bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Nursing Home Admission in the Older Population in Belgium
Authors: Berete Finaba , Demarest Stefaan , Charafeddine Rana , Ridder Karin , Vanoverloop Johan , Oyen Herman , Bruyère Olivier , Heyden Johan
Published: January 2022

BackgroundThis study examines the risk factors associated with nursing home admission (NHA) in Belgium to contribute to a better planning of the future demand for nursing home (NH) services and health care resources.MethodsIndividual level linkage of the 2013 Belgian health interview survey data and health insurance data (2012 to 2018) was done. Only non-institutionalized participants, aged ≥65 years at the time of the survey were included in this study (n=1930). Participants were followed until NHA, death or end of study period, i.e., December 31, 2018. The risk of NHA was calculated using a competing risk analysis.ResultsOver the follow-up period (median 5.29 years), 226 individuals were admitted to a NH and 268 died without admission to a NH. The overall cumulative risk of NHA was 1.4%, 5.7% and 13.1% at, respectively 1 year, 3 years and the end of follow-up. After multivariable adjustment, higher age, low educational attainment, belonging to low income household, living alone, use of home care services and a number of need factor (e.g., history of falls, suffering from urinary incontinence, depression or Alzheimer disease, etc.) were significantly associated with a higher risk of NHA, while female, individuals with multimorbidity and increased contacts with health care providers were significantly associated with a decreased risk of NHA. Subjective health and limitations are both significant determinants of NHA, but subjective health is an effect modifier on the effect of limitations and vice versa.ConclusionsOur findings pinpoint important predictors of NHA in older adults, and offer possibilities of prevention to avoid or delay NHA for this population. The strong impact of need factors on the risk of NHA may indicate equitable access to NHA (i.e., those in need for support have access to NH). Practical implications include prevention of falls and appropriate and timely management of physical chronic conditions and neurodegenerative disorders. Focus should also be on people living alone to provide the appropriate social support and/or home care services. Further investigation of predictors of NHA should include contextual factors such as the availability of nursing-home beds, hospital beds, physicians and waiting lists for NHA.
Comparison of MR Perfusion and FDG-PET Brain Studies in Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease and Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Wabik Aleksandra , Trypka Elżbieta , Bladowska Joanna , Statkiewicz Mikołaj , Sąsiadek Marek , Zimny Anna
Published: January 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to compare Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast Enhanced MRI (DSC-MRI) and PET with flurodeoxyglucose (FDG-PET) in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI).Methods: Age and sex matched 27 patients with AD, 39 with aMCI and 16 controls underwent brain DSC-MRI followed by FDG-PET. Values of relative Cerebral Blood Volume (rCBV) and rCBV z-scores from frontal, temporal, parietal and PCG cortices were correlated with the rate of glucose metabolism from PET. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of DSC-MRI and FDG-PET in the diagnosis of AD and aMCI were assessed and compared.Results: In AD hypoperfusion was found within all examined locations, while in aMCI in both parietal and temporal cortices and left PCG. FDG-PET showed the greatest hypometabolism in parietal, temporal and left PCG regions in both AD and aMCI. FDG-PET was more accurate in distinguishing aMCI from controls than DSC-MRI. In AD and combined group (AD + aMCI ) there were numerous correlations between DSC-MRI and FDG-PET results. Conclusions: In AD the patterns of hypoperfusion and glucose hypometabolism are similar thus DSC-MRI may be a competitive method to FDG-PET. FDG-PET is a more accurate method in the diagnosis of aMCI.
Enhancing Intelligent Anemia Detection via Unifying Global and Local Views of Conjunctiva Image with Two-Branch Neural Networks
Authors: Zheng Lijuan , Liu Shaopeng , Tian Senping , Guo Jianhua , Wang Xinpeng , Liao Xiuxiu , Hong Jiaming
Published: January 2022

Anemia is one of the most widespread clinical symptoms all over the world, which could bring adverse effects on people's daily life and work. Considering the universality of anemia detection and the inconvenience of traditional blood testing methods, many deep learning detection methods based on image recognition have been developed in recent years, including the methods of anemia detection with individuals’ images of conjunctiva. However, existing methods using one single conjunctiva image could not reach comparable accuracy in anemia detection in many real-world application scenarios. To enhance intelligent anemia detection using conjunctiva images, we proposed a new algorithmic framework which could make full use of the data information contained in the image. To be concrete, we proposed to fully explore the global and local information in the image, and adopted a two-branch neural network architecture to unify the information of these two aspects. Compared with the existing methods, our method can fully explore the information contained in a single conjunctiva image and achieve more reliable anemia detection effect. Compared with other existing methods, the experimental results verified the effectiveness of the new algorithm.
Effects of Lockdowns And Its Impacts On Age-Specific Transmission Dynamics of SARS-Cov-2 In Georgia, USA
Authors: Lau Max SY , Liu Carol , Siegler Aaron , Sullivan Patrick , Waller Lance A. , Shioda Kayoko , Lopman Benjamin
Published: January 2022

Social distancing measures are effective in reducing overall community transmission but much remains unknown about how they have impacted finer-scale dynamics. In particular, much is unknown about how changes of contact patterns and other behaviors including adherence to social distancing, induced by these measures, may have impacted finer-scale transmission dynamics among different age groups. In this paper, we build a stochastic age-specific transmission model to systematically characterize the degree and variation of age-specific transmission dynamics, before and after lifting the lockdown in Georgia, USA. We perform Bayesian (missing-) data-augmentation model inference, leveraging reported age-specific case, seroprevalence and mortality data. We estimate that community-level transmissibility was reduced to 41.2% with 95% CI [39%, 43.8%] of the pre-lockdown level in about a week of the announcement of the shelter-in-place order. Although it subsequently increased after the lockdown was lifted, it only bounced back to 62% [58%, 67.2%] of the pre-lockdown level after about a month. We also find that during the lockdown susceptibility to infection increases with age. Specifically, relative to the oldest age group (>65+), susceptibility for the youngest age group (0-17 years) is 0.13 [0.09, 0.18], and it increases to 0.53 [0.49, 0.59] for 18-44 and 0.75 [0.68, 0.82] for 45- 64. More importantly, our results reveal clear changes of age-specific susceptibility (defined as average risk of getting infected during an infectious contact incorporating age-dependent behavioral factors) after the lockdown was lifted, with a trend largely consistent with reported age-specific adherence levels to social distancing and preventive measures. Specifically, the older groups (>45) (with the highest levels of adherence) appear to have the most significant reductions of susceptibility (e.g., post-lockdown susceptibility reduced to 31.6% [29.3%, 34%] of the estimate before lifting the lockdown for the 65+ group). Finally, we find heterogeneity in case reporting rates among different age groups, with the lowest rate occurring among the 0-18 group (9.7% [6.4%, 19%]). Our results provide a more fundamental understanding of the impacts of stringent lockdown measures, and finer evidence that other social distancing and preventive measures may be effective in reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission. These results may be exploited to guide more effective implementations of these measures in many current settings (with low vaccination rate globally and emerging variants) and in future potential outbreaks of novel pathogens.
Pain Characteristics Among Individuals with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy According to Their Clinical Stage
Authors: Kim Aram , Park Mina , Shin Hyung-Ik
Published: January 2022

Background: Assessment of pain is not routine, standardized, or well-understood in individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), even though pain is a common problem reported by more than half of DMD patients. Previous studies in this area included multiple neuromuscular diseases with highly variable phenotypes. Therefore, our aim was to focus on DMD specifically and evaluate comprehensive pain characteristics according to the disease stages, from ambulatory to late non-ambulatory. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in an out-patient pediatric rehabilitation clinic. Participants were 148 males with confirmed DMD, 14.5±5.3 years of age. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire regarding pain frequency, duration, intensity, location, aggravating/relieving factors, pain interference (Brief Pain Inventory), pain quality (PainDETECT Questionnaire), and functional ability (DMD Functional Ability Self-Assessment Tool). Pain characteristics were analyzed according to the clinical stage: ambulatory (Amb), early non-ambulatory (ENA), and late non-ambulatory (LNA).Results: Of the 148 participants who completed the assessment, 66 (44.6%) reported pain during the previous 4 weeks. There were no differences in the pain duration or intensity among the three groups. Pain location (Amb: calf, ENA: knee, LNA: lumbosacral region), aggravating factor (Amb: ambulation, ENA: transfer, LNA: sitting), and relieving factor (Amb: rest and massage, ENA and LNA: positional change) differed according to the clinical stage. Individuals in the LNA stage reported an increase in the frequency of pain and number of pain sites. The effect of pain on mood was also found to be greater in the LNA group than in the other clinical stages. Conclusion: Pain characteristics including location, aggravating/relieving factors, pain frequency, and pain interference change as the disease progresses in patients with DMD. Clinicians could more efficiently and critically assess and manage the patients’ pain aspect, based on these findings.
Mathematical Analysis of Supply Chain Optimization focusing on Artificial Neural Network: A case study in Apparel Manufacturing Organization
Authors: Ahmad Shibbir , Kamruzzaman Mohammad
Published: January 2022

In this study, implemented artificial nueral network (Ann) in apparel manufacturing organizations to optimize the supply chain converging on right supplier selection by analyzing their performance criteria.Moreover, data collected from three diffrents factory to analyze the efficiney and profit -loss status of that units. Furthermore, analyze the supplier selection criteria of three suppliers in order to select the right supplier at the real time in apparel manufacturing industry . This study shows that it can be saved 20 % of the total cost.
PPAR-γ Promotes the Polarization of Rat Retinal Microglia To M2 Phenotype By Regulating the Expression of CD200-CD200R1 Under Hypoxia
Authors: Hong Yiyi , Jiang Li , Huang Wei , Deng Wen , Tang Fen , Shen Chaolan , Lan Qianqian , Huang Hui , Zhong Haibin , Lv Jian , Zeng Siming , Peng Biyan , Ouyang Yiqiang , Liang Jinning , Mo Zhongxiang , Chen Qi , Cui Ling , Zhang Mingyuan , Zhou Zhou , Chen Changzheng , Li Min , Xu Fan
Published: January 2022

Objective
Based on recent reports, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) could promote microglial M2 polarization to inhibit inflammation. However, the specific molecular mechanisms instigate the anti-inflammatory ability of PPAR-γ in microglia have not been expounded. In the present study, we explored the molecular mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effects of PPAR-γ in hypoxia-stimulated rat microglial cells.
Methods
shRNA expressing lentivirus was used to knock down PPAR-γ and CD200 genes. The hypoxia-induced polarization markers release (M1: iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α; M2: Arg-1, YM1, IL-4 and IL-10) was assessed by RT-PCR, while PPAR-γ-related signals (PPAR-γ, PPAR-γ in cytoplasm or nucleus, CD200 and CD200Rs) were monitored by western blot and RT-PCR.
Results
Hypoxia enhanced PPAR-γ and CD200 expressions in microglial cells. In addition, PPAR-γ agonist 15d-PGJ2 elevated CD200 and CD200R1 expressions, while sh-PPAR-γ (PPAR-γ knock-down) had just the opposite effect. Following hypoxia, expressions of M1 markers increased significantly, while those of M2 markers decreased, and the above effects were attenuated by 15d-PGJ2. Conversely, knocking down PPAR-γ or CD200 inhibited the polarization of microglial cells to M2 phenotype.
Conclusion
Results demonstrated that PPAR-γ performed an anti-inflammatory function in hypoxia-stimulated microglial cells by promoting their polarization to M2 phenotype via CD200-CD200R1 pathway.
Manual Compression Versus MANTA Device for Access Management After Impella Removal on the ICU
Authors: Cuculi Florim , Burkart Philipp , Cioffi Giacomo , Moccetti Federico , Madanchi Mehdi , Seiler Thomas , Hess Stefanie , Wolfrum Mathias , Jeyarasa Magiliny , Meier Sonja , Kuzmiakova Silvia , Hakimi Maani , Seelos Robert , Kobza Richard , Toggweiler Stefan , Attinger Adrian , Bossard Matthias
Published: January 2022

Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of manual compression versus use of the MANTA® closure device for access management after Impella® removal on the intensive care unit (ICU).Background: The number of patients treated with percutaneous left ventricular assist devices (pLVAD), namely Impella® and ECMO, for complex cardiac procedures or shock, is growing. However, removal of pLVAD and large bore arteriotomy closure among such patients on the ICU remains challenging, since it is associated with a high risk for bleeding and vascular complications. Methods: Patients included in a prospective registry between 2017 and 2020 were analyzed. Bleeding and vascular access site complications were assessed and adjudicated according to VARC-2 criteria. Results: We analyzed a cohort of 87 consecutive patients, who underwent access closure after Impella® removal on ICU by using either the MANTA® device or manual compression. The cohort´s mean age was 66.1±10.7 years and 76 patients (87%) were recovering from CS. Mean support time was 40 hours (Interquartile range 24–69 hours). MANTA® was used in 31 patients (35.6%) and manual compression was applied in 56 patients (64.4%). Overall access related bleedings were significantly lower in the MANTA® group (6.5% versus 39.3%(odds ratio (OR) 0.10, 95% CI 0.01–0.50; p=0.001), and there was no significant difference in vascular complications between the two groups(p=0.55).Conclusions: Our data suggests that the application of the MANTA® device directly on the ICU is safe. In addition, it seems to reduce access related bleeding without increasing the risk of vascular complications.
Nucleation Parameters of SPC/E And TIP4P/2005 Water Vapor Measured In NPT Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Němec Tomáš
Published: January 2022

Nucleation rates for droplet formation in water vapor are measured in molecular dynamics simulations of SPC/E and TIP4P/2005 water by monitoring individual nucleation events. The nucleation process is simulated in the NPT ensemble to evaluate the steady-state nucleation rate in accordance with the assumptions of classical nucleation theory (CNT). Nucleation rates measured between 300 K and 425 K for the SPC/E model, and between 325 K and 475 K for the TIP4P/2005 model, agree with the CNT predictions roughly within the standard deviation of the MD measurements of the nucleation rates.
Towards Modelling of Evacuation Behavior and Planning for Emergency Logistics Due to the Philippine Taal Volcanic Eruption in 2020
Authors: Lim Hector , Lim Ma. Bernadeth , Rojas Ann Wendy
Published: January 2022

Emergency evacuation is the immediate escape of people away from a place of an imminent threat to a place of safety. The ability of the households to evacuate is a crucial component in reducing disaster risk. Logistical issues such as a lack of resources during and after the evacuation, as well as road congestion, might arise, especially in short and no-notice calamities such as a volcanic eruption. This study examines the relationship of variables of evacuation logistics of Barangay Banga, Talisay, Batangas in the context of the 2020 Taal Volcanic eruption. A survey was conducted based on the experience of the households during the volcanic eruption. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed for all the variables on household evacuation logistics to understand the behavior of households as they make decisions during emergencies. These variables include the type of evacuation, departure timing, evacuation mode choice, and destination choice. Additionally, a pairwise correlation was employed to identify the influential factors related to household evacuation logistics such as socio-demographic and household characteristics, hazard-related factors as well as their experience with Taal Volcano’s recurring activities. The results of this study aim to provide insights to a better understanding of the evacuation behavior of households in the context of a volcanic eruption and be useful in the evacuation logistics planning of the country.
Comparison Between Culture-Positive and Culture-Negative Septic Shock in Emergency Department Patients
Authors: Huang Yen-Chang , Hung Chi-Chieh , Yang Yong-Ye , Wang Tsung-Han , Hsu Yin-Chou
Published: January 2022

Culture results in patients with septic shock affect their management strategies. Our study aimed to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with culture-negative septic shock (CNSS) and culture-positive septic shock (CPSS). A single-center, retrospective, case-control study included adult patients diagnosed with septic shock in the emergency department between January 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020. They were divided into CNSS and CPSS groups based on their culture results. Patients with CPSS (63.7%, 311/488) and CNSS (36.3%, 177/488) were identified. The CPSS and CNSS groups had comparable clinical outcomes, including mechanical ventilation (29.6% vs. 32.8%, p = 0.46), renal replacement therapy (19.3% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.31), intensive care unit care (51.8% vs. 45.2%, p = 0.16), 30-day (35.7% vs. 36.7%, p = 0.82) and in-hospital mortality (39.5% vs. 41.8%, p = 0.63). The duration (13 [8−19] vs. 16 [10−23], days, p = 0.04) and de-escalation timing (5 [2−10] vs. 9 [7−12], day, p = 0.02) of antibiotic administration in the CNSS group was significantly shorter and earlier than in the CPSS group. Patients with CNSS and CPSS had similar clinical characteristics and adverse outcome proportions. Physicians can evaluate the feasibility of early de-escalation or discontinuation of antibiotic administration in CNSS patients with clinical improvement.
Benzyl Farnesyl Amine Mimetics are Potent Inhibitors of the Sterol Biosynthesis Pathway in Leishmania Amazonensis Leading to Oxidative Stress, Growth Arrest, and Ultrastructural Alterations
Authors: Macedo-Silva Sara Teixeira , Visbal Gonzalo , Souza Gabrielle Frizzo , Santos Mayara Roncaglia dos , Cämmerer Simon B. , de Souza Wanderley , Rodrigues Juliany Cola Fernandes
Published: January 2022

Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus spread around the world. Benzyl farnesyl amine mimetics are known class of compounds selectively designed to inhibit the squalene synthase (SQS) enzyme that catalyzes the first committed reaction on the sterol biosynthesis pathway. Herein, we studied seven new benzyl farnesyl amine mimetics (SBC 37 - 43) against Leishmania amazonensis. After the first initial screening of cell viability, two inhibitors (SBC 39 and SBC 40) were selected for further studies. Against intracellular amastigotes, SBC 39 and SBC 40 presented selectivity indexes of 117.7 and 180, respectively, indicating that they are highly selective. Analyses of free sterol showed that SBC 39 and SBC 40 inhibit two enzymes, sterol Δ8 → Δ7 isomerase and SQS, resulting in depletion of endogenous 24-methyl sterols. Physiological analysis and electron microscopy revealed three main alterations: 1) in the mitochondrion ultrastructure and function; 2) the presence of lipid bodies and autophagosomes; and 3) the appearance of projections in the plasma membrane and extracellular vesicles inside the flagellar pocket. In conclusion, our results support the notion that benzyl farnesyl amine mimics have a potent effect against Leishmania amazonensis and should be an interesting novel pharmaceutical lead for the development of new chemotherapeutic alternatives to treat leishmaniasis.
Linking Physical Activity to Personal Values: Feasibility and Acceptability Randomized Pilot of a Behavioral Intervention for Older Adults with Osteoarthritis Pain
Authors: Vilardaga Jennifer C Plumb , Kelleher Sarah , Diachina Allison , Riley Jennie , Somers Tamara
Published: January 2022

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) pain is common and leads to functional impairment for many older adults. Physical activity can improve OA outcomes for older adults, but few are appropriately active. Behavioral interventions can reduce barriers to physical activity. We developed and tested a brief, novel behavioral intervention for older adults combining values to enhance motivation and strategic activity pacing to improve arthritis-related pain and functioning and increase physical activity.
Methods

A randomized feasibility and acceptability pilot trial compared Engage-PA to treatment as usual plus fitness tracker (TAU+) in N=40 adults age 65+ with OA pain in the knee or hip. Engage-PA involved two 60-minute telephone sessions. All participants wore a fitness tracker to collect daily steps throughout the study and completed baseline and post-treatment assessments of secondary outcomes (arthritis-related pain and physical functioning, physical activity, psychological distress, psychological flexibility, and value-guided action). The impact of COVID-19 on general wellbeing and physical activity was also assessed. Descriptive statistics were conducted for feasibility and acceptability outcomes. Indicators of improvement in secondary outcomes were examined via change scores from baseline to post-treatment and performing independent samples t-tests to assess for between-group differences.
Results

Feasibility was high; 100% accrual, low (5%) attrition, and 100% completion of study sessions. Acceptability was high, with 89% finding the intervention “mostly” or “very” helpful. Engage-PA participants demonstrated improvements in arthritis pain severity (Mdiff=1.68, p<.05), arthritis-related physical functioning (Mdiff=.875, p=.056), and self-reported activity (Mdiff=.875, p<.05) from baseline to post-treatment as compared to TAU+. Sixty-three percent of participants provided useable objective daily steps data. Other secondary outcome patterns were not interpretable in this small sample. COVID-19 added additional burden to participants, such that 50% were exercising less, 68% were more sedentary, and 72% lost access to spaces and social support to be active.
Conclusions

Engage-PA is a promising brief, novel behavioral intervention that has potential to support older adults in improving arthritis-related pain and functioning and increasing physical activity. The feasibility and acceptability of the intervention is particularly notable as most participants reported COVID-19 added more barriers to physical activity, and Engage-PA may be appealing in future studies.
Trial Registration:

clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04490395, registered 7/29/2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04490395.
A New Multistate Transition Model For Effect Estimation In Randomized Trials With Treatment Switching And A Cured Subgroup
Authors: Hu Haixia , Wang Ling , Li Chen , Ge Wei , Xia Jielai
Published: January 2022

Background: Many methods, including multistate models, have been proposed in the literature to estimate the treatment effect on overall survival in randomized trials with treatment switching permit after the disease progression. Nevertheless, the cured fraction of patients has not been considered. The cured would never experience the progressive disease, but they may suffer death with a hazard comparable to that of people without the disease. With the mix of the cured subgroup, existing methods yield highly biased effect estimation and fail to reflect the truth in uncured patients. Methods: In this paper, we propose a new multistate transition model to incorporate the cure, progression, treatment switching, and death states during trials. In the proposed model, the probability of cure and the death hazard of the cured are modeled separately. For the not cured patients, the semi-competing risks model is used with the treatment effect evaluated via transitional hazards between states. The particle swarm optimization algorithm is adopted to estimate the model parameters. Results: Extensive simulation studies have been conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed multistate model and compare it with existing treatment switching adjustment methods. Results show that in all scenarios, the treatment effect estimation of the proposed model is more accurate than that of existing treatment switching adjustment methods. Besides, the application to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma data has also illustrated the superiority of the proposed model.Conclusions: The superiority and robustness of the proposed multistate transition model qualify it to estimate the treatment effect in trials with the treatment switching permit after progression and a cured subgroup.
Dephosphorylation of Nitrate Reductase Protein Regulates Growth of Rice and Adaptability to Low Temperature
Authors: Han Ruicai , Li Chenyan , Li Huijie , Wang Yupeng , Pan Xiaohua , Shi Qinghua , Fang Jiahai , Wu Ziming
Published: January 2022

Nitrate reductase (NR) is an important enzyme for nitrate assimilation in plants, and its activity is regulated by post-translational phosphorylation. To investigate the effect of NIA1 protein dephosphorylation on the growth of rice and its adaptability to low temperature, we analyzed phenotype, chlorophyll content, nitrogen utilization, and antioxidant capacity at low temperature in lines with a mutated NIA1 phosphorylation site (S532D and S532A), an OsNia1 over-expression line (OE), and wild-type Kitaake rice (WT). Plant height, dry matter weight, and chlorophyll content of S532D and S532A were lower than those of WT and OE under normal growth conditions but were higher than those of WT and OE at low temperature. Compared with WT and OE, the nitrite, H2O2, and MDA contents of S532D and S532A leaves were higher under normal growth conditions. The difference in leaf nitrite content between transgenic lines and WT was narrower at low temperature, especially in S532D and S532A, while H2O2 and MDA contents of S532D and S532A leaves were lower than those in WT and OE leaves. The NH4+-N and amino acid contents of S532D and S532A leaves were higher than those of WT and OE leaves under normal or low temperature. qRT-PCR results revealed that transcription levels of OsNrt2.4, OsNia2, and OsNADH-GOGAT were positively correlated with those of OsNia1, and the transcription levels of OsNrt2.4, OsNia2, and OsNADH-GOGAT were significantly higher in transgenic lines than in WT under both normal and low temperature. Phosphorylation of NR is a steady-state regulatory mechanism of nitrogen metabolism, and dephosphorylation of NIA1 protein improved NR activity and nitrogen utilization efficiency in rice. Excessive accumulation of nitrite under normal growth conditions inhibits the growth of rice; however, accumulation of nitrite is reduced at low temperature, enhancing the cold tolerance of rice.
Dynamic Alteration in Cerebral Total Hemoglobin Concentration Measured Using Portable Near-infrared Spectroscopy in Orthostatic Hypotension and Intolerance
Authors: Kim Jae-Myoung , Park Kyung-Il , Choi Su-Yeon , Park Hyo Eun , Lee Heesun , Bae Hyeon-Min
Published: January 2022

A portable near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) system was used to evaluate alterations in cerebral total hemoglobin concentration (HbT) in individuals with orthostatic hypotension (OH) and orthostatic intolerance (OI) symptoms. We enrolled 238 healthy participants (mean age, 47.9 years) and assessed the presence of OH (orthostatic blood pressure (BP) drop of systolic BP ≥ 20 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥ 10 mmHg within 3 minutes of supine-to-stand) and OI symptoms using the OH questionnaire. The participants were categorized into three groups based on the presence of OH and OI symptoms: the classic OH (OH-BP) group, symptom alone (OH-Sx) group, and control group. Random case-control matching sets (age, sex, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus) were constructed consisting of 16 OH-BP and 69 OH-Sx-control sets. We measured the time-derivative of HbT change in the prefrontal cortex during the squat-to-stand maneuver. There were no differences in demographics, baseline BP, and heart rate among the matched sets. Among the NIRS parameters, the peak-time of maximum slope variation was significantly longer in the OH-Sx and OH-BP groups than in the matched control groups during transition to the standing position after squatting. Our results suggested that OH and OI symptoms are associated with dynamic alteration in cerebral HbT.
Microvirga Puerhi Sp. Nov., Isolated from Puerh Tea Garden Soil
Authors: Zi Zhi-Da , Wen Wen , Ma Fu , Li Wei , Wang Zhao-Xuan , Lu Jun , Lv Jie
Published: January 2022

Strain WGZ8T was isolated from a soil sample of Puerh tea garden in Puer city, Southwest China. The isolate was rod-shaped, Gram-stain negative, aerobic, non-motile. Growth occurred within 0-3.0% (w/v) NaCl (optimal concentration, 0-1.0%), pH 5.0-11.0 (optimal pH, 7.0) and 10-40°C (optimal temperature, 28°C). 16S rRNA gene sequences based phylogenetic and phylogenomic analysis revealed that WGZ8T belonged to the genus Microvirga. Its major cellular fatty acids were C19:0 cyclo ω8c, C16:0, C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c. The profile of polar lipids included phosphatidyldimethylethanolamine, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidyl-glycerol. The only respiratory quinone was detected as ubiquinone 10 (Q-10). The genome size of strain WGZ8T was 5.17MB, and the content of DNA G+C was 61%. Based on the results of digital DNA-DNA hybridization and phenotypic results, strain WGZ8T could be concluded as a novel species of the genus Microvirga, for which the name Microvirga puerhi sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is WGZ8T (=CGMCC 1.19171T=JCM XXXXT).
Porous Cellulose-Collagen Scaffolds For Soft Tissue Regeneration: Influence of Cellulose Derivatives On Mechanical Properties And Compatibility With Adipose-Derived Stem Cells.
Authors: Kacvinská Katarína , Trávničková Martina , Vojtová Lucy , Poláček Petr , Dorazilová Jana , Kohoutek Martin , Pajorová Júlia , Tirpáková Mária , Bačáková Lucie
Published: January 2022

This study deals with cellulose derivatives in relation to the collagen fibrils in composite collagen-cellulose scaffolds for soft tissue engineering. Two types of cellulose, i.e., oxidized cellulose (OC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), were blended with collagen (Col) to enhance its elasticity, stability and sorptive biological properties, e.g. hemostatic and antibacterial features. The addition of OC supported the resistivity of the Col fibrils in a dry environment, while in a moist environment OC caused a radical drop. The addition of CMC reduced the mechanical strength of the Col fibrils in both environments. The elongation of the Col fibrils was increased by both types of cellulose derivatives in both environments, which is closely related to tissue like behaviour. In these various mechanical environments, the ability of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) to adhere and proliferate was significantly greater in the Col and Col/OC scaffolds than in the Col/CMC scaffold. This is explained by deficient mechanical support and loss of stiffness due to the high swelling capacity of CMC. Although Col/OC and Col/CMC acted differently in terms of mechanical properties, both materials were observed to be cytocompatible, with varying degrees of further support for cell adhesion and proliferation. While Col/OC can serve as a scaffolding material for vascular tissue engineering and for skin tissue engineering, Col/CMC seems to be more suitable for moist wound healing, e.g. as a mucoadhesive gel for exudate removal, since there was almost no cell adhesion.
Survey of Opioid-Induced Respiratory Depression in Critically Ill Patients Without Mechanical Ventilation and Construction of a Risk Nomogram
Authors: Sha Tong , Xuan Jiabin , Li Lulan , Wu Jie , Chen Kerong , Huang Qiaobing , Hu Hongbin , Zhang Yuan , Chen Zhongqing , Zeng Zhenhua
Published: January 2022

Objectives
To investigate the current status of opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) and potential risk factors in critically ill patients without mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit (ICU) and to construct a risk nomogram to predict OIRD.
Methods
A total of 103 patients without (or who were weaned from) mechanical ventilation who had stayed for more than 24 h in the ICU between June 1, 2021 and September 31, 2021, were included. Patient data, including respiratory depression events, were recorded. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression model were used to select features that were then used to construct a prediction model by multivariate logistic regression analysis. A nomogram was established for the risk of respiratory depression events in patients without mechanical ventilation. The discriminatory performance and calibration of the nomogram were assessed with Harrell’s concordance index and a calibration plot, respectively, and a bootstrap procedure was used for internal validation.
Results
Respiratory depression was diagnosed in 49/103 (47.6%) patients. Factors included in the nomogram were cardiopulmonary disease (odds ratio [OR]=5.569, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.751–118.083), respiratory disease (OR=32.833, 95% CI=4.189–725.164), sepsis (OR=6.898, 95% CI=1.756–33.000), duration of mechanical ventilation (OR=3.019, 95% CI=0.862–11.322), lack of mechanical ventilation (OR=20.757, 95% CI=2.409–502.222), and oxygenation index (OR=7.350, 95% CI=2.483–24.286). The nomogram showed good performance for predicting respiratory depression events in critically ill patients without mechanical ventilation.
Conclusion
The nomogram can be used to identify ICU patients without mechanical ventilation who are at risk of opioid-induced respiratory depression and may therefore benefit from early intervention.
Draft Genome of Cochliopodium minus (Amoebozoa): Insights into Its Complex Sexual Behavior, Across Domain Gene Acquisitions and Metazoan Type Signaling
Authors: Tekle Yonas I. , Wang Fang , Tran Hanh , Hayes T. Danielle , Ryan Joseph F.
Published: January 2022

To date, genomic analyses in amoebozoans have been mostly limited to model organisms or medically important lineages. Consequently, the vast diversity of Amoebozoa genomes remain unexplored. A draft genome of Cochliopodium minus, an amoeba characterized by extensive cellular and nuclear fusions, is presented. C. minus has been a subject of recent investigation for its unusual sexual behavior. Cochliopodium’s sexual activity occurs during vegetative stage making it an ideal model for studying sexual development, which is sorely lacking in the group. Here we generate a C. minus draft genome assembly. From this genome, we detect a substantial number of lateral gene transfer (LGT) instances from bacteria (15%), archaea (0.9%) and viruses (0.7%) the majority of which are detected in our transcriptome data. We identify the complete meiosis toolkit genes in the C. minus genome, as well as the absence of several key genes involved in plasmogamy and karyogamy. Comparative genomics of amoebozoans reveals variation in sexual mechanism exist in the group. Similar to complex eukaryotes, C. minus (some amoebae) possesses Tyrosine kinases and duplicate copies of SPO11. We report a first example of alternative splicing in a key meiosis gene and draw important insights on molecular mechanism of sex in C. minus using genomic and transcriptomic data.
Evidence for Shared Neural Information Between Muscle Synergies and Corticospinal Efficacy
Authors: Young David R. , Banks Caitlin L. , McGuirk Theresa E. , Patten Carolynn
Published: January 2022

Stroke survivors often exhibit gait dysfunction which compromises self-efficacy and quality of life. Muscle Synergy Analysis (MSA), derived from electromyography (EMG), has been argued as a method to quantify the complexity of descending motor commands and serve as a direct correlate of neural function. However, controversy remains regarding this interpretation, specifically attribution of MSA as a neuromarker. Here we sought to determine the relationship between MSA and accepted neurophysiological parameters of motor efficacy in healthy controls, high (HFH) and low (LFH) functioning stroke survivors. Surface EMG was collected from twenty-four participants while walking at their self-selected speed. Concurrently, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was administered, during walking, to elicit motor evoked potentials (MEPs) in the plantarflexor muscles during the pre-swing phase of gait. MSA was able to differentiate control and LFH individuals. Conversely, motor neurophysiological parameters including soleus MEP area, revealed that MEP latency differentiated control and HFH individuals. Significant correlations were revealed between MSA and motor neurophysiological parameters adding evidence to our understanding of MSA as a correlate of neural function and highlighting the utility of combining MSA with other relevant outcomes to aid interpretation of this analysis technique.
Adsorption of Anionic Dye Onto ZSM-5 Zeolite-based Bio Membrane: Characterizations, Kinetics and Adsorption Isotherm
Authors: Radoor Sabarish , Karayil Jasila , Jayakumar Aswathy , Parameswaranpillai Jyotishkumar , Lee Jaewoo , Shivanna Jyothi Mannekote , Nithya Rajarathinam , Siengchin Suchart
Published: January 2022

In this study, we report polyvinyl alcohol/carboxymethyl cellulose/gelatin/ZSM-5 zeolite (PVA/CMC/GEL/ZSM-5) membrane for anionic dye (rhodamine B, Rh B) removal from aqueous solution. The prepared membrane was characterized using different techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy (OM), universal testing machine (UTM) and water contact angle respectively. XRD, FT-IR and SEM analysis indicates successful incorporation of zeolite into PVA/CMC/GEL membrane. The improved hydrophobicity of the zeolite loaded membrane was confirmed by contact angle analysis. The Rh B removal efficiency of zeolite loaded PVA/CMC/GEL membrane was investigated through batch adsorption technique. The effect of different parameters such as initial dye concentration, zeolite dosage, contact time, temperature and pH on the adsorption was examined. Rh B dye adsorption onto the membrane followed Freundlich isotherm model. The kinetic studies revealed that Rh B dye adsorption on the membrane could be explained using pseudo-second-order model. Finally, the recyclability test revealed that the membrane exhibits good recycle efficiency and is stable after 6 recycle.
Indian Ocean Dynamic Sea Level, Variability And Projections In CMIP6 Models
Authors: Chatterjee Abhisek , K Sajidh C
Published: January 2022

The regional sea level variability and its projection amidst the global sea level rise is one of the major concerns for coastal communities. The dynamic sea level plays a major role in the observed spatial deviations in regional sea level rise from the global mean. The present study evaluates 27 climate model simulations from the sixth phase of the coupled model intercomparison project (CMIP6) for their representation of the historical mean states, variability and future projections for the Indian Ocean. Most models reproduce the observed mean state of the dynamic sea level realistically, however consistent positive bias is evident across the latitudinal range of the Indian Ocean. The strongest sea level bias is seen along the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) regime owing to the stronger than observed south Indian Ocean westerlies and its equatorward bias. Further, this equatorward shift of the wind field resulted in stronger positive windstress curl across the southeasterly trade winds in the southern tropical basin and easterly wind bias along the equatorial waveguide. These anomalous easterly equatorial winds cause upwelling in the eastern part of the basin and keeps the thermocline shallower in the model than observed, resulted in enhanced variability for the dipole zonal mode or Indian Ocean dipole in the tropics. In the north Indian Ocean, the summer monsoon winds are weak in the model causing weaker upwelling and positive sea level bias along the western Arabian Sea. The high-resolution models compare better in simulating the sea level variability, particularly in the eddy dominated regions like the ACC regime in interannual timescale. However, these improved variabilities do not necessarily produce a better mean state likely due to the enhanced mixing driven by parametrizations set in these high-resolution models. Finally, the overall pattern of the projected dynamic sea level rise is found to be similar for the mid (SSP2-4.5) and high-end (SSP5-8.5) scenarios, except that the magnitude is higher under the high emission situation. Notably, the projected dynamic sea level change is found to be milder when only the best performing models are used compared to the full ensemble.
Characteristics of Soil Bacterial Community in the Decomposition Process Inside and Outside Moso Bamboo Stumps
Authors: Liang Fengna , Huang Xiao , Zheng Huixin , Ma Xiangqing , Huang Yonglai , Sun Na , Qin Xuelong , Jin Cheng , Yu Le , Cai Liping
Published: January 2022

Purpose: Soil bacteria comprise the largest number of soil microorganisms and play an important role in moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) stump decay; however, the characteristics of soil bacterial communities inside and outside these stumps remain unclear. Methods: The characteristics of soil bacterial communities inside and outside Phyllostachys edulis bamboo stumps were analyzed under three different levels of decay using high-throughput sequencing technology. Results: The abundance of operational taxonomic units inside and outside the bamboo stumps increased as the decay progressed; Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes, and Verrucomicrobia were the most abundant phyla in the soil inside and outside the bamboo stumps. In the outside bamboo stumps, there was a very significant positive correlation of Acidobacteria and Planctomycetes with the decaying degree of bamboo stumps. At the class level, Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Planctomycetacia were the most abundant bacteria in the bamboo stumps. Inside the stumps, the decaying degree of bamboo stumps was significantly positively correlated with Alphaproteobacteria and significantly negatively correlated with Gammaproteobacteria and Bacilli. Principal component analysis and the heat map analysis at the genus level indicated similarities among soil bacterial communities inside the moderately and severely decayed bamboo stumps and among the communities outside the mildly and moderately decayed bamboo stumps. Conclusion: Our results augment our understanding of the expeditious degradation process of bamboo stumps, and provide a theoretical basis and reference for microbiological research, sustainable bamboo stump operations, and degradation methods of bamboo forests.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions on Physical Activity and Psychological Characteristics of the Iranian People
Authors: Saemi Esmaeel , Nobari Hadi , Badicu Georgian , Ghazizadeh Habibollah , Pashabadi Ali , Imani Fatemeh , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Silva Ana Filipa , Afrash Sana
Published: January 2022

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on physical activity behaviours, as well as on mental health indicators among Iranian residents. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 335 participants were included (155 males, mean age = 30.06 ± 14.58 years). The eligibility criteria for this study were as follows; 1- Having at least 10 years of age. 2- Having a minimum literacy rate 3- Ability to work with networks of smart communication devices such as smartphones and computers 4- Living in Iran for the past 5 years. Participants were selected through the convenience sampling and filled out an online questionnaire measuring physical activity behaviours (The International Physical Activity Questionnaire; IPAQ; Short Form) and two mental health indicators – self-esteem (Rosenberg self-esteem scale) and social physical anxiety (7-items social physique anxiety scale). ResultsThe results of Wilcoxon test showed that participants reported significant differences from before to during the pandemic in all three variables of physical activity (significant decreases), self-esteem (significant decreases), and social physical anxiety (significant increases). This difference was found, regardless of participants’ gender. The results of Spearman correlation test between changes in physical activity and changes in mental health indicators showed that COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted self-esteem and social physical anxiety. However, we have not found any significant association of physical activity’s change with social physical anxiety or self-esteem’s changes before and during the pandemic. ConclusionsIn sum, the findings of the present study indicate a detrimental effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical activity and mental health among Iranian’s residents. Public policies aiming to buffer the negative impact on COVID-19 Iranians’ health are urgently needed.