bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization Algorithm of Infrared-Polarization Image Fusion Based on Fireworks Algorithm
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Lu Gaoxiang , Cai Wei , Qiao Danqiu , Song Junchen 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Because of the shortcomings of traditional infrared-polarization image fusion algorithm, such as low intelligence and single optimization index, this paper proposes an intelligent infrared-polarization image fusion optimization algorithm based on fireworks algorithm. Firstly, an improved differential image correction method based on single pixel nonuniformity is proposed to remove the cold reflection. The two-dimensional discrete cosine transform (DCT) is used to reduce the image sensitivity and improve the robustness, and the Stokes vector formula is used to obtain the polarization characteristic image. Secondly, based on the strong complementarity between infrared-intensity image and degree of linear-polarization (DOLP) image and the explosive optimization of fireworks algorithm, the problem model of weighted fusion algorithm is established, and the fitness function based on root mean square error (RMSE) is constructed to calculate the optimal weight of source image. In the fusion experiment of long-wave infrared-intensity image and DOLP image, this method is compared with the common fusion algorithms. The results show that this method can effectively fuse the infrared-intensity and degree of polarization information, and the evaluation indexes of standard deviation, spatial frequency, mutual information, structural similarity, peak signal-to-noise ratio and information entropy of the fusion image are better than the comparison algorithm. In the future, cooperated with the long-wave infrared-polarization imaging system, this method can be applied to improve the infrared detection ability in complex environment.
Unilateral versus bilateral pedicle screw fixation with oblique lateral interbody fusion in the treatment of multi-level degenerative lumbar disease: a prospective study
Authors: Cai Zecheng , Zhang Jianqun , Yang Shulong , Liu Xiaoyin , Chen Zhen , Ma Rong , Liang Simin , Ding Xiaoli , Ma Zongjun , Wu Peng , Ge Zhaohui 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) combined with unilateral (UPSF) and bilateral pedicle screw fixation (BPSF) in the treatment of multi-level degenerative lumbar disease (LDD).Methods: We conducted a prospective study from May 2016 to June 2018. A total of 81 LDD patients were randomized into groups. The first group involving 39 patients received OLIF combined with USPF (UPS group), and the second group of 41 patients received OLIF combined with BPSF (BPS group). The perioperative conditions included intraoperative bleeding, operating time, average hospital stay, and hospitalization expenses. The clinical outcomes included Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and complications. Moreover, the radiological outcomes included disc height, fusion rate, and cage subsidence rate. These perioperative conditions, clinical outcomes, and radiological conditions of the two study groups were evaluated and compared. All the patients were followed up for 24 to 28 months, with an average follow-up time of 26 months.Results: The intraoperative bleeding, operating time, and hospitalization expenses of the UPS group were significantly less compared with those of the BPS group. Compared with preoperatively, the VAS and ODI scores of the two groups were improved significantly after the operation. At 6 months after operation, the VAS score for back pain and ODI of the UPS group were better than in the BPS group (P < 0.05). Both groups were able to maintain the intervertebral space height of the fusion segment, and there was no significant difference in the fusion rate at the 24 months. There were no significant differences in complications. At the 24 months, there was no significant difference in the cage subsidence of the fusion segment between the two groups. Finally, there was no loose screw and screw fracture in both groups.Conclusions: OLIF combined with UPSF is an effective and reliable surgical method for the treatment of multilevel LDD.
Maps and Metrics of Insecticide-Treated Net Coverage in Africa: Access, Use, and Nets-Per-Capita, 2000-2020
Authors: Bertozzi-Villa Amelia , Bever Caitlin , Koenker Hannah , Weiss Daniel , Vargas-Ruiz Camilo , Nandi Anita , Gibson Harry , Harris Joseph , Battle Katherine , Rumisha Susan , Keddie Suzanne , Amratia Punam , Arambepola Rohan , Cameron Ewan , Chestnutt Elisabeth , Collins Emma , Millar Justin , Mishra Swapnil , Rozier Jennifer , Symons Tasmin , Twohig Katherine , Hollingsworth Deirdre , Gething Peter , Bhatt Samir 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are one of the most widespread and impactful malaria interventions in Africa, yet a spatially-resolved time series of ITN coverage has never been published. Using data from multiple sources, we generate high-resolution maps of ITN access, use, and nets-per-capita annually from 2000 to 2020 across the 40 highest-burden African countries. Our findings support several existing hypotheses: that use is high among those with access, that nets are discarded more quickly than official policy presumes, and that effectively distributing nets grows more difficult as coverage increases. These results can inform both policy decisions and downstream malaria analyses.
Compared to Odorant-binding Proteins in the Reproductive System and Antennae of Athetis Dissimilis using Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Song Yue-Qin , Song Zhi-Yu , Dong Jun-Feng , Lv Qi-Hui , Chen Qing-Xiao , Sun Hui Zhong 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) are prevalent in the antennal transcriptomes of different orders of insects. Studies on OBPs have focused on their role in the insect chemosensory system, but knowledge of their functions in the insect testis is limited. We sequenced the transcriptomes of the Athetis dissimilis reproductive organs and analyzed the expressive of OBPs in different tissues. We identified 23 OBPs in the testis and ovaries and 31 OBPs in antennal transcriptomes. The results of real-time quantitative PCR revealed that 23 of the 54 OBP genes were highly expressed in both female and male antennae, including three that exhibited male-biased expression and 15 that exhibited female-biased expression. A total of 24 OBPs were highly expressed in the testis of A. dissimilis, while expression of OBPs in the ovaries was very low. These findings highlight the functional diversity of OBPs in insects and can facilitate further studies on the OBPs in A. dissimilis and lepidopteran species.
Differential Response to Scrambler Therapy by Neuropathic Pain Phenotypes
Authors: Min Young Gi , Baek Hyun Seok , Lee Kyoung-Min , Hong Yoon-Ho 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Scrambler therapy is a novel noninvasive electroanalgesia technique designed to remodulate the pain system. Despite growing evidence of its efficacy in patients with neuropathic pain, little is known about the clinical factors associated with treatment outcome. We conducted a prospective, open-label, single-arm trial to assess the efficacy and safety of scrambler therapy in patients with chronic neuropathic pain of various etiologies. A post-hoc analysis was performed to investigate whether cluster analysis of the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory profiles could identify a subgroup of patients regarding neuropathic pain phenotype and treatment outcome. Scrambler therapy resulted in a significant decrease in the pain numerical rating scale (NRS) score over 2 weeks of treatment (least squares mean of percentage change from baseline, −15%; 95% CI, −28% to −2.4%; p < 0.001). The mean score of Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) interference subdimension was also significantly improved (p = 0.022), while the BPI pain composite score was not. Hierarchical clustering partitioned the patients into 3 clusters with distinct neuropathic pain phenotypes. Linear mixed-effects model analyses revealed differential response to scrambler therapy across clusters (p = 0.003, pain NRS; p = 0.072, BPI interference subdimension). Treatment response to scrambler therapy appears different depending on the pain-related sensory profile, with more favorable outcomes in patients with preferentially paroxysmal pain rather than persistent pain. Further studies are warranted to confirm that capturing neuropathic pain phenotypes can optimize the use of scrambler therapy.
Spin Seebeck Effect of Correlated Magnetic Molecules
Authors: Manaparambil Anand , Weymann Ireneusz 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In this paper we investigate the spin-resolved thermoelectric properties of strongly correlated molecular junctions in the linear response regime. The magnetic molecule is modeled by a single orbital level to which the molecular core spin is attached by an exchange interaction. Using the numerical renormalization group method we analyze the behavior of the (spin) Seebeck effect, heat conductance and figure of merit for different model parameters of the molecule. We show that the thermopower strongly depends on the strength and type of the exchange interaction as well as the molecule's magnetic anisotropy. When the molecule is coupled to ferromagnetic leads, the thermoelectric properties reveal an interplay between the spin-resolved tunneling processes and intrinsic magnetic properties of the molecule. Moreover, in the case of finite spin accumulation in the leads, the system exhibits the spin Seebeck effect. We demonstrate that a considerable spin Seebeck effect can develop when the molecule exhibits an easy-plane magnetic anisotropy, while the sign of the spin thermopower depends on the type and magnitude of the molecule's exchange interaction.
Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase Producing Enterobacteriaceae in Community Patients in Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Onduru Onduru G. , Mkakosya Rajhab S. , Aboud Said , Rumisha Susan F. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background

Antimicrobial resistance due to production of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) by Enterobacteriaceae is a global health problem contributing to increased morbidity and mortality particularly in resource-constrained countries. We examined in the current study the prevalence of extended spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) in community patients in Blantyre, Malawi.
Methods

This was a cross sectional study conducted between March and September 2020 at selected outpatient health facilities in Blantyre, Malawi. Clinical samples were first screened for ESBL-E using CHROMagar™ ESBL medium and later confirmed by a combination disk test method (CDT). The isolates were identified to species level using a commercially acquired biochemical substrate strips (Microbact™ GNB, Oxoid). Descriptive summary statistics were generated as frequencies and proportions. Chi square or Fishers Exact tests and student’s t-test were used where appropriate. Association between variables was determined by logistic regression analysis. Results were presented as odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant.
Results

A total of 199 rectal swabs and 101 urine samples from 300 outpatient adults were screened for ESBL-E. Of these, seventy three (24.33%; 95%, CI = 19.45–29.22%) gave positive culture. Prevalence of community acquired ESBL-E was 16.67% (50/300, 95% CI = 12.43–20.91%). The most common ESBL-E species isolated were Escherichia coli (66%). Community prevalence of ESBL-E was higher in male 56% (28/50) compared to female 44% (22/50) patients. Prevalence of ESBL-E was higher in community patients who lacked history of surgery 88% (44/50) and prior history of antibiotic use in the last three months 80% (40/50) compared to those with same characteristics. All community patients with isolated ESBL-E had no history of admission in the last three months and neither demographic characteristics nor clinical characteristics of participants showed any degree of association with the carriage of ESBL-E.
Conclusion

Our findings revealed moderate presence of ESBL-E phenotypes in a community patients who lacked history of hospital admissions in the past three months an indication of community acquisition of ESBL-E in Blantyre, Malawi. Low prevalence of ESBL-E in the community settings in Blantyre can be maintained if strong infection and antimicrobial use control strategies are to be implemented.
Time to Sputum Smear Conversion and Its Predictors Among Smear-Positive Pulmonary TB Patients in East Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: A Longitudinal Study.
Authors: Asemahagn Mulusew Andualem 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Sputum smear conversion is a key indicator of treatment response and reduced infectivity among smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (SPPTB). This study aimed at estimating sputum smear conversion time and identifying factors hindering sputum smear conversion among SPPTB patients in East Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A total of 282 SPPTB patients were followed for 22 weeks through weekly sputum smear evaluation. Due to the absence of sputum culture and rapid diagnostic services, sputum smear conversion evaluation was conducted microscopically using acid-fast-bacilli staining technique of sediments from a 5% sodium hypochlorite concentration technique. Data on socio-demographic, clinical profile, and personal behavior variables were collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Various descriptive statistics including mean, median with interquartile range (IQR), proportions, and cross-tabulations were computed. Factors affecting sputum smear conversion were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis. The statistical significance of variables was determined at a p-value < 0.05. Results: Over half, 166(59%) of SPPTB cases were males and 147(52%) were rural dwellers. The mean age of respondents was 35±5SD years. About 88(31.2%) of SPPTB patients had comorbidities, 102(36.2%) faced stigma, and 54(19%) smoked a cigarette. The median sputum smear conversion time at the end of the intensive phase was 35 days (IQR: 21 -56 days). The majority, 85% (95%CI: 76% -93%) and 95% (95% CI: 85% -99%) of SPPTB patients underwent sputum smear conversion at the end of 2nd and 5th months of treatment, respectively. Poor knowledge on TB, being HIV positive, higher smear grading, having diabetes mellitus, undernutrition, cigarette smoking, facing societal stigma, and TB service delay were positively associated with the length of sputum smear conversion. Conclusion: Although the treatment success rate was 95%, the median sputum smear conversion time was higher compared to the TB program expectations and some former studies. Factors of sputum smear conversion were related to nutritional status, smear grading, comorbidity status, knowledge on TB, personal behavior, stigma, and TB service delay. Improving the health literacy of the community by revising the existing community awareness strategies is essential to enhance treatment adherence and lower infectiousness after treatment initiation.
Physiological and transcriptomic analyses of the effects of SlBRI1 expression levels on drought tolerance in tomato seedlings
Authors: Nie Shuming , Yang Zaijun , Wang Dan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Brassinosteroids (BRs) not only influence plant growth and development but also regulate the various stress responses of plants. BRASSINOSTEROID-INSENSITIVE 1 (BRI1) acts as a BR receptor, sensing the BRs and then activating BR signaling. In this study, how SlBRI1 regulate the drought resistance of tomato have further been researched at physiological and transcriptomic level. Results: We obtained SlBRI1-overexpressing and SlBRI1 weak mutant (abs) plants in the same background to research the underlying mechanism in drought resistance. In this study, physiological analyses revealed that abs plants had a higher net photosynthetic rate and less wilting than MM plants; abs plants also had lower H2O2 and O2− accumulation through higher antioxidant enzyme activities under drought conditions. RNA-Seq analysis showed that 768 (53.9%) of 1425 drought-induced genes and 418 (49.8%) of 840 drought-repressed genes were regulated by abs in the same direction under normal conditions. Moreover, 158 drought-induced and 43 drought-repressed genes are further upregulated and downregulated in abs plants under drought conditions, respectively. An in-depth analysis of these DEGs revealed that abs regulated the expression of genes related to ABA metabolism and polyamine biosynthesis as well as oxidoreductase activity genes under normal and drought conditions. Furthermore, analysis of transcription factor expression suggested that abs affected drought tolerance mainly through the regulation of WRKY, ERF, bHLH and MYB transcription factors. However, the expression of most of these genes was the same or opposite in SlBRI1OE plants compared to the MM group. Conclusion: Our results establish that SlBRI1 expression level was negatively involved in drought responses of tomato. Furthermore, our study provides valuable information for future breeding to appropriately reduce the expression of SlBRI1 and improve drought resistance without affecting plant growth.
Development of the Exercise in Cancer Evaluation and Decision Support (EXCEEDS) Algorithm
Authors: Covington Kelley R , Marshall Timothy , Campbell Grace , Williams Grant R , Fu Jack B , Kendig Tiffany D , Howe Nancy , Alfano Catherine M , Pergolotti Mackenzi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
PurposeIndividualized triage to exercise and rehabilitation is recommended to optimize health, functioning and well-being across the cancer continuum. However, ability to identify and triage the right survivor to the right exercise or rehabilitation service at the right time is a barrier. We developed an evidence-based algorithm to identify survivors’ need for pre-exercise medical clearance and support individualized triage to appropriate exercise/rehabilitation care.MethodsFrom literature review, we synthesized defining characteristics of exercise/rehabilitation services and patient characteristics associated with safety and efficacy of each service. We developed a visual model to conceptualize need for high/low specialized care, then organized patient characteristics into a risk-stratified framework. We conducted an iterative review process with a multidisciplinary expert panel until consensus was reached for the preliminary algorithm. ResultsWe describe eight defining features of the four levels of exercise/rehabilitation and provide a conceptual model of need for high/low specialized care across the cancer continuum. The preliminary Exercise in Cancer Evaluation and Decision Support (EXCEEDS) Algorithm includes a risk-stratified series of eleven dichotomous questions, organized in two sections and ten domains. Conclusions﻿The EXCEEDS algorithm provides an evidence-based solution to facilitate integration of exercise into routine oncology care via a common language to describe exercise/rehabilitation services, a practical model to conceptualize an individual’s need for specialized care, and step-by-step decision support guidance.
The Chinese version of Post-traumatic Growth and Depreciation Inventory – Expanded version (PTGDI-X) for cancer survivors
Authors: Ho Samuel M.Y. , Cheng Chih-Tao , Shih Shih-Ming , Taku Kanako , Tedeschi Richard G. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Many patients with cancer report positive changes often refer to as posttraumatic growth (PTG). Some of these self-reported PTG may represent maladaptive illusions created by individuals to cope with the illness. A recently established Post-traumatic Growth and Depreciation Inventory – Expanded version (PTGDI-X) includes both PTG and post-traumatic depreciation (PTD) items. This inventory may provide a more balanced picture on the phenomenological world of cancer survivors. We examined the Chinese version of the PTGDI-X’s applicability to cancer patients, and examine how PTG and PTD were related to posttraumatic stress symptoms. Two hundred sixty-five cancer survivors in Taiwan completed the Chinese version of the PTGDI-X, along with the PTSD Checklist for the DSM-5 to measure post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the factor structure of the PTGDI-X established in a multi-national study fit our data from cancer patients modestly well. The PTD score had a significant and positive correlation with PTSD symptoms, whereas the PTG and PTSD showed a significant curvilinear relationship in the form of an inverted U-shape. This study’s results indicate that PTG and PTD are separated constructs with differential relationships with cancer outcomes. The Chinese version of the PTGDI-X is a viable instrument for psycho-oncological research. The PTD scores can provide useful information to guide cognitive interventions to reduce distorted cognitions. In contrast, the PTG scores can provide further information on the phenomenological world of cancer survivors. In this study, clinical implications and future studies were considered.
Impact of Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy on Quality of Life in Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer Receiving Platinum-based Chemotherapy
Authors: Hung Hsing-Wei , Liu Chien-Ying , Chen Hsiu-Fang , Chen Shu-Ching 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Purpose: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common adverse event of cancer treatment that may affect quality of life (QoL). The purposes of this study were to: assess the levels of CIPN, depression, general QoL, and CIPN–related QoL; and identify the factors related to CIPN–related QoL and general QoL in patients with advanced lung cancer (LC) receiving platinum-based chemotherapy.Methods: This cross-sectional study examined patients with advanced LC who received platinum-based chemotherapy from the thoracic oncology inpatient wards of a medical center in northern Taiwan. Structured questionnaires were used to measure patients’ CIPN, depression, general QoL, and CIPN-related QoL.Results: Of the 93 patients with advanced LC studied, 53.8% and 47.3% reported CIPN–sensory impairment and CIPN–motor impairment, respectively. The most common CIPN symptoms were difficulty getting or maintaining an erection and difficulty in climbing stairs or getting up out of a chair. Poor CIPN–related QoL was associated with more CIPN–sensory and more CIPN–motor impairment. Poor general QoL was associated with a higher level of depression, more CIPN-sensory impairment, and a higher cumulative dose of chemotherapy.Conclusion: More than half of LC patients report impairment related to CIPN. This finding highlights the importance of treating these symptoms which significantly impair QoL. A holistic approach — including patient health education, dietary adjustment, nutritional supplements, aerobic exercise, and balance training — is needed to relieve the distressful peripheral neurological symptoms and emotional distress of CIPN during and after treatment for advanced LC.