bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence, Incidence and Associates of Pulmonary Hypertension Complicating Type 2 Diabetes: Insights from the Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase 2 and National Echocardiographic Database of Australia
Authors: Nundlall Nishant , Playford David , Strange Geoff , Davis Timothy M. E. , Davis Wendy A.
Published: September 2021

There is a paucity of epidemiologic data examining the relationship between pulmonary hypertension (PH) and diabetes. The aim of this study was to determine prevalence, incidence and associates of PH complicating type 2 diabetes. Data from 1430 participants (mean age 65.5 years, 51.5% males) in the Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase 2 (FDS2) were linked with the National Echocardiographic Database of Australia (NEDA) to ascertain the prevalence and incidence of PH (estimated right ventricular systolic pressure (eRVSP) >30 mmHg as a new suggested threshold or the conventional >40 mmHg) over a 12-year period. PH prevalence in FDS2 was compared with that in NEDA overall and a geographically close sub-population. Multivariable analyses identified associates of prevalent/incident PH in the FDS2 cohort. Of 275 FDS2 patients (19.2%) with pre-entry echocardiography, 90 had eRVSP >30 mmHg and 35 had eRVSP >40 mmHg (prevalences 32.7% (95% CI 27.3–38.7%) and 12.7% (9.1–17.4%), respectively), rates that are 35–50% greater than national/local NEDA general population estimates. Moreover, 70 (5.0%) and 123 (9.2%) FDS2 participants were identified with incident PH at the respective eRVSP thresholds (incidence (95% CI) 7.6 (6.0–9.7) and 14.2 (11.8–17.0)/1000 person-years), paralleling data from recognised high-risk conditions such as systemic sclerosis. The baseline plasma N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration was the strongest independent associate of prevalent/incident PH. Approximately 1 in 8 people with type 2 diabetes have PH using the eRVSP >40 mmHg threshold. Its presence should be considered as part of regular clinical assessment of individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Successful Reversal of Severe Tachycardia-Induced Cardiomyopathy with Cardiogenic Shock by Urgent Rhythm or Rate Control: Only Rhythm and Rate Matter
Authors: Volle Kim , Delmas Clément , Rollin Anne , Voglimacci-Stephanopoli Quentin , Mondoly Pierre , Cariou Eve , Mandel Franck , Delasnerie Hubert , Beneyto Maxime , Galinier Michel , Lavie-Badie Yoan , Carrié Didier , Roncalli Jerôme , Lairez Olivier , Fournier Pauline , Biendel Caroline , Maury Philippe
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives Severe forms of Tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TIC) with cardiogenic shock are not well described so far, and efficiency of catheter ablation in this setting is unknown. Methods We retrospectively included consecutive patients admitted to the Intensive Cardiac Care Unit for acute heart failure with cardiogenic shock associated with atrial arrhythmia and managed by ablation. Result Fourteen patients were included, each with cardiogenic shock and two needing the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Successful ablation was performed in the acute setting or over the following weeks. Two patients experienced relapses of arrhythmias and were treated by new ablation procedures. At 7.5 ± 5 months follow-up, all patient were alive with stable sinus rhythm. The left ventricular Ejection Fraction dramatically improved (21 vs. 54%, p = 0.001) as well as the end-diastolic left ventricular diameter (61 vs. 51 mm, p = 0.01) and NYHA class (class IV in all vs. median 1, p = 0.002). Conclusion Restoration and maintenance of sinus rhythm in severe TIC with cardiogenic shock and atrial arrhythmias lead to a major increase or normalization of LVEF, reduction of ventricular dimensions, and improvement in functional status. Ablation is efficient in long-term maintenance of sinus rhythm and may be proposed early in refractory cases.
Serum Uric Acid Is a Weak Independent Predictor of Overall Survival in Older Adults
Authors: Winder Mateusz , Owczarek Aleksander J. , Mossakowska Małgorzata , Holecki Michał , Broczek Katarzyna , Grodzicki Tomasz , Zdrojewski Tomasz , Chudek Jerzy
Published: September 2021

Hyperuricemia accompanies many pathologies that contribute to overall death rate. The population-based multifaceted study of older adults in Poland made it possible to assess the effect of serum uric acid (SUA) on overall mortality. The PolSenior study performed between 2007–2011 included 3926 participants aged 65 years or above (mean age 79 ± 9 years) not treated with xanthin oxidase inhibitors (XOI) who were stratified by sex and SUA concentration into six subgroups increasing by 1 mg/dL. In 2019, survival data were retrieved from the population register. The crude risk of death was significantly higher in men and women with SUA ≥ 7 mg/dL. After adjustment to statistically significant factors, SUA remained a risk factor of death in men with SUA ≥ 8 mg/dL only, potentially due to the limited number of women with high SUA levels. Furthermore, age, heart failure, diabetes, and activities of daily living ≤ 4 pts were identified as factors increasing mortality risk regardless of sex. The risk of death increased also with smoking, past stroke, COPD/asthma, and hs-CRP > 3 mg/dL for men; and eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, mini nutritional assessment ≤ 7 pts, and loop diuretics use for women. Mild hyperuricemia is a significant health status marker and an independent risk factor for overall mortality in older Caucasians not receiving XOI. Increased mortality is mostly limited to subjects with SUA levels ≥ 8 mg/dL.
Preliminary Study on the Diagnostic Performance of a Deep Learning System for Submandibular Gland Inflammation Using Ultrasonography Images
Authors: Kise Yoshitaka , Kuwada Chiaki , Ariji Yoshiko , Naitoh Munetaka , Ariji Eiichiro
Published: September 2021

This study was performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of deep learning systems using ultrasonography (USG) images of the submandibular glands (SMGs) in three different conditions: obstructive sialoadenitis, Sjögren’s syndrome (SjS), and normal glands. Fifty USG images with a confirmed diagnosis of obstructive sialoadenitis, 50 USG images with a confirmed diagnosis of SjS, and 50 USG images with no SMG abnormalities were included in the study. The training group comprised 40 obstructive sialoadenitis images, 40 SjS images, and 40 control images, and the test group comprised 10 obstructive sialoadenitis images, 10 SjS images, and 10 control images for deep learning analysis. The performance of the deep learning system was calculated and compared between two experienced radiologists. The sensitivity of the deep learning system in the obstructive sialoadenitis group, SjS group, and control group was 55.0%, 83.0%, and 73.0%, respectively, and the total accuracy was 70.3%. The sensitivity of the two radiologists was 64.0%, 72.0%, and 86.0%, respectively, and the total accuracy was 74.0%. This study revealed that the deep learning system was more sensitive than experienced radiologists in diagnosing SjS in USG images of two case groups and a group of healthy subjects in inflammation of SMGs.
Occurrence and Risk Factors for Macular Edema in Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-Associated Uveitis
Authors: Tappeiner Christoph , Bae Han Sol , Rothaus Kai , Walscheid Karoline , Heiligenhaus Arnd
Published: September 2021

Purpose: To analyze occurrence and risk factors for macular edema (ME) in juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis (JIA-U). Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients with JIA-U at a tertiary referral uveitis center between 2000 and 2019. Epidemiological data and clinical findings before ME onset were evaluated. Results: Out of 245 patients, ME developed in 41 (18%) of the 228 JIA-U patients for whom data documentation was complete during the follow-up (mean 4.0 ± 3.8 years). Risk factors (univariable logistic regression analysis) at baseline for subsequent ME onset included older age at initial documentation at institution (hazard ratio, HR 1.19, p < 0.0001), longer duration of uveitis at initial documentation (HR 1.17, p < 0.0001), worse best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA; HR 2.49, p < 0.0001), lower intraocular pressure (IOP; HR 0.88, p < 0.01), band keratopathy (HR 2.29, p < 0.01), posterior synechiae (HR 2.55, p < 0.01), epiretinal membrane formation (HR 6.19, p < 0.0001), optic disc swelling (HR 2.81, p < 0.01), and cataract (HR 4.24, p < 0.0001). Older age at initial documentation at institution (HR 1.55, p < 0.001), worse BCVA (HR 28.56, p < 0.001), and higher laser-flare photometry (LFM) values (HR 1.003, p = 0.01) were independent risk factors for ME manifestation. Patients with ME revealed significant changes in BCVA, LFM, and IOP and new optic disc swelling at 6 and 3 months before ME onset compared to timepoint of ME occurrence (p < 0.05, each). Conclusion: ME is a common complication of JIA-U. Demographic risk factors and courses of IOP, BCVA, and LFM may indicate patients at risk for ME onset.
Spatially Coherent Clustering Based on Orthogonal Nonnegative Matrix Factorization
Authors: Fernsel Pascal
Published: September 2021

Classical approaches in cluster analysis are typically based on a feature space analysis. However, many applications lead to datasets with additional spatial information and a ground truth with spatially coherent classes, which will not necessarily be reconstructed well by standard clustering methods. Motivated by applications in hyperspectral imaging, we introduce in this work clustering models based on Orthogonal Nonnegative Matrix Factorization (ONMF), which include an additional Total Variation (TV) regularization procedure on the cluster membership matrix to enforce the needed spatial coherence in the clusters. We propose several approaches with different optimization techniques, where the TV regularization is either performed as a subsequent post-processing step or included into the clustering algorithm. Finally, we provide a numerical evaluation of 12 different TV regularized ONMF methods on a hyperspectral dataset obtained from a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging measurement, which leads to significantly better clustering results compared to classical clustering models.
Variational Anisotropic Gradient-Domain Image Processing
Authors: Farup Ivar
Published: September 2021

Gradient-domain image processing is a technique where, instead of operating directly on the image pixel values, the gradient of the image is computed and processed. The resulting image is obtained by reintegrating the processed gradient. This is normally done by solving the Poisson equation, most often by means of a finite difference implementation of the gradient descent method. However, this technique in some cases lead to severe haloing artefacts in the resulting image. To deal with this, local or anisotropic diffusion has been added as an ad hoc modification of the Poisson equation. In this paper, we show that a version of anisotropic gradient-domain image processing can result from a more general variational formulation through the minimisation of a functional formulated in terms of the eigenvalues of the structure tensor of the differences between the processed gradient and the gradient of the original image. Example applications of linear and nonlinear local contrast enhancement and colour image Daltonisation illustrate the behaviour of the method.
Comprehensive Study of Side-Channel Attack on Emerging Non-Volatile Memories
Authors: Khan Mohammad Nasim Imtiaz , Bhasin Shivam , Liu Bo , Yuan Alex , Chattopadhyay Anupam , Ghosh Swaroop
Published: September 2021

Emerging Non-Volatile Memories (NVMs) such as Magnetic RAM (MRAM), Spin-Transfer Torque RAM (STTRAM), Phase Change Memory (PCM) and Resistive RAM (RRAM) are very promising due to their low (static) power operation, high scalability and high performance. However, these memories bring new threats to data security. In this paper, we investigate their vulnerability against Side Channel Attack (SCA). We assume that the adversary can monitor the supply current of the memory array consumed during read/write operations and recover the secret key of Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) execution. First, we show our analysis of simulation results. Then, we use commercial NVM chips to validate the analysis. We also investigate the effectiveness of encoding against SCA on emerging NVMs. Finally, we summarize two new flavors of NVMs that can be resilient against SCA. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to do a comprehensive study of SCA vulnerability of the majority of emerging NVM-based cache.
NOXA Is Important for Verticillium dahliae’s Penetration Ability and Virulence
Authors: Zhu Xiaohan , Sayari Mohammad , Islam Md. Rashidul , Daayf Fouad
Published: September 2021

NADPH oxidase (Nox) genes are responsible for Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production in living organisms such as plants, animals, and fungi, where ROS exert different functions. ROS are critical for sexual development and cellular differentiation in fungi. In previous publications, two genes encoding thioredoxin and NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase involved in maintaining ROS balance were shown to be remarkably induced in a highly versus a weakly aggressive Verticillium dahliae isolate. This suggested a role of these genes in the virulence of this pathogen. NoxA (NADPH oxidase A) was identified in the V. dahliae genome. We compared in vitro expression of NoxA in highly and weakly aggressive isolates of V. dahliae after elicitation with extracts from different potato tissues. NoxA expression was induced more in the weakly than highly aggressive isolate in response to leaf and stem extracts. After inoculation of potato detached leaves with these two V. dahliae isolates, NoxA was drastically up-regulated in the highly versus the weakly aggressive isolate. We generated single gene disruption mutants for NoxA genes. noxa mutants had significantly reduced virulence, indicating important roles in V. dahliae pathogenesis on the potato. This is consistent with a significant reduction of cellophane penetration ability of the mutants compared to the wild type. However, the cell wall integrity was not impaired in the noxa mutants when compared with the wild type. The resistance of noxa mutants to oxidative stress were also similar to the wild type. Complementation of noxa mutants with a full length NoxA clones restored penetration and pathogenic ability of the fungus. Our data showed that NoxA is essential for both penetration peg formation and virulence in V. dahliae.
Development of the Hypertension Index Model in General Adult Using the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey and the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study
Authors: Seo Myung-Jae , Ahn Sung-Gyun , Lee Yong-Jae , Kim Jong-Koo
Published: September 2021

Hypertension, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality, has been increasing. Along with emphasizing awareness and control of hypertension, predicting the incidence of hypertension is important. Several studies have previously reported prediction models of hypertension. However, among the previous models for predicting hypertension, few models reflect various risk factors for hypertension. We constructed a sex-specific prediction model using Korean datasets, which included socioeconomic status, medical history, lifestyle-related variables, anthropometric status, and laboratory indices. We utilized the data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2011 to 2015 to derive a hypertension prediction model. Participants aged 40 years or older. We constructed a sex-specific hypertension classification model using logistic regression and features obtained by literature review and statistical analysis. We constructed a sex-specific hypertension classification model including approximately 20 variables. We estimated its performance using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey dataset from 2016 to 2018 (AUC = 0.847 in men, AUC = 0.901 in women). The performance of our hypertension model was considered significant based on the cumulative incidence calculated from a longitudinal dataset, the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study dataset. We developed this hypertension prediction model using features that could be collected in a clinical office without difficulty. Individualized results may alert a person at high risk to modify unhealthy lifestyles.
Liquid Biopsy Biomarkers for Immunotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: Lessons Learned and the Road Ahead
Authors: Hita-Millan Jesus , Carracedo Angel , Fernandez-Rozadilla Ceres
Published: September 2021

Over the recent years, advances in the development of anti-cancer treatments, particularly the implementation of ICIs (immune checkpoint inhibitors), have resulted in increased survival rates in NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) patients. However, a significant proportion of patients does not seem respond to immunotherapy, and some individuals even develop secondary resistance to treatment. Therefore, it is imperative to correctly identify the patients that will benefit from ICI therapy in order to tailor therapeutic options in an individualised setting, ultimately benefitting both the patient and the health system. Many different biomarkers have been explored to correctly stratify patients and predict response to immunotherapy, but liquid biopsy approaches have recently arisen as an interesting opportunity to predict and monitor treatment response due to their logistic accessibility. This review summarises the current data and efforts in the field of ICI response biomarkers in NSCLC patients and highlights advantages and limitations as we discuss the road to clinical implementation.
Aortic Root Dilatation Is Attenuated with Diabetes but Is Not Associated with Renal Progression in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wu Pei-Yu , Huang Jiun-Chi , Liu Yi-Hsueh , Su Ho-Ming , Chen Szu-Chia , Chiu Yi-Wen , Chang Jer-Ming
Published: September 2021

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often have cardiac functional and structural abnormalities which can lead to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In this study, we investigated associations between diabetes mellitus (DM) and cardiac functional and structural parameters in patients with CKD focusing on aortic root diameter (ARD). We also investigated associations of renal outcomes with DM and cardiac functional and structural characteristics. We enrolled 419 patients with CKD stage 3–5 were enrolled. ARD was normalized to body surface area (BSA) (ARD/BSA), and the rate of decline in renal function was assessed by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope (mL/min/1.73 m2/year). ARD/BSA ≥2.1 cm/m2 in men or ≥2.2 cm/m2 in women was defined as indicating aortic root dilatation. The patients with DM had lower ARD/BSA, higher left atrial dimension (LAD), lower left ventricular ejection fraction, lower ratio of peak early transmitral filling wave velocity to peak late transmitral filling wave velocity, and higher left ventricular relative wall thickness, than those without DM. After multivariable analysis, DM (vs. non-DM; coefficient β, −0.060; p = 0.018) was significantly associated with low ARD/BSA. Significantly fewer patients with DM had aortic root dilatation compared to those without DM (14.3% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.022). In the patients with DM, there were significant associations between a high left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (per 1 g/m2, β, −0.016; p = 0.040) and high LAD (per 1 cm; β, −1.965; p < 0.001) with a low eGFR slope. However, other parameters, including ARD/BSA, were not associated with eGFR slope. Furthermore, there were no associations between eGFR slope and any of the echocardiographic parameters in the patients without DM. Aortic root dilatation was attenuated in the patients with DM, but it was not associated with a decline in renal function. However, high LAD and LVMI were associated with rapid renal function decline in the CKD patients with DM.
Betel Nut Chewing Was Associated with Obstructive Lung Disease in a Large Taiwanese Population Study
Authors: Huang Chao-Hsin , Geng Jiun-Hung , Wu Da-Wei , Chen Szu-Chia , Hung Chih-Hsing , Kuo Chao-Hung
Published: September 2021

The prevalence of betel nut chewing in Taiwan is high at approximately 7%, however, few studies have evaluated the relationship between betel nut chewing and lung disease. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate associations between betel nut chewing and lung function in 80,877 participants in the Taiwan Biobank (TWB). We further investigated correlations between betel nut chewing characteristics such as years of use, frequency, daily amount, and accumulative dose, with obstructive lung disease. We used data from the TWB. Lung function was assessed using spirometry measurements of forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1). The participants were classified into normal lung function and obstructive lung function (FEV1/FVC < 70%) groups. The participants were asked questions about betel nut chewing, including years of use, frequency, and daily amount. After multivariable analysis, betel nut chewing (odds ratio [OR] = 1.159; p < 0.001) was significantly associated with FEV1/FVC < 70% in all participants (n = 80,877). Further, in the participants who chewed betel nut (n = 5135), a long duration of betel nut chewing (per 1 year; OR = 1.008; p = 0.012), betel nut use every day (vs. 1–3 days/month; OR = 1.793; p = 0.036), 10–20 quids a day (vs. <10 quids; OR = 1.404; p = 0.019), 21–30 quids a day (vs. <10 quids; OR = 1.662; p = 0.010), ≥31 quids a day (vs. <10 quids; OR = 1.717; p = 0.003), and high cumulative dose (per 1 year × frequency × daily score; OR = 1.001; p = 0.002) were significantly associated with FEV1/FVC < 70%. In this large population-based cohort study, chewing betel nut was associated with obstructive lung disease. Furthermore, a long duration of betel nut chewing, more frequent use, higher daily amount, and high cumulative dose were associated with obstructive lung disease. This suggests that preventing betel nut chewing should be considered to reduce obstructive lung disease in Taiwan.
Patients’ Characterization of Medication, Emotions, and Incongruent Perceptions around Adherence
Authors: Tu Pikuei , Smith Danielle , Clark Rachel , Bayzle Laura , Tu Rungting , Lin Cheryl
Published: September 2021

Medication nonadherence is prevalent among patients with chronic diseases. Previous research focused on patients’ beliefs in medication or illness and applied risk-benefit analyses when reasoning their behavior. This qualitative study examined rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients’ perceptions and feelings toward medication in parallel with attitudes about their own adherence. We conducted four 90-min focus groups and seven 60-min interviews with a diverse sample of RA patients (n = 27). Discussions covered dilemmas encountered, emotions, and thought process concerning medication, and included application of projective techniques. Transcripts were analyzed in NVivo-12 using a thematic coding framework through multiple rounds of deduction and categorization. Three themes emerged, each with mixed sentiments. (1) Ambivalent feelings toward medication: participants experienced internal conflicts as their appreciation of drugs for relief contradicted worries about side effects or “toxicity” and desire to not identify as sick, portraying medications as “best friend” and “evil”. (2) Struggles in taking medication: participants “hated” the burden of managing regimen and resented the reliance and embarrassment. (3) Attitudes and behavior around adherence: most participants self-reported high adherence yet also described frequently self-adjusting medications, displaying perception-action incongruency. Some expressed nervousness and resistance while others felt empowered when modifying dosage, which might have motivated or helped them self-justify nonadherence. Only a few who deviated from prescription discussed it with their clinicians though most participants expressed the desire to do so; open communication with providers reinforced a sense of confidence and control of their own health. Promoting personalized care with shared decision-making that empowers and supports patients in managing their long-term treatment could encourage adherence and improve overall health outcome.
Association of the Adipokines Chemerin, Apelin, Vaspin and Omentin and Their Functional Genetic Variants with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Wahba Alaa S. , Ibrahim Maha E. , Abo-elmatty Dina M. , Mehanna Eman T.
Published: September 2021

Adipokines were shown to exert crucial roles in rheumatic diseases. This study aimed to assess the role of chemerin, apelin, vaspin, and omentin adipokines and their genetic variants rs17173608, rs2235306, rs2236242, and rs2274907, respectively, in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathogenesis in Egyptian patients. A total of 150 RA patients and 150 healthy individuals were recruited. Blood samples were collected and used for genotyping. Serum was separated and used for expression analysis by quantitative PCR, and various biochemical markers determination by ELISA. Serum protein levels of chemerin and vaspin, as well as their gene expression levels were higher, while those of apelin and omentin were lower in RA patients and were associated with most of RA clinical and laboratory characteristics. G allele of chemerin rs17173608, T allele of vaspin rs2236242, and T allele of omentin rs2274907 were more frequent in RA patients. Serum levels and gene expression levels of chemerin in GG genotype carriers and vaspin in TT genotype group were significantly higher, while those of omentin in TT genotype carriers were significantly lower than RA patients with other genotypes. There was no association between apelin rs2235306 and RA. Chemerin rs17173608, vaspin rs2236242, and omentin rs2274907 polymorphisms were associated with increased susceptibility to RA.
Hyperparameter Tuning and Pipeline Optimization via Grid Search Method and Tree-Based AutoML in Breast Cancer Prediction
Authors: Radzi Siti Fairuz Mat , Karim Muhammad Khalis Abdul , Saripan M Iqbal , Rahman Mohd Amiruddin Abd , Isa Iza Nurzawani Che , Ibahim Mohammad Johari
Published: September 2021

Automated machine learning (AutoML) has been recognized as a powerful tool to build a system that automates the design and optimizes the model selection machine learning (ML) pipelines. In this study, we present a tree-based pipeline optimization tool (TPOT) as a method for determining ML models with significant performance and less complex breast cancer diagnostic pipelines. Some features of pre-processors and ML models are defined as expression trees and optimal gene programming (GP) pipelines, a stochastic search system. Features of radiomics have been presented as a guide for the ML pipeline selection from the breast cancer data set based on TPOT. Breast cancer data were used in a comparative analysis of the TPOT-generated ML pipelines with the selected ML classifiers, optimized by a grid search approach. The principal component analysis (PCA) random forest (RF) classification was proven to be the most reliable pipeline with the lowest complexity. The TPOT model selection technique exceeded the performance of grid search (GS) optimization. The RF classifier showed an outstanding outcome amongst the models in combination with only two pre-processors, with a precision of 0.83. The grid search optimized for support vector machine (SVM) classifiers generated a difference of 12% in comparison, while the other two classifiers, naïve Bayes (NB) and artificial neural network—multilayer perceptron (ANN-MLP), generated a difference of almost 39%. The method’s performance was based on sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis.
Niche Preference of Escherichia coli in a Peri-Urban Pond Ecosystem
Authors: NandaKafle Gitanjali , Huegen Taylor , Potgieter Sarah C. , Steenkamp Emma , Venter Stephanus N. , Brözel Volker S.
Published: September 2021

Escherichia coli comprises diverse strains with a large accessory genome, indicating functional diversity and the ability to adapt to a range of niches. Specific strains would display greatest fitness in niches matching their combination of phenotypic traits. Given this hypothesis, we sought to determine whether E. coli in a peri-urban pond and associated cattle pasture display niche preference. Samples were collected from water, sediment, aquatic plants, water snails associated with the pond, as well as bovine feces from cattle in an adjacent pasture. Isolates (120) were obtained after plating on Membrane Lactose Glucuronide Agar (MLGA). We used the uidA and mutS sequences for all isolates to determine phylogeny by maximum likelihood, and population structure through gene flow analysis. PCR was used to allocate isolates to phylogroups and to determine the presence of pathogenicity/virulence genes (stxI, stxII, eaeA, hlyA, ST, and LT). Antimicrobial resistance was determined using a disk diffusion assay for Tetracycline, Gentamicin, Ciprofloxacin, Meropenem, Ceftriaxone, and Azithromycin. Our results showed that isolates from water, sediment, and water plants were similar by phylogroup distribution, virulence gene distribution, and antibiotic resistance while both snail and feces populations were significantly different. Few of the feces isolates were significantly similar to aquatic ones, and most of the snail isolates were also different. Population structure analysis indicated three genetic backgrounds associated with bovine, snail, and aquatic environments. Collectively these data support niche preference of E. coli isolates occurring in this ecosystem.
Reduced Plasma Ascorbate and Increased Proportion of Dehydroascorbic Acid Levels in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Doshida Yuta , Itabashi Mitsuyo , Takei Takashi , Takino Yuka , Sato Ayami , Yumura Wako , Maruyama Naoki , Ishigami Akihito
Published: September 2021

Ascorbate functions as an electron donor and scavenges free radicals. Dehydroascorbic acid (DHA), the oxidized form of ascorbate, is generated as a result of these reactions. While low plasma ascorbate levels have been reported in hemodialysis patients worldwide, no studies have measured DHA because it is not generalized. In this study, we aimed to clarify whether plasma ascorbate levels are low in dialysis patients and whether plasma ascorbate levels fluctuate before and after dialysis. Moreover, we applied our previously established method to measure the plasma ascorbate and DHA levels in chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage G3–G5 non-hemodialysis-dependent patients, and pre- and post-dialysis plasma ascorbate and DHA levels in CKD stage G5D hemodialysis patients. The sample size was calculated using G-power software. The pre-dialysis plasma total ascorbate levels, including DHA, were significantly (56%) lower in hemodialysis patients than in non-hemodialysis-dependent CKD patients. After dialysis, there was a 40% reduction in the plasma total ascorbate levels. Hemodialysis increased the post-dialysis plasma proportions of DHA from 37% to 55%. The study results demonstrated lower plasma total ascorbate levels in hemodialysis patients compared with in non-hemodialysis-dependent CKD patients; these low levels in hemodialysis patients were further reduced by hemodialysis and increased DHA proportion.
Effects of Magnitude of Leading Stimulus on Prepulse Inhibition of Auditory Evoked Cerebral Responses: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Kawano Yasuhiro , Motomura Eishi , Inui Koji , Okada Motohiro
Published: September 2021

An abrupt change in a sound feature (test stimulus) elicits a specific cerebral response, which is attenuated by a weaker sound feature change (prepulse) preceding the test stimulus. As an exploratory study, we investigated whether and how the magnitude of the change of the prepulse affects the degree of prepulse inhibition (PPI). Sound stimuli were 650 ms trains of clicks at 100 Hz. The test stimulus was an abrupt sound pressure increase (by 10 dB) in the click train. Three consecutive clicks, weaker (−5 dB, −10 dB, −30 dB, or gap) than the baseline, at 30, 40, and 50 ms before the test stimulus, were used as prepulses. Magnetic responses to the ten types of stimuli (test stimulus alone, control, four types of tests with prepulses, and four types of prepulses alone) were recorded in 10 healthy subjects. The change-related N1m component, peaking at approximately 130 ms, and its PPI were investigated. The degree of PPI caused by the −5 dB prepulse was significantly weaker than that caused by other prepulses. The degree of PPI caused by further decreases in prepulse magnitude showed a plateau level between the −10 dB and gap prepulses. The results suggest that there is a physiologically significant range of sensory changes for PPI, which plays a role in the change detection for survival.
Thermodynamics of Potential CHO Metabolites in a Reducing Environment
Authors: Kua Jeremy , Hernandez Alexandra L. , Velasquez Danielle N.
Published: September 2021

How did metabolism arise and evolve? What chemical compounds might be suitable to support and sustain a proto-metabolism before the advent of more complex co-factors? We explore these questions by using first-principles quantum chemistry to calculate the free energies of CHO compounds in aqueous solution, allowing us to probe the thermodynamics of core extant cycles and their closely related chemical cousins. By framing our analysis in terms of the simplest feasible cycle and its permutations, we analyze potentially favorable thermodynamic cycles for CO2 fixation with H2 as a reductant. We find that paying attention to redox states illuminates which reactions are endergonic or exergonic. Our results highlight the role of acetate in proto-metabolic cycles, and its connection to other prebiotic molecules such as glyoxalate, glycolaldehyde, and glycolic acid.
A Fuzzy Logic-Based Algorithm to Solve the Slot Planning Problem in Container Vessels
Authors: Rashed Dalia , Eltawil Amr , Gheith Mohamed
Published: September 2021

Background: The slot planning problem is a container allocation problem within a certain location on a vessel. It is considered a sub-problem of a successful decomposition approach for the container vessel stowage planning problem. This decision has a direct effect on container handling operations and the vessel berthing time, which are key indicators for the container terminal efficiency. Methods: In this paper, an approach combining a rule-based fuzzy logic algorithm with a rule-based search algorithm is developed to solve the slot planning problem. The rules in the proposed fuzzy logic algorithm aim at improving the objective function and minimizing/eliminating constraint violation. Results: The computational results of 236 slot planning instances illustrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Conclusions: The results show that the proposed approach is fast and can produce optimal or near-optimal solutions for a comprehensive industrial set of instances.
Electrosprayed Chitosan–Copper Complex Microspheres with Uniform Size
Authors: Lončarević Andrea , Ivanković Marica , Rogina Anamarija
Published: September 2021

Chitosan-based nano- and microspheres have shown great potential in a broad range of applications, including drug delivery, bone tissue engineering, wastewater treatments, etc. The preparation of uniformly sized spheres with controlled morphology and microstructure is still a challenge. This work investigates the influence of cupric ions (Cu2+) on the size, shape, morphology and stability of electrosprayed chitosan–copper (CHT–Cu2+) complex microspheres, using chitosans with different degrees of deacetylation. The dynamic viscosity of CHT–Cu2+ solutions was measured by Höppler viscometer, while attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) was used for the identification of dried microspheres. The size, shape and morphology of microspheres were analyzed by light microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while stability of dried microspheres was evaluated in different buffer solutions. The volume ratio of wet and dry microspheres was assessed based on the estimated diameter of microspheres. The higher concentration of Cu2+ ions resulted in a decrease in viscosity of CHT–Cu2+ solutions and volume ratio of prepared microspheres. Changes in the intensities and wave numbers of absorption bands of amino and hydroxyl groups, amide I and amide II suggested that the nitrogen and oxygen atoms in chitosan are coordinating the cupric ions. Micrographs obtained by light microscope and SEM showed that all prepared samples are spherical. The increase of cupric ions concentration changed the topography of microspheres and decreased their size. These results indicated the successful electrospraying of CHT–Cu2+ microspheres with uniform size and good stability in aqueous medium.
Mechanism of Sand Cementation with an Efficient Method of Microbial-Induced Calcite Precipitation
Authors: Wang Lu , Liu Shuhua
Published: September 2021

This paper presents an efficient method of microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) for cementation of sand particles. First, the influence of initial pH value of the culture medium on the growth of bacteria was discussed. Then, the compressive strength and calcium carbonate content of cemented sand columns with different sand particle sizes were measured to indicate the cementation effectiveness. The microstructure of cemented sand columns as well as the mineral composition and distribution of calcium carbonate were characterised by means of scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the urease-producing bacteria S. pasteurii can be cultured at the initial pH values of 7–10, while a higher pH (e.g., 11) would hinder its growth and decrease its urease activity. The injection method of MICP with high standing time can cement sand columns effectively. Small average sand particle size of sand columns and high injection cycles can facilitate the gain of compressive strength, while calcium carbonate content of sand column higher than 8% can promote the increase of compressive strength. XRD results indicate that the fine grains generated on the surface of sand particles are calcite. The distribution of calcite on sand particles’ surface is broad and uniform. First, calcite was precipitated on the surface of sand particles, and then a precipitation layer was formed, which would connect sand particles through its high enough thickness and contribute to the development of compressive strength of the whole sand column.
Recent Progress on Molecular Photoacoustic Imaging with Carbon-Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Jeong Songah , Yoo Su Woong , Kim Hea Ji , Park Jieun , Kim Ji Woo , Lee Changho , Kim Hyungwoo
Published: September 2021

For biomedical imaging, the interest in noninvasive imaging methods is ever increasing. Among many modalities, photoacoustic imaging (PAI), which is a combination of optical and ultrasound imaging techniques, has received attention because of its unique advantages such as high spatial resolution, deep penetration, and safety. Incorporation of exogenous imaging agents further amplifies the effective value of PAI, since they can deliver other specified functions in addition to imaging. For these agents, carbon-based materials can show a large specific surface area and interesting optoelectronic properties, which increase their effectiveness and have proved their potential in providing a theragnostic platform (diagnosis + therapy) that is essential for clinical use. In this review, we introduce the current state of the PAI modality, address recent progress on PAI imaging that takes advantage of carbon-based agents, and offer a future perspective on advanced PAI systems using carbon-based agents.
Sizing the Depth and Width of Narrow Cracks in Real Parts by Laser-Spot Lock-In Thermography
Authors: Colom Mateu , Rodríguez-Aseguinolaza Javier , Mendioroz Arantza , Salazar Agustín
Published: September 2021

We present a complete characterization of the width and depth of a very narrow fatigue crack developed in an Al-alloy dog bone plate using laser-spot lock-in thermography. Unlike visible micrographs, which show many surface scratches, the thermographic image clearly identifies the presence of a single crack about 1.5 mm long. Once detected, we focus a modulated laser beam close to the crack and we record the temperature amplitude. By fitting the numerical model to the temperature profile across the crack, we obtain both the width and depth simultaneously, at the location of the laser spot. Repeating the process for different positions of the laser spot along the crack length, we obtain the distribution of the crack width and depth. We show that the crack has an almost constant depth (0.7 mm) and width (1.5 µm) along 0.7 mm and features a fast reduction in both quantities until the crack vanishes. The results prove the ability of laser-spot lock-in thermography to fully characterize quantitatively narrow cracks, even below 1 µm.
The Variable Frequency Conductivity of Geopolymers during the Long Agieng Period
Authors: Walter Janusz , Uthayakumar Marimuthu , Balamurugan Ponnambalam , Mierzwiński Dariusz
Published: September 2021

The variable frequency conductivity was applied to characterize the process of solidification of geopolymers based on fly ash with sand additives. XRD qualitative and quantitative analysis, porosity measurements, and sorption analysis of specific surface area were performed. The conductivity was correlated with porosity and specific surface area of geopolymer concretes. Both values of conductivity, real and imaginary parts, decreased during polymerization processing time. Characteristic maximum on graphs describing susceptance vs. frequency curve was observed. The frequency of this maximum depends on time of polymerization and ageing, and can also indicate porosity of material. Low-porous geopolymer concrete shows both low-conductivity values, and susceptance maximum frequency peak occurs more in the higher frequencies than in high-porous materials.
Optical Properties of Magnesium-Zinc Oxide for Thin Film Photovoltaics
Authors: Alaani Mohammed A. Razooqi , Koirala Prakash , Phillips Adam B. , Liyanage Geethika K. , Awni Rasha A. , Sapkota Dhurba R. , Ramanujam Balaji , Heben Michael J. , O’Leary Stephen K. , Podraza Nikolas J. , Collins Robert W.
Published: September 2021

Motivated by their utility in CdTe-based thin film photovoltaics (PV) devices, an investigation of thin films of the magnesium-zinc oxide (MgxZn1−xO or MZO) alloy system was undertaken applying spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE). Dominant wurtzite phase MZO thin films with Mg contents in the range 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.42 were deposited on room temperature soda lime glass (SLG) substrates by magnetron co-sputtering of MgO and ZnO targets followed by annealing. The complex dielectric functions ε of these films were determined and parameterized over the photon energy range from 0.73 to 6.5 eV using an analytical model consisting of two critical point (CP) oscillators. The CP parameters in this model are expressed as polynomial functions of the best fitting lowest CP energy or bandgap E0 = Eg, which in turn is a quadratic function of x. As functions of x, both the lowest energy CP broadening and the Urbach parameter show minima for x ~ 0.3, which corresponds to a bandgap of 3.65 eV. As a result, it is concluded that for this composition and bandgap, the MZO exhibits either a minimum concentration of defects in the bulk of the crystallites or a maximum in the grain size, an observation consistent with measured X-ray diffraction line broadenings. The parametric expression for ε developed here is expected to be useful in future mapping and through-the-glass SE analyses of partial and complete PV device structures incorporating MZO.
Electrochemical Production of Bismuth in the KCl–PbCl2 Melt
Authors: Arkhipov Pavel Alexandrovich , Zaikov Yury Pavlovich , Khalimullina Yuliya Rinatovna , Arkhipov Stepan Pavlovich
Published: September 2021

An anode dissolution of binary metallic lead–bismuth alloys with different concentrations of components has been studied in the KCl–PbCl2 molten eutectic. The dissolution of lead is found to be a basic process for the alloys of Pb–Bi (59.3–40.7), Pb–Bi (32.5–67.5), Pb–Bi (7.0–93.0) compositions in the whole interval of studied anode current densities. A limiting diffusion current of lead dissolution was observed at 2 A/cm2 and 0.1 A/cm2 for the alloys of Pb–Bi (5.0–95.0) and Pb–Bi (3.0–97.0) compositions, respectively. The dissolution of bismuth takes place at the anode current densities exceeding the mentioned values. The number of electrons participating in the electrode reactions is detected for each mechanism. Based on the theoretical analysis, the experimental electrolysis of bismuth was performed in the laboratory-scale electrolytic cell with a porous ceramic diaphragm. The final product contained pure bismuth with a lead concentration of 3.5 wt.%.
Innovative Method for Longer Effective Corrosion Inhibition Time: Controlled Release Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Hemicellulose Inhibitor Tablet
Authors: Haris Nur Izzah Nabilah , Sobri Shafreeza , Yusof Yus Aniza , Kassim Nur Kartinee
Published: September 2021

This study aims to develop a controlled release oil palm empty fruit bunch hemicellulose (EFB-H) inhibitor tablet for mild steel in 1 M HCl. As plant extracts tend to deteriorate at longer immersion time, limiting its industrial applicability, we attempted to lengthen the inhibition time by forming a controlled release inhibitor tablet. Electrochemical methods (potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)) were employed to investigate the efficiency and mechanism of the inhibition. An optimum dosage and immersion time was determined via Response Surface Methodology (RSM). EFB-H tablet was formulated using D-optimal mixture design, and its anticorrosion action at extended immersion time was compared with EFB-H powder. PDP measurement revealed that EFB-H is a mixed type inhibitor. RSM optimization unveiled that the optimum point for a maximum inhibition efficiency (87.11%) was at 0.33 g of EFB-H and 120 h of immersion time. Tablet T3 with EFB-H to gum Arabic to hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ratio of 66:0:34 portrayed the best tensile strength (0.243 MPa), disintegration time (152 min) and dissolution behavior. EFB-H tablet exhibited a longer-lasting inhibition effect than powder, which was 360 h as compared to 120 h for powder. Overall, EFB-H tablet has been successfully developed, and its enhanced effective inhibition time has been experimentally proven.
Duplex Steels Used in Building Structures and Their Resistance to Chloride Corrosion
Authors: Maslak Mariusz , Stankiewicz Marek , Slazak Benedykt
Published: September 2021

Welded structures made of duplex steels are used in building applications due to their resistance to local corrosion attack initiated by chlorides. In this paper, the material and technological factors determining the corrosion resistance are discussed in detail. Furthermore, recommendations are formulated that allow, in the opinion of the authors, to obtain a maximum corrosion resistance for welded joints. The practical aspects of corrosion resistance testing are also discussed, based on the results of qualification tests. This work is of a review character. The conclusions and practical recommendations are intended for contractors and investors of various types of structures made of the duplex steel. The recommendations concern the selection and use of duplex steels, including the issues of metallurgy, welding techniques, and corrosion protection.
Method of Distinguishing Styles by Fractal and Statistical Indicators of the Text as a Sequence of the Number of Letters in Its Words
Authors: Kaminskiy Roman , Shakhovska Nataliya , Kajanová Jana , Kryvenchuk Yurii
Published: September 2021

The method of the analysis of different texts styles is developed in the paper. Integer numerical sequences are used as models. The elements of the sequence are the number of letters in the words of the text. The algorithm for calculating the exact value of the fractal dimension is developed. It provides the determination of the exact value of the Hurst index. The value of the power dependence constant is calculated. The obtained indicators in the aspect of fractality completely describe the objects of research.