bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The anti-Jaynes-Cummings model is solvable : quantum Rabi model in rotating and counter-rotating frames ; following the experiments
Authors: Omolo Joseph
Published: April 2021

This article is a response to the continued assumption, cited even in reports and reviews of recent experimental breakthroughs and advances in theoretical methods, that the antiJaynes-Cummings (AJC)interaction is an intractable energy non-conserving component of the quantum Rabi model (QRM). We present three key features of QRM dynamics : (a) the AJC interaction component has a conserved excitation number operator and is exactly solvable (b) QRM dynamical space consists of a rotating frame (RF) dominated by an exactly solved Jaynes-Cummings (JC) interaction specied by a conserved JC excitation number operator which generates the U(1) symmetry of RF and a correlated counter-rotating frame (CRF) dominated by an exactly solved antiJaynes-Cummings (AJC) interaction specied by a conserved AJC excitation number operator which generates the U(1) symmetry of CRF (c) for QRM dynamical evolution in RF, the initial atom-eld state je0i is an eigenstate of the effective AJC Hamiltonian HAJC, while the effective JC Hamiltonian HJC drives this initial state je0i into a time evolving entangled state, and, in a corresponding process for QRM dynamical evolution in CRF, the initial atom-eld state jg0i is an eigenstate of the effective JC Hamiltonian, while the effective AJC Hamiltonian drives this initial state jg0i into a time evolving entangled state, thus addressing one of the long-standing challenges of theoretical and experimental QRM dynamics; consistent generalizations of the initial states je0i , jg0i to corresponding n 0 entangled eigenstates j+en i , j 􀀀g ni of the AJC in RF and JC in CRF, respectively, provides general dynamical evolution of QRM characterized by collapses and revivals in the time evolution of the atomic, eld mode, JC and AJC excitation numbers for large initial photon numbers ; the JC and AJC excitation numbers are conserved in the respective frames RF, CRF, but each evolves with time in the alternate frame.
A Geometric Prediction Model of Surface Morphology in Micro-EDM Considering Stochastic Characteristics of Discharge Crater Size
Authors: Hou Shaojie , Bai J C
Published: April 2021

The surface topography of micro-EDM is closely related to its application range, so it is important to accurately predict the surface morphology. Most of the existing models do not consider the stochastic characteristics and uncertainty of the discharge process, which could produce great differences with the experimental results. Aiming at these problems, the stochastic characteristic of the discharge crater size is studied, and a simulation model is established to predict the surface topography of EDM considering the stochastic characteristics of crater size. Firstly, the stochastic characteristics of the crater size were investigated through the finite-successive pulses discharge method and characterized from the perspective of probability theory. The stochastic characteristics was explained by analyzing discharge waveforms. Secondly, the response surface method (RSM) was used to map the corresponding relationship between the input machining parameters and the distribution characteristics of crater size. It was observed that the RSM model can accurately predict the distribution characteristics of crater size in the range of parameters selected in this study. Finally, models based on stochastic distribution of crater size (MSDS) and fixed crater size (MFS) were established respectively. By analyzing the characteristics of the simulated surfaces and the machined surface, it was found that the surface features of MSDS are closer to the real surface features. Compared with MFS, the roughness prediction error and the average of overall error of MSDS are reduced by 1.01% and 18.97% respectively. The results of this work are helpful to understand the randomness and realize the controllability of EDM.
Finite-time observer based tracking control of uncertain heterogeneous underwater vehicles using adaptive sliding mode approach
Authors: Chen Bo , Zhao Yiyi , Hu Jiangping , Ghosh Bijoy Kumar
Published: April 2021

In this study, we investigate a finite-time consensus tracking problem for a group of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) with heterogeneous uncertain dynamics. We firstly propose a two-layer distributed control strategy, which consists of an upper-layer distributed observer and a lower-layer controller, without using any global information. Based on Hölder's inequality and the theory of finite-time stability, we develop a distributed finite-time observer for each follower to estimate the position information of a leader (i.e., an exosystem). Based on the sliding mode control method, we design a consensus tracking control scheme for each AUV, by which all follower AUVs can track the leader in finite-time. Secondly, when the parameters in the AUV dynamics are uncertain, we introduce a parameter-adaptive sliding mode control algorithm to improve the control performance. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithms.
Corrosion Susceptibility of Stainless Steel in Artificial Saliva Containing Citric Acid
Authors: Okereke Chioma J. , Onyenegecha Chibueze Paul , Njoku Ifeanyi Jude
Published: April 2021

ObjectivesThe aims of this study are to investigate the effect of concentration of citric acid in saliva environment on SS 316L and effect of ginger and garlic on SS 316L corrosion in citric acid-containing saliva environment.Methods.Seven SS 316L specimen of dimensions 1cm × 1cm were used for this study. The specimen were subjected to electrochemical corrosion test using an in artificial saliva containing citric acid with varying concentrations of 0.0 g/l, 3.0 g/l, 6.0 g/l, and 9.0 g/l electrochemical cell. 10 g/l each of garlic and ginger were also added to two of artificial saliva samples containing citric acid and one sample of artificial saliva contained 5 g/l of ginger and 5 g/l of garlic added together so as to study the corrosion effects of these substances on the SS 316L specimen in saliva environment. The results were displayed based on Tafel’s plot of current density against potential difference. Also, corrosion rates of the samples were determined and presented in graphical form.Results.The study results showed that citric acid is a good inhibitor of corrosion of SS 316L dental implant in oral environment with its inhibition efficiency depending on its concentration, and that the mechanism of this inhibition can attributed to the adsorption of citric acid onto the metal alloy (SS 316L) surface. The study also concluded that both ginger and garlic are promoters of corrosion of SS 316L alloy implants in saliva environment.
Facilitators and Barriers Return to Work in Working People with Serious Mental Illness: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Maddineshat Maryam , Sadeghian Efat , Ghaleiha Ali , Khalafbeigi Mitra , Cheraghi Fatemeh
Published: April 2021

Background: Many factors affect return to work (RTW) in employees and workers (hereinafter referred to as working people) with serious mental illness (SMI). Identifying these factors can prevent long-term sick leave absence and work disability. Aim: The current study was conducted to identify facilitators and barriers RTW in working people with SMI admitted to a psychiatric hospital and clinic affiliated with the Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Iran.Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in 2020 on 27 participants with SMI, families, supervisors, managers, and mental health team members. The participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using in-depth and semi-structured interviews. A total of 40 interviews were conducted face-to-face and fallow-up by the telephone. The interviews were based on a conventional content analysis approach.Results: Two main themes emerged, including social support and RTW's challenges. Social support consisted of four main categories: emotional support, information support, instrumental support, and supervisor's flexibility. RTW's challenges consisted of two main categories: personal obstacles and general issues.Conclusion: We found that two facilitator and barrier factors including social support and RTW's challenges affected the RTW process in working people with SMI. Identifying facilitator and barrier factors gives us comprehensive information to use in RTW programs and developing policies RTW in working people with SMI.
Interactions of Anti-COVID-19 Drug Candidates With Hepatic Transporters May Cause Liver Toxicity and Affect Drug Metabolism
Authors: Ambrus Csilla , Bakos Éva , Sarkadi Balázs , Özvegy-Laczka Csilla , Telbisz Ágnes
Published: April 2021

Transporters in the human liver play a major role in the metabolism of endo-and xenobiotics. Apical (canalicular) transporters extrude compounds to the bile, while basolateral hepatocyte transporters promote the uptake or expel various compounds into the venous blood stream. In the present work we have examined the in vitro interactions of some key repurposed drugs advocated to treat COVID-19 (lopinavir, ritonavir, ivermectin, remdesivir and favipiravir), with the relevant key transporters in the hepatocytes. These transporters included the ABCB11/BSEP, ABCC2/MRP2, and MATE1 in the canalicular membrane, as well as ABCC3/MRP3, ABCC4/MRP4, OCT1, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, and NTCP, residing in the basolateral membrane. Lopinavir and ritonavir in low micromolar concentrations inhibited the ABCB11/BSEP and MATE1 exporters, as well as the OATP1B1/1B3 uptake transporters. Ritonavir had a similar inhibitory pattern, also inhibiting OCT1. Remdesivir strongly inhibited ABCC4/MRP4, OATP1B1/1B3, MATE1 and OCT1. Thus, these agents may cause severe drug-drug interactions and drug-induced liver injury. Favipiravir had no significant effect on any of these transporters. Since both general drug metabolism and drug-induced liver toxicity are strongly dependent on the functioning of these transporters, the variable interactions reported here may have important clinical relevance in the drug treatment of this viral disease and the existing co-morbidities.
Long COVID Neuropsychological Deficits After Severe, Moderate or Mild Infection
Authors: Voruz Philippe , Allali Gilles , Benzakour Lamyae , Nuber-Champier Anthony , Thomasson Marine , Jacot Isabelle , Pierce Jordan , Lalive Patrice , Lövblad Karl-Olof , Braillard Olivia , Coen Matteo , Serratrice Jacques , Pugin Jerôme , Ptak Radek , Guessous Idriss , Landis Basile Nicolas , Assal Frédéric , Péron Julie Anne
Published: April 2021

Background: There is growing awareness that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can include long-term neuropsychological deficits, even in its mild or moderate respiratory forms.Methods: Standardized neuropsychological, psychiatric, neurological and olfactory tests were administered to 45 patients (categorized according to the severity of their respiratory symptoms during the acute phase) 236.51 ± 22.54 days post-discharge following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Results: Deficits were found in all the domains of cognition and the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms was also high in the three groups. The severe performed more poorly on long-term episodic memory and exhibited greater anosognosia. The moderate had poorer emotion recognition, which was positively correlated with persistent olfactory dysfunction. The mild were more stressed, anxious and depressed.Conclusion: The data support the hypothesis that the virus targets the central nervous system (and notably the limbic system), and support the notion of different neuropsychological phenotypes.
Giving Social Support at Work May Reduce Inflammation on Employees Themselves: A Participatory Workplace Intervention Study Among Japanese Hospital Nurses
Authors: Tondokoro Tsukumi , Nakata Akinori , Otsuka Yasumasa , Yanagihara Nobuyuki , Anan Ayumi , Kodama Hiromi , Satoh Noriaki
Published: April 2021

ObjectivePreviously, we reported that the participatory workplace intervention was effective in reducing stress-related inflammatory markers, i.e., interleukin-6, among 31 Japanese female nurses. During the analysis, we recognized that our intervention might have increased prosocial behaviors like giving social support to others in some participants. Based on this assumption, we ran a secondary analysis, which examined the effect of giving social support to others on inflammatory markers, autonomic nervous activity, and perceived job stress before and after a 5-month intervention. We divided participants into two groups; those who had increased scores on giving social support after the intervention (Group 1, n = 13), and those who had decreased/unchanged in the scores (Group 2, n = 17). Friedman test was used to examine the changes in outcome measures by the group. ResultsGroup 1 showed significant decreases in interferon-γ, interleukin-6, and interleukin-12/23p40 immediately after the intervention, while interleukin-12/23p40 remained stably decreased three months later; Group 2 did not show changes in these markers. No significant changes were observed regarding autonomic nervous activity and perceived job stress. This study presented a significant insight that giving social support at work may provide health benefits towards employees themselves, via decreasing inflammation in the body.
Numerical Analysis of the Non-Stationary Thermal State of the Tool in the Combined Casting and Extrusion of Non-Ferrous Metals 
Authors: Skuratov Alexander Petrovich , Popiyakova Natal'ya Petrovna , Potapenko Alexander Sergeevich , Gorokhov Yuriy Vasilyevich , Kuchinskii Mikhail Yur'yevich , Belyaev Sergey Vladimirovich , Voroshilov Denis Sergeevich , Konstantinov Igor Lazarevich , Ivlev Alexander Vadimovich , Bozhko Dmitriy Nikolaevich
Published: April 2021

The results of a numerical analysis of unsteady heat transfer in the "metal-mold-environment" system during continuous combined casting and extrusion of an aluminum alloy in an installation with a horizontal carousel mold are presented. The heat engineering zones characterized by different intensity of heat transfer between the melt and the surface of the mold have been determined. A quantitative assessment of the influence of the rate of heating of the crystallizer on the temperature-time characteristics during the period of the transient thermal process is given. It is shown that an increase in the productivity of the installation reduces the duration of the transient thermal process when starting the installation from a cold state until it reaches a stationary thermal regime. The dependence of the time at which the installation reaches the stationary thermal regime on the rotation speed of the crystallizer wheel has been obtained.
A 7-gene signature predicts the prognosis of patients with bladder cancer
Authors: Tang Fucai , Li Zhibiao , Lai Yongchang , Lu Zechao , Lei Hanqi , He Chengwu , He Zhaohui
Published: April 2021

Background: The biomarkers have an important guiding role in prognosis and treatment of patients with bladder cancer(BC). The aim of the present study was to identify and evaluate a prognostic gene signature in BC patients.Methods: The gene expression profiles of BC samples and the corresponding clinicopathological data were downloaded from GEO and TCGA. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by R software. Univariate Cox regression and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator(LASSO) Cox regression were applied to construct the prognostic score model. A nomogram was established with the identified prognostic factors to predict the overall survival rates of BC patients. The discriminatory and predictive capacity of the nomogram was evaluated based on the concordance index (C-index), calibration curves and decision curve analysis (DCA).Results: A 7-gene signature(KLRB1, PLAC9, SETBP1, NR2F1, GRHL2, ANXA1 and APOL1) was identified from 285 DEGs by univariate and LASSO Cox regression analyses. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that age, lymphovascular invasion, lymphatic metastasis, metastasis and the 7-gene signature risk score was an independent predictor of BC patient prognosis. A nomogram that integrated these independent prognostic factors was constructed. The C-index (0.73, CI 95%, 0.693–0.767) and calibration curve demonstrated the good performance of the nomogram. DCA of the nomogram further showed that this model exhibited good net benefit.Conclusions: The combined 7-gene signature could serve as a biomarker for predicting BC prognosis. The nomogram built by risk score and other clinical factors could be an effective tool for predicting the prognosis of patients with BC.
The COVID-19 Pandemic Accelerated Publication of Medical Articles
Authors: Wang Lu , Chen Xinyi , Sun Yinan , Yin Han , Li Long , Liu Bo , Zhao Weiheng , Wu Bili , Liu Chaofan , Huang Qin , Yuan Xianglin
Published: April 2021

BackgroundExperimental biological research and clinical trials that relied on the healthcare system, access to public laboratory equipment, and adequate space were particularly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and mobility restrictions. The study is to analyze the influence of COVID-19 on medical research by exploring the clinical trials and articles published by medical researchers worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsRoutinely conducted, deferred, and terminated clinical trial statistics from the Cancer Center of Tongji Hospital were collected during the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of global medical articles published in 2020 and those from the previous five years were analyzed according to the PubMed database. To conduct subgroup analyses, the articles were classified according to type and research field.Results The total number of publications per month in 2020 increased compared to the number of articles published in 2019. However, a decrease in the number of clinical trials was noted. Reviews and research papers increased by 7.28% and 20.60%, respectively. The number of clinical trial published decreased by 62.29%. The proportion of cancer-related publications (38.44% vs. 44.79%) decreased, whereas the proportion of immunology, pulmonology, and emergency publications (19.23% vs. 17.48%) increased. In the Cancer Center of the Tongji Hospital in Wuhan during the COVID-19 pandemic, of the 46 clinical trials analyzed, 37 (80.40%) were delayed, 8 (17.40%) were remote, and 1 (2.20%) was routine. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic had promoted the publication of medical research articles especially those related to the immunology, pulmonology, and emergency medicine. It had a pronounced negative impact on the execution and publication of clinical trials.
Determinants of drinking-water quality and sanitary risk levels of water storages in food establishments of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Girmay Aderajew Mekonnen , Gari Sirak Robel , Gessew Gebreab Teklebirhan , Reta Mulumebet Tadesse
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Clean and suitable drinking-water is a key component to enhance human health. However, obtaining safe and adequate water is limited in many developing countries. Besides, treated drinking-water are often contaminated at storages and point of use with contaminants and consumption of unclean water poses a great public health problem. This study aimed to assess the determinants of drinking-water quality and sanitary risk levels of water storages in food establishments of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted. 125 food outlets were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Then, 125 drinking-water samples (250 from each) were collected directly from the food outlets drinking-water storages. Moreover, observational checklist was used to assess determinants of drinking-water quality and sanitary risk levels of the storages. Data analysis was conducted using multivariable logistic regression.Results: This study revealed that, 28.5% of the drinking-water was contaminated with fecal coliforms. Besides, based on WHO criteria, 16.3% and 18.7% of the food outlet drinking-water storages were grouped into high and very high contamination risk levels respectively. Seven (7) explanatory variables were identified as main determinant factors which significantly associated (p-value < 0.03) with the contaminated drinking-water. Conclusion: Most of the food establishments’ drinking-water was free from bacteriological contamination and safe from biological hazards. However, significant number of food establishments’ drinking-water storages had fecal contamination. In the study, many determinant factors that affect drinking-water quality of the food outlets were identified. Therefore, good sanitation and hygiene practice should be practiced at the food establishments. Besides, creation of awareness about drinking water contamination and its health risks should be done by concerned bodies.
Late Reinfection With a Different SARS-CoV-2 Clade in a Patient With Refractory Arterial Hypertension: a Case Report.
Authors: Galiana Antonio , García-Abellán Javier , Fernández-González Marta , Gonzalo-Jiménez Nieves , Ruiz-García Montserrat , Andreo María , Falcón Selene , Masiá Mar , Gutiérrez Félix
Published: April 2021

Background: Differentiating between persistent infection with intermittent viral shedding and reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 remains challenging. Although a small number of cases with genomic evidence of second infection have been reported, limited information exists on frequency and determinants of reinfection, time between infections, and duration of immunity after the primary infection. Case presentation: We report a reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 in a 52-year old male whose primary infection was diagnosed in May 2020, during the first wave of the pandemic in Spain, and the second occurred eight months later, in January 2021. We present a complete data set including results from real-time polymerase chain reaction, serology and genome sequencing confirming reinfection with a different clade. Noteworthy was that the patient was immunocompetent but had multiple cardiometabolic comorbidities, including refractory arterial hypertension, that might increase the individual risk in COVID-19.Conclusions: This case of reinfection with SARS CoV-2 occurring several months after the primary infection reports the longest time interval between reinfection and initial infection described to date. It raises concerns on the duration of protective immunity, suggesting that it may begin to wane in patients who acquired the initial infection during the first wave of the pandemic. The potential contributing role of arterial hypertension and cardiometabolic comorbidities as risk factors for reinfection deserves investigation.
Performance Evaluation of The District's Primary Health Care System (DPHCS); Case Study Of Southeastern Iran
Authors: Rahimi Hamed , Goudarzi Reza , Noorihekmat Somayeh , Haghdoost Aliakbar
Published: April 2021

Background: Managers need to measure and evaluate the performance of their subordinates in order to plan, organize, and improve the performance of their organizations. In this study, the performance and efficiency of the district's primary health care system in the southeast of Iran were evaluated using the data envelopment analysis (DEA) model.Methods: The quantitative non-parametric data envelopment analysis was used to evaluate the performance of the primary care system in the districts. On the hand, human forcess, physical facilities, and vehicles were the variables used as the inputs, and the number of services and service recipients was considered as the outputs to measure efficiency. The data were analyzed using the DEAP software, and performance and efficiency were calculated with the output maximization approach and the assumption of variable returns to scale. It was carried out as linear programming with nine scenarios for nine districts in 2018.Results: The mean efficiency of the studied districts with the assumption of variable returns to scale was 0.76, indicating at least 24% capacity to increase efficiency in the primary care system of Kerman University of Medical Sciences without any increase in production factors. According to the mean values, Kerman and Kuhbanan were efficient while the other 7 districts were inefficient. The districts were divided into three groups: efficient, moderately efficient, and inefficient. Accordingly, the most inefficient primary health care systems were those of Shahr-e Babak, Baft, and Orzooieh.Conclusion: The results of this study showed inefficiency in most primary health care systems of the studied districts, indicating that primary care managers can provide more health services to the community through proper management of available resources. Inefficient districts can compare themselves with successful and reference districts and eliminate their shortcomings in order to improve their performance.
Research on Breakage Characteristics in Side Milling of Titanium Alloy with C emented Carbide End Mill
Authors: Du Yanjie , Yue Caixu , Li Xiaochen , Liu Xianli , Liang Steven Y.
Published: April 2021

Aiming at the breakage of tool and low precision of the machined surface in the high-speed milling process of titanium alloy, damage mechanics is used to reveal the formation mechanism of tool fatigue breakage during the milling and determine the critical condition of tool breakage. Cutting edge chipping caused by random impact fracture during the evolution of tool damage is the main failure form of tool fatigue breakage. Based on continuous damage mechanics, fatigue crack growth theory and sliding crack energy balance equation, the crack growth law of tool material is studied under different cutting impact, and the initial damage value and critical damage value of tool material fracture based on the interval method are obtained. And the impact fracture limit conditions of the end mill edge are established including cutting parameters, material hardness, tool damage, tool wear, and cutting impact, which provide a theoretical basis for determining the cutting parameters. A titanium alloy milling experiment is carried out to define the impact damage morphology of the tool in different states after the tool is damaged. The obtained tool safety area range is verified, and the research results provide parameter optimization for the high-speed and high-efficiency milling titanium alloy process.
DAP Inhibits the TNF-α-Induced Inflammatory Response by Modulating the MAPK Signaling Pathway in Synovial Cells
Authors: Wang Jieying , Kuang Nanzhen , zheng Mao , Dai Chan , Deng Huimin , Zeng Xiaoping , Fu yingyuan
Published: April 2021

Daphnetin(DAP) is extracted from Daphne odora var. marginata and contains coumarin compounds, which have a good anti-inflammatory analgesic effect. In this study, we investigated whether daphnetin can reduce the TNF-α-induced inflammatory response by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway in the synovial cells of CIA rats. A model of synovial cells was constructed using CIA rats induced by TNF-α. The expression of inflammatory cytokines in the synovial cells of CIA rats was observed by real-time PCR and ELISA. The expression and nuclear translocation of MAPK signaling pathway proteins were detected by Western blot and immunofluorescence assays. The results show that the mRNA and protein levels of IL-6, TGF-β, MMP-3 and MMP-13 were significantly lower than those in the culture supernatant of the model control group. The synovial cells of CIA rats induced by TNF-α exhibited decreased expression of p-p38, p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK in the nucleus. In conclusion, daphnetin can affect the activation of the MAPK signaling pathway and reduce the expression of inflammatory factors by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway, which plays a role in anti-rheumatic inflammation.
The current state of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs use and their influences on bipolar disorder outcomes-A small sample analysis
Authors: Chen Yiming , Wang Fan , Cui Lvchun , Huang Haijing , Kong Shuqi , Qian Nuoshi , Zhang Mengke , Lyu Dongbin , Wang Meiti , Liu Xiaohua , Cao Lan , Fang Yiru , Hong Wu
Published: April 2021

Background: Sleep disturbance and benzodiazepines (BZDs)/Z-drugs use are known to be common during affective episodes. Hence, we identified the probable outcomes of bipolar disorder that correlate with BZDs/Z-drugs use, aside from mood symptoms. We conducted an open-label, prospective study to describe the current use of BZDs and Z-drugs by patients with bipolar disorder during affective episodes. We evaluated the difference of characteristics between bipolar patients with sleep disturbance who chose BZDs/Z-drugs, and those who did not chose the drugs during and after affective disorder. The influences of BZDs/Z-drugs use on suicide attempt and psychotic symptoms during affective disorder were also investigated. Results: Seventy patients with current affective episodes were studied. Among them, 61 had sleep disturbances. The amount of mood stabilizers use in the BZDs/Z-drugs group was significantly greater than that in the no BZDs/Z-drugs group (p=0.038) during affective episodes. After affective episode, sleep disturbances, especially midnight wakes, became more improved in BZDs/Z-drugs group compared to the no BZDs/Z-drugs group. By contrast, attention and decisiveness became more improved in the no BZDs/Z-drugs group than in the BZDs/Z-drugs group. Furthermore, we observed that BZDs/Z-drugs had an OR of 4.338 (95% CI 1.068-17.623, p=0.040), and other psychiatric drugs had an OR of 1.835 (95% CI 1.105-3.047, p=0.019) in relation to suicide attempt. After nine months, we found that BZDs/Z-drugs use was of no significant effect to depressive or manic severity, or to recurrence rate.Conclusion: BZDs/Z-drugs use have no significant influence on variations in depressive or manic severity during the course of an affective episode. Nevertheless, BZDs/Z-drugs users took a greater amount of mood stabilizers than no BZDs/Z-drugs users. Finally, BZDs/Z-drugs or other psychiatric drugs polytherapy was regarded as a risk factor of suicide attempt during an affective episode.
A theoretically informed, mixed-methods study of pharmacists’ aspirations and readiness to implement pharmacist prescribing
Authors: Stewart Derek , Pallivalapila Abdulrouf , Thomas Binny , Hanssens Yolande , Kassem Wessam El , Nazar Zachariah , Hail Moza Al
Published: April 2021

Background Studies have highlighted advancing clinical pharmacy practice in Qatar. Objective To explore pharmacists’ aspirations and readiness to implement pharmacist prescribing. Setting Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), the main provider of secondary and tertiary care.Method A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. Questionnaire items were derived from the Consolidated Framework of Implementation Research (CFIR), in domains of: awareness/support; readiness; implementation; and facilitators and barriers. Following piloting, all pharmacists (n=554) were invited to participate. Questionnaire data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with principal component analysis (PCA) of attitudinal items. Focus groups were recorded, transcribed and analysed using the Framework Approach. Main outcome measure Aspirations and readiness to implement pharmacist prescribing. Results The response rate was 62.8% (n=348), with respondents highly supportive of implementation in Qatar (median 4, scale 0-5, extremely supportive). The majority (64.9%, n=226) considered themselves ready, particularly those more senior (p<0.05) and classifying themselves innovative (p<0.01). Outpatient (72.9%, n=221 agreeing) and inpatient (71.1%, n=218 agreeing) HMC settings were those perceived as being most ready. PCA identified 2 components, with ‘personal attributes’ being more positive than ‘prescribing support’. Facilitators were access to records, organizational/management support and the practice environment, with physician resistance and scope of practice as barriers. Focus groups provided explanation, with themes in CFIR domains of innovation characteristics, characteristics of individuals and the inner setting. Conclusion HMC pharmacists largely aspire, and consider themselves ready, to be prescribers with inpatient and outpatient settings most ready. CFIR domains and constructs identified as facilitators and barriers should be focus for implementation.
Oral administration of polystyrene microplastics for 2 weeks induces chronic constipation in ICR mice
Authors: Choi Yun Ju , Park Jun Woo , Kim Ji Eun , Lee Su Jin , Gong Jeong Eun , Jung Young Suk , Seo Sungbaek , Hwang Dae Youn
Published: April 2021

Objective: Indirect evidence has determined the possibility that microplastics (MP) induce constipation, although direct scientific proof for constipation induction in animals remains unclear. Thus, this study is aimed to investigate whether oral administration of polystyrene MP causes constipation.Methods: An alteration in the constipation parameters and their molecular mechanisms was analyzed in ICR mice treated with 0.5 μm polystyrene (PS)-MP for 2 weeks. Results: Significant alterations in water consumption, stool weight, stool water contents, and stool morphology were detected in MP treated ICR mice, as compared to Vehicle treated group. Also, the gastrointestinal (GI) motility and intestinal length were decreased, while the histopathological structure and cytological structure of the transverse colon were remarkably altered in treated mice. Mice exposed to MP also showed a significant decrease in the GI hormone concentration, muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) expression and their downstream signaling pathway, as well as mucin secretion and transcription of the MUC1, MUC2 and Klf4 genes. Subsequent to MP treatment, concentrations of chloride ion and expressions of its channel (CFTR and CIC-2) were decreased, whereas expressions of AQP3 and 8 for water transportation were downregulated by activation of the MAPK/NF-kB signaling pathway. These regulation on water and chloride transportation were verified in intestinal epithelioid cell line (IEC18) after MP treatment. Conclusion: These results are the first to suggest that oral administration of PS-MP induces chronic constipation through the dysregulation of GI motility, mucin secretion, and chloride ion and water transportation in the transverse colon.
Safety and preliminary efficacy of sequential multiple ascending doses of solnatide to treat pulmonary permeability edema in patients with moderate-to-severe ARDS - a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial
Authors: Schmid Benedikt , Kredel Markus , Ullrich Roman , Krenn Katharina , Lucas Rudolf , Markstaller Klaus , Fischer Bernhard , Kranke Peter , Meybohm Patrick , Zwißler Bernhard , Frank Sandra
Published: April 2021

Background Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a complex clinical diagnosis with various possible etiologies. One common feature, however, is pulmonary permeability edema, which leads to an increased alveolar diffusion pathway and, subsequently, impaired oxygenation and decarboxylation. A novel inhaled peptide agent (AP301, solnatide) was shown to markedly reduce pulmonary edema in animal models of ARDS and to be safe to administer to healthy humans in a phase-I clinical trial. Here, we present the protocol for a phase-IIB clinical trial investigating the safety and possible future efficacy endpoints in ARDS patients.Methods This is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind intervention study. Patients with moderate to severe ARDS in need of mechanical ventilation will be randomized to parallel groups receiving escalating doses of solnatide or placebo, respectively. Before advancing to a higher dose, a data safety monitoring board will investigate the data from previous patients for any indication of patient safety violations. The intervention (application of the investigational drug) takes places twice daily over the course of seven days, ensued by a follow-up period of another 21 days.Discussion The patients to be included in this trial will be severely sick and in need of mechanical ventilation. The amount of data to be collected upon screening and during the course of the intervention phase is substantial and the potential timeframe for inclusion of any given patient is short. However, when prepared properly, adherence to this protocol will make for the acquisition of reliable data. Particular diligence needs to be exercised with respect to informed consent, because eligible patients will most likely be comatose and/or deeply sedated at the time of inclusion.Trial registration: This trial was prospectively registered with the EU Clinical trials register (clinicaltrialsregister.eu). EudraCT Number: 2017-003855-47.
Diploid Genomic Architecture of Nitzschia Hildebrandi, An Elite Biomass Production Diatom
Authors: Oliver Aaron , Podell Sheila , Pinowska Agnieszka , Traller Jesse C. , Smith Sarah R. , McClure Ryan S , Beliaev Alexander S , Bohutskyi Pavlo , Hill Eric A. , Rabines Ariel , Zheng Hong , Allen Lisa Zeigler , Kuo Alan , Grigoriev Igor V. , Allen Andrew E. , Hazlebeck David , Allen Eric E.
Published: April 2021

A near-complete diploid nuclear genome and accompanying circular mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes have been assembled from the elite commercial diatom species Nitzschia hildebrandi. The 50 Mbp haploid size of the nuclear genome is nearly double that of model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum, but 30% smaller than closer relative Fragilariopsis cylindrus. Diploid assembly, which was facilitated by low levels of allelic heterozygosity (2.7%), included 14 candidate chromosome pairs composed of long, syntenic contigs, covering 93% of the total assembly. Telomeric ends were capped with an unusual 12-mer, G-rich, degenerate repeat sequence. Predicted proteins were highly enriched in strain-specific marker domains associated with cell-surface adhesion, biofilm formation, and raphe system gliding motility. Expanded species-specific families of carbonic anhydrases suggest potential enhancement of carbon concentration efficiency, and duplicated glycolysis and fatty acid synthesis pathways across cytosolic and organellar compartments may enhance peak metabolic output, contributing to competitive success over other organisms in mixed cultures. The N. hildebrandi genome delivers a robust new reference for future functional and transcriptomic studies to illuminate the physiology of benthic pennate diatoms and harness their unique adaptations to support commercial algae biomass and bioproduct production.
Convolutional Neural Network for Classification of Eight types of Arrhythmia using 2D Time-Frequency Feature Map from Standard 12-Lead Electrocardiogram
Authors: Jeong Da Un , Lim Ki Moo
Published: April 2021

Electrocardiograms (ECGs) are widely used for diagnosing cardiac arrhythmia based on the deformation of signal shapes due to changes in various heart diseases. However, these abnormal signs may not be observed in some of the 12 ECG channels, depending on the location or shape of the heart and the type of cardiac arrhythmia. Therefore, to accurately diagnose cardiac arrhythmias, it is necessary to closely and comprehensively observe ECG signals acquired from 12 channel electrodes. In this study, we proposed a clustering algorithm that can classify persistent cardiac arrhythmia as well as episodic cardiac arrhythmias using the standard 12-lead ECG signals and the 2D CNN model using the time-frequency feature maps to classify the eight types of arrhythmias including normal sinus rhythm. The standard 12-lead ECG dataset was provided by Computing in Cardiology 2020 Physionet Challenge and consisted of 6,877 patients. The proposed algorithm showed excellent performance in the classification of persistent cardiac arrhythmias; however, its accuracy was somewhat low in the classification of episodic arrhythmias. If our proposed model is trained and verified using more clinical data, we believe it can be used as an auxiliary device for diagnosing cardiac arrhythmias.
Endoscopic Versus Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in 1-Segment Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Prospective Randomised Pilot Study
Authors: Lv You , Chen Ming , Qin Ru-Jie , Ma Cheng , Ding Qi-Rui , Qin Hao-Nan , Chen Jing-Yang , Wang Shou-Lin , Ren Yongxin
Published: April 2021

BackgroundThere are currently several minimally invasive techniques for lumbar spine interbody fusion that have been shown to minimize surgical and perioperative morbidity. We aimed to evaluate the curative efficacy of endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (Endo-TLIF) by comparing perioperative characteristics and 1.5-year observational outcomes in 1-segment lumbar spondylolisthesis between the minimally invasive TLIF (MIS-TLIF) technique and the optimized Endo-TLIF technique. MethodsOne hundred and two patients treated by MIS-TLIF (48 cases) or Endo-TLIF (54 cases) were included from January 2017 to January 2019. Perioperative parameters and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Inflammatory biomarkers were measured for postoperative traumatic stress and muscle injury. Fusion rates were determined at 18 months after surgery by CT and the necessity of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) application in Endo-TLIF was also observed. ResultsThe Endo-TLIF group had similar incision length, return to work time and rate (p>0.05). Blood loss, left bed time and analgesic ratio were significantly less in Endo-TLIF group (p<0.05). The Endo-TLIF group had a significantly longer operative and radiation exposure time compared with MIS-TLIF group (p<0.05). The CRP and ESR levels were lower in the Endo-TLIF group compared with the MIS-TLIF group (p<0.05). The VAS and ODI improved significantly in both groups after surgery. Significant decreases in low back VAS in the Endo-TLIF group were found at postoperative day 1 and 3 months after surgery (p<0.05). The fusion rate in the Endo-TLIF/rhBMP-2 group (75%) was lower than that in the MIS-TLIF group (95.8%)，but it was similar to that in the Endo-TLIF/rhBMP-2 group (90%).Conclusions﻿Endo-TLIF has comparable perioperative analysis and clinical outcomes in comparison to MIS-TLIF and manifests a greater improvement in less multifidus muscle damage, inflammation and faster patient recovery. Thus, Endo-TLIF should be considered as a feasible and effective technique for 1-segment lumbar spondylolisthesis patients.Trial registration: ChiCTR1800015197, 13 March 2018. Trial registry: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry.
Assessment of mortality-related risk factors and effective antimicrobial regimens for the treatment of bloodstream infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales
Authors: Chen Liang , Han Xiudi , Li YanLi
Published: April 2021

Background
Bloodstream infections (BSIs) attributable to carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE-BSIs) are dangerous and a major cause of mortality in clinical settings. This study was therefore designed to define risk factors linked to 30-day mortality in CRE-BSI patients and to examine the relative efficacy of different antimicrobial treatment regimens in affected individuals.
Methods
Data pertaining to 187 CRE-BSI cases from three teaching hospitals in China collected between January 2018 and June 2020 were retrospectively analyzed.
Results
For the 187 analyzed patients in this study, the 30-day mortality of CRE-BSI was 41.7% (78/187). Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that Pitt score [odd ratio (OR) 5.313, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.209–8.797, P < 0.001], immunocompromised status (OR 4.605, 95% CI 1.629–13.020, P = 0.004), meropenem minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ≥ 8 mg/L (OR 3.736, 95% CI 1.091–12.795, P = 0.036), source control of infection (OR 0.316, 95% CI 0.117–0.854, P = 0.023), and appropriate empirical therapy (OR 0.129, 95% CI 0.027–0.625, P = 0.011) were independent predictors of CRE-BSI patient 30-day mortality. After controlling for potential confounding factors, relative to ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ-AVI) treatment, combination therapies including CAZ-AVI (OR 1.287, 95% CI 0.124–13.403, P = 0.833) were not related to any significant change in patient mortality risk, whereas 30-day mortality risk was higher for patients administered other antimicrobial regimens (OR 12.407, 95% CI 1.684–31.430, P = 0.011). When patients were treated with antimicrobial regimens not containing CAZ-AVI, combination therapy (OR 0.239, 95% CI 0.077–0.741, P = 0.013) was related to a decreased 30-day mortality risk relative to monotherapy treatment.
Conclusion
The mortality-related risk factors and relative antimicrobial regimen efficacy data demonstrated in this study may guide the management of CRE-BSI patients.
Water treatment to reduce the porosity of nanowebs
Authors: Aghayari Sedigheh
Published: April 2021

Here a way used to reduce the porosity of the electrospun web which removed PVA nanofibers from PVA/PA6 hybrid nanoweb by water treatment. Measuring the porosity of the electrospun web before and after treatment by BET method and image processing, proved this. The specific surface area of the web 70 % reduced after water treatment.
Folic Acid Fortification of Double Fortified Salt
Authors: Modupe Oluwasegun , Siddiqui Juveria , Jonnalagadda Akhila , Diosady Levente
Published: April 2021

The addition of folic acid to Double Fortified Salt aims to ameliorate iron, iodine, and folic acid deficiencies in vulnerable populations. Folic acid was added either to the iodine spray solution or to the iron premix used to prepare salt fortified with iron and iodine. When added through the solution, sodium carbonate was needed to dissolve folic acid and to adjust pH. Alternately, folic acid was added either to the iron core or sandwiched between the core and the TiO2 layer of the ferrous fumarate premix. Folic acid and iodine were stable in all three cases, retaining more than 70% of the added micronutrients after six months at 45 oC/ 60-70% RH. Adding folic acid to the premix's iron core is preferred as folic acid retention was slightly higher, and the added folic acid did not impact a yellow colour to the salt. Folic acid in this salt was stable in cooking and did not affect selected cooked foods' sensory properties. The technology is a cost-effective approach for simultaneously combating iron, iodine, and folic acid deficiencies.
Right versus left ventricular remodeling in heart failure due to chronic volume overload: pressure-volume and proteome analysis
Authors: Havlenova Tereza , Skaroupkova Petra , Miklovic Matus , Behounek Matej , Chmel Martin , Jarkovska Dagmar , Sviglerova Jitka , Stengl Milan , Kolar Michal , Novotny Jiri , Benes Jan , Cervenka Ludek , Petrak Jiri , Melenovsky Vojtech
Published: April 2021

Mechanisms of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in heart failure (HF) are poorly understood. RV response to volume overload (VO), a common contributing factor to HF, is rarely studied. The goal was to identify interventricular differences in response to chronic VO. Rats underwent aorto-caval fistula (ACF)/sham operation to induce VO. After 24 weeks, RV and left ventricular (LV) functions, gene expression and proteomics were studied. ACF led to biventricular dilatation, systolic dysfunction and hypertrophy affecting relatively more RV. Increased RV afterload contributed to larger RV stroke work increment compared to LV. Both ACF ventricles displayed upregulation of genes of myocardial stress and metabolism. Most proteins reacted to VO in a similar direction in both ventricles, yet the expression changes were more pronounced in RV. The most upregulated were extracellular matrix (POSTN, NRAP, TGM2, CKAP4), cell adhesion (NCAM, NRAP, XIRP2) and cytoskeletal proteins (FHL1, CSRP3) and enzymes of carbohydrate (PKM) or norepinephrine (MAOA) metabolism. Downregulated were MYH6 and FAO enzymes. Therefore, when exposed to identical VO, both ventricles display similar upregulation of stress and metabolic markers. RV reacts to ACF relatively more than LV due to concomitant pulmonary hypertension. No evidence supports RV chamber-specific regulation of protein expression in response to VO.