bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multimodal Management of Traumatic Faecal Incontinence Focused on Sphincteroplasty: Long-term Outcomes From a Single Center Case Series
Authors: Cerdán Carlos , Cerdán-Santacruz Débora , Milla-Collado Lucía , de León Antonio Ruiz , Miguel Javier Cerdán
Published: August 2021

Background: The management of patients with fecal incontinence and an external anal sphincter (EAS) defect remains controversial.Methods: We present a retrospective series of overlapping anal sphincteroplasties performed between 1985-2013 by a single surgeon supplemented by selective puborectalis plication and internal anal sphincter repair. Patients were clinically followed along with anorectal manometry, continence scoring (Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score - CCS) and patient satisfaction scales. Patients with a suboptimal outcome were managed with combinations of biofeedback therapy, (BFT) peripheral tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS), sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) or repeat sphincteroplasty.Results: There were 120 anterior sphincter repairs with 90 (75%) levatorplasties and 84 (70%) IAS repairs. Over a median follow-up of 120 months (range 60-173.7 months) there were significant improvements in the recorded CCIS values (90.8% with a preoperative CCIS > 15 vs. 2.5% postoperatively; P < 0.001). There were 42 patients who required ancillary treatment with 4 repeat sphincteroplasties, 35 patients undergoing biofeedback therapy, 10 patients treated with PTNS and 3 managed with SNS implants with an ultimate good functional outcome in 92.9% of cases. No difference was noted in ultimate functional outcome between those treated with sphincteroplasty alone compared with those who needed ancillary treatments (97.1% vs. 85.7%, respectively). Overall, 93.3% considered the outcome as either good or excellent.Conclusions: Long-term functional outcomes of an overlapping sphincteroplasty are good. If the initial outcome is suboptimal, response to ancillary treatments remains good and patients are not compromised by a first-up uncomplicated sphincter repair.
ZCCHC24 is a Prognostic-related Biomarker and Correlated with Immune Infiltrates in Gastric Cancer and Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Jiahuang , Zhang Qinhui , Li Wei , Shu Jianchang
Published: August 2021

Background: ZCCHC24 is one of alternative splicing factors which affect immune cell infiltration, but the mechanisms whereby it drives immune infiltration in cancer remain uncertain. Methods: ZCCHC24 expression was analyzed via the Oncomine database and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) site. We evaluated the influence of ZCCHC24 on clinical prognosis using Kaplan-Meier plotter, the PrognoScan database and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA). The correlations between ZCCHC24 and cancer immune infiltrates was investigated via TIMER. In addition, correlations between ZCCHC24 expression and gene marker sets of immune infiltrates were analyzed by TIMER and GEPIA.Results: ZCCHC24 significantly impacts the prognosis of diverse cancers via The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). elevated ZCCHC24 expression was significantly correlated with poor OS and progression-free survival (PFS) in gastric cancers (OS HR = 2.11, P = 6.3e-12; PFS HR = 2.03, P = 3.1e-11). Moreover, ZCCHC24 significantly impacts the prognosis of diverse cancers via The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Specifically, high ZCCHC24 expression was correlated with worse OS and PFS in Stage, T stage, N stage, M stage, Lauren classification and differentiation of gastric cancer patients. ZCCHC24 expression was positively correlated with infiltrating levels of CD4+ T，CD8+ T cells, Macrophages, Neutrophils and dendritic cells (DCs) in stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). ZCCHC24 expression showed strong correlations with diverse immune marker sets in STAD and LUSC.Conclusions: These findings suggest that ZCCHC24 is a key factor which governs immune cell recruitment to gastric cancer and lung squamous cell carcinoma, potentially playing a vital role in governing immune cell infiltration and thus representing a valuable prognostic biomarker in gastric cancer and lung squamous cell carcinoma patients.
COVID-19 Preventive Behaviors in Pre-hospital Emergency Personnel: Application of Protection Motivation Theory
Authors: Jeihooni Ali Khani , Esmaeilifar Zeinab , Badehian Ziad , Khaleghi Ali Asghar , ziapour arash , Yari Asiyeh
Published: August 2021

Background: Pre-hospital emergency personnel plays a critical role in providing communities with essential medical care during the corona pandemic. Emergency medical services (EMS) are at the forefront of the health care system, and they are the first treatment group associated with COVID-19 patients to transfer suspected and known COVID-19 patients to medical centers. This study aims to investigate the factors affecting COVID-19 preventive behaviors in pre-hospital emergency personnel in Fars province, Iran based on protection motivation theory.Methods: This cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted on 650 pre-hospital emergency personnel in Fars province in 2020. Data were collected by a questionnaire consisting of demographic information, protection motivation theory, and COVID-19 preventive behaviors.Results: 650 employees of Fars pre-hospital emergency and emergency bases participated in the study. The average age of participants in the study 45.14±10.37 years. There was a positive and significant correlation between preventive behaviors and constructs of the PMT model, including perceived susceptibility, severity, response efficacy, self-efficacy, response cost, and protection motivation. The response cost and protection motivation (behavioral intention) had the lowest and highest percentage of the mean from the maximum obtainable score among structures of the model, respectively. Perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, self-efficacy, and protection motivation (behavioral intention) are the strongest predictor of behavior. The variables predicted 61.3% of the variance of coronavirus preventive behaviors.Conclusion: The results of this study confirm the role of protection motivation theory in adopting preventive behavior of pre-hospital emergency personnel, it is suggested that interventional training be held with this theory, and facilitating protective behaviors as a principle in education should be considered.
Protocatechuic Acid Abrogates Oxidative Insults, Inflammation and Apoptosis in Liver and Kidney Associated With Monosodium Glutamate Intoxication in Rats
Authors: Kassab Rami B. , Theyab Abdulrahman , Al-Ghamdy Ali O. , Algahtani Mohammad , Mufti Ahmad H. , Alsharif Khalaf F. , Abdella Ehab M. , Habotta Ola A. , Omran Mohamed M. , Lokman Maha S. , Bauomy Amira A. , Albrakati Ashraf , Baty Roua S. , Hassan Khalid E. , Alshiekheid Maha A. , Moneim Ahmed E. Abdel , Masry Heba A. El
Published: August 2021

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a commonly used flavor enhancer, has been reported to induce hepatic and renal dysfunctions. In this study, the palliative role of protocatechuic acid (PCA) in MSG-administered rats was elucidated. Adult male rats were assigned to four groups, namely control, MSG (4 mg/kg), PCA (100 mg/kg), and the last group was co-administered MSG and PCA at aforementioned doses for seven days. Results showed that MSG augmented the hepatic (AST and ALT) and renal (urea and creatinine) functions markers as well as glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL levels. Moreover, marked increases in MDA levels accompanied by declines in GSH levels and notable decreases in the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR were observed in MSG-treated group. The MSG-mediated oxidative stress was further confirmed by down-regulation of Nfe2l2 gene expression levels in both tissues. In addition, MSG enhanced the hepatorenal inflammatory response as witnessed by increased inflammatory cytokines (IL-1b and TNF-α) and elevated NF-κB levels in both tissues. Further, significant increases in Bax (pro-apoptotic biomarker) levels together with decreases in Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic marker) levels were observed in MSG administration. Hepatic and renal histopathological screening supported the biochemical and molecular findings. On the contrary, co-treatment of rats with PCA resulted in remarkable enhancement of the antioxidant cellular capacity, suppression of inflammatory mediators and apoptosis. These effects are possibly endorsed for activation of Nrf-2 and suppression of NF-kB signaling pathways. Collectively, addition of PCA counteracted MSG-induced hepatic and renal injurious effects through modulation of oxidative, inflammatory and apoptotic alterations.
Knowledge and Readiness of Community Health Volunteers to Lead Sensitization of Communities on COVID-19 Vaccination in Kenya: A Crosssectional Study
Authors: Osur Joachim O. , Muinga Evelyne OF , Ireri Edward , Carter Jane , Kuria Shiphrah , Hussein Salim
Published: August 2021

BackgroundVaccination is anticipated to bring the COVID-19 pandemic to an ultimate end. Community health volunteers (CHVs) are the link between communities and the formal health system and are therefore a vital factor in successful vaccine rollout in Kenya. However, the ability of CHVs to lead community sensitization on COVID-19 vaccination was uncertain. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of CHVs on COVID-19 vaccination, and determine if their knowledge is adequate to lead sensitization of communities in the national COVID-19 vaccination programme.MethodsThis was a mixed methods study comprising a cross-sectional survey and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were collected from 413 CHVs in four counties of Kenya through telephone interviews; 12 key informants were also interviewed through telephone interviews. SPSS version 25.0 and R script programming were utilised to analyse quantitative data. Qualitative data were analyzed using MAXQDA software.ResultsOf 413 CHVs surveyed, 82.3% felt inadequately informed to engage with communities on COVID-19 vaccination. There was a significant difference in the level of knowledge between CHVs in urban compared to rural counties (P=0.0005). The level of knowledge was also higher among more educated CHVs compared to less educated CHVs (OR=3.04, 95% CI: 2.47-3.61; p < 0.001). Knowledge on COVID-19 vaccine was higher in CHVs who had previously received accredited training on COVID-19 (OR=1.86, 95% CI: 1.28-2.45; p < 0.001) and this had a significant influence on CHV’s willingness to be vaccinated. CHVs with higher levels of knowledge were more likely to express readiness to engage with communities on COVID-19 vaccination than those with lesser knowledge (P=0.0001). ConclusionCHVs in four counties of Kenya did not have adequate knowledge on COVID-19 vaccination which is a major constraint to their work of mobilising communities to accept COVID-19 vaccination.
Stability Analysis of Nonlinear Glue Flow Control System With Delay
Authors: Ding Yuting , Zheng Liyuan , Guo Jining
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we improve a new mathematical model associated with glue flow control system for glue applying of particleboard. Firstly, we study the existence and stability of the equilibria and the existence of fold, Hopf and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcations in above system. Next, the normal forms of Hopf bifurcation and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation are derived, and the classifications of local dynamics near above bifurcation critical values are analyzed. Then, numerical simulation results show that the flow control system associated with glue applying of particleborad exists stable equilibrium, stable periodic-1, periodic-2, and periodic-4 solutions, and chaotic attractor phenomenon from a sequence of period-doubling bifurcations. Finally, we compare the dynamical phenomena of flow control system with and without cubic terms, showing that cubic terms can effect the dynamical behaviors of flow control system.
Non-S-Wave Pairing Symmetries in Superconducting in and Sn Nanoparticles
Authors: Ma Ma-Hsuan , Batsaikhan Erdembayalag , Chen Huang-Nan , Chen Ting-Yang , Lee Chi-Hung , Li Wen-Hsien , Wu Chun-Ming , Wang Chin-Wei
Published: August 2021

We report on experimental evidence of non-s-wave pairing in In and Sn nanoparticle assemblies. Spontaneous magnetizations are observed, through extremely weak-field magnetization and neutron-diffraction measurements, to develop when the nanoparticles enter the superconducting state. The superconducting transition temperature TC shifts to a noticeably higher temperature when an external magnetic field or magnetic Ni nanoparticles are introduced into the vicinity of the superconducting In or Sn nanoparticles. There is a critical magnetic field and a critical Ni composition that must be reached before the magnetic environment will suppress the superconductivity. Development of spin-parallel superconducting pairs on the surfaces and spin-antiparallel superconducting pairs in the core of the nanoparticles is used to understand the observations.
Evaluation of Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity Levels Using Different Accelerometry Protocols in Children from the GENOBOX study
Authors: Llorente-Cantarero Francisco Jesus , Jurado-Castro Jose Manuel , Leis Rosaura , Vázquez-Cobela Rocío , González-Gil Esther M , Aguilera Concepción María , Bueno Gloria , Moreno Luis A. , Gil Angel , Gil-Campos Mercedes
Published: August 2021

Objectives. The present study aimed to examine the sedentary behavior (SB) and physical activity (PA) levels in children using six selected accelerometry protocols based on diverse cut-off points.Methods. Clinical examination, anthropometric measurements, and PA evaluation by accelerometry were assessed in 543 selected children (10±2.4 years old) from the Spanish GENOBOX study. The ActiLife data scoring program was used to determine daily min spent in SB, and light, moderate, vigorous and moderate-vigorous PA using six validated accelerometry protocols differing in their cutt-off points.Results. Very different estimations for SB and PA intensity levels were found in children, independently of the non-wear-time algorithm selected, and considering puberty stages, age and body mass index. The time spent in daily SB varied from 471 to 663.7 min, PA ranged from 141 to 301.6 min, and the moderate-vigorous PA was reported between 20.7 and 180.2 min.Conclusion. The choice of a particular accelerometry protocol considering these factors is important to evaluate SB or PA intensities to suit the characteristics of the sample researched. It seems necessary to establish future lines of research that include different analytical approaches to measure SB and PA by accelerometry based on standardized and validated methodology.
Backstepping Global and Structural Stabilization of DC/DC Boost Converter
Authors: MADNI Zineb , GUESMI kamel , BENALIA Atallah
Published: August 2021

This paper deals with the stabilization of DC/DC boost converter and the nonlinear phenomena elimination using a constrained Backstepping technique. Based on the converter averaged model, the pro- posed control approach is designed and the input to state stability concept is used to proof the system global stability. Furthermore, the structural stability is proven to show the eﬃciency of the proposed approach to suppress the nonlinear phenomena exhibited by the converter. The simulation results illustrate the diﬀerent regions of stability of the system and the bifurcation diagrams are given to show the eﬀectiveness of the proposed approach in terms of nonlinear phenomena suppression.
Changes in Smoking Habits in Pregnant Women During COVID-19 Pandemic. A Comparison of Two Cohorts
Authors: Llorca Javier , Lechosa-Muñiz Carolina , Vejo-Iandalia Veronica , Vilanova-Fernández Sonia , Dierssen-Sotos Trinidad , Paz-Zulueta Maria , Cabero-Perez Maria J
Published: August 2021

Background: Although smoking in pregnancy has well known deleterious effects, about 50% women who smoked out of the pregnancy continue to smoke while pregnant. The main is to study changes in smoking in pregnancy during covid-19 pandemic.Methods: We compare two cohorts of pregnant women: one recruited in 2018 (pre-pandemic cohort) and one recruited from March 2020 on (pandemic cohort).Results: The percentage of women who smoked decreased from 13% in the pre-pandemic cohort to 8% in the pandemic cohort (p<0.001). This step-down was similar in all age groups and both employed and unemployed/no active women. Among women in the pandemic cohort, those whose pregnancy began after March-2020 (when the pandemic was declared) reported 1% smoking prevalence, which is much lower than smoking prevalence in women whose pregnancy began before the pandemic was declared.Conclusion: Smoking was less frequent in pregnancies during the covid-19 pandemic and even less frequent in women whose pregnancy began after the pandemic was declared. The effect that lockdown, stay-at-home orders or healthier behaviour habits could have had on smoking in pregnancy would require further research.Trial registration: The study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Cantabria (reference: 2020.174).
Preventive practices towards Sexually Transmitted Infection and its determinants among young people in Ethiopia: a protocol for a systematic review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Anbesu Etsay Woldu , Aychiluhm Setognal Birara , Alemayehu Mussie
Published: August 2021

Background: Globally, about 178.5 million new cases of curable sexually transmitted infections occur among young people aged 15-24 years. There are fragmented and inconsistent findings on preventive practices of sexually transmitted infection. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of preventive practices of sexually transmitted infection and identify its determinants among young people in Ethiopia. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) was employed to develop the review protocol. Databases such as PubMed, CINAH, Google, and Google Scholar were used to search published and unpublished studies. Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument will be used to assess the quality of the study. Statistical heterogeneity will be checked using I2 statistics. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression will be done to identify the sources of heterogeneity. The statistical analysis will be done using STATA version-14 software. A random-effects model will be employed to estimate the pooled prevalence and identify determinants of preventive practices of sexually transmitted infections. Discussion: Young people have a high unmet need for sexual and reproductive health services and poor preventive practices toward sexually transmitted infection. Although there are studies on the sexually transmitted infection preventive practice, there is no study finding on the pooled prevalence of the preventive practices of sexually transmitted infection and its determinants among young people in Ethiopia. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis will help to develop appropriate interventions.
Development of Molecular Markers Linked To QTL/Genes Controlling ZN Efficiency
Authors: PINAR Hasan , Bulbul Cansu , Simsek Duran , Shams Mostafakamal , Mutlu Nedim , Ercisli Sezai
Published: August 2021

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a widespread problem in reducing the yield and quality of crop plants worldwide. It is important to utilize molecular markers linked to Zn efficiency to develop high Zn efficient cultivars in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). We constructed a genetic map using an F2 populations derived from C. annuum L. (Alata 21A) X C. frutescens L. (PI 281420) cross. The QTLs for Zn efficiency were mapped using F2:3 population. A genetic map with 929,6 cM in length and 12 linkage groups were obtained using 62 markers (31 SRAP, 19 SSR and 11 RAPD). The 41 linked QTLs related with nine (9) Zn efficiency characters were mapped on linkage groups. Results suggest that selecting plants for tolerance to Zn deficiency are expected to be rather responsive among segregating populations for breeding and developing Zn efficient genotypes in pepper. The molecular markers are expected to aid selection and expedite breeding peppers resistant to Zn deficiency in soils low for available Zn contents.
Prevalence of Electrocardiographic Abnormalities Among People Living With HIV/AIDS in Sub-saharan Africa: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Semulimi Andrew Weil M , Kyazze Andrew Peter , Mukisa John , Batte Charles , Bongomin Felix
Published: August 2021

IntroductionElectrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities are highly prevalent among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) contributing to the rising burden of cardiovascular diseases among this population. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) contributes more than two thirds to the global burden of HIV/AIDS. However, an accurate account of the prevalence of ECG abnormalities in SSA is unknown. This study aims to determine the prevalence of ECG abnormalities among PLWHA in Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods and analysisA systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted. Databases including EMBASE, MEDLINE, African Journal Online and The Cochrane Library (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Cochrane Methodology Register) will be used to search for studies published between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2020. Studies reporting any form of ECG abnormalities will be considered. Additionally, articles in both English and French will be reviewed. Articles will be screened and reviewed by two independent reviewers to determine their eligibility and any disagreement will be resolved through discussions with fourth and fifth reviewer. Eligibility of the studies will be assessed and judged based on the pre-set criteria. Retrieved studies will be assessed for validity using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale by two reviewers. Analysis of proportions will be done using STATA MP Version 16.0. A p<0.05 will be considered statistically significant.DiscussionIn the face of a growing burden of cardiovascular diseases among PLWHA, this study will provide an estimate of ECG abnormalities among PLWHA which will emphasize the importance of ECGs in screening for cardiovascular diseases in this population.Systematic review registration numberCRD42021243664.
Longitudinal increase of CSF soluble TREM2 is driven by early aggregation of Aβ42 and associates with slower amyloid deposition and clinical decline in autosomal-dominant Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Haass Christian , Morenas-Rodriguez Estrella , Li Yan , Nuscher Brigitte , Franzmeier Nicolai , Xiong Chengjie , Suárez-Calvet Marc , Fagan Anne , Schultz Stephanie , Gordon Brian , Benzinger Tammie , Hassenstab Jason , McDade Eric , Feederle Regina , Karch Celeste , Schlepckow Kai , Morris John , Kleinberger Gernot , Nellgård Bengt , Vöglein Jonathan , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Ewers Michael , Jucker Mathias , Levin Johannes , Bateman Randall
Published: July 2021

Therapeutic modulation of TREM2-dependent microglial function provides an additional strategy to slow progression of Alzheimer disease (AD). Although studies on animal models suggest that TREM2 is protective, the trigger of increased TREM2 expression during disease progression and its clinical and pathological consequences in AD remain unclear. We measured longitudinally soluble TREM2 (sTREM2) as a surrogate marker for protective TREM2-signalling in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from participants in the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN) observational study. In mutation carriers (MC), the longitudinal sTREM2 increase followed the earliest aggregation of Aβ42 captured by CSF-Aβ42 decrease, but not yet by Pittsburg compound-B Positron Emission Tomography (PiB-PET). Higher sTREM2 increase rates provided protection from Aβ-deposition, whereas lower rates enhanced p-tau increase associated with PiB-PET increase. Moreover, presymptomatic MC with high or low sTREM2 increase rates have opposite associations between CSF Aβ42 and PiB-PET longitudinal changes, suggesting that TREM2 modifies Aβ plaque deposition and compaction. Finally, higher sTREM2 increase rates protected from cortical shrinkage and cognitive decline. Our findings position the TREM2 response within the amyloid cascade right after the first pathological changes in Aβ42 aggregation, support ongoing efforts to develop TREM2 modulating therapies, and predict a very early window for therapeutic intervention.
Real-Time Slurry Characteristic Analysis During Ball Milling Using Vibration Data
Authors: Jeong Hyeondeok , Yu Jungwon , Lee Youngjae , Lee Sung-min , Ryu Sung-Soo , Kim Seiki
Published: August 2021

The characteristics of an internal slurry were analyzed during ball milling, which is commonly utilized in ceramic processing. We used a device with a capacity of 50 L because this is the size employed in industries, and built a circulation system to collect the slurry during the milling process. The properties of the slurry were characterized in terms of their particle size and viscosity, while vibration data were collected from the side of the ball mill drum in real time. A fast Fourier transform was performed on the vibration data, allowing the energy to be calculated and compared with the slurry characteristics. The vibration data in the 3–4 kHz range showed a strong negative correlation with the slurry viscosity. Our results confirm that the characteristics of the internal slurry can be monitored in real time using vibration data collected during ball milling.
Infection Age as a Predictor of Epidemiological Metrics for Malaria
Authors: Henry John M , Carter Austin , Smith David L
Published: August 2021

Background Accurate estimation of the burden of Plasmodium falciparum is essential for strategic planning for control and elimination. Due in part to the extreme heterogeneity in malaria exposure, immunity, other causes of disease, direct measurements of fever and disease attributable to malaria can be difficult. This can make a comparison of epidemiological metrics both within and between populations hard to interpret. An essential part of untangling this is an understanding of the complex time-course of malaria infections.Methods We reanalyzed malaria therapy infections in which individuals were intentionally infected with malaria parasites. In this analysis, we examined the age of an infection as a covariate describing aggregate patterns across all infections. We performed a series of piecewise linear and generalized linear regressions to highlight the infection age dependent patterns in both parasitemia and gametocytemia, and from parasitemia and gametocytemia to fever and transmission probabilities, respectively. Results The observed duration of untreated patent infection was 130 days. As infections progressed, the fraction of infections subpatent by microscopy increased steadily. The time-averaged malaria infections had three distinct phases in parasitemia: a growth phase for the first 6 days of patency, a rapid decline from day 6 to day 18, and a slowly declining chronic phase for the remaining duration of the infection. During the growth phase, parasite densities increased sharply to a peak. Densities sharply decline for a short period of time after the peak. During the chronic phase, infections declined steadily as infections age. Gametocytemia was strongly correlated with lagged asexual parasitemia. Fever rates and transmission efficiency were strongly correlated with parasitemia and gametocytemia. The comparison between raw data and prediction from the age of infection has good qualitative agreement across all quantities of interest for predicting averaged effects. Conclusion We established age of infection as a potentially useful covariate for malaria epidemiology. Infection age can be estimated given a history of exposure; accounting for exposure history may potentially provide a new way to estimate malaria-attributable fever rates, transmission efficiency, patent fraction, and more in immunologically naïve individuals such as children and people in low-transmission regions. Understanding how immune responses modify these statistical relationships is key for being able to apply these results more broadly.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in a Real-World Research for Predicting the Risk of Liver Metastasis in T1 Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Han Tenghui , Zhu Jun , Xu Dong , Chen Rujie , Wang Shuai , Chen Xiaoping , Zheng Jianyong , Xu Chunsheng
Published: August 2021

Background: The liver is the most common metastatic site of colorectal cancer (CRC) and liver metastasis (LM) determines subsequent treatment as well as prognosis of patients, especially in T1 patients. T1 CRC patients with LM are recommended to adopt surgery and systematic treatments rather than endoscopic therapy alone. However, there is still no effective model to predict the risk of LM in T1 CRC patients and we aim to develop a novel and accurate predictive model.Methods: We integrated two independent CRC cohorts from Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results database (SEER) and Xijing hospital. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning methods were adopted to establish the predictive model.Results: A total of 16785 and 326 T1 CRC patients from SEER database and our hospital were incorporated respectively in the study. We found that age, gender, married status, primary site, tumor size, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), tumor type, grade, N stage and perineural invasion were significant independent factors for predicting the presence of LM, among which tumor size is the most important. The stacking bagging model showed the best predictive capability, achieving a sensitivity of 0.8452, a specificity of 0.9566, and an area under the curve of 0.9631. In addition, the stacking model had an excellent discriminative ability and accurately screened out eight LM cases from 326 T1 patients in the outer validation cohort. Ultimately, we authenticated the prognostic value of the stacking model, which is consistent with the predictive result of LM.Conclusion: We successfully established an innovative and convenient AI model for predicting LM in T1 CRC patients, which was further verified in our dataset.
Comparison of Two Predictive Models of Sepsis in Critically Ill Patients Based on the Combined use of Inflammatory Markers
Authors: Li Xiaoming , Liu Chao , Wang Xiaoli , Mao Zhi , Yi Hongyu , Zhou Feihu
Published: August 2021

Background: Sepsis is considered to be a systemic inflammatory response due to infection, resulting in organ dysfunction. Timely targeted interventions can reduce mortality and improve prognosis. Therefore, it is important to identify potential sepsis in time. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the process of sepsis. We combined inflammatory markers to develop and validate a nomogram model and a simple risk scoring model for predicting sepsis in critically ill patients. Furthermore, comparing the prediction performance of the two models.Methods: The medical records of adult patients admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU) from August 2017 to December 2020 were analyzed. The finally included patients were randomly divided into training cohort (70%) and validation cohort (30%). A nomogram model for sepsis was developed through multivariate logistic regression analysis in the training cohort. The continuous variables included in nomogram model were transformed into dichotomous variables. Then a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed based on these dichotomous variables and the odds ratio (OR) for each variable was used to construct a simple risk scoring model for predicting sepsis. The receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were constructed and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to evaluate the discrimination performance of the two models. Results: According to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, 2074 patients were included in study. Finally, white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were included in our models. The AUC of the nomogram model was 0.854 (95%CI: 0.835-0.872). The AUC of the simple risk scoring model was 0.842 (95%CI: 0.822-0.861). When the cut-off value was 7.5 points, the sensitivity was 77.03% and the specificity was 75.75%. The prediction performance of the two models on sepsis is comparable (p=0.1298) and better than that of Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores (AUC=0.759).Conclusions: This study combining five commonly available inflammatory markers (WBC, CRP, IL-6, PCT and NLR) developed a nomogram model and a simple risk scoring model to predict sepsis in critically ill patients. Although the prediction performance of the two models is comparable, the simple risk scoring model may be simpler and more practical for clinicians to identify potential sepsis in critically ill patients at an early stage and make treatment strategies.
Comprehensive histological imaging of native microbiota in human glioma
Authors: Zhao Jiajia , He Dian , Lai Hei Ming , Xu Yingying , Luo Yunhao , Li Ting , Liang Jianhao , Yang Xiaodu , Guo Linlang , Ke Yiquan , Zhou Hongwei , Wu Wu-Tian , Guo Hongbo , Sun Haitao
Published: July 2021

Mounting evidence suggests that distinct microbial communities reside in tumors and play important roles in tumor physiology. Recently, Nejman et al. profiled the composition and localization of intratumoral bacteria using 16S DNA sequencing and histological visualization methods across seven tumor types, including human glioblastoma. However, considering potential contamination in their sample origins and processing, the results based on traditional histological methods need to be validated. Here, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) intratumoral microbiota visualization and quantification protocol to observe microbiota in intact tumor tissues on the premise of avoiding possible contamination in the surface of tissues, based on tissue clearing, immunofluorescent labeling, microscopy imaging, and image processing. For the first time, we have achieved 3D quantitative imaging of bacterial LPS fluorescent signals deep in gliomas in a contamination-free manner, which was founded mostly localized near nuclear membranes or in the intercellular space. Through an automated statistical algorithm, reliable signals can be distinguished for further analysis of their sizes, distribution, and fluorescence intensities. Combining two-dimensional images from multiple thin-section histological methods, including immunochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization, we provide a comprehensive histological investigation of the morphology and distribution of these signals on human glioma samples. We expect that this multi-evidence chain will provide supporting proof for the presence of intratumoral bacteria in human glioma and that the integrated pipeline can be applied to investigate the native bacteria within diverse tumors and contribute to the interpretation of their direct roles in the tumor microenvironment.
Public Adherence to Preventive Practices during the Third Wave of the COVID-19 in Afghanistan
Authors: Nemat Arash , Sediqi Mohammad Faiq , Elhadi Yasir Ahmad Mohammed , Essar Mohammad Yasir , Raufi Nahid , Asady Abdullah
Published: August 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic emerged from Wuhan, China and has spread across the world and raised public health concerns. To curb the spread of the disease, the government has imposed prevention measures. The objective of this study was to examine the compliance of people with infection prevention practices during the third wave of the pandemic to provide an updated insight into the situation and help policy makers in designing effective measures.
Methods

This was an online survey of the general population in Afghanistan from April, 2021 to May, 2021. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the respondents. The target sample size was found to be around 1,094 respondents. Data collection was guided through self-administered questionnaire developed by the researchers according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
Results

From 1,094 respondents, 78% were male. Majority of the respondents were aged ≤ 30 years and had an undergraduate education. Nearly, 1 in 3 participants were healthcare workers and 70% were living in households with 5 or more family members. Overall, 70% of the respondents reported good preventive practices. No significant association found between male and female participants with regard to preventive practices against the COVID-19. The frequency of good preventive practices was significantly higher in participants more than 30 years old (p = 0.035), people with a post-graduate education (p = 0.025), healthcare workers (p = 0.002), and households with less than five family members (p = 0.002).
Conclusion

Generally, the public in Afghanistan are following infection prevention rules. However, there are certain areas which require further improvement such as observing social distance and avoid shaking hands when meeting others. Negligence of these prevention practices can lead to the increase of infection transmission among people. Public awareness should be continued to keep the people supportive of the government policies. Social media, television advertisements, and similar platforms may be used for this purpose.
Analysis of discordance between AMH and AFC in IVF patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Yannan , Gu Xiaoling , Guan Xi , Yu Minyan , Zhong Shuping , Yang Panpan , Wang Xia , Wang Di
Published: August 2021

Background

Both anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) predict ovarian reserve independently and have been shown to correlate well. However, it is quite common to encounter discordance between the two clinical indices. This objective of this study is to speculate which condition is favorable to patients and to decide what best to be done in cases of such discordance.
Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed the medical records of 714 women undergoing the first IVF cycle at the Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu between January 2017 and December 2020. All patients had their essential characteristics, baseline FSH, Estradiol, PRL, LH, Testosterone, CA125, AMH, and AFC recorded. Patients were classified into three groups according to whether their AMH and AFC values were in the lower quartile, upper quartile, or in between, namely Group A (Concordance, concordant in AMH and AFC), Group B (HTP, AMH concentration higher than predicted according to AFC) and Group C (LTP, AMH concentration lower than predicted according to AFC). SPSS 25.0 software package (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) was used for statistical analysis.
Results

The entire study population has a good concordance between AMH and AFC. 240 women (33.61%) had discordant AMH and AFC values, and the proportion in Group B(HTP) and Group C(LTP) seemed similar (16.67% VS 16.94%). The three cohorts had similar age, infertile duration, FSH, Estradiol, PRL, LH, Testosterone, and CA125 levels. BMI progressively increased from Group B to Group A and to Group C. The ratio of patients, who had completely mature oocytes (COM), rapidly decreased from Group C to Group A and to Group B. Although no significant difference in CMO rate was observed among Group A, B, and C when stratified according to BMI, CMO rate was the highest (72.31%) when BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 in all BMI categories.
Conclusions

Our analysis demonstrated a high frequency of clinical discordance between AMH and AFC in women undergoing IVF therapeutic regime. Patients’ BMI and completely mature oocytes ratio are significantly different among distinct grouping based on their AMH and AFC partition.
Integrated multiple transcriptomes in oviductal tissue across the porcine oestrous cycle reveal functional roles in oocyte maturation and transport
Authors: Jang Min-Jae , Lim Chiwoong , Lim Byeonghwi , Kim Jun-Mo
Published: August 2021

Background
Understanding the complex changes in the swine female reproductive system is important for solving issues related to reproductive failure as well as the litter size. The oviduct is the site of fertilization, from where the fertilized egg moves to the uterus for implantation. Hence, elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of the natural oestrous cycle in the oviduct under non-fertilization conditions can improve our understanding of their roles in the reproductive system.
Results
In this study, whole transcriptome RNA sequencing of oviduct tissue samples was performed on Days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18 across the entire oestrous cycle to screen for differentially expressed genes (DEGs). We identified 7,623 DEGs across all the time points relative to Day 0. The DEGs were distinctly classifiable into three major clusters according to their expression patterns. Clusters 1 and 2 (1,222 and 1,146 genes, respectively) included genes involved in overall physiological changes observed through the oestrous cycle. Cluster 1 included genes were mainly involved in PI3K-Akt signalling and steroid hormone biosynthesis pathways, while Cluster 2 genes were involved in extracellular matrix–receptor interaction and protein digestion pathways. The expression levels of Cluster 3 genes were specifically downregulated in the luteal phase. We constructed a network with 1,000 Cluster 3 genes. KEGG pathway enrichment analyses revealed that the DEGs in Cluster 3 were strongly associated with cell cycle, calcium signalling, and oocyte meiosis. According to gene set enrichment analysis, genes associated with calcium signalling pathways and oocyte meiosis were also significantly downregulated in the luteal phase.
Conclusions
In this study, we identified that the expression of genes in the oviduct during the oestrous cycle affects oocyte transport and fertilization, which are the key functions of the oviduct. Current study provides a basis for successful breeding in the pig industry and uncovers an overall mechanism change for the pig oviduct in the oestrous cycle.
Emergency Available Drugs in Markets to Treat COVID-19
Authors: Hassan Amir , Hussain Abrar
Published: August 2021

Our current study is focused on emergency available drug in market to treat COVID-19 a viral infection that produces pneumonia and respiratory disorder. By pharmacology knowledge base treating viral-respiratory infection and immune inflammation, which posses’ direct effect against corona virus (COVID-19) the different antibiotics were evaluated from market on COVID-19 symptoms which includes Provas 100ml, Injections: Azithma 500mg, Oxidil 1gm, Gen-M 180mg and Bejectal. The Pladex 100ml, Infusion R/L 500ml, Tablet Panadol Extra, Syrup Pelton – V and Capsule Vibramycin in laboratory CatA21 (LRHP1) and CatB20 (AMCMDN2) for 1 to 3 days treatment and the Patients ages range from 37-56 and their recovering ratio calculated from the laboratory test by immune system and physical health comparison which were recorded as 95% with positive rate with a good health.
Root-TRAPR: a modular plant growth device to visualize root development and monitor growth parameters, as applied to an elicitor response of Cannabis sativa
Authors: Suwanchaikasem Pipob , Walker Robert , Idnurm Alexander , Selby-Pham Jamie , Boughton Berin A.
Published: August 2021

Background
Plant growth devices, for example rhizoponics, rhizoboxes, and ecosystem fabrication (EcoFAB) have been developed to facilitate studies of plant root morphology and plant-microbe interactions in controlled laboratory settings. However, several of these designs are suitable only for studying small model plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana and Brachypodium distachyon, and therefore require modification to be extended to larger plant species like crop plants. In addition, specific tools and technical skills required for fabricating these devices may not be available to researchers. Hence, this study aimed to establish an alternative protocol to generate a larger, modular and reusable plant growth device based on differently available resources.
Results
Root-TRAPR (Root-Transparent, Reusable, Affordable three-dimensional Printed Rhizo-hydroponic) system was successfully developed. It consists of two main parts, an internal root growth chamber and external structural frame. The internal root growth chamber is comprised of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) gasket, microscope slide and acrylic sheet while the external frame is printed from a three-dimensional (3D) printer and secured with nylon screws. To test the efficiency and applicability of the system, industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa) was grown with or without exposure to chitosan, a well-known plant elicitor used for stimulating plant defense. Plant root morphology was clearly detected in the system and plant tissues were easily collected and processed to examine plant biological responses. Upon chitosan treatment, chitinase and peroxidase activities increased in root tissues (1.7- and 2.3-fold, respectively) and exudates (7.2- and 21.6-fold, respectively). Phytohormones related to plant growth and defense response were higher in root tissues as compared to the shoots. Additionally, within two weeks of observation, hemp plants exhibited dwarf growth in Root-TRAPR system, easing plant handling and allowing increased replication under limited growing space.
Conclusion
The Root-TRAPR system facilitates exploration of root morphology and root exudate of C. sativa under controlled conditions and at a smaller scale. The device is easy to fabricate and applicable for investigating plant responses toward elicitor challenge. This fabrication protocol is modifiable to suit other plants and can be adapted to study plant physiology in other biological contexts, such as plant responses against biotic and abiotic stresses.
Determining the applicability of the RSNA radiology lexicon (RadLex) in high-grade glioma MRI reporting – a preliminary study on 20 consecutive cases with newly diagnosed glioblastoma
Authors: Huckhagel Torge , Stadelmann Christine , Abboud Tammam , Riedel Christian
Published: August 2021

Purpose
The implementation of a collective terminology in radiological reporting such as the RSNA radiological lexicon (RadLex) yields many benefits including unambiguous communication of findings, improved education, and fostering data mining for research purposes. While some fields in general radiology have already been evaluated so far, this is the first exploratory approach to assess the applicability of the RadLex terminology for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) MRI reporting.
Methods
Preoperative brain MRI reports of 20 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed GBM (mean age 68.4 ± 10.8 years; 12 males) between January and October 2010 were retrospectively identified. All terms related to the tumor as well as their frequencies of mention were extracted from the MRI reports by two independent neuroradiologists. Every item was subsequently analyzed with respect to an equivalent RadLex representation and classified into one of four groups as follows: 1. verbatim RadLex entity, 2. synonymous/multiple equivalent(s), 3. combination of RadLex concepts, or 4. no RadLex equivalent. Additionally, verbatim entities were categorized using the hierarchical RadLex Tree Browser.
Results
A total of 160 radiological terms were gathered. 123/160 (76.9%) items showed literal RadLex equivalents, 9/160 (5.6%) items had synonymous (non-verbatim) or multiple counterparts, 21/160 (13.1%) items were represented by means of a combination of concepts, and 7/160 (4.4%) entities could not eventually be transferred adequately into the RadLex ontology.
Conclusions
Our results suggest a sufficient term coverage of the RadLex terminology for GBM MRI reporting. If applied extensively, it may improve communication of radiological findings and facilitate data mining for large-scale research purposes.