bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Evaluation of Corneas from Normal, Forme Fruste Keratoconus, and Clinical Keratoconus Patients using Morphological and Biomechanical Properties
Authors: Zhang Hui , Tian Lei , Guo Li-Li , Qin Xiao , Zhang Di , Li Lin , Zhang Haixia , Jie Ying 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: At present, the diagnosis of keratoconus with Pentacam (typical morphological measurement device), Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA) and Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology (Corvis ST) (two main in vivo biomechanical measurement devices), is mainly for clinical keratoconus (CKC), and the analysis of diagnostic performance is only for the comparison of single output parameters, and the total number of parameters is not complete. Therefore, we intend to use the above three devices to more comprehensively evaluate the ability of the parameters reflecting the morphological and biomechanical properties of the cornea to distinguish keratoconus, especially contralateral normal eye of unilateral keratoconus, that is, the forme fruste keratoconus (FFKC), so as to to obtain further reference for early diagnosis of keratoconus.Methods: Normal eyes (n = 50), CKC eyes (n = 45), and FFKC eyes (n = 15) were analyzed using Pentacam, Corvis ST, and ORA. Stepwise logistic regression of all parameters was performed to obtain the optimal combination model capable of distinguishing CKC, FFKC from normal, named SLR1 and SLR2, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were applied to determine the predictive accuracy of the parameters and the two combination models, as described by the area under the curve (AUC). AUCs were compared using the DeLong method. Results: The SLR1 model included only the TBI output by Pentacam, while the SLR2 model included the morphological parameter F.Ele.Th, and two parameters from the Corvis ST, HC DfA, and SP-A1. The majority of the parameters had sufficient strength to differentiate the CKC from normal corneas. Even the seven separate parameters and the SLR1 model had a discrimination efficiency of 100%. The predictive accuracy of the parameters was moderate for eyes with FFKC, and the SLR2 model (0.965) presented an excellent AUC, followed by TBI, F.Ele.Th and BAD-D.Conclusion: The F.Ele.Th from Pentacam was the most sensitive morphological parameter for FFKC, and the combination of F.Ele.Th, HC DfA and SP-A1 made the diagnosis of FFKC more efficient. The CRF and CH output by ORA did not improve the combined diagnosis, despite the corneal combination of morphological and biomechanical properties that optimized the diagnosis of FFKC.
A Finite Element Analysis of Sacroiliac Joint Displacements and Ligament Strains in Response to Three Manipulations
Authors: Xu Zhun , Li Yikai , Zhang Shaoqun , Liao Liqing , Wu Kai , Feng Ziyu , Li Dan 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background Clinical studies have found that manipulations have a good clinical effect on sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain without specific causes. However, the specific mechanisms of manipulations are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of three common manipulations on the pressures and displacements of SIJ, and the strains of the surrounding ligaments.Methods A three-dimensional finite element model of the pelvis-femur was developed. The manipulation of hip and knee flexion (MHKF), the manipulation of oblique pulling (MOP), and the manipulation of lower limb hyperextension (MLLH) were simulated. The pressures and displacements of SIJs, and the strains of the surrounding ligaments were analyzed under the three manipulations.Results The MOP produced the greatest pressure on the left SIJ, at 6.6 MPa, while the MHKF could produce the lowest pressure on the right SIJ, at 1.5 MPa. The displacements of SIJs were all less than 1mm in the three manipulations. The three manipulations could cause different degrees of the strains of ligaments around the SIJs, and the MOP could produce the largest strain of ligaments.Conclusion The three manipulations all produced small displacements of SIJs, while they caused different degrees of ligament strains, which might be the reason for relieving the SIJ pain. The MOP may be a more effective manual therapy.
Adaptive Optics for Reduction of Thermal Blooming Effects by Phase Compensation
Authors: Wu Shuyun , Luo Xi , Li Xinyang 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
The use of an AO system for the reduction of thermal blooming effects by phase correction of a 1.064-µm laser was studied. The energy concentration of the beam spot in the far-field increased greatly when the adaptive optics system performed in a closed loop. The phase compensation of the AO system was effective for a Bradley–Hermann distortion number of less than 130. The experimental results were in good agreement with the simulation results. This study provides many physical explanations and important conclusions for using adaptive optics to reduce the thermal blooming effect.
The Effective Use of Machine Learning in WorldView-2 Image for the Recognition of Two Forest Species in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest
Authors: Crisigiovanni Enzo Luigi , Filho Afonso Figueiredo , Pesck Vagner Alex , Lima Vanderlei Aparecido de 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: Tree species identification by satellite images facilitates the implementation of conservation and forest management measures. However, this recognition is complex in tropical forests, due to the high diversity of spectral responses of existing species, as well as the adjustment of efficient computer vision methods for the process. Method: In this work we tested the capacity of machine learning algorithms for attribute selection and data mining to recognize crowns of two forest species in the Mixed Rainforest, Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze endangered native species and Hovenia dulcis Thunb. an aggressive invasive alien species. For this we used, a fused WordView-2 (2016) image with 0.5 m of spatial resolution. The images of the crowns of the two tree species were cut by photo interpretation, using the compositions 8NIR-2, 3G, 2B and 5R, 3G, 2B. Color and texture descriptors (PHOG and Edge Filter) were applied to the clippings of the images. A genetic algorithm was used to optimize the attribute selection. The species classification was performed by the classifiers: Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Random Forest (RF), both bio-inspired algorithms.Result: The species classification was performed with high accuracy, evidenced by the high hit rate reaching 95% for Cross-Validation. RF surpassed the ANN classification rates and still proved to be more stable and faster for training and executing the algorithm and later species classification. It was concluded that the WorldView-2 multispectral sensor has the potential to provide sufficient information for the recognition of H. dulcis and A. angustifolia species, contributing to conservation and sustainable maintenance in the Araucaria Forest.
Prediction of Health Risk Potential Using Fuzzy Rule Base System for Indoor Work Environmental Condition in Dyeing and Printing House
Authors: Jariwala Dharmendra , Christian Robin A. , Jariwala Namrata D. 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
The physical work environment in any industry is dynamic and unpredictable. It highly influencing to the health, comfort and well being of the occupants. Work environmental condition can be evaluated by measuring four basic comfort parameters, which include thermal comfort, acoustic comfort, visual comfort and air change inside the working area. These parameters are the major contributing factors to the health of workers. Usage of heat and water in the different processes of textile dyeing and printing industry make the work environment hot and humid. Due to high thermal stress a wide range of disease and complications has been observed from mild disorder to heatstroke. Also, the high level of noise and the poor lighting condition has been impacting on the stress, absenteeism, turnover, production and output quality in the industry. Improper ventilation in the working area will affect the dispersion and dilution of the pollutants generated due to the processes. The parameters considered for evaluating comfort levels include wet bulb globe temperature index, illumination, noise and air changes in this study. Fuzzy rule base system approach had been used to predict worker’s health risk associated due to the impact of the work environment condition. The modeling process has been carried out with the help of MATLAB (R2014a) fuzzy tool box. Triangular membership function had been used for the input parameters. Linguistic variables were finalized by the expert opinion. Total 144 fuzzy rules had been developed based on the linguistic variable. Output obtain is in the terms of crisp value [0,1] is divided into four linguistic term low, moderate, high and very high. The study reveals that work environment condition in the textile dyeing and printing mills at various sections of the industry fall in the category of a high and very high risk condition because of prevailing poor work environmental condition at various locations. Thus, the workers working in these sections having very high potential to get the diseases related to a hot and humid environment.
Clinical Characteristics and Poor Predictors of Anti-NXP2 Antibody-Associated Chinese JDM Children
Authors: Wang Xinning , ding Yuchuan , Zhou Zhixuan , Hou Jun , Xu Yingjie , Li Jianguo 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background. Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare and sometimes fatal disease in children. The subtype of anti-NXP2 antibody-associated JDM is the leading cause of death in JDM, but there are no reports about clinical characteristics and high risk factors of poor prognosis. For the first time, we introduced the clinical characteristics and poor predictors of anti-NXP2 antibody-associated juvenile dermatomyositis in Chinese children.Methods. Twenty-six patients with anti-NXP2 antibody-related JDM from 85 JDM patients diagnosed from January 2016 to November 2019 were involved. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors for refractory cases and death.Results. The ratio of male to female was 9:17. The median age of onset was 4.5 (1–13) years. Twenty-four cases (92.3%) had rash and muscle weakness. Treatments included glucocorticoids, immunosuppressive agents, biological agents (7 cases), plasma exchange, Janus kinase inhibitor (7 cases) and autologous stem cell transplant (1 case). Eleven cases (11/26, 42.3%) were refractory JDM associated with edema, skin ulcer, muscle strength < = grade 3, CD4/CD8 ratio < 1.4 and SF > 200ug/ml. Among 6 cases (6/26, 23.1%) with severe gastrointestinal involvement, 5 cases died and 1 case survived after ASCT. The risk factors for gastrointestinal involvement and death were edema, skin ulcer, severe muscle weakness (Dysphagia/Hoarseness/Lower voice), BMI < 15 and ANA positive.Conclusions. Anti-NXP2 antibody-positive JDM of Chinese children was characterized by rash and severe muscle weakness. Edema, skin ulcer and severe muscle weakness predicted refractory and poor prognosis. Decreased CD4/CD8 ratio and high SF related with refractory cases, and very low BMI and ANA (+) predicted high risk of gastrointestinal involvement and death.
A New Anabolic compound, LLP2A-Ale, Reserves Periodontal Bone Loss in Mice Through Augmentation of Bone Formation
Authors: Yao Wei , Jiang Min , Liu Lixian , Liu Ruiwu , lam Kit S , Lane nancy e 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Aims. Currently, there are no effective medications that reverse periodontal disease (PD)-induced bone loss. The objective of this study was to test a new anabolic compound, LLP2A-Ale, or with the combination treatment of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC), in the treatment of bone loss secondary to PD. Martials and Methods. PD was induced in mice by placing a ligature around the second right molar. At one week after disease induction, the mice were treated with placebo, LLP2A-Ale, MSCs, or combination of LLP2A-Ale + MSCs, and euthanized at week 4. Results. We found that PD induced alveolar bone loss that was associated with reduced bone formation. LLP2A alone and in combination with MSCs sustained alveolar bone formation and reversed alveolar bone loss. Additionally, PD alone caused systemic inflammation and increased the circulating levels of G-CSF, IP-10, MIP-1a, and MIP2, which were suppressed by LLP2A-Ale +/- MSCs. LLP2A-Ale +/- MSCs increased bone formation at the peripheral skeletal site (distal femur), which was otherwise suppressed by PD. Conclusion. Our findings indicated that LLP2A-Ale treatment rescued alveolar bone loss caused by PD, primarily by increasing bone formation. LLP2A-Ale also attenuated the circulating levels of a series of inflammatory cytokines and reversed the PD-induced suppression of systemic bone formation.
Pre-Clinical Remote Undergraduate Medical Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey Study
Authors: Shahrvini BS Bita , Baxter  , Coffey Charles S. , MacDonald BA Bridget V. , Lander ScD Lina 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a sudden transition to remote learning in medical schools. We aimed to assess student perceptions of remote learning during the pre-clinical curricular training phase. Methods: A survey was distributed to first- and second-year medical students enrolled at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine in March 2020. Frequencies of responses to structured multiple-choice questions were compared regarding impacts of remote learning on quality of instruction and ability to participate, value of various remote learning resources, living environment, and preparedness for subsequent stages of training. Responses to open-ended questions about strengths and weaknesses of the remote curriculum and overall reflections were coded for thematic content.Results: Of 268 students enrolled, 104 responded (53.7% of first-year students and 23.9% of second-year students). Overall, students felt the quality of instruction and their ability to participate had been negatively affected. Most (64.1%) preferred the flexibility of learning material at their own pace. Only 25.5% of respondents still felt connected to the medical school or classmates. Most second-year students (56.7%) felt their preparation for the USMLE Step 1 exam was negatively affected and 43.3% felt unprepared to begin clerkships. In narrative responses, most appreciated the increased flexibility of remote learning but recognized that digital fatigue, decreased ability to participate, and lack of clinical skills and hands-on lab learning were notable deficits.Conclusions: Videocasted lectures uploaded in advance, electronic health record and telehealth training for students, and training for teaching faculty to increase technological fluency may be considered to optimize remote learning curricula.
Inflammatory olfactory neuropathy in two patients with Covid-19&nbsp;
Authors: Kirschenbaum Daniel , Imbach Lukas L. , Ulrich Silvia , Rushing Elisabeth Jane , Keller Emanuela , Reimann Regina R. , Frauenknecht Katrin B.M. , Lichtblau Mona , Witt Martin , Hummel Thomas , Steiger Peter , Aguzzi Adriano , Frontzek Karl 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged as a public health emergency recently, leading to fatal respiratory failure in a number of patients. The clinical manifestation of Covid-19 is manifold, cardio-respiratory symptoms and multiorgan failure being the most critical. Anosmia was reported to be an early symptom in a significant number of Covid-19 patients and is frequently the only symptom without underlying nasal congestion. Here we present neuropathological work-up of olfactory epithelium and associated olfactory nerves from two patients succumbing to Covid-19, one of which was anosmic. We show that SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with inflammation in the olfactory epithelium and leads to axonal damage in olfactory structures of the CNS - potentially explaining anosmic symptoms.
Screening Possible Drug Molecules for Covid-19. The Example of Vanadium (III/IV/V) Complex Molecules with Computational Chemistry and Molecular Docking.
Authors: Vlasiou Manos C. , Pafiti Kyriaki S. 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
After the Covid-19 pandemic and the aggressively infection control measures taken by the governments in the whole world, the need for a rapid pharmaceutical solution was more that necessary. The computer aided chemistry and molecular docking is a rapid tool to drug screening and investigation. Moreover, more metal based drugs are tested daily by research institutes for their antiviral activity. Here, we used theoretical studies on previously published biological active complex molecules of vanadium as an example of evaluating possible drug candidates before entering the laboratory. Our findings suggest that theoretical investigation should always precede on drug discovery.
Interactive Effects of Asparagine and Aspartate Homeostasis with Sex and Age for the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Authors: Luo Hui-Huan , Feng Xiao-Fei , Yang Xi-Lin , Fang Zhong-Ze 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background Asparagine and aspartate homeostasis link with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This study aimed to explore whether asparagine and aspartate metabolism interacted with sex and age to increase the risk of T2D.Methods From 27 May 2015 to 3 August 2016, we consecutively retrieved 1032 T2D patients and 1522 subjects without T2D from a tertiary care hospital in Liaoning, China. Restricted cubic spline nested in the logistic regression was used to draw odds ratio curves of plasma asparagine to aspartate ratio for T2D by sex and age. Cutoff point was select where curves went apart, indicating possible interaction. Addictive interactions of asparagine to aspartate ratio with sex or age and secondary interaction with copresence of unfavorable sex and age were further estimated using relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (S). Results Ratio of asparagine to aspartate >1.5 was associated with elevated risk of T2D (OR: 7.99, 95%CI: 5.50 to 11.6), which was enhanced by female gender to 13.6, (95%CI: 8.10-22.9) and by >50 years of age to 28.7 (14.6-56.3), with significant additive interactions. There was a significant secondary-interaction of copresence of female sex and > 50 years of age with high asparagine to aspartate ratio for increased T2D risk with the OR being further increased to 34.4 (20.5 - 57.5). Conclusions High asparagine to aspartate ratio was associated with markedly increased risk of T2D, which was further amplified by either female gender or >50 years of age, and especially both.
C3-Glomerulonephritis in New Zealand – A Case Series
Authors: Sutherland Luke J , Talreja Hari 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: C3-glomerulonephritis can lead to progressive renal impairment from complement-mediated glomerular injury. Incidence and outcomes of C3-glomerulonephritis are not known in the New Zealand population. Methods: We reviewed all cases of C3-glomerulonephritis from the past 10 years at a tertiary referral centre in New Zealand. Descriptive information on baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes was collected. Results: 26 patients were included (16 men; mean±SD age 44±25 years) with a median follow-up of 30 months. Disease incidence was 1.3 cases per million individuals, of which 42% were Pacific Islanders. Most patients presented with renal impairment, with a median (IQR) creatinine at diagnosis of 210 (146-300) µmol/L, and nephrotic-range proteinuria with a protein/creatinine ratio of 551.5 (293-983) mg/mmol. 8 (31%) patients progressed to end stage renal disease and 2 (8%) had died. End stage renal disease occurred in 25% of patients treated with immunosuppression and in 50% of those not treated. Complete remission was seen in 25% of patients treated with some form of immunosuppression and in 17% of those not treated. Conclusions: Our results are consistent with previous descriptions of C3-glomerulonephritis. There was a suggestion of better clinical outcomes in patients treated with immunosuppression. There was a higher disease incidence in Pacific Islanders, which may indicate an underlying susceptibility to complement dysfunction in this population.
Social Media use and Sexual Behaviour of Undergraduate Students in a Nigerian University
Authors: Uzobo Endurance , Enoch Ruth Ovieakini 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
While studies have generally explored the implication of social media on education, crime, and communication, there is a paucity of studies exploring the influence of social media on sexual behaviour. Thus, this study aims to investigate the role of social media on sexual behaviour among 195 undergraduate students in the Niger Delta University, Bayelsa, Nigeria. This cross-sectional study was anchored on the uses and gratification theory (UGT). Data for this study were generated through the use of a structured questionnaire, while data analysis was done at the univariate, bivariate and multivariate levels. Findings shows that the average age of students was 22.72. Also, the study found out that the use of WhatsApp (OR = 15.349, p<0.05), Instagram (OR = 0.254, p<0.05), time spent on the social media (OR = 0.123, p<0.05) were significantly associated with high-risk sexual behaviour in model I. While relationship status (OR = 24.289, p<0.01) was associated with high-risk sexual behaviour in model II. The study, therefore, concluded that the use of social media influences the sexual behaviour of undergraduate. Hence, the study recommended sex education to help expose undergraduate students to the dangers involved in spending excessive time on social media.
Molecular Identification of Native Wolbachia Pipientis in Anopheles Minimus in a Low-Malaria Transmission Area of Umphang Valley Along the Thailand-Myanmar Border
Authors: Tongkrajang Nongnat , Ruenchit Pichet , Tananchai Chatchai , Chareonviriyaphap Theeraphap , Kulkeaw Kasem 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
BackgroundWolbachia, obligate intracellular bacteria, infect the majority of arthropods, including many mosquito species of medical importance. Some Wolbachia strains interfere with the development of Plasmodium parasites in female Anopheles, a major vector of malaria. The use of Wolbachia as a means to block malaria transmission is an emerging vector control strategy in highly endemic areas. Hence, identification of native Wolbachia strains in areas where malaria transmission is low may uncover a particular Wolbachia strain capable of Plasmodium interference. This study aims to identify native Wolbachia strains in female Anopheles spp. that are predominant in a low-malaria transmission area in mainland Southeast Asia.MethodsFollowing a two-year survey of malaria vectors in Umphang Valley of Tak Province, Thailand, DNA extracts of female An. minimus, An. peditaeniatus, An. maculatus, and An. dirus were subjected to amplification of the conserved region of the 16S rRNA-encoding gene. The DNA sequences of the amplicons were phylogenetically compared with those of known Wolbachia strains.ResultsAmong four Anopheles spp., amplification was detected in only the DNA samples from An. minimus. The DNA sequencing of amplicons revealed 100% similarity to Wolbachia pipientis, confirming the specificity of amplification. The phylogenetic trees indicate a close relationship with Wolbachia strains in subgroup B.ConclusionTo the best of our knowledge, the data presented herein provide the first molecular evidence of a Wolbachia strain in An. minimus, hereinafter named wAnmi, in a low-malaria transmission area in the Umphang Valley of western Thailand. Further biological characterization is required to examine its potential for malaria transmission control in the field.