bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ionization Efficiency in a Hot Flat Disc-Shaped Cavity
Authors: Turek M.
Published: June 2020

Hot cavity ion sources of different kinds are widely used in nuclear and mass spectroscopy, especially in on-line isotope separation devices attracting attention of scientists and engineers looking for high ionization efficiency, robustness and beam purity. In the paper a new type of hot ionizer cavity is proposed: namely cavity having the shape of a flat disc, which may be especially suitable for short-lived nuclides to be ionized.

A numerical model of the ion source is presented in the paper. The particle tracking code takes into account ionization at hot surfaces and enables modeling of both flat disc cavity and standard elongated cavity ionizers. The code enables calculation of total ionization efficiency and is suitable for stable and long-lived nuclides.

Influence of the flat disc cavity geometry (thickness and radius) and its temperature on total ionization efficiency was considered – it was shown that the efficiency increases with cavity radius due to the growing number of particle-wall collisions. This effect may be important in the case of the hard-to-ionize nuclides.

The optimal ionizer geometry is characterized by 90 % efficiency, even for substances with rather low ionization coefficient (of order 0.05). The role played by the size of the extraction opening is explained – it is demonstrated that the ionization efficiency increases due to the opening radius reduction. It is also proven that extraction voltage of 1–2 kV is sufficient to maintain optimal ionizer efficiency.
Os desafios para a consolidação da pesquisa aplicada no Instituto Federal Catarinense
Authors: Junior Vanderlei Freitas , De Carvalho Wenis
Published: June 2020

Os Institutos Federais, criados em 29 de dezembro de 2008, por meio da Lei 11.892, têm como uma de suas funções constitutivas a realização de pesquisa aplicada. Entretanto, alguns trabalhos têm demonstrado as dificuldades da consolidação desta modalidade de pesquisa nestas instituições. Diante deste cenário, este estudo tem por objetivo identificar os desafios para a consolidação da pesquisa aplicada no Instituto Federal Catarinense, a partir da análise do caso do Câmpus Avançado Sombrio. Para a consecução deste objetivo, levou-se a efeito uma pesquisa qualitativa, de caráter exploratório, concluindo-se que as dificuldades apontadas pela literatura também são verificadas junto ao câmpus pesquisado, e que os desafios para a modificação desta realidade passam pela otimização da alocação da carga horária docente, da melhor alocação de recursos e de um trabalho de capacitação e conscientização, capazes de sensibilizar os docentes da instituição na direção do conhecimento das obrigações constitutivas dos Institutos Federais, dos pressupostos da pesquisa básica e das demandas dos arranjos produtivos, sociais e culturais locais.
Illness prevalence rate in Tibet, China: Data from the 2018 National Health Service Survey
Authors: Deng Rendan , sangzhu Laba , deji Zhaxi , Wang Guihua , Hong Peiwei , Li Jiaqi , Li Qiwen , Wan Yang , Xiong Hai
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Tibet is located in the high-altitude area of Southwest China, where the health level is influenced by specific factors such as the natural environment and living habits. However, there has been little research that has focused on Tibetan health conditions. The two-week prevalence rate is an important indicator of the health level of residents. The purpose of this study was to understand the health status of the residents and the health service needs in Tibet.
Methods
The two-week prevalence rate was calculated using data from a population of 10,493 individuals aged 15 and above that was obtained from the 2018 Sixth National Health Service Survey of Tibet. We initially analysed the types and associated factors of two-week illnesses in Tibetan. The influencing factors for the two-week prevalence rate in Tibet were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Subsequently, we assessed the severity of two-week illnesses by calculating the average days of the duration of the disease, the days of being bedridden and the days of being off work.
Results
The two-week illness prevalence rate was 20.1% in Tibet. Digestive system diseases were frequent, and hypertension was the most common disease. According to the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the two-week prevalence rate was associated with gender, age, residence, marital status, and employment status. In addition, the severity of two-week illnesses differed among the residents.
Conclusion
This study identified that health service needs have increased in Tibet and that the health status of the local residents needs to be improved. Moreover, hypertension has become a major health hazard for the residents and should be considered in the utilization of health services.
Another piece of the Zika puzzle: Assessing the associated factors to microcephaly in a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Gallo Luciana Guerra , Martinez-Cajas Jorge L , Peixoto Henry Maia , Pereira Ana Carolina Esteves da Silva , Carter Jillian E , McKeown Sandra , Shaub Bruno , Ventura Camila V. , de França Giovanny Vinicius Araújo , Pomar Leo , Ventura Liana O. , Nerurkar Vivek R. , de Araújo Wildo Navegantes , Velez Maria P.
Published: June 2020

Background: Although it is known that Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy may lead to microcephaly in the fetus, the prognostic factors associated with this tragic disorder remain unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the prognostic factors associated with the incidence of microcephaly in congenital ZIKV infection. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE (R) Epub ahead of print, Embase, Embase Classic, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, LILACS, and various thesis databases to identify human studies reporting microcephaly associated with congenital ZIKV infection. We requested primary data from the authors of the included studies to calculate summary estimates and conduct the meta-analysis of the most prevalent factors.Results: We screened 4106 titles and abstracts, and identified 12 studies for inclusion in the systematic review. The assessment of ZIKV infection and the definition of microcephaly varied among studies. A total of 6154 newborns/fetuses were enrolled; of those, 1120 (18.20%) had a diagnostic of ZIKV infection, of which 509 (45.45%) were diagnosed with microcephaly. Nine studies addressed the link between congenital ZIKV infection and neurological findings in newborns/fetuses. Half of the studies provided primary data. Three out of 11 factors of interest seem to be prognostic factors of microcephaly: infant’s sex – males compared to females: Relative Risk (RR) 1.30, 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) 1.14 to 1.49; the stage of pregnancy when infection occurred – infection in the first trimester of pregnancy compared to infection at other stages of pregnancy: RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.82; and asymptomatic infection compared to symptomatic infection during pregnancy: RR 0.68; 95% CI 0.60 to 0.77.Conclusion: Our findings support the female-biased resistance hypothesis and reinforce the risk associated with the stage of pregnancy when ZIKV infection occurs. Continued surveillance of ZIKV infection during pregnancy is needed to identify additional factors that could contribute to developing microcephaly in affected fetuses.
Comparative transcriptome profiling reveals cold stress responsiveness in two contrasting Chinese jujube cultivars
Authors: Zhou Heying , He Ying , Zhu Yongsheng , Li Meiyu , Song Shuang , Bo Wenhao , Li Yingyue , Pang Xiaoming
Published: June 2020

Background: Low temperature is a major factor influencing the growth and development of Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) in cold winter and spring. Little is known about the molecular mechanisms enabling jujube to cope with different freezing stress conditions. To elucidate the freezing-related molecular mechanism, we conducted comparative transcriptome analysis between ‘Dongzao’ (low freezing tolerance cultivar) and ‘Jinsixiaozao’ (high freezing tolerance cultivar) using RNA-Seq. Results: More than 20,000 genes were detected at chilling (4°C) and freezing (-10°C, -20°C, -30°C and -40°C) stress between the two cultivars. The numbers of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the two cultivars were 1831, 2030, 1993, 1845 and 2137 under the five treatments. Functional enrichment analysis suggested that the metabolic pathway, response to stimulus and catalytic activity were significantly enriched under stronger freezing stress. Among the DEGs, nine participated in the Ca2+ signal pathway, thirty-two were identified to participate in sucrose metabolism, and others were identified to participate in the regulation of ROS, plant hormones and antifreeze proteins. In addition, important transcription factors (WRKY, AP2/ERF, NAC and bZIP) participating in freezing stress were activated under different degrees of freezing stress. Conclusions: Our research first provides a more comprehensive understanding of DEGs involved in freezing stress at the transcriptome level in two Z. jujuba cultivars with different freezing tolerances. These results may help to elucidate the molecular mechanism of freezing tolerance in jujube and also provides new insights and candidate genes for genetically enhancing freezing stress tolerance.
Association between Aminotransferase/alanine Aminotransferase Ratio and Cardiovascular Disease mortality in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Feng Xiaoran , Wen Yueqiang , Peng FenFen , Wang Niansong , Zhan Xiaojiang , Wu Xianfeng
Published: June 2020

Background: Elevated aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase (AST/ALT) ratio is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) among the general population. However, an association between AST/ALT ratio and CVD mortality in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) has received little attention.Methods: A total of 2224 incident PD patients from multi-centers were enrolled from November 1, 2005, to June 30, 2017, in this retrospective cohort study. The primary endpoint was CVD mortality. Eligible patients were divided into high and normal groups according to the AST/ALT ratio cut-off for CVD mortality with the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The associations between the AST/ALT ratio and CVD mortality were evaluated by the Cox regression model.Results: Of eligible 1579 patients with a mean age of 49.3±14.6 years, 55.4% of patients were male, 18.1% of patients had diabetes, and 64.2% of patients had hypertension. The prevalence of a high AST/ALT ratio was 76.6% in the cohort population. During a follow-up period with 4659.6 patient-years, 316 patients died, of which 193 (61.1%) deaths were caused by CVD episodes. The incidence of CVD mortality in the high group was significantly higher than that in the normal group (13.1% versus 9.2%, P=0.024). Cumulative CVD mortality rates were significantly different between the two groups by Kaplan-Meier analysis [hazards ratio (HR)=1.50, 95% confidence index (CI) 1.09-2.07, P=0.014]. After adjusting for confounding factors, a higher AST/ALT ratio was independently associated with an increased risk of CVD mortality compared with their counterparts (HR=1.43, 95%CI 1.08-2.41, P=0.002). Conclusions: PD patients with high baseline AST/ALT ratio levels may be at a significant risk of CVD mortality.
Reduction of ureteral stent encrustation by modulating the urine pH and inhibiting the crystal film with a new oral composition: a m ulticenter, placebo controlled, double blind, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Torrecilla Carlos , Fernández-Concha Jaime , Cansino José R. , Mainez Juan A. , Amón José H. , Costas Simbad , Angerri Oriol , Emiliani Esteban , Martín Miguel Arrabal , Polo Miguel Arrabal , García Ana , Reina Manuel C. , Sánchez Juan F. , Budía Alberto , Pérez-Fentes Daniel , Grases Félix , Costa-Bauzá Antonia , Cuñé Jordi
Published: June 2020

Background: Encrustation of ureteral double J stents is a common complication that may affect its removal. The aim of the proposed study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new oral composition to prevent double J stent encrustation in indwelling times up to 8 weeks.
Methods: A double-blinded, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 105 patients with indwelling double J stents enrolled across 9 public hospitals in Spain. The patients were randomly assigned (1:1) into intervention (53 patients) or placebo (52 patients) groups for 3 to 8 weeks and both groups self-monitored daily their morning urine pH levels. The primary outcome of analysis was the degree of stent ends encrustation, defined by a 4-point score (0 – none; 3 – global encrustation) using macroscopic and electron microscopy analysis of crystals, after 3 to 8-w indwelling period. Score was exponentially transformed according to calcium levels. Secondary endpoints included urine pH decrease, stent removal, and incidence of adverse events.
Results: The intervention group benefits from a lower global encrustation rate of stent ends than placebo group (1% vs 8.2%; p < 0.018). Mean encrustation score was 85.12 (274.5) in the placebo group and 18.91 (102.27) in the intervention group (p < 0.025). Considering the secondary end points, treated patients reported greater urine pH decreases (p = 0.002). No differences in the incidence of adverse events were identified between the groups.
Conclusions: Our data suggest that the use of this new oral composition is beneficial in the context of ureteral double J indwelling by decreasing mean, as well as global encrustation.
Trial registration: This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov under the name “Combined Use of a Medical Device and a Dietary Complement in Patient Urinary pH Control in Patients With an Implanted Double J Stent” with date 2nd November 2017, code NCT03343275, and URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT03343275?term=NCT03343275&draw=2&rank=1

Keywords: double J stent; encrustation; nutraceutical; L-methionine; phytin; pH.
Global Health in Preconception, Pregnancy and Postpartum Alliance: Development of an International Consumer and Community Involvement Framework.
Authors: Bergmeier Heidi , Vandall-Walker Virginia , Skrybant Magdalena , Teede Helena J , Bailey Cate , Baxter Jo-Anna B , Borges Ana Luiza Vilela , Boyle Jacqueline A , Everitt Ayesha , Harrison Cheryce L , Herrera Margely , Hill Briony , Jack Brian , Jones Samuel , Jorgensen Laura , Lim Siew , Montanaro Cynthia , Redman Leanne , Stephenson Judith , Sundseth Hildrun , Thangaratinam Shakila , Thynne Paula , Walker Ruth , Skouteris Helen
Published: June 2020

Background: The goal of the Global Health in Preconception, Pregnancy and Postpartum (HiPPP) Alliance, comprising consumers and leading international multidisciplinary academics and clinicians, is to generate research and translation priorities and build international collaboration around healthy lifestyle and obesity prevention among women across the reproductive years. In doing so, we actively seek to involve consumers in research, implementation and translation initiatives. There are limited frameworks specifically designed to involve women across the key obesity prevention windows before (preconception), during and after pregnancy (postpartum). The aim of this paper is to outline our strategy for the development of the HiPPP Consumer and Community (CCI) Framework, with consumers as central to co-designed, co-implemented and co-disseminated research and translation. Method: The development of the framework involved three phases: In Phase 1, 21 Global HiPPP Alliance members participated in a CCI workshop to propose and discuss values and approaches for framework development; Phase 2 comprised a search of peer-reviewed and grey literature for existing CCI frameworks and resources; and Phase 3 entailed collaboration with consumers (i.e., members of the public with lived experience of weight/lifestyle issues in preconception, pregnancy and postpartum) and international CCI experts to workshop and refine the HiPPP CCI Framework (guided by Phases 1 and 2).Results: The HiPPP CCI Framework’s values and approaches identified in Phases 1-2 and further refined in Phase 3 were summarized under the following five key principles: 1. Inclusive, 2. Flexible, 3. Transparent, 4. Equitable, and 5. Adaptable. The HiPPP framework describes values and approaches for involving consumers in research initiatives from design to translation that focus on improving healthy lifestyles and preventing obesity specifically before, during and after pregnancy; importantly it takes into consideration common barriers to partnering in obesity research during perinatal life stages, such as limited availability associated with family caregiving responsibilities.Conclusion: The HiPPP CCI Framework aims to describe approaches for implementing meaningful CCI initiatives with women in preconception, pregnancy and postpartum periods. Evaluation of the framework is now needed to understand how effective it is in facilitating meaningful involvement for consumers, researchers and clinicians, and its impact on research to improve healthy lifestyle outcomes.
Comparison of Bayesian and frequentist methods for prevalence estimation under misclassification
Authors: Flor Matthias , Weiβ Michael , Selhorst Thomas , Müller-Graf Christine , Greiner Matthias
Published: June 2020

Background: Various methods exist for statistical inference about a prevalence that consider misclassifications due to an imperfect diagnostic test. However, traditional methods are known to suffer from truncation of the prevalence estimate and the confidence intervals constructed around the point estimate, as well as from under-performance of the confidence intervals' coverage.

Methods: In this study, we used simulated data sets to validate a Bayesian prevalence estimation method and compare its performance to frequentist methods, i.e. the Rogan-Gladen estimate for prevalence, RGE, in combination with several methods of confidence interval construction. Our performance measures are (i) error distribution of the point estimate against the simulated true prevalence and (ii) coverage and length of the confidence interval, or credible interval in the case of the Bayesian method.

Results: Across all data sets, the Bayesian point estimate and the RGE produced similar error distributions with slight advanteges of the former over the latter. In addition, the Bayesian estimate did not suffer from the RGE's truncation problem at zero or unity. With respect to coverage performance of the confidence and credible intervals, all of the traditional frequentist methods exhibited strong under-coverage, whereas the Bayesian credible interval as well as a newly developed frequentist method by Lang and Reiczigel performed as desired, with the Bayesian method having a very slight advantage in terms of interval length.

Conclusion: The Bayesian prevalence estimation method should be prefered over traditional frequentist methods. An acceptable alternative is to combine the Rogan-Gladen point estimate with the Lang-Reiczigel confidence interval.
Clinical Evaluation of Toric Intraocular Lens Implantation Based on iTrace Wavefront Keratometric Astigmatism
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Li Hui , Zhou Jing , Zhang Yaqin , Zhang Suhua
Published: June 2020

Background: There was no standard technique for measuring corneal astigmatism. The iTrace wavefront aberrometry of cornea calculated steep power and axis based on the best Zernike mathematical fit from all topo data within 4 mm circle. It was supposed to be more accurate than iTrace simulated keratometry which was calculated based on only 4 points on the circle of 3 mm. This study evaluated visual outcomes, rotational stability after performing toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation planning based on the wavefront aberrometry of the cornea with iTrace. Setting: Single site in China, Shanxi Eye Hospital, Shanxi, China.Design: Prospective case series.Methods: The study included 85 eyes of 63 patients undergoing phacoemulsification and toric IOL implantation. The IOL power and cylinders were chosen with the help of the iTrace toric planning program using wavefront keratometric astigmatism. Over a 3-month follow-up period, astigmatic changes were assessed using the Alpins vector method. Results: Preoperative mean corneal topographic astigmatism was 1.91 diopters (D) ± 0.69 (standard deviation). Postoperative mean refractive astigmatism decreased significantly to 0.48 D ± 0.34. Surgical induced astigmatism was 1.73 D ± 0.77 and the mean correction index was 0.89 ± 0.22, showing a slight undercorrection. The proportion of astigmatism ≤ 0.50 D increased from 0 to 71.8% postoperatively.Conclusions: This is the first study evaluating the clinical outcomes of using iTrace wavefront keratometric readings to plan a toric IOL implantation. The findings show that the iTrace built-in toric calculator with wavefront keratometric astigmatism for toric IOL planning is safe and effective.Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN94956424, Retrospectively registered (Date of registration: 05 February 2020). http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN94956424.
Seed characterization and early Nitrogen metabolism performance of seedlings from Altiplano and Coastal ecotypes of Quinoa
Authors: Pinto/Irish Katherine , Pena Teodoro Coba de la , Ostria-Gallardo Enrique , Ibanez Cristian , Vriones Vilbett , Vergara Alexander , Alvarez Rodrigo , Castro Catalina , Sanhueza Carolina , Castro Patricio , Bascunan-Godoy Luisa
Published: June 2020

Background: Early seed germination and a functional root system development during establishment are crucial attributes contributing to nutrient competence under marginal nutrient soil conditions. Chenopodium quinoa Willd (Chenopodiaceae) is a rustic crop, able to grow in marginal areas. Altiplano and Coastal/Lowlands are two representative zones of quinoa cultivation in South America with contrasting soil fertility and edaphoclimatic conditions. In the present work, we hypothesize that the ecotypes of Quinoa from Altiplano (landrace Socaire) and from Coastal/Lowland (landrace Faro) have developed differential adaptive responses in order to survive under conditions of low availability of N in their respective climatic zones of Altiplano and Lowlands. In order to understand intrinsic differences for N competence between landraces, seed metabolite profile and germinative capacity were studied. Additionally, in order to elucidate the mechanisms of N uptake and assimilation at limiting N conditions during establishment, germinated seeds of both landraces were grown at either sufficient nitrate (HN) or low nitrate (LN) supply. We studied the photosynthetic performance, protein storage, root morphometrical parameters, activity and expression of N-assimilating enzymes, and the expression of nitrate transporters of roots in plants submitted to the different treatments. Results: Seeds from Socaire landrace presented higher content of free N-related metabolites and faster seed germination rate compared to Faro landrace. Seedlings of both ecotypes presented similar physiological performance at HN supply, but at LN supply their differences were exalted. At LN, Socaire plants showed an increased root biomass (including a higher number and total length of lateral roots), a differential regulation of a nitrate transporter (a NPF6.3 -like homologue) belonging to the Low Affinity Transport System (LATS), and an upregulation of a nitrate transporter (a NRT2.1 -like homologue) belonging to the High Affinity nitrate Transport System (HATS) compared to Faro. These responses as a whole could be linked to a higher amount of stored proteins in leaves, associated to an enhanced photochemical performance in Altiplano plants, in comparison to Lowland quinoa plants. Conclusions: These differential characteristics of Socaire over Faro plants could involve an adaptation to enhanced nitrate uptake under the brutal unfavorable climate conditions of Altiplano.
A cross-sectional study of breastfeeding practices and complementary feeding in Ecuador: implications for localized policy applications and promotion of breastfeeding
Authors: Freire Wilma B. , Waters William F. , Roman Diana , Belmont Philippe , Wilkinson-Salamea Emily , Diaz Adrian , Palacios Ivan , Bucheli Enrique
Published: June 2020

Background: Best practices in breastfeeding are often not followed despite appropriate levels of knowledge and positive attitudes regarding the benefits of human milk. For many reasons, some women do not initiate breastfeeding, suspend breastfeeding early, or initiate complementary feeding earlier than recommended. Usual measurement methods use large sample surveys at a national scale, which are not well suited for monitoring sub-national differences. Methods: In order to understand how local infant feeding practices could influence policy and promotion practices, this paper uses data pooling methodology to analyse breastfeeding patterns in different Ecuadorian settings: Cumbayá parish, located near Quito, the Ecuadorian capital; the city of Macas and rural surroundings in the Amazon basin province of Morona Santiago; and the province of Galapagos. Using a cross-sectional design, we compiled and analysed data derived from three surveys of mothers of infants between 0 and 59 months of age. The surveys were conducted independently between August 2017 and August 2018. While the surveys are representative of each respective setting, sampling designs and survey methods differ, but the same demographic information and data based on standard breastfeeding indicators established by WHO were collected. In order to account for differences in the different settings, the design effect of each survey was considered in the analysis. Results: Significant differences were found in breastfeeding practices, particularly between the suburban parish near Quito and Galapagos on one hand and urban and rural parts of Morona Santiago province, on the other. For instance, initiation of breastfeeding in the first hour after birth occurs in only 36.2 percent of cases in Cumbayá but in 75.4 percent of cases in urban Morona. Conclusions: Differences among population segments reflect specific opportunities and barriers to practices related to promoting optimal infant health and nutrition. Consequently, regional or local conditions that often are not apparent in national-level data should orient policies and promotion activities in specific populations.
A mixed methods analysis of Mozambique’s HPV vaccine delivery network actors.
Authors: Soi Caroline , Shearer Jessica , Chilundo Baltazar , Muchanga Vasco , Matsinhe Luisa , Gimbel Sarah , Sherr Kenneth
Published: June 2020

Background: Global health partnerships have expanded exponentially in the last two decades with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance considered the model’s pioneer and leader because of its vaccination programs’ implementation mechanism. Gavi, relies on diverse domestic and international partners to carry out the programs in low- and middle-income countries under a partnership engagement framework (PEF). In this study, we utilized mixed methods to examine Mozambique’s Gavi driven partnership network which delivered human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine during the demonstration phase.Methods: Qualitative tools gauged contextual factors, prerequisites, partner performance and practices while a social network analysis (SNA) survey measured the partnership structure and perceived added value in terms of effectiveness, efficiency and country ownership. 40 key informants who were interviewed included frontline Ministry of Health workers, Ministry of Education staff and supporting partner organization members, of whom 34 participated in the social network analysis survey.Results: Partnership structure SNA connectivity measurement scores of reachability (100%) and average distance (2.5), were high, revealing a network of very well-connected HPV vaccination implementation collaborators. Such high scores reflect a network structure favorable for rapid and widespread diffusion of information, features necessary for engaging and handling multiple implementation scales. High SNA effectiveness and efficiency measures for structural holes (85%) and low redundancy (30%) coupled with high mean perceived effectiveness (97.6%) and efficiency (79.5%) network outcome scores were observed. Additionally, the tie strength average score of 4.1 on a scale of 5 denoted high professional trust. These are all markers of a collaborative partnership environment in which disparate institutions and organizations leveraged each entity’s comparative advantage. Lower perceived outcome scores for country ownership (24%) were found, with participants citing the prominent role of several out-of-country partner organizations as a major obstacle.Conclusions: While there is room for improvement on the country ownership aspects of the partnership, the expanded, diverse and inclusive collaboration of institutions and organizations that implemented the Mozambique HPV vaccine demonstration project was effective and efficient. We recommend that the country adapt a similar model during national scale up of HPV vaccination.
Microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of in situ nano Ta4HfC5 reinforced SiBCN composite ceramics
Authors: Wang Bingzhu , Daxin Li , Yang Zhihua , Jia Dechang , Guan Jingyi , Peng Hao , Cai Delong , He Peigang , Duan Xiaoming , Zhou Yu
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the in situ nano Ta4HfC5 reinforced SiBCN-Ta4HfC5 composite ceramics were prepared by a combination of two-step mechanical alloying and reactive hot-pressing sintering. The microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of the resulting SiBCN-Ta4HfC5 were studied. After the first-step milling of 30 h, the raw materials of TaC and HfC undergone crushing, cold sintering and short-range interdiffusion to finally obtain the high pure nano Ta4HfC5. A hybrid structure of amorphous SiBCN and nano Ta4HfC5 was obtained by adopting a second-step ball-milling. After reactive hot-pressing sintering, amorphous SiBCN has crystallized to nano SiC and turbostratic BN(C) phases while Ta4HfC5 retained the form of nano structure. With the in situ generation of 2.5 wt% Ta4HfC5, Ta4HfC5 is preferentially distributed within the turbostratic BN(C); however, as Ta4HfC5 content further raised to 10 wt%, it mainly distributed in the grain-boundary of BN(C) and SiC. The introduction of Ta4HfC5 nanocrystals can effectively improve the flexural strength and fracture toughness of SiBCN ceramics, reaching to 344.1 MPa and 4.52 MPam1/2, respectively. This work has solved the problems of uneven distribution of ultra-high temperature phase in ceramic matrix, which is beneficial to the real applications of SiBCN ceramics.
Synthesis of a novel 89Zr labeled HER2 affibody and its application study in tumor PET imaging
Authors: Xu Yuping , Wang Lizhen , Pan Donghui , Yan Junjie , Wang Xinyu , Yang Runlin , Li Mingzhu , Liu Yu , Yang Min
Published: June 2020

Background:
Human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) is an essential biomarker for tumor treatment. Affibody is an ideal vector for preparing HER2 specific probes because of high affinity and rapid clearance from normal tissues etc. Zirconium-89 is a PET imaging isotope with a long half-life and suitable for monitoring biological processes for more extended periods. In this study, a novel 89 Zr-labeled HER2 affibody, [ 89 Zr]Zr-DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2, was synthesized, and its imaging characters were also assessed.
Results:
The precursor, DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2, was obtained with a yield of nearly 50%. The radiochemical yield of [ 89 Zr]Zr -DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2 was 90.2±1.9% , and the radiochemical purity was higher than 95%. The total synthesis time was only 30 minutes. The probe was stable in PBS and serum. The tracer accumulated in HER2 overexpressing human ovarian cancer SKOV-3 cells. In vivo studies in mice bearing tumors showed that the probe highly retained in SKOV-3 xenografts even for 48 hours. The tumors were visualized with good contrast to normal tissues. ROI analysis revealed that the average uptake values in the tumor were greater than 5%IA/g during 48 hours postinjection. On the contrary, the counterparts of MCF-7 tumors kept low levels（~1%IA/g）. The outcome was consistent with the immunohistochemical analysis and ex vivo autoradiography. The probe quickly cleared from the normal organs except kidneys and mainly excreted through the urinary system.
Conclusion:
The novel HER2 affibody for PET imaging was easily prepared with satisfactory labeling yield and radiochemical purity. [ 89 Zr]Zr-DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2 is a potential candidate for detecting HER2 expression. It may play specific roles in clinical cancer theranostics.
Synthesis of a novel 89Zr labeled HER2 affibody and its application study in tumor PET imaging
Authors: Xu Yuping , Wang Lizhen , Pan Donghui , Yan Junjie , Wang Xinyu , Yang Runlin , Li Mingzhu , Liu Yu , Yang Min
Published: June 2020

Background: Human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) is an essential biomarker for tumor treatment. Affibody is an ideal vector for preparing HER2 specific probes because of high affinity and rapid clearance from normal tissues etc. Zirconium-89 is a PET imaging isotope with a long half-life and suitable for monitoring biological processes for more extended periods. In this study, a novel 89Zr-labeled HER2 affibody, [89Zr]Zr-DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2, was synthesized, and its imaging characters were also assessed. Results: The precursor, DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2, was obtained with a yield of nearly 50%. The radiochemical yield of [89Zr]Zr -DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2 was 90.2±1.9% , and the radiochemical purity was higher than 95%. The total synthesis time was only 30 minutes. The probe was stable in PBS and serum. The tracer accumulated in HER2 overexpressing human ovarian cancer SKOV-3 cells. In vivo studies in mice bearing tumors showed that the probe highly retained in SKOV-3 xenografts even for 48 hours. The tumors were visualized with good contrast to normal tissues. ROI analysis revealed that the average uptake values in the tumor were greater than 5%IA/g during 48 hours postinjection. On the contrary, the counterparts of MCF-7 tumors kept low levels（~1%IA/g）. The outcome was consistent with the immunohistochemical analysis and ex vivo autoradiography. The probe quickly cleared from the normal organs except kidneys and mainly excreted through the urinary system. Conclusion: The novel HER2 affibody for PET imaging was easily prepared with satisfactory labeling yield and radiochemical purity. [89Zr]Zr-DFO-MAL-Cys-MZHER2 is a potential candidate for detecting HER2 expression. It may play specific roles in clinical cancer theranostics.
WITHDRAWN: The mechanism of jian-Gan-Xiao-Zhi decoction in IR adipocytes and its component analysis
Authors: Fang Fang , Wen WeiBo , Xie Xuehua , Yang Ling , Zhang Xu , Zhao jie
Published: June 2020

Background: Jian-Gan-Xiao-Zhi decoction (JGXZ) is a formula of traditional Chinese medicine to treat patients with NAFLD. Thus, the study aimed to analyze the mechanism of drug serum of JGXZ in adipocytes and detect the main components of JGXZ in rat serum. Methods: The 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were used to establish IR adipocytes model. The lipid accumulation in adipocytes was detected by oil red O staining. After JGXZ treatment, glucose consumption, TC and TG were analyzed by corresponding kits. ROS levels were measured by flow cytometry. In addition, Western Blot was used to assess LKB1/AMPK and JNK/IRS/PI3k/AKT expressions. Except for that, the main components of JGXZ in rat serum samples were detected by LC-MS/MS method. A Phenomenex Luna C18 was used to perform chromatographic separation and detect the concentration of main components in JGXZ. The ion source was ESI. The mobile phase contained methanol and 0.1% formic acid solution. Results: JGXZ significantly decreased glucose levels and adipogenesis, accompanied by decreased IR (p<0.01). Besides, JGXZ markedly affected ROS, LKB1/AMPK and JNK/IRS/PI3k/AKT levels(p<0.01). The R1, Rg1, paeoniflorin, Rb1, astragaloside and tanshinone could be significantly quantified. Conclusions: Thus, JGXZ decreased glucose and lipid synthesis possibly via ROS/AMPK/JNK pathway. R1, Rg1, paeoniflorin, Rb1, astragaloside and tanshinone in JGXZ could play main roles in treating NAFLD, which could offer assistance for us to study the mechanism of JGXZ on treating NAFLD.
Cross-Contamination by Disinfectant Towelettes Varies by Product Chemistry and Strain
Authors: Voorn Maxwell , Goss Summer , Nkemngong Carine , Li Xiaobao , Teska Peter , Oliver Haley F
Published: June 2020

Background: Disinfectant products are used frequently on environmental surfaces (e.g. medical equipment, countertops, patient beds) and patient care equipment within healthcare facilities. The purpose of this study was to assess the risk of cross-contamination of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa during and after disinfection of predetermined surface areas with ready-to-use (RTU) pre-wetted disinfectant towelettes. Methods: This study tested six disinfectant towelette products against S. aureus ATCC CRM-6538 and P. aeruginosa strain ATCC-15442 on Formica surfaces. Each disinfectant was evaluated on a hard nonporous surface and efficacy was measured every 0.5 m2 using a modified version of EPA MLB SOP-MB-33 to study the risk of cross-contamination. Results: We found that all of the wipes used in this study transferred P. aeruginosa and S. aureus from an inoculated surface to previously uncontaminated surfaces. Disinfectant towelettes with certain chemistries also retained a high level of viable bacteria after disinfection of the surface area. The cross-contamination risk also varied by product chemistry and bacterial strain. Conclusion: Disinfectant wipes can cross-contaminate hard nonporous surfaces and retain viable bacterial cells post-disinfection, especially over larger surface areas. This highlights a need to further investigate the risk disinfectant wipes pose during and post-disinfection and guidance on maximum surface areas treated with a single towelette.
The oncogenic potential of a mutant TP53 gene explored in two spontaneous lung cancer mice models
Authors: Ramelow Julian , Brooks Christopher , GaO Li , Almiman Abeer A , Williams Terence M , Villalona-Calero Miguel A , duan wenrui
Published: June 2020

Background: Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer worldwide. A major impediment to progress in the lung cancer treatment field is the lack of realistic mouse models that replicate the complexity of human malignancy and immune contexture within the tumor microenvironment. Such models are urgently needed. Mutations of the tumor suppressor gene TP53 are among the most common alterations in human lung cancers. Methods: Previously, we developed a line of lung cancer mouse model where mutant human TP53-273H is expressed in a lung specific manner in FVB/N background. To investigate whether the human TP53 mutant has a similar oncogenic potential when it is expressed in another strain of mouse, we crossed the FVB/N-SPC-TP53-273H mice to A/J strain and created A/J-SPC-TP53-273H transgenic mice. We then compared lung tumor formation between A/J-SPC-TP53-273H and FVB/N-SPC-TP53-273H. Results: We found the TP53-273H mutant gene has a similar oncogenic potential in lung tumor formation in both mice strains, although A/J strain mice have been found to be a highly susceptible strain in terms of carcinogen-induced lung cancer. Both transgenic lines survived more than 18 months and developed age related lung adenocarcinomas. With micro CT imaging, we found the FVB-SPC-TP53-273H mice survived more than 8 weeks after initial detection of lung cancer, providing a sufficient window for evaluating new anti-cancer agents. Conclusions: Oncogenic potential of the most common genetic mutation, TP53-273H, in human lung cancer is unique when it is expressed in different strains of mice. Our mouse models are useful tools for testing novel immune check point inhibitors or other therapeutic strategies in treatment of lung cancer.
Aortic stiffness and central hemodynamics in treatment naïve HIV infection: A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Martínez-Ayala Pedro , Alanis-Sánchez Guillermo Adrian , Gonzalez-Hernández Luz Alicia , Álvarez-Zavala Monserrat , Cabrera-Silva Rodolfo Ismael , Andrade-Villanueva Jaime Federico , Sánchez-Reyes Karina , Ramos-Solano Moisés , Castañeda-Zaragoza Diego Alberto , Cardona-Müller David , Tostuka-Sutto Sylvia , Cardona-Muñoz Ernesto , Ramos-Becerra Carlos Gerardo
Published: June 2020

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). HIV infection causes a chronic inflammatory state and increases oxidative stress which can cause endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness. Aortic stiffness measured by carotid femoral-pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and central hemodynamics are independent cardiovascular risk factors and have the prognostic ability for CVD. We assessed cfPWV and central hemodynamics in young individuals with recent HIV infection diagnosis and without antiretroviral therapy. We hypothesized that individuals living with HIV would present greater cfPWV and central hemodynamics (central systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure) compared to uninfected controls. Methods. We recruited 51 treatment-naïve individuals living with HIV (HIV(+)) without previous CVD and 51 age- and sex-matched controls (HIV(-)). We evaluated traditional CVD risk factors including metabolic profile, blood pressure (BP), smoking, HIV viral load, and CD4 T-cell count. Arterial stiffness and central hemodynamics were evaluated by cfPWV, central systolic BP, and central pulse pressure (cPP) via applanation tonometry. Results. HIV(+) individuals presented a greater prevalence of smoking, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and body mass index. 65.9% of HIV(+) individuals exhibited lymphocyte T CD4+ count cell/mm3. <500 cell/µL. There was no difference in brachial or central BP between groups; however, HIV(+) individuals showed significantly lower cPP. We observed a greater cfPWV (mean difference= 0.5 m/s; p<0.01) in HIV(+) compared to controls, even after adjusting for heart rate, mean arterial pressure and smoking. Conclusion: In the early stages of infection, non-treated HIV individuals present a greater prevalence of traditional CVD risk factors, arterial stiffness, and normal or decreased central hemodynamics.
The prognostic value of gender in gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A propensity score matching analysis.
Authors: Rong Jian fang , Chen Si hai , Song Cong hua , Wang Huan , Zhao Qiao yun , Zhao Ru lin , He Ya jing , Yan Li li , Song Yan ping , Wang Fang fei , Xie Yong
Published: June 2020

Background: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) of the stomach are the most common GISTs. The risk, incidence and outcome of cancer are different between the sexes. Whether gender is related to the prognosis of gastric stromal tumors is unclear. Therefore, this study aims to explore the relationship between gender and gastric GIST prognosis.Methods: Data from gastric GIST patients were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to reduce confounding factors, and the clinicopathological features and prognosis of GIST patients were comprehensively evaluated.Results: There were 512 male patients and 538 female patients with gastric GIST. The gender of gastric GIST patients was associated with marital status, surgical treatment, tumor size, and mitotic index (P < 0.05). The Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test revealed that male patients had a higher mortality rate than female patients (P = 0.0024). After matching all the potential confounding factors, the survival of the female gastric GIST patients was better than that of the male gastric GIST patients (P = 0.042). Cox regression analysis revealed that gender was an independent risk factor for overall survival. The risk of death was higher for males than for females (HR: 1.677, 95% CI: 1.150-2.444, P = 0.007). Conclusion: Gender could be a prognostic factor for gastric GIST survival, and male patients had a higher risk of death.
The Prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococci strains isolated from inpatients
Authors: Farmehr Parva , fathi Javad , Hadadi Mahtab , motamedifar mohammad
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Globally nosocomial infection is a significant problem. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Methicillin resistant coagulase negative staphylococci (MRCoNS) are major causes of nosocomial infections. Aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of MRSA and MRCoNS in the southwest of Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 221 non-duplicated staphylococci isolates collected from teaching hospital in Shiraz. The prevalence of MRSA and MRCoNS in clinical samples was identified with conventional microbiological tests. After identification, all of the isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility test and PCR to identify the presence of femA, mecA and pvl genes. Results: 70 (41.7 %) MRSA among 168 S. aureus, and 26 (15.48%) MRCoNS among 53 CoNS were examined. All of the isolates were susceptible to Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (100%). Chloramphenicol (65%) and Gentamicin (23%) were the other most active antibacterial agents against MRSA and MRCoNS. The frequency of pvl gene among S. aureus strains was 3.57%. There is need for developing the antibiotic policy and limiting the use of powerful antibiotics.
Semi field evaluation of freestanding transfluthrin passive emanators and the BG sentinel trap as a “Push-Pull control strategy” against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: Tambwe Mgeni Mohamed , Moore Sarah , Chilumba Hassan , Swai Johnson Kyeba , Moore Jason , Stica Caleb , Saddler Adam
Published: June 2020

Background: Spatial repellents that drive mosquitoes away from treated areas, and odour-baited traps, that attract and kill mosquitoes, can be combined and work synergistically in apush-pull system. Push-pull systems have been shown to reduce house entry and outdoor biting rates of malaria vectors and so have the potential to control other outdoor biting mosquitoes such as Aedes aegypti that transmit arboviral diseases. In this study, semi-field experiments were conducted to evaluate whether a push-pull system could be used to reduce bites from Aedes mosquitoes. Methods: The push and pull under investigation consisted of two freestanding transfluthrin passive emanators (FTPE), and a BG sentinel trap (BGS) respectively. The FTPE contained hessian strips treated with 5.25g of transfluthrin active ingredient. The efficacies of FTPE and BGS alone and in combination were evaluated by human landing catch in a large semi-field system in Tanzania. We also investigated the protection of FTPE over six months. The data was analyzed using generalized linear mixed models with binomial distribution.Results: Two FTPE had a protective efficacy (PE) of 61. 2% (95% Confidence interval (CI): 52.2-69.9) against human landing rate of Aedes aegypti. The BGS did not significantly reduce mosquito landings; the PE was 2.1% (95% CI: -2.9-7.2). The combination of FTPE and BGS (push-pull) provided the PE of 64.5% (95% CI: 59.1-69.9). However, there was no significant difference in the protective efficacy between the push-pull and the two FTPE against Ae. aegypti (p=0.30). The FTPE offered significant protection against Ae. aegypti at month three, with a PE of 46.4% (95% CI: 41.1-51.8), but not at six months with a PE of 2.2 % (95% CI: -9.0-14.0). Conclusions: The PE of the FTPE and the full push-pull system are similar, indicative that bite prevention is primarily due to the activity of the FTPE. While these results are encouraging for the FTPE, further work is needed for a push-pull system to be recommended for Ae. aegypti control. The three-month protection provided by the FTPE against Ae. aegypti bites suggests it would be a useful additional personal protection tool during dengue outbreaks, that does not require regular user compliance.