bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A COMPACT RECTENNA FOR 5G MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS
Authors: Marriwala Nikhil , B Debarpita
Published: June 2022

The aim of this paper is to structure a compact size rectenna for 5G mobile communication. The scale of the antenna is to kept as small as possible here we have considered 18 X 10 X 5 mm and operating frequency of 12GHz. The antenna designed here is probably going to own its applications in mobile communication system. The antenna designed in this project is structured in such a way that it is covering a good wide range of frequency from X-band to Ka-band. The antenna designed have two symmetrical elements which increases gain, reduce return loss and improve bandwidth .And the desired antenna is interfaced with rectifier in order to increase its battery life. In this work we have achieved two resonating frequencies one at 11GHz and 34GHz with return loss at -14dB and − 18.0146dB and gain of 4.36535935watt which is converted to dc power of 4.768 Watts. In this work different parameters like return loss, Gain, Radiation pattern, rectifier design and dc power generated are improved.
Landslide Identification and Deformation Monitoring Analysis in Xining City Based on the Time Series InSAR of Sentinel-1A with Ascending and Descending Orbits
Authors: He Li , Wu Xiantan , He Zhengwei , Xue Dongjian , Bai Wenqian , Kang Guichuan , Chen Xin , Zhang Yuxiang
Published: June 2022

Landslide disasters occur frequently in the Loess Plateau of China, which seriously threatens the economic development and the safety of life and property. Using time-series Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) to identify potential active landslides and monitor their deformation is conducive to prevent and reduce the harm caused by disasters. This paper takes Xining City as the research area, using the sentinel-1A radar images ascending orbit and descending orbit, the ground surface deformation rate and time series variables in the study area were obtained by using two time series InSAR technologies of small baseline subset (SBAS) and permanent scatterer (PS).Through the cross inspection of the deformation results detected by SBAS and PS technology, it is found that the deformation characteristics detected by SBAS technology are richer in space, the cumulative deformation variables are more robust, and have more advantages in the identification of active landslides. Compared with GNSS monitoring data, the cumulative deformation of landslide detected by PS technology has better fitting degree and higher accuracy. The experimental results show that time-series InSAR technology can effectively identify and monitor loess landslides, which provides a scientific basis for regional disaster prevention and control.
Diagnostic and Pathogenesis Performance of Circulating miR-146b, miR-194, and miR-214 in Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Aghajanzadeh Taha , Talkhabi Mahmood , Zali Mohammad Reza , Hatami Behzad , Baghaei Kaveh
Published: June 2022

Background
Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins through the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Due to the lack of an accurate test for early diagnosis of liver fibrosis and being invasiveness of the liver biopsy procedure, there is an urgent need for effective non-invasive biomarkers for screening the patients. Here, we aim to evaluate a diagnostic panel of circulating miRNAs (miR-146b, -194, -214) and their related mechanisms in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis.
Methods
The expression levels of miR-146b, miR-194, and miR-214 were detected in the whole blood of NAFLD patients (N = 34) using real-time PCR (qPCR), and their correlation was calculated with the clinical factors of patients. Next, we constructed the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network and performed a gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) for HSC activation-related genes. Also, we illustrated the transcription factor (TF)-miR co-regulatory network and analyzed the survival plot for three miRNAs and core genes.
Results
The qPCR results showed that relative expression of miR-146b and miR-214 significantly increased in NAFLD patients, while miR-194 was significantly down-regulated (p < 0.05). miR-146b and miR-214 showed significant correlation with total cholesterol (r = 0.43, p = 0.03) and ALT level (r=-0.56, p = 0.004), respectively. The ceRNA network demonstrated that NEAT1 and XIST sponged candidate miRNAs. Based on GSEA analysis, 15 target mRNA were selected as core genes which are involved in HSC activation, and were mainly enriched in the NF-κB activation and autophagy. STAT3, TCF3, RELA, and RUNX1 were considered potential TFs connected to miRNAs in the TF-miR network.
Conclusions
Our study elucidated three candidate miRNAs differentially expressed in the NAFLD patients’ blood and could serve as a promising non-invasive diagnostic tool for early detection of NAFLD. Also, NF-κB activation, autophagy, and negative regulation of apoptotic process are the main potential underlying mechanisms regulated by these miRNAs in the liver fibrosis pathogenesis.
Scoping review using PRISMA-SCR on m-health interventions on self-care management of type 2 diabetes at home
Authors: Sinha Abhijeet Prasad , Joshi Ashish , Singhal Manmohan , Gupta Mansi
Published: June 2022

The goal of this study is to conduct a scoping evaluation of the global evidence on m-health interventions and to determine the efficacy of mobile-based self-management interventions for type 2 diabetes mellitus. A rigorous search of the PubMed and Scopus research databases was conducted. Studies on Type 2 diabetes conducted in age ranges 18-75 years and published in English worldwide from 2010 to 2020 are included. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using mobile-based self-management for type 2 diabetes patients, as well as recording and analysis of results at the patient level, were among the studies. The studies were checked by the reviewer, and they were then independently reviewed by a second reviewer. The data was extracted, graphed, and the studies' quality was evaluated. To deliver study outcomes and 27 recommendations, the scoping study approach employs Arksey and O'Malley's operational framework. This work is presented using the PRISMA-SCR checklist. The assessment comprised a total of 40 articles, all of which were RCT-based treatments studies with over 3800 participants. For this study, 40 original research publications were chosen. The chosen studies mostly focused on type 2 diabetes self-management (N = 40) and hypertension self-management (N = 2). The usage of mobile SMS (N = 17) or mobile on phone (N = 12), the content of session education with mobile (N = 10) or the placement of mobile devices (N = 4) were among the several treatments. The therapies were usually successful, resulting in better glucose control and improved health indices. Conclusions:For patients with type 2 diabetes, mobile-based self-management interventions appear to have beneficial benefits on self-care and management, as well as meaningful outcomes. Overall improvement in physiologic markers, self-care, and patient quality of life in Type 2 Diabetes patients. Though the research focused on results in small populations, there was little indication that the intervention will be scaled up in the future. Furthermore, the findings suggest that more research into self-management, which includes nutrition informatics in a self-care management regime, is needed, with a particular focus on the availability of nutrition informatics by area. This will also aid in diabetic and cardiovascular disease co-management. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), self-management looks to be an effective way of improving health outcomes, hence mobile-led selfcare management treatments incorporating nutritional informatics may be beneficial.
Pulmonary Function Test induction Jacket - A device which reduces the effort related challenges during Forced Vital Capacity maneuver.
Authors: Rajdeep Prashant , Poorey Ketaki , Patel RK , Oommen ER
Published: June 2022

Background- Over the last few years, the prevalence of lung function abnormalities has led to several mass testing programs across the world. PFT induction jacket has been invented as a small step towards making the process of performing FVC maneuver effortless and productive for both the patients and the medical practitioner. Method- The jacket is made up of a three-layered PVC sheet sealed together to form a single jacket with two chambers. The inner chamber is formed between an inner layer and middle layer, in which, when triggered cold water of 10 degree is circulated using connected water unit. Like ways, an outer chamber where air is pressurised using connected air unit is formed between middle layer and outer layer. Thirty volunteers performed FVC maneuver with and without wearing jacket. Results- There was no difference between the results in spirometry parameters ‘without jacket’ and ‘with jacket’. However, Median ± IQR (Q3-Q1) for the number of trials, which a participant had to undergo to perform spirometry was 3 ± 2 (4 − 2) (without jacket) and 1 ± 1 (2 − 1) (with jacket) and this difference was statistically significant (Wilcoxon signed rank test z = 4.129, p < 0.0001), which shows the jacket’s usefulness in performing FVC maneuver. Conclusion- PFT induction jacket has automated the FVC maneuver of computerized Spirometer by triggering physiological inspiratory gasp using cold water and circumscribing pressurised air for expiration. Induction jacket makes the maneuver easy to perform, time efficient and effortless for the patient.
Cadmium speciation in sediments: Effect of grain size, pH, organic acids, and inorganic ions
Authors: Wang Haibo , Zhang Qi , Gomez Mario Alberto , Jia Yongfeng , Yao Shuhua , Li Shifeng
Published: June 2022

In sediments, cadmium (Cd) contamination is an increasingly severe global problem facing environmental protection and human health. The mobility and biological toxicity of Cd are related to its chemical speciation. In this work, the Xihe River in Shenyang, China, was the representative of investigation to study the effect of grain size, pH, organic acids, inorganic anions, and cations on the chemical fractions of Cd in sediments by using the European Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) sequential extraction procedure. The result indicated that fine grains (< 63 μm, 0.57%) presented a relatively higher proportion of the oxidizable fraction Cd in the sediments, while the coarse grains (>250 μm, 78.02%) exhibited the more exchangeable/acid-soluble fraction (78.14 wt.%). The amount of Cd released from the sediment decreased dramatically with the pH from 2-6 and leveled off in the pH range of 8-10. The pH significantly influenced the more mobile fraction (Exchangeable/Acid soluble fraction (F1) and Reducible fraction (F2)), meaning that Cd can be a big-source of danger for the upper water environment. The influence of organic acid on the mobility of Cd in sediments followed the order: ethylenediaminetetraacetate acid (EDTA) > citric acid (CA) > tartaric acid (TA)> oxalic acid (OA). The impact of SO42-, Cl-, CO32- and NO3- was not evident in the release of Cd from the sediment. Besides, Ca(II) and Mg(II) had a major influence on F1 of Cd, and Al(III) and Fe(III) affected various chemical fractions of Cd. The study outcomes provide fundamental knowledge for understanding the mobility and potential ecotoxicological impacts of Cd in sediment.
De novo genome assembly and genome skims reveal LTRs dominate the genome of a limestone endemic Mountainsnail (Oreohelix idahoensis)
Authors: Linscott T. Mason , González-González Andrea , Hirano Takahiro , Parent Christine
Published: June 2022

Background
Calcareous outcrops, rocky areas composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), often host a diverse, specialized, and threatened biomineralizing fauna. Despite the repeated evolution of physiological and morphological adaptations to colonize these mineral rich substrates, there is a lack of genomic resources for calcareous rock endemic species. This has hampered our ability to understand the genomic mechanisms underlying calcareous rock specialization and manage these threatened species.
Results
Here, we present a new draft genome assembly of the threatened limestone endemic land snail Oreohelix idahoensis and genome skim data for two other Oreohelix species. The O. idahoensis genome assembly (scaffold N50: 404.19 kb; 86.6% BUSCO genes) is the largest (~ 5.4 Gb) and most repetitive mollusc genome assembled to date (85.74% assembly size). The repetitive landscape was unusually dominated by an expansion of long terminal repeat (LTR) transposable elements (57.73% assembly size) which have shaped the evolution genome size, gene composition through retrotransposition of host genes, and ectopic recombination. Genome skims revealed repeat content is more than 2–3 fold higher in limestone endemic O. idahoensis compared to non-calcareous Oreohelix species. Gene family size analysis revealed stress and biomineralization genes have expanded significantly in the O. idahoensis genome.
Conclusions
Hundreds of threatened land snail species are endemic to calcareous rock regions but there are very few genomic resources available to guide their conservation or determine the genomic architecture underlying CaCO3 resource specialization. Our study provides one of the first high quality draft genomes of a calcareous rock endemic land snail which will serve as a foundation for the conservation genomics of this threatened species and for other groups. The high proportion and activity of LTRs in the O. idahoensis genome is unprecedented in molluscan genomics and sheds new light how transposable element content can vary across molluscs. The genomic resources reported here will enable further studies of the genomic mechanisms underlying calcareous rock specialization and the evolution of transposable element content across molluscs
Asymmetry in the thermal sensitivity of predator and prey performance may explain T-S and Bergmann’s rules in zooplankton
Authors: Maszczyk Piotr , Babkiewicz Ewa , Wilczyński Wojciech , Gliwicz Z. Maciej , Leniowski Konrad , Zebrowski Marcin
Published: June 2022

Numerous studies have demonstrated an inverse correlation between ambient temperature and body size in various ectotherms. This pattern could be explained by the greater temperature effect on the predator’s foraging rate and, in turn, on the mortality rate in comparison to the birth rate in prey populations. While a number of studies have revealed that the latter effect is close to the one anticipated by the Q10 = 2 assumption, the hypothesis would be confirmed if the effect of temperature on the foraging rate of the predator was greater than Q10 = 2. To test this hypothesis, we compared the capture rate and SMR of two fish species (rudd and Malabar danio) and several parameters characterising the mobility of the fish and their planktonic prey (Daphnia) at different temperatures. Although the Q10 for SMR was only around 2, the capture rate increased with rising temperatures much more than expected from the Q10 = 2 assumption, which confirmed our hypothesis. The most likely explanation seems to be a much greater increase of mobility and, in turn, reaction field volume of the fish than of its planktonic prey at elevated temperatures, which improves its attack rate more than predicted by the Q10 = 2 assumption.
Molecular identification of Lingyun Baihao wild and cultivated tea through genome-wide sequencing
Authors: He Shuang , Wang Xiaohu , Yin Meng , Ye Jingping , Meng Jianzong , liqin zhou
Published: June 2022

The tea plants have been one of the most widely consumed and oldest nonalcoholic beverage crops in the world. Lingyun Baihao tea plants are unique species and widely distribute in Guangxi. It is well known that aroma usually determine the quality of tea. In recent years, molecular identification has been employed in the tea plant at the genetic level. However, the association of aroma loss issues to genetic diversities between wild and cultivated tea plants is not clear. Here, we identified 112,938,224 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 10,736,211 insertions/deletions (InDels) for the tea plants through the whole genome sequencing technology. Both SNPs and InDels have certain characteristics in the tea genome, which transition in SNPs type distributes wildly comparing with transversion and single base variation has absolute advantage in InDels. These markers demonstrated that DNA polymorphisms and high diversity. Collectively, we confirmed that the loss of aroma might due to genetic differences at the molecular level between wild and cultivated tea plants, which will be valuable resources for further genetic researches of Lingyun Baihao tea plant.
DNA methylation profile in beef cattle is influenced by additive genetics and age
Authors: Ribeiro Andre Mauric F. , Sanglard Leticia P. , Wijesena Hiruni R. , Ciobanu Daniel C. , Horvath Steve , Spangler Matthew L.
Published: June 2022

DNA methylation (DNAm) has been considered a promising indicator of biological age in mammals and could be useful to increase the accuracy of phenotypic prediction in livestock. The objectives of this study were to estimate the heritability and age effects of site-specific DNAm (DNAm level) and cumulative DNAm across all sites (DNAm load) in beef cattle. Blood samples were collected from cows ranging from 217 to 3,192 days (0.6 to 8.7 years) of age (n = 136). All animals were genotyped, and DNAm was obtained using the Infinium array HorvathMammalMethylChip40. Genetic parameters for DNAm were obtained from an animal model based on the genomic relationship matrix, including the fixed effects of age and breed composition. Heritability estimates of DNAm levels ranged from 0.18 to 0.72, with a similar average across all regions and chromosomes. Heritability estimate of DNAm load was 0.45. The average age effect on DNAm level varied among genomic regions. The DNAm level across the genome increased with age in the promoter and 5' UTR and decreased in the exonic, intronic, 3’ UTR, and intergenic regions. In addition, DNAm level increased with age in regions enriched in CpG and decreased in regions deficient in CpG. Results suggest DNAm profiles are influenced by both genetics and the environmental effect of age in beef cattle.
Acute renal intracystic hemorrhage in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Suwabe Tatsuya , Ubara Yoshifumi , Oba Yuki , Mizuno Hiroki , Ikuma Daisuke , Yamanouchi Masayuki , Sekine Akinari , Tanaka Kiho , Hasegawa Eiko , Hoshino Junnichi , Sawa Naoki
Published: June 2022

Renal cyst bleeding is a frequent problem in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). However, there remains minimal information concerning its frequency, causative factors, and effects on ADPKD progression. We investigated the total volume of acute renal intracystic hemorrhage (ARIH) and its relationship to total kidney volume (TKV) in patients with ADPKD on dialysis; we evaluated factors potentially associated with ARIH. We enrolled 199 patients who received renal transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) from 2014 to 2018 (107 men, 92 women; mean age: 59.1 ± 8.6 years). The median volume of ARIH was 97.3 ml (interquartile range: 36.6–261.7 ml). Multivariate analysis revealed that body weight and ARIH volume were significantly associated with TKV; age, body mass index, smoking, cerebral vascular disease, serum alkaline phosphatase, and TKV were significantly associated with ARIH; and sex, age, dialysis vintage, TKV, and ARIH volume were significantly associated with the number of microcoils required to achieve renal TAE. ARIH was common among ADPKD patients on dialysis; it was significantly associated with TKV. ARIH was greater in younger patients with greater renal artery luminal volume. In conclusion, renal cyst bleeding and renal artery blood flow volume may synergistically accelerate the enlargement of polycystic kidneys.
Photobiomodulation by low-power laser irradiation promotes odontogenic differentiation of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth
Authors: Wang Ziting , Tian Tian , Chen Leyi , Zhang Chuhan , Zhong Ni , Zheng Xiao , Wu Buling , Xu Wen'an
Published: June 2022

Purpose
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation (PBM) on stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) odontogenic differentiation and biomineralization potential at various different energy fluences.
Methods
One control group (without irradiation) and four testing groups (irradiation at 0.5, 5.0 and 10.0 J/cm2 with 10s exposure time) were designed. Cell viability of SHED in response to varying energy fluences of PBM was investigated by the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Biomineralization abilitiy of different groups was determined by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining. The qRT-PCR and western blotting were conducted to measure the levels of genes and proteins related to SHED odontogenic differentiation.
Results
PBM at 0.5 J/cm2 significantly promoted SHED proliferation compared to the control group. In addition, PBM at 5.0 J/cm2 significantly upregulated the expression of osteo-/odontogenic genes including runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), ALP, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and dentin matrix acidic phosphoprotein 1 (DMP1). Moreover, The PBM at 5.0 J/cm2 modulate the components of the BMP/Smad and Wnt signaling pathway involves in BMP2, p-Smad 1/5/9, p-β-catenin and RUNX2.
Conclusion
PBM could trigger SHED odontogenic differentiation and biomineralization in a dose-dependent manner through the activation of the components of the BMP/Smad and Wnt signaling pathway. These results reveal a promising strategy for application of PBM in for vital pulp therapies of deciduous teeth.
Acceptance, Hesitancy, and Refusal in anti-COVID-19 vaccination. A cluster analysis aiming at the typology behind these three concepts
Authors: Cristea Darie , Ilie Dragoș-Georgian , Constantinescu Claudia , Fîrțală Valeriu
Published: June 2022

Most sociological studies on the intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 in the last year have divided the public into people who want to be vaccinated, people who are against vaccination and hesitant. Opinion polls also described how the public relates to specific motivations for agreement, refusal or hesitation about vaccination.Our study proposes a typology of attitude towards vaccination against covid constructed by cluster analysis, based on a battery of questions that indicate the attitude of the subjects towards this vaccination on several dimensions.The questions were deliberately placed by the authors of the study in a nationally representative opinion poll for Romania, in order to collect these data and to study the resulting typology.
Sponge Campus Design by Incorporating Vertical Design and LID Facilities: A Case Study in Eastern China
Authors: Fei Yiming , Fu Dafang , Singh Rajendra Prasad , Shang Qingyu
Published: June 2022

With the rapid advancement of sponge city infrastructure in China, the concept and construction of sponge campus have received wide attention. Implementation of a sponge campus incorporated with low impact development (LID) facilities could effectively reduce runoff and promote rainwater recycling in case of rainfall occurrence, provide resilience and improve stability against climate change for both system itself and adjacent regions. However, most of the studies on sponge campus in China are focused on the design and evaluation of college campuses, while little emphasis has been put on elementary and secondary schools where the requirement and characteristics of target users are totally different. In this paper, designing concepts regarding vertical design and application of LID for sponge campus for elementary and secondary schools were given based on engineering practice. Then a typical secondary school campus in Kunshan, China was taken as an example, and simulation was conducted on recurrence period of 1 year and 20 years using stormwater management model (SWMM). The results showed that, under the rainfall intensity with a recurrence period of 1 year and 20 years, the peak flow was reduced 46.8% and 59.0%, respectively, while the total inflow was reduced 25.4% and 33.9%, respectively. Under recurrence period of 1 year, this vertically-designed campus with LID facilities provided 15.13% water storage capacity for the neighboring plot with only 9.16% of the plot area. This new way of vertical design coupled with LID facilities can help to create a much more ecological, safe and beautiful school campus.
Marker based monitoring for virulence distribution of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato causing bacterial speck diseased of tomato in Egypt
Authors: El-Fatah Bahaa E.S. Abd , Abo-Elyousr Kamal A.M , Mahmoud Amer F. , Imran Muhammad
Published: June 2022

The bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato is the most important pathogen causing bacterial speck disease of tomato. Present study was conducted to investigate and characterize the population diversity of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato pathogen collected from infected tomato growing regions of Egypt. Significant variation was observed among the five isolates which showed significant level of virulence. Genetic variation among the isolates was investigated by PCR approach for the amplification of hrpZ gene using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RLFP), sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP), and inters simple sequence repeats (ISSR). The length of amplified product for ITS1 region was 810 bp whereas for hrpZ gene was 536bp with primer pairs (1406-f/23S-r) and (MM5-F, MM5-R) respectively. The restriction analysis of amplified regions “ITS” and hrpZ by using 5 and 4 endonucleases respectively, showed slight variation among the bacterial isolates. The results of RAPD, ISSR and SRAP showed higher polymorphism (60.52%) between the isolates which assist for their successful characterization by unique and specific positive markers, based on geographical distribution, origin and virulence intensity. The results of this study suggested that the use of molecular approach can provide successful and valuable information for differentiation and classification of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato in future.
Identification and whole-genome sequencing analysis of Vibrio vulnificus strains causing pearl gentian grouper disease in China
Authors: Wu Zun , Wu Yating , Gao Haofeng , He Xuexin , Yao Qiang , Yang Zhanglei , Zhou Jinyi , Ji Linting , Gao Jinwei , Jia Xuying , Dou Yong , Wang Xiaoyu , Shao Peng
Published: June 2022

Vibrio vulnificus is a pathogenic bacterium that causes disease in marine fish, affecting fish farming and human health worldwide. In May 2021, in the Bohai Bay region, a disease broke out in commercially farmed pearl gentian grouper (♀Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × ♂Epinephelus lanceolatus), causing huge economic losses. The scales of the diseased fish fell off, water was accumulated in their abdomens, and their tissues and organs were damaged. V. vulnificus biotype 2 has been reported in eels and other marine fish, but it is less reported in pearl gentian grouper. In this study, the pathogenic strain isolated from diseased fish was identified as V. vulnificus EPL 0201 biotype 2 on the basis of physiological and biochemical characteristics and the results of 16S rRNA gene and gyrB sequencing, virulence gene detection, and recursive infection experiments. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the pathogenicity and drug resistance of this strain, whole-genome sequencing was performed. Whole-genome analysis showed that the gene map of this strain was complete. The Virulence Factor Database annotation results showed that this strain had the key virulence factor genes vvhA and rtxA, which cause host disease. In addition, this strain had genes conferring resistance against cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, and sulfonamides. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing confirmed the presence of these resistance genes identified in the genome. The results of this study show that V. vulnificus EPL 0201 biotype 2 is a multi-drug resistant strain with high pathogenicity.
Metabolomic Profile in Adolescents with PCOS vs. Transgender Males on Testosterone
Authors: Nokoff Natalie Jessica , Lo Jaclyn S , Alexander Keisha , D’Alessandro Angelo , Severn Cameron , Staggs Syd , Zeitler Philip S , Cree-Green Melanie
Published: June 2022

Background: Although there are sex differences in metabolomic profiles, little is known about the effects of testosterone on the metabolomic profile of people with a female sex. We evaluated the effect of endogenous versus exogenous testosterone on the plasma metabolomic profile. Methods: Participants included 20 individuals with a female sex designated at birth. Ten transgender male (TGM) adolescents [age 15.5 + 0.9 years, BMI percentile 74% (32, 94)] were evaluated at baseline and after one month of exogenous testosterone treatment (TGM-1M). TGM-1M were compared to 10 BMI-matched cisgender female adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS, age 15.8 + 1.8 years, BMI 85% (78, 98)]. All participants had fasting laboratory evaluation and targeted fasting plasma metabolomic analysis. Results: There were no significant differences in metabolomics after 1 month of testosterone therapy in the TGM group. There were significant differences in the targeted metabolomic analysis between the adolescents with PCOS and TGM-1M. Eight bile acids, 5 fatty acids and 2 amino acids were higher in the PCOS group (fold change>2) compared to TGM-1M. Five amino acids, 2 acylcarnitines, and one fatty acid were higher in TGM-1M compared to participants with PCOS. Participants with PCOS had more signs of metabolic syndrome, including higher waist/hip ratio, systolic blood pressure, and dyslipidemia compared to TGM-1M.Conclusions: Long-term endogenous testosterone exposure in PCOS is associated with an altered metabolic profile and changes in bile acid and fatty acid metabolism relative to short-term exogenous exposure in TGM-1M, suggesting other features, besides testosterone are responsible for the metabolic features of PCOS.
Retrospective evaluation of satisfaction levels of completely edentulous patients treated with implant supported prosthesis
Authors: Demir Esin , ozel gulsum , inan özgür , dolanmaz dogan
Published: June 2022

Aim: The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare patient satisfaction levels in edentulous patients treated with implant­ supported overdentures and/or implant supported fixed prostheses. Material and Methods: A study population of 98 patients was identified. Patients seperated into three treatment types. Group I comprised 36 patients treated with implant supported maxillomandibular fixed restorations while group II comprised 43 patients treated with implant supported overdentures. Group III comprised 19 patients treated implant supported overdenture for mandible and fixed prosthesis for maxilla. A questionnaire consisting of specific issues about masticatory performance, aesthetics and comfort were used to evaluate treatment outcomes. Results: The sample comprised 59 female and 39 male patients with a mean age of 67.6 years (range between 40 and 78). The patients in Group II were significantly less satisfied with masticatory function, comfort and social ability. No significant differences were found for satisfaction as compared to educational status and economic status. Conclusions: It was found that treatment design of that implant supported fixed prosthesis on maxilla and implant overdenture on mandible provided comparable level of satisfaction for edentulous patients. Implant supported fixed prosthesis for maxilla and implant supported overdenture for mandible serve practical alternative to satisfy patients especially in mandibular atrophy patients who would demand extensive surgeries.
Performance of several types of beta-binomial models in comparison to standard approaches for meta-analyses with very few studies
Authors: Felsch Moritz , Beckmann Lars , Bender Ralf , Kuss Oliver , Skipka Guido , Mathes Tim
Published: June 2022

BackgroundMeta-analyses are used to summarize the results of several studies to a specific research question. Standard methods for meta-analyses, namely inverse variance random effects models have unfavourable properties if only very few (2-4) studies are available. Therefore, alternative meta-analytic methods are needed. In case of binary data, the “common-rho” beta-binomial model has shown good results in situations with spare data or few studies. The major concern of this model is that it ignores the fact that each treatment arm is paired with a respective control arm from the same study. Thus, the randomisation to a study arm of a specific study is disrespected, which may lead to compromised estimates of the treatment effect. Therefore, we extended this model to a version that respects randomisation. The aim of this simulation study was to compare “common-rho” beta-binomial model and several other beta-binomial models to standard meta-analyses models including generalised linear mixed models and several inverse variance random effects models.MethodsWe conducted a simulation study in which beta-binomial models and various standard meta-analysis methods were compared. The design of the simulation aimed to consider meta-analytic situations occurring in practice. ResultsIn summary, no method performed well in scenarios with only 2 studies in the random effects scenario. In this situation, a fixed effect model or a qualitative summary of the study results may be preferable. In scenarios with 3 or 4 studies the “common-rho” beta-binomial model performed at least slightly better than other models, whereas performance was not improved by the beta-binomial model respecting randomisation. ConclusionThe “common-rho” beta-binomial appears to be a good option for meta-analyses of very few studies. Because residual concerns about the consequences of disrespecting the randomisation may still exist, we recommend a sensitivity analysis with a standard meta-analysis method that respects randomisation.
Assessing the performance of the satellite-based precipitation products (SPPs) in the data-sparse Himalayan terrain
Authors: Kumar Sonu , Amarnath Giriraj , Ghosh Surajit , Park Edward , Baghel Triambak , Jingyu Wang , Belbase Devesh
Published: June 2022

Located on the south-facing slope of the Himalayas, Nepal receives intense, long-lasting precipitation during the Asian summer monsoon, making Nepal one of the most susceptible countries to flood and landslide hazards in the region. However, sparse gauging and irregular measurement constrain the vulnerability assessments of floods and landslides which rely highly on the accuracy of precipitation. Therefore, this study evaluates the performance of Satellite-based Precipitation Products (SPPs) in the Himalayas region by comparing different datasets and identifying the best alternative of gauge-based precipitation for hydro-meteorological applications. We compared eight SPPs using statistical metrics and then used the Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) technique to rank them. Secondly, we assessed the hydrological utility of SPPs by simulating through the GR4J hydrological model. We found a high POD (0.60–0.80) for all SPPs except CHIRPS and PERSIANN; however, a high CC (0.20–0.40) only for CHIRPS, IMERG_Final, and CMORPH. Based on MCDM, CMORPH and IMERG_Final rank first and second. While SPPs could not simulate daily discharge (NSE < 0.28), they performed better for monthly streamflow (NSE > 0.54). Overall, this study recommends CMORPH and IMERG_Final and improves the understanding of data quality to better manage hydrological disasters in the data-sparse Himalayas. This study framework can also be used in other Himalayan regions to systematically rank and identify the most suitable datasets for hydro-meteorological applications.
Evaluation of Base Slding Response and Effective Slab Width in the Ten-story Tests
Authors: Kabeyasawa Toshikazu , Kabeyasawa Toshimi , Xiongjie Cheng , Kang Jae-do , Nagae Takuya , Kajiwara Koichi
Published: June 2022

The ten-story full-scale shaking table tests conducted in 2015 and 2018 are simulated by analytical models such as being used in design practice or proposed in recent research and compared with the test data to simulate 1) the effective slab width on the beam capacities and 2) the base sliding and uplifting behavior. Three-dimensional pushover analysis used in the design practice of Japan was applied for the shake table tests with fixed base by varying the effective slab width on the beam to simulate the load-displacement relations and the lateral load carrying capacity in the tests. The effectiveness of slab and transverse beams was also evaluated in detail by the analysis with Timoshenko fiber beam element model applied partially for an outer span end in the wall direction. The analytical strains of slab reinforcement at the outer span end were compared with the measured in the tests. Three-dimensional nonlinear dynamic frame analyses with sliding base foundation models were carried out to simulate the responses of the superstructure and the sliding drift. Different types of simple base models were used where the two-way sliding and axial-shear interaction were considered at the center of the specimen while the horizontal base rotation was neglected. The response reduction of the superstructure owing to the sliding base could be approximated by either of base models, while still large discrepancy was observed in the sliding drifts among the test and the analyses.
A Low-Cost Physiological Monitoring Interface for Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Lin Ke-Feng , Lin Shih-Sung , Chen Ping-Nan
Published: June 2022

Background:During the COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in 2020, many patients were treated in isolation wards because of the high infectivity and long incubation period of COVID-19. Therefore, monitoring systems have become critical to patient care and to safeguard medical professional safety. Objective:The user interface is very important to the surveillance system; therefore, we use web technology to develop a system that can create an interface based on user needs. When the surveillance scene needs to be changed, the surveillance location can be changed at any time, effectively reducing costs and time required, so that patients can achieve timely and appropriate goals of treatment.Methods:ZigBee was employed to develop a monitoring system for intensive care units (ICUs). Unlike conventional GUIs, the proposed GUI enables monitoring of various aspects of a patient, and the monitoring interface can be modified according to user needs. A simulated ICU environment monitoring system is designed to test the effectiveness of the system. The simulated environment and monitoring nodes were set up at positions consistent with the actual clinical environments to measure the time required to switch between monitoring scenes or targets on the GUI. Results:A low-cost system that can construct ZigBee-simulated graphical monitoring interfaces on demand was proposed in this study. The system can effectively overcome the limitations of conventional design methods for monitoring interfaces.Conclusion:This system can be used to simultaneously monitor the basic physiological data of numerous patients, enabling nursing professionals to instantly determine patient status and provide appropriate treatments. The proposed monitoring system can be applied to remote medical care after official adoption.
Screening and characterization of vaginal Lactobacillus as probiotic candidates
Authors: Zhu Chennuo , Huang Baoqi , Yu Changhao , Che Yuqing , Wu Dan , Wu Yue , Song Ping , Zhao Ye
Published: June 2022

Lactobacillus iners is often associated with vaginal dysbiosis and bacterial vaginosis (BV), which are risk factors for adverse gynecological and obstetric outcomes. Lactobacillus strains from the vagina of healthy women were screened for inhibitory activity against L. iners. Four active strains were identified, whereby L. gasseri H87 exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against L. iners, followed by L. rhamnosus H23. All four strains inhibited the growth of potential pathogens of the gastrointestinal, urogenital and reproductive tract, and were capable of co-aggregating with the cells of the tested pathogens to varying degrees. H23 and H78 were viable under in vitro conditions simulating the vaginal, gastric and intestinal environment, with survival rates > 80%. The four strains exhibited good auto-aggregation of more than 30%. H23 and H87 also exhibited good co-aggregation with Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli, with values of more than 30%. Safety assessment showed that the four strains had the usual antibiotic susceptibility profile and did not produce hemolysins. Considering that H87 exhibited a better performance as a probiotic, we investigated the antibacterial substance produced by H87, and identified a bacteriocin with 6.5 kDa. Based on strain characteristics and beneficial properties, we believe that H87 is promising candidate for human trials to confirm its ability to prevent/treat vaginal dysbiosis and maintain a healthy vaginal ecosystem.
Risk Factors for COVID-19 Mortality in Pediatric Populations: A Scoping Review
Authors: Wijaya Jane Theophillia , Varshney Karan , Browning Samuel Dean , Fatima Syeda Zaheer , Shahrin Lubaba
Published: June 2022

Background Pediatric populations are generally considered to be at a lower risk of mortality from COVID-19 infection in comparison to adult populations. Regardless, a significant number of deaths from COVID-19 have been reported in pediatric populations internationally. We conducted a scoping review of the literature assessing the risk factors for COVID-19 mortality among pediatric patients. Methods A scoping review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, medRxiv, and WHO Coronavirus Database. There were no restrictions placed for searches based on date. Papers that were published in English, included at least one pediatric death from COVID-19, and described at least one risk factor for the death and/or clinical presentation of the child(ren) were eligible for inclusion. The pediatric population was defined as children aged 18 years and younger. Results Searches generated a total of 5787 papers and, 78 papers were eligible for analysis. There was a pooled total of 837 pediatric deaths. The presence of at least one comorbidity was a major risk factor; malignancies, cardiovascular diseases and overweight/obesity were the most frequently associated with mortality. The development of Pediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (PMIS) was also consistently demonstrated to be a risk factor. Common clinical complications associated with pediatric COVID-19 infection resulting in mortality were sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and acute kidney injury. Conclusions Our review has identified prominent risk factors for mortality from COVID-19 infection amongst pediatric patients. Knowledge of these risk factors can assist prognostication and clinical decision-making for severe pediatric COVID-19 infections. Our findings will help shape public health guidelines and guide new treatment regimens for high-risk individuals.
Association of Lipid Composition and Unsaturated Fatty Acids of VLDL with Atrial Remodeling in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Lee Hsiang-Chun , Cheng Wei-Chung , Ma Wen-Lung , Lin Yu-Hsun , Shin Shyi-Jang
Published: June 2022

Background: Subjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS) commonly have atrial remodeling, which indicates a risk for atrial fibrillation. Objective: This study determined MetS-related changes in lipid components in very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), which has been shown causing atrial remodeling, and the effect of statins on these changes, and the correlation between atrial remodeling and VLDL lipid compositions. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 12 non-MetS and 27 sex- and age-matched MetS subjects. Fourteen patients with MetS (MetS­–off statin) discontinued statin therapy 14 days before the study, while the remaining 13 remained on it (MetS–on statin). The VLDLs were isolated and processed for mass-based lipid profiling. Lipidomic analyses were performed and associated with atrial remodeling markers measured using standard echocardiography and electrocardiography. Results: Compared with the VLDL components of the non-MetS group, glucosyl/galactosyl ceramide, lyso-phosphatidylcholine, lyso-phosphatidylethanolamine, and triglycerides were enriched in the MetS–off statin group. The statin therapy attenuated all abnormally abundant lipid classes in MetS, except for triglycerides. In addition, lyso-phosphatidylcholine, lyso-phosphatidylethanolamine, and triglycerides were significantly correlated with atrial dilatation, and the latter two were also correlated with the PR interval. Enrichment of double bonds, which indicates unsaturated fatty acids, was also significantly correlated with atrial remodeling, and P-wave duration. Conclusion: This study suggests that the pathological lipid payload of MetS-VLDL may contribute to atrial remodeling in patients.
Graded compression stockings significantly decreased the risk of deep vein thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Fu Kai , Qin Jianghui , Yao Yao , Zhen Liming , Zhang Yu , Wang Yexian , Shen Ying , Chen Dongyang , Jiang Qing
Published: June 2022

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of GCS on decreasing the incidence of postoperative DVT in patients after primary total knee arthroplasty.Method: A total of 226 patients who received primary TKA in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from Jan 1, 2018, to Jan 1, 2021 were enrolled. Depending on the presence of postoperative DVT, we divided the patients into 2 groups: the non-DVT group (n=192) and the DVT group (n=34). Parameters were compared using χ2 or t test between two groups. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine risk factors.Results: The incidence of postoperative DVT was 15% (n=34) in patients after TKA. Age, preoperative D-dimer and GCS usage were all associated with postoperative DVT. Compared to the non-DVT group, there was a significant increase in age (71.06±7.25 vs. 67.82±7.61, p=0.022) and preoperative D-dimer (1.51±2.21 vs. 0.92±1.39, p=0,042) in the DVT group. Moreover, the rate of GCS usage in the DVT group was significantly lower than that in the non-DVT group (23.5% vs. 48.4%, p=0.007). After adjusting for age, gender, preoperative D-dimer, and GCS usage by binary logistic regression analysis, GCS usage (OR = 2.950, 𝑃 = 0.013, 95% CI [1.261-6.901]) was an independent risk factor for postoperative DVT in patients after TKA.Conclusion: The overall prevalence of DVT was 15% in the current study, with 20.8% in non-GCS usage patients and 7.9% in GCS usage patients. GCS usage was an independent risk factor and could significantly decrease DVT risk in patients after TKA.