bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-resolution Simulations of Decadal Climate Variability Impacts on Spring and Winter Wheat Yields in the Missouri River Basin with the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT)
Authors: Mehta Vikram , Mendoza Katherin , Rosenberg Norman J. , Sriniva Raghavan
Published: May 2021

The Missouri River Basin (MRB) encompasses one of the most important agricultural regions in the world. Three decadal climate variability (DCV) phenomena - the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), the tropical Atlantic sea surface temperature (SST) gradient variability (TAG), and the West Pacific Warm Pool (WPWP) variability – substantially influence hydro-meteorology and, consequently, spring and winter wheat yields in the MRB as indicated by data from 1961 to 2010. We applied the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to simulate DCV impacts on wheat yields in response to realistic values of the DCV indices in approximately 13,500 hydrologic unit areas covering the MRB. SWAT, driven by scenarios of past hydro-meteorological anomalies associated with positive and negative phases of the PDO and TAG, indicated major impacts on wheat yields, as much as ± 40% of the average in many locations, with smaller impacts of the WPWP variability. SWAT showed much larger wheat yield increases when the positive phase of the PDO and the negative phase of the TAG are superposed, and an equivalent decrease in yields when opposite phases of the two DCV phenomena are superposed. Thus, combined effects of DCV phenomena on wheat yields in the MRB can be dramatic with important consequences for food production and security. The usefulness of this inter-disciplinary study to farmers and other stakeholders for adapting MRB agriculture to DCV, and the applicability of the methodology to other agricultural regions are described. The results’ implications for detection and attribution of climatic change impacts are also described.
The Dynamics of the Vaginal Micro-Ecology During in Vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer (IVF-ET) Cycles and its Impact on Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Tian Quan , Liu Yujie , Liu Jiane , Wu Jianru , Liu Jianxin , Tang Xiuming , Hu Weihong , Liu Xia
Published: May 2021

BackgroundAbnormal reproductive tract flora may cause infertility, and it may play a key role in the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The obvious short-term changes in estrogen caused by clinical protocols with IVF-ET provide a unique perspective for us to assess the vaginal flora, shifting hormonal condition and investigate the potential associations of the vaginal micro-ecology with cycle outcome of pregnancy. The Vaginal Micro-ecology Evaluation System (VMES) as a tool to analyze the vaginal microbiomes in most areas of China. This study aims to apply the VMES to evaluate the dynamics of vaginal micro-ecology during IVF-ET, and investigate the correlations between vaginal micro-ecology with pregnancy outcome.Methods　150 patients were enrolled who underwent early follicular phase prolonged protocol IVF-ET due to tubal factors. The VMES is used to evaluate vaginal microbiology indicators of vaginal swabs obtained in different hormonal milieu during the IVF-ET cycle. The pregnancy outcomes were observed, if pregnant.Results　In our data, the prevalence of bacterial vaginitis (BV) accounts for 3.3%. During IVF procedure, the vaginal microbiome varied across hormonal milieu in some but not all patients. The proportion of BV, and unidentified dysbiosis were increased significantly on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) administration. The vaginal micro-ecology on the day of HCG administration correlated with outcome (live birth / no live birth). The multivariable logistic regression model showed that the average age, the duration of infertility, and the vaginal micro-ecology after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) were associated with the live birth rate.ConclusionOur retrospective cohort study suggests that the VEMS has enabled discovery of unidentified dysbiosis shift in the vaginal micro-ecology during IVF-ET therapy. More importantly, the vaginal micro-ecology on the day of HCG administration was significantly associated with the live birth rate.
Dental care course and oral quality of life in patients with X-linked hypophosphatemia: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Friedlander Lisa , Nguyen Caroline , Celestin Elisabeth , Chambolle Delphine , Linglart Agnès , Duplan Martin Biosse , Chaussain Catherine
Published: May 2021

Background. X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare, hereditary, progressive, and lifelong phosphate wasting disorder characterized by pathological elevations in fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 23 serum concentration and activity. In the oral cavity, spontaneous abscesses can occur often without any clinical signs of alteration of the causal tooth. The objective of our study was to evaluate the readability of the oral care pathway and the oral quality of life of patients followed in an expert oral medicine department located within a Parisian hospital and working in close collaboration with an endocrinology department expert in this pathology. Methods. This study employed a qualitative descriptive design including semi-structured interviews using guiding themes. Results. Twenty-one patients were included in the study, with an average age of 28 years. The topics discussed exceeded the initial objectives as the patients largely addressed the alteration of their oral and general quality of life, a very chaotic oral health care pathway with oral health professionals not aware of their pathology, consequences on their social, professional, and school integration and access to care complicated by financial factors. Patients reported the importance of having a multidisciplinary team around them, including medical and dental professionals.Conclusions. The variety of manifestations in patients with XLH necessitates a high coordination of multidisciplinary patient care to optimize quality of life and reduce disease burden. Education of oral health professionals on this disease is essential to enable patients to receive the best possible care as early as possible.
Integrated Proactive Drought Management in Hydrosystems and 2 Cities: Building a Nine-Step Participatory Planning Methodology
Authors: Filho Francisco de Assis Souza , Studart Ticiana Marinho de Carvalho , Filho Joao Dehon Pontes , Martins Eduardo Sávio Passos Rodrigues , Ayrimoraes Sérgio Rodrigues , Pessoa Carlos Alberto Perdigão , Rolim Larissa Zaira Rafael , Junior Luiz Martins de Araújo , Carvalho Taís Maria Nunes , de Aquino Sandra Helena Silva
Published: May 2021

Drought is widely known as a complex natural hazard, not just by its climatological features but also by human experiences and socio-economical impacts. Drought preparedness is the only way a society can mitigate effects and better cope with droughts. Here we present a methodological approach to guide the implementation of proactive drought plans, specially designed for hydrossystems and cities scales. We highlight strategies to engage local stakeholders in constructing such plans and build a participatory methodology. The preparedness drought plan methodology was developed and applied to two hydrosystems and two cities located in the Piranhas-Açu river basin, a drought-prone area of Brazilian Semi-arid. Our findings suggest that participatory socio-technical methodologies, built only from the system operators' tacit knowledge, can achieve good results when data and resources are limited. Still, results can be enhanced by hydrologic and hydraulic modeling to assess vulnerability, scenarios and strategies. We illustrate and analyze the process by storytelling to develop a meaningful and convincing narrative that speaks to theory and practice, and we provide recommendations to facilitate this approach.
Listening to ultrasound from plants reveals xylem vessel anatomy
Authors: Dutta Satadal , Kaiser Elias , Matamoros Priscila , Steeneken Peter , Verbiest Gerard
Published: May 2021

Plants emit ultrasound pulses under drought stress, which originate in their water-carrying xylem vessels, and can be recorded externally. We demonstrate that these ultrasound pulses consist of superposed damped oscillations at plant-specific frequencies in the range of 10 – 150 kHz, that are correlated to xylem dimensions. We present a method to relate geometrical and viscoelastic properties of xylem vessels with the time- and frequency-domain characteristics of the observed oscillations. We apply the method to ultrasound pulses from drying shoots of three vascular dicot plant species. The extracted parameters are validated with destructive measurements of xylem vessel radii, wall thickness, length of xylem vessel elements, and the elastic modulus of the vascular bundle by optical and scanning cryo-electron microscopy and tensile loading. Our method demonstrates the potential for non-invasive and continuous monitoring of plant vascular anatomy. We foresee applications in high-throughput phenotyping and early detection of vascular wilt diseases.
The Nexus Between Financial Development and Renewable Energy Consumption: A Review For Emerging Countries
Authors: SAYGIN OGUZ , İskenderoğlu Ömer
Published: May 2021

The relationship between financial development and energy consumption is the most frequently research field in finance and economy. The main objective of carrying out this study is to answer that is there a relationship between financial development and renewable energy consumption in emerging countries? In many studies carried out in international literature, the empirical findings were pointing to the existence of this relationship. In order to examine the relationship between financial development and renewable energy consumption, a total of 20 emerging countries, benefited from annual frequency data between 1990 and 2015. The system GMM estimation was used as the method of study. As a result of the analysis performed indicates that financial development does not impact renewable energy consumption in emerging countries when financial development is measured using both banking and stock market variables. Additionally, it can be said that the financial development increases renewable energy consumption if it is measured by only stock market capitalization.
PPARγ and PGC-1α activators protect against diabetic nephropathy by suppressing the inflammation and NF-κB activation
Authors: Jin Yuanmeng , Zhang Liwen , Zhou Ying , Wang Weiming , Chen Nan
Published: May 2021

Background: Inflammation played critical roles in the progression of various kidney diseases and leaded to irreversible kidney fibrosis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and its coactivator PPARγ coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α) negatively regulated mitochondrial biogenesis, cellular energy metabolism, and inflammation. But the cooperative molecular mechanism of them in kidney remained unclear. The aim of present study was to investigate this issue.Methods: Human proximal tubular HK-2 cell line was stimulated by inflammatory factors, and the expression of PPARγ and its coregulators were determined via reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, and DNA binding capacity was measured by EMSA. Furthermore, db/db mice were used to establish a diabetic nephropathy model and administrated with PPARγ and PGC-1α activator. Kidney injury was evaluated microscopically, and inflammatory mechanism was assessed by western blotting.Results: Our results revealed that either TNF-α or IL-1b could significantly decreased PPARγ and PGC-1 expression in vitro. Cytokines also obviously inhibited PPARγ DNA binding activities. Meanwhile, we detected rapid activation of NF-κB pathway under the same experimental conditions. PPARγ and PGC-1α activators effectively protect against diabetic nephropathy and suppress NF-κB expression in db/db mice.Conclusions: PPARγ and its coactivator PGC-1α actively participated in the protection against renal inflammation through regulating NF-κB pathway, which highlighted a potential therapeutic target for renal diseases.
New Method of Determining Decision Making Unit Congestion under Inter-Temporal Dependence
Authors: Shahsavan Tahereh , Sanei masoud , Tohidi Ghasem , Lotfi Farhad Hosseinzadeh , Ghobadi Saeid
Published: May 2021

Congestion is an important concept in data envelopment analysis (DEA). It occurs when the decrease of at least one decision making unit (DMU) input results in the increase of at least one output ineffective on other inputs or outputs. Until present, various methods have been discussed in terms of congestion determination in static DEA although no study has still been performed on congestion calculation in dynamic DEA under inter-temporal dependence. In this paper, congested input levels in multi-period production systems under inter-temporal dependence and further, the inter-temporal dependence of production periods due to the stock capital are studied. The advantage of dynamic DEA congestion method specification lies in the prevention of inappropriate resources allocation during evaluation periods. The validity of the proposed method has further been demonstrated via empirical example for better observation.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Discectomy with Foraminoplasty in the Treatment of L4-L5 and L5-S1 Disc Herniation: A Minimum 1-year Follow-up Study.
Authors: Jiang Haowei , Wang Yongli , Fang Tianshun , Nie Jiangbo , Jin Mingchao , Lu Qian , Jiang Xuesheng
Published: May 2021

Background

The anatomic and biomechanical aspects of the L5-S1 level present unique operative challenges compared with the L4-L5 level. We aim to explore the clinical outcomes and radiographic measurements of L4-L5 patients compared with L5-S1 patients after undergoing Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Discectomy with Foraminoplasty (PETDF).
Methods

A total of 84 patients who underwent PETDF for LDH treatment between January 2017 and June 2020 were included in this study. Preoperative, perioperative, demographic data, clinical and radiographic outcomes were compared between patients with L4-L5 involvement and patients with L5-S1 involvement.
Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of Age, Gender, Follow-up time, the postoperative questionnaire results (Visual Analog Scale [leg], VAS [lower back], and Oswestry Disability Index) or the Excellence and Good Rate and Recurrence Rate. There was no significant difference in the mean preoperative to postoperative change in Intervertebral Space Height (ISH), Intervertebral Space Angle (ISA), Lumbar Lordosis, Foraminal Area (FA) of Operating Side and FA of Contralateral Side between the 2 groups. The mean VAS of Leg Pain, VAS of Lower Back Pain and ODI postoperative scores were significantly improved over the preoperative scores in each of the two groups and the ISH, ISA, FA of Operating Side and FA of Contralateral Side postoperative were significant difference form preoperative
Conclusion

PETDF is an effective and safe treatment approach for lumbar disc herniation in both L4/L5 and L5/S1 level. Although it may increase lumbar ISA and result in low CFA (contralateral foraminal area) and ISH.
Seroimmunity status to Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Varicella-Pertussis- Diphtheria -Tetanus among Students Accepted to Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, North of Iran, 2018-2019: Planning for Prevetive Method.
Authors: Saffar Hana , Mousavi Sayed Jaber , Saffar Hiva , Shiraj Hanieh , Mohammed-Jafar Saffar
Published: May 2021

Background. Healthcare sciences students(HSS)are at the higher risk of exposure to several infections during training. The most important are measles, mumps, varicella, pertussis and influenza, that are transmitted easily via respiratory routes. These infections are vaccine preventable, and commonly are more complicated while develop during adulthood. Confirming immunity before training are recommended, however, adherence to the policy is not satisfactory universally. To evaluate immunity status, and to determine the most appropriate approach to provide full protection against these infections, this study was designed. Methods. A cross-sectional study among newly accepted HSS was conducted. Their past vaccination status, and medical history of compatible clinical diseases were sought by personal interview and self-administered questionnaire. Sera specific IgG antibodies to these infections were measured using ELISA. The relative proportion of seroimmune students were calculated. The correlation between past clinical diseases and their immune status particularly among those who showed no history of earlier vaccination were determined. The most appropriate policy to provide full protection was determined. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods as appropriate. Results. Overall, 242 students with mean age 23.9 years, 59% female were participated. All HSS declared that they had been vaccinated according to the national immunization program. Among them 188 students with additional dose of measles- rubella (MR), and 54 by measles- mumps- rubella (MMR) vaccines were re-vaccinated.Overall seropositivity rates were as: measles-80.1%, mumps-64%, rubella-93.4%, varicella-78.5%, pertussis-46.5%, diphtheria-87.3%, and tetanus-87.2%. There were not significant differences between two groups of HSS; MR vs MMR re-vaccinated students. The most cost-benefits strategy to provide immunity against MMR agents were universal vaccination. Conclusion. Nearly 63%of HSS were susceptible to MMR viruses, and universal MMR vaccination of the students just before training was the most appropriate policy to provide immunity. Efforts should be made to incorporate adult-type acellular pertussis vaccine to diphtheria- tetanus toxoids to and varicella vaccine provide protection against these agents.
Microanalysis of Two Members of Oxicam Drugs by Quenching the Fluorescence of Newly Isolated Carbonaceous Materials From Incense Ash
Authors: Rizk. Mohamed Mohamed Salem , gadallah. Emad Ramzy gadallah. abd el malak , manakhly nabil abdel ghany. , Toubar. Safaa shafik , solliman Marwa Helmy
Published: May 2021

For the first time ever, useful fluorescent (FL) carbonaceous materials (CMTS) were isolated from incense ash using facile procedure on two steps; dispersion of the CMTS in water followed by filtration. The CMTS were characterized using the following techniques; dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The CMTS exhibit excitation wavelength dependent fluorescence emission, so it can be used as a FL probe. The FL probe was employed for sensing and quantitative determination of two members of oxicam family (tenoxicam (TEN) and meloxicam (MEL)) that belongs to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The method is based on the quenching of the FL intensity of the isolated CMTS by inner filter effect mechanism (IFE). The FL intensity decreases in linear relationship with the concentrations of the two cited drugs within the range of 4.0 – 30.0 µg/mL and mean percentage recoveries of 100.04 ± 0.95 and 100.07± 1.06 with detection limits of 1.31 µg/mL and 1.06 µg/mL for TEN and MEL , respectively. Finally, the developed sensing system was validated as per ICH guidelines and it was proved to be accurate and precise and applied successfully for quantitative determination of the two cited drugs in their capsule dosage forms with excellent percentage recoveries reaching to 97.66 ± 0.39and 98.19 ± 1.12 for TEN and MEL, respectively.
Evidence for a Compact Object in the Aftermath of the Extra-Galactic Transient AT2018cow
Authors: Pasham Dheeraj , Ho Wynn , Alston William , Remillard Ronald , Ng Mason , Gendreau Keith , Metzger Brian , Altamirano Diego , Chakrabarty Deepto , Fabian Andrew , Miller Jon , Bult Peter , Arzoumanian Zaven , Steiner James , Strohmayer Tod , Tombesi Francesco , Homan Jeroen , Cackett Edward , Harding Alice
Published: May 2021

Fast Blue Optical Transients (FBOTs) are mysterious extragalactic explosions that may represent a new class of astrophysical phenomena. Their fast time to maximum brightness of less than 10 days and decline over less than 2 months and unusual optical spectra and evolution are difficult to explain within the context of core-collapse of massive stars which are powered by radioactive decay of Nickel-56 and evolve slowly on months timescales. AT2018cow (at a redshift of 0.014) is an extreme FBOT both in terms of rapid evolution and high X-ray and bolometric luminosities. Several alternative hypotheses have been proposed to explain its unusual properties. These include shock interactions with dense circumstellar medium, tidal disruption of a star by a 10,000−million solar mass black hole, failed supernova with fallback accretion onto a newborn black hole, neutron star formed in a supernova or from merging compact objects, etc. Here, we present evidence for a high-amplitude (fractional root-mean-squared amplitude of>30%) quasi-periodic oscillation (QPO) of AT2018cow’s soft X-rays with a centroid frequency of roughly 225 Hz (statistically significant at the 3.7-sigma level, or a false alarm probability of 0.02%). This signal is found in the average power density spectrum of data taken over the entire outburst lasting roughly 60 days and thus suggests that the signal is highly persistent over several hundreds of millions of cycles (60 daysx225 Hz). This high frequency (rapid timescale) of 225 Hz (4.4 ms) argues for the presence of a compact object in AT2018cow which can either be a neutron star or a black hole, and disfavors circumstellar medium interactions for the origin of X-ray emission. Also, the QPO’s timescale sets an upper limit on the compact object's mass to be 850 solar masses, and thus disfavors models with a heavier black hole. If the QPO represents the spin period of a neutron star we can set upper limits on its magnetic field under different scenarios. This work highlights a new way of using high time-resolution X-ray observations to study FBOTs.
Structural Insight Into Host Plasma Membrane Association and Assembly of HIV-1 Matrix Protein
Authors: Ciftci Halil , Tateishi Hiroshi , Koiwai Kotaro , Koga Ryoko , Anraku Kensaku , Monde Kazuaki , Dag Cagdas , Destan Ebru , Yuksel Busra , Ayan Esra , Yildirim Gunseli , Yigin Merve , Ertem Fatma , Shafiei Alaleh , Guven Omur , Besler Sabri , Sierra Raymond , Yoon Chun , Su Zhen , Liang Meng , Acar Burcin , Haliloglu Turkan , Otsuka Masami , Yumoto Fumiaki , Fujita Mikako , Senda Toshiya , DeMirci Hasan
Published: May 2021

HIV-1 continues to be a global health concern since AIDS was first recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is estimated that there were 38 million people infected with HIV-1 and 1.5 million deaths in 2019 alone. A better understanding of the details of the HIV late-stage life cycle, involving Pr55Gag attachment to the membrane for the further oligomerization to release virion, will provide us new avenues for potential treatment. Inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) is an abundant endogenous cyclitol molecule and its binding was linked to the oligomerization of Pr55Gag via the MA domain. However, the binding site of IP6 on MA was unknown and the structural details of this interaction were missing. Here, we present three high-resolution crystal structures of the MA domain in complex with IP6 molecules to reveal its binding mode. Additionally, extensive Differential Scanning Fluorimetry analysis combined with cryo- and ambient-temperature X-ray crystallography and computational biology identify the key residues that participate in IP6 binding. Our data provide novel insights about the multilayered HIV-1 virion assembly process that involves the interplay of IP6 with PIP2, a phosphoinositide essential for the membrane binding of Pr55Gag. IP6 and PIP2 have neighboring alternate binding sites within the same highly basic region (residues 18-33). This indicates that IP6 and PIP2 bindings are not mutually exclusive and may play a key role in coordinating virion particles’ membrane localization. Based on our three different IP6-MA complex crystal structures, we propose a new model that involves the IP6 coordination of the oligomerization of outer MA and inner CA domain 2D layers during assembly and budding.
Phase-Separation of Cellulose from Ionic Liquid upon Cooling: Preparation of Microsized Particles
Authors: Xia Jingwen , King Alistair W. T. , Kilpelainen Ilkka , Aseyev Vladimir
Published: May 2021

Cellulose is an historical polymer, for which its processing possibilities have been limited by the absence of a melting point and insolubility in all non-derivatizing molecular solvents. More recently, ionic liquids (ILs) have been used for cellulose dissolution and regeneration, for example, in the development of textile fiber spinning processes. In some cases, organic electrolyte solutions (OESs), that are binary mixtures of an ionic liquid and a polar aprotic co-solvent, can show even better technical dissolution capacities for cellulose than the pure ILs. Herein we use OESs consisting of two tetraalkylphosphonium acetate ILs and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or γ-valerolactone (GVL), as co-solvents. Cellulose can be first dissolved in these OESs at 120°C and then regenerated, upon cooling, leading to micro and macro phase-separation. This phenomenon much resembles the upper-critical solution temperature (UCST) type thermodynamic transition. This observed UCST-like behavior of these systems allows for the controlled regeneration of cellulose into colloidal dispersions of spherical microscale particles (spherulites), with highly ordered shape and size. While this phenomenon has been reported for other IL and NMMO-based systems, the mechanisms and phase-behavior have not been well defined. The particles are obtained below the phase-separation temperature as a result of controlled multi-molecular association. The regeneration process is a consequence of multi-parameter interdependence, where the polymer characteristics, OES composition, temperature, cooling rate and time all play their roles. The influence of the experimental conditions, cellulose concentration and the effect of time on regeneration of cellulose in the form of preferential gel or particles is discussed.Regular micro-sized particles regenerated from a cellulose-OES mixture of tetrabutylphosphonium acetate:DMSO (70:30 w/w） upon cooling.
Tocilizumab Association with Emerging Multi-drug Resistance Organisms and Mortality in critically ill patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Multicenter, Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Aljuhani Ohoud , Sulaiman Khalid Al , Alshabasy Adel , Eljaaly Khalid , Shaya Abdulrahman I. Al , Albossiry Hyatham , Abodeif Mohammed , Dosari Bodoor Al , Alkhalaf Amina , Korayem Ghazwa , Aleissa Muneera M. , Badreldin Hisham A. , Harbi Shmeylan Al , Alhammad Abdullah , Vishwakarma Ramesh
Published: May 2021

Background:Tocilizumab is an IgG1 class recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that directly inhibits IL-6 receptor. Several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have evaluated tocilizumab’s safety and efficacy in patients with COVID-19. These studies demonstrated conflicting results regarding tocilizumab’s efficacy and safety. Our study aim is to determine the association between treatment with tocilizumab and emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria and its effect on mortality in critically ill patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).Methods:A multicenter, retrospective, cohort study conducted at two governmental tertiary hospitals in Saudi Arabia. All critically ill patients who were admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) with a positive COVID-19 PCR test between March 1st, 2020 and January 31st, 2021 were included. Patients who received tocilizumab were compared to patients who did not receive it. Results:A total of 738 patients met our inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Of these 262 (35.5%) received tocilizumab and 476 (64.5%) were included in the control group. Patients who received tocilizumab did not have higher odds for the microbial isolation (OR 1.34; 95% CI, 0.91-1.94 p = 0.13), development of resistant organisms (OR 1.00; 95% CI, 0.51-1.98 p = 0.99), or detection of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteria (CRE) (OR 0.67; 95% CI, 0.29-1.54 p = 0.34). In a multivariable logistic regression adjusting for possible cofounders, there was no difference in 30-day ICU mortality (OR 0.96; 95% CI, 0.65-1.43 p = 0.85) or in-hospital mortality (OR 1.18; 95% CI, 0.79-1.76 p = 0.42). However, there was a significant difference in the incidence of respiratory failure requiring MV between the two groups (OR 2.27; 95% CI, 1.05-4.89 p = 0.03).Conclusions: Tocilizumab use in critically ill COVID-19 patients was not associated with microbial isolation, emergence of resistant organisms, detection of CRE organisms, or mortality benefits. However, tocilizumab use was associated with an increased risk of respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation.
Community-Engaged Research to Develop a Chicago Violence Research Agenda and Recommendations to Support Future Community Engagement
Authors: Ellyin Alexander , Day Kelli , Samuel Jacqueline , Bartell Tami , McGill Dion , Sheehan Karen , Levin Rebecca
Published: May 2021

Background: Chicago has a history of gun violence with some neighborhoods, particularly Black and Brown communities, being disproportionately affected and Black male youth experiencing an even more disparate impact. Too often, violence prevention research is developed and carried out with little or no input from the people living in the most affected communities. The objective of the Community-Academic Collaboration to Prevent Violence in Chicago (CACPVC) was to bring together individuals from impacted communities with academic researchers and other community stakeholders to discuss violence and co-create a research agenda that addresses topics of mutual concern, and recommendations for engaging stakeholders including community members and organizations and funders in violence and violence prevention research.Methods: From 2014 to 2015, community members and organizations from seven defined regions across Chicago were recruited to participate. An organization network gathering was held in each region for researchers, funders, and community organization representatives to discuss violence prevention. Open community forums then took place in each community. Violence data by region was shared followed by facilitated group discussions that were recorded by youth scribes. Notes were thematically coded, grouped, and compiled after which a list of topics was refined by the CACPVC Work Group, allowing for investigator triangulation. A survey was disseminated to community stakeholders to prioritize the topics. Results: Seven network gatherings (127 attendees) and community forums (133 attendees) were held. Topic areas identified during the gatherings and forums included root causes/cycle of violence, racism and bias/structural violence, trajectory of violence, protective factors and nonviolence, geographic pattern change, violence prevention strategies, youth, family factors, community factors, school, police, gangs/street organizations, and media and public perceptions. Recommendations to support community engagement were grouped as role of research in reducing violence, role of community in violence research, relationships and respect, academic-community communication, financial considerations, training, practical considerations, research design, sharing results, communication about and use of data, and recommendations for funders.Conclusions: The violence research agenda will be used to inform community-engaged violence prevention research. The recommendations for community engagement provide a resource for researchers about topics to consider to meaningfully engage community members in future research.
Kinetics and seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies – a comparison of 3 different assays
Authors: Kahre Elisabeth , Galow Lukas , Unrath Manja , Haag Luise , Blankenburg Judith , Dalpke Alexander H. , Lück Christian , Berner Reinhard , Armann Jakob P.
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Comparing seroprevalence and antibody kinetics in three different commercially available assays for SARS-CoV-2. Methods: Serostatus of COVID-19 patients was analyzed 5 months and 10 months after their infection, using three different assays: Diasorin LIAISON®, Euroimmun®, Abbott Diagnostics® ARCHITECT. Results: Seropositivity at baseline differed significantly depending on the assay (Diasorin 81%, Euroimmun 83%, Abbott 59%). At follow-up antibody levels detected in the Diasorin assay were stable, while there was a significant loss in seropositivity in the Euroimmun and Abbott assays. Conclusion: There are significant differences in SARS-CoV-2 antibody kinetics based on the specific assay used.Trial registration number, date of registration DRKS00022549, 29.07.2020 “retrospectively registered”
Potato Landraces and Their Wild Relatives in 3 Micro-centers of Diversity in Ecuador: Farmers' Perception and Ecogeography
Authors: Monteros-Altamirano Álvaro Ricardo , Monteros-Altamirano A. , Yumisaca-Jiménez F. , Aucancela R. , Coronel J. , Corozo-Quiñonez L. , Cunguán K.
Published: May 2021

Ecuador is one of the centers of diversity for wild and cultivated potatoes. Three micro-centers of diversity were previously identified based on germplasm collecting passport data of potato landraces and their wild relatives. The objective of this study was to understand the potential hybridization dynamic of the genetic diversity present in situ in these micro-centers (provinces of Carchi, Chimborazo and Loja in Ecuador) by means of: 1. Reviewing the possibility of an eventual genetic cross within intercropped potato landraces through surveys to local producers; 2. Reviewing the possibility of potato landraces crossing with their wild relatives, also according to local producers; and 3. Map the actual geographic location of recent collections of potato landrace and wild potato relatives in the study areas. Information from farmers and eco-geographic data demonstrated that there is no potential crossing between wild and cultivated potato species. Probably the existing genetic variability in Ecuador has been accumulated since the historical movement of potato landraces by American ancestors from the center of origin in Peru and Bolivia and the continuum knowledge and seed sharing besides the conscious and unconscious selection of potato landraces by local farmers for centuries. Additionally, we discuss options to conserve both cultivated and wild potato species in Ecuador due to apparent current genetic erosion processes.
Predictive Value of Albumin-Bilirubin Grade For Intravenous Immunoglobulin Resistance In A Large Cohort Of Patients With Kawasaki Disease: A Prospective Study
Authors: Yan Yu , Qiao Lina , Shao Shuran , Zhang Nanjun , Wu Mei , Liu Lei , Zhou Kaiyu , Liu Xiaoliang , Wang Chuan
Published: May 2021

Background: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance, which defined that Kawasaki disease (KD) patients have recrudescence fever more than 36 hours after IVIG infusion, and its prediction is one of the primary clinical issues and study hotspots in KD. This study aimed to prospectively investigated the value of albumin-bilirubin grade (ALBI) in predicting IVIG resistance in KD, and assessed whether ALBI has more predictive value or accuracy than either ALB or TBil alone in predicting IVIG resistance.Methods: A total of 823 patients with KD were prospectively enrolled. The clinical and laboratory data were compared between IVIG-response group (n=708) and IVIG-resistance group (n=115). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the independent risk factors of IVIG resistance. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis was applied to assess the validity of ALBI, ALB, and TBil in predicting IVIG resistance. Results: ALBI was significantly higher in patients with IVIG resistance and was identified as an independent risk factor for IVIG resistance in KD. The parameter of ALBI ≥ –2.57 (AUC: 0.705, 95%CI: 0.672–0.736), ALB ≤ 33.0g/L (AUC: 0.659, 95%CI: 0.626–0.692), and TBil ≥16.0μmol/L (AUC: 0.626, 95%CI: 0.592–0.659), produced a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 0.617, 0.657, 0.226, 0.914, and 0.651; 0.374, 0.850, 0.289, 0.893, and 0.783; 0.269, 0.941, 0.425, 0.888, and 0.847, respectively.Conclusion: A higher ALBI was an independent risk factor for IVIG resistance. It yielded better predictive ability than ALB and TBil alone for initial IVIG resistance.
Urine transferrin as an early endothelial dysfunction marker in type 2 diabetic patients without nephropathy: a case control study.
Authors: Sánchez-Hidalgo José Juan , SUÁREZ-CUENCA Juan Antonio , Lozano-Nuevo José Juan , García-López Víctor Hugo , Leal-Gutiérrez María Graciela , León-Ángel Sein Antonio , Ramírez-Villa María Leslye , Rodea-Rubio Martha Elena , González-Hernández José Enrique , Canela-Mayoral José Antonio , Murillo-Heredia Eduardo , Vera-Gómez Eduardo , Hernández-Patricio Alejandro , Zamora-Alemán Carlos Ramiro , Domínguez-Pérez Gabriela Alexandra , Gutiérrez-Buendía Juan Ariel , Mondragón-Terán Paul
Published: May 2021

Background

Albumin, along with other proteins, is abnormally eliminated via the urine during early stages of diabetic nephropathy. Moreover, endothelial dysfunction (ED) accompanying early diabetic nephropathy may develop even before microalbuminuria is detectable. Transferrin has a molecular weight comparable to albumin, and transferrinuria and microalbuminuria in a 24-hour urine sample may comparably reflect early diabetic nephropathy. However, transferrin physiochemical properties may be related with ED, but these have not been elucidated yet. This case-control study was aimed to evaluate relation between ED and urinary transferrin concentration before early diabetic nephropathy is present.
Methods

Patients were enrolled from two study sites in Mexico City: Ticoman General Hospital to evaluate control patients; and Dr. Manuel Gonzalez Rivera Specialized Clinic for the Management of the Diabetic Patient for case patients. All patients provided written informed consent. The primary endpoint was the correlation between urinary transferrin concentration and endothelial dysfunction measured in type 2 diabetic patients without albuminuria. ED was evaluated by ultrasonographic validated measurements, which included carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and flow mediated dilation (FMD). A power calculation, to detect a statistical difference, with a p value of 0.05, mandated a sample of 60 patients. The patients were tested for serum biomarkers such as glycated hemoglobin, creatinine, cholesterol, triglycerides, and urinary dipstick for albuminuria and urinary tract infection; using inclusion, exclusion and elimination criteria as described.
Results

The group with type 2 diabetes was older and showed higher serum transferrin and lower urinary transferrin values. Likewise, the group with type 2 diabetes showed subclinical atherogenic risk characterized by lower FMD and higher CIMT and ABI values. Risk factors associated to endothelial dysfunction measured by CIMT were time from diagnosis of diabetes, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and male sex. Hba1c and time since diabetes diagnosis correlated both for risk associated to FMD and CIMT. CIMT was the only factor correlated with urinary transferrin values.
Conclusion

Urinary transferrin correlated to subclinical endothelial dysfunction measured by CIMT in type 2 diabetic patients without nephropathy and can be used to test for early nephropathy in patients without albuminuria.
2-D DOA Estimation Method Based on Coprime Array MIMO Radar
Authors: Zhang Fei , Zhang Zijing , Jin Aisuo , Ji Chuantang , Wang Yi
Published: May 2021

Aiming at the problem that traditional Direction of Arrival (DOA) estimation methods cannot handle multiple sources with high accuracy while increasing the degree of freedom, a new method of 2-D DOA estimation based on coprime array MIMO Radar (SA-MIMO-CA). Frist of all, in order to ensure the accuracy of multi-source estimation when the number of elements is finite, a new coprime array model based on MIMO (MIMO-CA) is proposed. The array model uses a special irregular array as the transmitting array and a uniform linear array as the receiving array. Besides, in order to reduce complexity and improve the accuracy of two-dimensional DOA estimation, a new two-dimensional DOA estimation method based on sparse array is proposed. This method uses the sparse array topology of virtual array elements to analyze a larger number of information sources, and combines the compressed sensing method to process the sparse array, and obtains a larger array aperture with a smaller number of array elements, and improves the resolution of the azimuth angle. This method improves the DOA estimation accuracy and reduces the complexity. Finally, experiments verify the effectiveness and reliability of the SA-MIMO-CA method in improving the degree of freedom of the array, reducing the complexity, and improving the accuracy of the DOA.
Theoretical Study on the Grafting Reaction of Maleimide Containing 2-Hydroxy-Benzophenone Onto Polyethylene
Authors: Zhang hui , Deng Chi , Du Xia , Shang Yan , Zhao Hong , Wang Xuan , Han Baozhong , Li Zesheng
Published: May 2021

A theoretical study on the multi-channel hydrogen addition of maleimide containing 2-hydroxy-benzophenone onto polyethylene in Ultra-Violet (UV) radiation cross-linking process was carried out using density functional theory (DFT) method at the B3LYP/6-311+G(d,p) level. The energetic information and the minimum energy path (MEP) are calculated of nine reaction channels. The electrophilic addition reactions at two positions in the target molecule (maleimide containing 2-hydroxy-benzophenone) were investigated, where are on the C atom of C=C groups and on the O atom of C=O groups. Frontier MOs and NBO charge population of the target molecule have been analyzed in detail. As a result, the reaction site of C in C=C group is more active than the site of O in C=O groups. The target molecule can be used as a multi-functional additive candidate. The predicted mechanism may provide a theoretical basis for the real application of XLPE high voltage insulation cables.
Non-circular Signal DOA Estimation based on Coprime Array MIMO Radar
Authors: Zhang Fei , Ji Chuantang , Zhang Zijing , Yin Dayu , Wang Yi
Published: May 2021

Aiming at the problems of low degree of freedom, small array aperture, phase ambiguity and other problems of traditional coprime array direction of arrival estimation methods, a non-circular signal DOA estimation method based on expanded coprime array MIMO radar is proposed. Firstly, this method combines the coprime array and the MIMO radar to form transmitter and receiver array. Secondly, the array is expanded using the non-circular signal characteristics to reconstruct the received signal matrix. Then the dimensionality reduction is performed. The two-dimensional spectral peak search is converted into an optimization problem, and the optimization of the two-dimensional MUSIC algorithm is reconstructed using constraints, and a cost function is constructed to solve the problem. In addition, using the power series of the noise eigenvalues to correct the noise subspace to further improve the accuracy of the algorithm. Finally, the problem of no phase ambiguity in the method in this article is derived. Simulation experiments show that the method in this article can effectively avoid phase ambiguity, greatly improve the degree of freedom, and expand the array aperture. Compared with the traditional MUSIC algorithm and the mutual prime array MUSIC algorithm, it has better resolution and DOA estimation accuracy.
A Non-conventional Approach to Understanding the Geographical Influence on the Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and IFR
Authors: KETIPEARACHCHI UDAYA
Published: May 2021

Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is not well understood and different models are needed (i.e. one model cannot answer it all) to understand and fight this disease. Here, we present two models based on indirect transmission of SARS-CoV-2 that explain the influence of ambient temperature and air pollution on outdoor and indoor behavior of SARS-CoV-2. These models discuss the temperature dependency of the lethality of SARS-CoV-2 and its spread during indoor and outdoor exposure. Furthermore, the temperature effect on the half-life of SARS-CoV-2 is discussed if the SARSCoV-2 is transmitted via particulate matter or surfaces. It is also important to understand the role of dew point instead of the humidity factor alone as the combined effect of temperature and humidity might play a major role in the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 .
(-)-Epicatechin Inhibits Cardiac Fibrosis via SIRT1/AKT/GSK3β Pathway
Authors: Guo Yuanyuan , Luo Yingchun , Wang Zeng , dong zengxiang , Li Yue
Published: May 2021

Background: (-)-Epicatechin (EPI) is an important substance involved in protective effects of flavanol-rich foods. Many studies indicate EPI has cardioprotective effect, but the effect of EPI in inhibition of cardiac fibrosis is unclear. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of EPI in preventing cardiac fibrosis and unveil the molecular mechanisms. Methods: Cardiac fibrosis model was established by transaortic constriction (TAC). The acutely isolated cardiac fibroblasts were induced to myofibroblasts with angiotensin II (AngII). Results: EPI markedly attenuated TAC-induced cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis in mice. In cultured CFs, EPI blocked AngII-induced myofibroblast transformation and collagen production. Furthermore, EPI conducted anti-fibrotic effects by activating the the SIRT1/AKT/GSK3β pathway. Conclusions: These findings will supply new agent and mechanism of action for treating cardiac fibrosis in the future.
Prognostic value of pre-irradiation FET PET in patients with not completely resectable IDH-wildtype glioma and minimal or absent contrast enhancement
Authors: Rosen Jurij , Stoffels Gabriele , Lohmann Philipp , Bauer Elena K , Werner Jan Michael , Wollring Michael , Rapp Marion , Felsberg Jörg , Kocher Martin , Fink Gereon , Langen Karl-Josef , Galldiks Norbert
Published: May 2021

Purpose: In glioma patients, complete resection of the contrast-enhancing portion is associated with improved survival, which, however, cannot be achieved in a considerable number of patients. Here, we evaluated the prognostic value of O-(2-[18F]-fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine (FET) PET in not completely resectable glioma patients with minimal or absent contrast enhancement before temozolomide chemoradiation.Methods: Dynamic FET PET scans were performed in 18 newly diagnosed patients with partially resected (n=8) or biopsied (n=10) IDH-wildtype astrocytic glioma before initiation of temozolomide chemoradiation. Static and dynamic FET PET parameters, as well as contrast-enhancing volumes on MRI, were calculated. Using receiver operating characteristic analyses, threshold values for these parameters were obtained. Subsequently, the prognostic values of FET PET parameters and contrast-enhancing volumes on MRI were evaluated using univariate Kaplan-Meier and multivariate Cox regression survival analyses for progression-free and overall survival (PFS, OS).Results: On MRI, eight patients had no contrast enhancement; the remaining patients had minimal contrast-enhancing volumes (range, 0.2-5.3 mL). Univariate analyses revealed that a smaller pre-irradiation FET PET tumor volume significantly influenced PFS (7.9 vs. 4.2 months; threshold, 14.8 mL; P=0.012) and OS (16.6 vs. 9.0 months; threshold, 23.8 mL; P=0.002). In contrast, mean tumor-to-brain ratios and time-to-peak values were only associated with a longer PFS (P=0.048 and P=0.045, respectively). Furthermore, the pre-irradiation FET PET tumor volume remained significant in multivariate analyses (P=0.043), indicating an independent predictor for OS.Conclusion: Our results suggest that pre-irradiation FET PET parameters have a prognostic impact in this subgroup of patients.