bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
RITS: A Toolbox for Assessing Complex Interventions via Interrupted Time Series Models
Authors: Cruz Maricela Francis , Pinto-Orellana Marco A. , Gillen Daniel L. , Ombao Hernando 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Various interacting and interdependent components comprise complex interventions. These components create difficulty in assessing the true impact of interventions designed to improve patient-centered outcomes. Interrupted time series (ITS) designs borrow from case-crossover designs and serve as quasi-experimental methodology able to retrospectively assess the impact of an intervention while accounting for temporal correlation. While ITS designs are aptly situated for studying the impacts of large-scale public health policies, existing ITS software implement rigid ITS methodology that often assume the pre- and post-intervention phases are fully differentiated (by a known change-point or set of time points) and do not allow for changes in both the mean functions and correlation structure. Results: This article describes the Robust Interrupted Time Series (RITS) toolbox, a stand-alone user-friendly application researchers can use to implement flexible ITS models that estimate the lagged effect of an intervention on an outcome, level and trend changes, and post-intervention changes in the correlation structure, for single and multiple ITS. The RITS toolbox incorporates a formal test for the existence of a change in the outcome and estimates a change-point over a set of possible change-points defined by the researcher. In settings with multiple ITS, RITS provides a global over-all units change-point and allows for unit-specific changes in the mean functions and correlation structures. Conclusions: The RITS toolbox is the first piece of software that allows researchers to use flexible ITS models that test for the existence of a change-point, estimate the change-point (if estimation is desired), and allow for changes in both the mean functions and correlation structures at the change point. RITS does not require any knowledge of a statistical (or otherwise) programming language, is freely available to the community, and may be downloaded and used on a local machine to ensure data protection.
Analysis of the Thermal-force Roll Profile Control Ability Under Different Hole Structures and Slot Structures in the RPECT
Authors: Yang Tingsong , Liu Jiayang , Zhou Haonan , Xu Zhiqiang , Du Fengshan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Roll profile electromagnetic control technology (RPECT) is a strip flatness control technology based on the flexible control of roll profiles. As the core component, electromagnetic sticks can bulge with the induction heating of induction coils. To ensure the integrity of the coil circuit, the surfaces of the electromagnetic sticks need to be provided with slots. Moreover, the inner hole of the electromagnetic control roll is also needed to install the electromagnetic stick in the roll. The structures of the inner hole and slots affect the local structure of the electromagnetic stick and the electromagnetic control roll and then change the roll profile control ability. To research the radial bulging ability, the roundness of bulging, and the composition between the thermal crown and force crown under different holes or slots, a finite element model of circumferential RPECT is established by using the finite element software MARC. After analysis, the results showed that the radial bulging ability and the roundness under the influence of the roll radius were larger than those under the influences of the slot radius and slot amount, and the composition characteristics of the comprehensive roll profile were different under different conditions. Therefore, to achieve accurate roll profile control, the influences of the structures of holes and slots need to be included in the RPECT index.
The Adsorption Properties of Microporous Activated Carbon Prepared from Pistachio Nut Shell for Low Concentration VOCs Under Low-medium Temperatures
Authors: Cheng Tangying , Li Jinjin , Ma Xiuwei , Zhou Lei , Wu Hao , Yang Linjun 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The control of low concentration VOCs in coal flue gas is one of the research hotspots at present. Activated carbon (AC) is often used as adsorbent for the control of VOCs due to its rich pore structure and thermal stability. In this paper, agricultural wastes pistachio shell was used as biomass AC raw materials, K2CO3 and KCl was used as activators. High surface area and high porosity activated carbon can be produced by the two activators used together. By comparing the differences in pore size structure and functional groups between biomass AC and commercial AC, it was found that biomass AC had better properties. The adsorption performance of different ACs on low concentration VOCs was tested at low-medium temperatures. It is concluded that biomass AC has excellent adsorption performance, and its maximum adsorption capacity can reach 3.8 times that of commercial AC. All the three adsorption kinetic models had good fitting on the adsorption process of ACs, indicating that physical adsorption is dominant in the adsorption process, while chemical adsorption existed. Using the Weber-Morris kinetic model to fit the adsorption process, it was found that the stage of external membrane mass transfer is the control stage of adsorption rate.
A Comparative Study of Auto-contouring Softwares&nbsp;in Delineation of Organs at Risk in Lung Cancer and Rectal Cancer
Authors: chen weijun , Wang Cheng , Zhan Wenming , Jia Yongshi , Ruan Fangfang , Qiu Lingyun , Yang Shuangyan , Li Yucheng 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background:Radiotherapy requires the target area and the organs at risk to be contoured on the CT image of the patient. During the process of organs-at-Risk (OAR) of the chest and abdomen, the doctor needs to contour at each CT image. The delineations of large and varied shapes are time-consuming and laborious.This study aims to evaluate the results of two automatic contouring software on OAR definition of CT images of lung cancer and rectal cancer patients. Methods: The CT images of 15 patients with rectal cancer and 15 patients with lung cancer were selected separately, and the organs at risk were outlined by the same experienced doctor as references, and then the same datasets were automatically contoured based on AiContour®© (Manufactured by Linking MED, China) and Raystation®© (Manufactured by Raysearch, Sweden) respectively. Overlap index (OI), Dice similarity index (DSC) and Volume difference (DV) were evaluated based on the auto-contours, and independent-sample t-test analysis is applied to the results. Results: The results of AiContour®© on OI and DSC were better than that of Raystation®© with statistical difference. There was no significant difference in DV between the results of two software. Conclusions: With AiContour®©, auto-contouring results of most organs in the chest and abdomen are good, and with slight modification, it can meet the clinical requirements for planning. With Raystation®©, auto-contouring results in most OAR is not as good as AiContour®©, and only the auto-contouring results of some organs can be used clinically after modification.
Interventions to Improve Employment Outcomes for People With Spinal Cord Injuries: a Scoping Review Protocol Using the Donabedian Model
Authors: Pefile Ntsikelelo , Mothabeng Joyce Diphale , Naidoo Saloshni 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background Unemployment among persons with spinal cord injury (PWSCI) is high and often leads to poverty (including their families). Modifiable and unmodifiable factors that influence employment among PWSCI are known and are addressed throughout the rehabilitation process. The overall aim of rehabilitation of PWSCI is quality of life and community integration (including employment). Interventions that seek to improve employment outcomes among PWSCI are well documented. However, no integrated reviews clearly describe the resources utilised, interventions utilised, duration of interventions and the outcomes (and tools used) to improve employment outcomes among PWSCI. Policymakers and rehabilitation professionals require this information to develop models or strategies to improve employment outcomes for PWSCI. This review aims to map evidence on interventions and approaches that aim to enhance the employment of PWSCI. Methodology This review will map evidence on interventions that improve employment outcomes among PWSCI, using the Arksey and O'Malley framework and the Donabedian model as the guiding lens. The first stage includes the development of the research question and will be reviewed throughout the review process. The PCC framework will be utilised to determine the inclusion and exclusion criteria and develop the search terms. Peer-reviewed primary studies will be identified using the Boolean search terms on PubMed, MEDLINE, Ebscohost, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Cochrane databases. Two independent reviewers will identify primary studies and charting data, and one reviewer will act as a supervisor and arbitrator. Data charting tool will be utilised to gather the required information from the selected studies. Nvivo software version 25 will be used to develop themes for summarising and reporting the data. The quality of the courses selected will be evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). DiscussionData from the selected studies will be discussed in relation to the research questions and the Donabedian model. Information gathered from this scoping review will enable policymakers, rehabilitation professionals and other stakeholders to use this as a foundation in an attempt to develop strategies or models that seek to improve employment outcomes among PWSCI. Moreover, a gap in current practice will be identified, and further research needed in the field will be described.
Early prediction of cause-specific acute respiratory distress syndrome via interpretable machine-learning.
Authors: Wu Junwei , Liu Chao , Xie Lixin , Li Xiang , Xiao Kun , Xie Guotong , Xie Fei 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Several studies have investigated the correlation between physiological parameters and the risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); however, cause-specific ARDS and its early prediction have not been well-studied. We aimed to develop and validate a machine-learning model for the early prediction of inhalation-induced ARDS. Methods: Clinical expertise was applied with data-driven analysis. Using data from electronic intensive care units (retrospective derivation cohort) and the three most accessible vital signs (i.e. heart rate, temperature, and respiratory rate) together with feature engineering, we applied a random forest approach during the time window of 90 hours that ended 6 hours prior to the onset of moderate-to-severe respiratory failure (the ratio of partial pressure of arterial oxygen to fraction of inspired oxygen ≤200 mmHg). Results: The trained random forest classifier was validated using an independent validation cohort, with an area under the curve of 0.9026 (95% confidence interval 0.8075-1) and optimal threshold probability, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity values were 0.8947, 1, and 0.875, respectively. A Stable and Interpretable RUle Set (SIRUS) was used to extract rules from the RF to provide guidelines for clinicians. We identified several predictive factors, including resp_96h_6h_min < 9, resp_96h_6h_mean ≥ 16.1, HR_96h_6h_mean ≥ 102, and temp_96h_6h_max > 100, that could be used for predicting inhalation-induced ARDS (moderate-to-severe condition) 6 hours prior to onset in critical care units. (‘xxx_96h_6h_min/mean/max’: the minimum/mean/maximum values of the xxx vital sign collected during a 90 h time window beginning 96 h prior to the onset of ARDS and ending 6 h prior to the onset from every recorded blood gas test) Conclusions: This newly established random forest‑based interpretable model shows good predictive ability for inhalation-induced ARDS and may assist clinicians in decision-making, as well as facilitate the enrolment of patients in prevention programmes to improve their outcomes.
Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Young Africans With First Ever Stroke in Tanzania: A Prospective Cohort Study&nbsp;
Authors: Matuja Sarah Shali , Munseri Patricia , Moshiro Candida , Khanbhai Khuzeima , Mahawish Karim 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy is a pathophysiological response to chronic hypertension and is an independent risk factor for vascular events. We sought to determine the magnitude, correlates and prognosis of left ventricular hypertrophy in young patients presenting with their first stroke at a tertiary hospital. We also sought to determine the accuracy of electrocardiography using Sokolow-Lyon and Cornell criteria in detecting left ventricular hypertrophy compared to echocardiography.Methods: This cohort study prospectively recruited consecutive stroke patients aged 18-45 years who had undergone brain imaging, electrocardiogram and transthoracic echocardiography. Baseline data were recorded and correlates of left ventricular hypertrophy were identified using the modified Poisson regression. Follow-up for functional outcomes was performed to 30-days using the modified Rankin Scale.Results: We enrolled 101 participants with first ever stroke. The mean age of patients was 39.7years and the mean National Institutes of Health Stroke Score was 18, reflecting severe disability. Brain imaging revealed ischemic strokes in 60 (59.4%) of patients and of those with intracerebral hemorrhage, 33 (86.8%) were localized to the basal ganglia, in keeping with a hypertensive etiology. Left ventricular hypertrophy was present in 76 (75.3%; 95% CI 65.7% – 83.3%), and 30 (39.5%) and 28 (36.8%) had moderate to severe degree respectively. Young adults with left ventricular hypertrophy were more likely to have a higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure on arrival 156.3±19 and 96.4±10.6 respectively. On multivariable analysis, lack of antihypertensive medication was associated with left ventricular hypertrophy {adjusted risk ratio 1.42 (95% CI: 1.04–1.94). The sensitivity and specificity for Sokolow-Lyon in detecting left ventricular hypertrophy was 27% and 78%, and for Cornell was 32% and 52% respectively. At 30-days, functional independence was achieved in 12 (12.4%) and almost half had died.Conclusions: There is a high burden of left ventricular hypertrophy in young patients with first stroke. Untreated hypertension is the likely etiology associated with a high 30-day mortality. Our findings did not support the use of the electrical voltage criteria for detecting left ventricular hypertrophy. We recommend low cost interventions such as blood pressure screening and control to reduce this burden in the young.
The Effects of Branched Chain Amino Acid Supplement on Kidney Tissue of Exercising Rats
Authors: AYDEĞER Cemre , EROĞLU Hüseyin Avni 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
One of the supplements used in with exercise programs is branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) which preferred because of their effect on novation of muscle protein synthesis. However, BCAAs increase their amount in the blood in a short time due to their properties. In this case, the result can increase the workload of the kidneys. Based on the information, this study investigated the effects of resistance exercise and BCAA supplements on kidney tissue. A total of 24 Wistar Albino male rats were divided equally into 4 groups: Control, BCAA, Exercise and Exercise+BCAA. In six-week study, resistance swimming exercise was applied to exercise groups. BCAA groups were given BCAA supplements at doses of 2.5 mg/kg before exercise. End of the study, histological, immunochemical, and RT-PCR analyses were performed. As a result of the findings obtained, it was found that use of BCAA supplements together with exercise caused tubular necrosis (p=0.002). A significant increase was found in caspase 3 IHC staining findings in BCAA and Exercise+BCAA groups compared to Control group (p=0.011; p=0.02). Also, KIM-1 expression levels were higher in Exercise group compared to all other groups (p=0.004; p=0.003; p=0.008). As a result, BCAA consumption in combination with resistant exercise caused damage to kidney tissue.
Coordination of m6A mRNA methylation and gene transcriptome in rice response to cadmium stress
Authors: Cheng Qin , Wang Peng , Wu Guangliang , Wang Yanning , Tan Jingai , Li Caijing , Zhang Xiangyu , Liu Shilei , Huang Shiying , Huang Tao , Yang Mengmeng , He Haohua , Bian Jianmin 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent internal modification present in mRNAs of all higher eukaryotes. However, the role of the m6A methylomes in rice is still poorly understood. With the development of MeRIP-seq technique, in-depth identification of mRNAs with m6A modification becomes feasible. We investigated the m6A methylomes in roots of cadmium (Cd) group and compared that with the roots in the control (CK) group by m6A sequencing, in 9311 and Nipponbare (NIP), respectively. The results indicated that Cd leads to altered modification profile in 3,406 differential m6A peaks in 9311, and 2,065 differential m6A peaks in NIP. KEGG pathway analysis of genes with differentially modified m6A peaks indicates that the “phenylalanine”, “tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis”, “glycine”, “adherens junctions”, “glycerophospholipid metabolism” and “threonine metabolism” signaling pathways may be associated with abnormal roots development of rice due to exposure to cadmium in 9311. “Arginine”, “proline metabolism”, “glycerolipid”, “protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum”, metabolism pathways were significantly enriched in genes with differentially modified m6A peaks in NIP. Different from that in Arabidopsis, the m6A peak (m6A-modified nucleotide position on mRNAs) distribution exhibits preference toward both the stop codon and 3′UTRs region. These findings provide a resource for plant RNA epi-transcriptomics studies and further enlarge our knowledge on the function of RNA m6A modification in plants.
Giant Occipital Encephalocele: A Case Report, Surgical &amp; Anesthetic Challenge
Authors: Zahid Soha , Khizar Ahtesham 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: An encephalocele is a congenital neural tube defect characterized by herniation of cranial contents through a defect in the cranium and is caused by failure of the closure of the cranial part of the developing neural tube. An encephalocele is termed as “giant encephalocele” when the size of encephalocele is larger than the size of the head. They depend on size of the sac, percentage of neural tissue content, hydrocephalus, infection, and other associated pathologies for a favorable neurological outcome.Case Presentation: We report a case of a four month old boy with a Giant Occipital Encephalocele about 21 x 15 x 19 cm in size, who was a surgical and anesthetic challenge for us. Intubation was achieved in lateral position. Part of occipital and cerebellar parenchyma was present in the sac and bony defect was approximately 2.5 cm in occipital bone in midline. We did Surgical Excision and Repair with a good overall outcome.Conclusion: Perioperative management of a Giant Occipital Encephalocele is a challenge for both anesthesiologist and neurosurgeon. Managing such a case demands search for other congenital abnormalities, expertise in handling airway and proper intraoperative care. Careful planning and perioperative management are essential for a successful outcome.
Treatment of Facial Nevi with Ideal Design and Splitting Technique
Authors: Sun Qiang , Guo Jiayan , Liu Siyu , Zhu Mengru , Feng Jingyi , Zhou You , Wang Yuxin , Guo Shu 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: The treatment of nevi includes surgical treatment and non-surgical treatment. Non-surgical treatment has many defects in the clinic, whereas surgical treatment is applicable to any type of nevi. However, there is no unified standard for surgical methods. Methods: Patients with facial nevi ( width ≤4 cm) and high requirements for beauty were included. Preoperatively, incision design and resection range based on the recommended wrinkles or folds of each region and principle of plastic surgery. Intraoperatively, a nevus flap was formed, and then equally divided by splitting technique. After the splitting nevus flap was resected, suture without tension was performed. Results: 21 patients underwent surgical excision. 14 patients underwent complete excision, while 7 patients underwent serial excision. The patients were satisfied with the appearance, local sensations were normal, and there were no secondary deformities of the surrounding facial organs without recurrence.Conclusion: This method is of added value, which achieved by the correct assessment of the size and location of facial nevi and designed according to the reference marks in each region and complete or serial excision.
Effects of Acuc on the Growth Development and Spinosad Biosynthesis of Saccharopolyspora Spinosa
Authors: Liu Zhudong , Xiao Jie , Tang Jianli , Liu Yang , Shuai Ling , Cao Li , Xia Ziyuan , Ding Xuezhi , Rang Jie , Xia Liqiu 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: The interaction between acuC and spinosad biosynthesis is complex. In this study, acetoin utilization protein (acuC) was characterized. It is a type I histone deacetylase that is highly conserved in bacteria. This study first explored the effect of acuC on the growth and development of secondary metabolites of S. spinosa. Results: The knockout strain and overexpression strain were constructed separately with the shuttle vector pOJ260. The overexpression of the acuC gene affects the growth and phenotype of S. spinosa. Moreover, the spore production ability of the S. spinosa-acuC strain on solid medium was weaker than that of the wild-type strain. HPLC analysis of the fermentation products for the wild-type and mutant strains demonstrated that the yield of the overexpression strain was 87% higher than that of the wild-type strain. Conclusions: We concluded that the overexpression of acuC positively regulated the biosynthesis of spinosad and affected the acetylation pathway and the growth of S. spinosa. A comparative proteomic analysis between the wild-type and overexpression strains revealed related genes in different metabolic pathways that were affected. We envision that these results can be extended to other actinomycetes for secondary metabolite improvement.