bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of an Electric Submerged Arc Furnace
Authors: Karalis Konstantinos , Karalis Nikolaos , Karkalos Nikolaos , Antipas Georgios S.E. , Xenidis Anthimos 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method is proposed for the analysis of the operation of a submerged electric arc furnace (EAF) used in the ferronickel production. The three-dimensional mathematical model was initiated for the time dependent solution of the fluid flow, heat transfer and electromagnetic phenomena. The physical properties of the slag, which has crucial role in the EAF operation were previously determined using classical molecular dynamics simulations and empirical relationships. The analysis revealed that the main slag properties affecting the EAF operation are the density, viscosity and electrical conductivity – the latter two being mutually dependent. The high electrical conductivity values of the slag favors melting via the high Joule heat produced within the slag region. Calculation of the dimensionless Péclet and Reynolds numbers revealed that the slag velocities play a decisive role in heat transfer and further indicate that the slag flow is laminar. The average slag velocity calculated 0.0001 m/s with maxima in the vicinity of the electrodes.
Quantification of Gadolinium Deposition in the Brain Using Quantitative MRI
Authors: Liu Angie Landgren , Blystad Ida , Tisell Anders 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Gadolinium depositions in the brain caused by Gadolinium Based Contrast Agents (GBCAs) represent a topical issue since depositions have been confirmed, but their potential effects remain unknown. The purpose of this study is to show that quantitative MRI provides an alternative to conventional MRI for detection of gadolinium depositions without the need for reference areas, while also avoiding methodological limitations associated with conventional MRI, facilitating future studies on the subject. This retrospective observational cohort study of longitudinally acquired data uses quantitative MRI to quantify gadolinium depositions in six areas of the brain; the dentate nuclei, globus pallidi, thalami, pons, white matter and frontal cortex grey matter of 43 patients who received two to five doses of Magnevist (a linear GBCA) from 2009 to 2015. R1 was measured at baseline and after four years in the six areas of the brain of each patient. The changes in R1 were examined using a Paired-Samples T test. The correlation between doses of Magnevist and R1 was analysed using an Independent-Samples T test. There was a significant increase in R1 (p<0.05), consistent with gadolinium depositions in the dentate nuclei, globus pallidi and grey matter. No significant increase of R1 was found in the thalami, white matter or pons. A correlation between doses of Magnevist and R1 was found in the dentate nuclei and grey matter, but not in the globus pallidus. The results suggest that quantitative MRI is an alternative to conventional MRI for early detection of gadolinium depositions, while additionally providing quantitative measurements for comparison and follow-up.
Numerical Characterization of the Load Distribution in Ball Screws
Authors: Sangalli Luca , Oyanguren Aitor , Larrañaga Jon , Arana Aitor , Izquierdo Mikel , Ulacia Ibai 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Load distribution in ball screws is a representation of the ball contact stress, and it is fundamental to understanding the behavior of these machine elements. This work aims to conduct a multi-variable analysis of the load distribution in ball screws. For this purpose, a numerical tool is developed for the generation and calculation of ball screw FEM models, which has been validated against the state of the art. Many different design variables are studied in order to obtain a general characterization of the morphology of the load distribution in ball screws. The two most characteristic features, the non-uniformity at a local and global level are identified, along with as the possible causes of their appearance and the consequences that they may cause.
Predicting the loss to follow-up of HIV-infected patients on ART in a rural area in South Africa using generalized gamma distributions
Authors: Bengura Pepukai 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background - Long-term regular follow-up and high retention are the anticipated outcomes for the wellness and longevity of HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral treatment. However, these anticipated outcomes are marred by patient loss to follow-up (LTFU) which is currently exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. This study aims to determine the prevalence and potential risk factors to LTFU among HIV/AIDS patients on ART at two rural district hospitals in South Africa.Methods— This is a retrogressive observational study whereby a cohort of HIV/AIDS patients was retrospectively followed from 2010 to 2017 until loss to follow-up occurred or until the end of the observation period at Carolina and Embhuleni hospitals. An institutional based retrospective cohort study was undertaken among children, adolescents and adults living with HIV/AIDS and attending ART clinic between January 1, 2010 and June 30, 2017. Loss to follow up was defined as not taking an ART refill for a period of 90 days or longer from the last attendance for refill and not yet classified as ‘dead’ or ‘transferred-out’ patient. Patient information was obtained from the routine hospitals’ records, and the data were analysed using Generalized gamma distribution to identify the predictors of loss to follow up among HIV/AIDS patients while Kaplan-Meier model was used to estimate and compare the LTFU survival probabilities of heterogenous groups among the patients.Results— Of the 357 patients, 60.5% were female. The mean (SD) age of the cohort was 36.2 (14.1), 15.4 (3.5), and 5.1 (3.5) years for adults, adolescents, and children, respectively. From 357 HIV/AIDS patients, 93 (26.05%) were lost to follow-up. Empirical results show that the Weibull distribution gives the best fit to the data. The Weibull model determined the Factors associated with significant risk factors to patient loss to follow up as: regimen EFV+D4T+3TC [HR: 2.0 CI;(1.3–3.1)], regimen EFV+AZT+3TC [HR: 2.9 CI;(1.3–6.4)], regimen EFV+3TC+TDF [HR: 10.0 CI;(3.9–25.9)], regimen NVP+3TC+TDF [HR: 10.6 CI;(1.8–62.4)], follow up CD4 [HR: 1.0 CI;(1.0–1.0)], log(follow up viral load) [HR: 0.8 CI;(0.7–0.9)], marital status (married) [HR: 0.4 CI;(0.3–0.8)], marital status (cohabitation) [HR: 0.6 CI;(0.3–0.9)], ART adherence (fair) [HR: 2.4 CI;(1.3–3.4)], ART adherence (good) [HR: 4.6 CI;(2.2–9.5)] and age [HR: 1.02 CI;(1.0–1.04)]. Discussion— Effective control and tracing measures in the at-risk population and in defaulters need to be stepped up especially during this COVID-19 period, to improve retention in hospitals. There is also need for careful adherence counseling and assessment of medication supplies.Conclusion— LTFU is more pronounced among females and is highest among adolescents. Patients with increased risk for LTFU were consistent with ART regimens, viral load, age, CD4 count, adherence and marital status.
Excess mortality by patient’s multimorbidity, socioeconomic, and healthcare factors, among Diffuse Large B–cell and Follicular lymphomas patients in England: A population-based multilevel study
Authors: Smith Matthew J. , Belot Aurélien , Quartagno Matteo , Luque-Fernandez Miguel Angel , Bonaventure Audrey , Gachau Susan , Majano Sara Benitez , Rachet Bernard , Njagi Edmund Njeru 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background

Socioeconomic inequalities of survival in patients with non–Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) persists, which may be explained by patients’ comorbidities. We aimed to assess the association between co/multimorbidity and survival in patients diagnosed with Diffuse Large B-cell (DLBCL) or Follicular lymphoma (FL) in England accounting for other socio-demographic characteristics.
Methods

Population-based cancer registry data was linked to Hospital Episode Statistics. We used a flexible multilevel excess hazard model to estimate 5–year net survival and excess mortality by patient’s multimorbidity and comorbidity status adjusted for sociodemographic, economic, healthcare factors, and accounting for the patient’s area of residence.
Results

Overall, 15,516 and 29,898 patients were diagnosed with FL and DLBCL in England between 2005–2013, respectively. Respectively, those with comorbidities and multimorbidities had 1.3 (95% Confidence Interval -CI-: 1.20–1.40) and 1.5 (95% CI 1.27–1.87) times higher excess mortality compared to those without comorbidities. Patients in most deprived areas showed 26% (95% CI 1.20–1.32) excess mortality risk compared to those in least deprived areas.
Conclusion

Co/multimorbidities are consistently associated with poorer survival among patients diagnosed with DLBCL or FL. Comorbidities and multimorbidity need to be considered when planning public health interventions targeting haematological malignancies in England.
MG53 inhibits angiogenesis through regulating focal adhesion kinase signaling
Authors: Dong Jinling , Zhou Haiyan , Li Yongjie , Li Rong , Chen Ni , Zheng Youkun , Deng Xin , Luo Mao , Wang Liqun 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Mitsugumin 53 (MG53), which is expressed predominantly in striated muscle, has been demonstrated to be a myokine/cardiokine secreted from striated muscle under specific conditions. The important roles of MG53 in non-striated muscle tissues have also been examined in multiple disease models. However, no previous study has implicated MG53 in the control of endothelial cell function. In order to explore the effects of MG53 on endothelial cells, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were stimulated with recombinant human MG53 (rhMG53). Then rhMG53 uptake, focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/Src/Akt/ERK1/2 signaling pathway activation, cell migration and tube formation were determined in vitro. The efficacy of rhMG53 in regulating angiogenesis was also detected in postnatal mouse retinas. The results demonstrated that rhMG53 directly entered into endothelial cells in a cholesterol-dependent manner. The uptake rhMG53 directly bound to FAK in endothelial cells, which resulted in significant decrease of FAK phosphorylation at Y397. Accompanied by the dephosphorylation of FAK, rhMG53 uncoupled FAK-Src interaction and reduced the phosphorylation of Src at Y416. Consequently, the activation of FAK/Src downstream signaling pathways, such as Akt and ERK1/2, was also significantly inhibited by rhMG53. Furthermore, rhMG53 remarkably decreased HUVEC migration and tube formation in vitro and postnatal mouse retinal angiogenesis in vivo. Taken together, these data indicate that rhMG53 inhibits angiogenesis through regulating FAK/Src/Akt/ERK1/2 signaling pathways. This may provide a novel molecular mechanism for the impaired angiogenesis in ischemic diseases.
LRP3, an apolipoprotein receptor that links reelin signalling and APP expression, is affected in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Cuchillo-Ibañez Inmaculada , Lennol Matthew P , Escamilla Sergio , Mata-Balaguer Trinidad , López-Font Inmaculada , Ferrer Isidro , Saez-Valero Javier 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background. Members of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family are involved in endocytosis and in transducing signals, but also in APP (amyloid precursor protein) processing and β-amyloid secretion. ApoER2/LRP8 is a member of this family with key roles in synaptic plasticity in the adult brain. ApoER2 is cleaved after the binding of its ligand, the reelin protein, generating an intracellular domain (ApoER2-ICD) that modulates reelin gene transcription itself. In this work, we have analysed whether ApoER2-ICD is able to regulate the expression of other members of the LDL receptor family. We focused on LRP3, the most unknown member of the LDL receptor family, whose precise physiological role and potential participation in pathological processes such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are still unknown.Methods. The effects of full-length ApoER2 and ApoER2-ICD overexpression on protein levels, in presence of recombinant reelin or Ab42 peptide, were evaluated by a microarray, qRT-PCRs and western blots. The expression of LRP3 was analysed in human frontal cortex extracts from AD and non-demented subjects by qRT-PCRs and western blot; and LRP3 interaction with other proteins was assessed by immunoprecipitation. In CHO cells overexpressing LRP3, protein levels of full-length APP and fragments were evaluated by western blots. Results. We have identified that ApoER2 overexpression increases LRP3 expression. Stimulation of ApoER2 signaling by reelin increased LRP3 levels, and the same occurred following ApoER2-ICD overexpression. In human frontal cortex extracts we demonstrate that LRP3 interacts with apolipoprotein E and APP. In extracts from AD subjects, the levels of LRP3 mRNA and protein were lower than those in control subjects. Interestingly, LRP3 transfection in CHO-PS70 cells induced a decrease of full-length APP levels and APP-CTF, and in the supernatant, levels of soluble APP fragments from the amyloidogenic (sAPPa) or non-amyloidogenic (sAPPβ) pathway, as well as Aβ peptides, were drastically reduced respect to mock-transfected cells.Limitations. There is a scarce knowledge of LRP3 physiological function as a neuronal receptor.Conclusion. We describe that LRP3 expression is regulated via ApoER2/reelin signaling, and its levels are affected in AD; similarly to other LDL receptors, LRP3 is involved in APP expression.
A Single-Phase Modelling for the Oxygen Uptake Rate in Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption
Authors: Gama Maria Carolina Traina , Gobatto Claudio Alexandre , Vollet Dimas Roberto 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
A two-parameters [a rate constant k and a factor f (0≤f < 1)] modelling, describing satisfactorily the post-exercise oxygen uptake rate (VO2) as a function of the recovery time (t), is presented. f controls the rate equation dVO2/dt, particularly at t = 0 where (dVO2/dt)t=0 ∝ −k(1−f), a less abrupt decay than (dVO2/dt)t=0 ∝ −k expected from an exponential. Fitting the model to a set of experimental VO2 vs t data after a 3MT it was found a set of values with f close to 0 and another with f > 1/2, with a narrow distribution of values for the half-recovery time τ1/2=(1/k)ln[(2−f)/(1−f)] (〈τ1/2〉=0.641 min, σ = 0.062 min), very similar to that (T) found by fitting a model based on a logit transform (〈T〉 = 0.672 min, σ = 0.081 min). The parameter f is a reliable index of the initial acceleration of the oxygen uptake rate recovery (and likely of the heart rate recovery) and, together with the half-recovery time τ1/2, may be a useful method in characterizing and monitoring performs and exercise forms, very important in the physiology area.
Forecasting COVID-19 cases in Algeria using logistic growth and polynomial regression models
Authors: LOUNIS Mohamed , Malavika Babu 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The novel Coronavirus respiratory disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still expanding through the world since it started in Wuhan (China) on December 2019 reporting a number of more than 84.4 millions cases and 1.8 millions deaths on January 3rd 2021.In this work and to forecast the COVID-19 cases in Algeria, we used two models: the logistic growth model and the polynomial regression model using data of COVID-19 cases reported by the Algerian ministry of health from February 25th to December 2nd, 2020. Results showed that the polynomial regression model fitted better the data of COVID-19 in Algeria the Logistic model. The first model estimated the number of cases on January, 19th 2021 at 387673 cases. This model could help the Algerian authorities in the fighting against this disease.
First Description of Migratory Behavior of Humpback Whales From an Antarctic Feeding Ground to a Tropical Breeding Ground
Authors: Modest Michelle , Irvine Ladd , Andrews-Goff Virginia , Gough William , Johnston David , Nowacek Douglas , Pallin Logan , Read Andrew , Moore Reny Tyson , Friedlaender Ari 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Despite exhibiting one of the longest migrations in the world, half of the humpback whale migratory cycle has remained unexamined; until this point, no study has provided a continuous description of humpback whale migratory behavior from a feeding ground to a breeding ground. We present new information on the satellite derived offshore migratory movements of 16 humpback whales from Antarctic feeding grounds to South American breeding grounds. Satellite locations were used to demonstrate migratory corridors, while the impact of departure date on migration speed was assessed using a linear regression, and a Bayesian hierarchical state-space animal movement model was utilized to investigate the presence of feeding behavior en route. Results: 35,642 Argos locations from 16 tagged whales from 2012-2017 were collected. The 16 whales were tracked for an average of 38.5 days of migration (range 10-151 days). The length of individually derived tracks ranged from 645–6,381 km. Humpbacks were widely dispersed geographically during the initial and middle stages of their migration but convened in two bottleneck regions near the southernmost point of Chile as well as Peru’s Illescas Peninsula. The state space model found almost no instances of ARS, a proxy for feeding behavior, along the migratory route. The linear regression assessing whether departure date affected migration speed found suggestive but inconclusive support for a positive trend between the two variables. No clear stratification by sex or reproductive status, either in migration speed, departure date, or route choice, was found.Conclusions: Southern hemisphere humpback whale populations are recovering quickly from intense commercial whaling and, around the Antarctic Peninsula, are doing so in the face of a rapidly changing environment. The current lack of scientific knowledge on marine mammal migration is a major barrier to cetacean conservation. This multi-year study sets a baseline against which the effects of climate change on humpback whales can be studied across years and conditions and provides an excellent starting point for the investigation into humpback whale migration.
Nlr &amp; Brca Mutational Status In Patients With High Grade Serous Advanced Ovarian Cancer: A Large Population Study
Authors: Marchetti Claudia , D'Indinosante Marco , Bottoni Carolina , Ilio Chiara Di , Berardino Stefano Di , Costantini Barbara , Minucci Angelo , Vertechy Laura , Scambia Giovanni , Fagotti Anna 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Laboratory-markers of the systemic inflammatory-response, such as neutrophil/lymphocyte-ratio (NLR) have been studied as prognostic factors in several tumors but in OC-patients their role is still controversial and no data about the possible correlation with the BRCA-status has been ever reported.We consecutively enrolled a series of 397 newly diagnosed high-grade serous-advanced OC-patients. All patients were tested for BRCA-mutational-status and blood-parameters have been collected 48 hours before staging-surgery. A significant correlation of NLR with disease distribution (p<0.005) was found and patients with NLR<4 underwent primary-debulking-surgery more frequently (p-value 0.001), with a lower surgical-complexity-score (p-value 0.002). Regarding survival-data, patients with NLR< 4 had a significant 7-month increase in mPFS (26 vs 19 months, p=0.009); focusing on the BRCA-status, among both BRCA-mutated and BRCA-wild type patients, those with lower NLR had a significantly prolonged mPFS compared to patients with NLR> 4 (BRCA-mutated: 35 vs 23 months, p= 0.03; BRCA-wt: 19 vs 16 months, p=0.05). At multivariate-analysis, independent factors of prolonged PFS were BRCA mutational status, having received complete cytoreduction and NLR< 4. Also, the strongest predictors of longer OS were BRCA-mutational status, having received complete, NLR< 4 and age.NLR is confirmed to be a prognostic marker in OC-patients and it seems unrelated with BRCA-mutational status.
Conformational Variability Assessment of the Mutation Sites for D614G, B.1.1.7, and B.1.351 using SSSCPreds
Authors: Izumi Hiroshi , Nafie Laurence , Dukor Rina 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Complementary techniques for the analysis of mutation sites at flexible regions, in which the position of atoms could not be determined by cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) such as the furin cleavage site of SARS-CoV-2, are necessary. The prediction data from SSSCPreds, a deep neural network-based prediction software of conformational flexibility or rigidity in proteins, can give insight into the conformational variability of mutation sites. We find that although the conformation of G614 is rigid, which is assigned as a left-handed (LH) α-helix-type one, that of D614 is flexible without the hydrogen bonding latch to T859. The rigidity of glycine which stabilizes the local conformation more effectively than that of aspartic acid with the latch, thereby contributes to the reduction of S1 shedding and increase in infectivity. Further it is predicted that no other amino acid allows the same conformation and stability as the glycine mutation in D614. The individual mutations in B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 have a lower effect and are not comparable to the overwhelming effectiveness of the D614G mutation. SSSCPreds provides important conformational flexibility insights into the deep neural network-based understanding of the current mutation sites and the potential for new ones in future.
Exploring Early Combination Strategy in Latin American Patients With Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes:&nbsp;A Sub-analysis of the VERIFY&nbsp;Study&nbsp;
Authors: Vencio Sergio , Manosalva Juan P , Mathieu Chantal , Proot Pieter , Lozno Hernan Yupanqui , Paldánius Päivi M 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from Latin American countries face challenges in access to healthcare, leading to under-diagnosis, under-achievement of glycemic target, and long-term complications. Early diagnosis and treatment initiation are of paramount importance in this population due to the high prevalence of risk factors such as obesity and metabolic syndrome. The VERIFY study in patients with newly diagnosed T2DM (across 34 countries), assessed the normoglycemic durability (5 years), with early combination (EC) therapy approach versus the traditional stepwise approach of initiating treatment with metformin monotherapy (MET). Here we present the results from the VERIFY study for participants from eight countries in Latin America. Methods: Newly diagnosed adult patients with T2DM, HbA1c 6.5%–7.5% and body-mass index (BMI) of 22–40 kg/m² were enrolled. The primary endpoint was time to initial treatment failure (TF; HbA1c ≥7.0% at two consecutive scheduled visits 13 weeks apart). Time to second TF was evaluated when patients in both groups were receiving and failing on the vildagliptin combination. Safety and tolerability were also assessed for both treatment approaches during the study.Results: A total of 537 eligible patients (female, 58.8%) were randomly assigned to receive either EC (n=266) or MET (n=271). EC significantly reduced the relative risk of time to initial TF by 47% versus MET (HR [95% CI] 0.53 [0.4, 0.7]; p<0.0001). Overall, 46.4% versus 66.3% of patients achieved the primary endpoint in the EC and MET groups, with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) time to TF of 59.8 (27.5, not evaluable) and 33.4 (12.2, 60.1) months, respectively. The risk for time to second TF was 31% lower with EC (p<0.0092). A higher proportion of patients receiving EC maintained durable HbA1c <7.0%, <6.5%, and <6.0%. Both treatment approaches were well tolerated, and only 3.2% of participants discontinued the study due to adverse events. All hypoglycemic events (EC: n=7 and MET: n=3) were single, mild episodes and did not lead to study discontinuation. Conclusion: Similar to the global population, long-term clinical benefits were achieved more frequently and without tolerability issues with EC versus standard-of-care MET in this Latin American sub-population.This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01528254.