bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Safety of VNS Therapy or Continued Medication Management for Treatment of Adults with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Batson Sarah , Shankar Rohit , Conry Joan , Boggs Jane , Radtke Rodney , Mitchell Stephen , Barion Francesca , Murphy Joanna , Danielson Vanessa 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) Therapy® is an adjunctive neurostimulation treatment for people withdrug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) who are unwilling to undergo resective surgery, have had unsuccessfulsurgery or are unsuitable for surgery. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted todetermine the treatment effects of VNS Therapy as an adjunct to anti-seizure medications (ASMs) forthe management of adults with DRE.A literature search was performed in August 2020 of the Medline®, Medline® Epub Ahead of Print,Embase, and the Cochrane library databases. Outcomes examined included reduction in seizurefrequency, seizure freedom, ASM load, discontinuations, and serious adverse events (SAEs).Comparators included best medical practice, ASMs, low-stimulation or sham VNS Therapy.Four RCTs and six comparative observational studies were identified for inclusion. Against comparators,individuals treated with VNS had a significantly better odds of experiencing a ≥50% reduction in seizurefrequency (OR: 2.27 [95% CI: 1.47, 3.51]; p=0.0002), a ≥75% reduction in seizure frequency (OR: 3.56[95% CI: 1.59, 7.98]; p=0.002) and a reduced risk for increased ASM load (risk ratio: 0.36 [95% CI: 0.21,0.62]; p=0.0002). There was no difference in the odds of discontinuation or the rate of SAEs betweenVNS versus comparators.This meta-analysis demonstrated the benefits of VNS Therapy in people with DRE, which includedimprovement in seizure frequency without an increase in the rate of SAEs or discontinuations, therebysupporting the consideration of VNS Therapy for people who are not responding to ASMs and thoseunsuitable or unwilling to undergo surgery.
Multiple Trauma in Pregnant Women: Injury Assessment, Fetal Radiation Exposure and Mortality. A Multicentre Observational Study.
Authors: Abback Paër-sélim , Benchetrit Alison , Delhaye nathalie , Daire Jean-Luc , James Arthur , Neuschwander Arthur , Boutonnet Mathieu , Cook Fabrice , Vinour Hélène , Hanouz Jean-Luc , Cotte Jean , Pastene Bruno , Jouffroy Virdiana , Gauss Tobias 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Purpose: Fetal radiation exposure in pregnant women with trauma is a concern. The purpose of this study was to evaluate fetal radiation exposure with regard to the type of injury assessment performed.Methods: It is a multicentre observational study. The cohort study included all pregnant women suspected of severe traumatic injury in the participating centres of a national trauma research network. The primary outcome was the cumulative radiation dose (mGy) received by the fetus with respect to the type of injury assessment initiated by the physician in charge of the pregnant patient. Secondary outcomes were maternal and fetal morbi-mortality, the incidence of haemorrhagic shock and the physicians’ imaging assessment with consideration of their medical specialty.Results: Fifty-four pregnant women were admitted for potential major trauma between September 2011 and December 2019 in the 21 participating centres. The median gestational age was 22 weeks [12-30]. Seventy-eight percent of women (n=42) underwent WBCT. The remaining patients underwent radiographs, ultrasound or selective CT scans based on clinical examination. The median fetal radiation doses were 38 mGy [23-63] and 0 mGy [0-1]. Maternal mortality (5.6%) was lower than fetal mortality (16.7%). Two women (out of 3 maternal deaths) and 7 fetuses (out of 9 fetal deaths) died within the first 24 hours following trauma.Conclusion: Immediate WBCT for initial injury assessment in pregnant women with trauma was associated with a fetal radiation dose below the 100 mGy threshold. Among the selected population with either a stable status with a moderate and nonthreatening injury pattern or isolated penetrating trauma, a selective strategy seemed safe.
The first epiphytic macrolichen and its implication to the interacting with Mesozoic forest ecosystem
Authors: Yang Qiuxia , Wang Yanyan , Lücking Robert , Lumbsch Thorsten , Wang Xin , Du Zhenyong , Chen Yunkang , Bai Ming , Ren Dong , Wei Jiangchun , Li Hu , Wang Yongjie , Wei Xinli 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Lichens are well known as pioneer organisms or stress-tolerant extremophiles playing a core role in the early formation of terrestrial ecosystems, of which epiphytic lichens make a distinct contribution to the water-cycle and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystem. But due to the scarcity of relevant fossil records, the evolutionary history of epiphytic lichens is poorly documented. Herein, based on the new material of Daohugouthallus ciliiferus, we demonstrated that the hitherto oldest macrolichen inhabited a gymnosperm branch, representing the first unambiguous Jurassic epiphytic lichen. Combing the fossil and extant macrolichen representatives, we performed the geometric morphometric analysis and comprehensive comparison to infer the systematic status of this rare Jurassic macrolichen. The results declared that D. ciliiferus cannot be assigned to any known macrolichen lineages for its elder age and particular habits, and therefore a new family, Daohugouthallaceae was proposed. This work updated the current knowledge to the historical evolution of epiphytic lichens, implying the macrolichens may have diversified much earlier than the generally accepted K–Pg boundary. In addition, our new finding also provided direct evidence for tracing the continuing joint development of epiphytic lichens and forest ecosystem since the Jurassic of 165 Mya.
Monte-Carlo simulation for moderate seismic zones using artificial accelerograms
Authors: BOUNSIR ILIAS 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The present technical note deals with a new method to generate seismic accelerograms based on statistical characteristics and the classification of seismic waves. A short heterogeneous sitebased analyse of these accelerograms is given with a seismic wave propagation code in 1D. After, a numerical simulation is done in order to obtain PGA using Newmark’s explicit scheme, and finally, Monte-Carlo simulation is used to determinate failure’s probability of structures localised in moderate seismic zones in hexagonal France.
Potential remediators in the rice production area of Zambales, Philippines contaminated with mine tailing
Authors: Ramos Perfecto Salvador , Manangkil Oliver Escaño 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
High concentration of cadmium and lead are hazardous to environment. The study isolated and identified potential fungal, bacterial and hyperaccumulating plants as bioremediators in contaminated rice ecosystem. Fungi were identified morphologically and with the use of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region sequencing. Bacteria were identified using 16S ribosomal RNA sequences. Plants were analyzed for Cadmium and Lead accumulation in root and shoot tissues using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Fungal species including Penicillium janthinellum, Trichoderma hamatum, Trichoderma harzianum, and Curvularia lunata along with bacterial species such as Bacillus cereus, Bacillus thuringiensis, Pseudomonas gessardii, Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus, Lysinibacillus sphaericus, and two species of unidentified bacteria were identified. Plants predominant in the area includes Cyperus difformis, Scirpus juncoides, Fimbristylis miliacea, Centella asiatica, Sphagneticola trilobata, and Monochoria vaginalis. Cadmium was detected in the shoots of S. trilobata (3.2 mg kg−1) and roots of C. asiatica (3.6 mg kg−1). Lead was found in the shoots of C. asiatica (2.8 mg kg−1) and roots of both S. juncoides (15.00 mg kg−1) and F. miliacea (15.00 mg kg−1). Phytoremediation potential of S. juncoides, F. miliacea, C. asiatica and S. trilobata was observed. Heavy metal resistant microbes can be harnessed as a very useful biological tool for in-situ bioremediation.
Isolation of Clostridium Perfringens type C from a Neonatal Yangtze Finless Porpoise (Neophocaena Asiaeorientalis Asiaeorientalis)
Authors: Li Jia , McLaughlin Richard William , Liu Yingli , Zhou Junying , Hu Xueying , Wan Xiaoling , Xie Haixia , Hao Yujiang , Zheng Jinsong 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The aim of this study was to culture pathogenic bacteria from the blowhole, lung, stomach and fecal samples of a neonatal crucially endangered Yangtze finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis) that died 27 days after birth. Bacteria were inoculated and representative isolates were identified through 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. A total of three Clostridium perfringens type C strains from the fecal samples were isolated. Toxin genes, including cpa, cpb and cpb2, were detected by PCR amplification, while the etx, iap and cpe genes were absent. Biofilm formation of the three strains was examined. Only one strain was able to form a biofilm. In addition, isolates showed strong resistance against the antibiotics amikacin (3/3), erythromycin (1/3), gentamicin (3/3), streptomycin (3/3), and trimethoprim (3/3), while sensitivity to ampicillin (3/3), bacitracin (3/3), erythromycin (2/3), penicillin G (3/3), and tetracycline (3/3). The results suggested C. perfringens type C could have contributed to the death of this neonatal porpoise.
Comparison of Easydo Activator, Ultrasonic and Needle Irrigation Techniques on Sealer Penetration in Extracted Human Teeth
Authors: Tan Li , Zhou Ying-Hui , Feng Yao , Ye Qin , Zhang Shao-Hui , Gao Zheng-Rong , Zhao Jie , Zhao Ya-Qiong , Hu Jing , Chen Yun , Liu Qiong , Aimee Dusenge Marie , Guo Yue , Feng Yun-Zhi 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
This study compared the effects of different irrigation systems on sealer penetration at the root apex. Forty-two single-rooted teeth were prepared and randomly divided into three groups (n = 14): group 1: needle irrigation (NI); group 2: passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI); and group 3: Easydo Activator (EA). A solution of 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) was used for irrigation. Nine teeth in each group were filled with AH Plus sealer mixed with CY5 fluorescent dye and a single gutta-percha cone. The sealer penetration area, maximum penetration depth and percentage of sealer penetration at 5 mm and 1 mm from the apex were analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The remaining 5 teeth in each group were subjected to test smear layer scores by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The CLSM evaluation showed that increases in the area, depth and percentage of sealer penetration were detected at 1 mm and 5 mm from the root apex in the PUI group compared with the NI group, and greater increases were observed in the EA group (P < 0.05). The SEM experiment showed that the lowest scores for the smear layer and debris removal were achieved by the EA group when compared with the PUI and NI groups (P < 0.05). Our study supports EA was superior to PUI and NI regarding sealer penetration at the root apex during endodontic treatment, and it could provide a new technical idea for clinical root canal therapy.
Over-whitening or Pre-whitening in Hydro-climatological Trend Analysis?
Authors: Sen Zekai 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
To meet the basic assumption of classical Mann-Kendall (MK) trend analysis, which requires serially independent time series, a pre-whitening (PW) procedure is proposed to alleviate the serial correlation structure of a given hydro-meteorological time series records for application. The procedure is simply to take the lagged differences in a given time series in the hope that the new time series will have an independent serial correlation coefficient. The whole idea was originally based on the first-order autoregressive AR (1) process, but such a procedure has been documented to damage the trend component in the original time series. On the other hand, the over-whitening procedure (OW) proposes a white noise process superposition of the same length with zero mean and some standard deviation on the original time series to convert it into serially independent series without any damage to the trend component. The stationary white noise addition does not have any trend components. For trend identification, annual average temperature records in New Jersey and Istanbul are presented to show the difference between PW and OW procedures. It turned out that the OW procedure was superior to the PW procedure, which did not cause a loss in the original trend component.
Introgression Progress for Phenotypic Traits and Parent-progeny Diversity at Advanced Segregation Population From Oryza Barthii and Oryza Glaberrima/oryza Sativa Crosses
Authors: Popoola Bosede , Adewale Daniel , Okonji Christopher , Balogun Morufat 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Rice is a cereal staple of global fame and importance. Oryza barthii, a wild species holds significant traits and its utilization in rice breeding is rare. This study traced introgression trend of heritable traits in the offspring of O. barthii with an Africa-Asian progenitor to F8 and assessed diversity between the parents and the F8 population. Significant (P<0.05) genotypic variation existed for all the traits except tiller number, panicle/meter squared, grains/panicle and 1000 grain weight. Grains/panicle and days to 50% flowering had respective least (3.34%) and highest (96.32%) broad sense heritabilities. All traits had lower GCV compared to PCV. The least (5.28% and 8.05%) and the highest (90.8% and 98.1%) GCV and PCV were respectively from grains/panicle and tiller number. Clear variations on the panicles and grains include: variations in sizes, shapes, colours, presence or absence of awns. The total variance explained by five principal component axes was 80.1%. Plant height at maturity was the only trait with significant (p ≤ 0.01) correlation and regression between F6 and F7. Progenies resemblance to Parent 1(IRGC 104084) retrogressively declined but parent-offspring to parent 2 (TGS 25) progressively increased from F6 to F8. Three visible groups of rice type in this study were: the O. barthii (11%), O. sativa (67%) and the intermediate group (22%). This research has added to rice genetic resources; an investigation of the nutritional status of the progenies would be an interesting research.
Adequate Immunogenicity And Low Rate of Severe Adverse Events After SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-Based Vaccination In Patients With Solid Malignancies On Active Treatment Starts To Decline 3 Months After Complete Primary Course of Vaccination
Authors: Janzic Urska , Bidovec-Stojkovic Urska , Mohorcic Katja , Mrak Loredana , Dovnik Nina Fokter , Ivanovic Marija , Ravnik Maja , Caks Marina , Skof Erik , Debeljak Jerneja , Korosec Peter , Rijavec Matija 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in cancer patients is crucial since they are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 disease course, but data on efficacy and safety of vaccination are scarce.Methods: We performed a prospective observational study of patients with solid cancers on active anticancer treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) or targeted therapy) that received mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccination at two institutions in Slovenia. The immunogenicity was assessed by the detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG antibodies in serum; patients were sampled before, 2-3 weeks after the first dose, 2-3 weeks after the second dose, and 3 months after the complete primary course of vaccination. The results were also compared to controls, sampled at similar time points.Results: Between March and July 2021 112 patients were included in the analysis. The seroconversion rate in patients without prior COVID-19 infection was 96% after the complete primary course of vaccination with 2 doses, compared to 100% for healthy controls. The seroconversion rate after vaccination for patients on chemotherapy, ICI, and targeted therapy was 100%, 91%, and 97%, respectively. All controls and the majority of patients on chemotherapy and targeted therapy, but only 83% for patients on ICI were adequate responders (anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG ≥ 880 ng/ml). Three months after the vaccination, a significant drop in antibody levels was observed in patients receiving ICI compared to controls (P < 0.001). Adverse events were mostly mild and predictable, none of the patients experienced serious adverse events after vaccination.Conclusions: Immunogenicity after mRNA-based vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in cancer patients is only slightly impaired, but influenced by the type of anticancer therapy received. Patients on ICI have the slightest and gradual antibody production. Since antibody levels decline after three months, a third vaccination dose is reasonable to provide adequate protection against severe COVID-19 disease course.The study was approved by the National Ethics Committee (No. 0120-39/2021/6)
Estimating Hourly Full-Coverage PM2.5 Concentrations Based On MODIS Data Over The Northeast of Thailand.
Authors: Kumharn Wilawan , Pilahome Oradee , Ninsawan Wichaya , Jankondee Yuttapichai 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Particulate matter (PM2.5) pollutants are a significant health issue with impacts on human health; however, monitoring of PM2.5 is very limited in developing countries. Satellite remote sensing can expand spatial coverage, potentially enhancing our ability in a specific area for estimating PM2.5; however, some have reported poor predictive performance. An innovative combination of MODIS AOD was developed to fulfill all missing aerosol optical depth (AOD) data obtained from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Therefore, hourly PM2.5 concentrations were obtained in Northeastern Thailand. A Linear mixed-effects (LME) model was used to predict location-specific hourly PM2.5 levels. Hourly PM2.5 concentrations measured at 20 PM2.5 monitoring sites and 10- fold cross-validation were addressed for model validation. The observed and predicted concentrations suggested that LME obtained from MODIS AOD data and other factors are a potentially useful predictor of hourly PM2.5 concentrations (R2 >0.70), providing more detailed spatial information for local scales studies. Interestingly, PM2.5 along the Mekong River area was observed higher than in the plain area. The finding can infer that the monsoon wind brings polluted air into the province from sources outside the region. The results will be helpful to analyze air pollution-related health studies.
Design of Low Power Architecture for Approximate Parallel Mid-Point Filter
Authors: Thiagarajan Nelson Kingsley Joel Peter , N Vijeyakumar K , S Saravanakumar 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Approximate computing is a modern techniques for design of low power efficient arithmetic circuits for portable error resilient applications. In this work, we have proposed a Adaptive Parallel Mid-Point Filter (APMPF) architecture using proposed imprecise Max-Min Estimator (MME)targeting digital image processing. Parallel architecture for the MME can trade-off hardware at the expense of accuracy are proposed and used in the proposed APMPF. In APMPF, we use three level of sorting to estimate the mid-point of 3 x 3 window. Switching based trimmed filter is proposed for precise estimation of the selected window. Experimental Results interms of Area, Power and Delay with 90nm ASIC technology exposed that to the least, Proposed filters demonstrate 7% and 9% Area Delay Product (ADP) and Power Delay Product (PDP) reductions, respectively, compared to precise filter design.
Impact of an Ambulatory Monitoring System on Deterioration Detection and Clinical Outcomes in Hospitalised Patients. A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial Protocol.
Authors: Areia Carlos , Vollam Sarah , Roman Cristian , Santos Mauro , Young Louise , Biggs Christopher , Jarman Annika , Gerry Stephen , Tarrassenko Lionel , Watkinson Peter 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
BackgroundDespite the exponential growth of wearable technology, previous research indicates a lack of statistically significant evidence to support the hypothesis that implementation of wearable ambulatory vital sign monitoring systems impact early patient deterioration detection and clinical outcomes. This highlights the need for large, rigorous studies to address this gap. The objective of this feasibility trial is to assess the impact of an ambulatory monitoring system (AMS) on deterioration detection and clinical outcomes in hospitalised patients, compared to standard care. As a secondary objective we will assess the feasibility of conducting a full randomised controlled trial (RCT).MethodsBetween 120 and 240 patients will be recruited and randomised equally to either an AMS or standard care group. Wearable devices will include a pulse oximeter (monitoring pulse rate and oxygen saturation), a chest patch (monitoring heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature) and a wireless blood pressure cuff (monitoring systolic and diastolic blood pressure). Both groups will wear the devices during their ward length of stay, however only data and alerts from the AMS group will be visible to clinical staff.DiscussionRecruitment of participants is expected to start in January 2022, with an anticipated completion date of December 2022. This feasibility RCT will test the early impact of our AMS implementation in a non-intensive care ward and provide data to support the design and deployment of a full RCT which will provide much-needed evidence of the impact of AMS on early deterioration detection and clinical outcomes.
Analysis of cerebral glucose metabolism following experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage: an [18F]FDG-PET study over 7 days using an MRI-template based analysis tool
Authors: Schadt Fabian , Israel Ina , Beez Alexandra , Alushi Kastriot , Weiland Judith , Ernestus Ralf-Ingo , Westermaier Thomas , Samnick Samuel , Lilla Nadine 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Little is known about changes in brain metabolism following SAH, possibly leading towards secondary brain damage. Despite sustained progress in the last decade, analysis of in vivo acquired data still remains challenging. The present interdisciplinary study uses a semi-automated data analysis tool analyzing imaging data independently from the administrated radiotracer. The uptake of 2-[18F]Fluoro-2-deoxy-glucose ([18F]FDG) was evaluated in different brain regions in 14 male Sprague-Dawley rats, randomized into two groups: (1) SAH induced by the endovascular filament model and (2) sham operated controls. Serial [18F]FDG-PET measurements were performed. Quantitative image analysis was performed by uptake ratio using a self-developed MRI-template based data analysis tool. SAH animals showed significantly higher [18F]FDG accumulation in gray matter, neocortex and olfactory system as compared to animals of the sham group, while white matter and basal forebrain region showed significant reduced tracer accumulation in SAH animals. All significant metabolic changes were visualized from 3 hours, over 24 hours, day 4 and day 7 following SAH/sham operation. This [18F]FDG-PET study provides important insights into glucose metabolism alterations following SAH - for the first time in different brain regions and up to day 7 during course of disease. The present tool improves PET image quantification and provides more flexible data analysis advocating its clinical application.