bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association mapping identifies quantitative trait loci (QTL) for digestibility in rice straw
Authors: Nguyen Duong T. , Gomez Leonardo D. , Harper Andrea , Halpin Claire , Waugh Robbie , Simister Rachael , Whitehead Caragh , Oakey Helena , Nguyen Huong T. , Nguyen Tuat V. , Duong Tu X. , McQueen-Mason Simon J. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
The conversion of lignocellulosic biomass from agricultural waste into biofuels and chemicals is considered a promising way to provide sustainable low carbon products without compromising food security. However, the use of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel and chemical production is limited by the cost-effectiveness of the production process due to its recalcitrance to enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentable sugar release (i.e., saccharification). Rice straw is a particularly attractive feedstock because millions of tons are currently burned in the field each year for disposal. The aim of this study was to explore the underlying natural genetic variation that impacts the recalcitrance of rice (Oryza sativa) straw to enzymatic saccharification. Ultimately, we wanted to investigate whether we could identify genetic markers that could be used in rice breeding to improve commercial cultivars for this trait. Here, we describe the development and characterization of a Vietnamese rice genome-wide association panel, high-throughput analysis of rice straw saccharification and lignin content, and the results from preliminary genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of the combined data sets. We identify both QTL and plausible candidate genes that may have an impact on the saccharification of rice straw.

Results
We assembled a diversity panel comprising 151 rice genotypes (Indica and Japonica types) from commercial, historical elite cultivars, and traditional landraces grown in Vietnam. The diversity panel was genotyped using genotype by sequencing (GBS) methods yielding a total of 328,915 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We collected phenotypic data from stems of these 151 genotypes for biomass saccharification and lignin content. Using GWAS on the indica genotypes over 2 years we identified ten significant QTL for saccharification (digestibility) and seven significant QTL for lignin. One QTL on chromosome 11 occurred in both GWAS for digestibility and for lignin. Seven QTL for digestibility, on CH2, CH6, CH7, CH8, and CH11, were observed in both years of the study. The QTL regions for saccharification include three potential candidate genes that have been previously reported to influence digestibility: OsAT10; OsIRX9; and OsMYB58/63-L.

Conclusions
Despite the difficulties associated with multi-phasic analysis of complex traits in novel germplasm, a moderate resolution GWAS successfully identified genetic associations encompassing both known and/or novel genes involved in determining the saccharification potential and lignin content of rice straw. Plausible candidates within QTL regions, in particular those with roles in cell wall biosynthesis, were identified but will require validation to confirm their value for application in rice breeding.
Unusual case of classic testicular seminoma in a 90-year-old patient: a case report
Authors: Al-Mousa Ahmad , Shashaa Mohammad Nour , Alkarrash Mohamad Shadi , Alkhamis Mohamad , Ghabreau Lina , Dandal Mouhsen 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
Seminoma is the most common subtype of testicular cancer and occurs most commonly in patients aged 30–49 years, but decreases to a very low level in men in their 60s or older.

Case presentation
A 90-year-old Syrian man with a 6-year history of an increase in size of his right scrotum, presented to the urological clinic and, on clinical examination, the findings suggested testicular tumor. After orchiectomy and histology results based on microscopic and immunohistochemical examinations, a pure seminoma was diagnosed, so we describe in this case report the second-oldest patient with classical seminoma in the medical literature.

Conclusion
This case report has been written to focus on the probability of any type of testicular tumor occurring at any age or decade; urologists should consider seminoma as a differential diagnosis with any testicular swelling even in elderly patients.
Image completion via transformation and structural constraints
Authors: Chen Qiaochuan , Li Guangyao , Xiao Qingguo , Xie Li , Xiao Mang 
Published: October 2020

AbstractImage completion is an approach to fill a damaged region (hole) in an image. In this study, we adopt a novel method which can repair a target region with structural constraints in an architectural scene. An objective function that consists of three terms is proposed to solve the image completion problem. In color term, we compute a parameterized transformation model using detected plane parameters and measure the distance between the target patch and transformed source patch. This model helps to extend the patch search space and find an optimal solution. To improve the patch matching accuracy, we add a guide term that includes structure term and consistency term. The structure term encourages sampling patches along the structural direction, and the consistency term is used to maintain the texture consistency. Considering the color deviation between patches, we add a gradient term into a framework that can solve more challenging problems. Compared with previous methods, the proposed method has good performance in preserving global structure and reasonably estimating perspective distortions. Moreover, we obtain acceptable results in natural scenes. The experimental results illustrate that this novel method is a potential tool for image completion.
A tripled fixed point technique for solving a tripled-system of integral equations and Markov process in CCbMS
Authors: Hammad Hasanen A. , De La Sen Manuel 
Published: October 2020

AbstractWe prove the existence of tripled fixed points (TFPs) of a new generalized nonlinear contraction mapping in complete coneb-metric spaces (CCbMSs). Also, we present some exciting consequences as corollaries and three nontrivial examples. Finally, we find a solution for a tripled-system of integral equations (TSIE) and discussed a unique stationary distribution for the Markov process (SDMP).
Heart rate at discharge in patients with acute decompensated heart failure is a predictor of mortality
Authors: Vollmert Thomas , Hellmich Martin , Gassanov Natig , Er Fikret , Yücel Seyrani , Erdmann Erland , Caglayan Evren 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Aims
Heart failure is a syndrome with increasing prevalence in concordance with the aging population and better survival rates from myocardial infarction. Morbidity and mortality are high in chronic heart failure patients, particularly in those with hospital admission for acute decompensation. Several risk stratification tools and score systems have been established to predict mortality in chronic heart failure patients. However, identification of patients at risk with easy obtainable clinical factors that can predict mortality in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) are needed to optimize the care-path.

Methods and results
We retrospectively analyzed electronic medical records of 78 patients with HFrEF and HFmrEF who were hospitalized with ADHF in the Heart Center of the University Hospital Cologne in the year 2011 and discharged from the ward after successful treatment. 37.6 ± 16.4 months after index hospitalization 30 (38.5%) patients had died. This mortality rate correlated well with the calculated predicted survival with the Seattle Heart Failure Model (SHFM) for each individual patient. In our cohort, we identified elevated heart rate at discharge as an independent predictor for mortality (p = 0.016). The mean heart rate at discharge was lower in survived patients compared to patients who died (72.5 ± 11.9 vs. 79.1 ± 11.2 bpm. Heart rate of 77 bpm or higher was associated with an almost doubled mortality risk (p = 0.015). Heart rate elevation of 5 bpm was associated with an increase of mortality of 25% (p = 0.022).

Conclusions
Patients hospitalized for ADHF seem to have a better prognosis, when heart rate at discharge is < 77 bpm. Heart rate at discharge is an easily obtainable biomarker for risk prediction of mortality in HFrEF and HFmrEF patients treated for acute cardiac decompensation. Taking into account this parameter could be useful for guiding treatment strategies in these high-risk patients. Prospective data for validation of this biomarker and specific intervention are needed.
Setting up a quantitative SPECT imaging network for a European multi-centre dosimetry study of radioiodine treatment for thyroid cancer as part of the MEDIRAD project
Authors: Taprogge Jan , Leek Francesca , Schurrat Tino , Tran-Gia Johannes , Vallot Delphine , Bardiès Manuel , Eberlein Uta , Lassmann Michael , Schlögl Susanne , Vergara Gil Alex ,   the MEDIRAD WP3 Investigator Team, Buck Andreas , Clayton Naomi , Courbon Frédéric , Lapa Constantin , Luster Markus , Mora-Ramirez Erick , Newbold Kate , Schumann Sarah , Verburg Frederik , Vija Lavinia , Zerdoud Slimane , Flux Glenn D. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
Differentiated thyroid cancer has been treated with radioiodine for almost 80 years, although controversial questions regarding radiation-related risks and the optimisation of treatment regimens remain unresolved. Multi-centre clinical studies are required to ensure recruitment of sufficient patients to achieve the statistical significance required to address these issues. Optimisation and standardisation of data acquisition and processing are necessary to ensure quantitative imaging and patient-specific dosimetry.

Material and methods
A European network of centres able to perform standardised quantitative imaging of radioiodine therapy of thyroid cancer patients was set-up within the EU consortium MEDIRAD. This network will support a concurrent series of clinical studies to determine accurately absorbed doses for thyroid cancer patients treated with radioiodine. Five SPECT(/CT) systems at four European centres were characterised with respect to their system volume sensitivity, recovery coefficients and dead time.

Results
System volume sensitivities of the Siemens Intevo systems (crystal thickness 3/8″) ranged from 62.1 to 73.5 cps/MBq. For a GE Discovery 670 (crystal thickness 5/8″) a system volume sensitivity of 92.2 cps/MBq was measured. Recovery coefficients measured on three Siemens Intevo systems show good agreement. For volumes larger than 10 ml, the maximum observed difference between recovery coefficients was found to be ± 0.02. Furthermore, dead-time coefficients measured on two Siemens Intevo systems agreed well with previously published dead-time values.

Conclusions
Results presented here provide additional support for the proposal to use global calibration parameters for cameras of the same make and model. This could potentially facilitate the extension of the imaging network for further dosimetry-based studies.
The outcome of COVID-19 among the geriatric age group in African countries: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tadesse Degena Bahrey , Wahdey Shishay , Negash Melaku , Ayele Ebud , Haile Teklehaimanot Gereziher , Kiros Kbrom Gemechu , Tesfamichael Yohannes Ashebir , Gebrekidan Kiros Belay 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the outbreak of coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19) has been declared as a pandemic and public health emergency that infected more than 5 million people worldwide at the time of writing this protocol. Strong evidence for the outcome of COVID-19 among the geriatric age group has not been published in Africa. Therefore, this protocol will be served as a guideline to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the outcome of COVID-19 among the geriatric age group in Africa.

Methods
Published and unpublished studies on the outcome of COVID-19 among the geriatric age group in Africa and written in any language will be included. Databases (PubMed / MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Google, EMBASE, Web of Science, Microsoft Academic, WHO COVID-19 database, Cochran Library, Africa Wide Knowledge, and Africa Index Medicus) from March to August 2020 will be searched. Two independent reviewers will select, screen, extract data, and assess the risk of bias. The proportion will be measured using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis will be conducted to manage heterogeneity. The presence of publication bias will be assessed using Egger’s test and visual inspection of the funnel plots. This systematic and meta-analysis review protocol will be reported per the PRISMA-P guidelines.

Conclusion
This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol will be expected to quantify the outcome of COVID-19 among the geriatric age group in Africa.

Systematic review registration
This protocol was submitted for registration with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) in April 2020 and accepted with the registration number: (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO). CRD42020180600.
Implementation of a trauma-informed, evidence-informed intervention for Latinx families experiencing interpersonal violence and child maltreatment: protocol for a pilot randomized control trial of SafeCare+®
Authors: Fettes Danielle L. , Aarons Gregory A. , Brew Valerie , Ledesma Karla , Silovsky Jane 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
A consistently demonstrated overlap exists between the occurrence of domestic violence and child maltreatment, yet these issues are historically addressed by distinct systems and programming. The randomized control trial pilot study presented in this article adapts, implements, and tests a new approach for addressing family violence for Latinx families with co-occurring risk for domestic violence and child maltreatment. In doing so, this pilot study addresses the clear need for collaboration between the two fields and focuses on Latinx families, who often face specific challenges regarding seeking and receiving needed services. The primary aim of the current study is a pilot implementation of SafeCare+®, an evidence-based parenting curriculum (SafeCare®) augmented with a healthy relationships curriculum (SafeCare+®). The objectives are a reduction of family violence, improved communication, and a healthy home environment for children in Latinx families with co-occurring domestic violence and child maltreatment.

Methods
This protocol outlines a feasibility, randomized control trial to examine the potential efficacy of SafeCare+. The pilot study is divided into two phases. Components of phase one involve developing a detailed implementation and evaluation plan, including a community needs assessment, determining screening and outcome measures, and assuring all components are culturally appropriate for the target population. Phase two implements the randomization of parents, who are involved in the child welfare system and referred for in-home parenting services, into SafeCare+ or SafeCare as usual. Participants complete assessments regarding mental health, provider-parent relationship, interpersonal violence experiences, and fidelity to the intervention. Analyses will focus on improvement on target outcomes for the intervention group, as well as comparison to the control group.

Discussion
This study will provide evidence on the feasibility and potential effectiveness of an early intervention program aimed at improving communication skills and mental health and reducing incidents of violence for Latinx parents who are involved with the child welfare service system. The findings of the study will inform the decision to progress to a full scale, definitive randomized control trial to test the effectiveness of an intervention, delivered as part of home visitation, for improving outcomes for families with histories of domestic violence.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03041558; registered 2 February, 2017—retrospectively registered.
Fecal carriage and factors associated with extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae among pregnant women at the tertiary referral hospital, Tanzania
Authors: Mwandigha Ambele M. , Kamori Doreen , Kibwana Upendo O. , Masoud Salim , Manyahi Joel , Majigo Mtebe 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
Infections due to extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) are increasing worldwide. Evidence indicates that fecal carriage of ESBL-E in pregnancy predisposes women to potential life-threatening urinary tract infections and subsequently increasing the risk of neonatal infections. There is limited data regarding fecal carriage of ESBL-E and associated factors among pregnant women in Tanzania. We aimed to address the gap by determining the proportion of pregnant women with ESBL-E fecal carriage and identify the related factors.

Methodology
A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A total of 182 pregnant women at the gestational age of 37 weeks and above were enrolled. Participants’ socio-demographic, clinical, and hygienic information were collected by using a well-structured questionnaire. Rectal swabs were collected and processed for isolation of ESBL-E. The extended-spectrum β-lactamase production and antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) were performed using a double-disc synergy test and Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, respectively.

Results
A total of 117 (64.3%) pregnant women were found to carry ESBL-E. Factors such as self-prescription of antibiotic medication during pregnancy, low education level, and toilet sharing were independently associated with ESBL-E fecal carriage. Five ESBL-E species that were isolated include Escherichia coli (84.6%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (8.9%), Klebsiella oxytoca (3.3%), Citrobacter spp. (1.6%), and Enterobacter spp. (1.6%). ESBL-E isolates demonstrated high resistance to aztreonam and sulphamethoxazole-trimethoprim.

Conclusion
This study has revealed a relatively high fecal carriage of ESBL-E among pregnant women, suggesting that there is a need for routine screening among that population. We recommend further studies to explore comprehensively the factors associated with high fecal carriage of ESBL-E in pregnancy and the potential transmission kinetics to their newborn babies.
Chemical composition and in vitro digestibility of some selected under-utilized tropical seeds as protein sources in ruminants’ diet
Authors: Omotoso Oluwatosin Bode , Adeduntan Mary Oluwafunmilayo , Fajemisin Adebowale Noah 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
The study highlighted the potential of three common and under-utilized tropical leguminous seeds (Tomentosa nilotica, Dioclea reflexa and Monodora myristica) to be used as supplementary feed to ruminant livestock. These seeds (their plants inclusive) are valuable sources of food and medicine for the prevention of illness and maintenance of human health. The medicinal properties of these seeds include antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and immuno-stimulant. Trypsin inhibitors, which are common anti-nutritional factors in legumes and for monogastric animals, do not exert adverse effects in ruminants because they are degraded in the rumen. Hence, the crux of this study is to examine the effect of processing methods on the nutritional composition (proximate, fibre fractions, minerals, anti-nutrients) and in vitro digestibility of Tomentosa nilotica, Dioclea reflexa and Monodora myristica seeds and their suitability as feedstuff (protein sources) in small ruminant feed, particularly during off-season.

Results
From the results, raw Tomentosa nilotica and Monodora myristica have the highest crude protein (30.35% CP) and fat (22.40% EE), respectively. It is noteworthy that roasting best improve the mineral and significantly reduce the anti-nutrients observed in this study better compared to boiling and soaking methods. The highest organic matter digestibility, short-chain fatty acids, metabolizable energy and in vitro dry matter digestibility values were obtained in Dioclea reflexa compared to other test seeds. Roasting best improved the nutritive values, while Dioclea reflexa seed was rated highest for all the nutritional attributes and in vitro digestibility.

Conclusions
Dioclea reflexa could be incorporated in ruminants’ diet as protein source, particularly during the off-season, for improved ruminant production in Nigeria. However, in vivo study is therefore recommended to validate this report.
Dural tear from diagnostic lumbar puncture followed by long-term morbidity: a case report
Authors: Haugstvedt Aleksander Fjeld , Havsteen Inger Birgitte , Christensen Hanne 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
Lumbar punctures are performed in different medical settings and are a key procedure in the diagnosis of several neurological conditions. Complications are rare and generally self-limiting. There are no reports of symptomatic accumulation of fluid in the epidural space after lumbar puncture in adults and there are no studies on long-term outcome after post dural puncture headache (PDPH).

Case
A lumbar puncture was performed in a 29 y.o. slender woman with unspecific symptoms to rule out neuro-infection. Next day MRI showed substantial accumulation of CSF in the epidural space from C2 to the sacrum dislocating the spinal chord in the spinal canal. The condition was ameliorated by epidural blood-patching. At 5 months she was still impaired by severe orthostatic headache.

Conclusions
The only plausible explanation for the massive CSF leak was a dural tear occurring during multiple attempts of lumbar puncture. Anterior dislocation of the spinal chord due to CSF leak is not a recognised complication to lumbar puncture. This complication was followed by long-term disability in our case. The diagnosis can be made by MRI. A difficult procedure with several attempts and use of traumatic technique may increase risk of this complication.
Optimization of inulin production process parameters using response surface methodology
Authors: Akram Wasim , Garud Navneet 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background
Chicory is one of the major source of inulin. In our study, Box–Behnken model/response surface analysis (RSM) was used for the optimization of spray drying process variables to get the maximum inulin yield from chicory (Cichorium intybus L.). For this investigation, the investigational plan utilized three process variables drying temperature (115–125 °C), creep speed (20–24 rpm), and pressure (0.02–0.04 MPa).

Result
The optimal variables established by applying the Box–Behnken model were as follows: drying temperature 119.20 °C, creep speed 21.64 rpm, and pressure 0.03 MPa. The obtained powdered inulin by spray drying was investigated for the yield value, identification, size, and surface morphology of the particle. The inulin obtained from the spray drying process consists of a fine molecule-sized white powder. Instead, the drying methods shows a significant effect on the morphology and internal configuration of the powdered inulin, as the inulin obtained from spray drying was of a widespread and uniform size and shape, with a rough surface on increase in temperature and smoother surface while increasing the creep speed. The findings indicate that the spray drying with optimum parameters resulted in maximum product yield.

Conclusion
The outcomes of the study concluded that the product yield through spray drying technique under optimized condition is optimal as compared to other drying technique. Hence, this technique may be applied at commercial scale for the production of inulin.