) and readout frequencies. All visited dosimetry services followed the proper statue of basic management and passed the performance check of the tolerance level. There had significant differences of measurement deviation in different dosimetry services and irradiation categories but no significant difference in years of use. There was no significance in the linear-regression model between measurement deviation and badge readout frequencies. Based on the regular calibration of the personal dosimeter, the deviation of the measured value is mainly affected by different dosimetry services and irradiation categories; and there shows no significant influence by years of use and readout frequency.
Numerical Simulation of Billet Height-diameter Ratio on Magnesium Alloy Automobile Wheel Formed by Single-step Back Extrusion
Authors: Jiang Yanchao , Ren Liang , Le Qichi , Liao Qiyu , Zhu Yatong , Zhou Weiyang , Zhao Tao
Published: July 2022

Magnesium alloy wheels are widely concerned for their satisfactory energy saving and emission reduction effects and increased driving comfort. However, the current single-step back extrusion (BE) forming process of magnesium alloy wheels uses a relatively small billet height-diameter ratio (HDR), which results in coarse grains and uneven grain size distribution of the spokes, seriously affecting the service performance of the wheel. A numerical model of the magnesium alloy wheel was constructed based on the actual single-step BE process of the magnesium alloy wheel in this study, and the effect of billet HDR on the physical field and dynamic recrystallization (DRX) grain size during the forming process of magnesium alloy wheel was explored through numerical simulation. Finding reveals that as the HDR of the billet increases, the overall effective strain of the wheel increases, the overall DRX volume fraction increases, and the grains are refined. When the HDR of the billet is greater than 1, the overall grain size distribution of the wheel tends to be stable. Compared with the traditional small HDR, when the billet HDR is greater than 1, the grain size at the spokes is reduced from the original 60 ~ 120µm to 30µm. During the forming process of the wheel, the upper rim is prone to cracking. With the increase of the HDR of the billet, the damage value at the upper rim of the wheel increases, that is, the cracking tendency at the upper rim increases. Simultaneously, the cracking tendency of the outer side of the rim increases with the HDR of the billet. Considering it comprehensively within the scope of this study, it is recommended to set the HDR of the wheel billet between 0.7 and 1.
Fetal umbilical artery thrombosis: prenatal diagnosis, treatment and follow-up
Authors: Wu Xiafang , Wei Chenchen , Chen Ruifeng , Yang Linxian , Huang Weifei , Huang Liang , Yan XinXin , Deng Xuedong , Gou Zhongshan
Published: July 2022

Background: To analyze the ultrasonic imaging and clinical characteristics of fetuses with umbilical artery thrombosis (UAT), explore potential causes and construct a prognostic-predicting model, thereby to guide clinical practice.Methods: We undertook a retrospective cohort study of fetal UAT in two academic tertiary referral care centers from 2014 to 2020. At follow-up visit, participants were interviewed with basic information, and the conditions of clinical treatment and delivery, diagnosis and confirmation were obtained through the medical records. Probable causes of thrombosis were explored by the comparative analysis of the UAT group to the control group and further regression analysis. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the risk factors of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate the diagnostic value of the prognostic-predicting model.Results: There were 30 fetuses with UAT incorporated in this study. Mostly, UAT occurred in the third trimester of pregnancy. There was an obvious predominance of right UAT. Abnormal pregnancy history (53.3%) was the most common comorbidity, followed by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM, 20.0%). Moreover, GDM and umbilical cord (UC) abnormalities were found to be independent risk factors for the development of UAT. After comprehensive decision-making, over two-thirds of the UAT patients chose urgent treatment while less than one-third chose expectant management. Surprisingly, there were no significant differences found in fetal outcomes between the UAT and control groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that gestational age (GA) and UC abnormalities were independent risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes (OR 0.781, p = 0.042; OR 16.779, p = 0.023; respectively). Based on this, we constructed a comprehensive prognostic prediction model. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.877 (95%CI 0.698-0.970; p < 0.001), which suggested that the combination of GA and UC abnormalities was a better predictor for fetal outcomes.Conclusion: In summary, maternal GDM and fetal UC abnormalities were independent risk factors affecting UAT. UAT had been more observed on the right side. Moreover, poor clinical outcomes for UAT fetuses were mainly ascribed to GA and the condition of UC, which should be comprehensively evaluated to choose appropriate treatment.
Age and baseline creatinine as risk factors for methotrexate nephrotoxicity in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in resource-limited countries
Authors: Anguiano-Canchola Itzel Marcela , Leon-Espitia José Antonio , Ruiz-Jaramillo Ma. de la Cruz
Published: July 2022

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: Fifty 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, dermatitis, and febrile neutropenia were more frequent in the group with kidney damage (p < 0.001). A cut-off value for age of 8 years (AUC of 64%) had a higher frequency of nephrotoxicity. Baseline creatinine value higher than 0.44 mg/dL was a risk factor for developing kidney damage (OR 4.1). Conclusions: The incidence of MTX nephrotoxicity in children with ALL was 5.8%, slightly higher than that reported by other authors. The risk was greater for children older than 8 years and baseline creatinine higher than 0.44 mg/dL.
Individual differences in a computational model of reading: the influence of oral vocabulary knowledge
Authors: Chang Ya-Ning
Published: July 2022

Studies have demonstrated systematic individual differences in the degree of semantic reliance (SR) when reading aloud exception words in adult skilled readers. However, the origins of individual differences in reading remain unclear. Using a connectionist model of reading, this study investigated whether oral vocabulary knowledge may affect the degree of SR as a potential source of individual differences in reading. Variety in oral vocabulary knowledge was simulated by training the model to learn the mappings between spoken and meaning word forms with different vocabulary sizes and quantities of exposure to these vocabularies. The model’s SR in the reading aloud task was computed. The result demonstrated that the model with varying amounts of oral exposure and vocabulary sizes had different levels of SR. Critically, the SR was able to predict the performance of the model performance on reading aloud and nonword reading, which assimilated behavioural reading patterns. Further analysis revealed that the SR was largely associated with the interaction between oral vocabulary exposure and oral vocabulary size. When the amount of exposure was limited, the SR significantly increased with vocabulary sizes but decreased then with vocabulary sizes. Overall, the simulation results provide the first computational evidence of the direct link between oral vocabulary knowledge and the degree of SR as a source of individual differences in reading.
A comparison between marginal likelihood and data augmented MCMC algorithms for Gaussian hidden Markov models
Authors: Tancini Daniele , Bartolucci Francesco , Pandolfi Silvia
Published: July 2022

We provide a comparison between marginal likelihood and data augmented Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms for Bayesian estimation of hidden Markov models. In particular, we focus on hidden Markov models based on a multivariate Gaussian distribution for the response variables. We evaluate the performance of both methods on the basis of a simulation study and an empirical application, where we compare these approaches in terms of standard measures of estimation and time efficiency. The results show that the augmented algorithm seems to be preferable, obtaining optimal convergence properties and producing large values of the effective sample size. Instead of using variable dimensional techniques for model selection, we also suggest model selection based on the so-called parallel sampling.
Prevalence and Correlates of Cognitive Impairment in schizophrenia: A cross-sectional study from Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Goonathilake Praveen , Ediriweera Dileepa , Ruban Rumi , Isuru Amila
Published: July 2022

Introductions: Cognitive impairment is a core feature of schizophrenia. This study assessed the prevalence of cognitive impairment, the degree of impairment in individual cognitive domains and sociodemographic and clinical correlates among patients with schizophrenia in southern Sri Lankan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at the psychiatry outpatient clinics of Teaching Hospital, Karapitiya, Sri Lanka. Their cognitive functions were assessed using the culturally validated Sinhala version of Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination – III (ACE-III-S). ACE-III-S score below 85.5 was considered as significant cognitive impairment. Linear and multiple regression analyses were used to assess the factors associated with cognitive impairment. A P value of 0.05 is considered significant. Results: One hundred forty patients with schizophrenia were assessed. Of this, 125 patients had significant cognitive impairment with a prevalence of 89.3% (95% CI:84.1-94.5). Impairment in each cognitive domain was as follows: 60% in attention, 65.7% in memory, 55% in fluency, 61.4% in language, and 63.6% in visuospatial skills. Impairment was not different between cognitive domains. A shorter duration of formal education (P = <0.001), longer duration of illness (P = <0.001) and higher dose of antipsychotics (P = 0.034) were independently associated with cognitive impairment. Conclusions: Nine out of ten patients with schizophrenia experienced significant cognitive impairment. Patients showed more than 50% impairment in all the cognitive domains. The cognitive domains did not show disproportionate impairment. This study highlights the importance of introducing routine cognitive assessment protocols and frequent reviews of antipsychotic medications.