bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the severity of Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 between RT-PCR-positive and RT-PCR-negative Individuals in Iran Comparing the severity of Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 between RT-PCR-positive and RT-PCR-negative Individuals in Iran
Authors: F Khosravi Shadmani , Arsang-Jang Shahram , Rashidzadeh Hamid , Mansori Kamyar , Heidarzadeh Siamak , Najafi Farid , Shakiba Ebrahim , M Karami , M Sartipi , Moradi Ghobad , Ghaderi Ebrahim , Mohammadian-Hafshejani Abdollah , Ahmadi Ali , Nouri Elham , M Shojaeian , Zali Alireza , Bahadorimonfared Ayad , Nazari Seyed Saeed Hashemi
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of SARS-CoV-2
RT-PCR-positive and RT-PCR negative Patients in Iran. This cohort study
performed on 81393 patients with COVID-19 in six provinces of Iran
during 2020. The studied variables include demographic and clinical. To
examine the associations between RT-PCR test and death or ICU admission
as dependent variable the multiple Bayesian logistic regression model
was used by R software. 81393 individual (44.9 % female) with a mean
age of 52.98 ± 20.8 years were included to the analysis. At all, 25434
tests (31.2 %) were positive RT-PCR, including 10772 men (44.9%) and
14662 women (55.1%). The multiple Bayesian logistic regression model
showed a significant positive association between RT-PCR test results
and COVID-19 mortality rate (OR: 1.46; 95% Crl: 1.29- 1.64). Also,
males, older age, individual with chronic disease have higher risk of
COVID-19 death, however, negative association observed between history
of contact and COVID-19 death. We observed a significant inverse
association between RT-PCR test results and ICU admission, while, the
risk of ICU admission increased significantly by 1.2 times (95% Crl for
odds ratio: 1.09, 1.34) among patients with negative RT-PCR test
compared to positive RT-PCR test. People with positive RT-PCR test, male
gender, older age, having a history of underlying disease have a higher
risk of death and hospitalization in the ICU. Therefore, paying
attention to these factors will be effective in reducing the risk of
death and hospitalization in ICU.
Prevalence of physical and psychological impacts of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) on health care workers during COVID-19; a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Radha K , George Gigini , Varghese Abin , Joseph Jaison , Vijayanarayanan N
Published: January 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the use of personal
protective equipment (PPE) among the frontline health care workers
(HCWs). Although PPE offers a great deal of help in preventing
infection, it poses significant physical and psychological impacts at
varying levels. Correspondingly, multiple independent studies have
brought out the PPE associated problems. However, there exists a lacuna
on comprehensive information of global prevalence related to the same.
Aims: To estimate the prevalence and risk factors of PPE among HCWs
during COVID-19 across the globe. Design: Systematic review and
Meta-analysis. Method: The review was undertaken as per the protocol
registered in PROSPERO xxxxxx following PRISMA guidelines. Two
independent reviewers have undertaken the search strategy, study
selection and methodological quality assessment. Discrepancies were
addressed by the third reviewer. Heterogeneity was addressed through I2
statistics and forest plots generated by open meta-software. Results: A
total of 16 articles conducted across 6 different countries among 10,182
HCWs were included in the review. The pooled prevalence of skin lesions,
headache, sweating, breathing difficulty, vision difficulty, thirst/dry
mouth, fatigue and communication difficulty, anxiety, fear were
57(47-66%),51(37-64%),75(56-90%),44(23-68%),61(21-94%),54%(30-77%),67(58-76%),74%(47-94%),28(24-33%),14(10-17%)
respectively. Moreover, the various risk factors included; the use of
PPE greater than 6 Hrs. and young females. In addition, the medical
management of new-onset problems created an additional burden on the
frontline HCWs. Conclusion: The front-line HCWs encountered physical and
psychological problems at varying levels as a result of wearing PPE
which needs to be addressed to prevent the inadequate use of PPE leading
to infections. Relevance to clinical practice: The review sheds light on
the need to address the physical and psychological morbidity due to PPE
use for ensuring the working morale and optimum health status of
frontline HCWs to combat ongoing and future pandemics.
C-reactive protein/albumin ratio and urine protein/creatinine ratio predict poor outcomes in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Li Jia , Zhang Xuefang , Zhang Hanru , Gao Weidong , Zhang Gaoxing
Published: January 2024

Aim: To evaluate the prognostic utility of C-reactive
protein-albumin ratio (CAR) and urine protein-creatinine ratio (UACR) in
patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
Patients & methods: This study is a retrospective analysis.
Patients diagnosed with HFpEF at the Jiangmen Central Hospital from
January 2017 to January 2020 were included. HFpEF patients were
stratified into two groups based on the occurrence of major adverse
cardiac events (MACE). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves
were then constructed and Cox regression models were employed to gauge
the prognostic relevance of CAR and UACR for HFpEF patients.
Kaplan-Meier analysis evaluated the survival and MACE-free rate in
patients with different level of CAR and UACR. Results: A total
of 312 patients with HFpEF were enrolled in this study and followed up
for 25.18±7.54 months. Among them, 109 MACE (34.94%), 59 all-cause
mortality (18.91%). The age, level of C reactive protein (CRP), albumin
(ALB), creatinine (Cr) , B-type pro-brain natriuretic peptide
(NT-ProBNP) , CAR and UACR were statistically different between the MACE
group and Non-MACE group ( P<0.05). Multivariate
analysis showed that CAR and UACR were independent predictors of
all-cause mortality and MACE in HFpEF patients. ROC showed that the AUC
of the combination predicting the occurrence of all-cause mortality and
MACE are 0.837 and 0.929 respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that
the survival rate of group 1 (CAR≦0.16 and UACR≦29.15mg/g) was
significantly higher than that of group 2 (CAR>0.16 or
UACR>29.15mg/g) and group 3 (CAR>0.16 and
UACR>29.15mg/g) (98.57% vs. 74.77 vs. 53.85%,
P=0.000) and MACE-free survival rate of group 1 (CAR≦0.16 and
UACR≦31.05mg/g) was significantly higher than that of group 2 (
CAR>0.16 or UACR>31.05mg/g) and group 3
(CAR>0.16 and UACR>31.05mg/g) (94.37% vs.
48.35 vs. 13.11%, P=0.000). Conclusion: We determined
that increased CAR and UACR was independently associated with poor
outcomes in HFpEF patients. Combined evaluation of CAR and UACR yielded
a more accurate predictive model of HFpEF patient outcomes relative to
the use of either of these metrics in isolation. Our research can
provide a theoretical basis in the occurrence of MACE for the high-risk
HFpEF patients and intervene them properly and timely.
Characterization and genome functional analysis of the psychrotrophic lignin-degrading bacterium Arthrobacter sp. C2 and the role of DyP in catalyzing the degradation of lignin
Authors: Jiang Cheng , Shen Xiaohui , Cheng Yi , Zhang Yuting , Wang Yue , Sun Shanshan , Jiang Hanyi , Zang Hailian , Zhao Xinyue , Hou Ning , Li Ziwei , Wang Liwen , Wang Hanjun , Li Chunyan
Published: January 2024

In the cold regions of China, much of the lignin-rich corn straw
accumulated due to low temperature limiting. However, the lack of
psychrotrophic lignin-degrading strain resources hinders the lignin
decomposition. Here, the whole genome of the psychrotrophic
lignin-degrading bacterium Arthrobacter sp. C2, isolated in author’s
previous work, was sequenced. Comparative genomics revealed that C2
contained unique genes related to lignin degradation and low-temperature
adaptability. DyP may participate in lignin degradation and may be a
cold-adapted enzyme. Moreover, DyP was proven to catalyze lignin Cα-Cβ
bond cleavage. DyP gene deletion and complementation verified its
ability to catalyze the first-step reaction of lignin degradation.
Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that the transcriptional
expression of DyP gene was induced upregulation, and the genetic
compensation mechanism endowed C2ΔDyP viability on lignin. This study
improved the understanding of metabolic mechanism of psychrotrophic
lignin-degrading bacteria and provided potential application options for
energy-saving production using cold-adapted lignin-degrading enzymes.
Development of a Gasoline Food-Grade Magnetic Hammer Mill and Estimation of Milling and Energy Consumption Pattern of Some Selected Food Materials
Authors: Sanusi Mayowa , Sunmonu Musliu , Olaleye Sodiq
Published: January 2024

This study was aimed to develop a laboratory-scale gasoline food-grade
magnetic hammer mill and to estimate the milling efficiency, milling
yield, milling time, energy consumption and energy intensity of some
selected food materials (soybean, rice and cassava flakes). The hopper,
shaft, sieve and hammers of the gasoline food-grade magnetic hammer mill
are made of stainless steel and the structural base is made of mild
steel. The cost of developing the gasoline food-grade magnetic hammer
mill was ₦ 149,000. Cassava flakes were observed to have the highest
milling yield (940 g), lowest energy consumption (0.94 MJ), energy
intensity (0.94 MJ/kg) and the highest milling efficiency (94 %) while
soybean was observed to have the longest milling time (5.86 mins). The
developed gasoline food-grade magnetic hammer mill could be adopted for
milling different food material but its performance varies based on the
food material.
Inference of Hainan medaka population history from whole-genome resequencing
Authors: Yao Zebin , Long Shui-sheng , Wang Chun , Huang Cheng-qin , Zhang Hai-rui , Liao Jian , Guo Yu-song , Dong Zhong-Dian , WANG ZHONG-DUO
Published: January 2024

The DMY gene is deleted in all males of the Sanya population
(SY-medaka) of the Hainan medaka, Oryzias curvinotus, as recently
reported by us. However, due to limited knowledge regarding their
population genetic background, the cause of the deletion is yet to be
understood. Herein, we resequenced the whole genome of four populations,
including SY-medaka. A total of 32,826,105 SNPs were identified and the
complete mitochondrial genomes of all individuals were assembled. We
found that the genetic differentiation is highest between SY-medaka and
the other populations. Further analysis shows that SY-medaka are the
most strongly affected by environmental selection. The population
history of Oryzias curvinotus also shows that the Sanya
population size is at a low level in the context of the last 100,000
years. By combining the divergence time tree with paleogeographic
evidence, we show that the SY-medaka migrated from the Eurasian
continent. Moreover, we screened some potential genomic regions, and the
genes contained in these regions may explain the potential mechanism of
the selection process of the Sanya population. In conclusion, our study
can provide new clues for the adaptation process of medaka in the new
environment of Sanya and the mechanism of male DMY gene deletion.
Comparative Solar Steam Generation using plasmonic, optical-band transition and localized heating mechanisms
Authors: Palza Humberto , Burdiles Patricio
Published: January 2024

Water with three structures was compared for solar-steam generation: a)
copper/silica nanoshells (CuSiN) having a plasmonic resonance in the
visible region; b) thermal reduced graphene oxide (TrGO) having π-band
optical transition; and c) an oxidized carbon foam (OCF) on the top
allowing a localized heating. By using an open direct absorbing solar
collector under simulated solar radiation, the evaporation rate (in kg/m
2 s) under 3 Suns was 2.1 x 10 -4 for pure water, while values of 5.1,
5.5 and 6.0 were reached for water with CuSiN, TrGO and OCF systems,
respectively. Under natural sunlight (60 suns), for pure water an
evaporation rate of 7.5 x 10 -4 was obtained after only 10 minutes of
irradiation. Noteworthy, this value increased to 1.0 x 10 -2 for the
system having the OCF while for all the nanoparticles systems the values
were around 8.4 x 10 -3 .
Identification and genetic characterization of a novel duck astrovirus causing gout disease in ducklings
Authors: Zhang Junqin , Huang Yunzhen , Li Linlin , Dong Jiawen , Kuang Ruihuan , Sun Minhua , Liao Ming
Published: January 2024

Four divergent groups of duck astroviruses (DAstVs) have been identified
that infect domestic ducks. In March 2021, a fatal disease characterized
by visceral urate deposition broke out in 5-day-old Beijing ducks on a
commercial farm in Guangdong province, China. The pathogen was confirmed
to be a duck astrovirus. The complete genome sequence of this DAstV was
obtained by virome sequencing and amplification. Phylogenetic analyses
and pairwise comparisons demonstrated that this DAstV represented a
novel group of avastrovirus. Thus, we designated this duck astrovirus as
DAstV-5 JM strain. DAstV-5 JM shared genome sequence identities of
15–45% with other avastroviruses. Amino acid identities with proteins
from other avastroviruses did not exceed 59% for ORF1a, 79% for ORF1b,
and 60% for ORF2. The capsid region of JM shared genetic distances of
0.596 to 0.695 with the three official avastrovirus species. In summary,
we determined that the DAstV-5 JM strain, causing gout in ducklings, is
a novel species of avastrovirus.
Primary Cardiac Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Kassab Joseph , Kassab Roland
Published: January 2024

Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) is a very rare neoplasm, which involves
only the heart and pericardium without evidence of extracardiac
involvement. We herein report a unique case of a 64-year-old man
presenting with increasing exertional dyspnea, worsening orthopnea,
oxygen desaturation and upper body swelling. Subsequent investigations
revealed a large obstructive right atrial (RA) tumor. Due to the
patient’s deteriorating clinical condition, urgent surgical removal of
the tumor was planned and successfully performed. Histopathological
findings were consistent with the diagnosis of primary cardiac lymphoma.
The patient subsequently completed his chemotherapy cycles and is
currently in remission.
Driving factors behind energy-related carbon emissions in the U.S. road transport sector: a decomposition analysis
Authors: Jiang Rui , Wu Peng , Wu Chengke
Published: January 2024

The U.S. is the world’s second largest contributor to carbon emissions,
with its road transport sector being one of the most significant
emission sources. However, few studies have been conducted on factors
influencing the emissions changes for the U.S. from the perspective of
passenger and freight transport. This study aims to evaluate the carbon
emissions from the U.S. road passenger and freight transport sectors,
using a Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index approach. Emissions from 2008 to
2017 in the U.S. road transport sector are analysed and key findings
include: 1) passenger transport contributes over 70% to total transport
carbon emissions, with cars and light trucks contributing the highest
share; 2) energy intensity and passenger transport intensity are
critical for reducing emissions from road passenger transport, and
transport structure change is causing shift of emissions between
different passenger transport modes; and 3) the most effective
strategies to reduce carbon emissions in the road freight transport
sector are to improve energy intensity and reduce freight transport
intensity. Several policy recommendations regarding reducing energy and
transport intensity are proposed. The results and policy recommendations
are expected to provide useful references for policy makers to form
carbon emissions reduction strategies for the road transport sector.
Perceptions, healthcare messaging and its impact on COVID vaccine uptake in pregnancy : A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Sethi Sonika , Thompson Amy , Qureshi Ehsaan , Stone Anna , Bateman James , Basu Supratik , Brookes Matthew , Schreuder Francina
Published: January 2024

Objective: To gain in-depth insights into factors affecting COVID-19
vaccine acceptance in pregnant women. This demographic has lower rates
of COVID vaccination despite being disproportionally negatively affected
by COVID. Design: A single centre cross-sectional online survey
distributed 13th August 2021 to 21st September 2021 on local networks.
Setting: Online Population: Pregnant population in a large District
General Hospital in the West Midlands, UK. Main Outcome Measures: i)
demographic and baseline data ii) awareness of information sources; iii)
opinions on COVID and vaccination, iv) vaccination decisions. Results:
92 total eligible responses were quantitatively and qualitatively
analysed. 60.9% (n=56) had declined, or would decline, a COVID-19
vaccination. Those who had a previous negative pregnancy experience were
significantly more likely to accept a COVID-19 vaccination (OR 3.9;
p<0.05, 95% CI 1.32-11.52). Over half (53.2%) of
participants either agreed or strongly agreed that discussion with a
healthcare professional was important in decision making on vaccination
. GPs were the least supportive of the vaccination (62.5%) compared to
midwives (78.8%) and obstetric consultants (81.8%). The most common
reason for declining the vaccine were perceived risks to the fetus; this
was also frequently reported in the qualitative analysis. Other
qualitative themes included; distrust of recommendations, conflict of
information and uncertainty. Conclusions: There is a need for consistent
health professional messaging around vaccine uptake in pregnancy and the
use of appropriate evidence based information, particularly focusing on
its safety and impact on fetus. There is a need to nurture a
collaborative approach and informed decision making.
POMMS: Pre-Operative Misoprostol in Myomectomy Surgery: A Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Wetherell Lima , Kathurusinghe Shamitha , Szabo Rebecca , Gilmartin Christine , Polyakov Alex , Ross Vanessa , Dronavalli Mithilesh , Ang Catarina
Published: January 2024

Objective To assess the effect on intra-operative blood loss of using
pre-operative sublingual misoprostol in abdominal and laparoscopic
myomectomy surgeries compared to placebo. Design Double-blind
placebo-controlled randomised study. Setting A single tertiary
Gynaecology Unit in Melbourne, Australia. Population Women 18 years old
undergoing laparoscopic or open myomectomy surgery. Methods Fifty three
women undergoing laparoscopic or abdominal myomectomy surgery for
symptomatic uterine leiomyomas were randomised to pre-operative
sublingual 400mcg misoprostol (n=26) or placebo (n=27). Main Outcome
Measures The primary outcome measure was intra-operative blood loss.
Results There was no significant difference in intra-operative blood
loss at myomectomy surgery between the misoprostol and placebo groups.
Intraoperative blood loss in the misoprostol treatment group was 306ml
+/- 281ml, compared to 325  352 ml in the placebo group; P=0.83. Both
groups were adequately matched for baseline demographics and myoma size.
Conclusions The study was not able to demonstrate that pre-operative
sublingual misoprostol use at laparoscopic and abdominal myomectomy
surgery resulted in a statistically significant reduction in
intra-operative blood loss. This study provides a foundation for
adequately powered trials assessing the effect of sublingual misoprostol
on blood loss at myomectomy. Funding Funding was supplied via an
Australia Gynaecological Endoscopy and Surgery Society (AGES) Research
Grant. There were no conflicts of interest in this trial. Keywords
Leiomyoma, myomectomy, misoprostol, blood loss, sublingual Tweetable
abstract Pre-operative sublingual misoprostol may reduce intra-operative
blood loss during myomectomy surgery but confirmation is required from a
larger study.
Hyoscine butylbromide associated psychosis: A case report
Authors: Neupane Durga , Lageju Nimesh , Jaiswal Lokesh
Published: January 2024

Abstract Hyoscine butyl bromide, an anti-spasmodic is often used for
alleviation of colicky abdominal pain. Few studies have shown its safety
and efficacy in children. Apart from common side effects, acute
psychosis has been rarely reported. With this case report, we would like
to reflect a message that hyoscine butylbromide should be used carefully
in children, along with the emphasis on the correct dose, frequency and
competency of the practicing clinician.
Species interactions and diversity: a unified framework using Hill numbers
Authors: Godsoe William , Murray Rua , Iritani Ryosuke
Published: January 2024

Biodiversity describes the variety of organisms on planet earth.
Ecologists have long hoped for a synthesis between analyses of
biodiversity and analyses of biotic interactions among species, such as
predation, competition, and mutualism. However, it is often unclear how
to connect details of these interactions with complex modern analyses of
biodiversity. Using methods pioneered in studies of
ecological-evolutionary dynamics, we link biotic interactions and
changes in measures of biodiversity such as Hill numbers. We show that
analyses of biodiversity obscure details about biotic interactions. For
example, identical changes in biodiversity can arise from predation,
competition or mutualism, locally or across a metacommunity. Our
approach indicates that traditional models of community assembly miss
key facets of diversity change. Instead, we suggest that analyses of
diversity change should focus on partitions, which measure mechanisms
that directly shape changes in diversity, notably relative fitness and
immigration, rather than traditional analyses of biotic interactions.
Algebras of Mellin pseudodifferential operators with quasicontinuous symbols.
Authors: Karlovich Yuri
Published: January 2024

The paper deals with studying a Banach algebra
${\mathfrak D}_p$ generated by Mellin
pseudodifferential operators with a subclass
$\widehat{\mathcal
E}(\mathbb{R}_+,
\!V(\mathbb{R}))$ of quasicontinuous
$V(\mathbb{R})$-valued symbols on Lebesgue spaces
$L^p(\mathbb{R}_+,d\mu)$, where
$V(\mathbb{R})$ is the Banach algebra of absolutely
continuous functions of bounded total variation on the real line
$\mathbb{R}$,
$p\in(1,\infty)$ and
$d\mu(r)=dr/r$. Constructing approximations of symbols
${\mathfrak
a}\in\widehat{\mathcal
E} (\mathbb{R}_+,V(\mathbb{R}))$ by
functions similar to symbols of singular integral operators with
quasicontinuous coefficients, which form a Banach algebra
${\mathfrak A}_p$, the similarity of the algebras
${\mathfrak D}_p$ and ${\mathfrak
A}_p$ is established, and the compactness of commutators and
semicommutators of Mellin pseudodifferential operators
$\operatorname{Op}({\mathfrak
a})\in{\mathfrak D}_p$ with symbols
${\mathfrak a}
\in\widehat{\mathcal
E}(\mathbb{R}_+,V(\mathbb{R}))$ is
proved. A Fredholm symbol calculus for the Banach algebra
${\mathfrak D}_p$ is constructed and a Fredholm
criterion and an index formula for the operators
$D\in{\mathfrak D}_p$ are obtained.
Chebyshev wavelet based numerical method for solving singular perturbed nonlinear Benjamin--Bona--Mahony equation
Authors: Sinha Arvind Kumar , Sahoo Radhakrushna
Published: January 2024

The paper has developed an efficient and accurate Chebyshev
wavelet-based numerical method (CWNM) for solving singular perturbed
nonlinear Benjamin–Bona–Mahony equation. The key idea of the CWNM is
based on the expansion of unknown function into a series of the basis of
shifted Chebyshev wavelets; that is, it reduces the underlying problem
to a system of algebraic equations. The proposed method is
straightforward and accurate with a small computational cost. We have
proved that the proposed method is convergent, and CWNM is very high
estimation accuracy. The numerical results are more precise than other
existing methods available in the literature and very close to exact
solutions. Finally, we have shown that the proposed method’s CPU time is
compared with the CPU time taken by other existing methods.
Speech Perception Ability and Spatial Release from Masking in Children with Single-Sided Deafness Aided with Bone Conduction Devices
Authors: Liu Yujie , Chen Peiwei , Yang Lin , Zhu Jikai , Yang Jinsong , Wang Danni , Li Ying , Ren Ran , Zhao Chunli , Zhao Shouqin
Published: January 2024

Abstract Objectives: To investigate the hearing outcomes of speech
perception ability and spatial release from masking (SRM) in paediatric
single-sided deafness (SSD) patients aided with a non-invasive bone
conduction hearing aid (BCD). Design: Speech perception tests were
performed using the Chinese Mandarin Speech Test Materials. Setting: The
experiment was conducted in a sound-attenuated audiometric booth.
Participants: Seven school-aged children with SSD and a group of seven
age-related normal hearing (NH) children as a comparison group were
included. Main outcome measures: Speech perception in quiet was measured
using the speech discrimination score (SDS, in %). Speech perception in
noise was tested with the speech reception threshold (SRT, in dB
signal-to-noise ratio [SNR]). SRM was calculated as the difference
in SRT between when the masking of SSN was Co-located and when it was
spatially separated from the target speech signals. Results: The results
confirmed that children with normal bilateral hearing experienced
greater speech perception ability and SRM than those with SSD. BCDs
remarkably improved speech perception ability in quiet and noise for
those with SSD, but there was no statistical improvement of SRM after
short-term use. For NH school-aged children, SRM continued to change
with age. Conclusion: The outcomes demonstrated substantial benefits in
speech perception ability for SSD patients aided with BCDs. Further
studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to explore whether SRM
can be improved by hearing adaptation.
An efficient block Gauss-Seidel overrelaxation iteration method for the space fractional coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations
Authors: Aslani Hamed , Salkuyeh Davod Khojasteh , Taghipour Mehran
Published: January 2024

A linearly implicit difference scheme for the space fractional coupled
nonlinear Schrödinger (CNLS) equation is proposed. The resulting
coefficient matrix of the discretized linear system consists of the sum
of a complex scaled identity and a symmetric positive definite,
diagonal-plus-Toeplitz, matrix. An efficient block Gauss-Seidel
overrelaxation method (BGSOR) method has been established to solve the
discretized linear system. It is worth noting that the proposed method
solves the linear equations without the need to any system solution,
which is beneficial for reducing computational cost and memory
requirements. Theoretical analysis implies that the BGSOR method is
convergent under a suitable condition. Moreover, an appropriate approach
to compute the optimal parameter in the BGSOR method is exploited.
Finally, the theoretical analysis is validated by some numerical
experiments.
Nonlinear Frequency and Bifurcation Phenomenon of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Truncated Laminated Conical Shell Based on First-Order Shear Deformation Theory
Authors: Yang S. W. , Hao Y.X. , Yang L. , Liu L.T.
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the dynamic model of a carbon fiber reinforced polymer
(CFRP) truncated laminated conical shell based on the first-order shear
deformation theory is established. The free and forced vibration
analyses of the CFRP truncated laminated conical shell are presented. By
utilizing the Hamilton principle, the first-order shear deformation
shell theory and the von-Karman type nonlinear geometric relationships,
a system of the partial differential governing equations for the CFRP
truncated laminated conical shell is derived. The ordinary differential
equations of the cylindrical shell are obtained according to Galerkin
method. Then, the analytical nonlinear frequencies of the CFRP truncated
laminated conical shell are solved by using the harmonic balance method.
The nonlinear dynamic responses of the CFRP truncated laminated conical
shell are obtained via the Runge-Kutta algorithm. The present method are
validated by carrying out some comparisons with the existing results in
the published literatures. A parametric study is conducted to
investigate the effects of the temperatures of outside surfaces and the
ratio of length to thickness as well as ratio of radius to length of the
CFRP truncated laminated conical shell on the nonlinear free and forced
vibration behaviors.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus-Related Severe Acute Lower Respiratory Tract Infection Among Under-Fives at a Public Tertiary Hospital in Northwestern Nigeria: Epidemiology and Seasonality.
Authors: Garba Maria , Giwa Fatima , Adelaiye Hamdalla , Abdullahi Fatima , Olorukooba Abiola , Makarfi Hauwa , Fadlullai Abdur-Raheem , Lowensteyn Yvette , Bont Louis , Mudasir Halima , Uduu Ehi , Mazur Natalie I.
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Background- Globally, 33 million cases of Respiratory
Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections occur annually among under-fives.
Ninety-nine percent of deaths from RSV occur in low- and middle-income
countries. Under-five pneumonia mortality in Nigeria was estimated at
140,520 in 2017, but RSV epidemiological data is scant due to poor
awareness and limited testing. Vaccines for RSV are currently under
development and RSV mortality data from this high-mortality low resource
setting are essential to maximizing the potential benefit of vaccination
as well as promoting vaccine uptake. This study aimed to describe the
epidemiology and seasonality of RSV-ALRTI in children younger than 5
years in Zaria, Northwestern Nigeria. Methods-A prospective cohort study
was conducted among children aged 1 month to 5 years who were
hospitalized with acute lower respiratory tract infection (ALRTI) in the
Emergency Pediatric Unit of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital
from November 2018 to November 2019. Naso-pharyngeal swabs were obtained
for RSV testing using a point-of-care immunoassay technique. Results-
Thirty-three percent (35/106) of the children had RSV-related ALRTI. The
median age of RSV-positive cases was 8 months (IQR 3-14). Two-thirds of
children (68.6%, 24/35) were below 12 months. The RSV mortality rate
was 5.7% (2/35). RSV occurred in 10 months of the year with peaks in
March and July. conclusions- A third of admitted children with ALRTI
were positive for RSV. RSV significantly contributes to childhood
pneumonia and testing will raise awareness of this important pathogen.
The dual seasonal peak observed in our study may have implications for
vaccine implementation.
Genital microbiota of reproductive-age women from six ethnic groups with and without human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in Shangri-La, China: population surveillance study
Authors: Li Xiao-Ran , Wu Xiao-Mei , Liu Chen-Jian , XIao Wen-yu , Fang Jun-Feng , Dong Yong-Hong , Ye Ke-Fan , He Meng-Ping , Wang Yan-Song , Li Xiao , Zhao Zhi-Min , Yuan Tao , Zhao Ting , He Chun-Yan , Zhang Shu-Ming , Yang En
Published: January 2024

Objective To assessment of the composition and ecology of the vaginal
microbial ecosystem in asymptomatic women. Design Microbial monitoring
of reproductive tract and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Population Healthy women of childbearing age. Setting China Methods The
relationships between HPV infection and vaginal, cervical and gut
microbiota composition and the levels of genital immune mediators were
assessed. We selected a multiethnic area in Yunnan Province, China to
collect samples from healthy women of childbearing age. Vaginal,
cervical and rectal swabs were collected to analyze the microbial
community, and cytokines were analyzed in some samples. Main outcome
measures Different proportions and types of HPV infection were detected
in vaginal (18%), cervical (44%) and rectal (18%) swabs. Results
There were some differences in this proportion as well as in the
microbial community composition among different ethnic groups. Rectal
samples exhibited the highest diversity index, while vaginal samples
displayed the lowest diversity index. Lactobacillus dominated most of
the vaginal samples, was decreased in HPV-positive samples, and differed
among different ethnic groups. However, the sequence proportion of
Lactobacillus in the cervix exhibited the opposite trend in those
affected by HPV infection. The dynamic balance between the potential
pathogens Gardnerella and Lactobacillus determines the health of the
female genital system. Conclusions This study constitutes the first step
toward personalized medicine for women’s reproductive health, wherein
differences between the genital microbiomes of individuals would be
considered in risk assessment and for subsequent disease diagnosis and
treatment.
Optimization of continuous particle separation in a symmetric sharp corner microchannel
Authors: Mahani Moheb Amir , Naserifar Naser
Published: January 2024

The separation of circulating tumor cells from the bloodstream with high
purity plays a crucial role in the treatment of cancer illness. Design
and fabrication of cell sorters based on numerical models can lead to
optimized cell sorters from throughput, purity, and size aspects. In
this research, a symmetric sharp corner microchannel was designed and
optimized to achieve a more compact cell sorter with high purity output
based on a numerical model. Sharp corners in the microchannel generate
centrifugal and inertial lift forces which cause particles (7.32 μm and
15.5 μm )   separation. The proposed numerical model was validated using
experimental data. Using the proposed approach decreased the size of the
device up to 19% while maintaining the purity level of 95.45%. These
results will have impacts in designing compact cell sorters with high
purity output for implantable applications.
Differential effects of soil trophic networks on microbial decomposition activity in mountain ecosystems
Authors: Martinez-Almoyna Camille , Saillard Amélie , Zinger Lucie , Lionnet Clement , Arnoldi Cindy , Foulquier Arnaud , Gielly Ludovic , Piton Gabin , Munkemuller Tamara , Thuiller Wilfried
Published: January 2024

Soil trophic networks are key to biogeochemical cycles, in particular
decomposition. However, few studies have yet quantified how microbial
decomposition activity along environmental gradients is jointly driven
by bacteria, fungi, and their respective consumers. Here, we quantified
these direct and indirect effects on decomposition and contrasted them
between forests and open habitats using multiple elevational gradients
in the French Alps. While environmental control on microbial
decomposition activity was comparable in the two habitats, the pathways
and strengths of biotic predictors strongly differed. The fungal channel
composition played a moderate role in forests, while the bacterial
channel composition was critical in open habitats. Importantly, we found
trophic regulation by consumers to be a key modulator of the direct
environmental effects on decomposition in open habitats. These results
highlight the need to integrate trophic regulation when predicting
future ecosystem functioning.
Impact of early in-hospital nutritional status on clinical outcomes in Coronavirus disease 2019 patients: A single-center retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Fei , Wang Meng-Xin , Chen Yu-Rong , Feng Rui-Han , Dou Zu-Lin , Tang Zhi-Ming
Published: January 2024

Background： This study investigated the effects of nutritional status
at the time of admission on clinical outcomes in patients with
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods：A retrospective analysis
was performed on 54 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Clinical data of
admitted patients, albumin and pre-serum albumin levels,
gastrointestinal intolerance, and general information were collected and
analyzed. The primary clinical outcomes were length of hospital stay and
hospitalization costs. Results：The results showed that albumin and
pre-serum albumin levels of patients at admission were negatively
associated with the length of hospital stay and hospitalization costs (P
< 0.001). Patients with poor appetite had longer hospital
stays (P < 0.001) and higher hospital costs (P = 0.022).
Conclusion：These results indicated that the nutritional status at
admission can directly influence the clinical outcomes of COVID-19.
Reverse cascade diagnosis of hereditary hyperferritinemia cataract syndrome (HHCS)
Authors: Mahe Perrine , Cunat Severine , Giansily-Blaizot Muriel , Cambonie Gilles , Lalande Muriel , Jeziorski Eric , Aguilar-Martinez Patricia
Published: January 2024

Hereditary hyperferritinemia cataract syndrome is an autosomal dominant
disorder characterized by hyperferritinemia without iron overload, and
early-onset bilateral cataracts. Diagnosis is unusual in early infancy.
We present here the case of an infant girl diagnosed at the age of 9
months whose mother was also diagnosed by family screening. The mother
had a cataract which required follow up. It is important to inform
pediatricians of this syndrome in order to avoid unsafe treatments, such
as phlebotomies, and to set up an ophthalmologic follow-up.
INDUCTION OF LABOUR USING TRANSCERVICAL FOLEY'S CATHETER WITH EXTRA AMNIOTIC SALINE INFUSION VERSUS INTRACERVICAL PROSTAGLANDIN E2 GEL AT TERM GESTATION- A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: Madana Jyotsna , S Vasantha , Gowda Nandini Srinivasa
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND: The intentional commencement of cervical ripening and
uterine contraction for the purpose of achieving delivery prior to the
onset of spontaneous parturition is known as induction of labour. When
the benefits to the mother or the foetus surpass the benefits of
extending the pregnancy, it is indicated. AIM: The purpose of this study
was to assess the efficacy of a transcervical foley’s catheter with
extra amniotic saline infusion against intra cervical prostaglandin E2
gel for inducing labour in term pregnant women. RESEARCH MATERIALS AND
METHODS: From January 2020 to June 2021, a comparative study was
undertaken at R.L. Jalappa Hospital and Research Centre. The study
enrolled a total of 72 individuals. After obtaining informed consent
from the patients who were admitted, and meeting the inclusion criteria,
detailed history was collected, baseline investigations were done. After
clinical examination of the patient, by using the simple lottery method,
patients were divided into group A (Extra amniotic saline infusion group
with Foley’s catheter) and group B (Dinoprostone (PGE2 gel) group).
RESULTS: Prolonged gestational age, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy,
and oligohydramnios were the most frequent causes for induction in the
EASI group, accounting for 38.89 %, 38.89 % and 22.22 %,
respectively. The dinoprostone group has 36.11 %, 33.33 %, and 25%,
respectively. After induction, the majority of patients in the EASI
group had a modified Bishop’s score of 2. CONCLUSION: Our research found
that PGE2 and EASI were equally effective in inducing labour. KEY WORDS:
Induction of labour.
ON THE EXISTENCE RESULTS FOR A GENERALIZED P-LAPLACIAN FRACTIONAL BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEM WITH INTEGRAL CONDITIONS
Authors: Jebari Rochdi
Published: January 2024

The main purpose of this paper is to establish existence and
multiplicity of positive solutions for a generalized p-Laplacian
fractional differential equation with integral conditions:
8>>>><
>>>>: D 0+(ϕ(D
0+u(t))) + f(t; u(t)) = 0; t 2 [0; 1] u(0) = 0; u(1) = ∫ 1 0 u(s)
dA(s): (ϕ(D 0+u(0)) = 0; (ϕ(D 0+u(1)) ′ = ∫ 1 0 ϕ(D 0+u(s)) dB(s): (0.1)
where 1 < 2, 1 < 2, D 0+ and D 0+ are the standard
Riemann-Liouville fractional derivatives, > 0 is a
parameter. We derived explicit intervals of in which the uniqueness and
multiplicity of solutions of problem are ensured. To prove our results,
we used the strongly monotone operator principle and Guo-Krasnosel’skii
xed-point theorem on cones. Four examples presented to illustrate our
main results.
A higher-order implicit finite point stair scheme for the modified Burgers' equation
Authors: Shyaman V P , Sreelakshmi A , Awasthi Ashish
Published: January 2024

In the quest of constructing a user-friendly handy algorithm for the
numerical solutions of the modified Burgers equation an adaptive finite
point method is carefully orchestrated without compromising on accuracy,
stability and consistency. The proposed algorithm has been designed such
that the local properties of the exact solution is innately inherited to
the numerical solutions. Apart from being conditionally stable,
consistent, converging and rapid the method above and beyond replicates
the exact solutions on coarse meshes even when the kinematic viscosity
close in to zero. To illustrate the applicability of the algorithm
differing examples are taken into account. The numerical results
obtained are in accordance with the exact physical behavior and with its
friendly algorithm have outshined many of the existing sophisticated
methods in literature.
Jiang’s phenomenon in left bundle branch pacing: A case report
Authors: Zhuo Shan , Jiang Longfu , Cai Xiao , Shen Jiabo
Published: January 2024

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) is a new physiological pacing technique
that provides new options for device treatment in patients with
bradycardia and heart failure. Recent data have shown that this method
was able to obtain a low and stable threshold compared to His bundle
pacing . The Wenckebach phenomenon refers to a
progressive lengthening of impulse conduction time, followed by a
non-conducted impulse or dropped beat. We have observed a progressive
prolongation of stimulus-ventricular (S-V) interval that was followed by
ventricular depolarization in an intracardiac electrogram (EGM) of a
patient. This process is defined as the Jiang’s phenomenon, which is
different from the Wenckebach phenomenon. Some electrophysiological
phenomena were also observed with the guidance of John Jiang’s
connecting cable in LBBP . Unlike a traditional
connecting cable, which has to be disconnected while the pacing lead is
screwed into the septum, John Jiang’s connecting cable allows for
simultaneous monitoring and recording of electrocardiogram (ECG) and
intracardiac EGM during lead deployment.
Methylation status of SOCS1 and SOCS3 genes in patients with acute lymphoid leukemia: A case-control study
Authors: Shabani Mahsima , Mojtahedi Hanieh , Sadr Maryam , Rezaei Arezoo , Afradiasbagharani Parivash , Sanati Golshid , Aryan Zahra , Nikouei Leila , Kompani Farzad , Rezaei Nima
Published: January 2024

Objective: Acute Lymphoid Leukemia (ALL) is the leading childhood cancer
with high mortality and morbidity. Studies have suggested an association
of epigenetic transformations with prognosis, recurrence, and
immunophenotypes of ALL. SOCS1 and SOCS3 are tumor suppressors
inhibiting JAK/STAT signaling pathway and the resultant aberrant cell
proliferation. We aimed to assess the methylated status of these genes
in patients with ALL, using bone marrow and peripheral blood samples.
Materials and Methods: 18 patients with ALL and 13 children with no
malignancies were included. Using Bisulfite conversion, quantitative
multiplex methylation-specific PCR and 2^(-∆∆Ct) formula, the
methylated DNA in the promoters of SOCS1 and SOCS3 were measured.
Results: ALL patients had higher mean methylation in SOCS1 promoter and
lower mean methylation in SOCS3 promoter, compared to the control group.
However, neither of these mean differences were statistically
significant. Conclusion: This finding can set the foundation for further
large-sample studies with the use of healthy children as the control
group to strengthen the hypothetical association of the methylation
status of SOCS1 and SOCS3 with ALL.
Pericardial Effusion in a Pediatric Patient with Langerhans-Cell Histiocytosis (LCH): A Case Report and Review of an Atypical Presentation of Multisystemic LCH
Authors: Villarreal Enrique , Espinosa Karen , Tamez-Rivera Oscar , Ortega-Alonzo Sara , González-Gaytán Daniel , Rangel-Fuentes Maria , Mares-Gil José
Published: January 2024

Langerhans-cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a condition characterized of an
inadequate function and proliferation of this cells. Clinical
presentation can be variable depending on the site of affection. The
most common sites of affection are bones, skin and lymph nodes; however,
this histiocytic disorder can arise in virtually any organ system,
making it challenging to diagnose. In this case report we describe a
6-month-old with an atypical and unique presentation of multisystemic
LCH: skin involvement and pericardial effusion. We highlight the
importance of clinical suspicion among physicians when symptoms of
several systems appear, especially when skeletal or skin systems are
affected.
Ineffective of lopinavir/ritonavir and chloroquine for a COVID-19 treatment: A perspective of physiologically-based pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modelling
Authors: Saeheng Teerachat , Karbwang Juntra , Na-Bangchang Kesara
Published: January 2024

Ineffective selection of therapeutic drugs during an urgent situation
leads to failure for COVID-19 treatment in large clinical trials,
resulting in wasting time and cost. We aimed to demonstrate the utility
of physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK)/pharmacodynamic (PD)
modeling to support the withdrawal of chloroquine and ritonavir-boosted
lopinavir (LPV/r) for COVID-19 treatment. The developed whole-body PBPK
models were validated against clinical data. Model validation was
performed using acceptable methods. The inhibitory effect was calculated
to demonstrate drug efficacy. Various regimens of chloroquine and LPV/r
for COVID-19 treatment in different clinical trials were used for a
simulation. The risk of cardiotoxicity following high dose chloroquine
administration was assessed. The effect of lung pH on drug
concentrations in epithelial lining fluid (ELF) following a high dose of
chloroquine and LPV/r was evaluated. The whole-body PBPK models were
successfully developed (AAFEs of 1.2-fold). The inhibitory effect (%E)
of chloroquine following high dose regimens in both ELF and bronchial
epithelial cells (BEC) were lower than 2 and 1%, respectively. The
corresponding values for the high dose of LPV/r were 40 and 2%,
respectively. The risk of prolonged QTc in the population was higher
than 20%. In addition, the %E of chloroquine was increased to 76% at
pH 5.6 and decreased to 0.13% at pH 7.5. The change in pH in ELF had no
influence on LPV/r concentrations. PBPK/PD modelling supports the
withdrawal of chloroquine and LPV/r for COVID-19 treatment as an
effective tool for the selection of therapeutic drug regimens in urgent
situation.
Ginsenoside Compound K attenuates Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.
Authors: Zhu Lu , Liu Bin , Liu Tao , Li Gang , Gu Ling , Liu Hanmin
Published: January 2024

Background: An important pathogenic mechanism in the development of
pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is hypothesized to be the
pulmonary vascular remodeling, in which cancer-like pulmonary arterial
smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) proliferation and perivascular inflammation
play an important role. Ginsenoside compound K (G-CK) exhibits
anticancer and anti-inflammation properties. However, whether or not
G-CK could protect against PAH in rats is still unknown. Objective: The
aim was to investigate whether or not G-CK attenuates PAH, if so, to
elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects. Methods and
Results: we established PAH rat models by left pneumonectomy combined
with monocrotaline, and PAH rats were treated G-CK in the prevention (on
7 th day) and reversal group (on 21th day) respectively. The weekly body
weight, the survival rate, mean pulmonary arterial pressure and right
ventricle hypertrophy index of prevention group and reversal group
improved to varying degrees. Hematoxylin and eosin and elastic Van
Gieson staining of lung tissue showed that the increased of wall
thickness, vescular occlusion score and the degree of neointimal
proliferation in the model group were mitigated by G-CK.
Immunohistochemical analysis of Ki67 and α-smooth muscle actin showed
that G-CK suppressed proliferation of PASMCs and muscularization
compared with model group. Moreover, G-CK inhibited NF-κB/Nod-like
receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome
signalling and reduced IL-18, TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐1β in lung tissue by
western blot.