bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pedigree Reconstruction and Spatial Analysis for Genetic Testing and Selection In A Larix Kaempferi (Lamb.) Carrière Plantation
Authors: Lee Kyungmi , Kim In-Sik , Kang Kyu-Suk
Published: September 2021

Background: Larix kaempferi is one of the major timber species in Northeast Asia. Demand for the reforestation of the species is rising in South Korea due to an increase in large timber production and utilization. However, progeny trials for the species have not been explored, making it challenging to foster advanced generations of tree improvement. In the present study, genetic testing and selection for diameter growth were conducted using pedigree reconstruction and phenotypic spatial distribution analysis in a plantation of L. kaempferi. The aim of the present study was to select the superior larch individuals using the pedigree reconstruction and phenotypic spatial distribution to substitute progeny trials. The plantation of seed orchard crops was established in 1990 and one-hundred and eighty-eight trees were selected as the study material. Genetic variation was investigated first to validate its adequacy as breeding material. Genetic testing was carried out using a model considering pedigree information and spatial autoregression of the phenotypes. The major environmental effects on growth were assessed to understand the site characteristics where the breeding materials were located.Results: The expected heterozygosity of the mother trees and offspring were 0.672 and 0.681 presenting the corresponding level of genetic variation between two groups. The pedigree reconstruction using maternity analysis assigned one to six progenies to ninety-two candidate mothers. The accuracy of genetic testing was exceedingly increased with the animal model considering AR1⊗AR1 structure compared to the animal model only. The estimated genetic variance of the former was 9.086 whereas that of the latter was 4.9E-5. The predicted breeding values of the offspring were ranged from -5.937 to 5.655 and the estimated heritability of diameter growth was 0.344. Shifts in the effects of the factors were detected using geographically weighted regression analysis, which provided information on the post-sectioning of the plantation. Conclusions: The genetic testing approach based on pedigree reconstruction and phenotypic spatial distribution analysis was considered a useful analytical scheme that could replace or supplement progeny trials. Subdivision of the plantation as blocks of the progeny testing was accomplished a posteriori based on the changes of the environmental effects.
Mechanisms of Motor Symptom Improvement by Long-Term Tai Chi Training in Parkinson's Disease Patients
Authors: Li Gen , Huang Pei , Cui Shi-Shuang , Tan Yu-Yan , He Ya-Chao , Shen Xin , Jiang Qin-Ying , Huang Ping , He Gui-Ying , Li Bin-Yin , Li Yu-Xin , Xu Jin , Wang Zheng , Chen Sheng-Di
Published: September 2021

Background
Tai Chi has been shown to improve motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD), but its long-term effects was not clear and the related mechanism was not elucidated. Therefore, we investigated the mechanism of long-term Tai Chi training on improving motor symptoms in PD.
Methods
95 early-stage PD patients were enrolled and randomly divided into Tai Chi (N = 32), brisk walking (N = 31) and no-exercise group (N = 32). All subjects were assessed at baseline, 6 months and 12 months after one-year intervention. Motor symptoms were evaluated by Berg balance scale (BBS), Unified PD rating scale (UPDRS), Timed Up and Go test (TUG) and 3D gait analysis. Functional MRI, plasma cytokine and metabolomics, blood Huntingtin interaction protein 2 (HIP2) mRNA levels were analyzed to investigate the mechanisms of Tai Chi training at macro and molecular level. The longitudinal effects of self-changes were calculated using repeated measures ANOVA. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) was used to assess the association of longitudinal data of rating scales. Switch rates were used into the fMRI analysis. False discovery rate (FDR) correction was used to perform multiple correction.
Results
Tai Chi group had better performance in BBS, UPDRS, TUG and step width. Besides, Tai Chi had more advantages in improving BBS, step width than brisk walking. Improved BBS was correlated with enhanced visual network function and downregulation of IL-1β. Improvements in UPDRS were associated with enhanced default mode network function, decreased L-malic acid and 3-phosphoglyceric acid, increased adenosine and HIP2 mRNA levels. In addition, arginine biosynthesis, urea cycle, TCA cycle and beta oxidation of very long chain fatty acids were also improved by Tai Chi.
Conclusions
Long-term Tai Chi training improved motor function, especially gait and balance, in PD. Enhanced brain network function, reduced inflammation, improved amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism and neurotransmitters metabolism, decreased vulnerability to dopaminergic degeneration might be the mechanisms of Tai Chi effects.
Trial registration:
This study is registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration number: ChiCTR-OPC-16008074; Registration date: March 8, 2016).
Denatonium Benzoate Exposure Promotes IgE-Mediated Mast Cell Degranulation and Allergy By Upregulating FcεRIα Expression
Authors: Xu Huaping , Shi Xiaoyun , Xie Mengting , Xiao Shiyu , Li Xin , Zou Jiexin , Liu Wenfeng , Shao Huming , Zhang Xiaoyan , Chen Hongbing , Shi Linbo
Published: September 2021

Background: Denatonium benzoate (DB), one of the bitterest compounds known to man, is currently added to a wide range of products and is also used for alcohol denaturation. Some reports demonstrated that asthmatic symptoms are associated with DB exposure but the possible links between DB and IgE-mediated allergy susceptibility have not been examined to date. We investigated the effects of DB on IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation in vitro and in the ovalbumin (OVA)-induced mouse model of allergy.Methods: DB treatments were given to RBL-2H3 IgE-sensitized rat mast cell/basophil cells and KU812 human basophilic cells together with OVA-induced allergic BALB/c mice. Allergic mediator release, Ca2+ influx and OVA-specific IgE anaphylactic shock symptoms were measured along with the cell-surface expression of the α-subunit of high-affinity IgE receptor FcεRI on mast cells.Results: DB increases β-hexosaminidase (β-hex) release and Ca2+ mobilization in IgE-mediated activated RBL-2H3 and KU812 cells, and enhanced the cell-surface expression of FcεRIα. DB also promoted the severity of OVA-induced anaphylactic and diarrheic symptoms which was accompanied by mucus thickness in jejunum and the levels of β-hex, histamine and OVA-specific IgE in allergy mice, as well as the levels of FcεRIα mRNA and the FcεRIα proteinin isolated mucosal mast cells. Conclusions: DB treatments can promote the IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation in vitro and OVA-induced allergic susceptibility in mice by upregulating mast-cell-surface FcεR1α expression, providing evidence for DB exposure in promoting allergy susceptibility.
Predictive Factors of Therapeutic Response According to Craniofacial Skeletal Biotype in Patients with Sleep Apnoea Syndrome using Mandibular Advancement Devices: A Pilot Study
Authors: Navarro Rafael Ecija , Karadede Berşan , Ünal Beyza Karadede , Salvador Domingo Martin
Published: September 2021

Background: In the scientific literature, there is no consistency of results regarding the effectiveness of mandibular advancement devices (MADs) for sleep apnoea treatment. We have considered facial growth as an important predictor of treatment. In this study we analysed that how facial biotype can influence the therapeutic effect of MADs according to polysomnographic records in SAHS patients.Methods: The study enrolled 46 patients with mild to moderate SAHS diagnosed by a polysomnographic test. Using cephalometry, we classified all the patients according their facial biotype (mesofacial, brachyfacial or dolichofacial). Shapiro-Wilk test was used to choose the parametric or non-parametric tests. The quantitative variables were described with the arithmetic mean with its standard deviation or the median with its interquartile range. The hypothesis tests used were Pearson’s chi-squared test, paired sample Student's t test, the Wilcoxon test, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: The respiratory disturbance index (RDI) results were: brachyfacial patients had a reduction to 15 events/hour (p < 0.001), the mesofacial patients had a reduction to 14 events/hour (p < 0.001) and the dolichofacial patients did not show a significant reduction in the RDI. The oxygen desaturation index (ODI) results were as follows: brachyfacial patients had a reduction in ODI episodes to 45 episodes/hour (p = 0.001), mesofacial patients had a reduction to 18 episodes/hour (p = 0.001). The dolichofacial patients did not show a reduction in this index. As far as the number of arousals, in the brachyfacial group, the number of awakenings with MAD therapy was reduced to 23 events/hour (p = 0.003), while in the mesofacial group, it was reduced to 37 episodes/hour (p = 0.012). The same behaviour was observed in the dolichofacial group, did not have a reduction in the number of awakenings during sleep after MAD therapy.Conclusions: The facial biotype influences the effectiveness of MAD therapy and is considered a good predictive factor. Dolichofacial patients failed to obtain a significant result in the polysomnographic records using a MAD for sleep apnoea treatment.
Social Relations and Contact With General Practitioner in a Middle-aged Danish Population: A Prospective Register- and Survey-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Mikkelsen Anne Sophie Bech , Lund Rikke , Siersma Volkert , Jørgensen Terese Sara Høj , Christensen Ulla , Kristiansen Maria
Published: September 2021

Background: Findings about the relationship between individuals’ social relations and general practitioner (GP) contact are ambiguous as to whether weak social relations are associated with an increased or decreased consultation pattern. Furthermore, social relations may affect GP contact differently for men compared to women, between socioeconomic groups and according to perceived need. The overall aim of the study is to examine the association between functional aspects of social relations, perceived emotional and instrumental social support, the tendency to consult a GP and the frequency of GP contact. Methods: The study comprised 6911 individuals aged 49–61 at baseline from the Copenhagen Aging and Midlife Biobank (CAMB). We conducted a two-part regression to explore the association between perceived emotional and instrumental social support and GP contact (tendency and frequency), controlling for age, sex, occupational social class, cohabitation status and number of morbidities. Conclusions: Results show no overall effect of the perceived social support aspects of social relations on GP contact. Trial registration: The study has been registered and approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency and the local ethical committee (approval No.H-A-2008-126 and No. 2013-41-1814).
A MiRNA Target Prediction Model based on Distributed Representation Learning and Deep Learning
Authors: Sun Yuzhuo , Xiong Fei , Sun Yongke , Zhao Youjie , Cao Yong
Published: September 2021

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a kind of non-coding RNA, which plays an essential role in gene regulation by binding to messenger RNAs(mRNAs). Accurate and rapid identification of miRNA target genes is helpful to reveal the mechanism of transcriptome regulation, which is of great significance for the study of cancer and other diseases. Many bioinformatics methods have been proposed to solve this problem, but the previous research did not further study the encoding of the base sequence. Results: In this study, we developed a novel method combining word embedding and deep learning for human miRNA targets at the site level prediction, which is inspired by the similarity between natural language and biological sequences. First, the wor2vec model was used to mine the distribution representation of miRNAs and mRNAs. Then, the data features are fully extracted automatically from temporal and spatial via the stacked Bidirectional Long short-term memory(BiLSTM) network. We compare the effects of different embedding methods on model accuracy in different deep learning models, and the results prove that using word2vec can improve the accuracy of deep learning models. In addition, we performed visual analysis on the distributed represented sequences and found hidden similarity relationships between bases. Finally, compared with different advanced methods and data sets, the results show that our proposed method has gotten better performance in multiple evaluation aspects. Conclusions: We present a novel method for predicting miRNA target sites consisting of word2vec and the BiLSTM model and demonstrate that this method can realize automatic feature extraction and has higher accuracy. Furthermore, we process miRNA and mRNA as two languages for the first time and explore their biological significance through visual analysis.
Rapidly Evolving Deep Dissecting Hematoma With Sudden Onset, Developed One Month After A Minimal Trauma.
Authors: Hamdan Rémy , Zwetyenga Narcisse , Macheboeuf Yvan , Ray Patrick
Published: September 2021

Background: Deep dissecting hematoma is a rapidly extending blood collection that splits the hypodermis from muscle fascia, constituting a medical surgical emergency. The natural history of this condition includes trauma (even minor physical injury) shortly before onset of the lesion, occurring in a patient with advanced dermatoporosis. Case presentation: We report the admission of a 70-year-old woman to the emergency department of our hospital for the onset of a deep dissecting hematoma one month after a negligible trauma in the right leg, complicating secondary iatrogenic dermatoporosis. Bedside ultrasound examination was used to eliminate differential or additional diagnoses and to assess the main features of the hematoma (dimensions, existence of blood supply). Surgical debridement and hematoma drainage were performed due to rapid horizontal extension of the hematoma and unresolved pain, with the operative report confirming the diagnosis. Conclusion: This observation emphasises that in patients with severe dermatoporosis, several weeks can elapse between a minor impact and the sudden development of a limb-threatening deep dissecting hematoma.
Clinical Features, Echocardiographic Findings, Management and Outcome in a Young Male Patient with Atrial Myxoma: A Rare Primary Cardiac Tumor
Authors: Mohamud Mohamed Farah Yusuf , Ahmed Said Abdirahman , Mohamud Mohamed Abdullahi
Published: September 2021

Primary cardiac tumors in pediatric are rare and mostly benign. Atrial Myxoma is the most common primary tumor of the heart, which is usually involved in the left atrium. Surgical treatment is recommended when the patients develop symptoms or hemodynamically is impaired. Cardiac Myxoma can cause left atrial obstruction and systemic embolization. So early diagnosis with surgical intervention is the definitive management of the tumor and should not be delayed. Here we present a case of a 23-year old male who admitted to the emergency department with syncope and dyspnea for 1day ago. The tumor was removed surgically; pathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of Myxoma.
Digging for the Discovery of SARS-CoV-2 nsp12 Inhibitors: A Pharmacophore-Based and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study
Authors: Askari Fatemeh Sana , Ebrahimi Mohsen , Parhiz Jabbar , Hassanpour Mina , Mohebbi Alireza , Mirshafiey Abbas
Published: September 2021

Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a grave global threat causing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The therapeutics are urgently needed to cure patients severely infected with COVID-19. The aim of the study was to investigate for potential candidates of nsp12 inhibitors by searching for druggable cavity pockets within the viral protein and drug discovery.Methods: The crystallographic structure of SARS-CoV-2 nsp12 was searched for strong druggable cavity pockets and pharmacophore features by the CavityPlus server. The features were selected for high-throughput screening (HTS) of a chemical library of ZINC natural products and hit identification database by ZINCPharmer. Autodock Vina was furthered utilized for estimation of hits' affinities to nsp12. A lead compound with the highest affinity to nsp12 was simulated dynamically by GROMACS for 10 nanoseconds (ns) to measure the hit stability in complex with nsp12 and conformational changes.Results: 1 of 6 cavities with the highest score was selected for extraction of pharmacophore features and hit-identification. 9 pharmacophores were screened, and a total of unique 1274 hits were identified. One compound, ZINV03977803, with an -11.0 Kcal.mol-1 affinity was selected as the lead compound for molecular dynamic simulation (MDS). The results showed stable interaction between ZINV03977803 and nsp12 during 10 ns of simulation. The room-mean-square of deviation (RMSD) measure showed dramatically high conformational changes in the complex of ZINV03977803 and nsp12 compare two the viral proteins alone.Conclusions: The lead compound ZINV03977803 showed stable interaction with higher potential and hydrogen bonding with the catalytic subunit of SARS-CoV-2, nsp12. It could also inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle by direct interaction with nsp12 and inhibits RdRp complex formation.
Parallel Mediation Model Linking Type D Personality with Adverse Health Outcomes in People with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lee Eun-Hyun , Lee Young Whee , Chae Duckhee , Kang Eun Hee , Kang Hyun-Jung
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aims to investigate a parallel mediation model to directly link Type D personality with adverse glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) health outcomes and health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and indirectly through diabetes distress and social isolation in people with type 2 diabetes.Methods: Secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey was used. Data on 524 people with type 2 diabetes from June 2020 to February 2021 were recruited from outpatient clinics. The analyzed components of the data set were Type D personality, diabetes distress, social isolation, HbA1c, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The hypothesized parallel mediation model was tested using the PROCESS macro for SPSS. A 10,000-bootstrap bias-corrected procedure was used to estimate 95% confidence intervals for indirect effects.Results: Type D personality was present in 31.3% of the participants. The direct effect of Type D personality on HbA1c was insignificant, but was significant on HRQOL. The indirect effects of Type D personality on HbA1c and HRQOL through diabetes distress and social isolation were both significant. The indirect effect on HRQOL through diabetes distress was greater than that through social isolation.Conclusion: People with a Type D personality more often experienced negative emotions in response to the burden of living with and managing diabetes and might have fewer interpersonal contacts, which in turn impair glycemic control and HRQOL. This study identified the mechanisms underlying the relationship between Type D personality and glycemic control and HRQOL in people with type 2 diabetes. Both diabetes distress and social isolation mediated these relationships. Health professionals must monitor people with type 2 diabetes to determine the presence of Type D personality. It is particularly recommended for those with Type D personality to be provided with interventions to reduce diabetes distress and to enhance social isolation in order to improve their glycemic control and HRQOL.
Surface Coal Mining Impacts On Land Use Change And Ecological Service Value: A Case Study In The Shengli Coalfield, Inner Mongolia
Authors: Zhang Lijia , Zhou Xu , Zhou Yan , Zhou Ji , Guo Jiwang , Zhai Zihan , Chen Yan , Su Xiangyan , Ying Lingxiao , Wang Liwei , Qiao Ying
Published: September 2021

Coal plays a crucial role in global economic development, which is still the most common and widely distributed fossil fuel in the world. As the world's largest developing country, China's mining and utilization of coal resources make great contributions to the rapid growth of China's economy. Inner Mongolia lies in the arid and semi-arid areas of China, its ecological environment is very fragile. The exploitation of opencast mining seriously hinders the sustainable use of regional land and the promotion of residents' well-being. This paper uses 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 remote sensing imageries, Based on ENVI, using a random forest algorithm to divide the land utilization type into construction land, vegetation, cultivated land, bare land and water area，and analyses the evolution characteristics of land use and ecosystem service value during the past 20 years. The results showed that: (1) Between 2000 and 2020, the construction land, vegetation and water of mining area were reduced, the bare land and cultivated land showed an increasing trend. The largest ratio changed is bare land, the smallest changed rate is water area. (2) The total ecosystem service value of the mining area reduced from10.939 billion yuan to 9.527 billion yuan. Among them, vegetation ecosystem service value is the highest, followed by cultivated land and water, and bare land ecosystem service value is the lowest. (3) From the spatial scale, the total ecosystem service value of the Shengli mining area decreases year by year, which shows that the land-use change in the mining area does have an impact on the ecosystem service value.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Refugees, Migrants and Asylum Seekers Living in Camps and Reception and Identification Centers in Greece in the Pre-Vaccination Period, February 2020 to May 2021. Summary of Epidemiological Findings
Authors: Sapounas Spiros , Mitrou Konstantinos , Asimakopoulos Alexandros Georgios , Antoniou Garyfallia , Papari Ioanna , Chrysostomou Anthi , Spyridis Ioannis , Panagoulias Ioannis , Gkolfinopoulou Kassiani , Spanakos Grigorios , Tryfinopoulou Kyriaki , Mellou Kassiani
Published: September 2021

Background: Protection of refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers living in open hosting camps (HCs) and reception and identification centers (RICs) has been a priority since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. We present the epidemiological data of COVID-19 infection in HCs/RICs in Greece from February 2020 to May 2021, before the initiation of the onsite vaccinations.Methods: Case confirmation was performed by rapid antigenic test and/or RT-PCR. Data were retrieved from the National COVID-19 registry. The notification rate by type of accommodation facility, by sex and ethnicity and the mean age of cases, were calculated for HCs, RICs and general population. Data on clinical manifestations, and disease severity (admissions to intensive care unit (ICU) / case fatality rate) were analysed.Results: Of the 397,497 recorded domestic COVID-19 infection cases, 2,609 (0.7%) regarded HCs/RICs; of them 1,566 (60%) were identified in 27 HCs and 1,043 (40%) in six RICs. The notification rate was 542 and 380 cases per 10,000 population in HCs/RICs and the general population, respectively (p-value<0.001).Up to February 2021 the occurrence of cases in HCs/RICs did not follow the occurrence of cases in the general population. After March 2021 the course of the outbreak in HCs/RICs and the general population was similar.The median age of cases in HCs/RICs and the general population was 27 (range:0-81) and 44 (range:0-106), respectively (p<0.001). Twenty-four different ethnicities were reported among migrant cases; 51% were from Afghanistan, 13% from Syria, 6% from Kongo and 5% from Somalia.Overall, 48% and 80% of cases, respectively in HCs/RICs and the general population were symptomatic (p<0.001). Five (0.2%) cases in HCs/RICs were admitted to the ICU compared to 10,426 cases (3.0%) in the general population (p-value <0.001). Case fatality rate was 3% in the general population and 0.08% in HCs/RICs (p-value <0.001).Conclusion: Recorded COVID-19 infections were less severe in migrants living at HCs/RICs than the general population, however, the number of identified cases was high and measures for the prevention of transmission should be strengthened.
Are solution processed CsPbI3 perovskite nanocrystalline films similar to traditional crystalline semiconductors?
Authors: Kobbekaduwa Kanishka , Liu Exian , Zhao Qian , Adhikari Pan , Xie Chendi , Zhang Jianbing , Shi Ying , Zheng Haimei , Li Dawen , Sanabria Hugo , Hu Ming , Cai Tong , Chen Ou , Rao Rahul , Rao Apparao , Beard Matthew , Luther Joseph , Gao Jianbo
Published: September 2021

We use ultrafast photocurrent spectroscopy with a sub-25 picosecond resolution to address a long-standing question in emergent perovskite materials: are solution-processed CsPbI3 perovskites nanocrystal films similar to their counterparts semiconductors including GaAs and Si? Prior to carrier trapping, all semiconductors show similar transition of transport mechanism from the band-like transport due to the longitudinal optical (LO) phonon scattering in the higher temperature region to a combination of band-like and hopping transport mechanisms in the lower temperature region. The critical difference is that CsPbI3 demonstrate the strongest carrier-LO phonon interaction among all semiconductors, most likely due to the unique cation-halogen bond arrangements within the highly symmetric lattice structure. This ultrafast dynamics work establish a foundation of fundamental carrier transport understating for perovskite optoelectronics.
The Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Soluble ST2 in Sepsis
Authors: Ye Xinghua , Wang Jia , Hu Le , Zhang Ying , Li Yixuan , Xuan Jingchao , Han Silu , Qu Yifan , Yang Long , Wei Bing , Wang Junyu , Yang Jun
Published: September 2021

Objective: To determine the diagnostic and prognostic value of soluble ST2 (sST2) in patients with sepsis. Methods: A total of 113 critically ill patients were enrolled from the emergency department of the Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Jing Xi Branch. The venous blood levels of sST2 were measured using the AFIAS-6 dry fluorescence immunoassay analyzer. The patients were divided into sepsis group (76 cases) and non-sepsis group (37 cases) based on sepsis 3.0 diagnostic criteria. The sepsis group was further sub-divided into the non-survivor group (38 cases) and survivor group (38 cases) according to the survival outcomes after follow-up for 28 days. The vital signs, blood gas analysis, routine blood tests, liver and kidney function tests, procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), sST2, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and other basic characteristics of the patients were recorded. Further, the SOFA, qSOFA and APACHE Ⅱ scores of each patient were calculated. Statistical software SPSS 25.0 was used for statistical analysis. Independent sample t-test was used for comparisons of measurement data, while chi-square test was used for comparisons of counting data. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic factors. Further, ROC curves were plotted to determine the predictive ability of sST2, lactic acid levels, SOFA and APACHE Ⅱ scores on survival. Result: The serum sST2 levels in the sepsis group (125.00±60.32ng/ml) were significantly higher than in the non-sepsis group (58.55±39.03ng/ml) (P<0.05). The SOFA score (8.08±2.88), APACHE Ⅱ score (18.00±4.72), blood sST2 levels (168.06±36.75ng/ml) and lactic acid levels (2.89±3.28) in the non-survivor group were significantly higher than the survivor group (P<0.05). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that sST2, SOFA score, APACHE Ⅱ score and lactic acid levels were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in patients with sepsis. The ROC curve analysis of the above indexes showed no significant differences between the AUC of sST2 (0.912) and the SOFA score (0.929) (z = 0.389, P = 0.697), or the APACHE Ⅱ score (0.933) (z = 0.484, P = 0.627). However, there was a significant difference between the AUC of sST2 (0.912) and lactic acid levels (0.768) (z = 2.153, P = 0.03). Conclusion: Blood levels of sST2 shows a clinically diagnostic and prognostic value in sepsis. Further, sST2 shows a similar predictive ability as the SOFA and APACHE Ⅱ scores in determining the prognosis of sepsis patients. However, sST2 has a higher predictive ability than lactic acid levels in determining prognosis in sepsis.
Lagged Oceanic Effects on the East African Short Rains
Authors: Kolstad Erik W , MacLeod David
Published: September 2021

The East African ‘short rains’ in October–December (OND) exhibit large interannual variability. Drought and flooding are not unusual, and long-range rainfall forecasts can guide planning and preparedness. Although seasonal forecasts based on dynamical models are making inroads, statistical models based on sea surface temperature (SST) precursors are still widely used. It is important to better understand the sources of skill of statistical models and why they sometimes fail. Here, we define a linear regression model, where the August states of El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) predict about 40% of the short rains variability in 1950–2020. The forecast errors are traced back to the initial SSTs: toowet (too-dry) forecasts are linked linearly to positive (negative) initial ENSO and IOD states in August. The link to the initial IOD state is mediated by IOD between August and OND, highlighting a physical mechanism for prediction busts. We also identify asymmetry and nonlinearity: when ENSO and/or the IOD are positive in August, the range and variance of OND forecast errors are larger than when the SST indices are negative. Upfront adjustments of predictions conditional on initial SSTs would have helped in some years with large forecast busts, such as the dry 1987 season during a major El Niño, for which the model erroneously predicts copious rainfall, but it would have exacerbated the forecast performance in the wet 2019 season, when the IOD was strongly positive and the model predicts too-dry conditions.
Optimal Design of Water Distribution Network Using Neuro – Fuzzy Technique
Authors: Rashid Abu , Kumari Sangeeta
Published: September 2021

Present paper is intended to develop optimal policy for Water Distribution Network using Neuro- Fuzzy Technique in an effective manner. Hydraulic simulation of the Real Network is performed in Water Gems and is used for the evaluation of the system performance measure. The real network is revised by adding certain Hydraulic parameters such as PBV’s (Pressure Break Valves) and Pumps and the results are found to be within standard limits for velocity and pressure specified by CPHEEO (Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organization). The networks are optimized using ANFIS (Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Interactive System) to achieve the optimal cost and to obtain maximum reliability of the network. The pipe length and diameters are considered as fuzzy variables in the model and given as inputs to the model and pressure and velocities are outputs of the model. A comparison is made which marks the proposed network optimized using ANFIS is more reliable than the real network with slight increase in cost. Chota Govindpur – Baghbera Water Supply System is used as Case Study which is located in East Singhbhum District Jharkhand, India and the source of water is Subarnarekha river originated from Nagri village in Ranchi district of Jharkhand.
Tiotropium Bromide As Adjunct Therapy In Children With Asthma: A Clinical Experience
Authors: Ridha Zainab , Bédard Marc-Antoine , Smyrnova Anna , Drouin Olivier , Pruteanu Aniela , Essouri Sandrine , Ducharme Francine M.
Published: September 2021

Background: The Global Initiative for Asthma has only recently been added tiotropium bromide as adjunct controller therapy in severe asthma (Step 4 or 5) in adults (2015) and children (2019). Although not yet approved for pediatric use by Health Canada, it has been occasionally offered by asthma specialists as a therapeutic trial in children with troublesome asthma or treatment adverse effects. The objective of this study was to describe the indications and real-life clinical experience in initiating tiotropium in children with asthma.Methods: We designed a retrospective mixed-method case series study of children aged 1-17 years who initiated tiotropium in our tertiary-care centre between 2013-2020. Clinical information was extracted from electronic medical records and tiotropium dispensing, from drug claims. Parents/children and physicians independently completed a questionnaire about treatment goals, perceived efficacy, safety, satisfaction, and lessons learned. Results: The 34 (11 females; 23 males) children had a median (range) age of 9.1 (1.4-17.8) years. Children were primarily on Step 4 (85%) or 5 (6%) prior to, yet most (84%) did not increase their treatment step after, tiotropium initiation. The physicians’ treatment goals were to improve asthma control, alleviate adverse effects of current therapy, and/or improve lung function. The most improved symptoms were coughing/moist cough, difficulty breathing, whistling breath, and bronchial secretions/mucus. Although most parents and physicans reported a significant benefit with tiotropium bromide, physicians particularly remarked, as their “lesson learned’, on the improvement in chronic symptoms in asthmatic children, particularly those with prominent moist cough and in lung function, in those with apparent fixed obstruction as well as the ability to decrease the ICS and/or LABA dose to lessen adverse effects. A few physicians raised caution on the risk of lower adherence with an additional inhaler. Conclusion: In children with severe asthma on Step 4 or 5, tiotropium bromide was primarily used as substitute, rather than additional, adjunct therapy to improve asthma control, alleviate adverse effects and/or to improve lung function. The latter two indications, combined with its perceived effectiveness in children with prominent moist cough, also suggest additional indications of tiotropium to be formally explored.
Sensitisation To Imbrasia Belina (Mopane Worm) and Other Local Allergens in Rural Gwanda District of Zimbabwe
Authors: Ndlovu Vuyelwa , Chimbari Moses , Ndarukwa Pisirai , Sibanda Elopy
Published: September 2021

Background
The prevalence of allergic diseases is increasing in Zimbabwe and the data relate to local as well as exotic allergen sources. As entomophagy, the practice of eating insects, is a recognised source of local allergens, we sought to measure the prevalence of and risk factors for sensitisation to Imbrasia belina (mopane worm), a popular edible insect. This was investigated alongside other locally relevant allergens in a rural community in Gwanda district, south of Zimbabwe.
Methods
A cross sectional study was conducted among 496 adults and children aged 10 years and above in Gwanda district, a mopane worm harvesting area in Zimbabwe. Data on individual characteristics, mopane worm exposure factors, sensitivity to commercial allergen extracts (Stallergenes, France) and in-house extracts of mopane worm (Imbrasia belina) and mopane leaves (Colophospermum mopane) were collected at a local clinic. Data were analysed using Stata version 13 software.
Results
The prevalence of sensitisation to at least one allergen was 31.17% (n = 144). The prevalence of atopy was higher in adults (33.33%) than in children (23.53%) (p = 0.059). The commonest inhalant allergen sources were mopane worm (14.29%), Tyrophagus putrescentiae (14.29%), mopane leaves (13.42%), Alternaria alternata (6.49%) and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (6.49%). Polysensitisation was demonstrated in the study population and of the 108 participants who were sensitised to two or more allergens, 66 (61%) were women. Sensitisation to mopane worm and mopane leaves often clustered with Tyrophagus putrescentiae amongst adults. Adjusted logistic regression analyses between mopane worm sensitisation and self-reported exposure variables showed that sensitisation was more likely amongst mopane worm harvesters (OR = 1.92, 95%CI = 0.77–4.79), those who cooked or roasted mopane worms during harvesting (OR = 2.69, 95%CI = 0.78–9.31) and harvesting without personal protective equipment (PPE) (OR = 2.12, 95%CI = 0.83–5.44) compared to non-harvesters.
Conclusion
Atopic sensitization was common in this mopane worm harvesting community in Gwanda district of Zimbabwe. There was frequent co-sensitisation of mopane worm and mopane leaves with Tyrophagus putrescentiae in children and adults. It is important to determine the clinical relevance of our findings, particularly relating to mopane worm sensitisation.
Population-Level Predictors of STI Rate Changes in Missouri From 2008-2017
Authors: Valleroy Ella , Reed Aaron , Lightner Joseph S.
Published: September 2021

BackgroundSexually transmitted infection rates continue to increase across the US, further developing health disparities and economic burdens of disease, especially as migration occurs. In this study, we assessed the relationships among STI rates and migration at the county-level in Missouri from 2008–2017.MethodsTwo data sources were used: STI rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV reported to Missouri DHSS and ACS 1-year county population estimates. Linear regression models and ANOVA tests were conducted in SPSS for each STI from year-to-year and 2008–2017. Covariates included in the analyzes were county-level income, employment rate, race, ethnicity, age, and percent poverty. Further, Akaike Information Criterion tests were performed to indicate the best predictor models and averaged standardized beta values.ResultsSignificant relationships among STI rates and population growth were identified. Chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV were positively associated with population growth from 2008–2017 (β = 0.15; β = 0.01; β = 0.05, respectively). Gonorrhea was negative associated with population growth (β= -0.02) but positively associated with unemployment rates (β = 0.01) highlighting the need to address population growth, as well as other variables in a population.ConclusionsThere seems to be a positive relationship among population change and rates of STIs. As populations change, rates of STIs change. Moving forward, quantitative work should be conducted in various states and the nation to understand this relationship in different contexts. Qualitative studies should assess individual county health departments, identifying strengths and weaknesses, implementation of community health improvement plans. Lastly, public policy should be implemented to buffer the impact of migration on health outcomes.
Factors Determining the Subseasonal Prediction Skill of Summer Extreme Rainfall Over Southern China
Authors: Wu Junting , Li Juan , Zhu Zhiwei , Hsu Pang-Chi
Published: September 2021

The occurrence of summer extreme rainfall over southern China (SCER) is closely related with the boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO). Whether the operational models can reasonably predict the BSISO evolution and its modulation on SCER probability is crucial for disaster prevention and mitigation. Here, we find that the skill of subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) operational models in predicting the first component of BSISO (BSISO1) might play an important role in determining the forecast skill of SCER. The systematic assessment of reforecast data from the S2S database show that the ECMWF model performs a skillful prediction of BSISO1 index up to 24 days, while the skill of CMA model is about 10 days. Accordingly, the SCER occurrence is correctly predicted by ECMWF (CMA) model at a forecast lead time of ~14 (6) days. The diagnostic results of modeled moisture processes further suggest that the anomalous moisture convergence (advection) induced by the BSISO1 activity serves as the primary (secondary) source of subseasonal predictability of SCER. Once the operational model well predicts the moisture convergence anomaly in the specific phases of BSISO1, the higher skill for the probability prediction of SCER is obtained. The present study implies that a further improvement in predicting the BSISO and its related moisture processes is crucial to facilitating the subseasonal prediction skill of SCER probability.
A novel insight into the fabrication of Polyhydroxyalkanoates from actinobacteria Streptomyces toxytricini D2: screening, optimization, and biopolymer characterization
Authors: Narayanan Mathiyazhagan , Kumarasamy Suresh , Kandasamy Gajendiran , Kandasamy Sabariswaran , Narayanamoorthy Bhuvanendran , Pugazhendhi Arivalagan Arivalagan
Published: September 2021

The objective of this study was to find a biopolymer producing potential actinobacteria candidate from polluted soil. A biopolymer fabricating Streptomyces toxytricini D2 was isolated and characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing. The S. toxytricini D2 produced polymeric granules were categorized by FTIR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR analyses and confirmed that the produced granules were Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). The S. toxytricini D2 has the competence to fabricate 86.56% of PHAs (23.64 g L-1 of PHAs from 27.31 g L-1 of biomass) under the optimized growth conditions: 8% of tapioca molasses, 4% of (NH4)2SO4, 8% of inoculum, pH 6.5, 30 ºC and 72 h of incubation. These results concluded that this is the novel report about the S. toxytricini D2 as could be used as an efficient candidate for the mass production of PHAs polymer under optimized conditions with low-cost carbon source and in a short duration of the production process.
Does Fracture Liaison Service Improves Fracture Risk Assessment among Patients with Fragility Fractures? A Systematic Review
Authors: Pidani Anum Sadruddin , Noordin Shahryar , Sale Joanna
Published: September 2021

Background:
The fragility fractures can cause substantial pain, disability, reduced quality of life and mortality. The probability of sustaining subsequent fractures increases up to five times after an initial fragility fracture. The Fracture Liaison Service is a coordinated model of care that aims to bridge the post-fracture care gap by improving subsequent fracture risk assessment and post-fracture management. However, there are very few studies that included fracture risk assessment as a significant outcome of an FLS program. This systematic review aims to evaluate the available evidence on the effect of FLS in improving fracture risk assessment among fragility fracture patients
Method:
A systematic literature search will be carried out on the major electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL Plus, and Cochrane to identify the outcomes of Fracture Liaison Service. The literature search will not be restricted to the context and year of publication. Two researchers will independently conduct the databases search. We will pilot the search strategy to ensure sufficient sensitivity and specificity. The JBI critical appraisal tools will be used to assess methodological quality of all the included studies.
Discussion:
This review will highlight an urgent need for more studies from different geographical areas to determine best practices for implementing fracture risk assessment globally and guiding clinical decision making for osteoporosis management. The findings of this systematic review will highlight the importance of including fracture risk assessment as a significant parameter to evaluate FLS programs implemented across the globe.
Conclusion:
This systematic review will provide more information about fracture risk assessments and its reporting. It will also highlight the variations in the methods of performing a fracture risk assessment with and without BMD testing and the impact of the FLS program in improving fracture risk assessment.
Cerebral Microbleeds With Atrial Fibrillation After Ablation Therapy
Authors: Hirata Yoshinori , Kato Natsuko , Nakamura Naoko , Muraga Kanako , Shindo Akihiro , Matsuura Keita , Ii Yuichiro , Shiga Mariko , Tabei Ken-ichi , Satoh Masayuki , Fukuma Tomoyuki , Kagawa Yoshihiko , Fujita Satoshi , Kogue Ryouta , Umino Maki , Maeda Masayuki , Sakuma Hajime , Dohi Kaoru , Tomimoto Hidekazu
Published: September 2021

Background: The prevalence of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) is significantly higher in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) than in those without AF. CMBs in patients with AF have been reported to be primarily of the lobar type, but the exact cause of this remains unknown. We investigated the possibility that hemorrhagic transformation of embolic microinfarction can account for de novo lobar CMBs. Methods: A total of 101 patients who underwent ablation therapy for AF were prospectively registered, and 72 patients completed the assessment with MRI 6 months after catheter ablation. Brain MRI, including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), were examined at 1–3 days (baseline) and 6 months after catheter ablation. We quantitatively evaluated the spatial and temporal distribution of embolic microinfarctions and de novo CMBs.Results: Of the 101 patients, 68 were enrolled in this study. Fifty-nine patients (86.8%) showed embolic microinfarctions on baseline DWI immediately after catheter ablation. There were 137 CMBs in SWI, and 96 CMBs were of the lobar type. Six months later, there were 208 CMBs, including 71 de novo CMBs, and 60 of 71 (84.5%) were of the lobar type. Of the 71 de novo CMBs, 56 (78.9%) corresponded exactly to the location of previous embolic microinfarctions found on baseline DWI. The platelet count was significantly lower and hematocrit/hemoglobin and Fazekas score were higher in the group with de novo CMBs than in the group without de novo CMBs. Conclusions: De novo CMBs frequently appeared after catheter ablation therapy. Our results suggest that embolic microinfarction can cause lobar CMBs.
Identity Crisis: An Integrative Re-Evaluation of Typhlatya Shrimp within the Karst Aquifer of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico.
Authors: Ballou Lauren , Brankovits David , Chávez-Solís Efraín M. , Gonzalez Brett C. , Rohret Shari , Salinas Alexa , Liu Arielle , Simões Nuno , Alvarez Fernando , Miglietta Maria Pia , Iliffe Thomas M. , Borda Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

The Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico is a carbonate platform well-known for extensive karst networks of densely stratified aquifer ecosystems. This aquifer supports diverse anchialine fauna, including species of the globally distributed atyid shrimp genus Typhlatya. Four species (T. campecheae, T. pearsei, T. dzilamensis and T. mitchelli) are endemic to the Peninsula, of which three are federally listed in Mexico. This first integrative evaluation [i.e., molecular (public and newly generated), morphological, broad geographic and type locality sampling, and environmental data] of Yucatán Typhlatya reveals considerable species identity conflict in prior phylogenetic assessments, broad species ranges and sympatry within cave systems, five genetic lineages (three known and two new to science) with the endangered T. campecheae herein classified as junior synonym of the vulnerable T. pearsei. Ancestral/divergence reconstructions support convergent evolution of a low-salinity/stenohaline ancestor of a post-Paleogene arc Yucatán+Cuba Typhlatya clade within a euryhaline/anchialine-adapted atyid clade, and secondary adaptation of the coastal-restricted euryhaline [2-37 psu] T. dzilamensis (unknown conservation status), of which the remaining four species lineages are low-salinity/stenohaline adapted found in both inland and coastal regions. This study demonstrates the need for integrative/interdisciplinary approaches when conducting biodiversity assessments in complex and poorly studied aquifers.