bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predicting mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients in a low-resources setting
Authors: Vélez-Paez Jorge Luis , Montalvo Mario Patricio , Jara Fernando Esteban , Aguayo-Moscoso Santiago , Tercero-Martínez Wendy , Saltos Lenin Stalin , Jiménez-Alulima Glenda , Irigoyen-Mogro Estefanía , Castro-Reyes Evelyn , Mora-Coello Christian , Vásconez-González Eduardo , Ortiz-Prado Esteban 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background

Since its molecular isolation on January 7, 2020, the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has spread rapidly, taking governments worldwide off-guard. The virus arrived in low and middle-income countries violently, especially in Latin America. Ecuador received the worst outbreak in the world if we count excess mortality per capita. Although one study has reported the epidemiological impact of COVID-19 in Ecuador, there is no clinical course or outcome data among intensive care patients with COVID-19 in Ecuador. This study describes the clinical, epidemiological, and therapeutical features of 89 patients hospitalized in a secondary-level hospital in Quito, Ecuador.
Methods
We did a retrospective cohort study.
We collected health records data from
adult patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care
unit (ICU) in Quito, Ecuador, during the first five months of the
SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in Ecuador.

All patients had a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 RNA infection diagnostic, a positive real-time RT-PCR, and pulmonary imaging suggesting COVID-19. We used the Chi-square test or a Fisher's exact statistic to analyze risk and associations between survivors and non-survivors due to COVID-19. We used the ROC curve analysis to predict mortality, determining cut-off points for the parameters related to mechanical, analytical, and cytometry ventilation. At the multivariate level, we used the Wald test to evaluate model categorical predictors during the regression analysis.
Results

89 patients with COVID-19 were recruited during the study. The average age of the patients was 54.72 years. Man represented 68.54% (n = 61) and women 31,46% (n = 28). Significant differences were observed in terms of mortality (men 40.98% vs. women 17.76%). Serological parameters demonstrated that LDH and IL-6 at 24 hours were higher among non-survivors when compared with survivors. Persistent hypercapnia ( > > 45 mmHg), a PaFiO2 ratio of less than 140 mmHg, and a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) titration greater than nine mmHg were also associated with higher mortality.
Conclusions

Increased levels of LDH at 24 hours, IL-6, the lymphocyte and platelet count at 48 hours, the neutrophil count at 48 hours, and the INL are factors associated with higher motility, increased risk of failed extubation and reintubation
A fractional-order multistable locally-active memristor and its chaotic system with transient transition, state jump
Authors: Wenli Xie , Wang Chunhua , Hairong Lin 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Fractional calculus is closer to reality and has the same memory characteristics as memristor. Therefore, a fractional-order multistable locally active memristor is proposed for the first time in this paper, which has infinitely many coexisting pinched hysteresis loops under different initial states and wide locally active regions. Through the theoretical and numerical analysis, it is found that the fractional-order memristor has stronger locally active and memory characteristics and wider nonvolatile ranges than the integer-order memristor. Furthermore, this fractional-order memristor is applied in a chaotic system. It is found that oscillations occur only within the locally active regions. This chaotic system not only has complex and rich nonlinear dynamics such as infinitely many discrete equilibrium points, multistability, anti-monotonicity but also produces two new phenomena that have not been found in other chaotic systems after neglecting some initial transients. The first one is transient transition: the behavior of transient chaotic and transient period transition alternately occurring. The second is state jump: the behavior of period-4 oscillation or chaotic oscillation jumping to period-2 oscillation.Finally, the circuit simulation of fractional-order multistable locally active memristive chaotic system using PSIM is carried out to verify the validity of the numerical simulation results.
Multiple Intravenous Tranexamic Acid Doses After Open Wedge-high Tibial Osteotomy(OW-HTO) Further Reduce Perioperative Blood Loss and Drainage Volume: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Zhimeng , Lu Yao , Liu Lu , Song Leilei , Ma Teng , Li Zhong , Wang Qian , Zhang Kun , Xue Hanzhong 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of tranexamic acid (TXA) in opening wedge high tibial osteotomy(OW-HTO). However, a consensus has not been established regarding the best dosing regimen and timing. In the present study, we aimed to compare three different dosages of intravenous (IV) TXA in OW-HTO.Material and methods A retrospective analysis of the clinical data obtained from patients administered with OW-HTO treatment for knee osteoarthritis from February 2016 to December 2019 was conducted. All operations were performed under general anaesthesia. TXA1 group (18 patients) received 1g of IV TXA administered 15 to 30 minutes pre-operation. TXA2 group (18 patients) received an additional dose of IV TXA (1g) 3 h after incision and the TXA3 group (18 patients) received an additional (third) dose 6 h later(1g). The blood loss and adverse events were compared between the three groups. Functional analysis, quality of life (QoL), and pain assessment were performed based on their corresponding scoring system.Results Baseline data were comparable for all groups. The postoperative drainage volume was calculated for the TXA3 group and the estimated blood loss was significantly reduced (p-value <0.05). The treatment effectively maintained postoperative Hb at a high level (p-value <0.05). In addition, a faster recovery, better QoL, reduced postoperative pain, and no complications were observed in patients belonging to the group TXA3.Conclusion Based on our results, three doses of IV TXA can effectively and safely reduce estimated blood loss and postoperative drainage volume in patients undergoing OW-HTO with additional associated benefits.
Investigation of Ga Doping for Non-stoichiometric Sodium Bismuth Titanate Ceramics
Authors: Li minyan , he chan , wang weiguo , hao gangling , li xianyu , liu ting , wang xinfu , wang dan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The electrical performance of Ga3+ doping Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-based oxygen ion conductor was studied. The Na0.52Bi0.47Ti1−xGaxO3−δ (x = 0, 0.01, 0.015, 0.02) samples were fabricated by the means of traditional solid-state reaction. The results of AC impedance measurement show that the bulk conductivity of Na0.52Bi0.47Ti1−xGaxO3−δ samples decrease monotonously with the increase of Ga3+ doping. At 673 K, the bulk conductivity of the Na0.52Bi0.47Ti0.98Ga0.02O3−δ sample is 7.19×10− 4 S/cm, which is lower than that of Na0.52Bi0.47TiO3−δ sample under the identical test temperature. The highest total conductivity emerges in the Na0.52Bi0.47Ti0.99Ga0.01O3−δ sample with 1.387×10− 4 S/cm at 623 K for the Ga3+ doping content of 1 mol%, which demonstrate that a slight of Ga3+ doping supports the enhancement of the total conductivity. A relaxation peak was observed in the Na0.52Bi0.47Ti1−xGaxO3−δ compounds. As the Ga3+ ions were introduced into the Na0.52Bi0.47TiO3−δ compound, there is an increasing trend of the relaxation activation energy educed by the internal friction test. In addition, the oxygen relaxtion height of Na0.52Bi0.47Ti1−xGaxO3−δ samples decreases along with the introduction of the Ga3+ doping, suggesting that the introduction of the Ga3+ leads to the decrease of mobile oxygen vacancy .
A de novo variant in CASK gene causing intellectual disability and brain hypoplasia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Ying , Nie Yanyan , Mu Yu , Zheng Jie , Xu Xiaowei , Zhang Fang , Shu Jianbo , Liu Yang 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background：The pathogenic variation of CASK gene can cause CASK related mental disorders. The main clinical manifestations are microcephaly with pontine and cerebellar hypoplasia, X-linked mental disorders with or without nystagmus and FG syndrome. The main pathogenic mechanism is the loss of function of related protein caused by mutation. We reported a Chinese male newborn with a de novo variant in CASK gene. Case presentation：We present an 18-day-old baby with intellectual disability and brain hypoplasia. Whole-exome sequencing was performed, which detected a hemizygous missense mutation c.764G>A of CASK gene. The mutation changed the 255th amino acid from Arg to His. Software based bioinformatics analyses were conducted to infer its functional effect.Conclusions：In this paper, a de novo mutation of CASK gene was reported. Moreover, a detailed description of all the cases described in the literature is reported.CASK mutations cause a variety of clinical phenotypes. Its diagnosis is difficult due to the lack of typical clinical symptoms. Genetic testing should be performed as early as possible if this disease is suspected. This case provides an important reference for the diagnosis and treatment of future cases.
Impact of the ultrasonography assessment method on the malignancy risk and diagnostic performance of five risk stratification systems in thyroid nodules
Authors: Yang Go Eun , Na Dong Gyu 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose
Ultrasonographic (US) assessment methods may affect the estimated malignancy risk of thyroid nodules. This study aimed to investigate the impact of retrospective and prospective US assessments on the estimated malignancy risk of US features, classified categories, and diagnostic performance of five risk stratification systems (RSSs) in thyroid nodules.
Methods
A total of 3685 consecutive thyroid nodules (≥ 1 cm) with final diagnoses (retrospective dataset, n = 2180; prospective dataset, n = 1505) were included in this study. We compared the estimated malignancy risk of US features, classified categories, and diagnostic performances of the five common RSSs between retrospective (static US images without cine clips) and prospective datasets of real-time US assessment.
Results
There was no significant difference in the prevalence and histological type of malignant tumours between the two datasets (p ≥ 0.216). The malignancy risk of solid composition and nonparallel orientation was higher and that of microcalcification was lower in the prospective dataset than in the retrospective dataset (p < 0.001, p = 0.018, p = 0.007, respectively). The retrospective US assessment overestimated the malignancy risk of intermediate-or high-risk nodules according to the RSSs. Prospective US assessment showed lower specificities and higher unnecessary biopsy rates by all RSSs compared to the retrospective US assessment (p ≤ 0.006, p ≤ 0.045, respectively).
Conclusions
The overestimated malignancy risk of microcalcification by retrospective US assessment mainly affected the estimated risk of classified categories by RSSs. The retrospective US assessment overestimated the specificities and underestimated the unnecessary biopsy rates by all RSSs.
Cytology Versus Calcitonin Assay in Fine-needle Aspiration Biopsy Wash-out Fluid (FNAB-CT) in Diagnosis of Medullary Thyroid Microcarcinoma.
Authors: Liu Ziyuan , Zhou Wenzhong , Han Rulai , Zhou Wei , Zhang Jie , Li Haorong , Wan Zhihan , Jin Yan , Shen Liyun , Zhou Yulin , Wang Shu , Chen Xi , Ye Lei 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose Widespread use of sensitive ultrasound examination led to an increasing detection of medullary thyroid microcarcinoma (micro-MTC). This prospective study evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of Fine-needle Aspiration Biopsy Cytology (FNAB-C) and calcitonin assay in Fine-needle Aspiration Biopsy wash-out fluid (FNAB-CT) in thyroid nodules less than 1cm with elevated serum calcitonin. Methods 87 thyroid nodules from 60 patients with elevated serum calcitonin(＞10pg/ml) were included and 51 were thyroid nodules less than 1cm. FNAB-CT and FNAB-C was performed to distinguish MTC lesions before surgery, histopathologic diagnoses served as main reference standards.Results FNAB-CT had a greater performance over FNAB-C for preoperative diagnosis of MTC (diagnostic accuracy: 98.85％vs 61.90％, sensitivity: 98.55％ vs 55.07％, specificity: 100％ vs 97.44％), especially for micro-MTC: FNAB-C established a sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy of 48.78％ and 58％ respectively, while FNAB-CT reached 97.56% sensitivity and 98.04% diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions FNAB-CT demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy in diagnosing micro-MTC. Patients with micro thyroid nodules and elevated sCT level should perform FNAB-CT to exclude the diagnosis of MTC lesions.
Morpho-molecular Signal Correlation between Optical Coherence Tomography and Raman Spectroscopy for Superior Image Interpretation and Clinical Diagnosis
Authors: SCHIE IWAN W. , PLACZEK FABIAN , KNORR FLORIAN , CORDERO ELIANA , WURSTER LARA , HERMANN GREGERS G. , MOGENSEN KARIN , HASSELAGER THOMAS , DREXLER WOLFGANG , POPP JÜRGEN , LEITGEB RAINER A. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The combination of manifold optical imaging modalities resulting in multimodal optical systems allows to discover a larger number of biomarkers than using a single modality. The goal of multimodal imaging systems is to increase the diagnostic performance through the combination of complementary modalities, e.g. optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Raman spectroscopy (RS). The physical signal origins of OCT and RS are distinctly different, i.e. in OCT it is elastic back scattering of photons, due to a change in refractive index, while in RS, it is the inelastic scattering between photons and molecules. Despite those diverse characteristics both modalities are also linked via scattering properties and molecular composition of tissue. Here, we investigate for the first time the relation of co-registered OCT and RS signals of human bladder tissue, to demonstrate that the signals of these complementary modalities are inherently intertwined, enabling a direct but more importantly improved interpretation and better understanding of the other modality. This work demonstrates that the benefit for using two complementary imaging approaches is, not only the increased diagnostic value, but the increased information and better understanding of the signal origins of both modalities. This evaluation confirms the advantages for using multimodal imaging systems and also paves the way for significant further improved understanding and clinically interpretation of both modalities in the future.
In Silico Insight into Nucleosome Repositioning Via Oxygen Delivery and Extracellular Movement
Authors: Madison Jacob Duane 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
OBJECTIVEHistones and resulting nucleosomes occur within DNA regulating gene expression by slowing, pausing, or halting transcriptional machinery. Positions within the genome have been found with higher affinity for the histone octamer than others. Histone/nucleosome repositioning is adjusted via energy dependent remodeling complexes, and a harmonizing array of constellation proteins and molecules. The energy required to create transcriptional environments is created through oxygen intake, nutrient presence, and extracellular movement. In this paper we aim to help facilitate an in silico framework for further experimentation into how partial pressures of oxygen and other gases impact genetic transcription along with extracellular movement and nutrient delivery.RESULTSCell and tissue culture experimentation with biomechanical strain and variable partial pressures of oxygen and other gases can be made into the expression levels of genes such as PH domain leucine-rich repeat-containing protein phosphatase 1 (PHLPP1), and Neuroligin 1 (NLGN1). These genes show in silico to have a higher affinity for a histone octamer binding motif, needing adequate cellular energy to be expressed. Extracellular movement and adequate cellular oxygenation are required to properly reposition nucleosome sequences for transcription.
Genetic Diversity of Staphylococcus Saprophyticus Strains Causing Urinary Tract Infections in Lagos Metropolis
Authors: Alao Felix Oluwasegun , Smith Stella Ifeanyi , Omonigbehin Emmanuel Adedayo , Adeleye Isaac Adeyemi 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
ObjectiveStaphylococcus saprophyticus is a Gram-positive bacterium implicated in urinary tract infections in sexually active women along with other bacteria. There is a special need to accurately isolate and identify this organism in clinical specimens in order to prevent misidentification in the laboratory. The present study was carried out to evaluate the genetic diversity of one hundred different Staphylococcus saprophyticus strains isolated from women presenting with urinary tract infections reporting in four government hospitals in Lagos Metropolis using 16SrRNA gene sequence analysis. ResultsThe PCR-amplified and sequenced 16SrRNA gene of 100 isolates and confirmed 88 strains of S. saprophyticus to subspecies level, while 8 belong to other genera and 4 could not be ascertained due to low significant similarity. Phylogenetic analysis showed the interrelationship between the isolates from different hospitals. The results showed the distribution of the isolates into two broad clusters and twenty-two sub-clusters. The results revealed the genetic diversity of Staphylococcus saprophyticus isolated from women with urinary tract infections in Lagos Metropolis using 16SrRNA gene sequence.
Retinoschisis and Norrie Disease: A missing link
Authors: Rajendran Rahini , Dhandayuthapani Sudha , Chidambaram Subbulakshmi , Nagarajan Hemavathy , Vetrivel Umashankar , Arunachalam Jayamuruga Pandian 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Objective: Retinoschisis and Norrie disease are X-linked recessive retinal disorders caused by mutations in RS1 and NDP genes respectively. Both are likely to be monogenic and no locus heterogeneity has been reported. However, there are reports showing overlapping features of Norrie disease and retinoschisis in a NDP knock-out mouse model and also the involvement of both the genes in retinoschisis patients. Yet, the exact molecular relationships between the two disorders have still not been understood. The study investigated the association between retinoschisin (RS1) and norrin (NDP) using in vitro and in silico approaches. Specific protein-protein interaction between RS1 and NDP was analyzed in human retina by co-immunoprecipitation assay and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. STRING database was used to explore the functional relationship. Result: Co-immunoprecipitation demonstrated lack of a direct interaction between RS1 and NDP and was further substantiated by mass spectrometry. However, STRING revealed a potential indirect functional association between the two proteins. Progressively, our analyses indicate that FZD4 protein interactome via PLIN2 as well as the MAP kinase signaling pathway to be a likely link bridging the functional relationship between retinoschisis and Norrie disease.
Remarks of Eimeria labbeana infection in Egyptian pigeons
Authors: Abolhadid Shawky M , Araf Waleed M , Abdelaty Asmaa S , Moawad Usama K , El-Ashram Saeed , gad sahar Mohammed 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This work was conducted to investigate the course of Eimeria labbeana infection in Egyptian pigeons (Columbia Livia). Thirty squabs were experimentally infected orally with 2.5 x104 sporulated Eimeria labbeana oocysts. Daily scarification of three squabs was done from day one post-infection (PI) until day 8 PI for following of the endogenous stages in tissue samples and 6 squabs were kept to follow the patent period and daily oocyst shedding. Paraffin-embedded intestinal samples were sectioned and stained for differentiation of parasitic stages. The infected squabs showed greenish watery diarrhea, weakness, rough feathers, and decrease food intake at day 5 PI. The pre-patent and patent periods were 6 and 14 days PI respectively. The oocyst shedding started at day 6 PI and reached the peak at day 8 PI. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of three schizont stages, macro-and micro-gametes, and oocysts in the duodenal and jejunal parts of the small intestine. In conclusion, it is the first study on Egypt on Eimeria labbeana in Egyptian pigeons and its biology is like recorded before.
Potassium Electrolyte Serum - Urine , and Creatinine in Chronic Kidney Diseases
Authors: samsuria dr. Indranila KS Kustarini , Mutalib Peni K Samsuria , Adirahardja Arindra Adirahardja 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: The kidneys are important organs in the human body that have many functions. Kidney function is divided into several processes, namely filtration, reabsorption and secretion of substances in the body. Nephron which is the smallest kidney functional unit that is responsible for accommodating all functions in the kidney. One of the functions of the kidneys is secretion, the secretions in the kidneys work by removing electrolytes and other substances that are no longer needed by the body through urine. When the function of the kidney nephrons is disturbed, it can result in an electrolyte imbalance (K), a buildup of waste from substances that are not needed by the body (creatinine). The objective of this research was to examine the relationship between electrolytes (K) serum, urine and creatinine in patients with CKD.Methods: The research was conducted by observational, anamnesis, and sampling of CKD patients at Dr. Kariadi Semarang during the period March-May 2020.Results: The results of the multivariate linear regression test showed that creatinine had a moderate significant positive effect at p = 0.024 and r = 0.412 on serum K. Meanwhile, from multivariate linear regression, it was found that creatinine had a moderate negative effect at p = 0.027 and r = -0.456 on urine K.Conclusions and suggestions: The findings proved the relationship between creatinine levels and serum and urine potassium levels in patients with CKD. Serum and urine electrolytes can be used as an parameter for CKD management.
Expression of mRNAs for Pro-and Anti-Apoptotic Factors in Granulosa Cells and Follicular Fluid of Women Undergoing in Vitro Fertilization. A Pilot Study
Authors: Bodis Jozsef , Sulyok Endre , Varnagy Akos , Prémusz Viktória , Godony Krisztina , Makai Alexandra , Szenczi Agnes , Varjas Timea 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThis observational clinical study evaluated the expression levels and predictive values of some apoptosis-related genes in granulosa cells (GCs) and follicular fluid (FF) of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF).Methods GCs and FF were obtained at oocyte retrieval from 31 consecutive patients with heterogeneous infertility diagnosis (age: 34.3±5.8 years, body mass index: 24.02±3.12 kg/m2, duration of infertility: 4.2±2.1 years). mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic (BAX, CASP3, CASP8) and anti-apoptotic (BCL2, AMH, AMHR, FSHR, LHR, CYP19A1) factors was determined by quantitative RT-PCR using ROCHE LightCycler 480. Results No significant difference in GC or FF mRNA expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic factors could be demonstrated between IVF patients with (9 patients) or without (22 patients) clinical pregnancy. Each transcript investigated was detected in FF, but their levels were markedly reduced and independent of those in GCs. The number of retrieved oocytes was positively associated with GC AMHR (r=0.393, p=0.029), but the day of embryo transfer was negatively associated with GC LHR (r=-0.414, p=0.020) and GC FSHR transcripts (r=-0.535, p=0.002). When pregnancy positive group was analysed separately the impact of apoptosis- related gene expressions on some selected measures of IVF success could be observed. Strong positive relationship was found between gene expression levels of pro- and anti-apoptotic factors in GCs.ConclusionOur study provides only marginal evidences for the apoptosis dependence of IVF outcome and suggests that the apoptosis process induces adaptive increases of the anti-apoptotic gene expression to attenuate apoptosis and to protect cell survival.