bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19-Related Abnormal Liver Enzymes Levels: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Qian Jian-dan , Wang Yan , Yao Tian-tian , Li Hai-chao , Wang gui-qiang
Published: June 2020

Background: A new disease called Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) related to SARS-CoV-2 has brought serious attacks to the world. It causes damage to multiple organ systems of the body include liver. Here we intend to shed light on the clinical features its mechanism related to liver damage which caused by COVID-19.Methods: Clinical records and laboratory results were obtained from 138 patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 who were admitted to Tongji hospital, Wuhan, China from February 8, 2020 to February 18, 2020. Information on clinical features of patients with abnormal liver tests were collected for analysis.Results: Fifty-four (39.1%) and eighty-three (60.1%) patients had abnormal liver enzyme levels on admission and during the course of disease. Hepatocyte type was more common than cholestatic type abnormal. 24(17.4%) patients reached the liver injury standard in the course of disease. Patients with abnormal liver enzyme levels were more likely to be male, had higher levels of inflammation indicators, lower pulse oxygen saturation and lymphocyte count. There is a significantly higher proportion of abnormal liver enzymes levels in the patients which administrated antibiotics during hospitalization, compared with that in the ones without antibiotics therapy (56.6% vs 32.7%). Patients with liver injury was an independent predictor of a poor prognosis (p<0.0001, OR 7.774, 95%CI 2.674-22.599).Conclusions: Liver injury in COVID-19 patients was an independent predictor of a poor prognosis. The COVID-19-related abnormal liver enzymes levels may be considered as the result of secondary liver damage caused mainly by several factors. Hypoxia and disease severity account for the largest proportion.
Two Novel Pde11a Genetic Variants Increase Tau Phosphorylations in Early-onset Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Qin Wei , Zhou Aihong , Zuo Xiumei , Jia Longfei , Wei Cuibai , Tang Yi , Wang Fen , Li Fangyu , Wang Qi , Li Ying , Wei Yiping , Zhao Lina , Jin Hongmei , Cruchaga Carlos , Benitez Bruno A. , Jia jianping
Published: June 2020

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a leading cause of dementia in the elderly and has become a major health issue. However, a large number of genetic risk factors remain undiscovered. Methods: To identify novel risk genes and better understand the molecular pathway underlying AD, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed in 215 early-onset AD (EOAD) patients and 55 unrelated healthy controls of Han Chinese ethnicity. Subsequent direct sequencing was performed in 620 individuals to validate the selected rare mutations. Computational annotation and in vitro functional studies were performed to evaluate the role of candidate mutations in EOAD and the underlying mechanisms.Results: We identified two rare missense mutations in the phosphodiesterase 11A (PDE11A) gene, resulting in p.Arg202His, and p.Leu756Gln, in 4 individuals with EOAD. Both mutations are located in evolutionarily highly conserved amino acids, are predicted to alter the protein conformation, and classified as pathogenic. Furthermore, we found significantly decreased protein levels of PDE11A in brain samples of AD patients. Expression of PDE11A variants and knockdown experiments with specific short hairpin RNA (shRNA) for PDE11A both resulted in an increase of AD-associated Tau hyperphosphorylation at T181, S404, S202, S416, S214, S396 and AT8 epitopes in vitro. PDE11A variants or PDE11A shRNA also caused increased cAMP levels, protein kinase A (PKA) activation, and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation. Additionally, pretreatment with a PKA inhibitor (H89) suppressed PDE11A mutation-induced p-Tau formation.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that both PDE11A mutations and PDE11A knockdown increase Tau phosphorylation through the cAMP/PKA pathway, suggesting that PDE11A is a novel risk gene for AD. This study provides insight into the involvement of Tau phosphorylation via the cAMP/PKA pathway in EOAD pathogenesis and provides a potential new target for intervention.
FDG PET/CT for Evaluating Early Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Pediatric Patients with Sarcoma: A Prospective Single-Center Trial
Authors: Polverari Giulia , Ceci Francesco , Passera Roberto , Crane Jacquelyn , Du Lin , Li Gang , Fanti Stefano , Bernthal Nicholas , Eilber Fritz C , Allen-Auerbach Martin , Czernin Johannes , Calais Jeremie , Federman Noah
Published: June 2020

Introduction: This is a prospective, single-center trial (UCLA-IRB#10-000246) in pediatric patients with high-grade bone or soft tissue sarcoma. The aim was to evaluate FDG-PET/CT as a tool for early response assessment to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (neo-CTX).Methods: Bone or soft tissue sarcoma patients with i) baseline FDG PET/CT within four weeks prior to the start of neo-CTX (PET1), ii) early interim FDG PET/CT (six weeks after the start of neo-CTX (PET2), iii) evaluation of neo-CTX response by histology or MRI, and iv) definitive therapy after neo-CTX (surgery or radiation) were included. Semi-quantitative PET parameters (SUVmax, SUVmean, SUVpeak, MTV and TLG) and their changes from PET1 to PET2 (ΔPET) were calculated. Patients with necrosis ≥90% in the excised tumor tissue after surgery or with complete disappearance of the soft tissue component on MRI after neo-CTX were considered responders. The primary endpoint was to evaluate the predictive value of FDG PET/CT parameters at baseline and early during neo-CTX for overall survival (OS) and time to progression (TTP). The secondary outcome was to evaluate if FDG PET/CT can predict the response to neo-CTX assessed by percentage of necrosis in the resected tumor or post-treatment MRI. Primary and secondary outcomes were also evaluated in a sub-population of patients with bone involvement only.Results: Thirty-four consecutive patients were enrolled (10 females; 24 males; median age=15.1 years). 17/34 patients (50%) had Osteosarcoma, 13/34 (38%) Ewing Sarcoma, 2/34 (6%) synovial sarcoma and 2/34 (6%) embryonal liver sarcoma. Median follow-up was 39 months (range 16-84). Eight of 34 patients (24%) died, 9/34 (27%) were alive with disease and 17/34 (50%) had no evidence of residual/recurrent disease. Fifteen of 34 (44.1%) and 19/34 (55.9%) were responders and non-responders, respectively. PET2-parameters were associated with longer TTP (p <0.02). ΔMTV was associated with tissue response to neo-CTX (p=0.047). None of the PET1, PET2 or ΔPET parameters were associated with OS. Conclusion: FDG PET/CT performed six weeks after the start of neo-CTX can serve as an early interim biomarker for TTP and pathologic response but not for OS in pediatric bone and soft tissue sarcoma patients.
Physiotherapetic Approach in Elderly With COPD: A Systematic Review
Authors: OLIVEIRA AMANDA Ferreira DE , CORREIA Andressa NUNES , MARTINS JACKELINE ARAUJO , Apolaro Kessia Maelym Oliveira , Lima Leide Francisca Ferreira , Dias Alex Carrer Borges , SOUSA Watila Moura , Porto Celmo Celeno
Published: June 2020

Background: The number of elderly individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasing, resulting in high costs, especially in the Brazilian public health system. Scientific studies show that the physical therapy approach has benefits and assists in pulmonary rehabilitation, however, it is necessary to know the interventions that optimize the clinical and functional improvement of the individual. Objective: To analyze physical therapy interventions and their main outcomes in elderly with COPD. Methods: Five researchers independently searched the PUBMED, LILACS, SCIELO and SCOPUS databases. Publications in English, Portuguese and Spanish were delimited. The quality of the studies was assessed by the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines. Study conducted according to PRISMA standards. Results: The sample consisted of 9 trials. Of these, 6 obtained a positive outcome from the proposed analysis and 3 of the studies did not obtain significant results. There was no homogeneity in study interventions. Conclusion: The interventions or techniques used in elderly patients with COPD who had significant positive outcomes were: Use of vibration devices to enhance strength exercises, the use of Kinesio Taping associated with other therapeutic interventions, resistance training programs, strength and balance and upper limb exercises with coordinated breathing.Systematic Review Record: CRD42020141337
Reliability and Validity of the Dari version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) Questionnaire in Herat, Afghanistan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Shayan Nasar Ahmad , Eser Erhan , Neyazi Ahmad , Eser Sultan
Published: June 2020

Background

In order to predict social, mental and health care needs we must measure Quality of life of residents. In Afghanistan there was no assessment to measure quality of life of people. The aim of this study was to culturally adapt the WHOQOL-BREF into Dari language of Afghanistan and present its psychometric properties.
Methods

Cultural adaptation of the WHOQOL-BREF into Dari has consisted of two stages: translation stage, and the cognitive debriefing (pilot) stage following the translation stage. The process of translation of WHOQOL-BREF included recommended methodology, mandating forward translation, backward translation was followed. A total number of 1473 people did participate in this research. Psychometric analyses consisted of item analyses; reliability and validity analyses. Internal consistency analyses were done by Cronbach's alpha value and validity analyses consisted of construct validity (convergent validity by SF-36 and confirmatory factor analyses) and criterion validity (multiple linear regression by overall QoL item (item1)) analyses. Acceptable type 1 error was considered as 0.05 in all analyses. Analyses were done by using Lisrel v8.05 statistical package.
Results

Item domain correlations and -if item deleted- Cronbach alpha values no problematic item in Afghan version of the WHOQOL-BREF. Internal consistency of the scale was in acceptable limits for all domains (alpha values = 0.79–0.80) except for the social relations domain (alpha = 0.41). Using overall QoL item (item q1) as the dependent variable, multiple regression analysis revealed a R2 value of 57% and all of the four domains of the WHOQOL except that of Social relation domain (beta = 0.03) could explain the variance of the q1, the best domain is the environmental domain with a beta value of 0.30. Construct validity is tested by known groups validity; factorial validity and the convergent validity. All of the known categories of the age, gender, education, social class and economic status, having chronic illness were significantly sensitive to the domain scores of the WHOQOL (p < 0.001). Physical and Psychological domains of the WHOQOL-BREF was highly correlated with the related domains of the SF-36 (r = 0.60 and 0.64). Social and environmental domains showed poor correlations with the SF36. Confirmatory factor analyses showed acceptable goodness of fit results. Chi-square = 2174,748 and Degrees of freedom = 246; GFI: 0.88, CFI: 0.83; RMR: 0.066 and RMSEA: 0.073.
Conclusion

Afghan Dari version of the WHOQOL-BREF can confidently be used in clinical setting and in population level to assess the QoL of the people. The results of the social relations domain should be interpreted with caution due to its poor psychometric power. Further studies are needed to address the social aspects of quality of life in Afghan population.
Biological Omics Analysis of Tumor Mutation Burden Combined with Immune Infiltrates in Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Zhuang Yuan , Liu Chang , Huang Jin , Li Guang
Published: June 2020

Background: In various malignancies, whether tumor mutation burden (TMB) is associated with improved survival outcomes or enhanced immunotherapy remains controversial. We are committed to exploring the prognosis of TMB and its potential association with immune infiltration of uterine corpus endometrial cancer (UCEC).Methods: We downloaded transcriptome data and somatic mutation data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and visualized the mutation profiles using the "maftools" package. TMB was calculated and the samples were divided into two groups by the median. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Wilcoxon test were used to compare the differences in survival and clinicopathological characteristics. Furthermore, we performed functional enrichment analysis to screen for significant contributing pathways. The "CIBERSORT" package was used to estimate the abundance of immune components. Differential analysis was performed using the "limma" package to compare gene expression profiles. Multivariate analysis was used to identify risk genes related to TMB. Based on these genes, a risk model was established, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to assess the predictive accuracy. Finally, we evaluated the relationship between risk genes and immune infiltration using the Timer database.Results: The mutation data included 542 UCEC patients. The waterfall plot summarized the specific mutation information. Higher TMB levels indicated improved overall survival (OS) (p =0.048) and were associated with advanced grades. Pathway analysis showed that the differential signals were enriched in multiple immune-related crosstalks. We screened 108 differentially expressed genes in two TMB groups and identified four risk-related genes. The model based on these four risk genes had good predictive value, the area under the curve (AUC) = 0.670, and patients with higher risk scores showed worse OS (p <0.001). Additionally, CD8 T cells memory-activated, CD4 T cells, and M1 macrophages in the high TMB group showed higher infiltrates, while regulatory T cells (Tregs) and M2 macrophages showed lower infiltrates.Conclusions: Higher TMB was associated with better survival outcomes and increased the immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment of UCEC.
Factors Associated with Conducting Planning for Secondary Oral Health Care Services in Brazil
Authors: de Lucena Edson Hilan Gomes , Silva Rênnis Oliveira da , de Lucena Carolina Dantas Rocha Xavier , Mepatia Amalia Issufo , Cavalcanti Yuri Wanderley , de Goes Paulo Savio Angeiras , de Sousa Maria Fátima
Published: June 2020

Background: Planning in health services specifically aims to improve the health status of a given population, guaranteeing access with equity and justice, as well as streamlining the response of the health system to the needs perceived by the community. This research aims to identify the factors associated with planning Specialized Dental Clinics (SDCs). Methods: Secondary data were used from the external evaluation of the database of the first National Program for Access and Quality Improvement of SDCs (NPAQI–SDCs) and the informed Outpatient Information System of the Unified Health System (OIS/UHS), which contains data on the specialized dental procedures performed at SDCs. It consisted of a quantitative study in which Pearson chi-square statistical tests (p ˂ 0.05) and a multivariate logistic regression were applied with odds ratio (OR) estimate.Results: The results indicated that the realization of planning in SDCs was associated with lower oral health coverage according to the Family Health Strategy in a municipality (OR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0-1.9, p = 0.049), additional training for managers (p = 0.038), the practice of self-assessment (OR = 8.2; 95% CI: 5.8-11.6; p = 0.000) and meeting service production targets (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.2-3.2; p = 0.011).Conclusion: The results indicate that the work processes of the SDCs, especially with regard to service management, are essential to the proper functioning of the service and the practice of planning is linked to the technical capacity and commitment of service managers.
The Relationship between 18F-FDG Uptake in the Oral Cavity, Recent Dental Treatments, and Oral Inflammation or Infection: A Retrospective Study of Patients with Suspected Endocarditis
Authors: Slart Riemer H.J.A. , Dijkstra Geertruida W , Glaudemans Andor W.J.M. , Erba Paola A. , Wouthuyzen-Bakker Marjan , Sinha Bhanu , García David Vállez , Sluis Luc W.M. van der
Published: June 2020

Background: Poor oral health has long been associated with the development of systemic disease. The risk of infective endocarditis (IE) after dental procedures is a typical example. However, the literature is conflicting about the causal relationship between oral bacterial pathogens and risk of IE. [18F]FDG PET/CT has proven to be a useful diagnostic tool in patients with suspected IE. This study focused on: 1) the correlation between increased glucose metabolism on [18F]FDG PET/CT scans, recent dental treatment, and inflammation and/or infection sites in the oral cavity reported by the dentist; and 2) a possible correlation between IE and oral health status based on (extra)cardiac findings on [18F]FDG PET/CT scans. Methods: This retrospective study included 52 patients (32 men, 20 women; median age, 58 years; IQR [44-66] years). A total of 19 patients were diagnosed with IE (group 1), 14 patients with possible IE (group 2), and 19 patients were not diagnosed with IE based on the modified Duke criteria (group 3). Patient characteristics and dental records were reviewed for relevant clinical data at the time the [18F]FDG PET/CT scan was performed. All [18F]FDG PET/CT scans were examined visually by pattern recognition using a three-point scale, and semi-quantified within the volume of interest (VOI) using SUVmax. The Fisher’s exact probability test and Pearson’s correlation were used to analyze the relationship between dental oral cavity findings and [18F]FDG PET/CT scans. A one-way ANOVA was conducted to compare the SUVmax measured in the oral cavity. To analyze the differences among visual [18F]FDG uptake scores in groups 1, 2, and 3, the Kruskal-Wallis H test was used. Results: No correlation was found between visual [18F]FDG uptake scores and SUVmax as a marker of [18F]FDG uptake and possible sites of oral inflammation and infection, or dental treatments based on the dental records of 52 patients. Between groups 1, 2, and 3, the visual [18F]FDG uptake scores (H(2) = 4.359, p = .113) and SUVmax (F(2, 69) = 0.27, p = .798) were not significantly different. A significant difference in SUVmax of the valve for the three groups (F(2, 309) = 28.06, p < .001) was observed.Conclusions: The results of this retrospective study suggest that no correlation exists between [18F]FDG PET/CT uptake in the oral cavity and dental treatments or inflammation/infection reported by the dentist. Furthermore, no correlation between IE and actual oral health status was demonstrated. This study revealed no causal relationship between oral pathogens and risk of IE. Additional research is needed to conclude whether [18F]FDG PET/CT imaging is a reliable diagnostic modality for oral inflammation and infection sites.
Cardiac Arrhythmias and COVID-19 – a Meta-analysis of Recent Reports
Authors: Salah Husam M. I. , Mehta Jawahar L.
Published: June 2020

Introduction: The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a current pandemic. Cardiovascular manifestations of COVID-19 have been described in many studies; however, no studies have examined the prevalence and characterizations of cardiac arrhythmias among patients with COVID-19 infection. The aim of this meta-analysis was to examine the prevalence of cardiac arrhythmias among patients with COVID-19 infection.Method: PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate databases were searched for relevant articles from inception until June 14, 2020. Inclusion criteria were: 1) Cohort studies or case series studies; 2) Study population included individuals with confirmed COVID-19 infection; 3) Arrhythmic events were reported in the study. All other studies were excluded. MedCalc software was used to analyze the pooled data. The random-effect model was utilized to obtain the prevalence of arrhythmia among the included patients and its 95% confidence interval. Cohran's Q and I2 index were used for heterogeneity measurements. The main planned outcome was the prevalence of arrhythmia among patients with COVID-19 infection.Results: Thirteen studies with a total of 2861 patients met our inclusion criteria. The prevalence of arrhythmia among patients with COVID-19 infection was 8.1% (95% CI [6.10, 10.37]). 82.8% of the patients who had arrhythmia has severe illness (95% CI [70.916, 92.124]).Conclusion: The prevalence of arrhythmias among patients with COVID-19 infection is 8.1%, which is much higher than in the general population (2.35%).
Virucidal effect of acetic acid and vinegar on SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Yoshimoto Joto , Ono Chikako , Tsuchiya Yoshihiro , Kabuto Shizuya , Kishi Mikiya , Matsuura Yoshiharu
Published: June 2020

Given the potential infectivity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on surfaces for hours to days, it is important to find safe and effective disinfecting agents to help prevent the spread and transmission of this new virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Toward this end, in this study, the virucidal effect of acetic acid and vinegar, as safe foods, on SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated. Both 4% and 6% acetic acid aqueous solutions effectively inactivated the virus after 5-min incubation with a reduction over 4 log, resulting in a viral titre below the detection limit. In addition, white distilled vinegar (5% and 6% acetic acid concentrations) inactivated SARS-CoV-2 after 1-min incubation with reduction of over 4 log and a viral titre below the detection limit. These preliminary findings provide valuable information on the inactivation of SARS-CoV2, offering insight for effective infection control.
Ethnicity-dependent allele frequencies are correlated with COVID-19 case fatality rate
Authors: Jeon Sungwon , Blazyte Asta , Yoon Changhan , Ryu Hyojung , Jeon Yeonsu , Bhak Youngjune , Bolser Dan , Manica Andrea , Shin Eun-Seok , Cho Yun Sung , Kim Byung Chul , Ryoo Namhee , Bhak Jong
Published: June 2020

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has a higher case fatality rate (CFR) in European ethnic groups than in others, especially East Asians. One explanation to this phenomenon might be TMPRSS2, a key processing enzyme essential for viral infection. Here, we analyzed the allele frequencies of two nonsynonymous variants rs12329760 (V197M) and rs75603675 (G8V) in the TMPRSS2 gene using over 200,000 present-day and ancient genomic samples. We found a significant association between the CFR of COVID-19 and the allele frequencies of the two variants. Interestingly, they had opposing effects on the CFR: inverse correlation by V197, proportional correlation by G8V. East Asians have higher V197M and lower G8V allele frequencies than Europeans, possibly endowing resistance against SARS-CoV-2. Structural and energy calculation analysis of the V197M amino acid change showed that it destabilizes the TMPRSS2 protein, possibly affecting its ACE2 and viral spike protein processing negatively, ultimately resulting in reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection efficiency and CFR in East Asian ethnic groups.
Hadronic footprint of GeV-mass dark matter
Authors: Plehn Tilman , Reimitz Peter , Richardson Peter
Published: June 2020

GeV-scale dark matter is an increasingly attractive target for
direct detection, indirect detection, and collider searches. Its
annihilation into hadronic final states produces a challenging zoo
of light hadronic resonances. We update Herwig7 to study
the photon and positron spectra from annihilation through a vector
mediator. It covers dark matter masses between 250 MeV and 5 GeV
and includes an error estimate.
Improved chlorination and rapid water quality assessment in response to an outbreak of acute watery diarrhea in Somali Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Rajasingham Anu , Harvey Ben , Taye Yodit , Kamwaga Stanislaus , Martinsen Andrea , Sirad Mohamed , Aden Mowlid , Gallagher Kathleen , Handzel Thomas
Published: June 2020

The Somali Region of Ethiopia has been affected by drought for several years. Drought conditions have led to food and water scarcity and a humanitarian crisis in the region. In January 2017, an outbreak of acute watery diarrhea (AWD) was declared in the region. AWD prevention and control activities include strengthening water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. Access to safe drinking water is critical in preventing transmission of AWD and chlorine is an effective chemical to disinfect water supplies. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention collaborated with the WASH Cluster and the United Nations Children's Fund, Ethiopia, to provide technical assistance to the Somali Regional Water Bureau to improve chlorination of drinking water supplies and quickly assess water quality improvements in Jijiga town, Fafan Zone. Timely sharing of surveillance and case investigation data allowed for the identification of gaps within the water supply system in Jijiga and implementation of centralized and decentralized chlorination interventions and monitoring systems. Pilot use of a rapid assessment to determine residual chlorine levels at various points in the city helped improve chlorination intervention impact. This work illustrates that rapid community-level water quality improvements can be implemented and assessed quickly to improve interventions during outbreaks.
Selection of best stormwater management alternative based on storm control measures (SCM) efficiency indices
Authors: Wadhwa Abhinav , Pavan Kumar K.
Published: June 2020

Overcoming conventional stormwater management problems and finding appropriate control methods for safely discharging excess runoff from impervious areas is an essential part of any sustainable urban planning. This study aims to analyze the performance of different storm control measures (SCMs) applied to Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) campus situated in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, which is a highly urbanized catchment. Different SCMs were designed for the VIT campus based on low impact development (LID) options available in stormwater management model (SWMM) software. The most suitable SCM was selected based on its ability to match pre-urbanized hydrographs as close as possible. The SCM location was identified by a localized survey, in such a way that there is least disturbance to the existing storm sewer network. The percentage reduction of peak flow under each proposed SCM were obtained as follows: bio-retention (19.8%), rain garden (18.69%), green roof (49.17%), infiltration trench (20.02%), permeable pavement (22.6%), rain barrel (12.95%), rooftop-disconnection (10.79%) and vegetative swales (17.23%). The results indicated that Option 9 (combination of permeable pavement and bioretention) and Option 10 (permeable pavement and infiltration trench) were better at reducing peak runoff and increasing infiltration. The peak runoff reduction for Options 9 and 10 were observed to be 32.05 and 39.81%, whereas the percentage increase in infiltration was observed to be 25.7 and 29.45% respectively.
Bayesian network-based methodology for selecting a cost-effective sewer asset management model
Authors: Guzmán-Fierro Julián , Charry Sharel , González Ivan , Peña-Heredia Felipe , Hernández Nathalie , Luna-Acosta Andrea , Torres Andrés
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a methodology based on Bayesian Networks (BN) to prioritise and select the minimal number of variables that allows predicting the structural condition of sewer assets to support the strategies in proactive management. The integration of BN models, statistical measures of agreement (Cohen's Kappa coefficient) and a statistical test (Wilcoxon test) were useful for a robust and straightforward selection of a minimum number of variables (qualitative and quantitative) that ensure a suitable prediction level of the structural conditions of sewer pipes. According to the application of the methodology to a specific case study (Bogotás sewer network, Colombia), it found that with only two variables (age and diameter) the model could achieve the same capacity of prediction (Cohen's Kappa coefficient = 0.43) as a model considering several variables. Furthermore, the methodology allows finding the calibration and validation percentage subsets that best fit (80% for calibration and 20% for validation data in the case study) in the model to increase the capacity of prediction with low variations. Furthermore, it found that a model, considering only pipes in critical and excellent conditions, increases the capacity of successful predictions (Cohen's Kappa coefficient from 0.2 to 0.43) for the proposed case study.
Melatonin Prevents Neddylation Dysfunction in Aβ42-Exposed SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells by Regulating the Amyloid Precursor Protein- Binding Protein 1 Pathway
Authors: Shukla Mayuri , Chinchalongporn Vorapin , Govitrapong Piyarat
Published: June 2020

Background:

Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP)-Binding Protein 1 (APP-BP1) is a crucial
regulator of many key signaling pathways and functions mainly as a scaffold protein to enhance molecular
interactions and facilitate catalytic reactions. The interaction of APP-BP1 with Amyloid Precursor
Protein (APP) plays a role in cell cycle transit control, which determines the mechanism behind the loss
of cell cycle regulation in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). In contrast, neddylation, a posttranslational modification
mediated by conjugation of ubiquitin-like protein neural precursor cell expressed developmentally
downregulated protein 8 (NEDD8), is activated by a heterodimer composed of APP-BP1 and
NEDD8-activating enzyme E1 catalytic subunit (Uba3). NEDD8 controls vital biological events, and
along with APP-BP1, its levels are deregulated in AD.

Objective:

The present study investigated the role of melatonin in regulating the APP-BP1 pathway under
both physiological and pathological conditions to develop an understanding of the underlying
mechanisms.

Methods:

Therefore, human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were treated with various concentrations of
Aβ42 to induce neurotoxic conditions comparable to AD.

Results:

The results are the first to demonstrate that melatonin prevents Aβ42-induced enhancement of
APP-BP1 protein expression and alteration in the cellular localization of NEDD8. Moreover, using
MLN4924 (APP-BP1 pathway blocker), we also verified the components of the downstream effector
cascade of the APP-BP1 pathway, including tau, APP-cleaving secretases, β-catenin and p53.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate that melatonin regulates the interplay of molecular signaling associated
with the APP-BP1 pathway and might preclude the pathogenic mechanisms occurring during disease
development, thus providing a propitious therapeutic strategy for preventing AD.
A Case of Liver Failure Due to Dabigatran Treated with Venovenous Hemodiafiltration and Idarucizumab
Authors: Guglielmo Nicola , Orso Daniele , Mestroni Rosalba , Montanari Giulia
Published: June 2020

Dabigatran etexilate, a direct thrombin inhibitor, was recently introduced in clinical use
to prevent thromboembolic events in patients with risk factors (such as non-valvular atrial fibrillation
or deep vein thrombosis). Dabigatran is not recommended in patients with creatinine clearance
below 30 mL/min. More than 85% of the drug is eliminated by the renal route while the remaining
part via the enteral route. Acute renal failure can result in an unexpected increase in serum levels of
Dabigatran. In elderly, renal dysfunction, co-morbidity, and concomitant intake of different drugs
could make the dosage of Dabigatran challenging. We present a case of an elderly man who suffered
a severe accidental dabigatran intoxication with acute liver toxicity recovered after dialytic
treatment and Idarucizumab.
Electrical and Optical Properties of CNTs Additives Chalcogenide Glasses
Authors: Dwivedi Dilip Kumar , Jaiswal Priyanka , Singh Pravin Kumar , Lohia Pooja
Published: June 2020

Glasses have been used as the most versatile engineering materials for more than five decades.
Chalcos is a Greek word which means ore former and glasses prepared by particular chalcogenide
of group VI element of the periodic table or by their compounds have been known for more
than 50 years as an optical material. The primary objective is to provide up to date description of the
development in the field of optical and electrical properties of MWCNTs additive chalcogenide glasses.
An extensive survey of relevant literature was carried out using sophisticated libraries, virtual media,
different research laboratories, internet and also by personal contact with the senior researcher of
this field. The exponential increase in D.C. conductivity was observed on increasing the CNT concentration.
Inter nanotube connections increase which results in modification of chemical bond formation
with increased CNT concentration. It has been observed that the optical band gap of CNT doped chalcogenide
glass increases which may be attributed to the fact that CNT added to to the glasses retards
the motion of charge carriers and may raise the optical bandgap. The electrical and optical properties
of CNT additives chalcogenide glasses have been reviewed. Several applications based on CNT doped
glasses have also been discussed, including the development of ionic memories, sensors, optical
waveguides, holography, solid-state batteries, optical, and non-linear optical devices.
Exploring Therapeutic Risk in the Recovery Process of Adolescents at Risk of Self-harm: A Thematic Analysis of Support Staff Perceptions
Authors: Redmond Tomos
Published: June 2020

Background and Objective:

The high prevalence of adolescent self-harm
within mental health services presents considerable management concerns, exacerbated
by a lack of clear evidence regarding therapeutically effective approaches. This shortfall
perpetuates traditional risk-averse practice, despite likely inadequacies in mitigating
self-harm through failing to address underlying psychological mechanisms. Therapeutic
risk, defined as an approach whereby clinicians support individual risk-taking,
may be an alternative that yields improved recovery outcomes. However, related research
is adult-focused and provides limited detail on its features, practical delivery
and impact on recovery. Consequently, the current study explored the experiences of
professionals delivering a therapeutic risk ethos, including their conceptualisation of it
and its impact on young people.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven mental health support
workers employed by a residential healthcare provider, which promotes a therapeutic
risk approach. The provider supported service users aged 15 - 20 experiencing complex
psychopathology who, following inpatient discharge, presented a high risk of self-harm
and suicidality. Interview data was thematically analysed.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Staff participants provided their understanding of a therapeutic
risk approach, suggesting risk is viewed as positive and beneficial to recovery,
alongside the promotion of service user freedom and flexible therapeutic risk management.
The perceived therapeutic risk incorporates both permission and support, which facilitate
the exploration of underlying feelings and alternative actions. Additionally, therapeutic
risk promotes positive recovery outcomes due to empowered service users having
increased control over their lives. They argued this can reduce psychological distress, encouraging
the development of emotional regulation and adaptive coping strategies.
Определение пористости микрочастиц диоксида кремния с помощью метода соответствия показателей преломления
Authors: Ахмадеев А.А. , Гайнутдинов А.Р. , Хамадеев М.А. , Салахов М.Х.
Published: June 2020

The porosity of silicon dioxide microparticles synthesized by the Stöber - Fink method has been determined by using the refractive index matching methods. The values of the total porosity of particles have been obtained for different wavelengths of the incident light. The limits of applicability of the method associated with the ratio of the wavelength of the radiation to the size of microparticles have been analyzed.
Исследование рефрактометром дифференциального типа влияния оптической плотности текущей жидкости на погрешность измерения показателя преломления
Authors: Давыдов В.В. , Мороз А.В.
Published: June 2020

Factors that are affected the influence of the measurement error of the refractive index n in the flowing liquid (change in its optical density and temperature) are established. A during the using a differential flow type refractometer for measuring n flowing fliquid on the error in measuring the refractive index is additionally influenced by the scattering of radiation in the cell transducer and the wedge-shaped glass of the cell. New design of a differential refractometer for investigation of the optical density influence of the flowing liquid on the measurement error n is developped. New results confirming the influence of changes in the optical density of the flowing liquid on the measuring error of the refractive index n are recived. Compensation technique of the changes influence a optical density on the measurement error n is offered.
Объективная реальность и парадокс друзей Вигнера
Authors: Белинский А.В.
Published: June 2020

Using the example of the experiment https://arxiv.org/pdf/1902.05080.pdf, it is shown that the absence of an objective existence of quantum measurement results cannot be rigorously proved based on the recording of the violation of Bell's inequality in the form of Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt. There are also general arguments summarizing this conclusion.
Широкополосное излучение малых диэлектрических частиц
Authors: Рехвиашвили С.Ш.
Published: June 2020

A qualitatively new theoretical model of broadband ("white") thermal radiation of small dielectric particles is proposed. It is suggested and justified that the high intensity of this radiation may be due not to an extremely high temperature, but to the dielectric properties of the material and/or the dimensional effect of thermal radiation. The calculation of the radiation intensity of a blackbody and a spherical dielectric particle depending on the photon gas dimension is performed.
Влияние дифракции на импульс сжатого света в протоколе многомодовой резонансной квантовой памяти на тепловом атомном ансамбле
Authors: Зинатуллин Э.Р. , Тихонов K.С. , Голубева T.Ю. , Голубев Ю.M.
Published: June 2020

We cosider the influence of diffraction on the storage of the quantum state of a pulse of squeezed light on a warm atomic ensemble with the collinear configuration of light fields. Even in the case of forward read out when both signal and driving light fields propagate in the same direction as during writing, the motion of atoms leads to the uncompensated phase shift. Because of this phase shift, the squeezed quadrature mixed with the stretched quadrature. As a result, the squeezing of the pulse can be significantly reduced. The article considers the influence of diffraction for different configurations of multimode resonant quantum memory and shows how to reduce this effect to its possible minimum.
Анизотропия и спектроскопические свойства комплексов молекул мезо-тетра(4-карбоксифенил)порфирина с алмазными наночастицами
Authors: Кальвинковская Ю.А. , Цаплев Ю.Б. , Трофимов А.В. , Романенко А.А. , Бушук С.Б. , Павич Т.А. , Лапина В.А.
Published: June 2020

Meso-tetra (4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin complexes with nano-sized diamonds were studied spectroscopically. The polarization characteristics of their steady-state fluorescence indicate the formation of a covalently bound complex between porphyrin molecules and diamond nanoparticles. The hydrodynamic volumes of the studied complexes were estimated on the basis of data on steady-state fluorescence anisotropy. Measurements have shown that the photophysical properties of porphyrin do not change significantly when an organo-inorganic hybrid complex with nanodiamonds is formed. The studied complexes can be promising in the field of biomedical research, in particular, for diagnostic purposes and for the development of new generation photosensitizers for practical medicine.
Оптические эффекты в магнитоплазмонных кристаллах на основе 1D металл-диэлектрической решетки
Authors: Новиков В.Б. , Ромашкина А.М. , Езенкова Д.А. , Родионов И.A. , Афанасьев К.Н. , Барышев А.В. , Мурзина Т.В.
Published: June 2020

Optical and magneto-optical spectroscopy methods are used to study the properties of one-dimensional spatially-periodic structures formed by a dielectric grating covered with gold and permalloy films. We demonstrate that such structures reveal surface plasmon-polariton excitation with the resonant frequency that can be controlled by the geometry of the experiment. Modulation of the magneto-optical Kerr effect is attained in the spectral vicinity of the plasmon resonance, which is absent for the case of non-structured gold-Py bilayer.
Морфология, структурные и оптические свойства наноструктур кремния, полученные в растворе, содержащем гексафторосиликат водорода H-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-(SiF-=SUB=-6-=/SUB=-)
Authors: Жуматова Ш.А. , Манаков С.М. , Сагидолда Е. , Дарменкулова М.Б. , Азамат Р.М. , Алпысбаева Б.Е. , Диханбаев К.К.
Published: June 2020

Boron doped porous silicon with the observed photoluminescence with a crystallographic orientation of (100), which was fabricated based on a p-type silicon substrate using electrochemical etching in a solution containing hexafluorosilicic acid and ethyl alcohol was studied. A comparative analysis of the morphology, structural and optical properties of silicon nanostructures obtained in a solution containing H2(SiF6) and ethanol and samples obtained in a solution containing HF and ethanol was performed. Morphology, structural and optical properties were studied using scanning probe microscopy and spectrophotometry. It was shown that samples of porous silicon obtained in a solution containing H2(SiF6) and ethanol are characterized by improved optical properties, in particular, they exhibit more intense photoluminescence compared to samples obtained in solutions with HF and ethyl alcohol.
Нелинейное поглощение растворов метиленового голубого в присутствии плазмонных наночастиц с различным поверхностным зарядом
Authors: Русинов А.П. , Кучеренко М.Г.
Published: June 2020

By continuous-pump Z-scanning, the nonlinear light absorption of aqueous and alcohol solutions of methylene blue was studied. It was shown that the mechanisms of optical nonlinearity of these solutions vary depending on the dye concentration and type of solvent. The dependence of the amplitude of nonlinear absorption of dye molecules on the concentration and sign of the surface charge of gold and silver nanoparticles in solution is revealed. Mathematical models of optical nonlinearity for concentrated and diluted solutions of dye molecules are considered; in the latter case, the influence of plasmon nanoparticles on the nonlinear optical characteristics of methylene blue solutions is taken into account
Оптимальное управление внутривенной лазерной абляцией
Authors: Ковтанюк А.Е. , Чеботарев А.Ю. , Астраханцева А.А. , Сущенко А.А.
Published: June 2020

On the base of an initial-boundary value problem for the model of radiation-conductive heat transfer, the thermal processes that occur during endovenous laser ablation are studied. An optimal control problem is posed, which consists in approximating the solution of the initial-boundary value problem to a given temperature profile at a certain point of the model domain. The source powers going on radiation and heating the carbonized tip of the optical fiber are taken as control. An iterative algorithm for solving the problem is proposed and numerically implemented.
Challenge from Transpower: Determining the effect of the aggregated behaviour of solar photovoltaic power generation and battery energy storage systems on grid exit point load in order to maintain an accurate load forecast
Authors: Hassell Sweatman Catherine Zoe Wollaston , Wichitaksorn N. , Jiang A. , Farrell Troy , Bootland N. , Miskell G. , Pritchard G. , Chrystall C. , Robinson G.
Published: June 2020

With limited data beyond the grid exit point (GXP) or substation level, how can Transpower determine the effect of the aggregated behaviour of solar photovoltaic power generation and battery energy storage systems on GXP load in order to maintain an accurate load forecast? In this initial study it is assumed that the GXP services a residential region. An algorithm based on non-linear programming, which minimises the financial cost to the consumer, is developed to model consumer behaviour. Input data comprises forecast energy requirements (load), solar irradiance, and pricing. Output includes both the load drawn from the grid and power returned to the grid. The algorithm presented is at the household level. The next step would be to combine the load drawn from the grid and the power returned to the grid from all the households serviced by a GXP, enabling Transpower to make load predictions. Various means of load forecasting are considered including the Holt--Winters methods which perform well for out-of-sample forecasts. Linear regression, which takes into account comparable days, solar radiation, and air temperature, yields even better performance.
La Caracterización de las unidades productivas de soya en la costa ecuatoriana
Authors: Painii Montero Vicente Frijoth , Santillán Muñoz Olimpa Betzabeth , Montes Escobar Karime , Garces Fiallos Felipe Rafael
Published: June 2020

La presente investigación busca caracterizar las unidades productivas agropecuarias (UPA) que producen soya, generar nueva información para la diversificación de cultivos y proyectar cambios en la matriz productiva de Ecuador. La información se recolectó a través de encuestas estructuradas entre julio de 2017 y enero de 2018 en los cantones Vinces, Quevedo, Puebloviejo y Babahoyo de la provincia de Los Ríos, ubicada en la cuenca media del Río Guayas. Se entrevistaron 337 productores de soya y las preguntas abordaron aspectos económicos, socioculturales y ecológicos. La producción de granos se consideró aceptable (por encima de la media nacional con 2,7 t/ha) y la comercialización se estimó en $5.610/t, con una inversión en efectivo de $432/ha. La edad promedio de los productores fue de 51 años y es preocupante la falta de empoderamiento de los hijos de agricultores respecto a las actividades agrícolas. Se registró un bajo porcentaje de analfabetismo, factor positivo al momento de emprender procesos de capacitación. La mayoría de los agricultores están agrupados en organizaciones agrícolas, principalmente para acceder a los beneficios de subsidios establecidos por el Gobierno, y poseen acceso medio a servicios básicos. Los agricultores de la zona dependen de insumos externos como las semillas, lo que constituye un factor negativo para la sostenibilidad del sistema productivo.