bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Treatment With Prednisone and Bromocriptine Does Not Influence the Pregnancy Outcome in Fresh Embryo Transfer Cycles: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Tao , Mu Xin , Qin Chun-rong , Xia Yan
Published: December 2020

Background: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a severe complication for infertile patients undergoing assisted reproduction technology (ART) treatment. Bromocriptine and prednisone are often used for treating OHSS. This study aimed to evaluate whether combined treatment with prednisone and bromocriptine can reduce the risk of OHSS and influence pregnancy outcomes in fresh embryo transfer cycles.Methods: This retrospective study recruited infertile patients undergoing assisted reproduction techniques. We included 4,114 cycles of infertile patients who underwent IVF or ICSI treatment between January 2014 and May 2017 and divided them into two groups: the combined-treatment group and the single-treatment group.Results: The OHSS cancellation rates in the combined- and single-treatment (control) groups were 31.50% and 40.88%, respectively. There was a significant reduction in the OHSS cancellation rate between the combined- and single-treatment groups (P<0.001). Single- and double-embryo transfers were completed in 350 and 495 cycles, respectively, in the combined-treatment group and in 227 and 517 cycles, respectively, in the single-treatment group (P<0.001). The total number of successful embryo implantation was significantly different between the combined-treatment group (509 cycles, 40.88%) and single-treatment groups (442 cycles, 38.30%) (P=0.012). There was no statistically significant difference in the clinical pregnancy (P=0.492), miscarriage (P=0.792), ongoing pregnancy (P=0.719), live birth (P=0.295), congenital abnormality (P=0.081), and ectopic pregnancy occurrence rates (P=0.649) between the combined- and single-treatment groups.Conclusion: Compared with bromocriptine alone, combined treatment with bromocriptine and prednisone can better reduce the OHSS occurrence rate and does not affect the pregnancy outcomes in fresh embryo transfer cycles.
Clinical Features and Management of Oral Nonodontogenic Masses in Children
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhou Qiongqiong , Shen Weimin
Published: December 2020

Background: There are numerous clinical reports of oral tumors in children. However, the clinical features and management of oral nonodontogenic masses in children were rare reported. The aim of this article is to present a large series of oral nonodontogenic masses in children, analyzing the clinical characteristics of such masses and reviewing the relevant procedures for treatment.Methods: We conducted an observational retrospective study, reviewing medical records of 171 patients who were treated for oral nonodontogenic masses between 2014 and 2019 at the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. Data collected included age, gender, site, pathologic diagnosis and treatment strategy.Results: All patients were hospitalized in our department. Of the 171 cases, all of them were benign, however, only 1 case diagnosed as inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor showed a malignant process. The most frequent type was hemangioma (63.7%), followed by lymphangioma (16.4%), ranula (7.6%). The most common location of oral masses in the buccal mucosa. The second common location was in tongue. 16 cases of hemangioma were located in two or more sites in cavity. And 29 patients (26.6%) of hemangioma and 11 patients (39.3%) lymphangioma of were found other extraoral lesions. With regard to some cases of hemangioma, the other patients commonly undergone surgical resections or sclerotherapy. The follow-up period ranged from 1 to 5 years. The recurrence rate of hemangioma and lymphangioma were 8.3%, 17.9%, respectively.Conclusion: Most of oral nonodontogenic masses are benign, few oral masses are malignant or mimic a malignant process. Surgical resections are the most common treatment with excellent success.
The Role of Dislocation-solute Interactions on the Creep Behaviour of Binary Mg-RE Alloys
Authors: Li Jing , Wu Jialin , Jin Li , Celikin Mert , Wang Fenghua , Dong Shuai , Dong Jie
Published: December 2020

The effect of dislocation-RE atoms interactions on the creep behaviour has been studied via creep testing and HAADF-STEM analysis of two extruded alloys; Mg-0.5Ce and Mg-2Gd (wt.%). Almost no Ce atoms are detected in the Mg matrix due to the low solid solubility in as-extruded condition. However, Gd solute segregations are observed along dislocations and hexagonal dislocation patterns. Such segregations can not only pin the dislocation motion and enhance the creep strengthening via dislocation patterns, but also lead to dynamic precipitation. Thus, combing with the stress exponent values, the transition of creep mechanism between Mg-0.5Ce alloys and Mg-2Gd alloys has been found and dislocation-Gd atoms interactions are determined to be the main factor for superior creep resistance of Mg-2Gd alloys.
Geographic Distribution of Excess Mortality Rate Duo to COVID-19 in Iranian Population: An Ecological Study
Authors: Fesharaki Mohammad Gholami , Molaei Alireza
Published: December 2020

Introduction: COVID-19 has raised world concern since it emerged in Wuhan, China in December 2019. The direct and indirect death rates in the world and in Iran have increased significantly after the occurrence of this pandemic in the world.Objective: In this study EMR estimated by Multilevel Poison Regression then this estimation compared to the historical trends, to obtain total death related to the COVID-19 in addtion the geographic distribution of EMR has been presented for Iran country.Materials and Methods: All-cause mortality count of each province of Iran from March 21, 2013 to June 20, 2020 downloaded from National Organizationfor Civil Registration (NOCR). The data from spring of 2020 (March 20, 2020 to June 20, 2020) remove from data and then the multilevel poison model has been used to estimate all-cause mortality in spring 2020 then excess mortality attributable to COVID-19 (the difference between the numberof registered and expected deaths) has been calculated.Results: The results of this study showed that Iran’s EMR in spring 2020 was 23% (Male=25%, Female=21%). More result also showed that four category low (EMR≤5%, n=3), moderate (5 %< EMR<20%, n=10), high (20 %< EMR<40%, n=16) and very high (40≤EMR, n=2) EMR.Conclusion: Due to the diverse EMR in different provinces of Iran, the type of management of provinces with low and moderate EMR can be used as a suitable model to control EMR in provinces with high and very high EMR.
Lineage-level Divergence of Copepod Glycerol Transporters and the Emergence of Isoform-specific Trafficking Regulation
Authors: Catalán-García Marc , Chauvigne Francois , Stavang Jon Anders , Nilsen Frank , Cerda Joan , Finn Roderick
Published: December 2020

Transmembrane conductance of glycerol is typically facilitated by aquaglyceroporins (Glps), which are commonly encoded by multiple genes in metazoan organisms. To date, however, little is known concerning the evolution of Glps in Crustacea or what forces might underly such gene redundancy. Here we show that Glp evolution in Crustacea is highly divergent, ranging from single copy genes in species of tadpole shrimps, isopods, amphipods and decapods to up to 10 copies in diplostracan water fleas although with monophyletic origins in each lineage. By contrast Glp evolution in Copepoda appears to be polyphyletic, with high rates of gene duplication occurring in a genera- and species-specifc manner. Based upon functional experiments on the Glps from a parasitic copepod (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), we show that such lineage-level gene duplication and splice variation is coupled with a high rate of neofunctionalization. For L. salmonis, splice variation of a given gene resulted in tissue- or sex-specific expression of the channels, with each variant evolving unique sites for PKC or PKA regulation of intracellular membrane trafficking. The data thus reveal that mutations favouring a high fidelity control of intracellular trafficking regulation can be a selection force for the evolution and retention of multiple Glps in copepods.
Chemical Composition and Repellency Effect of Ferulago Angulate Plant Against Malaria Vector, Anopheles Stephensi
Authors: Pirmohammadi Masoumeh , Shayeghi Mansoureh , Abai Mohammad Reza , Vatandoost Hassan , Rahimi Sara , Barghamadi Zeynab
Published: December 2020

BackgroundMalaria is a health problem globally. There are several vector control measures. Using repellent to protect human from biting of vectors is one of the best ways. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of plant against biting of malaria vector, An.stephensi under laboratory conditions.MethodsChemical constituents of Ferulago angulate plant were determined by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Efficacy and the protection time of plant were evaluated on Anopheles stephensi . ResultsA total of 40 compounds were identified in plant. Flourensiadiol (17.4%) dehydro-sabina keton (13.3%), β-maaliene (8.8%) was the highest in the plant. The mean assessed protection time and efficacy for plant was 60 and 100 minutes respectively. ED50 and ED90 values for this plant were 18.12 and 93.19 µl /cm2 respectively.ConclusionResults showed that plant has an acceptable protection time, therefore, this plant could be considered as a good herbal repellent against anopheles mosquitoes.
The Dual Effect of CXCR4 Antagonist AMD3100 on the Recruitment of Endogenous Endothelial Precursor Cells and Outcome of Stroke
Authors: Xia Yingfeng , He Qiaoyuan , Li Chao , Yuan Ruyi , Fu Nanliang , Xiang Huiyao , Mou Jing , Huang Ming
Published: December 2020

Background: To examine the effect of CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 on the recruitment of endogenous endothelial precursor cells (EPC) in ischemic boundary zone (IBZ) after permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) and outcome of stroke. Methods: Adult male SD rats underwent pMCAO. AMD3100 was injected once at 1 hour (an early phase) or on day 14 (a later phase) or for 7 consecutive days from day 1 to day 7(3 mg/kg/day) after pMCAO. Flow cytometry analyses were performed to detect endogenous EPCs in peripheral blood (PB). Endogenous EPCs in IBZ were identified by immunofluorescence staining. SDF-1 expression levels in IBZ were measured by real time PCR dynamically. Infarct volume and neurological outcome including neurological score and body weight loss were used to estimate the outcome of stroke. Results: AMD3100-treatment could mobilize endogenous EPCs to PB of rats after pMCAO, and continuous AMD3100-treatment mobilized more EPCs to PB than single AMD3100-treatment. Single AMD3100 treatment at 1 hour after pMCAO rather than continuous AMD3100 treatment in an early phase could recruit endogenous EPCs in IBZ and improve neurological outcome after pMCAO. Single AMD3100 administration in later phase (on day 14) could not recruit endogenous EPCs to IBZ or improve neurological outcome after pMCAO. SDF-1 relative expression in IBZ increased in an early phase from day 1 to day 3, then decreased in later phase from day 7 to day 14. Conclusions: Our findings suggested that single AMD3100 treatment in an early phase could recruit endogenous EPCs to IBZ and improve the outcome of stroke, and AMD3100 might be used for the treatment of stroke if given at proper time window.
Fundamentals of Inertial Focusing in High Aspect Ratio Curved Microfluidics
Authors: Cruz Javier , Hjort Klas
Published: December 2020

Microfluidics exploiting the phenomenon of inertial focusing have attracted much attention in the last decade, as they provide the means to facilitate the detection and analysis of rare particles of interest in complex fluids such as blood and natural water. Although many interesting applications have been demonstrated, the systems remain difficult to engineer. A recently presented line of the technology, inertial focusing in High Aspect Ration Curved (HARC) microfluidics, has the potential to change this and make the benefits of inertial focusing more accessible to the community. In this paper, with experimental evidence and fluid simulations, we provide the two necessary equations to design the systems and successfully focus the desired targets in a single, stable, and high-quality position. Last, the experiments revealed an interesting scaling law of the lift force, which we believe provides a valuable insight into the phenomenon of inertial microfluidics.
Magnitude of Surgical Site Infection and Its Associated Factors Among Patients Who Underwent a Surgical Procedure at Debre Tabor General Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Walelign Mequanint Bezie , Demissie Tadesse Wuletaw , Desalegn Abaynew Honelign
Published: December 2020

Background: Surgical site infections are the commonest nosocomial infections and responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality as well as increased hospitalizations and treatment cost related to surgical operations. The aim of this study was to determine the magnitude and factors associated with surgical site infections at the surgical ward of Debre Tabor General Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.Method: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted on patients who underwent a surgical procedure at Debre Tabor General Hospital in 2020. The sample size was determined using the single population proportion formula. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 21 software. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions analysis were employed. The odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval were taken to test the association between the dependent and independent variables. A P-value of less than 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.Result: In this study, a total of 191 patients have participated in the study yielding a response rate of 100%. The mean age of the respondents was 2.5 (SD ±0.68) years. The most age group 115(60.2%) resides at the age group greater than 40 years. More than one half(62.3) of the surgical clients were females. Most of the clients were farmers(32.5%) and unable to read and write(41.9) based on the occupation. The magnitude of surgical site infection in this study was found to be 11.5% (95% CI: 7.8%, 15.9%). The factors existence of comorbidity and antibiotic prophylaxis was given were found to be significantly associated with the magnitude of surgical site infection.Conclusion: The magnitude of surgical site infection in this study was high. Proper management of patients with co-morbidity especially those with diabetes mellitus, proper administration of anesthesia, and delivering intravenous antimicrobial prophylaxis before surgery as ordered would significantly reduce the incidence of surgical site infection.
Relationship Between GIP Receptor Gene Polymorphism rs10423928 and Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women in Shanghai
Authors: Zhang Lizhi , He Jinwei , Sun Xiang , Pang Dongyue , Hu Jingjing , Feng Bo
Published: December 2020

Background: GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide) has been found to affect bone metabolism. GIPR single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is related to its activity, but the relationship between GIPR SNP and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women is still unclear. The Aim of this study was to investigate the association between GIPR SNP and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women in Shanghai.Methods: GIP SNP rs10423928 was detected in 884 postmenopausal women in Shanghai. The correlation between GIPR SNP and BMD was further assessed.Results: There was a statistical difference between the dominant model of this site rs10423928 and the bone mineral density of the femoral neck (P = 0.035) and the Wards triangle area (P = 0.033). Conclusions: The rs10423928 of GIPR is related to the BMD of postmenopausal women in Shanghai, China.
An organic quantum battery
Authors: Quach James , McGhee Kirsty , Ganzer Lucia , Rouse Dominic , Lovett Brendon , Gauger Erik , Keeling Jonathan , Cerullo Giulio , Lidzey David , Virgili Tersilla
Published: December 2020

Quantum batteries harness the unique properties of quantum mechanics to enhance energy storage compared to conventional batteries. In particular, they are predicted to undergo superextensive charging, where batteries with larger capacity actually take less time to charge. Up until now however, they have not been experimentally demonstrated, due to the challenges in quantum coherent control. Here we implement an array of two-level systems coupled to a photonic mode to realise a Dicke quantum battery. Our quantum battery is constructed with a microcavity formed by two dielectric mirrors enclosing a thin ﬁlm of a fluorescent molecular dye in a polymer matrix. We use ultrafast optical spectroscopy to time resolve the charging dynamics of the quantum battery at femtosecond resolution. We experimentally demonstrate superextensive increases in both charging power and storage capacity, in agreement with our theoretical modelling. We find that decoherence plays an important role in stabilising energy storage, analogous to the role that dissipation plays in photosynthesis. This experimental proof-of-concept is a major milestone towards the practical application of quantum batteries in quantum and conventional devices. Our work opens new opportunities for harnessing collective effects in light-matter coupling for nanoscale energy capture, storage, and transport technologies, including the enhancement of solar cell efficiencies.
How Prevalent Are Symptoms and Risk Factors of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in a Sexually Conservative Population.
Authors: Al-Kuran Oqba , Lama Al-Mehaisen , Hamza Alduraidi , Alhusban Naser , Attarakih Balqees , Sultan Anas , Othman Zeina , AlSha´rat sanal , AlHilali Shoug , Alkouz Nadia , Alibrahim Noura , AlMusallam Wafaa
Published: December 2020

Background: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is the inflammation of the adnexa of the uterus, that mainly manifests in a subclinical/chronic context and goes largely underreported. However, it poses a major threat to women’s health, as it is responsible for infertility and ectopic pregnancies, as well as chronic pelvic pain. Previous studies in Jordan have not reported PID, attributed mainly to the social structure of the country which largely represent a sexually conservative population. Our study aims to report the clinical symptoms that point towards PID and investigate the major risk determinants in a Jordanian population, in a cross-sectional study. Methods: One hundred sixty-eight consecutive adult women that came in the Outpatient Clinics of Gynaecological Department of the Jordan University Hospital were interviewed and their medical history and symptoms were registered and analysed. A Score for PID symptoms, we developed, was given to each woman. Results and correlations were then statistically tested.Results: Our study population consisted of relatively young women (37.7±11) that had their first child at an average age of 24.1 (±4.8) and a mean parity of 3.1 (±2.2). Fifty-eight women (34.5%) reported having undergone at least one CS, while the mean PID Symptom Score was 3.3 (±2.3). The women in our study exhibited 8 symptoms of PID, namely dysmenorrhea and vaginal discharge; being the commonest (45.2% and 44.6% respectively), in addition to chronic pelvic pain, pelvic heaviness, , menorrhagia, dyspareunia, , urinary symptoms, and smelly urine, and reported history of 3 conditions that can be attributed to PID, that is infertility, preterm labour, and miscarriages.Conclusions: Our PID Scoring System seems to identify the risk factors of PID and predict well the PID likelihood. This score predicts that women with higher parity, who used contraceptives and underwent any invasive medical procedure are expected to score higher in the PID Symptom Score. Our data also suggest that PID should not be ruled out in the Jordanian population when symptoms are compatible to this diagnosis.
Which Contraceptive Methods Are Used for Stopping Childbearing in India? Levels, Patterns and Determinants
Authors: ROY AVIJIT , RAHAMAN MARGUBUR , KAPASIA NANIGOPAL , CHOUHAN PRADIP
Published: December 2020

Background: This study aims to examine patterns and socio-economic correlates of using contraceptives for limiting childbirths in India. Methods: The study is based on data from the fourth round of the National Family Health Survey considering 339,537 currently married, non-pregnant and fecund women. Bivariate and three separate binary logistic regression model were carried out to accomplish the research objectives. Results: Most of the women stated to postpone their childrearing after age 25 years and after achieved children 2 or more in India. Still, 13.5% women were not using any contraceptive to satisfy their demand for postpone childbearing and 8% women were using traditional contraceptive to postpone their childbearing and using traditional contraceptive to postpone childrearing was higher among women aged 15-19 years, illiterate, poor, Muslims and belong from central and northeast region. Women’s age, parity, year of schooling, wealth status, religion, caste, mass media and region found to be strong determinants of met need for limiting childbearing and using traditional contraceptives in India. Conclusion: The met need for demand of spacing methods was fur lagging to desire goals of SDG-3.7.The government should needs to focus on women with high unmet need for limiting and use traditional methods for limiting.
Novel Compatibility of Huanglianjiedu Decoction in Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia in Alzheimer's Disease1
Authors: Ma Su-Ya , Wang Xu , Du Xiang-Yi , Su Ming-Wan , Yao Xuan , Shi Jing
Published: December 2020

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by progressive cognitive decline. Behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD) are another critical characterization of AD besides cognitive deficit. However, the pharmacological treatment of BPSD remains challenging. HuanglianJiedu decoction (HLJDD), which consists of four herbs, is applied to treat Alzheimer's disease in traditional Chinese medicine, especially AD with BPSD. While the frequently used compatibility of HLJDD, whose principal ingredient is Coptidis Rhizoma (Huang-lian, CR), may not be suitable for treating BPSD. Elucidating the mechanism underlying each herb is critical to HLJDD's pertinent compatibility.Methods: We utilized network pharmacology to analyze the herbs' targets and biological processes for treating BPSD in HLJDD and employed molecular docking to explore the binding activity between herbs' main active ingredients and neurotransmitter receptors. Results: Results showed that Scutellariae Radix (Huang-qin, SR) and Phellodendri Chinrnsis Cortex (Huang-bai, PCC) have better anti-BPSD effects than CR and Gardeniae Fructus (Zhi-zi, GF). SR has a better anti-neuroinflammation function, can better regulate blood vessels. PCC has a higher binding affinity with Dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (HTR2A). CR and GF may be better for neuronal signaling.Conclusion: For treating BPSD, SR and PCC are the principal ingredients while CR and GF are the ancillary herbs.
The Effects of Bushen Jianpi Recipe on the Maturation of Plasmacytoid Dendric Cell to Treat Chronic Hepatitis B 
Authors: Wang Lei , Ye Zixiang , Zhang Chunlei , Shu Xiangbing , Lu Yifei , Wu Tao , Zheng Peiyong
Published: December 2020

Background: Plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) has been reported showing obvious maturation and deficient function in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. One of the traditional Chinese medicine, Bushen Jianpi Recipe (BSJPR), has efficacy in suppressing HBV by improving immune system. In this study, we explained its mechanism on cellular level.Methods: We measured the contents of pDC maturation-related extracellular cytokines and intracellular signaling pathway proteins in HBV-infected or not infected PBMCs and pDCs to explore the cellular mechanism of BSJPR. There were six groups: a normal serum control group added with fetal bovine serum, a rat serum control group added with normal serum, two HBV virus groups added with normal serum and HBV with different concentrations, and two BSJPR groups added with drug-containing serum and HBV with different concentrations.Results: It was revealed that the effect of BSJPR on extracellular cytokines was vague, while intracellular toll-like receptor (TLR) /myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) /TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) signaling pathway proteins were induced by BSJPR.Conclusions: This study confirmed that BSJPR induces pDC to alleviate CHB via up-regulating intracellular TLR/MyD88/TRIF signaling pathway proteins rather than directly regulating extracellular cytokines.
The Female Financial Inclusion and the Sustainable Development in MENA Countries
Authors: MOUSSA WAJDI
Published: December 2020

In this paper we try to examine the effect of Microfinance on the sustainable development in a group of Middle East and North Africa countries (MENA). Can we consider that Microcredits are performing instrument for the sustainable development in MENA countries? To answer this question we chose a period from 1990 to 2018 and a sample of 10 MEN countries was selected. We have approximated sustainable development supported by the endogenous variable corresponds to the net adjustment of sustainable development (GS). Exogenous variables are: Active female borrowers (AFB), Labor Force female (LFF), the female to male labor force ratio, Gender parity index (GPI), GINI Index (GINI) and the GDP deflator. In the empirical analysis, we examined the linear fit of this long-term relationship within an error correction (ECM) model. We founded that 67% of sustainable development imbalance will be corrected by micro-financial institutions as the speed of adjustment brings this imbalance back to a stable state in the long term. Subsequently, we adopted the GMM method to determine the dynamics of sustainable development. Our results showed that participation rate of men in the labor force has a negligible and not significant influence on sustainable development and this can refer to their limit.JEL classification: O16; O57; C38; C33.
Methylprednisolone-induced Anaphylaxis Diagnosed by Intradermal Skin Test Not Basophil Activation Test: A Case Report
Authors: Amano Hitomi , Kitagawa Yoshiro , Muto Taichiro , Okumura Akihisa , Iwayama Hideyuki
Published: December 2020

BackgroundAnaphylaxis is a severe systemic allergic reaction. Glucocorticoids rarely induce anaphylaxis. Determination of allergens includes the in vivo skin prick test (SPT) and intradermal skin test (IDST) and the in vitro basophil activation test (BAT). However, the usefulness of BAT in determining drug allergens has not been adequately studied.Case presentation A 10-year-old boy was admitted to our hospital because of fever and arthralgia for 2 weeks. He had not been treated with glucocorticoids. According to the laboratory tests and imaging studies, he was suspected to have bacterial myositis and was treated with ceftriaxone. However, his symptoms persisted for more than 2 weeks. With a suspicion of autoinflammatory arthritis, we planned methylprednisolone (mPSL) sodium succinate (MPS) during pulse therapy (30 mg/kg). Fifteen minutes after the injection of mPSL, he had wheezing and generalized wheal formation with decreased oxygenation. The administration of mPSL was discontinued because anaphylaxis was suspected. Thirty minutes after the administration of oxygen and oral olopatadine, the anaphylactic symptoms resolved. One month after discharge, SPT, IDST, and BAT were performed under the administration of oral prednisolone. The SPTs for MPS, hydrocortisone sodium succinate (HCS) and prednisolone sodium succinate (PSS) were negative. The IDST for MPS was positive. Moreover, the IDSTs for HCS and PSS were positive, whereas those for dexamethasone sodium phosphate and betamethasone sodium phosphate were negative. The BAT for MPS was negative at 1.0% and 1.9% after an incubation time of 1 hour and 24 hours, respectively, although the BAT for histamine as positive control was 60.4% and 18.3% after an incubation time of 1 hour and 24 hours, respectively. The BATs for HCS and PSS were negative. Therefore, we diagnosed as anaphylaxis secondary to the succinate ester in MPS.ConclusionsIn this case, IDST was useful for the diagnosis of MPS-induced anaphylaxis, whereas BAT was negative. This highlighted the need to choose the appropriate procedure in the diagnosis of steroid-induced anaphylaxis. The results in our patient suggested that BAT may be considered when IDST and SPT are negative. Further studies are necessary to clarify the diagnostic strategy for steroid-induced anaphylaxis.
Reach, Adoption and Sustainability of a Mobile Clinical Decision Support Tool Paired with a National Quality Improvement Project Targeting Emergency Department Febrile Infant Management
Authors: Kerns Ellen K , McCulloh Russell , Dai Hongying
Published: December 2020

Background: Electronic clinical decision support (ECDS) tools are often developed within quality improvement (QI) projects to increase adherence with the latest clinical practice guidelines (CPGs).However, scalability and sustainability of ECDS beyond the time and location of their associated project are very limited. Deploying ECDS using a mobile app (mECDS) has shown the potential to be a viable method of overcoming these limitations. However, it is unclear what pattern the spread of uptake and use of such a tool might follow.Methods: In 2016, our team released a freely available mECDS as part of a national multi-site project entitled Reducing Variation in Infant Sepsis Evaluation (REVISE). For this study, we evaluated trends in weekly mECDS usage measures defined as 1) REVISE metric related screen views (MetricHits), 2) unique designated market areas (DMA) where the mECDS was used (Unique DMAs), 3) density of use or MetricHits/Unique DMAs (HitsPerDMA). Linear regressions were performed to examine the app usage trends measures across three time periods (during REVISE, 1-year post, 2-year post). Separate regression analyses were performed among DMAs that contained a REVISE site and those that did not. The number of REVISE sites in the DMA, the number of children’s hospitals in the DMA, DMA population, and season were also evaluated as confounding factors.Results: Strong growth in the number of unique DMAs and MetricHits occurred during the period of 1-year post the REVISE project. The overall usage continued to be relatively stable during the period of 2-years post. HitsPerDMA had stronger growth in DMAs with a REVISE site than those without. MetricHits were higher in DMAs with a larger population, more REVISE sites, and more children’s hospitals. There were also more MetricHits in the summer than in the winter months. Conclusions: Both temporal and spatial increases in mECDS app usage were found as evidence of a contagion method of spread. Other confounding factors may also play a role in app reach, adoption, and sustainability. Further research is needed to determine the factors driving passive diffusion and its impact on clinical practice and patient outcomes.
Swadapt1: Assessment of an Electric Wheelchair-driving Robotic Module in Standarized Circuits: A Prospective, Controlled, and Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Leblong Emilie , Fraudet Bastien , Devigne Louise , Babel Marie , Pasteau François , Nicolas Benoit , Gallien Philippe
Published: December 2020

ObjectivesThe objective of this study is to highlight the effect of a robotic driver assistance module of Powered Wheelchair (PWC), using infrared sensors and accessorizing a commercial wheelchair) on the reduction of the number of collisions in standardized circuit in a population with neurological disorders by comparing driving performance with and without assistance.MethodsThis is a prospective, single-center, controlled, randomized, single-blind pilot study including patients with neurological disabilities who are usual drivers of electric wheelchairs. The main criterion for evaluating the device is the number of collisions with and without the assistance of a prototype anti-collision system on 3 circuits of increasing complexity. Travel times, cognitive load, driving performance, and user satisfaction are also analyzed.Results23 patients completed the study. There was a statistically significant reduction in the number of collisions on the most complex circuit.ConclusionThis study concludes that the PWC driving assistance module is efficient in terms of safety without reducing the speed of movement in a population of people with disabilities who are habitual wheelchair drivers. The prospects are therefore to conduct tests on a target population with driving failure or difficulty who could benefit from this device so as to allow them to travel independently and safely.
Sexual Dysfunction After Traumatic Injury Corrected by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: A Case Report
Authors: Wang Xin , Kang Yue-ting , Li Xin-yi , Liu Wei , Liu Zhong-liang , Zheng Bin , Duan Xiao-qin
Published: December 2020

Background: Neurogenic sexual dysfunction (NSD) is a common problem in patients after spinal and pelvic trauma. New treatment is needed beyond medicine or psychological therapies. This study probes the potential for using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for NSD rehabilitation, the insights of which can inform further research.Methods: In a 24-year-old man who fell from six floor building, with multiple spinal and pelvic injuries, we used rTMS to treat his subsequent NSD. The therapy lasted for 3 months. Motor and sensory conductivities, as well as sexual function, were evaluated before and after the treatment.Results: The rTMS regimen produced satisfactory improvement on patient’s nerve conductivities and sexual activity. Improvements in sexual function were confirmed at 1-year follow-up. Conclusions: rTMS delivered a positive treatment to this patient with NSD. Potential mechanisms by which rTMS regulate sexual function need to be further investigated.
Transcriptome Analysis Revealed the Regulation of Gibberellin and the Establishment of Photosynthetic System Promote Rapid Seed Germination and Early Growth of Seedling in Pearl Millet
Authors: Wu Bingchao , Sun Min , Zhang Huan , Yang Dan , Lin Chuang , Khan Imran , Wang Xiaoshan , Zhang Xinquan , Nie Gang , Feng Guangyan , Yan Yanhong , Li Zhou , Peng Yan , Huang Linkai
Published: December 2020

Background：Seed germination is the most important stage for the formation of a new plant. This process starts when the dry seeds begin to absorb water and ends when the radicles sticks out. The germination rate of different plant seeds varies differently. Most energy plants that usually grow on marginal land, the rapid germination of seeds is more conducive to its superiority in competition with surrounding plants, which is also the guarantee of normal plant development and high yield. Pearl millet is an important cereal crop that shares widespread applications in the world. It has the advantages of fast growth, high yield, and low maintenance cost. It can also be used to extract bioethanol to solve the increasingly prominent energy problems. Previous germination experiments are the evidence of very fast seed germination rate of pearl millet, but the molecular mechanisms behind it is still unclear.Results: Through the germination test and the measurement of the germs and radicles length of the seedlings, we found that pearl millet seeds germinated very quickly after 24 hours of swelling of the dry seeds. By using transcriptome sequencing technology, we characterized the gene expression patterns of dry seeds, water imbibed seeds, germs and radicles of seedlings, and found the more DEGs in radicles than germs. Further analysis showed that different genome clusters function specifically at different tissues and time periods. WGCNA and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that that many genes that positively regulate plant growth and development are highly enriched and expressed, especially the gibberellin signaling pathway that can promote seed germination. We speculated that the activation of these key genes promotes the germination of pearl millet seeds and the growth of seedlings. To verify this inference, we measured the content of the main effect hormone gibberellin and found that the gibberellin content after seed imbibition rose sharply and remained at a high level.Conclusions：This study explored the expression patterns of genes involved in pearl millet growth from the germination of dry seeds to the early growth stages. Also identifies the key genes involved in the regulation of seed germination and seedling growth. The activation of key genes in these pathways may contribute to the rapid germination and growth of seeds and seedlings in pearl millet. These results provide new insights to solve the problem for the plants with slow seed germination and seedling growth.
Fabrication and Characterization of Black GaAs Nanoarrays via ICP Etching
Authors: Ma Jing , Zhao Yongqiang , Liu Wen , Yang Fuhua , Wang Xiaodong
Published: December 2020

GaAs nanostructures has attracted more and more attention due to its excellent properties such as increasing photon absorption. The fabrication process on GaAs substrate were rarely reported and most of the preparation processes are complex. Here, we reported a black GaAs fabrication process using a simple Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching process，with no extra lithography process. The fabricated sample has a low Reflectance value，close to zero. Besides, the black GaAs also displayed hydrophobic property, with a water contact angle (CA) of 125°. This kind of black GaAs etching process could be added to the fabrication workflow of photodetectors and solar cell devices to further improve their characteristics.
Plasma Amyloid-β Oligomerization Assay as a Pre-Screening Test for Amyloid Status
Authors: Mofrad Rosha Babapour , Scheltens Philip , Kim SangYun , Kang Sungmin , Youn Young Chul , An Seong Soo A. , Tomassen Jori , Berckel Bart N.M. van , Visser Pieter Jelle , Flier Wiesje M. van der , Teunissen Charlotte E
Published: December 2020

Background: We assessed the performance of plasma amyloid oligomerization tendency (OAβ) as a marker for abnormal amyloid status. Additionally, we examined long-term storage effects on plasma OAβ. Methods: We included 399 subjects regardless of clinical diagnosis from the Amsterdam Dementia Cohort and European Medical Information Framework for AD project (age:63.8±6.6; 44% female). Amyloid status was determined by visual read on Positron Emission Tomography (PET; n abnormal= 206). Plasma OAβ was measured using the Multimer Detection System (MDS). Long-term storage effects on MDS-OAβ were assessed using General Linear Models. Associations between plasma MDS-OAβ and Aβ-PET status were assessed using logistic regression and receiver operating characteristics analyses. Correlations between plasma MDS-OAβ and CSF biomarker levels were evaluated using Pearson correlation analysesResults MDS-OAβ was higher in in individuals with abnormal amyloid, and it identified abnormal Aβ-PET with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.74 (95%CI: 0.67-0.81), especially in samples with short-term storage duration. Combining APOEe4 and age with plasma MDS-OAβ revealed an AUC of 81% for abnormal amyloid PET status (95%CI:74%-87%). Plasma MDS-OAβ correlated negatively with MMSE (r=-0.29,p<.01), and CSF Aβ42 (r=-0.20,p<0.05), and positively with CSF t-Tau (r=0.20,p=0.01).Conclusions: Plasma MDS-OAβ combined with APOEe4 and age, accurately identifies brain amyloidosis in a large Aβ-confirmed population. Using plasma MDS-OAβ as a screener reduced the costs and number of PET scans needed to screen for amyloidosis, which is relevant for clinical trials. Additionally, plasma MDS-OAβ levels appeared affected by long-term storage duration, which could be of interest for others measuring plasma Aβ biomarkers.
Quantitative Assessment on the Severity Degree of Alzheimer Dementia by Algebraic Bigdata Analysis on Cortical Thickness Profiles of Human Brains
Authors: Kim Sangyeol , Park Seongjun , Chang Iksoo
Published: December 2020

Background: Alzheimer disease(AD) affects profoundly the quality of human life. Quantifying the severity degree of AD for an individual person is critical for the early diagnose and prescription for delaying the further dementia progression. However, the quantitative diagnose for human subjects of the mild cognitively impairment (MCI) or AD with the different degree of dementia severity is still a difficult task due to both the very broad distribution of dementia severities and the lack of good quantitative determinant to assess it.Methods: We performed the bigdata analysis of cortical thickness of 1516 human brain images. Instead of dealing with cortical thickness at all 327,684 vertices on the whole cortex of a human brain from MRI, we extracted the essential cortical thickness data at a few hundred vertices to distinguish efficiently AD, MCI, and cognitively normal (CN) cohorts each other. We learned a statistical score matrix and a covariance correlation matrix of cortical thickness profile between human subjects as a set of classifier and predictor for diagnosing the dementia states of AD.Results: The subjects with AD were recognized with more than 91% accuracy in self-recognition test, and the independent validation subjects with AD were predicted correctly with more than 82% accuracy in stratified 3-fold cross validation test. Given a new person for diagnosing and provided with the covariance correlation matrix developed in this study as a predictor, more importantly one could estimate the personalized severity degree of dementia in terms of a quantitative value, ranging from 0 for the basin of CN state to 1 for the basin of AD state. Also, one could sort out the broad spectrum of the severity of dementia for MCI subjects in that whether they are prone to CN or how much they are progressed toward AD.Conclusions: Here, a new approach of algebraic bigdata analysis is presented for the quantitative assessment on both the severity degree of AD and the systematic classification of three cohorts based on cortical thickness data of 1516 human brain images from MRI. This new approach can facilitate the better diagnose of AD with the different degree of dementia.
GIS-Based Multi-criteria Analysis for Sustainable Urban Green Spaces Planning in Emerging Towns of Ethiopia: The Case of Sululta Town
Authors: Gelan Eshetu
Published: December 2020

BackgroundUrban green spaces are important components, contributing in different ways to the quality of human well-being. In the planning and management of urban centres, attention to the appropriate site selection of urban green spaces with regard to the possible importance that these spaces have from the perspectives of ecology, socioeconomic, mentality, etc., is an inevitable requirement. In present decades, land suitability mapping methods and GIS have been used to support urban green space planners in developed countries; however, its application and practices are limited in developing countries, like Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study has to select potential sites for green spaces in Sululta town that assist an effective planning process of green areas in a sustainable way. MethodsIn this study, GIS-based Multi-criteria analysis (MCA) has been adopted to select suitable sites for urban green spaces. Existing land use, proximity to settlement, road and water body, population density, land ownership, topography, and scenic attractiveness were recognized as the key factor affecting urban green land suitability. ResultBased on GIS-based MCA, 13.6%, 34%, 28%, and 18.9% of the study area are highly suitable, suitable, moderately suitable, and poorly suitable, respectively. Furthermore, based on the suitability analysis out of the total area of the study town 5.5% of the landmass is not suitable for green spaces. ConclusionTherefore, the application of this tool has provided an effective methodology to solve a complex decisional problem in green spaces site selection in the study town and urban planning all over the country.
Adjuvant Capecitabine-Containing Chemotherapy Benefit and Homologous Recombination Deficiency Status Among Early-Stage TNBC Patients in the FinXX trial
Authors: de Boo Leonora W. , Jóźwiak Katarzyna , Joensuu Heikki , Lindman Henrik , Lauttia Susanna , Opdam Mark , Steenis Charlaine van , Brugman Wim , Kluin Roelof J.C. , Schouten Philip C. , Kok Marleen , Nederlof Petra M. , Hauptmann Michael , Linn Sabine
Published: December 2020

Background: Recent data demonstrate that patients with early-stage triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) benefit from escalating adjuvant treatment with capecitabine. However, since a substantial proportion of patients does not benefit, predictive biomarkers to select those individuals upfront are needed. Over half of all TNBCs have a BRCA1-like DNA copy number signature similar to the profile found in germline BRCA1-mutated breast cancers and indicative for homologous recombination deficiency. We evaluate this signature as a predictive biomarker for capecitabine benefit in archived specimens of the randomized controlled FinXX trial. Additionally, we compared the concordance of our DNA-based BRCA1-like classifier with the RNA-based NanoString BRCAness signature. Methods: Early-stage TNBC patients were randomized between adjuvant capecitabine-containing chemotherapy (TX+CEX: capecitabine plus docetaxel, followed by cyclophosphamide, epirubicin and capecitabine) and conventional adjuvant chemotherapy (T+CEF: docetaxel, followed by cyclophosphamide, epirubicin, and fluorouracil). Breast tumor BRCA1-like status was determined on low coverage, whole genome next-generation sequencing data using an established DNA comparative genomic hybridization algorithm. We used interaction analysis in proportional hazards models to evaluate whether benefit of adjuvant capecitabine-containing versus conventional chemotherapy differs between BRCA1-like and non-BRCA1-like tumors in early-stage TNBC patients.Results: For 129 (63.9%) of the 202 TNBC patients the BRCA1-like status could be determined. Thirty-five recurrences and 32 deaths occurred during a median follow-up of 10.7 years. The capecitabine effect on recurrence-free survival did not significantly differ between the 68 patients (52.7%) with a BRCA1-like tumor (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.24-1.81) and others (HR 0.23, 95% CI 0.08-0.70, P interaction = 0.17), also after adjustment for clinico-pathological variables. Conclusions: In the FinXX trial, the BRCA1-like status was not associated with a differential benefit from capecitabine-containing adjuvant chemotherapy compared to conventional chemotherapy in the TNBC subgroup. Based on this study, it is unlikely that the BRCA1-like classifier can be used to distinguish patients who do and do not benefit from capecitabine-enriched standard adjuvant chemotherapy.