bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced UV Direct Photolysis And UV/H2O2 For Oxidation of Triclosan And Ibuprofen In Synthetic Effluent: An Experimental Study
Authors: Luz Vilson Conrado da , Bazoti Suzana Fatima , Behling Laura , Rosa Clarissa Dalla , Pasquali Gean Delise Leal
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of an advanced oxidation system based on UV radiation and UV/H2O2 for degradation of TCS and IBU in synthetic effluent. The assays occurred in a 2L reactor, protected from external light and equipped with a UV lamp (λ = 254nm). The effect of contaminant concentration, fractions of chemical species present, and mineralization were evaluated. In the UV/ H2O2 system, different concentrations of H2O2 were studied for oxidation of the contaminants. The kinetic experiments took place between 75 - 270 min of UV irradiation. The results showed > 99% oxidation of TCS in the direct photolysis system at pH 9.4 after 12 min. The degradation of IBU in the UV/H2O2 system, when 10mg L-1 of H2O2 was used, obtained 97.39% oxidation. We obtained k' values of 0.189 min-1 for TCS when its highest oxidation occurred, and k' values of 0.0219 min-1 for IBU. The system was not able to completely mineralize the contaminants, presenting high values of TOC and COD after treatment, thus suggesting the occurrence of phototransformation.
WITHDRAWN: Is Exposure to PM2.5 and PM10, a Factor of Surge of 2nd Wave of COVID-19- A Case Study of Delhi, India?
Authors: Shukla Avnish , Mishra Anirudh , Tandel Bhaven Nirmalbhai Tandel
Published: September 2021

Exposure to air pollutants cause severe health issues. Restriction onmajor activities induced by government improves the air quality during the lockdown due to Covid-19 pandemic. Investigation of correlation of high level of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus2 and its mortality rate with ground level particulate matter concentration was carried out in this study during the second wave of covid-19 in the megacity Delhi, India. Daily average concentration of major two fractions of particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10 were analyzed for the period of 22 March 2021 to 15 May 2021 that grouped into two categories before lockdown and during lockdown. Results revealed that overall reduction of 1.6% in PM2.5 concentration and 15% in PM10 concentration was observed on imposing the lockdown and significant reduction in Particulate Matter concentration was observed for most of the locations for the lockdown period as compared to before lockdown period. Furthermore daily new Covid-19 cases and its death rate was found negatively associated (very weak correlation) with the ground level concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 i.e. before lockdown period while positive association (moderately correlated) was noticed among the daily new Covid-19 cases, its death rate, ground level concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 in time period of lockdown. This Study revealed that the high degree of atmospheric contamination in Northern India can be deemed an external co-factor in the area's high mortality and high positivity rate during the second wave Covid19 pandemic.
The Best and the Worst: TEFL Experts' Opinions of the Most and the Least Important Predictors of Situational Willingness to Communicate
Authors: Rafiee Marzieh , Naghneh Salman Abbasian
Published: September 2021

The current study aimed to identify the most and the least important situational properties of second language willingness to communicate (L2WTC) in an EFL context. After reviewing the related literature, 24 influencing factors were identified and then they were prioritized. Ninety TEFL experts participated in the study to answer the research questionnaire. A quantitative research approach applying paired comparison questionnaire was employed. Data analysis was done using Excel spreadsheet for sorting data and calculating the mean and WinQSB software for solving linear programming model. The results showed that, among the selected variables, "the size of the group", "familiarity with topics under discussion", and "interlocutors and familiarity with them" were determined to be the first most important situational variables which highly influence L2WTC. The findings also showed that "attitudes toward the learning situation", "course evaluation criteria" and "alignment with the classroom norms" were the least important factors influencing L2WTC. The significance of the study lies in its theoretical contributions and pedagogical implications it has for the field of second language teaching and learning.
An Observer Tool for to Enhance Learning of Anesthesia Resident’s Non-Technical Skills During High-Fidelity Simulation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Blanié Antonia , Arcile Gauthier-Charles , Roulleau Philippe , Benhamou Dan
Published: September 2021

Background: An observer tool (OT) dedicated to technical skills could improve learning of medical knowledge during simulation. However, it remains uncertain whether non-technical skills learning outcomes might be improved by using an OT.Methods: After consent, anesthesia residents enrolled to a crisis management training simulation were randomized to use an observer tool (OT +) (based on non-technical skills) or not (OT-) when not role-playing. The main outcome parameter was non-technical skills learning outcomes assessed by the global score of non-technical skills learning after the training (self-assessment using the 15 items of 4 categories of the Anaesthetists’ Non-Technical Skills (ANTS); 0 to 10 Likert scale; /40). The perceived stress level, satisfaction and the score of medical knowledge were also assessed. Results: All anesthesia residents were randomized (n = 48; OT+ group, n = 37; OT- group). At the end of the session, the global score of ANTS learning and the medical knowledge score were similar in the two groups: 31 ± 4 (OT+) and 31 ± 5 / 40 (OT-) (p = 0.55) and 12 ± 2 (OT+) and 12 ± 2 / 20 (OT-) (p=0.47). The 2 groups had a positive and similar perception of learning stress management, improvement of crisis skills management, satisfaction and changes in professional practice after the training session.Conclusions: This study has shown a positive perception of ANTS learning after crisis training without difference between using or not an OT in anesthesia residents. More studies are necessary to define the place of this educational tool. Trial registration: researchregistry.com. Registration number: researchregistry7055. Retrospectively registered August 13, 2021.
The “Seili-index” For The Prediction of Chlorophyll-α Levels In The Archipelago Sea of The Northern Baltic Sea, Southwest Finland
Authors: Hänninen Jari , Mäkinen Katja , Nordhausen Klaus , Laaksonlaita Jussi , Loisa Olli , Virta Joni
Published: September 2021

To build a forecasting tool for the state of eutrophication in the Archipelago Sea, we fitted a Generalized Additive Mixed Model (GAMM) to marine environmental monitoring data, which were collected over the years 2011-2019 by an automated profiling buoy at the Seili ODAS-station. The resulting “Seili-index” can be used to predict the chlorophyll-α (chl-a) concentration in the seawater a number of days ahead by using the temperature forecast as a covariate. An array of test predictions with two separate models on the 2019 data set showed that the index is adept at predicting the amount of chl-a especially in the upper water layer. The visualization with 10 days of chl-a level predictions are presented online at https://saaristomeri.utu.fi/seili-index/. We also applied GAMMs to predict abrupt blooms of cyanobacteria on the basis of temperature and wind conditions and found the model to be feasible for short-term predictions. The use of automated monitoring data and the presented GAMM model in assessing the effects of natural resource management and pollution risks is discussed.
Tillage, Green Manure And Residue Retention Improve Aggregate-Associated Phosphorus Fractions Under Rice-Wheat Cropping
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Kaur Sukhjinder , Choudhary Om Parkash
Published: September 2021

The sustainability of rice-wheat system (RWS) in north-western India is threatened due to the deterioration of soil health and emergence of new challenges of climate change caused by low nutrient use efficiency and large scale burning of crop residues. Phosphorus and phosphatase activities in the soil aggregates affected by different residue management practices remain poorly understood. Thus, soil samples were obtained after a five year field experiment to identify the effect of tillage, green manure and residue management on aggregate-associated phosphorus fractions. In rice, the main plot treatments were combinations of wheat straw and Sesbania green manure (GM) management: (1) puddled transplanted rice (PTR) with no wheat straw (PTRW0), (2) PTR with 25% wheat stubbles (12-15 cm long) retained (PTRW25), (3) PTR without wheat straw and GM (PTRW0+GM), and (4) PTR with wheat stubbles (25%) and GM (PTRW25+GM). Three sub-plots treatments in the successive wheat crop were (1) conventional tillage with rice straw removed (CTWR0), (2) zero tillage (ZT) with rice straw removed (ZTWR0) and (3) ZT with 100% rice straw retained as surface mulch (ZTWR100). Results of the present study revealed that all phosphorus fractions were significantly higher in PTRW25+GM followed by ZTWR100 compared with PTRW0/CTWR0 treatment within both macro- and micro-aggregates. The total phosphorus (P), available P, alkaline phosphatase and phytin-P were significantly higher under ZTWR100 than CTWR0. Principal component analysis identified NaOH-Po, NaHCO3-Pi and HCl-P as the dominant and reliable indicators for evaluating P transformation within aggregates under conservation agriculture based practices.
Protective Effect of Calcium Dobesilate Administration Against Hepatorenal Damage Induced By CCL4 In Male Mice
Authors: Hakimizadeh Elham , Kaeidi Ayat , Rahmani Mohammadreza , Allahtavakoli Mohammad , Hassanshahi Jalal
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Calcium dobesilate (CaD) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, the protective effects of CaD against hepatorenal damage induced by CCL4 in male mice were evaluated. Methods: Thirty male mice randomly were divided into five groups: Control, CaD 100 mg/kg, CCL4, CCL4+CaD 50 mg/kg, and CCL4+CaD 100 mg/kg. Drugs were administered orally once a day for 4-weeks. The liver and kidney indices (serum creatinine, blood urine nitrogen, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels) were determined. Also, hepatic and renal tissue oxidant/antioxidant markers (glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase) were measured. Cleaved caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2 protein levels were measured by immunoblotting method. The liver and kidney histopathological changes were evaluated by H&E staining.Results: CCL4 induces significant oxidative stress in the kidney and liver that was concomitant with functional and histopathological abnormalities in these organs in the CCL4 group versus the control (P<0.05). CaD could significantly improve the histopathological change in the liver and kidney tissues of CCL4+CaD 100 mg/kg mice versus the CCL4 group (P<0.05). In addition, CaD attenuated apoptosis in the liver and kidney tissues (P<0.05).Conclusion: The protective effect of CaD may be related to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Clinical Outcomes of Nicorandil Administration In Patients With Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Geng Ning , Ren Li , Xu Lisheng , Zou Deling , Pang Wenyue
Published: September 2021

Background: Primary percutaneous coronary intervention is the treatment of choice in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and no-reflow phenomenon is still an unsolved problem.Methods: We searched PubMed, EmBase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for relevant randomized controlled trials. The primary endpoint was the incidence of major adverse cardiac events and the secondary endpoint was the incidences of no-reflow phenomenon and complete resolution of ST-segment elevation. Results: Eighteen randomized controlled trials were enrolled. Nicorandil significantly reduced the incidence of no-reflow phenomenon (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.59; P＜0.001; I2=0%) and major adverse cardiac events (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.64; P＜0.001; I2=52%). For every single outcome of major adverse cardiac events, only heart failure and ventricular arrhythmia were significantly improved with no heterogeneity (OR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.23 to 0.57, P＜0.001; OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.31 to 0.60, P＜0.001 respectively). A combination of intracoronary and intravenous nicorandil administration significantly reduced the incidence of major adverse cardiac events with no heterogeneity (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.43, p＜0.001), while a single intravenous administration could not (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.40 to 1.06, p=0.09; I2=52%). Conclusions: Nicorandil can significantly improve no-reflow phenomenon and major adverse cardiac events in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. The beneficial effects on major adverse cardiac events might be driven by the improvements of heart failure and ventricular arrhythmia. A combination of intracoronary and intravenous administration might be an optimal usage of nicorandil.
The Role of Endogenous Carbon Monoxide (CO) on Functioning of Biological Clock in Pig and Wild Boar Hybrid During Long and Short Day Season
Authors: GILUN Przemysław , Wąsowska Barbara , Sowa-Kućma Magdalena , Kozioł Katarzyna , Romerowicz-Misielak Maria , Koziorowski Marek , Koziorowska-Gilun Magdalena
Published: September 2021

Bacground: The master biological clock (pacemaker) is located in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) of the preoptic part of the hypothalamus (POA) and makes organisms adjust to the rhythms, both annual and circadian. Intrinsic pacemaker function is based on the 24-hour oscillator of the transcription factor genes Bmal1/Clock or its paralog Npas2 in which an E-box-bound heterodimeric transcription factor drives the expression of Per 1-2, Cry 1-2 and Rev-erb α-β (NR1D1 and NR1D2) genes. The main factor that influences the functioning of this clock rhythm is the light signal reaching the SCN from the retina via the neural pathway, the so-called non-forming image signal. On the other hand, endogenous carbon monoxide (CO) whose formation and availability depends on the amount of light is a chemical signal delivered through the humoral pathway independently of the neural signal. The aim of this experiment was to demonstrate that chemical light carrier CO, regulates the expression of biological clock genes via humoral pathways. Mature males of a wild boar-pig crossbreed, during long and short day season, were used for the study. Autologous blood with experimentally elevated concentrations of endogenous CO (using lamps with white light-emitting diodes) was infused into ophthalmic venous sinus via the right dorsal nasal vein.Results: The results showed that elevated endogenous CO levels through blood irradiation induces changes in genes expressioninvolved in functioning of the major biological clock. Changes in the expression of the transcription factors Bmal1, Clock and Npas2 have a similar pattern in both structures where a very large decrease in gene expression was shown after exposure to elevated endogenous CO levels. The changes in the gene expression of Per 1-2, Cry 1-2, and Rev-erb α-β and Ror β are not the same for both POA and DH structures indicating that both structures respond differently to the received humoral signal.Conclusion: Obtained results indicate that CO is a chemical light molecule whose production in organism depends on the amount of light. An adequate amount of light is an essential factor for the proper functioning of the internal biological clock which is a regulator of many important physiological processes.
Geospatial characterization of immune cell distributions and dynamics across the microenvironment in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Chakiryan Nicholas , Kim Youngchul , Berglund Anders , Kimmel Gregory , Chang Andrew , Hajiran Ali , Nguyen Jonathan , Moran Carlos , Saeed-Vafa Daryoush , Katende Esther , Lopez-Blanco Neale , Chahoud Jad , Rappold Phillip , Spiess Phillip , Fournier Michelle , Jeong Daniel , Wang Liang , Du Dongliang , Teer Jamie , Dhillon Jasreman , Hakimi Ari , Altrock Phillip , Mule James , Manley Brandon
Published: September 2021

We performed multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) using an array of myeloid and lymphoid markers on primary tumor samples from 122 patients with RCC. Regions of interest (ROIs) were selected from three distinct tumor zones: the tumor-core, stroma, and tumor-stroma interface. Digital pathologic imaging analysis was leveraged to quantify the geospatial location and distribution of immune cells within the TIME, and these findings were correlated with a variety of tumor molecular profiles. For patients with ccRCC, as clinical stage increased, immunosuppressive M2-like CD163+ TAMs migrated from the tumor compartment and into the stroma at the tumor-stroma interface and became increasingly co-localized with CD8+ T-cells. Furthermore, high CD163+ TAM clustering into the stromal compartment and high CD8+/CD163+ stromal co-localization were independently associated with worse OS and cancer-specific survival (CSS), while accounting for clinical stage. Overall, this data suggests that the pro-tumor effect of M2-like TAMs and their effect on CD8+ T-cells may be dependent on their specific geospatial location and distribution within the TIME -- namely, that M2-like TAMs exert their pro-tumor effect and interact with CD8+ T-cells most effectively from the stromal compartment at the tumor-stroma interface.
Unit Price of Manufacturing Exports that Process Natural Resources From Latin America.
Authors: Fujii-Gambero Gerardo , Morales-López Rodrigo
Published: September 2021

Lead-inWe explore the potential domestic income increase in Latin American exports following unit prices of exported products by processing stage.In various developed countries, manufacturing began through the internal processing of locally available natural resources. Currently, high-income countries participate in world trade by exporting these types of products. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the level of sophistication of these exports by monitoring the unit price of exports of the petrochemical chain (Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and Venezuela); copper (Chile and Peru); iron and steel (Brazil and Mexico); and soybean and its derivatives (Argentina and Brazil). We show the potential for elevating domestic income in exports by increasing manufacturing done within a country before export.JEL classification: F14, L61, L65, L66, L71, O13, Q17
DNA Hypermethylation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor is Associated with High Levels of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in the Cord Serum: A Laizhou Wan Birth Cohort Study From China
Authors: Chen Limei , Zhang Yan , Zhou Yijun , Shi Rong , Tian Ying , Gao Yu
Published: September 2021

Background

Recent studies have suggested that in utero exposure to environmental organic pollutants, such polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and bisphenol A may induce epigenetic alterations, specifically by modifying the patterns of DNA methylation. We investigated the relationship between PBDE exposure and BDNF DNA methylation.
Methods

We measured the levels of eight PBDE congeners in umbilical cord serum samples using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole cord blood samples. The methylation status of the BDNF gene was determined using methylation-specific PCR with primers specific for either methylated or unmethylated alleles. The unconditional logistic regression model was used to investigate the relationship between PBDE levels and BDNF DNA methylation.
Results

The total PBDE congener level (range) in cord serum samples was 23.17 (4.17–2459.46) ng/g lipid. After adjusting for potential confounders, the incidence of BDNF DNA methylation status may increase when cord serum BDE-28, BDE-47, BDE-99 and BDE-100 levels increased (OR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.01, 10.85; OR = 7.89, 95% CI: 1.75, 35.66; OR = 7.34, 95% CI: 1.79, 30.09; OR = 3.96, 95% CI: 1.15, 13.68; respectively).
Conclusions

We found that the levels of BDE-28, -47, -99, and − 100 were positively associated with BDNF DNA hypermethylation. Changes in cord blood BDNF DNA methylation may be a part of the biological pathway underlying in utero PBDE exposure and adverse foetal growth.
Potentially Toxic Elements in Invasive Fish Species Prussian Carp (Carassius Gibelio) from Different Freshwater Ecosystems and Human Exposure Assessment
Authors: Milošković Aleksandra , Piperac Milica Stojković , Kojadinović Nataša , Radenković Milena , Đuretanović Simona , Čerba Dubravka , Milošević Đurađ , Simić Vladica
Published: September 2021

Concentrations of Al, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, Sn, and Zn were detected in the muscle and gills of Prussian carp from three different freshwater ecosystems: isolated ponds and the South Morava River in Serbia, and Kopačko Lake in complex wetland ecosystem of the Kopački Rit Nature Reserve in Croatia. The main goals of the paper were to assess the concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the muscle and gills of Prussian carp (Carassius gibelio), to examine whether abiotic factors from three different freshwater ecosystems affect the accumulation of PTEs in fish tissues and to estimate the human health risk resulting from fish consumption. There were only six concentrations of PTEs in the gill tissue (Cr, Hg, Mn, Pb, Sn, and Zn) that were not significantly different among the different freshwater ecosystems. In the muscles, the differences were much less visible. Kopačko Lake distinguished with the highest values of metal pollution index (MPI) for muscles (0.24) and isolated ponds with the highest values of MPI for gills (0.8). The redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that concentrations of Al, Mn, Zn, Cu, and Fe in the gill tissue were significantly correlated with the environmental variables. In contrast, the RDA based on element concentrations in the fish muscles indicated no significant relationship with the environment. Isolated ponds, with no inflow of freshwater, stand out as the most polluted, followed by Kopačko Lake with occasional floods. Flowing freshwater ecosystem South Morava River can be single out as at least polluted with PTEs. The target hazard quotients (THQ) and hazard index (HI) suggested there were no significant noncarcinogenic health risks. The target carcinogenic risk factor (TR) for As and Pb confirmed there were no cancer risks related to human fish consumption. Since the elevated concentrations of toxic Cd and As in Prussian carp were estimated, an early warning should be assumed, especially for fishing activities in these areas.
Shedding Light on the Optical and Nonlinear Optical Properties of Super-Alkali Doped Borophene
Authors: Hussnain Muhammad , Shehzad Rao Aqil , Muhammad Shabbir , iqbal javed , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Alarfaji Saleh S. , Ayub Khurshid , Yaseen Muhammad
Published: September 2021

The present investigation highlights the 2-dimentional design of several interesting super alkali doped borophene derivatives for efficient nonlinear optical (NLO). Borophene (B36) and super alkali units (Li3O) whose combining effects and resulting NLO responses have been evaluated by orienting super-alkali clusters at various sites such as a hub, rim, and bridged around the B36 molecule. The charge analysis is characterized by frontier and natural bond orbital analysis, narrowed HOMO-LUMO band gap, better intramolecular charge transfers. Molecular electrostatic potential surfaces demonstrate enhanced optoelectronic features of these complexes that are viable owing to Li3O adsorption. Singly doped and doubly doped complexes have been considered and their NLO properties have been calculated. Band gap energy reduces about three times when doped with two Li3O. A considerably high figure of merit, first hyperpolarizability (bo) values up to five digits 10611 a. u. for complex A proved that these systems can be utilized as promising candidates in various NLO applications.
Decreasing Richness And Biomass During A Flood Pulse Observed In A Southeastern US Coastal Floodplain Following A Multi-Year, Supra-Seasonal Drought
Authors: Johnson Erica L. , Abernethy Erin F. , Colón-Gaud J. Checo
Published: September 2021

Floodplains of the southeastern United States exhibit high biological productivity, maintained by periodic floodplain inundation as a result of seasonal flooding. To examine the relationship between biological productivity and seasonal flooding following periods of drought, we quantified aquatic macroinvertebrate communities monthly in an inundated floodplain during the annual flood pulse (December-April) in two years, one following a multi-year drought and one following a larger than average flooding event. We predicted that floodplain communities would differ in richness, biomass, and community composition between years and that differences would be driven by discharge at the main stem and organic matter availability. We collected macroinvertebrates from the floodplain of the Altamaha River, an unimpounded 6th order river in the Coastal Plain region of the southeastern US that experiences floodplain connectivity. With invertebrates identified to genus, we elucidated richness, abundance, biomass, community composition, and functional feeding group. Richness was generally higher in the drought year but decreased throughout the flood pulse, while during the flood year richness was lower and increased. Biomass decreased throughout the flood pulse following the drought year and increased during the flood year. There was a high degree of overlap in invertebrate community composition based on abundance data during both years of the study with collector gatherers being the most highly abundant functional feeding group. As climate change impacts (i.e., severe droughts) become more common, it is critical to investigate how aquatic communities are responding to increasingly unpredictable flow conditions in unimpounded and seemingly unaltered rivers.
NOTCH Target Gene HES5 Distinct Anti-Tumorigenic Roles in Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: Farmad Mahnaz Ghorbani , Chamanian Sogand , Alimardani Maliheh , Abbaszadegan Mohammad Reza , Forghanifard Mohammad Mahdi
Published: September 2021

I. Background:Gastric cancer (GC) is ranked the third greatest cause of mortality globally and the second common cancer in Iran. To date, many pathways including HES family have been found to be linked to cellular proliferation, differentiation and cancer. HES5, a transcription factor that binds to DNA, is known as a downstream protein in Notch pathway. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between HES5 expression and GC.II. Methods and Results:In this study,75 gastric cancer patients were included. After RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, the expression rate of HES5 was evaluated by quantitative Real-time PCR. Also, presence of H. Pylori infection was verified using specific primers set for H. pylori, and PCR on extracted DNA. The results showed a remarkable decrease in HES level in malignant tissues when compared to the neighboring non-cancerous tissues (Normal) (P< 0.0001). Moreover, an inverse relation between down regulation of HES 5 gene and H.Pylori infection was identified. In conclusionIII. Conclusions: These findings emphasize that HES5 may notably suppress the tumor development.
A Constellation of Eye-Tracking Measures Reveals Social Attention Differences in ASD and the Broad Autism Phenotype
Authors: Nayar Kritika , Shic Frederick , Winston Molly , Losh Molly
Published: September 2021

Background: Social attention differences, expressed through gaze patterns, have been documented in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with subtle differences also reported among first-degree relatives, suggesting a shared genetic link. Findings have mostly been derived from standard eye-tracking methods (total fixation count or total fixation duration). Given the dynamics of visual attention, these standard methods may obscure subtle, yet core, differences in visual attention mechanisms, particularly those presenting sub-clinically. This study applied a constellation of eye-tracking analyses to gaze data from individuals with ASD and their parents. Methods: This study included n=156 participants across groups, including ASD (n=24) and control (n=32) groups, and parents of individuals with ASD (n=61) and control parents (n=39). A complex scene with social/non-social elements was displayed and gaze tracked via an eye tracker. Eleven analytic methods from the following categories were analyzed: 1) standard variables, 2) temporal dynamics (e.g., gaze over time), 3) fixation patterns (e.g., perseverative or regressive fixations), 4) first fixations, and 5) distribution patterns. MANOVAs, growth curve analyses, and Chi-squared tests were applied to examine group differences. Finally, group differences were examined on factor scores derived from a principal component analysis (PCA) that reduced variables to distinct dimensions.Results: No group differences emerged among standard, first fixation, and distribution pattern variables. Both the ASD and ASD parent groups demonstrated reduced social attention over time and atypical perseverative fixations. Lower social attention factor scores derived from PCA strongly differentiated the ASD and ASD parent groups from controls, with parent findings driven by the subset of parents demonstrating the broad autism phenotype.Limitations: To generalize these findings, larger sample sizes, extended viewing contexts (e.g., dynamic stimuli), and even more eye-tracking analytical methods are needed. Conclusions: Fixations over time and perseverative fixations differentiated ASD and the ASD parent groups from controls, with the PCA most robustly capturing social attention differences. Findings highlight their methodological utility in studies of the (broad) autism spectrum to capture nuanced visual attention differences that may relate to clinical symptoms in ASD, and reflect genetic liability in clinically unaffected relatives. This proof-of-concept study may inform future studies using eye tracking across populations where social attention is impacted.
Does Proximal Hip Geometry Affect Fracture Type in The Elderly Population?
Authors: Sayit Emrah , Guzel Nizametin , Sayit Asli Tanrivermis
Published: September 2021

Background
The aim of this study was to determine the differences in proximal femoral geometric (PFG) parameters between patients with femoral neck fractures(FNFs) and patients with intertrochanteric fractures (ITFs).
Methods
We retrospectively evaluated 114 patients (33 FNFs, 81 ITFs.) who were hospitalized secondary to hip fractures. Patients were divided into two groups: patients with FNFs and patients with ITFs. The PFG parameters (the neck shaft angle, center-edge angle, femoral head diameter, femoral neck diameter, neck/head ratio, femoral neck axial length, femoral shaft diameter, hip axial length, and neck/hip length ratio) were measured on the hip joint radiographs.
Results
There were no statistically significant differences in age and gender between the FNF and ITF groups. In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in the PFG parameters between the FNF and ITF groups except in the neck/hip length ratio (NHLR) (0.86 ± 0.03 vs 0.84 ± 0.03, p = 0.05). When a 3-way multivariate analysis was performed according to gender, fracture type, and fracture site, the femoral head diameter, femoral neck diameter, femoral neck axial length, femoral shaft diameter, hip axial length, and NHLR were found to be greater in females than in males, and a statistically significant relationship was found between gender and these variables.
Conclusion
Only the NHLR was significantly higher in the ITF group, so this study revealed that a higher NHLR, which is the presence of a longer hip axis combined with a shorter neck axis, is a risk factor for ITF after a minor trauma.
Socioeconomic Factors Associated with Suicidal Behaviors in South Korea: A Systematic Review On The Current State of Evidence
Authors: Raschke Nicolas , Mohsenpour Amir , Aschentrup Leona , Fischer Florian , Wrona Kamil J.
Published: September 2021

Background
The economic and human costs of suicide to individuals, families, communities, and society make suicide a major public health problem around the world. Suicide rates in South Korea are among the highest in the world. This paper is the first systematic review investigating socioeconomic risk factors for suicidal behaviors (suicidal ideation, attempted suicides, and completed suicides) in South Korea.
Methods
We performed a systematic review in Medline and Web of Science. Empirical studies and peer-reviewed articles on the association between individual socioeconomic factors and suicidal behaviors have been included. A total of 53 studies were included in a descriptive synthesis.
Results
Overall, 35 studies focused on the association between individual socioeconomic factors and suicidal ideation, 16 were related to suicide attempts, while 10 addressed completed suicides. Low income, unemployment, and financial difficulties were identified as risk factors for all suicidal behaviors. Working in precarious conditions, long working hours, self-employment, changes in employment status, shift work/night-time work, and occupational stress were associated with an increased risk for suicidal ideation. Low educational attainment appears to increase the risk for suicide attempts and completed suicide, but the significance of educational attainment on the reporting of suicidal ideation could not be verified. The primary studies were unable to ascertain whether the place of residence impacts on suicidal behaviors.
Conclusions
The results highlight the relevance of socioeconomic factors for suicidal behaviors in South Korea. Governmental social spending must be increased and redirected more efficiently so that the economically most vulnerable groups are financially protected and income inequality does not widen. Furthermore, comprehensive prevention strategies at the community level are needed. Future research needs to focus on identifying vulnerable groups for whom the effects of low socioeconomic status may have particularly serious consequences with regard to suicidal behaviors.
Prostate or Prostate Fossa Radiotherapy with or Without Dose-Escalated or Conventionally Dosed Pelvic Nodal Radiotherapy: Quality of Life Outcomes and Dosimetric Analysis
Authors: Jensen Garrett L , Jhavar Sameer , Ha Chul , Hammonds Kendall , Swanson Gregory
Published: September 2021

Background

We measure the impact of pelvic lymph node radiotherapy (PLNRT) of two doses using conventional fractionation on long term quality of life (QOL) in prostate cancer.
Methods

Prostate cancer patients recorded baseline scores using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC), prior to definitive or post-prostatectomy radiotherapy. If ENI was given, it was to 45 or 54 Gy. New scores were recorded 20–36 months after radiotherapy. Absolute change in each domain subscale and summary score was recorded as well as if this change met criteria for minimally important difference (MID), with separate multivariate analysis (MVA) for both measures. Subsequent dosimetric analysis was performed.
Results

Frequency of a MID decline was significantly greater in patients treated with ENI to 54 Gy for urinary function, incontinence, and overall. No urinary decline was correlated with PLNRT to 45 Gy. PLNRT to 54 Gy was significant for decline in urinary function, bother, irritative, incontinence, and overall score in one or both MVA models while 45 Gy was not. Postoperative status was significant for decline in urinary function, incontinence, and overall. Amongst postoperative patients, there was significantly greater decline in urinary function score in the salvage setting. Neither 54 nor 45 Gy significantly affected bowel subscale or overall score decline.
Conclusions

Using conventional fractionation, adding PLNRT to 54 Gy, but not 45 Gy, correlates with worse urinary QOL, with postoperative patients experiencing a steeper decline. PLNRT had no significant impact on bowel QOL with either dose.
Identifying Genes Associated with Abiotic Stress Tolerance Suitable for CRISPR/Cas9 Editing in Upland Rice Cultivars Adapted to Acid Soils
Authors: Barrero Luz Stella , Willmann Matthew , Craft Eric , Manna-Akther Kazi , Harrington Sandra E. , Garzon-Martinez Gina A. , Glahn Raymond , Piñeros Miguel , Mccouch Susan
Published: September 2021

Five genes of large phenotypic effect known to confer abiotic stress tolerance in rice were selected to characterize allelic variation in commercial Colombian tropical japonica upland rice cultivars adapted to drought-prone acid soil environments (cv. Llanura11 and Porvenir12). Allelic variants of the genes ART1, DRO1, SUB1A, PSTOL1, and SPDT were characterized by PCR and/or Sanger sequencing in the two upland cultivars and compared with the Nipponbare and other reference genomes. Two genes were identified as possible targets for genome editing: SUB1A, Submergence 1A, to improve tolerance to flooding, and SPDT (SULTR3;4), SULTR-like Phosphorus Distribution Transporter, to improve phosphorus utilization efficiency and grain quality. Based on technical and regulatory considerations, SPDT was targeted for editing. The two upland cultivars were shown to carry the SPDT wild-type (non-desirable) allele based on sequencing, RNA expression, and phenotypic evaluations under hydroponic and greenhouse conditions. A gene deletion was designed using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and specialized reagents and protocols were developed for SPDT editing, including vectors targeting the gene, protoplast transfection transient assays, and plant regeneration and transformation protocols by Agrobacterium and ribonucleoprotein complexes. The desired edits were confirmed in protoplasts and serve as the basis for ongoing plant transformation experiments aiming to improve the P-use efficiency of upland rice grown in acidic soils.
PVD Coatings Influence (TiCN, BCN and CrAlN) on the Fatigue Life Behavior of AISI 1045 Steel for Automotive Applications
Authors: Correa Juan Francisco , Caicedo Julio César , Aguilar Yesid Castro
Published: September 2021

This current work evaluated the influence of Titanium Carbo-nitride (TiCN), Chromium Aluminum Nitride (CrAlN) and Boron Carbo-nitride (BCN) coatings deposited on AISI 1045 steel and its behavior in fatigue life. Suitable deposition parameters were established for the coatings to show high hardness onto the substrate, appropriate deposition time for polycrystalline growth and desired stoichiometry, as well as a stable layer thickness of ~ 3 µm. The physical and chemical properties of the coatings obtained were established by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) and nanoindentation; the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used for the analysis of the fracture surfaces of the samples subjected to fatigue. The analysis of the fatigue behavior of the uncoated and coated substrates were performed under rotary bending conditions applying maximum alternating stresses in the interval of 55–70% of the ultimate strength value, i.e. from 479 to 610 MPa, respectively; the test was performed at room temperature. The study of the results established that the fatigue resistance properties increased for the three types of coated samples, TiCN, BCN and CrAlN, with values of 9.6%, 4.2% and 3.9%, respectively, calculated for 1x106 cycles. The highest value in fatigue life improvement corresponded to the TiCN coating, followed by BCN. This can be associated to the increase hardness present in the TiCN layer; this improved the mechanical properties of the coating. The examination of the fracture surfaces carried out in the tested samples (coated and uncoated), clearly demonstrate that the cracks produced by fatigue started in the surface of the coating and later propagated to the substrate. The mechanicals and fatigue results found in these ternary coatings deposited on AISI 1045 steel open a possibility of future applications in mechanical devices e.g. automotive applications that require high fatigue demands in service conditions.
Development and Testing of an Instrument to Measure Contextual Factors Influencing Self-Care Decisions Among Adults with Chronic Illness
Authors: Page Shayleigh Dickson , Lee Christopher , Aryal Subhash , Freedland Kenneth , Stromberg Anna , Vellone Ercole , Westland Heleen , Wiebe Douglas J , Jaarsma Tiny , Riegel Barbara
Published: September 2021

Background: Adults with chronic illness frequently experience bothersome symptoms (e.g., pain). Decisions about how to manage these symptoms are complex and influenced by factors related to the patient, their illness, and their environment. The naturalistic decision-making framework describes decision-making when conditions are dynamically evolving, and the decision maker is uncertain because the situation is ambiguous and missing information. The contextual factors influencing decisions include time stress, the perception of high stakes, and input from other individuals, which may facilitate or complicate the decision about the self-care of symptoms. There is no valid instrument to measure these contextual factors. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a self-report instrument measuring the contextual factors that influence self-care decisions about symptoms. Methods: Items were drafted from the literature and refined with patient input. Content validity of the instrument was evaluated using a Delphi survey of expert clinicians and researchers, and cognitive interviews with adults with chronic illness. Psychometric testing included exploratory factor analysis to test dimensionality, item response theory-based approaches for item recalibration, confirmatory factor analysis to generate factor determinacy scores, and evaluation of construct validity. Results: The content validity of the Self-Care Decisions Scale is excellent with all items achieving a content validity index of greater than 0.78 in the Delphi survey of experts (n=12). Adults with chronic illness (n=5) endorsed the relevance, comprehensiveness, and comprehensibility of the instrument during cognitive interviews. Initial psychometric testing (n=431) revealed a 6-factor multidimensional structure that was further refined for precision, and high multidimensional reliability. In construct validity testing, there were modest associations with some scales of the Melbourne Decision Making Questionnaire and the Self-Care of Chronic Illness Inventory. Conclusion: The Self-Care Decisions Scale is a 27-item self-report instrument that measures the extent to which contextual factors influence decisions about symptoms of chronic illness with six scales reflecting naturalistic decision making (external, urgency, uncertainty, cognitive/affective, waiting/cue competition, and concealment). The scale can support research that aims to better understand how adults with chronic illness make decisions in response to symptoms. Additional testing of the instrument is needed to evaluate clinical utility.
Immunogenicity of Personalized Dendritic-cell Therapy in HIV-1 Infected Individuals Under Suppressive Antiretroviral Treatment: Interim Analysis From a Phase II Clinical Trial.
Authors: Batista Marcela Vassão de Almeida , Silva Laís Teodoro , Samer Sadia , Oshiro Telma Miyuki , Shytaj Iart Luca , Giron Leila , Pena Nathalia Mantovani , Cruz Nicolly , Gosuen Gisele Cristina , Ferreira Paulo Roberto Abrão , Neto Edécio Cunha , Galinskas Juliana , Dias Danilo , Sucupira Maria Cecilia Araripe , Almeida-Neto Cesar , Salomão Reinaldo , Duarte Alberto José da Silva , Janini Luís Mário , Hunter James R , Savarino Andrea , Juliano Maria Aparecida , Diaz Ricardo Sobhie
Published: September 2021

BackgroundWe developed a personalized Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Therapy (MDDCT) for HIV-infected individuals on suppressive antiretroviral treatment and evaluated HIV-specific T-cell responses.MethodsPBMCs were obtained from 10 HIV+ individuals enrolled in trial NCT02961829. Monocytes were differentiated into DCs using IFN-α and GM-CSF. After sequencing each patient’s HIV-1 Gag and determining HLA profiles, autologous Gag peptides were selected based on the predicted individual immunogenicity and used to pulse MDDCs. Three doses of the MDDCT were administered every 15 days. To assess immunogenicity, patients’ cells were stimulated in vitro with autologous peptides, and intracellular IL-2, TNF, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) production were measured in CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells. ResultsThe protocol of ex-vivo treatment with IFN-α and GM-CSF was able to induce maturation of MDDCs, as well as to preserve their viability for reinfusion. MDDCT administration was associated with increased expression of IL-2 in CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells at 15 and/or 30 days after the first MDDCT administration. Moreover, intracellular TNF and IFN-γ expression was significantly increased in CD4+ T-cells. The number of candidates that increased in vitro the cytokine levels in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells upon stimulation with Gag peptides from baseline to days 15 and from baseline to days 30 and days 120 after MDDCT was significant as compared to Gag unstimulated response. This was accompanied by an increasing trend in the frequency of polyfunctional T-cells over time, which was visible when considering both cells expressing two and three out of the three cytokines examined. ConclusionsMDDC has a mature profile, and this MDDCT promoted in-vitro T-cell immune responses in HIV-infected patients undergoing long-term suppressive antiretroviral treatment.NCT02961829: (Multi Interventional Study Exploring HIV-1 Residual Replication: a Step Towards HIV-1 Eradication and Sterilizing Cure, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02961829, posted November 11th, 2016).
A Scoping Review Examining the Integration of Exercise Services in Clinical Oncology Settings
Authors: Ezenwankwo Elochukwu F. , Nnate Daniel A. , Usoro Godspower D. , Onyeso Chimdimma P. , Anieto Ijeoma B. , Ibeneme Sam C. , Albertus Yumna , Lambert Victoria E , Ezeukwu Antoninus O. , Abaraogu Ukachukwu O. , Shamley Delva
Published: September 2021

Background: Addressing questions surrounding the feasibility of embedding exercise service units in clinical oncology settings is imperative for developing a sustainable exercise-oncology clinical pathway. We examined available literature and provided practical recommendations to inform evidence-based practice, policymaking, and further investigations. Methods: Studies that recruited cancer patients, assessed the co-location of exercise services and cancer treatment units and reported findings on service implementation were included. Evidence from six studies providing data from over 30 programs was integrated using narrative synthesis. Results: Exercise service implementation was relatively modest across the included studies. These services were delivered by physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, and kinesiologists and funded mainly through grants and private donations, with staff salaries accruing as the major expense. Service penetration, adoption, and acceptability were generally low. However, studies recorded high clinician/patient satisfaction. Major barriers to service integration were limited funding, lack of detailed implementation plan, and low organizational buy-in. Common reasons for non-utilization, missed sessions, and dropouts were lack of interest, unwellness, hospital readmission, disease progression, and adverse skeletal events. Conclusion: Implementing exercise services in clinical oncology settings seems an effective approach for increasing access to exercise medicine for individuals on cancer treatment. While this model appears feasible for patients/clinicians, calculated efforts are required to drive uptake. There is no one-size-fits-all approach; hence, sustainable service integration remains a product of many factors, including structures and strategies that reflect the organizational dynamics of the clinical service environment housing the exercise unit.