bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A machine learning model to predict critical care outcomes in patient with chest pain visiting the emergency department
Authors: Wu Ting Ting , Zheng Ruo Fei , Lin Zhi Zhong , Gong Hai Rong , Li Hong
Published: April 2021

Background: Currently, the risk stratification of critically ill patient with chest pain is a challenge. We aimed to use machine learning approach to predict the critical care outcomes in patients with chest pain, and simultaneously compared its performance with the HEART score. Methods: This was a retrospective, case-control study in patients with acute non-traumatic chest pain who presented to the emergency department (ED) between January 2017 and December 2019. The outcomes included cardiac arrest, transfer to ICU, and death during treatment in ED. In the randomly sampled training set (70%), a LASSO regression model was developed, and presented with nomogram. The performance was measured in both training set (70% participants) and testing set (30% participants), and findings were compared with the HEART score.Results: We proposed a LASSO regression model incorporating mode of arrival, reperfusion therapy, Killip class, systolic BP, SCr, CKMB, and BNP as independent predictors of critical care outcomes in patients with chest pain. Our model significantly outperformed the HEART score with AUC of 0.953 (95%CI: 0.922 - 0.984) and 0.754 (95%CI: 0.675 - 0.832), respectively. Consistently, our model demonstrated better outcomes regarding the metrics of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and F1 score. Similarly, the decision curve analysis elucidated a greater net benefit of our model over the full ranges of clinical thresholds.Conclusion: We present a promising model for predicting the critical care outcomes in patients with chest pain, and provide substantial support to its application as a decision-making tool in ED.
Predictive determinants of overall survival among re-infected COVID-19 patients using the elastic-net regularized Cox proportional hazards model: a machine-learning algorithm
Authors: Ebrahimi Vahid , Sharifi Mehrdad , Mousavi-Roknabadi Razieh Sadat , Sadegh Robab , Khademian Mohammad Hossein , Moghadami Mohsen , Dehbozorgi Afsaneh
Published: April 2021

Background: Narrowing a large set of features to a smaller one can improve our understanding of the main risk factors for in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19. This study aimed to derive a parsimonious model for predicting overall survival (OS) among re-infected COVID-19 patients using machine-learning (ML) algorithms.Methods: The retrospective data of 283 re-infected COVID-19 patients admitted to twenty-six medical centers (affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences) from 10 June to 26 December 2020 were reviewed and analyzed. An elastic-net regularized Cox proportional hazards (PH) regression and model approximation via backward elimination were utilized to optimize a predictive model of time to in-hospital death. Then, the model was reduced to its core features to maximize simplicity and generalizability.Results: The empirical in-hospital mortality rate among the re-infected COVID-19 patients was obtained as 9.5%. In addition, the mortality rate among the intubated patients was 83.5%. Using the Kaplan-Meier approach, the OS (95% CI) rates for days 7, 14, and 21 were 87.5% (81.6-91.6%), 78.3% (65.0-87.0%), and 52.2% (20.3-76.7%), respectively. The elastic-net Cox PH regression retained 8 out of 35 candidate features of death. Transfer by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) (HR=3.90, 95% CI: 1.63-9.48), SpO2≤85% (HR=8.10, 95% CI: 2.97-22.00), increased serum creatinine (HR=1.85, 95% CI: 1.48-2.30), and increased white blood cells (WBC) count (HR=1.10, 95% CI: 1.03-1.15) were associated with higher in-hospital mortality rates in the re-infected COVID-19 patients.Conclusion: The results of the ML analysis demonstrated that transfer by EMS, profound hypoxemia (SpO2≤85%), increased serum creatinine (more than 1.6 mg/dL), and increased WBC count (more than 8.5 (×109 cells/L)) reduced the OS of the re-infected COVID-19 patients.
Multimodal Primary Open Angle Glaucoma Early Diagnosing Program Based on Clinical Process
Authors: Ma Jingyi , Lv Bin , Li Yuanyuan , Fan Pan , Zhao Xu , Yuan Huiping , Zhang Yingtao
Published: April 2021

Background: Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blinding disease. Early detection can improve patients’ quality of vision. Effectively identifying primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) using structural and functional examination is critical. Computer aided diagnosis of glaucoma requires multimodal data to find an accurate model for early glaucoma diagnosis. Methods: This study collected 87 early POAG eyes, 85 suspected POAG eyes, and 129 healthy eyes from the ophthalmology department at Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University. Retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLt), intraocular pressure (IOP) value, visual field examination parameters and age were obtained. A powerful deep learning network segmented the FP and extracted optic nerve head (ONH) features. Machine learning classifiers (MLCs) were adopted to get the final classification results and compared with the diagnosis results of glaucoma specialists and general non-glaucoma ophthalmologists. Result: The program diagnosing early POAG, suspected POAG, and healthy eyes made overall Area Under the Curve of 0.97. Dice of optic disc and optic cup segmentation is 0.9631, 0.8435 respectively. Accuracy of the program (0.9004) is higher than general ophthalmologists (0.8195). Specificity of the program (0.9635) is higher than glaucoma specialists (0.9366).Conclusions: The program delivers superior results in diagnosing early POAG. This study’s hybrid deep learning-machine learning framework can assist with clinical decision for early POAG effectively.
Robust Decadal Variations in ENSO Diversity, and its Impact on Future Scenarios
Authors: Dieppois Bastien , Capotondi Antonietta , Pohl Benjamin , Chun Kwok , Monerie Paul-Arthur , Eden Jonathan
Published: April 2021

El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) shows a large diversity of events, whose modulation by climate variability and change, and their representation in climate models, limit our ability to predict their impact on ecosystems and human livelihood. Here, we introduce a new framework to analysze probabilistic changes in event-location and -intensity, which overcomes existing limitations in studying ENSO diversity. We find robust decadal variations in event intensities and locations in century-long observational datasets, which are associated with perturbations in equatorial wind-stress and thermocline depth, as well as extra-tropical anomalies in the North and South Pacific. A large fraction of CMIP5 and CMIP6 models appear capable of simulating such decadal variability in ENSO diversity, and the associated large-scale patterns. Projections of ENSO diversity in future climate change scenarios strongly depend on the magnitude of decadal variations, and the ability of climate models to reproduce them realistically over the 21st century.
Identifying Associations Between Health Services Operational Factors and Health Experience for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in Iran
Authors: Mahdavi Mahdi , Parsaeian Mahboubeh , Borzuei Shiva , Majdzadeh Reza
Published: April 2021

Background. Facing limited health resources, healthcare providers need to rely on health service delivery models that produce the best clinical outcomes and patient experience. We aimed to contribute to developing a patient experience-based type 2 diabetes service delivery model by identifying operational structures and processes of care that were associated with clinical outcome, health experience, and service experience. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of type 2 diabetes patients between Jan 2019 to Feb 2020. Having adjusted for demand variables, we examined relationships between independent variables (behaviors, services/processes, and structures) and three categories of dependent variables; clinical outcomes (HbA1c and fasting blood glucose), health experience (EuroQol quality of life (EQ-5D), evaluation of quality of life (visual analgene scale of EQ-5D), and satisfaction with overall health status), and service experience (evaluation of diabetes services in comparison with worst and best imaginable diabetes services and satisfaction with diabetes services). We analysed data using multivariate linear regression models. Results. After adjusting for demand variables; structures, diabetes-specific health behaviours, and processes explained up to 22%, 12%, and 9% of variance in the outcomes, respectively. Based on significant associations between the diabetes service operations and outcomes, the components of an experience-based service delivery model included the structural elements (continuity of care, redistribution of task to low-cost resources, and improved access to provider), behaviours (improved patient awareness and adherence), and process elements (reduced variation in service utilization, increased responsiveness, caring, comprehensiveness of care, and shared decision-making). Conclusions. Based on the extent of explained variance and identified significant variables, health services operational factors that determine patient reported outcomes for patients with type 2 diabetes in Iran were identified, which focus on improving continuity of care and access to providers at the first place, improving adherence to care at the second, and various operational process variables at the third place.
Duration of Infectious Virus Shedding in Patients With Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 Who Required Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Nomura Toshihito , Kitagawa Hiroki , Omori Keitaro , Shigemoto Norifumi , Kakimoto Masaki , Nazmul Tanuza , Shime Nobuaki , Sakaguchi Takemasa , Ohge Hiroki
Published: April 2021

Approximately 5% of patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 develop severe COVID-19. Severe COVID-19 requires respiratory management with mechanical ventilation and an extended period of treatment. Prolonged infectious virus shedding is a concern in severe COVID-19 cases, but few reports have examined the duration of infectious virus shedding. Therefore, we investigated the duration of infectious virus shedding in patients transferred to Hiroshima University Hospital with severe COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation. Nasopharyngeal swab specimens were collected and analyzed using both viral culture and reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) tests between December 2020 and February 2021. Of the 23 patients tested, the proportions of those with positive test results at first specimen collection on RT-qPCR and viral culture tests were 95·7% and 30·4%, respectively. All six patients with positive viral culture test results who were followed-up tested negative 24 days after symptom onset but remained positive on RT-qPCR. The longest negative conversion time was observed in a dialysis patient on immunosuppressive drugs. This study indicated that patients with severe COVID-19 remain culture positive for ≥ 10 days after symptom onset. Additionally, immunosuppressed patients with severe COVID-19 could consider isolation for ≥ 20 days.
Antibacterial and Anticancer Efficacy of Different Parts of Pistacia Integerrima Plant Extracts
Authors: Rani Wajeeha , Maqbool Farhana , Bhatti Zulfiqar A. , Iqbal Jamshed , Siddiqui Muhammad Faisal , Pervez Sidra , Kalsoom Umm-e- , Khan Ibrar
Published: April 2021

This study explored the antibacterial efficacy of Pistacia integerrima gall, leaf and bark in different solvents. Extracts of these parts prepared in ethanol, methanol and distilled water by using rotary evaporator. To check the antibacterial potential of this plant, minimal inhibitory concentrations of each extract analysed by agar well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For anticancer activity, hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions of P. integerrima gall, leaf and bark used against human cervical cancer (HeLa) and baby hamster kidney (BHK–21) cell lines. Results showed that maximum zone of inhibition 25mm formed with ethanolic gall extract in 200µL concentration against B. subtilis. P. vulgaris shows resistance to methanol and aqueous extracts but inhibited with ethanolic leaf extract. Among different parts of P. integerrima, n-hexane leaf fraction shown to be most effective against HeLa cell lines with IC50 of 7.45 µg/mL. In case of BHK-21, highest cell inhibition of 46.8% observed with crude leaf extract than ethyl-acetate bark extract (44.9%) of P. integerrima. It is concluded that the effective inhibitor was hexane leaf fraction against HeLa cell lines in which Heneicosane was found (39.7%) which might be responsible for anticancer activity.
Mass Media Exposure and Timing of Antenatal Care Initiation among Women in Uganda
Authors: Sserwanja Quraish , Mutisya Linet M. , Musaba Milton W.
Published: April 2021

Background : Early initiation of quality antenatal (ANC) in the first trimester and received quality care are highly emphasized by WHO in the new 2016 guidelines. Mass media have the potential to promote early initiation of ANC because they have been used successfully in several programmes. However, there is a paucity of literature on the impact of media exposure on the timing of ANC initiation in Uganda. Hence our study aimed at exploring associations between the different mass media exposure and timing of antenatal care initiation among women in Uganda.Methods : A cross sectional study was conducted using the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) 2016 weighted data of 10,152 women of reproductive age (15–49 years). Multistage stratified sampling was used to select study participants. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between mass media exposure and early initiation of antenatal care. All our analyses were done using SPSS version 25.Results : Almost a third of the women (2953/10,152, 29.1%, 95% CI: 27.9-29.6) initiated their first ANC contact in the first trimester. In the final multivariable analyses, exposure to television (TV) and radio, belonging to the Northern and Western regions, younger age and less household size each had a significant positive association with earlier ANC initiation while lower education attainment had an inverse association. Women who were exposed to TV (adjusted OR (AOR 1.19, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.38) and radio (AOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.29) were 19% and 14% more likely to initiate ANC earlier compared to those who were not exposed to TV and radio respectively.Conclusion : In Uganda, less than a third of women initiated ANC in the first trimester. Young women from a smaller household with access to either a radio or television, and residing in Northern and Western regions were more likely to initiate ANC early enough. In order to promote early initiation of ANC, the government needs to intensify mass media campaigns on local media houses that promote this practice.
An Age-Period-Cohort And Joinpoint Analysis Of Colorectal Cancer Incidence Trends in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam(1996-2015)
Authors: Pham Dung X. , Phung An HT. , Bui Tung D. , Mai Linh D. , Tran Thach S. , Ho-Pham Lan T. , Nguyen Tuan V. , Nguyen Hien D.
Published: April 2021

BackgroundLittle is known about the recent trends in colorectal cancer (CRC) in Vietnam.MethodsBased on the Ho Chi Minh City Cancer Registry data during 1996-2015, we calculated the annual rate of change (ARC) using Joinpoint regression analysis and performed the age-period-cohort (APC) analysis using the United States National Cancer Institute’s web-based statistical tool.ResultsDuring 1996-2015, the overall age-standardized incidence rate of CRC increased from 10.5 to 17.9 per 100,000. CRC incidence elevated more rapidly in men (ARC = 4.7, 95% CI: 2.2–7.3) than women (ARC = 2.6, 95% CI: 0.6–4.8). The highest and lowest increasing ASR observed in the 50-64 years old group (ARC = 5.3, 95% CI: 2.8–7.9) and <50 years old group (ARC = 1.1, 95% CI: -0.7 - 2.9), respectively. Regarding subsites, rectal cancer had the highest rate increase (ARC = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.0-5.7). Furthermore, the APC analysis indicated significant increases in CRC incidence of recent birth cohorts from 1976-1980 in either gender.ConclusionsThe CRC incidence in Ho Chi Minh City increased with the more prominent rising rates among men, older people, and rectal subsites. This study’s result implied the need of launching a population-based CRC screening program in Ho Chi Minh City.
Sensitive Potential Prognostic Markers for Colorectal Cancer Surgery Screened by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS Combined With Metabolomics Technology: UDP-D-Galactose
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Sun Lu , Zhao Zhenying , Zhang Weihua , Zhao Lizhong , Xu Chen , Li Yuwei , Yu Yongjun , Chen Chao , Li Mingsen , Zhang Xipeng , Dong Linyi
Published: April 2021

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor, it is necessary to conduct in-depth research on the pathogenesis, early diagnosis, and prognosis evaluation. The assessment of postoperative prognosis is beneficial to the accurate treatment for patients. Metabolomics can explore the metabolic changes in the process of cancer, to find new markers that can be used for early diagnosis of cancer and evaluation of efficacy. Method: In this study, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography quarter time of fly mass spectrometer (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) technology was used to screen the metabolomics markers of blood samples from 24 CRC patients who underwent surgery and 24 healthy people. To verify the potential markers found above, At the same time, 8 CRC patients and normal control group were included. Results: UDP-D-galactose, which shown significant concentration changed 2 ~ 3 days after surgery was screened after statistical analysis. Moreover, the analysis of metabolic pathways in tissue samples also fully verified the correlation between UDP-D-galactose and CRC. Conclusion: UPLC-Q-TOF-MS is a practical method for screening metabolic markers. Accurate monitoring the concentration of UDP-D-galactose in blood can provide important assistance for the treatment of CRC patients.
Non-invasive sampling of bats reflects their potential as ecological indicators of heavy metal and trace metal contamination due to open cast diamond mining, northern Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Toussaint Dawn Cory , Taylor Peter J. , Barnhoorn Irene E. J.
Published: April 2021

Bats have been proposed as reliable bioindicators for monitoring bioaccumulation of elements and chemicals in natural and transformed ecosystems. Non-invasive methods are becoming more popular as research moves away from destructive methodologies. We present the first concentrations of 23 elements in Mops condylurus and Tadarida aegyptiaca (Molossidae) fur and blood from an opencast diamond mine and control site using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Concentrations of boron (B), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb) and cadmium (Cd) in the fur of bats were significantly higher in bats from the opencast diamond mine compared with the control site (P = 0.004, 0.02, 0.006 and 0.03 respectively). Manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), antimony (Sb) and mercury (Hg) were significantly higher in the blood of bats from the mining footprint than the control area. Fifteen of the 22 elements (excluding barium (Ba)) were significantly higher in the fur samples than in the blood due to elements being incorporated over time into the fur as it grows, whereas blood reveals short-term exposure to elements. Concentrations of most of the elements were reasonably low except Al, Fe and Zn. In general, the element concentrations particularly in the fur samples were comparable with other international studies reporting elemental fur concentrations from anthropogenically impacted and natural areas. Pending further research on toxic thresholds and physiological and ecological unknowns around element concentrations in bat tissues and organs, fur has the potential to be a viable indicator of toxicity.
Scalable and Secure Gradient Smart Dempster Shafer Reputation for Development of Smart Cities
Authors: Ayothi Senthilselvi , Johnson Shiny Duela , Sekaran Ramesh , Sankareshwaran Senthil Pandi , Ramachandran Manikandan , Bhaskar Vidhyacharan
Published: April 2021

Over the last decade, blockchain has been considered an encouraging solution to secure distributed ledgers. Moreover, with the introduction of a pseudonymous payment method without a centralized database or authoritative person, blockchain has also evolved as the future generation for online payment system. However, with the eruption of a large scale database, scalability has also become a demanding issue. In addition to the obstacle mentioned above, challenges like security and scalability stop accelerated adjustments for the development of smart cities. Without directing this essential scalability and privacy issue, such an encouraging method may not help develop smart cities. This paper bestows a measure to analyze both scalability and security aspects of existing blockchain methods with applications of smart city networks. The proposed method is known as Gradient Smart Load Balancer and Blockchain Dempster Shafer Reputation (GSLB-BDSR). Gradient Smart Load Balancer is designed so that even though with the increase in the number of participating sensors, the load is said to balance by applying gradient function, therefore ensuring scalability. Next, to cover the security aspect, with the aid of scalable blocks in the blockchain network, a Blockchain Dempster Shafer Reputation model is proposed. Evaluation outcomes of proposed security solutions outperform conventional solutions.
A First Trimester Prediction Model for Large for Gestational Age Infants: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Monari Francesca , Menichini Daniela , Bascio Ludovica Spano’ , Grandi Giovanni , Banchelli Federico , Neri Isabella , D’Amico Roberto , Facchinetti Fabio
Published: April 2021

Background: Large for gestational age infants (LGA) have increased risks of adverse short-term perinatal outcomes. This study aims to develop a multivariable prediction model for the risk of giving birth to a LGA baby, by using biochemical, biophysical, anamnestic, and clinical maternal characteristics available at first trimester.Methods: Prospective study that included all singleton pregnancies attending the first trimester aneuploidy screening at the Obstetric Unit of the University Hospital of Modena, in Northern Italy, between June 2018 and December 2019. Results: A total of 503 consecutive women were included in the analysis. The final prediction model for LGA, included multiparity (OR = 2.8, 95%; CI: 1.6 - 4.9, p=0.001), pre-pregnancy BMI (OR = 1.08. 95% CI 1.03 – 1.14, p=0,002) and PAPP-A MoM (OR = 1.43 95% CI 1.08 – 1.90, p=0.013). The area under the ROC curve was 70.5%, indicating a satisfactory predictive accuracy. The best predictive cut-off for this score was equal to -1.378, which corresponds to a 20.1% probability of having a LGA infant. By using such a cut-off, the risk of LGA can be predicted in our sample with sensitivity of 55.2% and specificity of 79.0%.Conclusion: At first trimester, a model including multiparity, pre-pregnancy BMI and PAPP-A satisfactory predicted the risk of giving birth to a LGA infant. This promising tool, once applied early in pregnancy, would identify women for targeted interventions.Trial registration: NCT04838431
Simulink implementation of a new optoelectronic integrated circuit: Stability analysis and infinite-scroll attractor
Authors: Essebe Eba David , Mengue A. D. , Essimbi B. Z.
Published: April 2021

In this paper a 6-D optoelectronic system consists of a resonant tunneling diode (RTD) driven by an optical injected semiconductor laser (LD) is reported. A stability analysis of the hybrid system is analytically and numerically performed and paramount role of the effective gain coefficient (EGC) is stuck out in the framework of new stability control. As a result, this parameter allows improving the accuracy of the stability study by circumscribing locked and unlocked regions. Besides, a narrow area of stability is pointed up within the sea of unstable points from which a complex fractal attractor so-called infinite-scroll attractor is highligted. Thereby, Simulink shows generation effectiveness of infinite-scroll attractor erratically interpersed by laminar phases. Also dynamics of Lyapunov exponents has confirmed that it refers to a strange fractal attractor. Moreover chaos control is structurally carried out by direct current (DC) polarisation.
A Distinct Negative Leader Propagation Mode
Authors: Scholten O. , Hare B. M. , Dwyer J. , Liu N. , Sterpka C. , Kolmašová I. , Santolík O. , Lán R. , Uhlíř L. , Buitink S. , Corstanje A. , Falcke H. , Huege T. , Hörandel J. R. , Krampah G. K. , Mitra P. , Mulrey K. , Nelles A. , Pandya H. , Rachen J.P. , Trinh T.N.G. , Veen S. ter , Thoudam S. , Winchen T.
Published: April 2021

The common phenomenon of lightning still harbors many secrets such as what are the conditions for lightning initiation and what is driving the discharge to propagate over several tens of kilometers through the atmosphere forming conducting ionized channels called leaders. Since lightning is an electric discharge phenomenon, there are positively and negatively charged leaders. In this work we report on measurements made with the LOFAR radio telescope, an instrument primarily build for radio-astronomy observations. It is observed that a negative leader rather suddenly changes, for a few milliseconds, into a mode where it radiates 100 times more VHF power than typical negative leaders after which it spawns a large number of more typical negative leaders.This mode occurs during the initial stage, soon after initiation, of all lightning flashes we have mapped (about 25). For some flashes this mode occurs also well after initiation and we show one case where it is triggered twice, some 100 ms apart.We postulate that this is indicative of a small (order of 5 km2) high charge pocket.Lightning thus appears to be initiated exclusively in the vicinity of such a small but dense charge pocket.
Multi-Tissue Transcriptome Analysis of Two Begonia Species Reveals Dynamic Patterns of Expression Evolution In The Chalcone Synthase Gene Family
Authors: Emelianova Katie , Martínez Andrea Martínez , Campos-Dominguez Lucia , Kidner Catherine
Published: April 2021

Begonia is an important horticultural plant, as well as one of the most speciose Angiosperm genera, with over 2000 described species. Genus wide studies of genome size have shown that Begonia has a highly variable genome size, and analysis of paralog pairs has previously suggested that Begonia underwent a whole genome duplication. We address the contribution of gene duplication to the generation of diversity in Begonia using a multi-tissue RNA-seq approach. We chose to focus on the chalcone synthase (CHS) gene family due to its role in biotic and abiotic stress response, and in particular its importance in maximising the use of variable light levels in tropical plants. We used RNA-seq to sample six tissues across two closely related but ecologically and morphologically divergent species, Begonia conchifolia and B. plebeja, yielding 17,012 and 19,969 annotated unigenes respectively. We identified the chalcone synthase gene family members in our Begonia study species, as well as in Hillebrandia sandwicensis, the monotypic sister genus to Begonia, Cucumis sativus, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Zea mays. Phylogenetic and expression analysis revealed the recent origin of CHS duplicates in Begonia, which showed both conserved and divergent expression profiles between duplicates. We conclude that there is evidence for a role of gene duplication in generating diversity through expression divergence in Begonia.
Insilco Analysis of Leishmania donovani Genome to Understand its Gene Expression Regulation
Authors: Jote Kefiyalew , Kebede Mulugeta , Milkessa Ashenafi
Published: April 2021

Leishmania donovani is an obligate intracellular parasite of human that causes a dreadful visceral infection that may involve liver, spleen, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. The specific feature of the species influences its genetics. Changes in parasite adaptation to different environment, development of silent genes and parasite progression through its lifecycle may be determined by transcriptional organizations affecting its gene expression. Hence, Insilco analysis of Leishmania donovani BPK282A1 genome was performed to predict the promoter and regulatory elements involved in gene expression. Forty putative genes of Leishmania donovani BPK282A1 genes were obtained from National Center for Biotechnology Information and investigated using bioinformatic tools, such as Neural Network Promoter Prediction, MEME suite, CpG island finder, GOMo and CLC Genomics Workbench. In this analysis, the number of Transcription Start Sites (TSSs) in promoter regions of Leishmania donovani BPK282A1 varied greatly between 1 and 4 with majority (60%) of them having two or more TSSs. The study also revealed seven candidate motifs in the promoter regions of the gene. The common promoter motif for all Leishmania donovani BPK282A1 genes was MI with an E-value of 4.0e-116. Six of the identified motifs were related to zinc finger proteins that bind to the GC-rich regions in DNA. The study also revealed that most of both the promoter and the gene body regions contain at least one CpG island. Restriction analysis using MspI enzyme showed that Leishmania donovani BPK282A1 genes were CpG rich. In conclusion, the investigation unfolded expression regulation of Leishmania donovani BPK282A1 genes contributing to development of a robust drug and vaccine that targets the regulatory regions.
Anopheles Bionomics in a Malaria Endemic Area of Southern Thailand
Authors: Wamaket Narenrit , Khamprapa Oranicha , Chainarin Sittinont , Thamsawet Panisa , Ninsaeng Ubolrat , Thongsalee Suttipong , Suwan Veerast , Sakolvaree Jira , Takhampunya Ratree , Davidson Silas A. , McCardle Patrick W. , Mukaka Mavuto , Kiattibutr Kirakorn , Khamsiriwatchara Amnat , Nguitragool Wang , Sattabongkot Jetsumon , Sirichaisinthop Jeeraphat , Kobylinski Kevin
Published: April 2021

Background: Ivermectin mass drug administration (MDA) could accelerate malaria elimination in the Greater Mekong Subregion. This study was performed to characterize the bionomics of Anopheles in Surat Thani province, Thailand.Methods: Mosquitoes were collected via human landing collections, February - October of 2019. Anopheles were morphologically identified to species. Primary Anopheles malaria vectors were dissected to assess parity status and a subset evaluated for molecular identification and Plasmodium detection.Results: A total of 17,348 mosquitoes were collected. Of 5,777 Anopheles mosquitoes, 15 species were identified morphologically. The most abundant Anopheles were Anopheles minimus s.l. (87.87%, n = 5,035), Anopheles dirus s.l. (7.05%, n = 407), and Anopheles barbirostris s.l. (2.86%, n = 165). Molecular identification confirmed that of An. minimus s.l., 99.80% were An. minimus s.s. (n=484) and 0.2% An. aconitus (n = 1), of An. dirus s.l., 100% were An. baimaii (n = 348), and of An. maculatus s.l., 93.62% were An. maculatus s.s. (n = 44) and 6.38% An. sawadwongporni (n = 3). No Anopheles were Plasmodium positive (n = 879). An average of 11.46 Anopheles were captured per collector per night. There were differences between species in hour of collection (Kruskal-Wallis = 80.89, P < 0.0001, n = 5,666), with more An. barbirostris s.l. and An. maculatus s.l. caught earlier compared to An. minimus s.l. (P = 0.0001, P < 0.0001, respectively) and An. dirus s.l. (P = 0.0082, P < 0.001, respectively). The proportion of parous An. minimus s.l. captured by hour increased throughout the night (Wald Chi-square = 17.31, P=0.000, odds ratio = 1.0535 [1.0279 – 1.0796] 95% CI (n = 3,400). Overall, An. minimus s.l. parity was 67.68% (2,375/3,509) with an intra cluster correlation of 0.0378. A power calculation determined that an An. minimus s.l. parity reduction treatment effect size = 34%, with four clusters per treatment arm, a minimum of 300 mosquitoes dissected per cluster at an α= 0.05 will provide 82% power to detect a significant difference following ivermectin MDA. Conclusions: The study area in Surat Thani province is an ideal location to evaluate the impact of ivermectin MDA on An. minimus parity.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Novel Schiff Bases of Thiosemicarbazone Derivatives With Adamantane Moiety
Authors: Zhu Jiahui , Teng Guosheng , Li Dongfeng , Hou Ruibin , Xia Yan
Published: April 2021

Increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics is a major threat to human health, and it is particularly important to develop novel antibiotic drugs. Here, we designed a series of Schiff base thiosemicarbazone derivatives containing an adamantane moiety, and carried out structural characterization of the compounds and in vitro antibacterial activity tests. Compound 7e was as effective as the commonly-used antibiotic ampicillin against the Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli, and compound 7g had a good inhibitory effect against Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis. These findings provide data for the development of better thiosemicarbazone antibacterial agents.
Dissimilar welding of aluminum alloys 2024 T3 and 7075 T6 by TIG process with double tungsten electrodes
Authors: Kaba Liamine , Djeghlal Mohammed Elamine , Ouallam Seddik , Kahla Sami
Published: April 2021

The aim of this work is to study the metallurgical and mechanical properties of dissimilar assemblies of 2024 T3 and 7075 T6 structural hardening aluminum alloy by TIG twine electrode arc welding process. It will include a weld performed according to optimized welding parameters followed by a study of the macroscopic and microscopic evolution of the dissimilar assembly (2024–7075) using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM); In addition, the phase compositions were analyzed with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Tensile and microhardness tests were performed. The tensile fracture was observed by SEM. We have found that this process thins the weld bead and reduces the size of the heat affected zone (HAZ) of the welded joint. The microhardness is lower in the melted area and higher on the side of the area affected by the heat especially for 7075 alloy, resulting in brittle strength and a sudden drop in breaking strength.
Longitudinal Trajectories of Cognitive Function after Stroke: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Buvarp Dongni , Rafsten Lena , Abzhandadze Tamar , Sunnerhagen Katharina S.
Published: April 2021

Background The study aimed to determine longitudinal trajectories of cognitive function during the first year after stroke. MethodsThe Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to screen cognitive function at 36-48 hours, 3-months, and 12-months post-stroke. Individuals who shared similar trajectories were classified by applying the group-based trajectory models. ResultsData from 94 patients were included in the analysis. Three cognitive functioning groups were identified by the trajectory models: high (14 patients [15%]), medium (58 [62%]) and low (22 [23%]). For the high and medium groups, cognitive function improved at 12 months, but this did not occur in the low group. After age, sex and education matching to normative MoCA form the Swedish population, 52 patients (55%) were found to be cognitively impaired at baseline, and few patients had recovered at 12 months. The impact on memory differs between cognitive functioning groups, whereas the impact on activities of daily live was not different.ConclusionsPatients with the poorest cognitive function did not improve at one-year poststroke and were prone to severe memory problems. These findings may help to increase focus on long-term rehabilitation plans for those patients, and to more accurately assess their needs and difficulties experienced in daily living.
Intranasal Delivery of Human Wharton’s Jelly-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate Memory Deficits In Sporadic Alzheimer’s Rat Model By Regulating Neurotrophic and Apoptosis Genes
Authors: Eslami Ebrahim , Qiyami-Hour Farshid , Sadr Marjan , Ajdary Marziyeh , Shabani Ronak , Mehdizadeh Mehdi
Published: April 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in adulthood, which is followed by cognitive impairment and behavioral deficits. Today, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapy is a good therapeutic option to improve regenerative medicine in neurodegenerative disorders including AD. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the human Wharton’s jelly-derived MSCs (WJ-MSCs) on Alzheimer's rat models by studying the expression of neurotrophic factors involved in neurodegenerative diseases such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), as well as expression of apoptotic factors such as B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2, apoptosis inhibitor), BCL2-associated X protein (BAX, apoptosis initiator), and Caspase 3 (apoptosis executioner). Rat AD modeling was performed by intrahippocampal injection of amyloid β 1–42 (Aβ 1–42, 8 µg/kg). Animals were divided into 3 groups of 8 rat: I) control II) AD model III) MSC-treated. Behavioral tests (i.e. Passive Avoidance and Morris Water Maze) showed cognitive improvement, and amelioration of cells in the CA1 area of the hippocampus has been detected by cresyl violet (nissl) staining. Also, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of the hippocampus indicated an increase in BDNF and NGF genes and a decrease in apoptosis-related genes (BCL2, BAX, and Caspase 3). Overall, WJ-MSCs improved cognitive functions in AD rat models by increasing neurotrophic factors and decreasing apoptotic factors.
Integrated Genetic and Phenotypic Analysis for the Capsulars from Different Serotype of Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Chen Xiaoli , Zhou Guilan , Gu Yixin , Wang Hairui , Zhang Jianzhong , Shao Zhujun , Zhang Maojun
Published: April 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Performance Analysis, Modelling, and Development of a Signal Conditioning Unit of N-Type Metal Oxide Gas Sensor for Acetone Gas Detection.
Authors: K ARUN , S LEKSHMI M , J SUJA K
Published: April 2021

Metal oxide semiconductors have been widely used in the eld of gas sensor study. Various researches are being done to improve the sensitivity of the sensing material for applications like breath analyzers. In this work, a theoretical investigation and analysis of the n- type metal oxide for Acetone gas detection are carried out. The rate of change of resistance of the sensing material with respect to the change in the concentration of the target gas is analyzed. Acetone being a reducing gas the resistance was found to decrease for n-type material. The simulations were done using COMSOL Multiphysics and results showed that the resistance of the sensing layer varies with the concentration of the target gas. Also, the performance analysis of sensors has been compared with the experimental results. Further, we have also derived a mathematical expression connecting the relationship between the concentration of gas and the rate of change of resistance. The resistance change is observed to be proportional to the target gas concentration. A signal conditioning circuit was also designed for providing a user-friendly interface for monitoring the gas concentration. The simulation of the signal conditioning circuit was done using Proteus Design Suite. This work will aid researchers to define and predict the behaviour of gas sensors.
Whole-Course Conformal Radiotherapy Combined with Late-Course Accelerated Hyperfractionation Radiotherapy for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Report of 110 Cases
Authors: sun jianyong , huang weiju , chen jingbin , zhang yaohong
Published: April 2021

Purpose: This retrospective study was designed to analyze the effect and prognostic factors of whole-course conformal radiotherapy and late-course accelerated hyperfractionation radiotherapy (LCAFRT) for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).Methods and materials: A total of 110 patients with ESCC received whole-course conformal radiotherapy and LCAFRT in Chaozhou City People’s hospital between May 2004 and January 2015. All patients received conventional conformal radiotherapy of 2 Gy per day up to 30–40 Gy, followed by accelerated hyperfractionation conformal radiotherapy using reduced fields at 1.5 Gy/fraction twice a day up to 24–39 Gy, with a total dose of 60–69 Gy.Results: Median follow-up was 85 months (2–170 months). The one-, three-, and five-year survival rates were 81.82%, 46.36%, and 41.82%, respectively. The median survival time was 31.8 months. The local control rates for the whole group at 1, 3, and 5 years were 82.73%, 70%, and 68.18%, respectively. There were no significant differences among 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates and local control rates between the three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy group and intensity-modulated radiotherapy group. The main reactions to acute radiotherapy were acute radiation tracheitis, esophagitis, and pneumonia. Multivariate analysis showed that the tumor location and TNM stage were independent prognostic factors.Conclusion: The results from this study showed that whole-course conformal radiotherapy and LCAFRT for ESCC can further improve survival and local control with a tolerable acute reaction compared to previous studies. Local recurrence and distant metastasis are the main failure modes of treatment.
Clinical Outcome, PROM’s, Power and Structural Integrity after Arthroscopic Subscapularis Tendon Repair
Authors: Fal Milad Farkhondeh Farkhondeh , Schwalba Knut , Hedtmann Achim , Kircher Jörn
Published: April 2021

PurposeThe objective of this study is to assess tendon integrity, shoulder function and subscapularis (SCP) power in comparison to the contralateral normal shoulder after arthroscopic SCP repair using the SICK stitch technique.MethodsThis study assessed 32 patients with arthroscopically repaired SCP lesions. The mean age was 63.3years. All patients were assessed with a clinical examination and ultrasound pre and postoperatively. Shoulder function was evaluated using specific clinical tests and established scoring systems. The muscular strength was measured using an Isoforce Control EVO2 device in two positions for SCP (standing and sitting).ResultsAt a mean follow up of 18 months n=30 patients showed significantly improved range of motion and clinical scores (pre, post), Constant score (39.2, 66.7), subjective shoulder test (3.5, 92.32), subjective shoulder value (46.6, 88.2) and disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand score (69.3, 34). All tendons showed full integration in ultrasound and there was no significant difference for lesion size or additional SSP lesion. In comparison to the contralateral side a good restoration of power was observed.ConclusionsAfter arthroscopic repair of the subscapularis tendon using the SICK-stich technique, patients show a good restoration of shoulder function and power accompanied by good patient satisfaction. Additionally treated lesions did not significantly affect the surgical outcome.
Neurofeedback Training Improves Long-Term Memory Performance
Authors: Tseng Yu-Hsuan , Tamura Kaori , Okamoto Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2021

Understanding and improving memory is vital to enhance human life. Theta rhythm is associated with memory consolidation and coding, but the trainability and effects on long-term memory of theta rhythm are unknown. This study investigates the ability to improve long-term memory using a neurofeedback (NFB) technique reflecting the theta/low-beta power ratio on an electroencephalogram (EEG). Our study consisted of three stages: First, the long-term memory of participants was measured. In the second stage, the participants in the NFB group received three days of theta/low-beta NFB training. In the third stage, the long-term memory was measured again. The NFB group had better long-term memory than the control group and significant differences in brain activity between episodic and semantic memory during the recall tests were revealed. These findings suggest that it is possible to improve the long-term memory abilities through theta/low-beta NFB training, which also improves episodic and semantic memory.
Ultrasound stimulation improves inflammatory resolution, neuroprotection, and functional recovery after spinal cord injury
Authors: Hong Yu-ri , Lee Eun-hee , Park Ki-su , Han Mun , Kim Kyoung-Tae , Park Juyoung
Published: April 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with limited functional recovery. Despite advances in neuroscience, realistic therapeutic treatments for SCI remain unavailable. In this study, the effects of non-invasive ultrasound (US) treatment on behavior and inflammatory responses were evaluated in a rat model of SCI. Adult female Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to spinal cord contusion injury. Two different US parameters (SCIU5: 5% and SCIU40: 40% duty cycle) were applied, and their effects on behavioral recovery after SCI were quantified. Tissue and neuronal responses were detected. Immunofluorescence was used to detect inflammatory markers. In the rat model of SCI, motor function was more effectively restored, and the lesion cavity area was smaller in the SCIU5 group. Furthermore, the SCIU5 protocol elicited an anti-inflammatory response at the injury site by reducing degenerative FJC-labeled neurons, macrophage/microglia activation, and infiltration. Thus, the lesion area decreased, and tissue density increased. Meanwhile, the SCIU40 protocol did not improve motor function or induce an anti-inflammatory response at the injury site. The SCIU5 protocol effectively accelerated the rate of improved exercise performance in the rat model while reducing inflammation. Accordingly, appropriate US stimulation may represent a promising treatment modality for SCI with beneficial anti-inflammatory effects.
Genetic Variation of Amaranthus Retroflexus L. and Chenopodium Album L. Suggests Multiple Independent Introductions
Authors: Moghadam Shiva Hamidzadeh , Alebrahim Mohammad Taghi , Mohebodini Mehdi , MacGregor Dana R. , Tseng Te-Ming
Published: April 2021

Amaranthus retroflexus L. and Chenopodium album ‎L. ‎are invasive plants that globally cause severe ecological and economic damage. In this ‎study, we collected‏ DNA from ‏populations of these highly successful invaders from three ‎countries and assessed genetic diversity using inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. Both weed species showed low genetic ‎diversity within a population and high genetic diversity among populations (GST = 0.82), and the value of gene flow among the populations was low (Nm = 0.1). Both UPGMA ‎clustering and principal coordinate analysis indicated the existence of four distinct groups for ‎A. retroflexus L. and C. album L., however these groups do not correlate with geographic ‎origin. The high levels of genetic diversity observed among populations indicates that ‎each population was individually introduced, probably through human activity. This‎ knowledge helps to guide weed management and control strategies for field populations of these two prominent invasive weeds ‎as it demonstrates each population must be considered separately and suggests they are ‎armed with a considerable variety of genetic traits that could be used to avoid management ‎practices.