bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of trough concentrations suffice for optimizing preemptive therapy with ganciclovir of cytomegalovirus infections in non‐renal solid organ transplant recipients?
Authors: Gatti Milo , Rinaldi Matteo , Potena Luciano , Salvaterra Elena , Morelli Maria Cristina , Giannella Maddalena , Viale Pierluigi , Pea Federico
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study is to explore the relationship between ganciclovir exposure and clinical efficacy and/or safety in non‐renal solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients receiving preemptive therapy with ganciclovir/valganciclovir and undergoing therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM)‐guided dosing optimization.

Methods

Non‐renal SOT recipients admitted to IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria of Bologna receiving preemptive therapy with ganciclovir or valganciclovir for active cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and who underwent at least one TDM were included. Desired ganciclovir Cmin range was set at 1–3 mg/L, and average ganciclovir trough concentrations (Cmin) were calculated for each patient. Reduced CMV viral load below the lower limit of quantification (LLQ) at 30 days and occurrence of myelotoxicity were selected as the primary outcome. Univariate analysis was performed by comparing patients with average Cmin below or above 1 or 3 mg/L. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to identify the average ganciclovir Cmin cut‐off predictive for clinical efficacy or toxicity.

Results

Twenty‐nine out of 89 retrieved patients met the inclusion criteria, with a median (interquartile [IQR]) baseline CMV viral load of 27,163 copies/mL (IQR 13 159.75–151 340.25 copies/mL). Reduced CMV viral load below the LLQ at 30 days was found in 17 patients (58.6%). No difference was found in the primary outcome between patients showing average Cmin below or above 1 mg/L (100.0% vs. 53.8%; p = .25) and/or 3 mg/L (65.2% vs. 33.3%; p = .20). ROC analysis did not allow to identify an average Cmin cut‐off predictive of clinical efficacy or toxicity.

Conclusions

No clear relationship between ganciclovir Cmin and neither CMV eradication nor safety issues was identified.

image
Regional enlarged controllability of a fractional derivative of an output linear system
Authors: Larhrissi Rachid , Benoudi Mustapha
Published: July 2023

This new research aims to extend the topic of the enlarged controllability of a fractional output linear system. Thus, we characterize the optimal control by two methods, ensuring that the Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative of the final state of the considered system lies between two given functions on a subregion of the evolution domain. Firstly, we transform the considered problem into the saddle point using the Lagrangian multiplier approach. Then, in the second one, we provide the technique of the subdifferential, which allows us to present the cost-explicit formula of the minimum energy control. Moreover, we construct an algorithm of Uzawa type to illustrate the theoretical results obtained through numerical simulations.
Some stability results on non-linear singular differential systems with random impulsive moments
Authors: Vinodkumar Arumugam , Harinie Sivakumar , Fečkan Michal , Alzabut Jehad
Published: July 2023

This paper studies the exponential stability for random impulsive non-linear singular differential systems. We established some new sufficient conditions for the proposed singular differential system by using the Lyapunov function method with random impulsive time points. Further, to validate the theoretical results' effectiveness, we finally gave two numerical examples that study with graphical illustration and an additional example involving matrices with complex entries, proving the results to be true in that case as well.
Draft genome sequence of
Lactobacillus helveticus
OSU-BDGOAK2 and
Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens
OSU-BDGOA1, kefir grain isolates with potential antibacterial activity
Authors: González-Orozco Brianda D. , Santiago-Rodriguez Tasha M. , García-Cano Israel , Jiménez-Flores Rafael , Alvarez Valente B.
Published: August 2023

We present the draft genome sequence and assembly of
Lactobacillus helveticus
OSU-BDGOAK2 and
Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens
OSU-BDGOA1 isolated from kefir grains that exhibited
in vitro
antibacterial activity against
Escherichia coli
ATCC 25922,
Listeria innocua
ATCC 51742, and
Staphylococcus epidermidis
ATCC 1222. Genome analysis of both strains revealed gene clusters encoding bacteriocins.
Extensive cellular multi-tasking within
Bacillus subtilis
biofilms
Authors: Yannarell Sarah M. , Beaudoin Eric S. , Talley Hunter S. , Schoenborn Alexi A. , Orr Galya , Anderton Christopher R. , Chrisler William B. , Shank Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2023

Bacillus subtilis
is a soil-dwelling bacterium that can form biofilms, or communities of cells surrounded by a self-produced extracellular matrix. In biofilms, genetically identical cells often exhibit heterogeneous transcriptional phenotypes, so that subpopulations of cells carry out essential yet costly cellular processes that allow the entire population to thrive. Surprisingly, the extent of phenotypic heterogeneity and the relationships between subpopulations of cells within biofilms of even in well-studied bacterial systems like
B. subtilis
remains largely unknown. To determine relationships between these subpopulations of cells, we created 182 strains containing pairwise combinations of fluorescent transcriptional reporters for the expression state of 14 different genes associated with potential cellular subpopulations. We determined the spatial organization of the expression of these genes within biofilms using confocal microscopy, which revealed that many reporters localized to distinct areas of the biofilm, some of which were co-localized. We used flow cytometry to quantify reporter co-expression, which revealed that many cells “multi-task,” simultaneously expressing two reporters. These data indicate that prior models describing
B. subtilis
cells as differentiating into specific cell types, each with a specific task or function, were oversimplified. Only a few subpopulations of cells, including surfactin and plipastatin producers, as well as sporulating and competent cells, appear to have distinct roles based on the set of genes examined here. These data will provide us with a framework with which to further study and make predictions about the roles of diverse cellular phenotypes in
B. subtilis
biofilms.

IMPORTANCE

Many microbes differentiate, expressing diverse phenotypes to ensure their survival in various environments. However, studies on phenotypic differentiation have typically examined only a few phenotypes at one time, thus limiting our knowledge about the extent of differentiation and phenotypic overlap in the population. We investigated the spatial organization and gene expression relationships for genes important in
B. subtilis
biofilms. In doing so, we mapped spatial gene expression patterns and expanded the number of cell populations described in the
B. subtilis
literature. It is likely that other bacteria also display complex differentiation patterns within their biofilms. Studying the extent of cellular differentiation in other microbes may be important when designing therapies for disease-causing bacteria, where studying only a single phenotype may be masking underlying phenotypic differentiation relevant to infection outcomes.
Laramide bulldozing of lithosphere beneath the Arizona transition zone, southwestern United States
Authors: Kapp Paul , Jepson Gilby , Carrapa Barbara , Schaen Allen J. , He John J.Y. , Wang Jordan W.
Published: August 2023

The northwest-trending transition zone (TZ) in Arizona (southwestern United States) is an ~100-km-wide physiographic province that separates the relatively undeformed southwestern margin of the Colorado Plateau from the hyperextended Basin and Range province to the southwest. The TZ is widely depicted to have been a Late Cretaceous–Paleogene northeast-dipping erosional slope along which Proterozoic rocks were denuded but not significantly deformed. Our multi-method thermochronological study (biotite 40Ar/39Ar, zircon and apatite [U-Th-Sm]/He, and apatite fission track) of Proterozoic rocks in the Bradshaw Mountains of the west-central Arizona TZ reveals relatively rapid cooling (~10 °C/m.y.) from temperatures of >180 °C to <60 °C between ca. 70 and ca. 50 Ma. Given minimal ca. 70–50 Ma upper-crustal shortening in the TZ, we attribute cooling to exhumation driven by northeastward bulldozing of continental lower crust and mantle lithosphere beneath it by the Farallon flat slab. Bulldozing is consistent with contemporaneous (ca. 70–50 Ma) underplating and initial exhumation of Orocopia Schist to the southwest in western Arizona and Mesozoic garnet-clinopyroxenite xenoliths of possible Mojave batholith keel affinity in ca. 25 Ma TZ volcanic rocks.
“是华人，又不是华人”
Authors: 王 纯强
Published: July 2023

本文透过南来作家丘士珍于1932年发表的短篇小说《峇峇与娘惹》来揭示中国人对于海峡殖民地土生华人的印象与成见。表面上看，《峇峇与娘惹》叙述的是一个峇峇家庭道德败坏与没落的故事；然而在表层底下，它其实是作者对整个海峡华人社会不加掩饰的谴责。对丘氏而言，海峡华人已沦为“非华人”，而他们对中国文化的蔑视与排斥更是其道德沦丧的主要原因。今天学者们普遍使用海峡华人一词来解释他们与中国人渐行渐远的根源。但本文所要论证的是：海峡华人与中国人固然因为文化差异而产生敌意和磨擦，但他们之间的矛盾更受到社会变革、经济竞争和不同政治效忠的影响而加剧。因此，丘士珍的创作是离不开特定历史背景的。
Pre-trained Language Models in Biomedical Domain: A Systematic Survey
Authors: Wang Benyou , Xie Qianqian , Pei Jiahuan , Chen Zhihong , Tiwari Prayag , Li Zhao , Fu Jie
Published: August 2023

Pre-trained language models (PLMs) have been the de facto paradigm for most natural language processing tasks. This also benefits the biomedical domain: researchers from informatics, medicine, and computer science communities propose various PLMs trained on biomedical datasets, e.g., biomedical text, electronic health records, protein, and DNA sequences for various biomedical tasks. However, the cross-discipline characteristics of biomedical PLMs hinder their spreading among communities; some existing works are isolated from each other without comprehensive comparison and discussions. It is nontrivial to make a survey that not only systematically reviews recent advances in biomedical PLMs and their applications but also standardizes terminology and benchmarks. This article summarizes the recent progress of pre-trained language models in the biomedical domain and their applications in downstream biomedical tasks. Particularly, we discuss the motivations of PLMs in the biomedical domain and introduce the key concepts of pre-trained language models. We then propose a taxonomy of existing biomedical PLMs that categorizes them from various perspectives systematically. Plus, their applications in biomedical downstream tasks are exhaustively discussed, respectively. Last, we illustrate various limitations and future trends, which aims to provide inspiration for the future research.
Photocatalytic and Biological Activities of Spherical Shape Cellulose/Silver Nanocomposites Using Xenostegia tridentata (L.) Leaf Extract
Authors: Chinnadurai Shanmugam , Saravanan Sathishkumar , Chinnathambi Sridevi , Sivalingam Sivakumar , Poongavanam Govindhan , Ganarajan Sivasubramanian , Krishnan Baskaran , Bera Parthasarathi , Veembil Ramachandra Iyer Parameswaran , Mitu Liviu
Published: July 2023

A novel green synthesis of cellulose/Ag nanocomposites (Cell/XTLL Ag NCs) with in situ generated silver nanoparticles using Xenostegia tridentata (L.) leaf extracts (XTLL). The synthesized nanocomposites have been appreciably characterized by SEM, TEM, FT-IR, XRD, UV-Vis spectrometer, AFM, DRS, XPS, TGA, and ICP-OES. The Ag nanoparticles found for the Cell/XTLL 60 mM AgNO3 have an average particle size of 33.78 nm. Moreover, Cell/XTLL Ag NC film, prepared with 60 mM AgNO3, suggests greater antioxidant activity. The most potent cell/XTLL 60 mM AgNO3 against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Trichoderma viride, and Fusarium oxysporum has strong antimicrobial activity and the best antimicrobial properties due to the fact that because the concentration of AgNO3 solution increased, the zone of inhibition additionally accelerated. The Cell/XTLL 60 mM becomes examined in vitro for its ability of human tumor cell growth inhibitory impact on human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 using MTT assay. The catalytic activity of Cell/XTLL 60 mM AgNO3 was assessed by the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and compared with bare cellulose. The Ag NPs are homogeneously unfolded out in Cell/XTLL 60 mM AgNO3 which leads to low electron-hole recombination and accelerated dye adsorption. In particular, 100 mg of Cell/XTLL 60 mM AgNO3, as catalyst, showed excellent photocatalytic activity with the efficiency of 91% degradation of methylene blue (MB).
A Novel Electric Vehicle Battery Management System Using an Artificial Neural Network-Based Adaptive Droop Control Theory
Authors: Afzal Muhammad Zeshan , Aurangzeb Muhammad , Iqbal Sheeraz , Pushkarna Mukesh , Rehman Anis Ur , Kotb Hossam , AboRas Kareem M. , Alshammari Nahar F. , Bajaj Mohit , Bereznychenko Viktoriia
Published: July 2023

The novelty of this research lies in the development of a new battery management system (BMS) for electric vehicles, which utilizes an artificial neural network (ANN) and fuzzy logic-based adaptive droop control theory. This innovative approach offers several advantages over traditional BMS systems, such as decentralized control architecture, communication-free capability, and improved reliability. The proposed BMS control system incorporates an adaptive virtual admittance, which adjusts the value of the virtual admittance based on the current state of charge (SOC) of each battery cell. This allows the connected battery cells to share the load evenly during charging and discharging, which improves the overall performance and efficiency of the electric vehicle. The effectiveness of the proposed control structure was verified through simulation and experimental prototype testing with three linked battery cells. The small signal model testing demonstrated the stability of the control, while the experimental results confirmed the system’s ability to evenly distribute the load among battery cells during charging and discharging. We introduce a unique battery management system (BMS) for electric cars in this paper. Our suggested BMS was implemented and tested satisfactorily on a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. When compared to typical BMS systems, the results show a surprising 15% increase in overall energy efficiency. Furthermore, the adaptive virtual admission function resulted in a 20% boost in battery life. These large gains in energy efficiency and battery longevity demonstrate our BMS’s efficacy and superiority over competing systems. Overall, the proposed BMS represents a significant innovation in the field of electric vehicle battery management. This combination of ANN and adaptive droop control theory based on fuzzy logic provides a highly efficient, reliable, and economical solution for EV battery cell management.
The Nature and Quality of Support from Informal Networks for Informal Caregivers of Low-Grade Glioma Patients: A Qualitative Analysis within the Ways Ahead Study
Authors: Murrell Andrew James , Rimmer Ben , Dutton Lizzie , Lewis Joanne , Burns Richéal , Gallagher Pamela , Williams Sophie , Araújo-Soares Vera , Finch Tracy , Sharp Linda
Published: July 2023

Objective. Those closest to the patients with low-grade glioma (LGG) often become informal caregivers (ICs). Caregiving demands can impact ICs’ wellbeing, meaning they themselves may require support. We explored the nature and quality of support from informal networks for ICs of LGG patients. Methods. In this cross-sectional qualitative study, semistructured interviews were conducted with individuals from the United Kingdom who currently, or in the past five years, informally cared for someone diagnosed with an LGG. Interviews explored ICs’ experiences of receiving support from informal networks. Thematic analysis was undertaken. Results. Nineteen ICs were interviewed (mean age 54.6 years; 5 males, 14 females). ICs received multiple forms of support from their informal networks: emotional (e.g., “opportunities to talk”), instrumental (e.g., “opportunities for relief”), information (e.g., “information from network contacts”), and appraisal (e.g., “comparisons with similar others”). Networks comprised strong/familiar (e.g., close friends) and weaker/unfamiliar (e.g., other ICs) ties. Supportive networks were perceived to help protect ICs’ wellbeing. Participants perceived challenges such as poor understanding and unsolicited advice to weaken the quality of support. Conclusion. Informal networks can provide wide-ranging support for ICs of the LGG patients. Different supports may be sought or provided from different contacts, highlighting the importance and value of extended networks.
Biosorption of Congo Red Dye from Aqueous Solution Using Adsorbent Prepared from Vangueria infausta Fruit Pericarp
Authors: Kitemangu Aisha , Vegi Maheswara Rao , Malima Nyemaga Masanje
Published: July 2023

The adsorption efficiency of acid-treated Vangueria infausta fruit pericarp (VIFP) biosorbent to uptake Congo red (CR) dye was investigated through batch experiments. Optimum conditions for the adsorption process were determined by varying the solution pH, biosorbent dosage, contact time, initial concentration of CR dye, and temperature. Results revealed that the data fits well with the Langmuir isotherm model, demonstrating the monolayer coverage of the CR dye molecule on the surface of the VIFP biosorbent. The higher value of correlation coefficient, [Formula: see text] for pseudo-second-order (0.9997) compared to [Formula: see text] of pseudo-first-order (0.9605) suggests that the pseudo-second-order kinetic model is an ideal fit in describing the kinetics of CR dye adsorption by VIFP biosorbent. The positive value of [Formula: see text] (41.42 kJ/mol) and [Formula: see text] (158.32 J/mol.K) depicts the endothermic nature and spontaneity of the biosorption of CR dye by VIFP. The values of [Formula: see text] obtained were negative, showing that the adsorption is thermodynamically favourable. Therefore, the acid-treated adsorbent from Vangueria infausta can efficiently be used in the removal of CR dye from aqueous solution.
CuFeO2/Cu Photoelectrode Modified with SrTiO3 Perovskite for Efficient Hydrogen Generation from Sanitation Water
Authors: Ahmed Aya , Ahmed Ashour M. , Abdel-Khaliek Ahmed A. , Shaban Mohamed , Abdelazeez Ahmed Adel A. , Rabia Mohamed
Published: July 2023

We prepared a perovskite material, copper-doped strontium titanate (Cu-SrTiO3), using the chemical bath deposition method and cast it on a CuFeO2/Cu photoelectrode to generate hydrogen from sanitation water splitting. This preparation method considers a simple mass product and does not depend on complex techniques. The prepared perovskite materials had a compact nano-/microstructure. Both CuFeO2 and Cu-SrTiO3/CuFeO2 exhibited excellent optical properties, with bandgap values of 1.4 and 1.26 eV, respectively. Here, the prepared CuFeO2 and Cu-SrTiO3 thin films are used as photoelectrodes for hydrogen generation, and their current-voltage relationship is analyzed under various conditions, such as different light intensities, wavelengths, and temperatures. This approach is promising for using wastewater as a source of hydrogen gas without requiring any additional electrolyte, making it a dual-purpose approach for both hydrogen generation and wastewater treatment. Through the electrochemical study, increasing the light intensity from 25 to 100 mW.cm-2 resulted in a corresponding increase in the produced

J

ph

values from -1.02 to -1.292 mA.cm-2. Similarly, the

J

ph

values increased from -1.25 to -1.91 mA.cm-2 as the temperature increased from 30 to 70°C. We also calculated all thermodynamic parameters, the quantum efficiency (QE), and incident photon to current conversion efficiency (IPCE). For the Cu-SrTiO3/CuFeO2/Cu photoelectrode, the activation energy (

E

a

) value was 14.14 kJ mol-1, while the

Δ

H

∗

and

Δ

S

∗

values were 11.46 kJ·mol-1 and 34.9 kJ-1·mol-1, respectively. Additionally, the IPCE value was 3.31%. The prepared photoelectrode showed high stability and low cost, making it a potential candidate for industrial applications.
Layout and Parameter Analysis of the Cooling System with Mine Water as Cold Source in Linglong Gold Mine
Authors: Wang Chunlong , Zhao Hongkai , Cheng Li , Li Guilin , Fan Yuyun , Jiang Mingwei , Hao Yingjie , Shao Kun
Published: July 2023

As the heat hazard problem in the deep mine becomes more prominent, it is difficult to alleviate the high-temperature problem by increasing the air supply and adjusting the ventilation mode alone. In order to solve the issue of heat damage in the Linglong Gold Mine, a cooling system based on water source heat pump technology and utilizing the return air system to exhaust heat was constructed, and each system was rationally arranged in conjunction with the mine’s actual conditions. The reasonable critical threshold of cooling system parameters is then determined by numerical simulation and field application verification. The results indicate that the closed cycle adopted by the cooling system can effectively solve the problem of groundwater shortage. The heat can be discharged directly to the return air shaft to prevent the impact of secondary heat hazards. The temperature near the working face can be reduced from 35°C to below 28°C. This system effectively resolves the issues of water shortage, heat release, and cold transfer in the water source heat pump technology and provides a reference for the application of other mines.
Time Series Compression for IoT: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: de Oliveira Marcos A. , da Rocha Anderson M. , Puntel Fernando E. , Cavalheiro Gerson Geraldo H.
Published: August 2023

Time series are widely used to record information in applications developed with Internet of Things (IoT) devices, where sensors are used to collect large amounts of data. These devices, even with the exponential technological evolution of the last years, present limitations for the handling of this data given the enormous volume of data collected. Low storage or processing capacity and environments with restricted connection resources make it difficult to manipulate and transmit information. In this context, compression of information collected in the format of time series can be an alternative to reduce the amount of data handled by devices. However, given the peculiarities of IoT devices and applications, the compression process cannot be more costly than handling raw data. To identify the existing solutions to compress time series for IoT applications. In this paper, we present a descriptive systematic literature review on this topic. Based on a well-defined protocol, 40 papers were selected for review to analyze the strategies used, as well as performance and limitations. In this review, we aim to identify different approaches to solving the problem of data compression in the context addressed, as well as identifying directions for future research. The use of performance metrics in the reviewed papers was also reported in detail, to better understand how the authors compare their solutions to others. Additionally, the relationship between time series compression and machine learning (ML) techniques was highlighted. Being aware of the state-of-the-art in time series compression solutions for IoT can help us project future trends and challenges regarding this process and also to identify which algorithms, methods, and techniques can best be used in combination with ML models, the purpose inherent to the IoT context.
The Common PKD1 p.(Ile3167Phe) Variant Is Hypomorphic and Associated with Very Early Onset, Biallelic Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Durkie Miranda , Watson Christopher M. , Winship Peter , Hogg Anne-Cecile , Nyanhete Rodney , Cooley Sharon , Valluru Manoj K. , Shaw-Smith Charles , Bingham Coralie , Gilchrist Mark , Kenny Janna , Consortium Genomics England Research , Ong Albert C. M.
Published: July 2023

Biallelic PKD1 variants, including hypomorphic variants, can cause very early onset polycystic kidney disease (VEO-PKD). A family with unexplained recurrent VEO-PKD and neonatal demise in one dizygotic twin was referred for clinical testing. Further individuals with the putative hypomorphic PKD1 variant, p.(Ile3167Phe), were identified from the UK 100,000 genomes project (100 K), UK Biobank (UKBB), and a review of the literature. We identified a likely pathogenic PKD1 missense paternal variant and the putative hypomorphic PKD1 variant from the unaffected mother in the deceased twin but only the paternal PKD1 variant in the surviving dizygotic twin. Analysis of 100 K cases identified a second family with two siblings with similar biallelic inheritance who presented at birth with VEO-PKD and reached kidney failure in their teens unlike other affected relatives. Finally, a survey of 618 UKBB cases confirmed that adult patients monoallelic for PKD1 p.(Ile3167Phe) had normal kidney function. Our data reveals that p.(Ile3167Phe) is the second most common PKD1 hypomorphic variant identified and is neutral in heterozygosity but is associated with VEO-PKD when inherited in trans with a pathogenic PKD1 variant. Care should be taken to ensure that it is not automatically filtered from sequence data for VEO cases.
“The Service, I Could Not Do without It…”: A Qualitative Study Exploring the Significance of Meals on Wheels among Service Users and People Who Refer Them to the Service
Authors: Papadaki Angeliki , Wakeham Mary , Ali Becky , Elaine Glynis Armstrong Miranda , Cameron Ailsa , Willis Paul
Published: July 2023

Meals on Wheels (MoWs) is a social care service providing daily meals and social contact to adults who need support to live in the community. Considering the rising number of adults who need help with shopping for food and preparing meals in England, MoWs could be essential for these individuals; yet little is known about the experiences of MoWs service users and people who refer them to MoWs (“referrers”), with the service. The aim of this study was to explore different dimensions of the MoWs service from the perspectives of MoWs service users and referrers. Semistructured interviews were conducted in May–July 2022 with seven service users and 21 referrers, recruited from four MoWs providers across England, and analysed thematically. Participants indicated that benefits of the service encompassed the daily provision of a hot, nutritious meal, an informal welfare check, the service’s efficiency and reliability in promoting independent living and reducing pressures on families and carers, and the daily friendly interactions in reducing social isolation. The pandemic was not perceived to have affected participants’ experiences with MoWs but longer interactions between drivers who deliver the meals and service users would be welcomed to reduce isolation further. Despite the cost-of-living crisis and an increase in MoWs prices, participants perceived that MoWs are value-for-money due to the social care benefits derived from the service. The wide range of benefits exerted by MoWs suggests that the service should be recognised as a crucial preventative resource in maintaining the wellbeing and independence of adults with care and support needs and suggests that MoWs forms an essential part of the care package that people with care and support needs receive in England.
Effects of Ionization on the Filtration of Fine and Ultrafine Particles in Indoor Air
Authors: Muthukrishnan Pranav , Farahi Faramarz
Published: July 2023

As we spend approximately 80% of our time indoors, improving indoor air quality is necessary to lessen the spread and impacts of respiratory diseases and other health issues caused by particle pollution. Currently, in many countries, the primary method of cleaning indoor air is by using better, higher-grade filters in a recirculating air system or increasing ventilation with outdoor air. One way to supplement these time-tested approaches is by implementing ionization. We used a bipolar ionizer to test the removal efficiency of filters on different particle sizes with and without ionization. Calibrated cigarettes were used to generate smoke into a 28-cubic-meter chamber with a recirculating air handling system. It was found that ionization had a 275% increase in the removal efficiency of the most penetrating particle sizes (100-500 nm). We conclude that ionization drastically improves the filter removal efficiency of fine and ultrafine particles in indoor environments.
Effects of Oral Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation on Protein Metabolism and Inflammation in Iraqi Hemodialysis Patients: An Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rasheed Zina A. , AL-Hashemi Ban A. , Ali Ala A.
Published: July 2023

Background. The effect of correcting metabolic acidosis on protein metabolism in hemodialysis patients is controversial. Objectives. To study the effects of oral sodium bicarbonate on protein metabolism and markers of inflammation in acidotic hemodialysis patients. Patients and Methods. An open-label randomized controlled trial was conducted at a single center. Sixty-six clinically stable adult hemodialysis patients were recruited with an average predialysis serum bicarbonate level of <22 mmol/l and a dialysate bicarbonate concentration of 35 mmol/l. Forty-nine participants have completed the study. Oral sodium bicarbonate tablets of 500 mg were given daily in the intervention group (n = 25) for 12 weeks versus the standard of care in the control group (n = 24). Outcomes compared intervention versus nonintervention in both groups at equivalent time points (0 and 3 months). The clinical data, anthropometry, dialysis adequacy, albumin, normalized protein catabolism rate, blood gas analysis, and bicarbonate were recorded at 0 and 3 months. In addition, muscle mass and handgrip strength were measured. Finally, IL-6 as a marker of inflammation was measured at randomization and three months. Results. Serum bicarbonate and pH increased significantly from 17.57 ± 3.34 mmol/L to 20.69 ± 2.54 mmol/L and from 7.26 ± 0.06 to 7.34 ± 0.04, respectively (

p
<
0.0001

). Serum albumin was significantly higher in the intervention group at three months than in the control group, 4.11 ± 0.45 vs. 3.79 ± 0.47 (

p

value 0.011). Serum potassium significantly decreased in the intervention group at three months compared to the control group, 5.00 ± 0.43 mEq/l vs. 5.33 ± 0.63 mEq/l (

p

value 0.03). Muscle strength expressed as handgrip has improved significantly in the intervention group at three months compared to the control group, 45.01 ± 19.19 vs. 33.93 ± 15.06 (

p

value 0.03). The IL-6 values were less in the intervention group at 3 months with a

p

value of 0.01. The interdialytic weight of the intervention group at three months was 2.42 ± 0.64 compared to the 2.20 ± 1.14 control group, but this did not reach statistical significance (

p

value of 0.4). The composite of (albumin + nPCR) at three months was achieved in 59.18% of the intervention group compared to 14.28% with a

p

value of 0.01. Conclusions. Correcting metabolic acidosis in hemodialysis patients improved serum albumin and nPCR without hypokalemia or significant interdialytic weight gain. This was particularly evident in patients with minimal inflammation with low IL-6 values.
SUOH 03 Guidewire for the Management of Coronary Artery Dissection: Insights from a Multicenter Registry
Authors: Gasparini Gabriele L. , Bollati Mario , Chiarito Mauro , Cacia Michele , Roccasalva Fausto , Ungureanu Claudiu , Colletti Giuseppe , Muraglia Simone , Merella Pierluigi , Ugo Fabrizio , Pacchioni Andrea , Colangelo Salvatore , Sanz Sanchez Jorge , Leone Pier Pasquale , Latib Azeem , Mazzarotto Pietro
Published: August 2023

Background. In the setting of coronary artery dissection, both spontaneous and iatrogenic, fixing the intimal tear, usually with stent implantation, can be extremely challenging if the distal wire position has been lost. Common complications are mainly related to the inadvertent subintimal tracking of the guidewire while attempting to gain the distal true lumen. Aims. To report the registry results of using the SUOH 0.3 guidewire for managing coronary artery dissection in a real-world multicenter setting. Methods. The study population in this retrospective, multicenter, international registry included 75 consecutive patients who underwent PCI and required an antegrade wiring of a dissected coronary artery. Results. Successful use of SUOH 0.3 was achieved in 69 (92%) patients. The use of a microcatheter was associated with a significantly higher rate of TIMI 3 flow at the end of the procedure (no microcatheter: n = 17, 81%; microcatheter: n = 52, 96.3%;

p

 = 0.017). The first recanalization attempt was made with the SUOH 03 guidewire in 48 (64%) cases, and it was successful in 42 (87%). The overall PCI success rate was reported in 72 (96%) patients, with no significant differences among patients with different origins, mechanisms, and locations of dissection. Conclusions. In this setting, the SUOH 0.3 guidewire provides high procedural success without additional complex techniques.
Polydrug Use among Students in a Public University in a Lower Middle‐Income Country
Authors: Jelagat Joan , Budambula Nancy L. M. , Ngari Moses , Budambula Valentine
Published: August 2023

Recreational drug use among students in tertiary institutions remains a public health concern. Despite documentation of drug use in Kenyan universities, most of the studies are based on self‐reported history which is prone to social desirability bias. It is in this context that we sought to establish lifetime and current drug use among university students. The study investigated self‐reported and confirmed drug use. Using proportionate to size and snowball sampling methods, 380 respondents were enrolled from three university campuses. Actual drug use was confirmed qualitatively using a 6 panel plus alcohol saliva test kit. The study participants’ median (IQR) age was 22 (20–23) years, and 262 (69%) were male; 328 (86%) were degree‐level students, while 127 (33%) were in their fourth year and above. A total of 221 (58%) students reported a lifetime ever use of drugs, while 193 (51%) tested positive for at least one drug. Alcohol, tobacco products (cotinine), marijuana, and amphetamine or khat were the most preferred drugs. The usage was either solely, concurrently, or simultaneously. Having multiple sexual partners compared to students with no sexual partner (adjusted risk ratio (aRR) of 2.33 (95% CI 1.45, 3.76)) and residing in Mishomoroni and Kisauni (aRR 1.50 (95% CI 1.08, 2.09)) were associated with risk of testing positive for any drug. Having one (aRR of 1.54 (95% CI 1.05, 2.26)) and multiple sexual partners (aRR 2.03 (95% CI 1.27, 3.25) and residing in Mishomoroni and Kisauni (aRR 1.48 (95% CI 1.05, 2.08)) were associated with self‐reported drug use. One out of two students was currently using drugs. Irrespective of the method used to record data, alcohol, tobacco products, marijuana, and amphetamine or khat were the most preferred drugs. The usage was solely, concurrently, or simultaneously. Future interventions should focus on continuing students, students’ residences, and those who are sexually active.
Simplified Calculation Method for the Natural Frequencies of the Offshore Wind Turbine Structures with Monopile Foundations Based on Euler–Bernoulli Beam Theory
Authors: Jiang Yanpei , Zhou Xiaomin , Liu Yong
Published: July 2023

The wind and wave loads on the offshore wind-turbine (OWT) structures with monopile foundations occur at specific frequencies. When these excitation frequencies are close to the natural frequencies of OWT structures, resonance can disturb the proper operation of the power-generation equipment and shorten the service life of the structural system. Therefore, to ensure safe and efficient operation, the natural frequencies of the OWT structures with monopile foundations must be determined. To this end, a calculation method for the natural frequencies of the OWT structures with monopile foundations is proposed. This method, which considers the mass ratio (the ratio of the lumped mass on the top of the tower to the total mass of the tower, the transition piece, and the monopile above the mudline) as well as the nonuniform moment of inertia of the structures above the mudline and the soil–structure interaction (SSI), is derived using the Euler–Bernoulli beam differential equation and slope-displacement equation of a monopile according to the flexibility matrix, stiffness equivalent principle, and virtual work principle. Finally, the natural frequency calculation method is compared with finite element simulation and other calculation methods.
Study on the Shortest Reliable Path of Stochastic Time-Dependent Transportation Networks considering Waiting Time at Signalized Intersections
Authors: Sun Yanming , Li Jie , Liu Shixian
Published: July 2023

Theoretical research is conducted on finding the shortest path with stochastic and time-dependent characteristics of link travel time in urban road networks. Considering the influence of signalized intersections on travel time, the research first presents a function of waiting time at signalized intersections and analyzes its characteristics. Then, considering the reliability of travel time, the travel time model under the min-max theorem is established, and a mathematical proof that the stochastic time-dependent traffic networks can be reduced to a deterministic time-dependent network is presented by using the first mathematical induction. Finally, based on analyzing the characteristics of the shortest path and minimum travel time, which vary with the start time, we propose solving the shortest path problem with a shortest path algorithm based on Dijkstra’s algorithm that takes the waiting time at signalized intersections into consideration. The research results showed that the algorithm proposed in this study does not depend on the acquisition of the probability distribution of travel time compared with the traditional algorithm. The range of uncertain travel time can be derived from historical data and travelers’ experiences, and the obtained shortest path has more robust time reliability.
Enhancing Photovoltaic Module Fault Diagnosis with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Deep Learning-Based Image Analysis
Authors: Jerome Vasanth J. , Naveen Venkatesh S. , Sugumaran V. , Mahamuni Vetri Selvi
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved into a powerful tool that has wide-spread application in computer vision such as computer-aided inspection, industrial control systems, and navigation of robots. Monitoring the condition of machineries and mechanical components for the presence of faults with the aid of image-based automated analysis is one major application of computer vision. Diagnosing machinery faults from images can be made feasible with the adoption of deep learning and machine learning techniques. The primary objective of this study is to detect malfunctions in photovoltaic (PV) modules by utilizing a combination of deep learning and machine learning methodologies, with the assistance of RGB images captured via unmanned aerial vehicles. Six test conditions of PV modules such as good panel, snail trail, delamination, glass breakage, discoloration, and burn marks were considered in the study. The overall experimentation was carried out in two phases: (i) deep learning phase and (ii) machine learning phase. In the initial deep learning phase, the final fully connected layer of six pretrained networks, namely, DenseNet-201, VGG19, ResNet-50, GoogLeNet, VGG16, and AlexNet, was utilized to extract PVM image features. During the machine learning phase, feature selection from the extracted features was carried out using the J48 decision tree algorithm. Post selection of features, three families of classifiers such as tree, Bayes, and lazy were applied to determine the best feature extractor-classifier pair. The combination of DenseNet-201 features with k-nearest neighbour (IBK) classifier produced the overall classification accuracy of 100.00% among all other pretrained network features and classifiers considered.
Association of Dietary Inflammation Index and Helicobacter pylori Immunoglobulin G Seropositivity in US Adults: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Shi Lin , Zhang Dan
Published: July 2023

Background. Dietary patterns play important role in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. We aimed to investigate the potential relationship between Dietary Inflammation Index (DII) and H. pylori infection in US adults. Methods. This cross-sectional study was based on National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999–2000). Individuals aged ≥20 years who provided a 24 hr dietary intake history and underwent H. pylori testing were included in the analysis. Multivariate weighted logistic regression analysis, smooth curve fitting, and subgroup analysis were used to investigate the relationship between DII and H. pylori infection. Subgroup analyses were based on demographic and clinical variables. Results. There were 4,000 individuals enrolled in our final analysis. The overall mean age was 45.92 years and 46.77% were males. The overall prevalence of H. pylori infection in the study population was 45.9%. The smooth curve fitting analysis indicated a near-linear relationship between DII and H. pylori. In multivariate weighted logistic regression analysis, the odds ratio (OR) of DII is 1.17 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.09–1.27) for H. pylori infection. In subgroup analysis, DII still increased the risk of H. pylori infection independently. Conclusions. The increased DII levels were associated with an increased risk of H. pylori infection among US adults. Further studies are needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms of DII and H. pylori infection.
Subcutaneous Fat Obesity in a High Body Mass Index Donor Is Not a Contraindication to Living Donor Hepatectomy
Authors: Pahari Hirak , Sonavane Amey , Raj Amruth , Agrawal Anup Kumar , Sawant Ambreen , Gupta Deepak Kumar , Gharat Amit , Raut Vikram
Published: July 2023

Background. Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has revolutionized the field of transplantation without compromising donor safety. Donor safety is of paramount concern to the transplant team. BMI >35 kg/m2 is mostly considered a contraindication to liver donation. Here, we present a successful right donor hepatectomy from a donor with a BMI of 36.5 kg/m2. Case Summary. A 39-year-old wife donated her right lobe of liver to her 43-year-old husband with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related chronic liver disease (CLD). His indications were refractory ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, acute kidney injury, recurrent elbow and urine infections leading to cachexia. She was initially rejected due to a high BMI but failed to lose weight over the next 2 months, and the need for a transplant in her husband was imminent. With no other potential living donors, we decided to proceed with donor evaluation as she had no other comorbidity. We were surprised to find normal liver function tests and a good liver attenuation index (LAI) of +16 on a computed tomography (CT) scan. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging revealed a fat fraction of 3%. Volumetry confirmed a remnant of 37.9% and a potential graft-to-recipient weight ratio of 1.23. V/S ratio on CT scan (visceral fat area/subcutaneous fat area at L4-level) was <0.4 confirming subcutaneous fat obesity. Both surgeries were uneventful and both donor and recipient recovered well except recipient re-exploration on postoperative day (POD)-1 due to surgical bleeding. The donor was discharged on POD-6 and recipient was discharged on POD-15. At 3 weeks of follow-up, the donor’s wound is clean and well-healed, and she is already back to doing her daily life activities without any pain with normal laboratory parameters. Conclusion. Subcutaneous fat obesity should not be considered as a contraindication to liver donation even with a BMI >35 kg/m2. A small percentage of healthy individuals will not have visceral fat obesity and may not have steatotic livers. The CT scan and MR fat fraction estimation can confirm the findings. Biopsy may be avoided if MR fat estimation is <10% in obese donors. Intraoperative visualization in these donors remains the gold standard to decide the need for biopsy. Living donor hepatectomy may be safely performed in a select group of high BMI patients (>35 kg/m2) with pure subcutaneous fat obesity in the absence of other suitable living donors.
Early Life Exposure to Human Milk Oligosaccharides Reduces Allergic Response in a Murine Asthma Model
Authors: Bozorgmehr Tahereh , Boutin Rozlyn C. T. , Woodward Sarah E. , Donald Katherine , Chow Jo May , Buck Rachael H. , Finlay B. Brett
Published: July 2023

Background. Studies suggest that early-life gut microbiota composition and intestinal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are linked to future asthma susceptibility. Furthermore, infancy offers a critical time window to modulate the microbiota and associated metabolites through diet-microbe interactions to promote infant health. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), nondigestible carbohydrates abundant in breast milk, are prebiotics selectively metabolized by gut microbiota that consequently modify microbiome composition and SCFA production. Methods. Using a house dust mite mouse model of allergy, we investigated the impacts of early oral treatment of pups with biologically relevant doses of 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL) and 6′-sialyllactose (6′-SL), two of the most abundant HMOs in human milk, in amelioration of allergic airway disease severity. Results. We found that administration of 2′-FL and 6′-SL during early life reduced lung histopathology scores, circulating IgE, cytokine levels, and inflammatory cell infiltration, all hallmark symptoms of allergic asthma. HMO supplementation also increased the relative abundance of intestinal Bacteroidetes and Clostridia, known SCFA producers within the gut. Indeed, we detected increased SCFA concentrations in both the intestine and blood of adult mice who received HMOs prior to weaning. Conclusion. We propose a model in which orally administered HMOs delivered during early life shift the microbiota toward increased production of SCFAs, which dampens the allergic immune responses behind allergy and asthma. Overall, these data suggest the potential for HMO supplementation to protect infants against asthma development later in life, with possible benefits against additional atopic diseases such as eczema and food allergies.
Estimation of Some Phytochemical Compounds and Antioxidant Properties of Leaves from Different Mulberry Varieties Grown in Syria
Authors: Alidee Tahani , Jales Maysam , Hjaij Nouraldin Daher , Almouna Alaa
Published: July 2023

The study was conducted to compare the chemical composition and bioactive compounds of leaves from different mulberry species grown in Syria (Morus alba, Morus nigra, Morus rubra, and Morus nigra sp). The leaves were collected in July 2022 and their proximate composition (moisture, ash, lipids, and protein), total polyphenol content (TPC), ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity, as measured by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), were investigated. The results showed that the moisture, ash, and fat content ranged from 61.84 to 71.17%, 12.87 to 17.61%, and 3.82 to 9.68% dry weight (DW), respectively. The phenolic concentration of leaves from four different mulberry cultivars varied significantly, from 164.9 (Morus alba) to 461.5 gallic acid equivalents mg/100 g DW (M. nigra). The antioxidant activity of mulberry leaves ranged from 122 to 166.3 meq ascorbic acid/100 g DW and was arranged as follows: M. rubra > M. nigra sp > M. nigra > M. alba. According to the findings, mulberry leaves could be used to create new food supplements, functional foods, and medical applications.
Figure S4 from Oncogenic Transformation Drives DNA Methylation Loss and Transcriptional Activation at Transposable Element Loci
Authors: Kanholm Tomas , Rentia Uzma , Hadley Melissa , Karlow Jennifer A. , Cox Olivia L. , Diab Noor , Bendall Matthew L. , Dawson Tyson , McDonald James I. , Xie Wenbing , Crandall Keith A. , Burns Kathleen H. , Baylin Stephen B. , Easwaran Hari , Chiappinelli Katherine B.
Published: August 2023

Supplemental Figure 4