bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Both Baicalein and Gallocatechin Gallate Efficaciously Inhibit SARS-CoV-2 Replication by Targeting Mpro and Sepsis in Mice
Authors: Xiao Ting , Cui Mengqi , Zheng Caijuan , Zhang Peipei , Ren Shanfa , Bao Jiali , Gao Dandi , Sun Ronghao , Wang Ming , Lin Jianping , Zhang Liang , Li Mingjiang , Li Dongmei , Zhou Honggang , Yang Cheng
Published: July 2021

Severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2) caused the global pandemic of COVID-19 since December 2019. Although most of COVID-19’s patients are mild or common, most of the severe patients have sepsis caused by the cytokine storm, which greatly increases the case fatality rate. Moreover, there is no effective drug that can resist the novel coronavirus so far, so it’s urgent to develop antiviral drug for the SARS-CoV-2. In our research, we screened 29 compounds with a score lower than -6 from 35 flavonoid compounds by molecular docking. (-)-Gallocatechin gallate, (+)-Gallocatechin and Baicalein were identified to have potent inhibit activity with IC50 5.774±0.805μM, 13.14±2.081μM and 5.158±0.928μM by FRET assay. Subsequently, we conducted molecular docking experiments, which showed that (-)-Gallocatechin gallate, (+)-Gallocatechin and Baicalein were non-covalently bound to Mpro through π-π stacking and hydrogen bonds in the Cys145 catalytic site. We further evaluated the effect of (-)-Gallocatechin gallate and Baicalein on cytokine storm use a mouse model of sepsis. (-)-Gallocatechin gallate and Baicalein significant reduced sepsis severity based on weight, murine sepsis score and survival rate and reduced the inflammatory factors level such as TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-4 and IL-10. Overall, (-)-Gallocatechin gallate and Baicalein may be potential drugs for symptomatic treatment of COVID-19.
Methods and Mechanistic Analysis of Improving the Dispersion of Nano Silica Colloidal Particles in Chemical Mechanical Polishing Slurries
Authors: Zeng Nengyuan , Zhao Hongdong , Liu Yuling , Wang Chenwei , Luo Chong , Wang Wantang , Ma Tengda
Published: July 2021

The colloidal silica is usually used as the abrasive for the copper CMP polishing slurry in integrated circuit multilayer copper wiring. The aggregation of colloidal silica in the slurries tend to aggregate spontaneously, resulting in the continuous changes of the polishing effect, such as scratch defects, removal rate, etc. This situation can lead to the potential instability of the polishing slurry, which should be avoided in industrial production. In this paper, the aggregation and dispersion properties of polishing slurries were systematically studied, and an improved scheme was proposed to improve the dispersion of slurries to prevent agglomeration. These affecting factors including slurries’ pH, electrolyte additive (KNO3) and polyelectrolyte (PAA-Na) were assessed with LPC, Zeta potential and particle size. A better pH range for slurries was determined from the point of view of isoelectric point and dissolution of colloidal silica. And the dissolution of colloidal silica was verified by UV-vis experiment. Anionic surfactant (SDS), Cationic surfactant (DTAC) and Nonionic surfactant (AEO-15) was analyzed for their dispersion in slurries from the point of view of static electricity force and steric hindrance space force, and the synergistic mechanism of mixed SDS and AEO-15 on slurries dispersion was put forward. In addition, the effect of the improvement of slurry dispersion on reducing scratching defects on the surface of polished copper blanket was also tested in this paper.
Automated Liver Lesion Detection in 68Ga DOTATATE PET / CT Using a Deep Fully Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Wehrend Jonathan , Silosky Michael , Xing Fuyong , Chin Bennett
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors most commonly metastasize to the liver, however, high normal background 68Ga-DOTATATE activity, and high image noise make metastatic lesions difficult to detect. The purpose of this study is to develop a rapid, automated, and highly specific method to identify 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT hepatic lesions using a 2D U-Net convolutional neural network. Methods: 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT patient studies (n=125; 57 with 68Ga-DOTATATE hepatic lesions and 68 without) were physician annotated using a modified PERCIST threshold, and boundary definition by gradient edge detection. The 2D U-Net was trained independently five times for 100,000 iterations using a linear combination of binary cross entropy and dice losses with a stochastic gradient descent algorithm. Performance metrics included: positive predictive value (PPV), sensitivity, F1 score and area under the precision-recall curve (PR-AUC). Five different pixel area thresholds were used to filter noisy predictions.Results: A total of 233 lesions were annotated with each abnormal study containing a mean of 4 ± 2.75 lesions. A pixel filter of 20 produced the highest mean PPV 0.94±0.01. A pixel filter of 5 produced the highest mean sensitivity 0.74±0.02. The highest mean F1 score 0.79±0.01 was produced with a 20 pixel filter. The highest mean PR-AUC 0.73±0.03 was produced with a 15 pixel filter.Conclusion: Deep neural networks can automatically detect hepatic lesions in 68Ga-DOTATATE PET. Ongoing improvements in data annotation methods, increasing sample sizes, and training methods are anticipated to further improve detection performance.
Path Way For Electrical Conduction In ZnO Basedternary Nanocomposite Room Temperature Ethanol Sensors
Authors: Muthukumaravel Chitra , Mangamma Geramilla , Arumugam Rajesh , Karunakaran Uthayarani , Sahu Rajib
Published: July 2021

In the present investigations, the samples such as zinc oxide, tin oxide, vanadium oxide and their ternary combinations prepared by hydrothermal route were characterised using the state-of-the-art facilities and were systematically analysed. The interface properties between the grain and grain boundaries of these oxides were studied using Conductive atomic force microscopic (CAFM) studies. From the detailed investigations on topography and I-V characteristics, it is revealed that, zinc-tin-vanadium oxide nanocomposite with smaller barrier height of 0.189 eV exhibited pronounced response magnitude of 98.96 % at a faster rate of 32 s at room temperature. The outstanding ethanol sensing property of the ternary nanocomposite is attributed to the hierarchical morphology with large surface area, the formation of heterojunction at the interface, tuning the schottky barrier height, depletion layer manipulation and the electronic effects.
GC-MS analysis of bioactive compounds in ethanolic leaf extract of Hellenia speciosa (J.Koenig) S.R.Dutta
Authors: Raveendran Ramya
Published: July 2021

Hellenia speciosa (J.Koenig) S.R.Dutta, is a plant species belonging to the family Costaceae. It is widely distributed in China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, tropical and subtropical Asia. In Ayurveda, the rhizome of the plant has been extensively used to treat fever, rash, asthma, bronchitis and, intestinal worms. The objective of the present study was to investigate the phytochemical constituents of the leaf of Hellenia speciosa using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectroscopy analysis (GC-MS). The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 17 phytochemical components in the ethanolic leaf extract of Hellenia speciosa. The prevailing bioactive compounds present in Hellenia speciosa were Thymol (RT-10.019;3.59%), Caryophyllene (RT-11.854:0.62%), Caryophyllene oxide (RT-13.919;1.34%), Artumerone (RT-14.795;1.35%), Hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (RT-17.536; 2.77%), 9,12-Octadecanoic acid methyl ester (RT-19.163;1.35%), Squalene (RT- 24.980;1.19%), Piperine (RT-25.745;3.11%), Beta Tocopherol (RT-26.681;2.88%) Vitamin E (RT- 27.290;2.64%), Progesterone (RT-29.608;3.18%), Caparratriene (RT-29.861;9.72%), and Testosterone (RT-30.73;5.81%). The compounds were identified by comparing their retention time and peak area with that of the literature and by interpretation of mass spectra. The results and findings of the present study suggest that the plant can be used as a valuable source in the field of herbal drug discovery. The presence of bioactive compounds justifies the use of plant leaves for treating various diseases with fewer side effects and recommended the plant of pharmaceutical importance. However, further studies are needed to undertake its bioactivity and toxicity profile.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Activities of New Phthalimide and Thiazolidine Derivatives
Authors: Santos Flaviana Alves dos , de Almeida Marcel Lucas , Silva Vitor Alfredo de S. , Viana Douglas Carvalho Francisco , Pereira Michelly Cristiny , de Lucena André S. L. , Pitta Marina Galdino da Rocha , Pitta Maira Galdino da Rocha , Rêgo Moacyr Jesus Barreto de Melo , Pitta Ivan da Rocha
Published: July 2021

The combination of pharmacophoric nuclei with different targets has been a strategy for the development of new drugs aimed at improving cancer treatment. A series of ten novel phthalimido-thiazolidine-2-4-dione derivatives were synthesized by two different synthetic routes. The compounds were tested and evaluated in vitro, through antineoplastic activities against cancer cells. Cell cycle analyzes and clonogenic assay were also performed. In addition to these tests, in silico predictions were performed. The synthesized FT-12 compound (9j) exhibited antiproliferative activity against Panc-1, Sk-mel-28 and PC-3 cells. FT-12 reduced the ability to form new clones, also caused irreversibility in cell cycle, inducing arrest in phase S. Besides, the compound (FT-12) caused necrosis and apoptosis. The results suggest that phthalimido-thiazolidine derivatives may be useful in cancer therapy, highlighting compound FT-12 (9j) as a promising candidate. More studies must be carried out to confirm the viability.
Pan-Cancer Analysis of the Antigen-processing Gene PSMB8 as an Immunologic and Prognostic Biomarker
Authors: Chen Danxiang , Jin Cong , Dong Xubin , Wen Jialiang , Xia Erjie , Wang Ouchen
Published: July 2021

Recently some evidences have demonstrated the significance of PSMB8 in various malignancies. Nevertheless, PSMB8 (proteasome subunit beta 8), more familiar in the field of immunology contributing to the process of antigen presentation, is indeterminate in the role as a survival predictor of human pan-cancer. Besides, how PSMB8 interacts with immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment requires further research. We then penetrated into the analysis of PSMB8 expression profile among 33 types of cancer in TCGA database. The results show that overexpression of PSMB8 was associated with the poor clinical outcomes in overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), disease-free interval (DFI) and progression-free interval (PFI) in most cancer varieties. In addition, there existed distinctly positive correlations between PSMB8 and immunity, reflected straightfowardly in the form of immune scores, tumour-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) abundance, microsatellite instability, tumour mutation burden, and neoantigen level. Notably, specific markers of dendrite cells exhibited the tightest association with PSMB8 expression in terms of tumor-related immune infiltration patterns. Moreover, gene enrichment analysis showed that elevated PSMB8 expression was related to multiple immune-related pathways. We finally validated the PSMB8 expression in our local breast samples via quantitative pCR assays and concluded that PSMB8 appeared to perform well in predicting the survival outcome of BRCA patients. These findings elucidate the pivotal role of the antigen presentation-related gene PSMB8, which could potentially serve as a robust biomarker for the prognosis determination in multiple cancers.
Optical Rerouting in Glass Fibre Composite
Authors: Holmes Christopher , Godfrey Mike , Mennea Paolo L. , Bull Daniel J. , Dulieu-Barton Janice
Published: July 2021

We demonstrate for the first time the reconfigurability of optical signals within advanced laminated composite. The approach employs an ultra-thin planar optical circuit, embedded within glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) that switches an optical input though Ohmic heating. This advance highlights new opportunities for optical reconfigurability within advanced composites, enabling data transmission redundancy and a consideration of branching optical fibre architectures.
Patients Left Without Being Seen in the Emergency Department – A Retrospective Observational Patient Record Study
Authors: Holmberg Markus , Innamaa Tapio , Hällberg Ville , Lukkarinen Timo , Palomäki Ari
Published: July 2021

BackgroundThe share of patients leaving the emergency department without being seen by a physician (LWBS) is an important efficacy marker of emergency departments around the world. It has not however, been of special research interest in the Nordic countries. In this study, we assessed the LWBS rate in Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, in Hämeenlinna, Finland. Secondarily, we gathered information of LWBS patients along with all ED patients.MethodsIn this retrospective observational patient record study, our primary aim was to assess the LWBS rate of all patient visits (n = 41,631) over a 12-month period in a mid-sized Finnish secondary hospital ED. Alongside, we gathered specific information, such as age, gender, time of day and year for attendance, reason for attendance, return to healthcare and mortality after 7 and 30 days and after one year to show characteristics of LWBS patients. We present data and hourly distribution of the LWBS patients against all patient visits to the ED.ResultsA total of 305 LWBS cases were identified, leading to an LWBS rate of 0.73 %. Most LWBS took place during afternoon hours, when the ED was most crowded and waiting times were longest. Among LWBS patients, minor traumas and non-specific pain were the most common reasons for attending. Mortality among LWBS patients was naught (0.0 %) over a one-year follow-up.ConclusionsThe LWBS rate in the Kanta-Häme Central Hospital ED was low. Higher LWBS rate coincided with rush hours and longer waiting times. The proportion of minor traumas was greater than in some earlier studies. These results support the implementation of a fast track line for minor traumas in the ED.
Sex-Specific Oviposition Site Selection and Hatching Success in an Arboreal Treefrog: Implications of a Paternal Nest-Site Selection
Authors: Chuang Ming-Feng , Fuh Nien-Tse , Poo Sinlan , Kam Yeong-Choy
Published: July 2021

Oviposition sites selected by parents is an important factor that affects offspring survival and parental fitness. A good nest site offers offspring protection from competition, predation, and harsh environmental conditions. In amphibians, though oviposition sites are generally determined by females, the distinction between male and female choice can be blurred in species with resource defense mating systems, where males occupy the territory that eggs are deposited before advertising for females. Using a phytotelm-breeding frog (Kurixalus eiffingeri) with male territoriality and biparental care, we examined 310 oviposition sites to determine (1) male choice based on physical characteristics of the site (stump height, inner diameter, stump depth, water depth), and (2) female choice based on site characteristics and male characteristics (snout-vent length and body condition). We hypothesized that either one or both sexes would select oviposition site based on characteristics correlate with higher offspring survivorship. We found that males preferred sites with deeper pools of water, while females showed no preference for sites or males based on the characteristics observed. While we cannot prove any nest traits directly benefit offspring, we contend that increased water depth within the phytotelm may 1) protect male frog from snake predation, which would allow for continued paternal care that increases the hatching success and 2) improve the offspring survival during the larval period. Our findings provide empirical evidence of male-driven oviposition site selection in an amphibian and highlight often overlooked role that males play in increasing their reproductive output by selecting for sites that benefit their offspring.
Research on the Influence of Contact Parameters on the Wear Characteristics of Fixture-bar Friction Pair in Low-stress Cropping
Authors: Guo Weijian , Wang Hang , Tao Jishao , Yang Ning , Yang Bohan , Fu Shulin , Xu Jiayi , Liu Tao , Gou Linhan , Zhang Lijun
Published: July 2021

New structure of grooved fixture with cambered surface is proposed to reduce wear of bar surface caused by fixture in low-stress cropping. The influence of fixture contact parameters and surface quality on wear characteristics of fixture-bar friction pair is researched by using FEM and orthogonal experiment. The radial wear degree is proposed to evaluate the wear degree of bars under four contact conditions, and the wear mechanism of the friction pair is analyzed by SEM. AE-stress-strain cropping platform is established to research the influence of roughness on the comprehensive wear state of the friction pair. Results indicate that the friction pair under A4B1C2D1E4 combination of contact parameters has the best wear reduction effect and lowest radial wear degree which is 0.0469mm2 and 34.50% lower than one of line contact. AE characteristic parameters curves reflect that under different contact condition, when Ra=0.4μm, the values of AE characteristic parameters are all the minimum and comprehensive wear state of the friction pair is the best.
The Conclusion of the Double-Slit Interference Test Violates the Fundamental Rules of Quantum
Authors: Ruhuai Xia
Published: July 2021

The theory of light waves contains a number of errors that violate a fundamental principle of physics: photons can be subdivided indefinitely. Photons can multiply indefinitely. If the phase is shifted π, the electromagnetic, light, or matter waves become negative electromagnetic, negative light, or antimatter waves, respectively, which cancel themselves out. The wavelet sources of light waves are of unknown origin. Photons can be regenerated and reused. The conditions for light waves to interfere do not take into account the effect of polarization direction. The effect of the reflected wave is not represented in the interference fringe. The weak transmittance of the double-slit device will not stand up to close scientific scrutiny. Masks similar to double slit devices do not allow the lithography machine to function properly if the light waves interfere. The pattern of fringe deduced by mathematical model is different from that of double slit interference test. Light waves without bandwidth cannot be accommodated by the theory of electromagnetic waves. The physics of light waves contradicts the principle of the Fourier transform. The spectrum of electromagnetic waves modulated by the transmitted information must produce modulation effect, but this effect does not occur in optical fiber communication. Because the size is much smaller than the wavelength, the photon is sampled equivalent to the light wave, but the corresponding physical properties are not represented by the photon. The wave-particle duality is incompatible with the Doppler principle. To sum up, the conclusion that light waves interfere with each other to produce fringes in the results of double-slit interference test is reached under the condition that most of the physical properties of waves are stripped away, and this conclusion is divorced from objectivity. The theory of light waves is not correct. In any case, light is not a wave. Light waves are misunderstood.
ITS-2 rDNA Nemabiome Metabarcoding in two Isolated Populations of Wild Roe Deer (Capreolus Capreolus) Reveals Variation in Gastrointestinal Nematode Community Composition Between Regions and Among Age Classes
Authors: Beaumelle Camille , Redman Libby , de Rijke jill , Wit Janneke , Benabed Slimania , Debias François , Duhayer Jeanne , Pardonnet Sylvia , Poirel Marie-Thérèse , Capron Gilles , Chabot Stéphane , Rey Benjamin , Yannic Glenn , Gilleard John , Bourgoin Gilles
Published: July 2021

BackgroundGastrointestinal nematodes are ubiquitous for both domestic and wild ungulates which have varying consequences to health and fitness. They exist as complex communities of multiple co-infecting species and we have a very limited understanding of how these communities vary in different hosts, regions and circumstances or on how this affects their impacts. MethodsWe have undertaken ITS-2 rDNA nemabiome metabarcoding on populations of nematode larvae isolated from fecal samples of roe deer of different sex and age classes in the two isolated populations of Chizé and Trois Fontaines in France not co-grazing with any domestic ungulate species. ResultsWe identified 100 Amplified Sequence Variants (ASVs) that assigned to 14 gastrointestinal nematode taxa overall either at genus (38%), or species (62%) level. These taxa were dominated by parasites classically found in cervids - e.g., Ostertagia leptospicularis, Spiculopteragia spp. Higher parasite species diversity was present in the Trois Fontaine than in the Chize populations including the presence of some species more typically seen in domestic livestock, (Haemonchus contortus, Bunostomum trigonocephalum, Cooperia punctata, Teladorsagia circumcincta). No differences in parasite species diversity or community composition was seen in the samples collected from three zones of differing habitat quality within the Chize region. Young roe deer hosted the highest diversity of gastrointestinal nematodes, with more pronounced effects of age apparent in Trois Fontaines. The effect of host age differed between gastrointestinal nematode species, e.g. there was little effect on Ostertagia leptospicularis but a high effect on Trichostrongylus spp. No effect of host sex was detected in either site. ConclusionsThe presence of some livestock parasite species in the Trois Fontaine roe deer popualtions was surprising given the isolation of this population away from grazing domestic livestock. However, it should be noted that a small group of sheep were resident in the region, albeit separately fenced, which raises some interesting questions regarding the introduction of non-native parasite species into wildlife populations. Overall, our results suggest complex interactions between hosts, environments and parasites and illustrate the power of the nemabiome metabarcoding approach to elucidate the composition of gastrointestinal nematode communities in wildlife.
Transabdominal ultrasonography for the preoperative diagnosis of advanced lymph node metastasis in patients with colon cancer: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Imaizumi Ken , Homma Shigenori , Nishida Mutsumi , Soyama Takeshi , Shimura Ryosuke , Kudo Yusuke , Omotehara Satomi , Yokota Isao , Takagi Ryo , Matsui Hiroki , Miyaoka Yoichi , Ichikawa Nobuki , Yoshida Tadashi , Takahashi Norihiko , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Although computed tomography (CT) has been the standard modality for diagnosing lymph node metastasis (LNM), transabdominal ultrasonography (US) can be useful due to its high spatial resolution and use of Doppler signals to precisely analyze lymph nodes. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of US for lymph node assessment, establish US-based diagnostic criteria for LNM, and compare the capability of US with CT for the diagnosis of LNM.
Methods

This retrospective, single-institution, cohort study included patients who underwent radical surgery for clinical stage 0–III colon cancer, between March 2012 and February 2019.
Results

Overall, 34.9% (66/189) of patients had pathological LNM. The optimal US diagnostic criteria were (1) short axis ≥ 7 mm and short/long ratio ≥ 0.75 and (2) at least two of the following: the absence of hilar echoes, expansive appearance, or peripheral/mixed vascularity vascularity by the color Doppler and/or contrast-enhanced method. US showed a higher diagnostic sensitivity (54.5% vs. 43.9%; P = 0.296), higher concordance with the number of pathological LNM (correlation coefficient: US, 0.42; CT, 0.27) and pathological N diagnosis (weighted κ: US, 0.35; CT, 0.18), and higher sensitivity for advanced LNM, including multiple LNMs (47.4% vs 18.4%; P = 0.014) and N2 stage (27.8% vs 5.6%; P = 0.177), than CT.
Conclusions

US has higher sensitivity than CT for diagnosing LNM in colon cancer, along with a more accurate preoperative diagnosis of the N stage. Thus, US may be more helpful than CT for preoperatively deciding the appropriateness of neoadjuvant treatment in patients with colon cancer with advanced LNM.
Influence of Micro Sandblasting on the Surface Integrity of the AlTiN Coated Tool Material
Authors: Yu Zhou , Dong Yujuan , Zheng Guangming , Jiang Xiuli , Cheng Xiang , Yang Xianhai , Chang Kaishuo , Li Xuewei
Published: July 2021

Due to the high-efficiency, environmental protection the low cost, the micro sandblasting technology is used in the surface treatment of the coated tools. The simulation and application of micro sandblasting of the coated tool are carried out to reveal the surface treatment mechanism and analyze the influence of sandblasting parameters on the tool surface integrity. The flow field erosion simulation model of abrasive-water-air three-phase flow is established. The results show that the maximum velocity and pressure are obtained at the center of jet flow. The pressure distribution on the target surface has little correlation with the distance to the nozzle. The surface morphology of the AlTiN coated tool changes obviously after micro sandblasting. Moreover, the low surface roughness Ra of the blasted tool can be obtained at the small sandblasting pressure and time. Additionally, the residual compressive stress on the surface of the AlTiN coated tool is enhanced after micro sandblasting. This work has practical significance for optimizing micro sandblasting process and improving the surface integrity of coated tools.
Influenza Virus Vaccination in Pediatric Nephrotic Syndrome Induces a Significant Reduction of Relapse and Influenza Virus Infection: A Nationwide Survey
Authors: Ishimori Shingo , Ando Takashi , Kikunaga Kaori , Terano Chikako , Sato Mai , Komaki Fumiyo , Hamada Riku , Hamasaki Yuko , Araki Yoshinori , Gotoh Yoshimitsu , Nakanishi Koichi , Nakazato Hitoshi , Matsuyama Takeshi , Iijima Kazumoto , Yoshikawa Norishige , Ito Shuichi , Honda Masataka , Ishikura Kenji
Published: July 2021

Although vaccination may precipitate relapses of nephrotic syndrome (NS) in children with idiopathic NS, no data are available regarding NS activity regarding influenza (flu) virus infections and NS relapses after receiving inactivated flu vaccines. We conducted a nationwide study of children aged 6 months to 15 years with idiopathic NS to assess the relationship between NS relapse, flu vaccination, and flu infections. We used a multivariate Poisson regression model (MPRM) to calculate the risk ratio (RR) for flu infection and for NS relapse in children with and without flu vaccination. Data of 306 children were assessed. The MPRM in all 306 children showed a significantly lower RR for flu infection (RR: 0.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.11–0.38) and for NS relapse (RR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.14–0.35) in children receiving flu vaccination compared with unvaccinated children. In an additional MPRM only among 102 children receiving flu vaccination, they had a significantly lower risk for NS relapse during the post-vaccination period (RR: 0.31. 95% CI: 017–0.56) compared with the pre-vaccination period. Although our study was observational, based on the favorable results of flu vaccinations regarding flu infections and NS relapse, the vaccine may be recommended for children with NS.
GWAS Identifies Candidate Susceptibility Loci and Microrna Biomarkers for Acute Encephalopathy with Biphasic Seizures and Late Reduced Diffusion
Authors: Kasai Mariko , Omae Yosuke , Kawai Yosuke , Shibata Akiko , Hoshino Ai , Mizuguchi Masashi , Tokunaga Katsushi
Published: July 2021

Acute encephalopathy with biphasic seizures and late reduced diffusion (AESD) is a severe encephalopathy preceded by viral infections with high fever. AESD is a　multifactorial disease, however, few disease susceptibility genes have previously been identified. Here, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and assessed functional variants in non-coding regions to study genetic susceptibility in AESD using 254 Japanese children with AESD and 799 adult healthy controls. We also performed a microRNA enrichment analysis using GWAS statistics to search for candidate biomarkers in AESD. The variant with the lowest p-value, rs1850440, was located in the intron of serine/threonine kinase 39 gene (STK39) on chromosome 2q24.3 (p = 2.44 × 10−7, odds ratio = 1.71). The minor allele T of rs1850440 correlated with the stronger expression of STK39 in peripheral blood. This variant possessed enhancer histone modification marks in STK39, the encoded protein of which activates the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. One of the candidate microRNAs identified by the microRNA enrichment analysis was associated with inflammatory responses regulated by the MAPK pathway. This study identified STK39 as a novel susceptibility locus of AESD, found microRNAs as potential biomarkers, and implicated immune responses and the MAPK cascade in its pathogenesis.
Balloon Dacryocystoplasty with Pushed Monocanalicular Intubation as a Primary Management for Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Authors: Lai Chun-Chieh , Yang Cheng-Ju , Lin Chia-Chen , Chi Yi-Chun
Published: July 2021

Though dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) has long served as the gold treatment for primary nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO), balloon dacryocystoplasty (DCP) and silicone stent intubation were applied especially in partial PANDO in the attempts to avoid osteotomy and reduce invasiveness. Herein, we present the results of the combined procedures with balloon DCP and pushed monocanalicular intubation in complete PANDO, and comparison of the combination to balloon DCP alone. We retrospectively reviewed 72 eyes of 56 patients, including 37 eyes of 29 patients in the combination group and 35 eyes of 28 patients in the balloon DCP alone group. There was no significant difference in the success rate between antegrade balloon DCP with and without pushed MCI in general. Nevertheless, interestingly the former procedure was associated with significantly higher surgical success rate than the latter in younger patients.
Gut Microbiota Shifts Favorably with Delivery of Handwashing with Soap and Water Treatment Intervention in a Prospective Cohort (CHoBI7 Trial)
Authors: Monira Shirajum , Barman Indrajeet , Jubyda Fatema Tuz , Ali Sk. Imran , Islam Aminul , Rahman Kazi Mohammad Zillur , Rashid Mahamud-ur , Johura Fatema-Tuz , Sultana Marzia , Zohura Fatema , Bhuyian Sazzadul Islam , Parvin Tahmina , Ahmed Tahmeed , Sack David , Saif-Ur-Rahman K. M. , Hossain Maqsud , Watanabe Haruo , George Christine , Alam Munirul
Published: July 2021

Cholera can result in the expulsion of important microbiota from the gut and result in death if left untreated. The disease transmits mainly via drinking water carrying Vibrio cholerae; and household contacts (HHC) of cholera patients are at elevated risk during the first week of infection. The gut microbiota profiles of HHC-children of cholera patients at Dhaka city slums were investigated before (day 0) and after (day 8) delivery of chlorinated water as part of the cholera-hospital-based intervention for 7 days (CHoBI7), a randomized controlled trial. Results of sequencing and analysis of bacterial community DNA revealed the predominance of two bacterial phyla: Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes at day 0 with a relative abundance of 62 ± 6 (mean ± SEM %) and 32 ± 7, respectively. The pattern reversed at day 8 with a decreased relative abundance of Bacteroidetes (39 ± 12) and an increased abundance of Firmicutes (49 ± 12). Of 65 bacterial families confirmed at day 0, six belonging to Proteobacteria including Vibrionaceae disappeared at day 8. Interestingly, the relative abundance of four Firmicutes families– Lachnospiraceae, Bifidobacteriaceae, Clostridiaceae, and Ruminococcaceae was increased in all five study children at day 8. The observed exclusion of pathogenic Proteobacteria and enhancement of beneficial Firmicutes in the gut of children delivered with chlorinated water as part of WASH intervention reflect a great promise of the CHoBI7 program in preventing cholera and improving child health.
Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Arterial Geometries in Different Severities of Symmetrical Stenosis on Pressure Drop and Pump Power
Authors: SONMEZ Fatin , YILDIRIM Orhan , KARAGOZ Sendogan , GUNDOGDU Fuat
Published: July 2021

Biomedical studies is among the multidisciplinary studies attracting most interest in recent years. Blood and vessel interactions and consequent hemodynamic effects cause cardiovascular diseases. A testing setup constituted by a peristaltic pump (similar to the heart mechanism) system was installed. The purpose of the experimental study presented is to investigate the effect, pressure drop, peristaltic pump inlet and outlet pressure and most importantly, the amount of power consumed by the peristaltic pump regarding arterial stenosis severity with varying areal stenosis percentages. The tests were performed for the pulse values from 54 to 168 bpm by setting up models with 0%, 60%, 70% and 80% symmetrical stenosis severities. In the study, the pressure difference in the test area increased concomitantly with elevated pulse value and increased stenosis severity. This situation revealed that as the intensity of narrowing increases in vessels, the narrowing space differential pressure increases, and this amount increases even more with increased exertion. The pressure at the peristaltic pump outlet increased concomitantly with elevated pulse value and increased stenosis severity. The peristaltic pump overworked to overcome the increased differential pressure related to the increased pulse value and stenosis severity. This result of the experimental data reveals the necessity to avoid activities requiring high pulse in human arteries similarly with a high percentage of stenosis.
Role of ACE2 And TMPRSS2 Protease In SARS-CoV-2 Dynamics Among Household Contacts of PCR-Confirmed Cases: Impact of A Combined Serological Signature Analysis On Diagnosis
Authors: Poch-Páez Jesús , nóvoa-medina yeray , Montesdeoca-Melián Abián , Hernández-Betancor Araceli , Rodríguez-Esparragón Francisco J. , Pavlovic-Nesic Svetlana , Hernández-Febles Melisa , González-Martín Jesús M. , Cappiello Laura , Wallis-Gómez Valewska , Quiralte-Castillo Joaquin , Maján-Rodríguez Alejandro , De Vera Martín Castillo , Angulo-Moreno Maria T. , González-Pérez Augusto , Rodríguez Asunción , Espinel-Padrón Zelidety , Canino-Calderín Elisa M. , Manzano-Gracia Irina , Colino-Gil Elena , Dominguez Ana I. Reyes , Moreno-Afonso Irina , McLaughlin-García Raquel , Naranjo-Báez Maria L. , Bordes-Benitez Ana , De Miguel-Martínez Isabel , Rodríguez-Gallego Carlos , Peña-Quintana Luis
Published: July 2021

Background: To examine the hypothesis that ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression are related to disease susceptibility and severity across age groups and to evaluate the role children play in the household transmission of SARS-CoV-2.Methods: We used a combined serological strategy to confirm past infection in subjects diagnosed with COVID-19 between march 10th and June 2nd 2020 and to evaluate their household members. We also quantified ACE2 and TPMRSS2 expression from saliva. A total of 258 households were included in the study, for a total of 650 volunteers (including 89 children aged under 18 years of age).Results: Our combined testing strategy increased our sensibility by 10%. Antibody indexes decreased with age in children and increased with age in adults. They also increased with disease severity. ACE2 expression was slightly increased in younger children. ACE2 was not related to any other factors. We did not find any relationship between TMPRSS2 expression and any of the studied factors. Children are less frequently infected by SARS-CoV-2 (OR=0,56), they present fewer symptoms and decreased severity. Age and sharing the bedroom with an index case increases the risk of acquiring the infection. The risk in adults increases with age, whereas in children, it increases in younger children. Conclusions: Our results do not support that the level of expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 might be related to susceptibility or severity of COVID19 disease. Children have a decreased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to adults and, when infected, they present less symptoms and a more benign course.
Optimizing palliative chemotherapy for advanced invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma of the lung
Authors: Jang Yoon Jung , Hyun Dong-gon , Choi Chang-Min , Lee Dae Ho , Kim Sang-We , Yoon Shinkyo , Kim Woo Sung , Ji Wonjun , Lee Jae Cheol
Published: July 2021

Background

A primary pulmonary invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma (IMA) is a rare subtype of invasive adenocarcinoma of the lung. The prognosis of advanced IMA depending on chemotherapy regimen has not been fully investigated. Here, we compared the clinical outcomes of patients with advanced IMA treated with different palliative chemotherapies that included novel therapeutics.
Methods

This single-center retrospective study included a total of 79 patients diagnosed with IMA and treated with palliative chemotherapy. The primary outcome was the comparison of overall survival according to palliative chemotherapy type. Risk factors associated with death were evaluated as a secondary outcome.
Results

The study cohort of 79 patients comprised 27 progressive or recurrent cases and 52 initial metastatic patients. Thirteen patients (16.5%) received targeted therapy and 18 cases (22.8%) received immunotherapy. When we compared the survival outcomes of the different treatment regimens, patients with IMA treated by immunotherapy (undefined vs. non-immunotherapy 17.0 months, p < 0.001) had better overall survival rates. However, there was no difference in the prognosis between the cases treated with a targeted therapy (35.6 vs. non-targeted therapy 17.0 months, p = 0.211). None of the conventional regimens produced a better outcome. By multivariable analysis, immunotherapy (HR 0.28; 95% CI 0.11–0.74; P = 0.008) was found to be an independent prognostic factor for death.
Conclusions

This study suggests that immunotherapy for patients with advanced IMA may provide favorable outcomes than other chemotherapy options.
Assessment of knowledge and attitude of women in Herat, Afghanistan on Abortion: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Neyazi Ahmad , Jain Samarvir , Emma Nalianya , Afzali Habibah , Razaqi Nosaibah , Ahmadi Mozhgan , Yousufi Marjan , Zaheer Maryam , Bhattacharya Sudip , III Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno
Published: July 2021

Background: According to the World Health Organization abortion is defined as the termination of pregnancy prior to 20 weeks of gestation or a fetus born weighing less than 500g. The purpose of this study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of women on abortion in Herat city of Afghanistan. This cross-sectional study also serves to fill up the gap of the scarcity of data on abortion in Afghanistan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged over 18 years old from over the 15 districts of Herat city of Afghanistan during 25 th March 2021 to 1 st June 2021. A total of 419 women participated in this study. Results: Total 30.3% of our participants were aged between 18-24 years old and 24.1% of the participants aged between 25-34 years old. Our 78.8% of the participants were married and 35.8% of the participants were Pashtuns by religion. Among 41.5% of them heard about safe abortion methods. Our 56.6% of the participants had a good knowledge score on abortion. Total 57.5% of the participants who aged between 18-24 years old had a good level of knowledge on abortion. Of all the illiterate participants in this study, 46.7% of them had a good level of knowledge on abortion while 76.9% of participants with high school educational level had a good level of knowledge on abortion. Conclusion: A comprehensive campaign on safe abortion covering all the ethical, religious, constitutional, and scientific domains should be considered by the ministry of Public Health. It is recommended that the ministry of education of Afghanistan consider organizing trainings on safe abortion for high school male and female students.
Distribution, phenology, and land cover preference risk assessments of four South-Central US milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) important for monarch butterflies
Authors: Tracy James L , Kantola Tuula , Baum Kristen A , Coulson Robert N
Published: July 2021

South-Central US milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) are critical adult nectar and larval food resources for producing the first spring and last summer/fall generations of declining eastern migratory monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus). MaxEnt niche models were developed for North American ranges of four important South-Central US milkweeds: Asclepias asperula ssp. capricornu, A. viridis, A. oenotheroides, and A. latifolia. Twelve models per species utilized subsets of six to eight of 95 edapho-topo-climatic variables chosen by a random subset feature selection algorithm. Milkweed weekly phenology was compared between early and late season periods of monarch activity. Novel land cover preference risk assessments were developed for milkweeds through land cover utilization-availability analyses, incorporating a novel sample bias reduction method for citizen science data before calculation of relativized electivity index (E*) land cover preference. Asclepias a. ssp. capricornu and A. viridis occurred more frequently during early season monarch activity, while A. oenotheroides and A. latifolia occurred more frequently during late season monarch activity. Milkweed utilization of roadsides varied from 6–31%. Developed-Open Space and Grassland Herbaceous land classes generally had highest benefit among milkweeds. Cultivated Crops and Shrub/Scrub had high risk. Combined milkweed high Ei* kernel density estimation surfaces resolved interior and coastal corridors of milkweed land cover preference providing functional connectivity for the monarch spring and fall migrations. A potentially critical gap in milkweed land cover benefit connectivity was identified in South Texas. Milkweed land cover preference risk assessments can be used to prioritize milkweed habitat conservation for enhancing monarch migration connectivity across the South-Central US.
Current trends and future perspective of renewable energy research in Africa; A Bibliometric analysis
Authors: Afrane Sandylove , Ampah Jeffrey Dankwa , Aboagye Emmanuel Mensah
Published: July 2021

Several countries across the African continent have been challenged with energy crisis for decades. A growing number of studies have identified renewable energies as a sustainable way for Africa to address its persisting energy situation, as the continent has in abundance some of the popular renewable energy sources. However, little has been reported in the body of literature about this growing research area's global mapping and knowledge domain. By bridging this gap in research, it becomes easy to identify which authors, countries, organizations/institutions are likely to produce research that paves the way for the easy penetration of renewable energy into the existing African energy mix. Moreover, potential investors in the continent’s renewable energy can easily identify the most popular and advantageous renewable energy to invest in. Thus, the current study seeks to achieve these aims by conducting a bibliometric analysis on 1037 publications extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection using the VOSviewer software. The results from the study revealed a growing interest in Africa’s renewable energy, with a 200% increase within the last five years. The most productive journal, institution, and country in this subject have been Energy Policy, University of Cape Town, and South Africa, respectively. Research hotspots under different study themes also revealed that ‘solar energy,’ ‘CO2 emissions,’ and ‘rural electrification’ are hot issues that have gained maximum attention over the years. Results from the current study provide a paradigm for the development of Africa’s renewable energy sector.
Pharmacists as Immunizers in Lebanon: A National Survey of Community Pharmacists’ Willingness and Readiness to Administer Adult Immunization
Authors: Youssef Dalal , Abbas Linda Abou , Farhat Suzan , Hassan Hamad
Published: July 2021

Background: Since the focus of healthcare has shifted toward prevention, pharmacists were highly encouraged to expand their practice to include immunization services. Our study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of community-based Lebanese pharmacists, in addition to their willingness to expand their practice scope to include vaccine administration. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the phase preceding the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine in Lebanon between 1st and 31st December 2020. Data were collected from Lebanese pharmacists through an online survey that included information on socio-demographic characteristics, clinical experience, willingness to administer vaccines, knowledge about vaccination, attitudes towards immunization, reasons supporting utilizing pharmacists as immunizers and the requested elements to incorporate immunization in pharmacists’ practice scope. Knowledge and attitude scores were computed. Participants’ overall knowledge and overall attitude were categorized using modified Bloom’s cut-off point as good if the score was equal or more than 60%, and poor if the score was less than 60%.Results: A total of 412 community pharmacists participated in this survey. Of the total, 66.5% of the surveyed community pharmacists are willing to administer vaccines. The majority of surveyed pharmacists (96.1%) had an overall good level. Out of all, 92.7% showed a positive overall attitude score toward immunization, 95.4% agreed that community pharmacists can play an important role in advertising and promoting vaccination. The main needed elements for implementing immunization services in pharmacies listed by participants were: support of health authorities (99.3%), statutory allowance (82.8%), patient demand (95.4%), pharmacist’s interest (96.1%) and continuous education and training workshops on immunization. Conclusion: Most of Lebanese community pharmacists are willing to offer immunizations. However, before any statutory reform targeting the expansion of pharmacists’ scope of practice to include provision of immunizations, it is important to consider education and training as a fundamental part of the process.