bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Correlated Damage Probabilities of Bridges In Seismic Risk Assessment of Transportation Networks
Authors: Borzoo Shahin , Bastami Morteza , Fallah Afshin , Garakaninezhad Alireza , Abbasnejadfard Morteza 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
This paper aims to identify and use a logistic regression approach to model the spatial correlation of damage probabilities in expanded transportation networks. This paper uses Bayesian theory and the multinomial logistic model to analyze the different damage states and damage probabilities of bridges by considering the damage correlation. The correlation of the damage probabilities is considered both in different bridges of a network and in the different damage states of each bridge. The correlation model of the damage probabilities is considered in the seismic assessment of a part of the Tehran transportation network with 26 bridges. Moreover, the extra daily traffic time (EDTT) is selected as an operational parameter of the transportation network, and the shortest path algorithm is considered to select the path between two nodes. The results show that including the correlation of the damage probabilities decreases the travel time of the selected network. The average decreasing in the correlated case compared to the uncorrelated case, using two selected EDTT models are 53% and 71%, respectively.
Boosting the surface conduction in a topological insulator
Authors: Taupin Mathieu , Eguchi Gaku , Budnowski Monika , Steiger-Thirsfeld Andreas , Ishida Yukiaki , Kuroda Kenta , Shin Shik , Kimura Akio , Paschen Silke 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
The protected surface conduction of topological insulators is in high demand for the next generation of electronic devices. What is needed to move forward are robust settings where topological surface currents can be controlled by simple means, ideally by the application of external stimuli. Surprisingly, this direction is only little explored and the role of topological states in such processes has remained obscure. In this work we demonstrate that we can boost the surface conduction of a topological insulator by light and/or electric field. This happens in a fully controlled way, and the additional Dirac carriers exhibit ultra-long live times. We provide a comprehensive understanding—carriers injection from the bulk to the surface states across an intrinsic Schottky barrier—and expect this mechanism to be at play in a broad range of materials and experimental settings.
Rationale and Design of Different Self-care Models for Adults With Heart Failure: a Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Mingzhi , Dai Hengheng , Zhou Kehua , Zhang Jingjing , Chen Ying , Zhang Xuecheng , Wan Siqi , Guan Zhiyue , Liu Yan , Shang Hongcai 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Active self-care improves quality of life, lowers hospital readmission risks, and decreases mortality from heart failure. Different self-care intervention models for these patients involve a variety of care contributions from healthcare professionals and caregivers, and little is known about which self-care intervention model is the most effective.Methods: We will search the MEDLINE/PubMed, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, Embase and PsycINFO databases from January, 2000 to April, 2021. The gray literature will also be searched to ensure randomized controlled trials are included as comprehensively as possible. Summary standardized mean differences and 95% credible intervals will be calculated via Bayesian random-effects network meta-analysis. Heterogeneity will be evaluated, and risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.Discussion: This network meta-analysis will analyze outcomes including quality of life, healthcare use, readmission rate, and mortality to identify the most effective intervention model.Impact: We will analyze self-care interventions and determine which is most effective through this meta‐analysis.Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42021253179
Attenuated Function of Angiotensin-(1-7) in Placental Artery During Preeclampsia not through MAS1 Receptor
Authors: Lu Likui , Shi Yajun , Zhu Dan , Liu Jingliu , Zhang Tiantian , Li Weisheng , Zhang Mengshu , Guo Huimin , Han Bing , Gao Qinqin , Chen Youguo , Xia Fei , He Qi , Li Min , Sun Miao 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: As a counter-regulatory component of the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS), the angiotensin-(1–7) [Ang-(1–7)] plays a protective role in cardiovascular diseases. However, the association between Ang-(1–7) and preeclampsia in humans is unclear. Methods: Experiments were conducted in the placentas and peripheral blood collected from 32 women with normal pregnancy and 20 women with preeclampsia.Results: The vasocontractions induced by Ang II were significantly inhibited by Ang-(1-7) in the normal placental artery (P<0.001) but not in the preeclampsia group. Treatment with A779 (MAS1R inhibitor) and PD (AT2R inhibitor) could not block the inhibitory effect of Ang-(1-7) on Ang II-induced vasoconstriction. Real-time quantitative PCR indicated that the mRNA levels of AT1R was significantly decreased (P<0.001) in preeclamptic group. In Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining experiment, the placental artery in preeclamptic group were with a greater wall thickness and a smaller luminal area than those in normal group. In addition, as the consequence of the activation of β-arrestin pathway, the phosphorylation level of ERK protein was significantly reduced (P<0.01) in the nucleus and significantly increased (P<0.05) in the cytoplasm of placental vascular tissue in preeclamptic group. Discussion: Together, these data indicated that Ang-(1-7) antagonizes the function of Ang II in placenta vessels of normal pregnant women, but this effect is obviously eliminated in preeclampsia. Treatment with A779 and PD indicated that Ang-(1-7) may not exert its effect through MAS1R and AT2R. Persistent activation of the β-arrestin pathway and the weaken function of Ang-(1-7) in placental artery might contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
Job Satisfaction Scores of Lebanese and Jordanian Nephrologists and Their Association with Age, Gender, Workload and Income
Authors: Aoun Mabel , Breiteh Nour , Kassak Kassem 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The main challenges that nephrologists are facing worldwide are lower income, dissatisfactory payment models, long work hours and burnout. This study aimed to identify factors associated with nephrologists' satisfaction in Lebanon and Jordan. METHODS: A survey was sent to Lebanese and Jordanian nephrologists about demographics, job satisfaction (5-Likert scale), workload and reimbursement. RESULTS: Sixty-seven nephrologists responded, 59 were complete. Mean age was 46.9 ±12.5 years, 39% women. Mean total job satisfaction score was 3.39±0.45. Respondents reported low rates of satisfaction towards job opportunities (20%), income (25%) and administrative support (32%) and high satisfaction rates in relationship with patients (78%) and colleagues (73%). 62.7% of respondents were paid fee for service and income was significantly higher among males (p<0.001). Lebanese nephrologists had payment delays of 12 months and it was significantly associated with lower work-life balance (p=0.038). 61% of respondents worked > 30 hours weekly and 22% followed > 40 dialysis patients. Using regression analysis, older age, working > 10 hours per week and monthly income > 5000 US$ were significantly associated with higher total job satisfaction score (p= 0.002, 0.004 and 0.028 respectively). Satisfaction towards income was significantly lower among females (p < 0.024). Finally, gender discrimination was significantly perceived by women (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Younger age, less workload, lower income and payment delays are associated with dissatisfaction among the surveyed nephrologists. Gender differences are significant with lower satisfaction among women. Decision makers need to address payment delays, support women and regulate students' entry to nephrology programs to avoid unemployment.
Meditation Programs for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Mei Manxue , Jiang Min , Li Zunjiang , Zhu Wei , Song Jianping 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
BackgroundType 2 diabetes mellitus is intimately linked to chronic stress. Meditation programs belong to mind-body therapies, which could benefit patients’ disease management. Though some clinical trials have proved that meditation programs have the ability to improve level of blood glucose, quality of life, body mass index and blood indexes related to metabolism in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the efficacy of meditation programs needs further confirmation. Thus, we will conduct this systematic evaluation and meta-analysis to summarize and analyze all the results included to obtain reliable evidence.MethodWe will search several English and Chinese databases for relevant clinical trials published up to July 2021, and randomized controlled trials or controlled trials among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus are included. Two reviewers will extract data and assess the quality of included studies independently. The main outcomes of this research are glycosylated hemoglobin level and fasting blood glucose level. The secondary outcomes are high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, body mass index, remission of depression and anxiety, and quality of life. Stata v.14.0 and Review Manager V5.3 will be used to synthesize and analyze all data included.DiscussionThis systematic review is the first to analyze the efficacy of different types of meditation for type 2 diabetes mellitus, which could provide evidence for the use of mediation programs as non-drug approaches. Lack of enough randomized controlled trials is the main limitation of this protocol. So, we will gradually finish this protocol in the future and reduce the risk of bias.Registrationhttps://doi.org/10.37766/inplasy2021.10.0008. NO. 2021100008.
Imported Cases of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Cuba, 2017: Role of Human Movement.
Authors: Monzote Lianet , González Daniel , Blanco Orestes , Fraga Jorge , Capó Virginia , Herrera Alberto , Montalvo Ana Margarita 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by several species from genus Leishmania. An increase in the number of cases related to human movement has been informed in the last years. Due to the increase of suspicious leishmaniasis cases arriving in Cuba during 2017, an general analysis is presented herein. Methods: Clinical samples were collected from 5 patients suspicious of leishmaniasis, received from January to December 2017 at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Pedro Kourí, Cuba. Skin lesion samples were analyzed using different diagnostic assays: direct smear, histological examination, and molecular analysis for species identification. Epidemiological and demographic data were requested from each case and analyzed. Treatment and follow up of patient was also performed.Results: Five cases were confirmed as Leishmania infection according to microscopic observation and molecular methods results. PCR-18S, PCR-N/RFLP and PCR-F/RFLP identified the following species: L. panamensis (2 cases), L. braziliensis (1 case), L.panamensis/L.guyanensis (1 case), L. mexicana complex (1 case). In treated patients, drugs were well tolerated, cure were documented and no relapse have been currently reported (3 years later).Conclusions: Clinical characteristics, demographic data, and epidemiological features of infection for each case evidence the potential risk related with travel to endemic areas of leishmaniasis.
Prognostic value of combining c-reactive protein and quick sequential organ failure assessment for adult inpatients: A systematic review
Authors: Zacharakis Alexandra , Ackermann Khalia , Hughes Clifford , Lam Vincent , Li Ling 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
ObjectiveTo examine the prognostic performance of combining the biomarker c-reactive protein (CRP) with the quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA) bedside tool on mortality prediction in adult inpatients.MethodsWe searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, CINAHL, Open Grey, Grey Literature Report, and the Clinical Trials registry. Title, abstract, and full text screening were performed by two independent reviewers using pre-determined eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria were (i) original research, (ii) adult populations, (iii) a comparison between qSOFA and qSOFA combined with CRP, and (iv) set in a hospital environment. The same two reviewers independently extracted data into a pre-designed form and performed a risk of bias assessment using the Quality Assessment tool for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies version 2 (QUADAS-2). Disagreements were settled through discussion and a third reviewer was consulted if necessary. Our primary outcome is mortality.ResultsThree retrospective studies with a total of 1521 patients were included in the review. Adding CRP to qSOFA improved the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC) value in all three studies by 3-10%. In the two studies with available data, the addition of CRP improved the sensitivity of qSOFA for mortality risk stratification by 43% and 71%, while decreasing the specificity by 12% and 7% respectively. The cut-off values of CRP ranged from 60 to 128.8mg/L across the three studies. A meta-analysis was not performed due to the heterogeneity across studies and the small sample size.ConclusionsThis comprehensive review provides initial evidence that combining CRP with qSOFA could improve the prognostic performance of qSOFA alone in identifying patients at risk of dying in hospital. The combined tool demonstrates potential to improve patient outcomes, especially in low resource settings. The review also reveals research gaps in this area.RegistrationPROSPERO registration No. CRD42020190973
Environmental Management System for Small Business
Authors: Lima Suany Nayra Rodrigues , Monteiro Nathalie Barbosa Reis , Neto José Machado Moita , Silva Elaine Aparecida da 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
The upholstery remanufacturing service is an activity that provides for the sale of products that contain reused items, extending their lifespan. The objective of this study is to propose a simple and feasible Environmental Management System (EMS) for small businesses, particularly, for the upholstery company sector. The implementation of the existing EMS standards is hampered by the lack of elements in the upholstery companies. Thus, the implementation of an EMS is still far from the reality of these small enterprises. Visits were made to twenty-eight upholstery companies in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, to get to know the sector and accompany the production process, as well as observing the activity's environmental aspects. The EMS standards do not meet the needs of small businesses, however, it is possible to outline a minimum set of procedures for improving the enterprise’ sustainability, such as the environmental organization, employees training, reducing material losses, using Personal Protective Equipment, the adequate destination of residues, allowing the reuse of materials wasted in the process, among others. The results provide subsidies for application to small companies in Brazil and other parts of the world, once there is a low incidence of scientific work with this bias.
Semi-Synthesis and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Pyrimidine, Thiazole, and Indole Analogues of Argentatins A–C from Guayule (Parthenium Argentatum) Resin
Authors: Madasu Chandrashekhar , Xu Ya-Ming , Wijeratne E. M. Kithsiri , Liu Manping X. , Molnár István , GUNATILAKA Leslie 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Argentatins A–C (1–3), the major cycloartane-type triterpenoids of guayule resin, a byproduct of commercial rubber production, were converted into their pyrimidine (7–12), thiazole (13–15), and indole (16–18) analogues by a molecular hybridization approach. The cytotoxic activities of these fused heterocyclic analogues 7–18 were compared with those of argentatins A–C (1–3) against a panel of three sentinel human cancer cell lines [NCI-H460 (non-small cell lung), MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), and SF-268 (central nervous system glioma)], and normal human fibroblast (WI-38) cells. The cytotoxicity data suggest that the pyrimidine analogues 7 and 8 (derived from 1), 9 and 10 (derived from 2), and 12 (derived from 3 ) had significantly enhanced activity compared to the parent compounds or their thiazole (13–15) and indole (16–18) analogues. These findings indicate that triterpenoid constituents of guayule resin may be exploited to obtain value-added products with potential applications in anticancer drug discovery.
Bdh1-Mediated βOHB Metabolism Ameliorates Diabetic Kidney Disease by Activation of Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidative Pathway
Authors: Wan Sheng-rong , Teng Fang-yuan , Fan Wei , Li Xin-yue , Xu Bu-tuo , Tan Xiao-zhen , Guo Man , Gao Chen-lin , Jiang Zong-zhe , Xu Yong 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Ketogenic diet (KD) and β-Hydroxybutyrate (βOHB) has been widely reported as an effective therapy for metabolic diseases. β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 (Bdh1) is the rate-limiting enzyme of ketone metabolism. In this study, we investigated the Bdh1-mediated βOHB metabolic pathway in pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Human renal tubule epithelial cells (HK-2 cells) induced by high glucose (HG) or palmitic acid (PA) were used to transfect with Bdh1 siRNA or plasmid-flag-Bdh1. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, nuclear factor red 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein expression, and βOHB-acetoacetate (AcAc)-succinate-fumarate metabolic flux were detected. Five-week-old C57 BKS db/db obese diabetic mice (db/db) and their littermate controls (+/+) were treated with KD, βOHB, and adeno-associated virus (AAV9)-Bdh1, respectively. Renal function was determined by urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), and histopathological, immunohistochemistry (IHC), TUNEL staining of kidney were also performed. The renal expression of Bdh1 was down-regulated in DKD mouse models, diabetic patients and HG or PA induced HK-2 cells. Bdh1 overexpression or βOHB treatment protected HK-2 cells from glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity by inhibiting ROS overproduction. Mechanistically, Bdh1-mediated βOHB metabolism activated Nrf2 through enhancement of metabolic flux composed of βOHB-acetoacetate-succinate-fumarate. Moreover, in vivo studies showed that AAV9-mediated Bdh1 renal expression successfully reversed the fibrosis, inflammation and apoptosis in kidneys from C57 BKS db/db mice. Notably, either βOHB supplementation or KD feeding could elevate the renal expression of Bdh1 and reverse the progression of DKD. Our results revealed a Bdh1-mediated molecular mechanism in pathogenesis of DKD and identified Bdh1 as a potential therapeutic target for DKD.
Quantitative Real Time PCR (qPCR) Screening Confirms Babesia Bovis Infections in Cattle in Kenya
Authors: Githaka Naftaly W. , Bishop Richard P. , Šlapeta Jan , Emery David , Nguu Edward K. , Kanduma Esther G. 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
BackgroundAmong protozoan parasites in the genus Babesia, Babesia bigemina is endemic and widespread in the East African region while the status of the more pathogenic Babesia bovis remains unclear despite the presence of the tick vector, Rhipicephalus microplus which transmits both species. Recent studies have confirmed the occurrence of R. microplus in coastal Kenya and although B. bovis DNA has previously been detected in cattle blood in Kenya, no surveillance has been done to establish its prevalence. This study therefore investigated the occurrence of B. bovis in cattle in Kwale County, Kenya, where R. microplus is present in large numbers. MethodA quantitative species-specific multiplex Taqman PCR assay targeting two Babesia bovis genes, 18S ribosomal RNA and mitochondrially-encoded cytochrome b and Babesia bigemina cytochrome b gene was used to screen 506 cattle blood DNA samples collected from Kwale County for presence of Babesia parasite DNA. ResultsA total of 131 animals (25.8%) were found to have bovine babesiosis. Of these, 87 (17.2%) were positive for B. bovis while 70 (13.8%) had B. bigemina while 26 (5.1%) were observed to be co-infected with both Babesia species. A total of 61 animals (12.1%) were found to be infected with B. bovis parasites only, while 44 animals (8.7%) had B. bigemina only. B. bovis infections were detected in 11 sites while B. bigemina was detected in 9 out of the 12 sites sampled in three Kwale sub-Counties.ConclusionThese findings reveal high prevalence of pathogenic B. bovis in a Kenyan area cutting across a busy transboundary livestock trade route with neighboring Tanzania. The Babesia multiplex assay used in this study is specific and can detect and differentiate the two Babesia species and should be used for routine B. bovis surveillance to monitor the spread and establishment of the pathogen in other African countries where B. bigemina is endemic. Moreover, these findings reveal a potential threat of fatal babesiosis in the absence of endemic stability in the local cattle populations.
Vegetation and Water of Some Spring-Wells of Po Valley (Northern Italy): Ecological Features and Management Proposals
Authors: Giupponia Luca , Borgonovo Gigliola , Zuccolo Marco , Leoni Valeria , Bischetti Gian Battista 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Spring-wells (lowland springs, “fontanili”) are elements of Po Valley (Northern Italy) with ecological and historical importance: they provide water at a relatively constant temperature, generating unique ecosystems dependent on the groundwater outflow. Despite their importance, they are endangered by degradation processes as the expansion of urban areas and/or the intensification of agriculture, very marked in Po Valley. This research describes four spring-wells of Po Valley from a botanical and ecological perspective through phytosociological relevés and different ecological indexes. Water chemical-physical features are also considered (pH, temperature and ammonium ion, nitrite, nitrate, orthophosphate, chloride and organic matters contents). Plant communities of the spring-well beds shows a low number of species (5.8 ± 2.9) but also no exotic species while the vegetation of the banks has a high number of species (32.4 ± 9.8) but several of them are exotic/ornamental, with a low ecological value of the Ecological Index of Maturity (EIM = 4.4 ± 1.5) indicating disturbances, however moderate compared to the surrounding corn fields (EIM = 0.002 ± 0.001). All the water samples has high ammonium content (>0.50 ppm), the water of the spring-well B results the most polluted and both algae and Callitriche obtusangula (rare native species) grow largely in it, while spring-well C has less phosphates and more nitrite and is marked by the abundance of Equisetum telmateia. Exotic but historically important species as Morus alba were considered in the discussion, where management proposals to protect and enhance the studied spring-wells and others with similar characteristics are discussed.