bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of uric acid, creatinine clearance, and infusion duration on the population pharmacokinetics of meropenem in critically ill patients
Authors: Zhao Yi Chang , Zou Yang , Xiao Yi Wen , Wang Feng , Zhang Bi Kui , Xiang Da Xiong , Yu Feng , Luo Hong , Yan Miao
Published: May 2021

Background
Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic that has demonstrated excellent in vitro activity against gram-negative clinical Isolates and is commonly used in critically ill patients. This study aimed to describe the population pharmacokinetics (PPK) of meropenem and determine the optimal dosage in these patients.
Method:
We included 209 samples in 64 patients in this prospective study. PPK analysis and Monte Carlo dosing simulations were developed using Phoenix.
Results
A two-compartment model described the data adequately. Clearance (CL), volume (V), clearance of peripheral compartment (CL2), volume of peripheral compartment (V2) were 6.15 L/h, 2.83 L/h, 17.40L, and 17.48L, respectively. Creatinine clearance and uric acid were significant covariates. Patients with creatinine clearance of 60 ml/min or less and uric acid greater than 400 µmol/l could achieve the target >\(\)90% under the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 8 mg/L, even with the administration dose of 500 mg/8 h with a 2-h infusion. Prolonging the infusion time significantly improved the therapeutic effect when MIC༜4. However, for the pharmacodynamic (PD) effects of 100% fT > MIC and 100% fT > 4MIC, no significant statistical difference was observed in critically ill patients.
Conclusions
Critically ill patients with lower creatinine clearance and higher uric acid levels were likely to need a lower dosage of meropenem. Prolonged infusion time were not appear to be beneficial for those who need a higher therapeutic target (100% fT > MIC,100% fT > 4 MIC) or with MIC\(>\)4mg/L. Increasing dose or alternative therapeutic strategies may be required for critically ill patients with drug-resistant or severe infections. The study is of great significance to guide the rational use of meropenem in critically ill patients.
Trial registration:
The trial was registered in the China Clinical Trial (ChiCTR1900020672). Registered on 12 January 2019.
T-cell responses to SARS CoV-2 in unexposed South African women
Authors: nunes marta , Johnson Michael , Kwatra Gaurav , Weinberg Adriana , Madhi Shabir
Published: May 2021

A potential explanation for the fact that the high force of infection for SARS-CoV-2 in South Africa did not translate into high rates of severe illness and death, may be the presence of cross-reactive immunity induced by common cold coronaviruses (CCoV). We used SARS-CoV-2 peptide pools and whole virus antigen to stimulate peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected pre-2020 from South African women and measured interferon gamma (IFNγ) and interleukin 2 (IL2) production. IFNγ responses were observed in 29.9% of the women and IL2 among 39.2%. Overall, 51.6% of women demonstrated response to at least one stimulant. The responses to SARS-CoV-2 might have been induced by past exposure to CCoV.
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Lobectomy Versus Open Lobectomy In The Treatment Of Large Lung Cancer: Propensity-Score Matched Analysis
Authors: Yun Jeonghee , Lee Junghee , Shin Sumin , Kim Hong Kwan , Choi Yong Soo , Kim Jhingook , Zo Jae Il , Shim Young Mog , Cho Jong Ho
Published: May 2021

Background: There are several concerns on thoracoscopic surgery for large tumors because of the increased risk of tumor cell spillage. This study aimed to compare perioperative outcomes and oncological validity between video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and open lobectomy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with tumor size >5cm.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 355 patients who underwent lobectomy with clinical N0 NSCLC with solid tumor component diameter > 5cm between January 2009 and December 2016. Patients with tumor invading adjacent structures were excluded. The patients were divided into the VATS group (n = 132) and thoracotomy group (n = 223). Propensity score matching (1:1) was applied.Results: After propensity score matching, 204 patients were matched, and clinical characteristics of the two groups were well balanced. The VATS group was associated with a shorter length of hospital stay (6 days vs. 7 days; P < 0.001) than the thoracotomy group. There were no significant differences in the 5-year overall survival (71.5% in VATS vs. 64.4% in thoracotomy, P = 0.390) and 5-year recurrence-free survival (60.1% in VATS vs. 51.5% in thoracotomy, P = 0.210) between the two groups. The cumulative incidence of ipsilateral pleural recurrence was not significantly different between the two groups (12.0% in VATS vs. 7.9% in thoracotomy; P = 0.582).Conclusions: In clinical N0 NSCLC larger than 5cm, VATS lobectomy resulted in shorter hospital stay and similar survival outcome compared to open lobectomy. Based on these results, VATS lobectomy is a valuable option in this subset of patients.
Linear Late Gadolinium Enhancement In The Basal Anterior Septum And Lateral Wall May Represent The Anterior Septal Perforator Artery And Circumflex Artery, Respectively: A CMR And CCTA Comparison Study
Authors: Ma Peisong , Shang Yongnning , Hu Yurou , Liu Juan , Zhou Xiaoyue , Wang Jian
Published: May 2021

Purpose: The purpose of this paper was to verify that the linear high-intensity signal on late gadolinium enhancement-cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR) may represent the contrast enhancement of vessels rather than scars or fibrosis, and to assess whether this linear high-intensity signal will affect the quantification of myocardial fibrosis in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).Methods: A total of 58 patients who underwent both coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and LGE-CMR in our hospital were ultimately enrolled. The definitions of positive linear LGE (LLGE+) were as follows: (1) LLGE in the basal anterior septum or lateral wall, and (2) LLGE observable at 10 mm or more. All other patients were regarded as negative LLGE (LLGE-). In LLGE+ patients, the length of the LLGE located in the anterior septum and lateral wall was compared with the length of the septal perforator artery and the circumflex artery on CCTA, respectively. For nine patients with HCM, the LGE% was measured before and after removal of LLGE.Results: Among the 58 patients, 40 of whom showed LLGE+ and 18 of whom showed LLGE-. For patients with LLGE in the anterior septum, there was a strong correlation between LLGE and anterior septal perforator arteries in length (r=0.887, p<0.001). For patients with LLGE in the lateral wall, LLGE also correlated well with the circumflex arteries in length (r=0.962, p<0.001). In nine patients with HCM, the LGE% decreased significantly after the removal of LLGE (18.6 [14.15 - 27.5] vs. 12.4 [9.8 - 17.5], p<0.05).Conclusions: The LLGE in the anterior septum and lateral wall may represent contrast enhancement of the anterior septal perforator artery and the circumflex artery, respectively. This LLGE may overestimate the extent of myocardial fibrosis in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Neuroendocrine Control of Brown Adipocytes: Functions, Beiging, Whitening and Autophagy
Authors: De Winne Catalina , Lopez-Vicchi Felicitas , Boneo Luz Etcheverry , Ornstein Ana Maria , Lacau-Mengido Isabel Maria , Sorianello Eleonora , Becu-Villalobos Damasia
Published: May 2021

Adipose tissue has emerged as a fundamental player in metabolic and energy processes. Beyond its fat storage capacity, it displays adaptive mechanisms to react to metabolic challenges throughout life. Three types of adipocytes, white, brown and beige, share common and yet fundamentally different roles and molecular regulation. This review focuses on brain and endocrine control of the function and plasticity of brown and beige adipocytes. The involvement of brain circuits controlling brown adipocytes and thermogenesis via the sympathetic nervous system is described. This autonomic control is mainly exerted by the hypothalamus and brainstem, and noradrenaline released from sympathetic efferent postganglionic fibers interacts with brown or beige b3 adrenoreceptors (b3Adr) to trigger a cascade of events favorable to thermogenesis. Metabolic plasticity in response to environmental or hormonal cues, such as high fat diets, temperature, or hormones and aging, has been identified as a hallmark feature of brown/beige adipocytes. Besides the plastic response of WAT beiging, which is the generation of brown-like adipocytes within white adipose depots, diet-induced obesity and other cues evoke vascular remodeling and functional hypoxia in BAT leading to a whitening phenotype, characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and loss, lipid droplet accumulation, and decreased thermogenesis. A detailed analysis of the participation of autophagy, and the endocrine signals relied by prolactin and growth hormone uncovers potential avenues of intervention to improve the metabolic function of BAT. Because BAT dysfunction in rodents is linked to fat gain, and glucose and lipid disorders, targeting BAT function and WAT beiging holds promise for obesity prevention and metabolic improvement.
Antigen-Capture ELISA And Immunochromatographic Test Strip To Detect The H9N2 Subtype Avian Influenza Virus Rapidly Based On Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Xiao Yixin , Yang Fan , Liu Fumin , Yao Hangping , Wu Nanping , Wu Haibo
Published: May 2021

Background: The H9N2 subtype of avian influenza virus (AIV) has become the most widespread subtype of AIV among birds in Asia, which threatens the poultry industry and human health. Therefore, it is important to establish methods for the rapid diagnosis and continuous surveillance of H9N2 subtype AIV.Methods: In this study, an antigen-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (AC-ELISA) and a colloidal gold immunochromatographic test (ICT) strip using monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) 3G4 and 2G7 were established to detect H9N2 subtype AIV. Results: The AC-ELISA method and ICT strip can detect H9N2 subtype AIV quickly, and do not cross-react with other subtype AIVs or other viruses. The detection limit of AC-ELISA was a hemagglutinin (HA) titer of 4 for H9N2 subtype AIV per 100 μl sample, and the limit of detection of the HA protein of AIV H9N2 was 31.5 ng/ml. The ICT strip detection limit was an HA titer of 4 for H9N2 subtype AIV per 100 μl sample. Moreover, both detection methods exhibited good reproducibility and repeatability, with coefficients of variation < 5%. For detection in 200 actual poultry samples, the sensitivities and specificities of AC-ELISA were determined as 93.2% and 98.1%, respectively. The sensitivities and specificities of the ICT strips were determined as 90.9% and 97.4%, respectively. Conclusions: The developed AC-ELISA and ICT strips displayed high specificity, sensitivity, and stability, making them suitable for rapid diagnosis and field investigation of H9N2 subtype AIV.
Shift Quality Optimization of Clutchless Automatic Mechanical Transmission Based on a Novel Synchronizer
Authors: Zhang Lipeng , Peng Yun-ao , Yang Haojie
Published: May 2021

The synchronizer is a key component of the clutchless automatic mechanical transmission (AMT) for electric vehicles, but the inertial lock-ring synchronizer (ILRS) commonly used there is not very suitable for pure electric vehicles. To realize the rapid and smooth shifting with little impact, a new synchronizer named pressure-controllable friction ring synchronizer (PCFRS) is researched. Initially, the mechanical characteristics of the new synchronizer are analyzed, and the advantages over the ILRS are reflected. Furthermore, the dynamic transmission formulation based on the working mechanism of the PCFRS is established. Finally, the shift effects of the two kinds of synchronizers are simulated and compared. The research shows that the PCFRS can meet the main shifting evaluation index of an AMT without complex control methods, as well as it takes only 0.2406s to finish the comfortable shifting-no speed difference shifting. The shifting quality of PCFRS is better than that of the ILRS. It lays the foundation for the use of the new synchronizer for the clutchless AMTs of electric vehicles.
Hypermethylation of Mest Promoter Causes Aberrant Wnt Signaling in the Patients of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Prasad Renuka , Jung Hwajin , Tan Anderson , Song Yonghee , Moon Sungho , Shaker Mohammed R. , Sun Woong , Lee Junghee , Ryu Hoon , Lim Hyun Kook , Jho Eek-hoon
Published: May 2021

Background: The expression of mesoderm-specific transcript (Mest) is regulated by genomic imprinting where only the paternal allele is active for transcription. Mest is a candidate gene for Silver-Russell Syndrome, and hypermethylation of Mest promoter is associated with oligozoospermia. In addition, Loss of imprinting (LOI) is often associated with various neurodegenerative diseases and cancers. Since aberrant Mest hypermethylation and LOI are implicated in various diseases, it is vital to study Mest promoter hypermethylation and its functional role in AD patients. Methods: To assess the Mest promoter methylation, bisulfite sequencing technique was used. CRIPSR/Cas9 system was used to generate the Mest knockout (KO) in both embryonic carcinoma and mouse embryonic stem cells. Lentiviral Split-Cas9 system (LSC-5) was employed to generate inducible Mest KO in neurons. Results: We found that Mest promoter is hypermethylated, which led to the reduction of Mest mRNA levels and activation of Wnt signaling in the brain tissues of AD patients. Mest KO in both embryonic carcinoma and mouse embryonic stem cells leads to neuronal differentiation arrest. Depletion of Mest in primary hippocampal neurons via lentivirus expressing sh-Mest or inducible KO system caused neurodegeneration. Notably, depletion of Mest in rat primary cortical neurons leads to tau phosphorylation at S199 and T231 sites. Conclusion: Our study has unfolded the epigenetic modification; Mest promoter hypermethylation in AD. Biochemically, we have linked this with Wnt signaling activation and Tau phosphorylation in neurons.
Depression and Anxiety Among Men Undergoing ART Treatment
Authors: Liu Zhangshun , Zhang Li , Shao Hongfang , Huo Mian , Chen Jie , Tao Minfang
Published: May 2021

Objective: This prospective longitudinal study aimed at assessing the psychological status, especially depression and anxiety across different phases of ART treatments in subfertile men. Methods: During January 2016 to December 2018, 1248 fertile couples were recruited to participate in the prospective study. The Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used to evaluate the presence of mental health problems in both husbands and wives at the day of initiation, oocyte retrieval and embryo transplantation respectively. Clinical pregnancy is defined as the presence of at least one intrauterine gestational sac with ultrasound assessment after a positive human chorionic gonadotropin assessment.Results: In total, 1248 infertile couples undergoing ART treatment participated in this prospective study. The clinical pregnancy rate was 42.4% in this study. The subject with SAS score ≥ 50 was classified as anxiety and SDS ≥ 53 as depression. The incidence of male anxiety and depression in the three assessment points in pregnant group were 8.48%, 8.07%, 8.07% and 9.04%, 8.90%, 10.71% respectively; In the nonpregnant group, the corresponding data were 9.75%, 6.05%, 10.02% and 6.43%, 6.99%, 9.07% respectively, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05).Conclusions: Although the SAS and SDS scores were higher in the nonpregnant group than those in the pregnant group, there was no statistical difference in the incidence of anxiety and depression between the two groups, and we concluded that male anxiety and depression are not closely associated with the ART clinical pregnancy rate.
Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia: Novel Biopolymer Producing Plant Pathogen
Authors: zohra rashida rahmat , SIDDIQUI AYESHA , SYED BUSHRA , SALEEM MAHNOOR , SHAHID HEEBA
Published: May 2021

Biopolymers are making their way into the global market very rapidly owing to their biodegradability and environmentally friendly characteristics. Xanthan, a microbial polysaccharide is being produced by plant pathogens. It is widely used in numerous industrial applications. In the current study, plant pathogenic bacterial strains were isolated from infected plants and screened for biopolymer production. Several strains having higher yield of polymer were further subjected to the physicochemical and genomic analysis. The highest biopolymer producing strain Stenotrophomonas maltophilia X2 was found to be novel in commercial exploitation for biopolymer production. It was concluded that, the strain Stenotrophomonas maltophilia X2 can produce higher yield of biopolymer under static condition; in self formulated medium containing 5% sucrose at pH 7.0 when incubated at 28°C for 120 hours.
Ex-vivo analysis platforms for amyloid precursor protein cleavage
Authors: Kamikubo Yuji , Jin Hao , Niisato Kazue , Hashimoto Yoshie , Takasugi Nobumasa , Sakurai Takashi
Published: May 2021

Neurodegeneration is the progressive disruption of function or structure of neuronal network in central and peripheral nerve system. Generally, neurodegenerative disease including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) occur as a result of neurodegenerative processes. AD is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. Large numbers of senile plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and cerebral atrophy are characteristic features of AD. The main component of senile plaques is amyloid β peptide (Aβ), derive from the amyloid precursor protein (APP). AD has been extensively studied using cell line, primary culture of neural cells, and animal models, however, some discrepancy is observed in these results. Therefore, it is necessary to connect these experimental models to understand AD. In order to analyze long-term neuronal development and plasticity, and progressive neurodegenerative disease, experimental platform amenable to continuous observation and experimental manipulation is required. In this report, we provide a practical method to slice and cultivate hippocampal to consecutively investigate the cleavage of APP and the secretion of Aβ.
Evaluation of Groundwater Quality for Drinking and Irrigational Purposes in a Coastal Alluvial Aquifer using Multivariate Statistical Approach: A Case Study from West Godavari Delta, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: P Swarna Latha
Published: May 2021

The present study investigates the groundwater quality for drinking and irrigational purposes in a coastal aquifer of the West Godavari delta region based on geochemical evaluation and multivariate statistical analysis. The study area is underlain by the Quaternary sediments with unconsolidated and semi consolidated sand, silt and clay formation. The significant hydro chemical facies of groundwater observed throughout the study is Na-Mg-Cl-HCO3, Na-Cl- HCO3, and Mg- Na- Cl -HCO3 −. The results revealed that the area occupied high salinity ground waters controlling by evaporation and also rock weathering-solubilization to some extent. The abundance of chemical parameters are Na+ > K+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ = Cl− > HCO− 3 > SO42− > NO32−. The analyzed water quality parameters were compared with the Bureau of Indian Standards for their suitability for domestic usage. The chemical constituents of samples TA (85%), TDS (100%), TH (83%), Mg2+ (91%), Cl− (81%), and SO42− (12%) exceeded the limits, hence, are unsuitable for drinking. The irrigation suitability parameters such as Na%, SAR, RSC, PI, CAI, KR, and CCR were calculated for assessing groundwater for agriculture purposes. Most of the samples show excess values, which revealed that the ground waters was not even suitable for irrigation because of providing low productivity. However, some samples ranging between the good and moderate categories can be used for irrigation with proper management. The multivariate statistical analysis was performed to understand the relationship of chemical constituents presents in groundwater. TDS is highly correlated with EC, TH, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, HCO− 3, and Cl−. Principal component analysis (PCA) applied to the data sets showed that the first three PCs accounted for 65% of total variance cumulatively 94.5% for a total of seven PCs. It represents the quality of groundwater deviation is possibly attributed to various anthropogenic and geogenic factors, rock-water interactions and ion-exchange processes in groundwater. The uncontrolled drawl of sub-surface waters and aqua forming at an advanced rate when compare to recharge led to the coastal aquifers in critical stage, particularly in the study region Godavari delta of Andhra Pradesh state in southern India.
Prognostic value of estimated plasma volume status in patients with sepsis
Authors: Kim Kyung Hoon , Cho Hyeong Jun , Kim Seok Chan , Lee Jongmin
Published: May 2021

Background: Sepsis is associated with endothelial dysfunction and alteration of capillary permeability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of estimated plasma volume status (ePVS) in patients with sepsis or septic shock who were admitted to intensive care unit (ICU).Methods: In this single-center, prospective observational study, 100 patients with sepsis or septic shock who were admitted ICU were enrolled. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for confounding factors.Results: The in-hospital mortality was 47%. The mean ePVS in patients who died was higher than in those who survived (7.7 ± 2.1 dL/g vs. 6.6 ± 1.6 dL/g, P = 0.003). To evaluate the utility of ePVS in predicting in-hospital mortality, a receiver operating characteristic curve was produced. Sensitivity and specificity were optimal at a cut-off point of 7.09 dL/g, with an area under the curve of 0.655. In the multivariate analysis, higher ePVS was significantly associated with higher in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 1.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.04 – 1.85, P = 0.028). The Kaplan-Meier curve showed that an ePVS value above 7.09 is associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality compared to the rest of the population (P = 0.004).Conclusions: The ePVS provided additional prognostic value in patients with sepsis or septic shock who were admitted in the ICU.
Excitation of Surface Plasmon-Polariton Wave at Both Interfaces of a Silver Thin Film in Two-Layer Kretschmann geometry
Authors: Babaei Ferydon , Seyyedi Seyed Abas
Published: May 2021

In this work, a TiO2-Ag composite structure was fabricated by combination of physical vapor deposition and oblique angle deposition. The nanostructure of the TiO2 columnar thin film was analyzed using the field emission scanning electron microscopy. The excitation of the surface plasmon-polariton waves was studied using an optical setup that is called the two-layer Kretschman geometry. The results showed that two surface plasmon-polariton modes are propagated for TiO2 dielectric thin film at oblique deposition that they are related to metal-air and TiO2 - metal interfaces. The surface plasmon-polariton modes were more localized on interfaces at glancing angles of incident flux vapor. In normal incident of flux vapor only one surface plasmon-polariton mode can be excited at interface of metal-air. The results of this research may be applied in simultaneous sensing of the different molecules, chemical species and nanoparticles with different sizes.
Natural Killer Cell-Related Gene Signature Predicts Malignancy of Glioma and the Survival of Patients
Authors: Zeng Yu , Li Chenglong , Liu Zhixiong , Liu Fangkun
Published: May 2021

Background: Natural killer (NK) cells-based therapies are one of the most promising strategies against cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate the natural killer cell related genes and its prognostic value in glioma. Methods: The Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA), The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets were used to develop the natural killer cell-related signature. Risk score was built by a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model. A cohort of 326 glioma samples with whole transcriptome expression data from the CGGA database was included for discovery. TCGA dataset was used for validation. GO and KEGG were used to reveal the biological process and function associated with the natural killer cell-related signature. We also collected the clinical pathological features of patients with gliomas to analyze the association with tumor malignancy and patients’ survival.Results: We screened for NK-related genes and built a prognostic signature. Univariate and Multivariate Cox regression analysis were applied to identify and verify the risk score based on the signature. We found that NK-related risk score was independent of various clinical factors. Nature-killer cell gene expression is correlated with clinicopathological features of gliomas. Innovatively, we demonstrated the tight relation between the risk score and immune checkpoints, and found NK-related risk score combined with PD1/PDL1 patiets could predict the patient outcome. Conclusion: Natural killer cell-related gene signature can predict malignancy of glioma and the survival of patients, these results might provide new view for the research of glioma malignancy and individual immunotherapy.
Comparison Of Teriparatide And Zoledronic Acid In Post-Menopausal Women With Multiple Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures
Authors: Ji Yichao , Zhang Linlin , Yang Huilin
Published: May 2021

Objective: This retrospective comparative study was aimed to make a comparison between Teriparatide and Zoledronic Acid to provide evidence for the sequential treatment of multiple vertebral fractures caused by osteoporosis of postmenopausal women.Methods: A sum of 106 post-menopausal women undergoing non-operative treatment for recent multiple osteoporotic vertebral fractures between April,2015 and June,2019 were reviewed retrospectively. 44 patients had a treatment of subcutaneous injection of 20 micrograms teriparatide once a day (TPTD group), while 62 patients received 5 mg of zoledronic acid given by an intravenous (IV) infusion once a year (ZOL group). The assessment methods included the general information of patients, the number of new fractures and changes in bone turnover markers, bone mineral density(BMD), back pain and health-related quality of life.Results: Teriparatide was more effective than zoledronic acid in reducing the risk of new vertebral fractures. The lumbar spine BMD rosed significantly in either treatment groups relative to the baseline (P＜0.05). However, the TPTD group increased more than the ZOL group. The hip joint BMD also increased significantly in all groups between months 0 and 12 relative to the baseline（P＜0.05）, no significant differences were found between the changes of two groups after 6 months, but the TPTD group was significantly higher than the ZOL group at 12 months（P＞0.05). In the TPTD group, the values of TP1NP increased 55.9% and 70.8% from baseline(71.69±33.45ng/ml P＜0.05). The values of β-CTX increased from baseline(0.807±0.657ng/ml) to (0.842±0.528)ng/ml at 6 months and the value got back to the baseline at 12 months after the TPTD used. In the ZOL group, the values of TP1NP and β-CTX decreased significantly compared with baseline (69.55±39.15ng/ml, 0.691±0.456ng/ml) 6 months after treatment, which were (33.19±16.81)ng/ml and (0.422±0.267)ng/ml respectively（P＜0.05. No significant changes were found 12 months after treatment compared with the conditions of 6 months(P＞0.05). In both TPTD and ZOL treatment groups, there were significant and clinically relevant improvements in back pain as well as health-related quality of life indicators compared with baseline. Conclusions: TPTD is more advantageous in reducing new fractures, increasing lumbar spine and hip joint BMD and reducing patients' back pain compared with ZOL. TPTD significantly increased marker of bone formation along with slightly increased marker of bone resorption, while ZOL decreased them. This provides a theoretical basis for the apply of Zoledronic acid after discontinuation of teriparatide.
Visual Feature Encoding Ganglion Cell Response Transience Is Determined by the Summation of Converging Parallel Signals
Authors: Ganczer Alma , Szarka Gergely , Balogh Márton , Tengölics Ádám Jonatán , Kovács-Öller Tamás , Völgyi Béla
Published: May 2021

Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) summate inputs across their receptive fields and forward a corresponding spike train code to the brain. Considering the many visual aspects carried by this code the comprehension of RGC firing kinetics and the underlying mechanisms is markedly important. RGCs can generate a maintained spiking (sustained) or a quickly decaying brief burst of spikes (transient) upon ON- and/or OFF-set of prolonged light stimuli. Our results here challenge the classical view that claims an outer retinal origin for RGC response transience and explains the observed response dichotomy with the dissimilar glutamate receptor kinetics in postsynaptic bipolar cell dendritic surfaces. We find that activation of the same glutamate receptor subtype can result in transient, sustained, and intermediate RGC responses. Moreover, even signaling via a single bipolar cell subtype can result in RGC responses with a variety of transience values. Contrary, a change in the dominance of inputs delivered by converging retinal pathways can alter RGC response transience considerably. Such response component fine-tuning occurs via inner retinal GABAergic inhibitory and gap junction mediated excitatory interactions. The above data thus indicate that RGC light response temporal characteristics are determined by inner retinal microcircuits and fine-tuned in a context dependent manner.
Grouping Strategies in Numerosity Estimation between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Grouping Cues
Authors: Pan Yun , Yang Huanyu , Li Mengmeng , Zhang Jian , Cui Lihua
Published: May 2021

The number of items in an array can be quickly and accurately estimated by dividing the array into subgroups, in a strategy termed “groupitizing.” When attempting to remember a telephone number, it is better to do so by dividing the number into several segments. Different forms of visual grouping can affect the accuracy of the enumeration of a large set of items. Previous studies have found that when groupitizing, enumeration accuracy is improved by grouping arrays using visual proximity and color similarity. Based on Gestalt theory, Palmer (1992) divided perceptual grouping into intrinsic (e.g., proximity, similarity) and extrinsic (e.g., connectedness, common region) principles. Studies have investigated groupitizing effects of intrinsic grouping. However, to the best of our knowledge, no previous study has explored groupitizing effects for extrinsic grouping cues. Therefore, this study explored whether extrinsic grouping cues differed from intrinsic grouping cues for groupitizing effects in numerosity estimation. The results showed that both extrinsic and intrinsic grouping cues improved enumeration accuracy. The extrinsic grouping cues were more accurate in terms of sensory precision of the numerosity estimation than were the intrinsic grouping cues.
Phantom Validation of Polyp Automatic Detection using Microwave Endoscopy for Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
Authors: Garrido Alejandra , Sont Roberto , Dghoughi Walid , Marcoval Sergi , Romeu Jordi , Fernández-Esparrach Glòria , Belda Ignasi , Guardiola Marta
Published: May 2021

A system to integrate microwave imaging with optical colonoscopy is presented. The overarching goal is to improve the prevention, diagnosis and understanding of one of the main health and economic burdens of an increasingly ageing population that is colorectal cancer. Our system can address the two main challenges of colonoscopy – improve the detection of precancerous lesions called polyps and classify them according to their malignancy – and moves forward a major trend of the field that is automating medical explorations. To do so, a complete imaging system able to emit an alarm when a polyp is detected is designed, manufactured and validated with a realistic colon phantom composed by tissue-mimicking oil-gelatin materials reproducing the anatomy and dielectric properties of a human colon with a polyp. The acquisition is done by a miniaturized ring-shaped switched array of 16 antennas attachable at the tip of a conventional colonoscope. It has been conceived to satisfy endoscopy size restrictions, patient safety and intercompatibility with the current clinical practice. A Modified Monofocusing imaging method preceded by a previous frame average subtraction as calibration technique shows perfect detection of a 10-mm polyp (100% sensitivity and specificity) in the two analyzed trajectories. Results of realistic phantom demonstrate the feasibility of the system in future preclinical trials.
A Test and Evaluation Method for Smart Fully Mechanized Mining Robot Production System
Authors: Xie Jiacheng , Ge Fuxiang , Cui Tao , Wang Xuewen
Published: May 2021

A test and evaluation method for smart fully mechanized mining robot production system is proposed. Based on the actual operation data of the geology and equipment of a particular working face, the kinematic models between equipment and coal seam are established. The virtual off-line operation system of fully mechanized coal mining face is constructed. The mining situation of virtual operation of working face reproduced and the simulation initial data and virtual scene operation data are determined. The perception operation model is added to the virtual equipment and AI robot analysis system is constructed. Based on sensor error analysis, execution error analysis and other error analysis, the equipment and geological exploration means are input according to the parameters of smart development and operation in the future. The operation evaluation system of fully mechanized coal mining face which considers cutting track, straightness, working space and dynamic coal seam is constructed. The operation of fully mechanized mining robot in the future is simulated, the development trend is determined and the robot operation performance is tested. The related prototype system is developed, and the testing of the overall operation of the working face was improved from the aspects of smart equipment and digital sensing elements. It shows that this method realizes the reappearance of fully mechanized mining operation process based on actual operation data and operation parameters. The current level of smart mining and some local or a small aspect of technological progress on the overall operation of the working face are analyzed and evaluated. The test and evaluation method points out the direction for the development of coal mine robot and smart mining.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Hydrogen Production from Coal Base on AHP& GRA-TOPSIS
Authors: Zhong Shuheng , Yang Kangdi
Published: May 2021

Coal is the cornerstone of China's energy. However, with the proposed goal of carbon peak and carbon neutral in China, coal enterprises are in urgent need of exploring the path of transformation and development. Coal to hydrogen is an important way to achieve sustainable development of the coal industry.In this paper, four hydrogen production technologies, including coal gasification, coke oven gas, electrolytic water and solar energy, are studied.A comprehensive evaluation model based on GRA-TOPSIS was constructed.Four kinds of hydrogen production technologies are evaluated and analyzed.The research shows that the coke oven gas is the most suitable hydrogen production technology for the transformation and development of coal enterprises.The evaluation model of hydrogen production technology in the transformation and development of coal enterprises constructed in this paper has a certain guiding effect on the technology selection of coal enterprises in the development of hydrogen industry
Identifying Patterns and Motivations of ‘Mega’ Peer-Reviewers
Authors: Rice Danielle , Pham Ba’ , Presseau Justin , Tricco Andrea , Moher David
Published: May 2021

Background. The demand for peer reviewers is disproportionate to the supply and availability of reviewers. Identifying the factors associated with peer review behaviour can allow for the development of solutions to manage the growing demand for peer reviewers. The objective of this research was to identify factors associated with completing a large number of peer reviews in a given year. Methods. A case-control study design was used to examine factors associated with individuals completing at least 100 peer reviews (‘mega peer reviewers’) from January 2018 to December 2018 as compared to a control group of peer reviewers completing between 1 and 18 peer reviews over the same time period. Data was provided by Publons, which offers a repository of peer reviewer activities in addition to tracking peer reviewer publications and research metrics. A series of independent sample t-tests and chi-square tests were conducted comparing characteristics (e.g., number of publications, number of citations, word count of peer review) of mega peer reviewers to the control group of reviewers. Results. A total of 1596 peer reviewers had data provided by Publons. A total of 396 mega peer reviewers and a random sample of 1200 control group reviewers were included. Both groups were comprised of a greater number of males than females (mega peer reviews = 92.4% male, control reviewers = 70.0% male). Mega peer reviewers demonstrated a significantly greater average number of total publications, citations, receipt of Publons awards, and a higher average h index as compared to the control group of reviewers (all p < .001). Alternatively, the control group had a significantly greater average number of words in their peer reviews (mean = 332.48, standard deviation [SD] = 346.30) as compared to mega peer-reviewers (mean = 272.50, SD = 219.99). Conclusions. There is a sub-set of highly active peer reviewers that complete a large proportion of peer review activities. These individuals demonstrate significantly different characteristics than reviewers completing a more typical number of peer reviews over a one year period. Additional research that considers motivations associated with peer review behaviour should be conducted to help inform peer reviewing activity. Registration. https://osf.io/vxdhf/?view_only=313fd05399664b94bc7a9042aa225be3
Exploring Awareness of Obstetric Fistula in Eastern and Northern Nigeria: Perceived Causes, Symptoms, and Availability of Treatment Services
Authors: Nwala Emmanuel Kelechi , Nwaigwe Charles , Sri Pooja , Warren Charlotte E , Ishaku Salisu , Kongyamba Solomon
Published: May 2021

Background: Evidence suggests that there are approximately two female genital fistula cases per 1,000 women of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa. It is estimated that more than 200,000 women are affected by fistula in Nigeria, primarily due to obstetric causes. This study assessed the awareness of women, men, and caregivers about fistula causes and symptoms, as well as about the availability of and access to services in eastern and northern Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted in Kano and Ebonyi states in northern and eastern Nigeria, respectively. Focus group discussions were conducted with women who were successfully repaired and discharged (n=2) and with community-married men (n=2) and women (n=2). In-depth interviews were conducted with 18 women with fistula who were either awaiting repair or had been repaired; six family member caregivers accompanying fistula patients, and 20 health service providers at fistula repair centers. Results: There was poor knowledge of obstetric fistula and its causes among married men and women in the community, caregivers, and some patients were unaware of what caused their fistula for years. In this study, none of the community men and women nor caregivers correctly identified the causes and symptoms of a fistula or knew where to seek treatment. Knowledge about fistula was more common among women who had undergone repairs. Some repaired women attributed the cause of fistula to the providers who attended to them during delivery. Conclusion: Findings reveal a widespread lack of awareness of obstetric fistula onset and awareness of the availability of repair services at the community level. There is an urgent need to explore multi-pronged strategies for increasing awareness of obstetric fistula and available treatment services among women and other community members.
Main Actors in the New Population Policy With a Growing Trend in Iran: A Stakeholder Analysis
Authors: Jafari Hasan , Pourreza Abolghasem , Kabiri Neda , Khodayari-zarnaq Rahim
Published: May 2021

Total fertility rate in Iran has declined to below replacement level recently and a new approach has been taken to tackle this issue. Thus, this study aimed to identify the involved stakeholders and their characteristics in new population policy change in Iran. We employed a qualitative approach using the purposive sampling of key-informants and identification of relevant documents. Main stakeholders were divided into seven key groups: religious, political, governmental, professional, international sectors, media, and nongovernmental organizations. In addition, there was no centralized, clear and comprehensive mechanism to guide the activities of stakeholders to coordinate and bring total fertility rate to the replacement level in Iran. Despite the importance of new population policy in Iran, in recent years, we still experience dispersion and inconsistency among various actors in this area. It is imperative to go through a consensus and coalition at macro level authorities alongside with evidenced based population policy making.
Diagnostic value of Lung Function Test, Chest x-ray, and Pulmonary HR-CT in Detecting Interstitial Lung Disease at the Onset of Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Hoffmann Tobias Jens , Oelzner Peter , Franz Marcus , Teichgräber Ulf , Förster Martin , Böttcher Joachim , Kroegel Claus , Schulze Christian P. , Wolf Gunter , Pfeil Alexander
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a severe pulmonary complication in inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRD) and associated with a significantly increased morbidity and mortality. Therefore, ILD screening in patients with IRD is essential. The objective of the present study was to determine the diagnostic value of pulmonary function tests (PFT), chest x-ray (CXR), and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) chest imaging in detecting ILD at the onset of IRD.Methods: The case-control study included 126 patients with new onset of IRD (patients with ILD: N = 63; control group: N = 63). If pathological findings were observed in the screening tests (CXR or reduced carbon monoxide diffusion [DLCO] < 80 %), patients underwent a pulmonary HRCT. In addition, an immunological bronchioalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed in the ILD group as reference for the detection of ILD.Results: A reduced DLCO (< 80 %) showed a sensitivity of 83.6 % and specificity of 45.8 % compared to chest x-ray with 64.2 % and 73.6%, respectively, in detecting ILD. The combination of reduced DLCO and CXR revealed a sensitivity of 95.2 % and specificity of 38.7 %. The highest sensitivity (95.2 %) and specificity (77.4 %) was observed for the combination of reduced DLCO, chest x-ray, and pulmonary HRCT.Conclusion: At the beginning of the disease, IRD-patients with ILD show a reduced DLCO which could be a sensitive tool for ILD-screening in IRD at the onset of the disease. Only patients with pathological findings in PFT and chest x-ray should undergo pulmonary HRCT. With this stepwise IRD-associated ILD screening approach, nearly 25 % of HRCT and therefore unnecessary radiation exposure can be avoided.
The Relationship Between Erythrocyte Membrane Fatty Acid Content and Serum Adiponectin Level in Military Personnel, a Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Rostami Hossein , Samadi Mohammad , Sepandi Mojtaba
Published: May 2021

Background: Military personnel compared to civilian people are more prone to cardiovascular disease (CVD) however the relationship between dietary fatty acid intake and CVD markers is not well established in them. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between dietary fatty acid intake and erythrocyte membrane fatty acid content as well as serum adiponectin and lipid profile in military personnel.Method: Four hundred military personnel were recruited from the population of army individuals in Iran. The dietary fatty acid intake was determined from a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) completed by each military personnel. Fasting blood samples were also obtained from each individual and fatty acids derived from erythrocyte membrane, serum lipid profile and adiponectin levels were measured. The correlation between dietary fatty acid intake and biochemical parameters were analyzed by univariate regression analysis.Results: There was a negative significant association between total saturated fatty acid, lauric, myristic, palmitic acid and a positive association between eicosapentanoic acid and docosahexanoic acid in erythrocyte-membrane with adiponectin level. Moreover, we found that dietary SFA intake had a significant negative correlation with serum adiponectin level. In addition, dietary SFA intake showed a significant positive correlation with serum total cholesterol and LDL-c levels. In contrary, dietary PUFA and MUFA intake revealed a significant inverse association with serum cholesterol level and LDL-c. Conclusion: We concluded that dietary SCFAs might be associated with lower serum adiponectin and higher cholesterol levels, and suggest that CVD risk factor might be suppressed, by reducing dietary SCFA intake.
Assessment of the Ability of CESM1 to Simulate the Atmospheric Teleconnection Excited by the Atlantic Multidecadal Variability in Summer
Authors: Si Dong , Hu Aixue , Jiang Dabang , Lang Xianmei
Published: May 2021

Observational analysis shows that the Atlantic Multidecadal Variability (AMV) is a major driver of climate variability in the Northern Hemisphere through a zonal atmospheric teleconnection extending from the North Atlantic Ocean and propagating eastward around the Northern Hemisphere. We studied the fidelity of model simulations in reproducing the observed summer AMV and the associated impacts on the Earth’s climate by analyzing simulations using the National Center for Atmospheric Research Community Earth System Model Version 1 (CESM1), including CESM1 idealized and time–series pacemaker simulations, CESM1 large ensemble twentieth century uninitialized simulations and large ensemble initialized CESM1 decadal predictions. To further compare the fidelity of CESM1, we also analyzed large ensemble simulations from four other models. Our results suggest that the uninitialized large ensemble simulations from all models can produce an AMV time evolution and its regional climate impacts similar to the observations to certain degree. By initializing the observed oceanic condition in decadal prediction simulations, the simulated AMV and its regional impacts are closer to the observed ones than those in uninitialized ensemble simulations. In addition, the time–series pacemaker simulations that nudged the observed North Atlantic sea surface temperature anomalies produces spatiotemporal characteristics of the AMV and AMV climate impacts closer to the observed ones than the uninitialized simulations. We conclude that although coupled models can reproduce the observed AMV and its regional impacts, proper initialization and bias correction of the sea surface temperature spatial structure can significantly improve this capability. Further improvements in the fidelity of the simulated AMV depend on how to reduce model biases, especially the simulated teleconnections.