bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep learning-based estimation of rice yield using RGB image
Authors: Tanaka Yu , Watanabe Tomoya , Katsura Keisuke , Tsujimoto Yasuhiro , Takai Toshiyuki , Tanaka Takashi , Kawamura Kensuke , Saito Hiroki , Homma Koki , Mairoua Salifou , Ahouanton Kokou , Ibrahim Ali , Senthilkumar Kalimuthu , Semwal Vimal , Matute Eduardo , Corredor Edgar , El-Namaky Raafat , Manigbas Norvie , Quilang Eduardo , Iwahashi Yu , Nakajima Kota , Takeuchi Eisuke , Saito Kazuki
Published: October 2021

Crop productivity is poorly assessed globally. Here, we provide a deep learning-based approach for estimating rice yield using RGB images. During ripening stage and at harvest, over 22,000 digital images were captured vertically downwards over the rice canopy from a distance of 0.8 to 0.9 m, and rice yields were obtained in the corresponding area ranging from 0.1 and 16.1 t ha−1. A convolutional neural network (CNN) applied to these data at harvest predicted 70% variation in rice yield with a relative root mean square error (rRMSE) of 0.22. Images obtained during the ripening stage can also be used to forecast the final rice yield. Our work suggests that this low-cost, hands-on, and rapid approach can provide a breakthrough solution to assess the impact of productivity-enhancing interventions and identify fields where these are needed to sustainably increase crop production.
Missing two key parameters in the pooled testing strategy
Authors: Xia Xuhua
Published: October 2021

The pooled testing strategy [1] misses two key parameters, the infection prevalence p and its variance mentioned many times in the paper as the key determinants of any pooled testing strategy. For illustrating their methods, the authors used p from other studies that employed individual tests. It turned that that no statistical estimators for p and its variance have ever been derived for testing data of pooled samples since the first formulation of testing strategies based on pooled sampled in 1943 [2]. Here I derive the maximum likelihood estimators for p and its variance based on tests of pooled samples. This should result in significant saving in time, resource, and costs.
Rethinking a new transition finance paradigm for addressing the climate crisis in Africa
Authors: Zisuh Michael
Published: October 2021

This policy brief uncovers the investment-ready instruments and policy packages that can unlock the energy transition in Sub-Saharan Africa. These are summarised around three key messages. First, transition finance vehicles in Africa should aim to transform ‘brown’ (polluting) into ‘green’ (renewable) industries. Second, key instruments include green bonds for specific environmental projects, grants/guaranties to support private investments that target access to energy for the poor, and patient capital investments into growth sectors focused on environmental, social, and governance targets. Third, national energy policy should connect innovative market-based solutions (e.g., mini grids) to centralized (e.g., national grid) systems to strengthen governance.
Process Planning of the Automatic Polishing of the Curved Surface Using a Five-axis Machining Tool
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ding Chen , Fan Cheng , Wang Qian , Wang Kejun
Published: October 2021

Curved surface parts are widely used in aerospace industry, automotive industry and other fields due to their excellent features in aerodynamics, fluid dynamics and thermodynamics. Compared with the modeling technology of the curved surface, the development of the processing technology of the curved surface is slightly behind. In order to improve the processing quality and efficiency of the curved surface, this paper independently developed a five-axis CNC polishing machine tool, and studied the pre-processing and the post-processing when machining the curved surface. Taking a metal shell of the mobile phone as an example, three different paths are planned for the flat surface and the curved surface respectively, and a method for generating the tool path is proposed. The kinematics model of the five-axis CNC machine tool is established, which is used to obtain the calculation formula of the movement amount of each axis when polishing in the flat surface and the curved surface of the metal shell. The polishing effects of the different paths about the surface quality and the polishing efficiency of the metal shell are studied through the polishing experiments, and the polishing path with the best surface quality and the highest polishing efficiency is found.
Validity of Adult Psychopathology Model Using Psychiatric Patients Sample From a Developing Country: Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Alareqe Naser Abdulhafeeth , Hassan Siti Aishah , Kamarudin Engku Mardiah Engku , Nordin Mohamad Sahari , Ashureay Nadeem Mohamed , Mohammed Lubna Ali , AL-Jaberi Musheer Abdulwahid
Published: October 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to test and validate the two-factors measurement model of the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI). Specifically, this paper reported construct, convergent and divergent validities of the internalizing-externalizing MCMI model of adult psychopathology using a psychiatric sample from a developing society, the Republic of Yemen. Methods: MCMI was distributed among 232 outpatients from the Hospital of Taiz City and two private psychiatry clinics in Yemen; data were collected using structured interviews in four months. The Maximum Likelihood (ML) was used in Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and the Confirmatory Factory Analysis (CFA) to explore and confirm the latent underlying MCMI and verifying evidence of convergent and discriminate validity. Results: The CFA results indicated that MCMI was a good fit for the internalizing-externalizing model of adult psychopathology. The results of the CFA confirmed that evidence of convergent and discriminant validity characterized MCMI with the internalizing and externalizing model. Conclusion: The adult psychopathology of internalizing and externalizing is a valid model by MCMI with ten personality disorders and eight clinical syndromes. Thus, practical clinical implications are suggested.
Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 RNA Stability and Infectivity in Oropharyngeal Swab Samples
Authors: Neumann Markus , Grossegesse Marica , Bourquain Daniel , Schaade Lars , Nitsche Andreas
Published: October 2021

The reliable detection of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA and infectious virus particles from patient samples requires a good sample quality. This is especially critical when the sample has to be transported to the analysing laboratory which can take several days. To determine optimal transport conditions, we simulated oropharyngeal swab samples using defined virus amounts and stored the samples at 4 °C or at room temperature for up to four days. Moreover, we analysed the influence of dry swabs in comparison to swabs stored in transport medium. Our results show that care should be taken when analysing samples for infectious SARS-CoV-2 particles since infectivity is strongly influenced by sample storage.
Experimental Study of Thermal Characteristics of ZrO2/EG nanofluid for Application of Heat Transfer
Authors: Barai Rohinee Manish , Kumar Devesh , Wankhade Atul V. , Sayed Aamir R. , Junankar Anup A.
Published: October 2021

In thermal management system nanofluids will act as robust elements in future for coolants. Nanofluids have remarkable potential during the heat transfer increase reported by researchers from all over the world. Nanofluids have attracted many researchers and there have been tremendous advances because of the high thermal characteristics and possible applications in certain areas such as the transport sector, aerospace, medical regions and microelectronics. This current study reports on the thermal characteristics of nanofluid based on ZrO2/EG. The nanoparticles characterized by XRD and SEM techniques. Nanofluid was prepared by a two-step method in ethylene glycol (EG) using ultra sonication. The thermal conductivity of ZrO2/EG nanofluid was investigated experimentally at various volume concentrations (0.02-0.1vol. %) and temperature range between 35-55oC. The enhancement in thermal conductivity was observed to be 26.2 % at 0.1vol. % which exhibits superior performance as compared to base fluid (EG). The results of the experiment were compared with the three most often utilised model in the literature. The behavior of ZrO2/water based nanofluid thermal conductivity, viscosity and stability in various concentrations was studied.
Naringenin Protects Hepato-Renal Tissues Against Antituberculosis Drugs Induced Toxic Manifestations by Modulating IL-6, IGF-1, CYP2E1, Biochemical and Ultra-Structural Integrity
Authors: Sahu Nisha , Rakshit Samrat , Nirala Satendra Kumar , Bhadauria Monika
Published: October 2021

Adverse drug reactions are unavoidable risk factors allied with use of modern medicines. First-line anti-tuberculosis drugs (ATDs) contribute to diverse pathological complications lead to severe oxidative stress and cause hepato-renal injury. This study was designed to investigate protective potential of naringenin to limit ATDs (combination of pyrazinamide, ethambutol, isoniazid and rifampicin) induced hepato-renal injury. The dose of ATDs was converted from human dose into rat dose and three different doses (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) of naringenin was administered conjointly through oral route on alternate days for 8 weeks and every Sunday was a rest day. One-way ANOVA (P≤0.05) followed by Tukey’s post hoc HSD test determined statistical significance. Results indicated significant increase in IL-6, triglycerides, cholesterol, bilirubin but depletion in IGF-1, albumin and glucose in serum after exposure to ATDs. Lipid peroxidation in microsomes and CYP2E1 enzyme activity was also increased significantly whereas, a severe depletion of endogenous antioxidants including GR, GPx and G-6-PDH was observed. Ultra-structural observations of liver and kidney showed marked deviation in plasma membranes of various cellular and sub-cellular organelles. Conjoint treatment of naringenin counteracted ATDs induced toxic manifestations by regulating IL-6, IGF-1, biochemical and ultra-structural integrity in a dose dependent manner. Naringenin also inhibited the depletion of CYP2E1 enzyme as it provided help for biotransformation of ATDs. These findings demonstrated that naringenin provided protection against ATDs induced hepato-renal injury by balancing oxidative stress and inflammation via upregulating antioxidant enzymes.
Improving Quality of Service Provisioning of Optimised Cuckoo Search Ad Hoc on-demand Distance Vector Routing Scheme for Cognitive Radio Ad Hoc Networks.
Authors: Moila Ramahlapane Lerato , velempini Mthulisi
Published: October 2021

Spectrum mobility, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoTs) create large data sets, while the demand for more spectrum is increasing. Unfortunately, the spectrum is a scarce resource which is being underutilized by licensed users. The cognitive radio network, also known as intelligent radio, is a network that can adjust to environment changes and, detect available channels. It has emerged as a promising solution for the underutilization of the licensed spectrum and overcrowded free spectrum. Furthermore, given spectrum mobility, frequent link breakages impact negatively on the delivery of packets and the performance of the network. Hence there is need to address the routing problem. We therefore investigated which control methods can be utilized to improve the QoS provisioning in CRAHNs to minimize the signal overhead and to increase the achievable throughput.The study integrated the QoS requirements with optimized cuckoo search (OCS) algorithm to enhance the ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) algorithm to establish a scheme we refer to as OCS-AODV. NS 2 simulation were run on Linux operating system. The comparative results show that the proposed scheme performed well in terms of end-to-end delay and throughput. However, the scheme does not backup alternative paths which can be used in the event of link breakages. The route discovery has to be re-initiated again. Though the route discovery process is faster because of the capability of the CS technique, it still degrades the performance of the scheme.
Four-dimensional hydrogel-in-hydrogel bioprinting for the spatiotemporal control of organoid and organotypic cultures
Authors: Elvassore Nicola , Urciuolo Anna , Giobbe Giovanni , Dong Yixiao , Michielin Federica , brandolino Luca , Magnussen Michael , Gagliano Onelia , Selmin Giulia , Scattolini Valentina , Raffa Paolo , Shibuya Soichi , Wang Xuechun , Qu Ju , Nikolic Marko , Montagner Marco , Clevers Hans , Giomo Monica , De Coppi Paolo
Published: October 2021

Tissue architecture is a driving force for morphogenetic processes during development as well as for several physiological and regenerative responses. Far from being a passive static environment, tissue architecture is highly dynamic. Hydrogel technology reproduces in vitro geometrical and mechanical constrains that control the three-dimensional self-organization of (3D) organoids and organ-like cultures. This control is restricted to the initial culture conditions and cannot be adapted to the dynamic morphological changes of complex 3D cultures during their developmental trajectory. Here, we developed a method that overcomes this spatiotemporal limit. Using 2P crosslinking approach, high resolution 3D hydrogel structures can be fabricated within pre-existing hydrogel with spatiotemporal (four-dimensional, 4D) control relative to ex-vivo organotypic or organoid culture. This hydrogel-in-hydrogel bioprinting approach enables to continuously instruct the self-organization of the evolving 3D organ-like cultures.
Serum Myoglobin Potentiates Acute Kidney Injury Following Exertional Heatstroke and Its Mechanisms Involved Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Associated Ferroptosis
Authors: Luan Ying-yi , Huang En-ping , Zhou Rong-ping , Huang Jia-jia , Yang Zhen-jia , Zhou Zhi-peng , Zhang Jingjing , Liu Yan , Liu Zhi-feng , Wu Ming
Published: October 2021

Background: Myoglobin released by rhabdomyolysis (RM) is considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of kidney disease caused by crush injury, but whether a high level of serum myoglobin predisposes patients to acute kidney injury (AKI) and increases mortality following exertional heatstroke (EHS) and its molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Methods: Serum myoglobin concentrations in patients with EHS were measured at admission, 24 h and 48 h after admission and discharge. The risk of AKI at 48 hours was the primary outcome, AKI at discharge and death at 90 days were the secondary outcome. In experimental studies, we further investigated the mechanisms of human kidney proximal tubular (HK-2) cells that were exposed to human myoglobin under heat stress conditions and the effect of baicalein.Results: The myoglobin levels were assessed in 187 patients who were undergoing EHS, 82 who were undergoing AKI. The highest myoglobin quartile (vs. the lowest) had an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 18.95 (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.00 to 59.83) for the primary outcome and the OR (vs. quartile 2) was 7.92 (95% CI, 1.62 to 38.89) for the secondary outcome. The survival rate of HK-2 cells treated with myoglobin under heat stress was significantly decreased, and the production of Fe2+ and ROS was markedly increased, accompanied by changes in ferroptosis proteins, including increased p53, decreased SLC7A11 and GPX4, and alterations in ERS marker proteins. Treatment with baicalein attenuated HK-2 cell ferroptosis induced by myoglobin under heat stress through inhibition of ERS. Conclusions: High serum myoglobin levels were associated with AKI and mortality following EHS, which mechanisms involved ferroptosis and ERS. Baicalein-targeted ERS- ferroptosis may be a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of AKI in patients with RM after EHS.
Zika virus impacts extracellular vesicle composition and cellular gene expression in macaque early gestation trophoblasts
Authors: Block Lindsey , Schmidt Jenna Kropp , McKeon Megan , Bowman Brittany , Wiepz Gregory , Golos Thaddeus
Published: October 2021

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection at the maternal-placental interface is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including fetal demise and pregnancy loss. To determine how infection impacts placental trophoblasts, we utilized rhesus macaque trophoblast stem cells (TSC) that can be differentiated into early gestation syncytiotrophoblasts (ST) and extravillous trophoblasts (EVT). TSCs and STs, but not EVTs, were highly permissive to productive infection with ZIKV strain DAK AR 41524. The impact of ZIKV on the cellular transcriptome showed that infection of TSCs and STs increased expression of immune related genes, including those involved in type I and type III interferon responses. ZIKV exposure altered extracellular vesicle (EV) protein, mRNA, and miRNA cargo, regardless of productive infection. These findings suggest that early gestation macaque TSCs and STs are permissive to ZIKV infection, and that EV analysis may provide a foundation for identifying non-invasive biomarkers of placental infection in a highly translational model.
IDC: Quantitative Evaluation Benchmark of Interpretation Methods for Deep Text Classification Models
Authors: Khaleel Mohammed , Qi Lei , Tavanapong Wallapak , Wong Johnny , Sukul Adisak , Peterson David
Published: October 2021

Recent advances in deep neural networks have achieved outstanding success in natural language processing. Due to the success and the black-box nature of the deep models, interpretation methods that provide insight into the decision-making process of the models have received an influx of research attention. However, there is no quantitative evaluation comparing interpretation methods for text classification other than observing classification accuracy or prediction confidence when important word grams are removed. This is due to the lack of interpretation ground truth. Manual labeling of a large interpretation ground truth is time-consuming. We propose IDC, a new benchmark for quantitative evaluation of I nterpretation methods for D eep text C lassification models. IDC consists of three methods that take existing text classification ground truth and generate three corresponding pseudo-interpretation ground truth datasets. We propose to use interpretation recall, interpretation precision, and Cohen’s kappa inter-agreement as performance metrics. We used the pseudo ground truth datasets and the metrics to evaluate six interpretation methods.
Risk of Developing Perforations and Abscesses for Patients With Appendicitis, With Regards to Duration of Symptoms. A Retrospective Cohort Study.
Authors: Andrésson Gunnar , Kristínardóttir Árný
Published: October 2021

ObjectiveSome studies have supported delayed appendectomy citing that the risk of perforation does not increase until beyond 24-48 hours of hospitalization. This retrospective cohort study looked at the relationship of duration of symptoms and the prevalence of perforated appendicitis. To evaluate if a delayed approach would be justifiable.MethodsBetween 1st of January 2018 and 30th of March 2020, there were N=1274 patients, 40 years or younger, suspected of appendicitis at the National University Hospital of Iceland. n=658 had appendicitis and n=105 of them had a perforated appendix. ResultsRelative risk for perforations depending on duration of symptoms were; 6.4, 14.7, 20.2 and 27.1 for 24-48, 48-72, 72-96, and over 96 hours, respectively, compared to 0-24 hours (p < 0.001). There was also a significant correlation with increased duration of symptoms and prolonged hospital stay for patients with appendicitis (p < 0.0001 and rho = 0.36). ConclusionThis indicates that perforations are dependent on the duration of the symptomatic period, and it is probably beneficial to react early and not postpone the workup or treatment past 24 hours.
Aerosol Release, Distribution and Prevention during Aerosol Therapy: A Simulated Model for Infection Control.
Authors: Eain Marc Mac Giolla , Cahill Ronan , MacLoughlin Ronan , Nolan Kevin
Published: October 2021

Background: Aerosol therapy is used to deliver medical therapeutics directly to the airways to treat respiratory illnesses. A potential side-effect of this form of treatment is the release of fugitive aerosols into the environment and the exposure of caregivers, other patients, and bystanders to potential viral infections. The aim of this work was to use both flow visualisation and aerosol particle characterisation techniques to study the dispersion, concentrations and size distributions of fugitive aerosols emitted during aerosol therapy delivered via a standard mouthpiece.Methods: Aerosol therapy was delivered via a nebuliser, aerosol holding chamber and mouthpiece to a spontaneously breathing adult patient model that could mimic the release of patient-derived bioaerosol. A combination of laser and Schlieren imaging were used to non-invasively visualise the release and dispersion of fugitive aerosol particles. Time varying aerosol particle number concentrations and size distributions were measured with optical particle sizers at clinically relevant positions. Results: The addition of a capture filter to the expiratory port of the mouthpiece significantly reduced the release and spread of fugitive aerosols. Capture filters were effective in curtailing the release of fugitive aerosols of respirable size, ≤ 5 µm in diameter (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: The findings suggest that, where possible, capture filters should be added to the expiratory ports of all aerosol therapy devices to prevent airborne transmission of respiratory illnesses and create safer conditions for healthcare workers and patients.
Monomorphic Epitheliotropic Intestinal T Cell Lymphoma With Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Yang Lin , Xiao Hai-Juan , Ma Xiao-Yan , Li Rui-Ni , Fang Yu
Published: October 2021

Enteropathy-associated T cell lymphoma(EATL) is a kind of malignant lymphoma with strong invasiveness. Due to poor effect of conventional symptomatic treatment, the prognosis is not as good as other T-cell lymphomas. A 63-year-old man was admitted to our hospital due to hematochezia. No definite cause was found by electronic gastroscopy and electronic colonoscopy. After symptomatic treatment, the patient's condition did not show significant remission. However, he refused further examination and was discharged. Two months later, the man was admitted to our hospital again due to hematochezia. The site of the lesion was found by capsule endoscopy and small intestinal endoscopy, and the nature of the lesion was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The patient received chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation after a definite diagnosis. No recurrence or metastasis has been found in an 18-months follow-up after treatment.
Direct Transcriptomic Comparison of Xenobiotic Metabolism and Toxicity Pathway Induction of Airway Epithelium Models at an Air Liquid Interface Generated from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Primary Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Djidrovski Ivo , Georgiou Maria , Tasinato Elena , Leonard Martin O. , Bor Jelle Van den , Lako Majlinda , armstrong lyle
Published: October 2021

The airway epithelium represents the main barrier between inhaled air and the tissues of the respiratory tract and is therefore an important point of contact with xenobiotic substances into the human body. Several studies have recently shown that in vitro models of the airway grown at an air liquid interface (ALI) can be particularly useful to obtain mechanistic information about the toxicity of chemical compounds. However, such methods are not very amenable to high throughput since the primary cells cannot be expanded indefinitely in culture to obtain a sustainable number of cells. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have become a popular option in the recent years for modelling the airways of the lung, but despite progress in the field, such models have so far not been assessed for their ability to metabolise xenobiotic compounds and how they compare to the primary bronchial airway model (pBAE). Here we report a comparative analysis by TempoSeq (oligo directed sequencing) of an iPSC derived airway model (iBAE) with a primary bronchial airway model (pBAE). The iBAE and pBAE were differentiated at an ALI and then evaluated in a 5-compound screen with exposure to a sub lethal concentration of each compound for 24 hours. We found that despite lower expression of xenobiotic metabolism genes, that the iBAE similarly predicted the toxic pathways when compared to the pBAE model. Our results show that iPSC airway models at ALI show promise for inhalation toxicity assessments with further development.
Evaluation of Hydraulic Performance On Lower Areb Small Scale Irrigation Scheme Amhara, Ethiopia
Authors: Angualie Gashaw Sintayehu , Belayneh Alemshet , Berhanu Kibru Gedam , Munye Tirunesh Muluken , Ejigu Kefale , Alemu Chalachew , Tamirat Dawit Munye
Published: October 2021

This study was conducted in the Lower Areb small-scale irrigation scheme for one crop season from March to May 2018 to evaluate the hydraulic performance of the scheme by estimating the hydraulic performance indicators, physical performance indicators, and maintenance performance indicators. The primary data including water flow rate, soil physical properties, and water infiltration were collected. The secondary data collected were climatic, crop data, and data from different reports and design documents including the irrigation water users' interviews. The hydraulic performance of the irrigation scheme was evaluated by estimating adequacy, efficiency, dependability, and equity indicators at nine selected offtakes; three each at the head, middle, and tail reaches of the scheme. The physical performance and maintenance indicators were determined using the irrigation ratio, the sustainability of the irrigated area, the effectiveness of infrastructure, and the water surface elevation ratio. The data were analyzed by using CROPWAT 8.0, ARC GIS 10.1 software, and Microsoft Excel 2013. The overall average values of adequacy, efficiency, dependability, and equity were found to be 0.89. 0.91, 0.096 and 0.07 respectively. Therefore, dependability, equity, and efficiency were under good condition and adequacy was under fair condition. The irrigation ratio and sustainability of irrigated areas were 54% and 123% respectively. The effectiveness of infrastructure and water surface elevation ratios were 73.33% and 94% respectively.
Hepatitis E Seroprevalence and Risk Factors in Humans and pig in Ghana
Authors: Bagulo Husein , Majekodunmi Ayodele O. , Welburn Susan C. , Bimi Langbong
Published: October 2021

Background
Although Hepatitis E has significant negative impact on the health and wellbeing of underprivileged populations, the burden of HEV in Ghana is still unclear, despite widespread conditions that predispose people to the risk of infection.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted to explore rates of HEV exposure and active infection, as well as risk factors in humans and domestic pigs in Ghana. The study involved 1365 community members, 105 pig farmers and 474 domestic pigs from four administrative regions of Ghana.
Results
Results showed overall seroprevalence and actual prevalence of 12.4% and 0.7% in community members and 15.2% and 2.9% in pig farmers respectively. There was no significant difference in seroprevalence between the two groups (Z = 0.851; p = 0.395). However, the prevalence in pig farmers was significantly higher than in other community members (Z = 2.412; p = 0.016). Age (OR = 1.369, CI = 1.243 – 1.508; p = 0.0000), gender (OR = 1.419, CI = 1.101 – 1.991; p = 0.043), and the region of residence (OR = 1.569, CI = 1.348 – 1.827; p = 0.0000) were significant risk factors for HEV seroprevalence in a multivariate regression model.
Spinal Nerve Block and Recovery after Spinal Anesthesia in Frail Patients - a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Tzu-Ling , Su Yi-Kai , Chang Yun-Chi , Chen Tzu-Shan , Lam Chen-Fuh
Published: October 2021

BackgroundFrailty in surgical patients is associated with significantly higher incidences of perioperative mortality and complications. Although neuraxial anesthesia is preferable alternative to general anesthesia in frail patients, it remains undetermined whether the pharmacodynamic profiles of local anesthetics used in intrathecal spinal nerve blocks are altered in this population.MethodsThis prospective observational cohort study recruited 62 patients scheduled for operations that were able to be performed under spinal anesthesia between April 22 to June 30, 2020 in our hospitals. Levels of dermatome blockage after spinal anesthesia and the recovery of spinal nerve sensory and motor function were recorded.ResultsThe prevalence of frailty in patients receiving spinal anesthesia in this study was 25.8%. Compared with non-frail patients, frail patients were significantly older, had a higher proportion of females, and tolerated less intense metabolic equivalent activities. The pre-surgical incision sensory blockage levels were not different between frail and non-frail patients following intrathecal administration of similar dose of bupivacaine. Time intervals to pain sensation at surgical sites (sensory recovery) and voluntary knee flexion (motor recovery) were also similar between the frail and non-frail groups. But, frail patients were associated with more episodes of hypotension and required more vasopressors during operations.ConclusionOur study illustrates that bupivacaine sensitivity in spinal nerve blocks is not significantly affected by frailty. However, special attention should be paid to correct intraoperative hypotension after spinal anesthesia in frail patients.
Association Between Dairy and Ischemic Heart Disease Among Chinese Adult: A Prospective Study in Qingdao
Authors: Song Jiahui , Pan Chi , Li Feifei , Guo Yu , Pei Pei , Tian Xiaocao , Wang Shaojie , Gao Ruqin , Pang Zengchang , Chen Zhengming , Li Liming
Published: October 2021

Background

Previous studies linking dairy consumption with ischemic heart disease (IHD) are almost from western countries, few from China. The present study was to explore the relationship between dairy consumption and IHD among Chinese adults.
Methods

The data for the present study was from the prospective cohort study of China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) in Qingdao, a total of 33,355 participants in the present study. An interviewer-administered laptop-based questionnaire was used to collect information on the consumption frequency of dairy, incident IHD cases were identified through Disease Surveillance Point System (DSPs) and the new national health insurance databases. Cox regression analyses were performed to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence interval (CI) for the relationship between the incidence of IHD and dairy consumption.
Results

The baseline survey reported that 32.4% of males and 34.6% of females consumed dairy regularly (i.e. ≥4 days/week). Over an average of 9.2 years follow-up, 2,712 new-onset IHD were documented. Compared with participants who never or rarely consume dairy, the hazard ratio (HR) of consumed dairy regularly was 0.85(0.73-0.98) for males (P<0.05), while no significant benefits were identified for females.
Conclusions

In Chinese adults, regular dairy consumption had an inverse association to the onset of IHD only for males, while no similar association for females.
Clinicopathological Significance of Nestin Expression as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Marker in Brain Gliomas, Independent of IDH Mutation
Authors: Woo Chang Gok
Published: October 2021

Background: Nestin, a type VI intermediate filament, is expressed in neuroepithelial cells during embryogenesis and has been expressed in various human tumors. Recent studies have reported that expression is associated with poor prognosis in brain tumors, but the results are inconclusive. In this study, we evaluated usefulness of Nestin expression using immunohistochemistry as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for IDH mutation and the new World Health Organization (WHO) classification.Methods: To investigate Nestin expression, immunohistochemistry was performed on 92 adult brain gliomas using tissue microarrays. We further analyzed the clinical characteristics and survival outcomes according to Nestin expression and examined its correlation with another glioma biomarker, IDH mutation.Results: Sixty patients (65.2%) were Nestin-positive (weak and strong). Nestin expression and intensity were significantly correlated with age, location, diagnosis, and IDH mutations. Old age and high-grade gliomas showed a higher frequency and stronger intensity of Nestin expression than those of young age and with low-grade gliomas (p<0.001). Gliomas with IDH mutations that are located in the frontal lobe showed no expression or had weak positivity. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that Nestin expression (weak, hazard ratio [HR] 5.39, p=0.036; strong, HR 8.43, p=0.007) and IDH wildtype (HR 7.63; p=.001) were significant independent prognostic factors. Moreover, patients with tumors expressing Nestin showed shorter survival (p<0.001).Conclusions: Nestin expression exhibits high intensity in high-grade gliomas and is a useful diagnostic marker. High expression and level of Nestin were significantly correlated with worse survival and was considered a significant marker of poor prognosis in new WHO classification, independent of IDH mutation.
Low Abundance Members of the Gut Microbiome are Potent Drivers of Immune Cell Education.
Authors: Han Geongoo , Luong Hien , Vaishnava Shipra
Published: October 2021

Background: One of the main goals of microbiome research is to identify bacterial members that significantly affect host phenotypes and understand their contributions to disease pathogenesis. Studies identifying bacterial members that dictate host phenotype have focused mainly on the dominant members, and the role of low abundance microbes in determining host phenotypes and pathogenesis of diseases remains unexplored. In this study, we compared the gut bacterial community of mice with wide-ranging microbial exposure to determine if low abundance bacteria vary based on microbial exposure or remain consistent.Results: We noted that similar to the high abundance bacterial community, a core community of low abundance bacteria made up a significant portion of the gut microbiome irrespective of microbial exposure. To determine the effect of low abundance bacteria on community structure and host gene expression, we devised a microbiome dilution strategy to “delete” out low abundance bacteria and engrafted the diluted microbiomes into germ-free mice. Our approach successfully excluded low abundance bacteria from small and large intestinal bacterial communities and induced global changes in microbial community structure and composition in the large intestine. Gene expression analysis of intestinal tissue revealed that loss of low abundance bacteria resulted in a drastic reduction in expression of multiple genes involved MHC class II antigen presentation pathway and T-cell cytokine production in the small intestine. The effect of low abundance bacteria on MHC class II expression was found specific to the intestinal epithelium at an early timepoint post-colonization and correlated with bacteria belonging to the family Erysipelotrichaceae. Conclusions: We conclude that low abundance bacteria have a significantly higher immuno-stimulatory effect compared to dominant bacteria and are thus potent drivers of early immune education in the gut. Therefore, characterizing immune interaction of low abundance bacteria with the host will offer greater insight into the intestinal immune landscape and disease pathogenesis.Keywords: Gut microbiome, Low abundance bacteria, Immune education, MHC class II, Erysipelotrichaceae
Genetic Variation in Released Gametes Produces Genetic Diversity in the Offspring of the Broadcast Spawning Coral Acropora Tenuis
Authors: Kitanobo Seiya , Toshino Sho , Morita Masaya
Published: October 2021

All coral species in the genus Acropora are broadcast-spawning hermaphrodites. Fertilization in the ocean requires sufficient numbers of gametes from conspecifics and the contact time for fertilization is thought to be limited by the rapid diffusion of sperm. Many studies have reported a positive correlation between sperm concentration and fertilization success, but it is not clear how released gametes are fertilized in nature (in situ) and how genetic diversity arises at a fertilization event. To elucidate this, we analyzed the changes in sperm concentration in situ after spawning and genotyped sperm and fertilized eggs from seawater using seven microsatellite (MS) markers. This showed that the sperm concentration in situ was suboptimal (<106 sperm/mL), but most of the eggs were fertilized. MS genotyping showed that the alleles of released sperm were diverse and those alleles also appeared in the fertilized eggs. In addition, the MS fragment peak height in released sperm, which presumable reflects the allele frequency of the sperm, was positively correlated with the allele frequencies of the fertilized eggs. Collectively, the genetic diversity of colonies with high fecundity dictates the genetic diversity of their descendants.
The Status of Metabolic Control in Patients With Diabetes Attending Primary Care Clinics in Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: ALFADHLI Eman Mohammed , SOBHY Ghada Mohamed , MASOUD Ruqaya Saleh , GADI Yaseera Ali , Surrati Amal Mohammed , SIDAHMED Laila Awad
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVE: Comprehensive control of diabetes and its related comorbidities is essential to avoid diabetes complications and reduce diabetes care expenses. Nevertheless, several reports have uncovered the gap in diabetes management and confirmed the suboptimal glycemic control globally. This study aims to assess the metabolic control among patients with diabetes attending primary care clinics (PCCs) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at 15 PCCS in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Consecutive 692 adult diabetic patients who attended the clinics between January 2016 to December 2017 were included. The primary outcome measures were achieving blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipids goals. The achievement of adequate metabolic control followed the American diabetes association (ADA) guidelines. RESULT: Majority (98%) of the patients had type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with a mean age of 55.1±11.6 years and a mean diabetes duration of 11.02±7.8 years. The mean HbA1c was 8.39±1.7, and glycemic goals (HbA1C < 7%) were achieved in 15.7%. Achievement of LDL, triglyceride, and HDL goals were as follow; 46.4%. 53.3%, 70.8%, respectively. 66.3% of subjects achieved systolic blood pressure, and 88.7% achieved diastolic blood pressure goals. Younger age, longer diabetes duration, and higher LDL levels were associated with poor glycemic control. CONCLUSION: Glycemic control is inadequate among patients with diabetes following at the PCCs in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. A patient-centered approach and individualized management plan considering all risk factors are required.
Predictable Patterns and Their Corresponding Signal Sources of Midsummer Surface Air Temperature Over Eastern China in the ECMWF S2S Forecasts
Authors: Jia Zikang , Zheng Zhihai , Zhu Yufan , Zang Naihui , Feng Guolin , Huang Bicheng
Published: October 2021

The maximum signal-to-noise empirical orthogonal function (MSN EOF) method is used to evaluate the midsummer 2-m air temperature (T2m) over Eastern China of subseasonal to seasonal scale forecast data in ECMWF model, and investigate the underlying mechanisms between temperature modes and predictable sources. The first predictable pattern mainly presents the dipole mode of positive value in the south and negative value in the north. The model captures the signal of the transition from preceding El Niño to La Niña and accompanying tropical Indian Ocean warm surface temperature. In the summer of transforming years, the West Pacific Subtropical High is stronger and westward, meanwhile the southwest monsoon strengthens, which are the main direct influence factors of the high pressure in the south and the more precipitation in the north. Compared with observations, although the model captures the relationship between the temperature mode and the previous sea surface temperature signal, it obscures the mediating role of the Western Pacific Subtropical High. The second predictable pattern is the warmer characteristic of the Yangtze River valley (YRV), and North Atlantic Oscillation which the atmospheric internal variability is the main signal. The wave train propagating from northwestern Russia to Northeast Asia is the main cause of the abnormal high pressure over YRV. The third mode is mainly the temperature trend item, and the spatial characteristics of observation and model are quite different. ECMWF model shows high forecasting skills in the three modes, and presents high (low) surface pressure in areas with high (lower) temperatures, reduced (increased) precipitation and increased (reduced) solar radiation, which proving the model simulates the potential mechanism of circulation anomalies affecting surface air temperature commendably.
Morphological Attributes Govern CO2 Reduction on Mesoporous Carbon Nanosphere with Embedded Axial Co-N5 Sites
Authors: Li Youzhi , Wei Bo , Li Zhongjian , Fan Lei , Jiang Qike , Lei Lecheng , Zhang Ruifeng , Lu Yingying
Published: October 2021

Although single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been widely employed in the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), the understanding regarding the effect of morphological attributes on catalytic performance are still lacking, which prevents the rational design of high-performance catalysts for electrochemical CO2RR. Here, we developed a novel catalyst with axial Co-N5 sites embedded on controllable mesoporous carbon nanosphere with different graded pore structures. Benefiting from the precise control of porosity, the influence of morphological attributes on catalytic performance was well revealed. In situ characterization combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that axial N-coordination induced local d-p orbitals coupling enhancement of Co with oxides and the optimal pore size of 27 nm promoted the interfacial bonding characteristics, which facilitate both the COOH* generation and CO desorption. Consequently, A superior selectivity of nearly 100% at -0.8 V vs. RHE and commercially relevant current densities of >150 mA cm−2 could be achieved, and a strikingly high turnover frequency of 1.136*104 h−1 at -1.0 V has been obtained, superior to the most of Co-based catalysts.
Inheritance of Compact Growth Habit, and Investigation of Linkage to Weeping Architecture and Purple Leaf Color in Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis L.)
Authors: Chen Hsuan , Werner Dennis J.
Published: October 2021

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis L.) is a commonly used small landscape tree. Compact growth, purple leaf color, and weeping architecture are three popular ornamental phenotypes. Inheritances of weeping architecture and purple leaves have been reported previously. Inheritance of compact growth habit and its genetic linkage with the weeping and purple leaf genes have not been reported. In the present research, the inheritance of compact growth derived from ‘Ace of Hearts’ was explored in the F1, F2, and reciprocal backcross families resulting from the controlled hybridization of ‘Ruby Falls’ (normal growth/weeping architecture/purple leaf) × ‘Ace of Hearts’ (compact growth/nonweeping architecture/green leaf). All 27 F1 individuals were nonweeping, green-leaved, and noncompact. A total of 572 F2 progeny were obtained, and subsequent analysis of segregation revealed a single recessive gene controlled compact growth habit. Analysis of reciprocal backcross families confirmed this result as well. Weeping architecture and purple leaf color were also controlled by single recessive genes, confirming findings presented in previous studies in another redbud family. No linkage between the three genes was detected. This research is the first to report the inheritance of compact growth in eastern redbud and confirms independent assortment between the compact, purple leaf, and weeping genes.
Improving Clinical Nurses’ Competency and Nursing Care Using the Research Process Model
Authors: Okubo Nobuko , Yokoyama Eriko , Honda Keiko , Takeda Kihoko , Sakai Hiromi , Ishii Rie , Miura Yuriko
Published: October 2021

Background

Clinical nurses working in an acute neurosurgery ward and researchers conducted research using the research process model with the aim to improve nursing competency, nursing autonomy, work motivation, ethics, and actual nursing care content. The research clarified: (a) how clinical nurses in the neurosurgical ward changed and the process of improving nursing competence; (b) changes regarding clinical nurses’ patient care autonomy, work motivation, and ethics; (c) changes in nursing care (rate of medical restraint, rate of manual removal of faeces, etc.) and (d) changes in patients’ and families’ degree of nursing care satisfaction.

Methods

Participants were a purposive sample of 12 (50%) ward nurses from a neurosurgery ward in a 500-bed hospital that had emergency care. Qualitative and quantitative data were from descriptions of the research process model and interviews, with the use of professional autonomy scale, work motivation scale, ethical behaviour scale, implementation rates of medical restraints and manual removal of faeces to inpatients, and by changes in nursing care and patient satisfaction. Data were collected before, during and at the completion of research. Analyses for quantitative data was done by unpaired t-test and ANOVA, and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Significance was set at (p < 0.05).

Results

Professional autonomy scores gradually increased after the start of research and were significantly higher at the midpoint. The ethical behaviour scores gradually increased from the starting point, but there was no significant difference. The work motivation scores gradually increased and had significantly increased at the end of the study period compared to the starting point. The rate of medical restraints on patients significantly decreased in the end compared to the beginning, while the rate of manual removal of faeces significantly decreased at the midpoint and in the end compared to the starting point. Families complained about nurses’ response and care during the three-year period prior to the start of the research, but a year after the start of this research, no complaints were observed. The nurses improved nursing competence from Stage 1 : realization of individual nursing care anew; Stage 2: collaborating with various medical professionals; Stage 3: pursuit of specialized nursing; and Stage 4: promote competence of leadership and team building ability for all nurses. The research process model in this study improved nursing competency of the nurses participating in the study.

Conclusion

Going through the four stages, the clinical nurses working in the acute neurosurgery ward were able to improve their actual nursing care and increased their nursing competency.
Huntington’s Disease: A Nursing Perspective
Authors: Samperi Sarah V , Kwong Peter , McGill Terence , Tsui David S
Published: October 2021

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the HTT gene. The motor, cognitive and psychiatric features of HD are progressive and complex, requiring specialised care by medical, nursing and allied health care professionals. This paper discusses the role of the HD nurse as a valuable resource to assess, provide, facilitate and educate on the specialised needs of those living with HD.