bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Medial Tangent of the Proximal Tibia Is a Suitable Extra-articular Landmark in Determining the Tibial Anteroposterior Axis
Authors: Lee Hyunho , Sumino Takanobu , Suzuki Takashi , Sano Yutaka , Endo Noriyuki , Chang Yingshih , Fujimaki Hirohisa , Ryu Keinosuke , Nakanishi Kazuyoshi
Published: February 2021

Background: Tibial rotational alignment in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is generally determined based on intra-articular structure, and can be difficult to ascertain in some cases. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the medial tangent angle of the tibia (MTAT) could be useful in determining the anteroposterior axis of the tibia.Methods: This study was performed on 103 lower limbs in 53 patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty. The selection criteria for our study were based on the assumption that knees in patients undergoing THA exhibit fewer degenerative changes than knees in patients undergoing TKA. Using computed tomography images, the MTAT, comprising the medial tangent of the proximal tibia and the anteroposterior (AP) axis of the tibia, was measured on three horizontal planes: at the distal edge of the tibial tubercle (A), at 5 cm distally (B), and at 10 cm further distally (C). The tibial medial surface was grouped into three classes according to shape: valley type, flat type, and hill type. The percentage at which these shapes were observed in each group was also calculated. Measurement reliability was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient.Results: The angles were 45.2° (interquartile range: IR 43.0-47.7) at A, 42.7° (IR 38.7-45.9) at B, and 42.4° (IR 38.2-45.9) at C. Intra-rater reliability and inter-rater reliability was 0.982 and 0.974 at A, 0.810 and 0.411 at B, and 0.940 and 0.811 at C, respectively. Regarding the tibial medial surface, the valley type was observed in all cases at A, and the hill type was observed in the highest percentage of cases at B and C.Conclusions: The MTAT was approximately 45° at level A, and reproducibility was the highest among the three groups. The two points forming the valley on the tibial medial surface were bony ridges. Therefore, the medial tangent of the tibia at level A could be easily determined. Because the distal edge of the tibial tubercle exists at the surgical area and the extra-articular area, it can be a suitable intraoperative, extra-articular landmark in determining the tibial AP axis, even for revision TKA.
Broadband Terahertz Absorber Using Superimposed Graphene Quantum Dots
Authors: Deljoo Hadi , Rostami Ali
Published: February 2021

In this study, we propose and investigate numerically a broadband THz metamaterial-based absorber, which is composed of superimposed Graphene Quantum Dots. Based on this idea, a new way to engineering the absorption band is introduced. We will show that using the proposed idea, it is possible to design a THz absorber with a given bandwidth. To show the capability of the idea, we consider a three-layer structure, and the top layer is superimposed graphene disks. The middle layer is a lossless dielectric thin layer and eventually gold is placed in the bottom layer. Simulation results reveal a broadband absorption in the range of (5.86THz to 7.57THz), (5.89THz to 7.56THz), and (5.89THz to 7.58THz) while absorption values respectively are above 89%, 88.49%, and 88.32%. The dielectric material is Si3N4 in the proposed structure. Also, the broadband absorption range is 7.47THz to 9.87THz with an absorption value above 80% while the dielectric material is SiO2.
Prevalence of MDR and ESBL producing Gram-negative isolates from various clinical samples from patients visiting a tertiary care hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Shilpakar Aryatara , Ansari Mehraj , Rai Kul Raj , Rai Ganesh , Rai Shiba Kumar
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe existence of multi-drug resistance organisms, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), is on the rise and is becoming a severe problem. Knowledge of the prevalence and antibiogram profile of such isolates is essential to develop an appropriate treatment methodology. This study aimed to study the prevalence of Gram-negative isolates exhibiting ESBL at a tertiary care hospital and study their antibiogram profile.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre, Kathmandu, Nepal, from June 2018 to November 2018. A total of 770 clinical samples were collected and identified by using the conventional biochemical tests following the Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed using the Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. The screening test for ESBL producers was performed as recommended by the CLSI and the confirmatory test was performed phenotypically using the E-test.ResultsOut of 92 isolates, 84 (91.3%) isolates were multidrug resistant, and 47 (51.1%) isolates were found to be potential ESBL producers. Of these, 16 isolates were confirmed ESBL producers by the E-test. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the predominant isolates and were also the major ESBL producers. Besides polymyxin B (100% sensitive), meropenem and imipenem showed high efficacy against the ESBL producers.ConclusionMultidrug resistance was very high, however, ESBL production was low. Polymyxin B and carbapenems are the choice of drugs against ESBL producers but should be used only as the last line drugs.
The Role of Spatial Frequencies for Facial Pain Categorization
Authors: Charbonneau Isabelle , Guérette Joël , Cormier Stéphanie , Blais Caroline , Lalonde-Beaudoin Guillaume , Smith Fraser , Fiset Daniel
Published: February 2021

Studies on low-level visual information underlying pain categorization have led to inconsistent findings. Some are showing an advantage for low spatial frequency information (SFs) and others a preponderance of mid SFs. This study aims to clarify this gap in knowledge since these results have different theoretical and practical implications, such as how far away an observer can be in order to categorize pain. This study addresses this question by using two complementary methods: a data-driven method without a priori about the most useful SFs for pain recognition and a more ecological method that simulates the distance of stimuli presentation. We reveal a broad range of important SF for pain recognition starting from low to relatively high SFs and showed that performance is optimal in a short to medium distance (1.2 to 4.8 meters) but declines significantly when mid SFs are no longer available. This study reconciles previous results that show an advantage of LSFs over HSFs when using arbitrary cutoffs, but above all reveal the prominent role of mid-SFs for pain recognition across two experimental tasks.
Programmable shape-morphing microrobots for localized cancer cells treatment
Authors: Xin Chen , Jin Dongdong , Hu Yanlei , Yang Liang , Li Rui , Wang Li , Ren Zhongguo , Wang Dawei , Ji Shengyun , Hu Kai , Pan Deng , Wu Hao , Zhu Wulin , Shen Zuojun , Wang Yucai , Li Jiawen , Zhang Li , Wu Dong , Chu Jiaru
Published: February 2021

Microrobots have attracted great attentions due to their wide applications in microobjects manipulation and targeted drug delivery. To realize more complex micro/nano cargos manipulation (e.g., encapsulation and release) in biological applications, endowing microrobots with shapes adaptability with the environment is highly desirable. Here, designable shape-morphing microrobots (SMMRs) have been developed by programmatically encoding different expansion rate in a pH-responsive hydrogel. Combined with magnetic propelling, the shape-morphing microcrab (SMMC) is capable of performing targeted microparticle delivery, including gripping, transporting, and releasing through claws morphing. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, the shape-morphing microfish (SMMF) is designed to encapsulate drug (doxorubicin (DOX)) by closing mouth in phosphate buffer saline (PBS, pH~7.4) and release them by opening mouth in slightly acid solution (pH<7), which realize localized Hela cells treatment in an artificial vascular network. These SMMRs with powerful shape morphing capabilities and remote motion controllability provide new platforms for complex microcargos operation and on-demand drug release.
Lessons from the Past: Comparison of the Disease Burden of the Influenza A (H1N1) Pandemic 2009-10 and Seasonal Influenza 2010-2019 in the United States
Authors: Koziol James A
Published: February 2021

Background

Annual influenza outbreaks constitute a major public health concern, both in the United States and worldwide. Comparisons of the health burdens of outbreaks might lead to the identification of specific at-risk populations, for whom public health resources should be marshaled appropriately and equitably.
Methods

We examined the disease burden of the 2009-10 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic relating to illnesses, medical visits, hospitalizations, and mortality, compared to influenza seasons 2010 to 2019, in the United States, as compiled by the Centers for Disease Control.
Results

With regard to seasonal influenza, rates of illnesses and medical visits were highest in infants aged 0–4 years, followed by adults aged 50–64 years. Rates of hospitalizations and deaths evinced a starkly different pattern, both dominated by elderly adults aged 65 and over. Youths aged 0 to 17 years were especially adversely affected by the H1N1 pandemic relative to hospitalizations and mortality compared to seasonal influenza; but curiously the opposite pattern was observed in elderly adults (aged 65 and older).
Conclusions

The disease burden of the 2009-10 influenza A pandemic was strikingly unlike that observed in the subsequent influenza seasons 2010 to 2019, in the United States: the past did not predict the future.
A Treatment Recommender Clinical Decision Support System for Personalized Medicine: Method Development and Proof-of-concept for Drug Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Verboven Lennert , Calders Toon , Callens Steven , Black John , Maartens Gary , Dooley Kelly E. , Potgieter Samantha , Warren Robin M. , Laukens Kris , Rie Annelies Van
Published: February 2021

BackgroundIndividualised or precision medicine tailors care based on the patient’s or pathogen’s genotypic and phenotypic characteristics. An automated Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) could help translate the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics into optimal treatment and thus facilitate implementation of individualized treatment by less experienced physicians.MethodsWe developed a hybrid knowledge- and data-driven treatment recommender CDSS. Stakeholders and experts first define the knowledge base by identifying and quantifying drug and regimen features for the prototype model input. In an iterative manner, feedback from experts is harvested to generate model training datasets, machine learning methods are applied to identify complex relations and patterns in the data, and model performance is assessed by estimating the precision at one, mean reciprocal rank and mean average precision. Once the model performance no longer iteratively increases, a validation dataset is used to assess model overfitting. ResultsWe applied the novel methodology to develop a treatment recommender CDSS for individualized treatment of drug resistant tuberculosis as a proof of concept. Using input from stakeholders and three rounds of expert feedback on a dataset of 355 patients with 129 unique drug resistance profiles, the model had a 95% precision at 1 indicating that the highest ranked treatment regimen was considered appropriate by the experts in 95% of cases. Use of a validation data set however suggested substantial model overfitting, with a reduction in precision at 1 to 78%. ConclusionOur novel and flexible hybrid knowledge- and data-driven treatment recommender CDSS is a first step towards the automation of individualized treatment for personalized medicine. Further research should assess its value in fields other than drug resistant tuberculosis, develop solid statistical approaches to assess model performance, and evaluate their accuracy in real-life clinical settings.
Combined Detection of Peripheral Blood VEGF and Inflammation Biomarkers to Evaluate The Clinical Response and Prognostic Prediction of Non-Operative ESCC
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Su Xinyu , Li Xin , Zhi Xiaohui , Jiang Kan , Xia Jianhong , Li Hongliang , Yan Chen , Zhou Liqing
Published: February 2021

Objectives: An association between angiogenesis/inflammation status and tumor has been reported in various types of cancer. This study sought to assess the role of peripheral blood VEGF and some inflammation biomarkers in evaluating clinical response and prognosis in patients with non-operative esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).Methods: Peripheral blood of 143 patients with non-operative ESCC at our institute was dynamically collected at 5 time points including 1 day before radiotherapy, during radiotherapy (15f), at the end of radiotherapy, 1 month after radiotherapy, and 3 months after radiotherapy. VEGF expression in the peripheral blood was detected and related inflammation biomarkers such as GPS, CAR and CLR were counted. Logistic regression and Cox regression were implemented respectively to analyze the correlation of each predictor with clinical response and prognosis. The performance of combined testing was estimated using AUCs. Based on independent predictors, a nomogram prediction model was established to predict the probabilities of 1- and 2-year PFS of patients. The effectiveness of the nomogram model was characterized by C-index, AUC, calibration curves and DCA.Results: VEGF and CLR levels at the end of radiotherapy were independent predictors of clinical response, while VEGF and GPS levels at 3 months after radiotherapy were independent prognostic predictors. The efficacy of combined detection of VEGF and CLR is superior to the single detection in evaluating clinical response and prognosis. The nomogram showed excellent accuracy in predicting PFS.Conclusions: The combined detection of VEGF and CLR at the end of radiotherapy can be used to evaluate the clinical response of patients with non-operative ESCC, and the combined detection of VEGF and GPS 3 months after radiotherapy can be used to predict the prognosis. Implemented by nomogram model, it is expected to provide practical and reliable method to evaluate the clinical response and prognosis of patients with non-operative ESCC tool.
Effect of prophylactic interventional therapy of internal iliac artery balloon occlusion in pregnancies complicated by placenta previa and accreta: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Daijuan , Xu Jinfeng , tian Yuan , Ye Pengfei , Zhao Fumin , Liu Xinghui , Wang Xiaodong , Peng Bing
Published: February 2021

Background: Placenta previa and accreta are serious obstetric conditions that are associated with a high risk of intraoperative massive hemorrhage, the prophylactic intravascular balloon occlusion technique is increasingly used in managing uncontrolled hemorrhage in cesarean section (CS). We aim to examine the clinical effectiveness of prophylactic interventional therapy of the internal iliac artery balloon occlusion (PBOIIA) during CS in improving maternal outcomes for patients with placenta previa and accreta. Methods: A total of 420 women with placenta previa and accreta who underwent CS from January 2014 to December 2018 were included retrospectively. Patients were divided into balloon group in which patients had PBOIIA (n=248) and the control group in which patients did not have PBOIIA (n=172). Meanwhile, we performed a subgroup analysis in whether taking PTUI surgery. Information on conditions of patients and newborns, perioperative blood indicators, surgical outcomes were collected.Results: Median estimated blood loss (mEBL) was 2200mL in the balloon group and 2150mL in the control group respectively, there was no significant difference between two-groups comparison (P＞0.05). The rate of patients with hysterectomy (36.3% verus 35.5%) and amount of PRBCs transfused [(0-31.5) verus 3 (0-39)] were not different between two groups (P＞0.05). However, the total hospitalization costs (7044.4±1708.0 verus 5793.6±2263.8) and surgery costs (3074.2±404.9 verus 1829.7±485.8) in balloon group were significantly higher than those in control group (P<0.05). Subgroup analysis showed PTUI surgery had no significant differences in EBL ((P＞0.05), but it could significantly decrease hysterectomy rates (P＜0.05).Conclusions: PBOIIA has no significant effect on reducing intraoperative EBL and hysterectomy rate in patients with placenta previa and accreta, but it significantly increases the financial cost for patients. PBOIIA should not be routinely recommended to patients with placenta previa and accreta.
May the Palps Be With You – New Insights Into the Evolutionary Origin of Anterior Appendages in Terebelliformia (Annelida)
Authors: Kalke Paul , Beckers Patrick , Helm Conrad
Published: February 2021

Background: Head appendages in Annelida highly contribute to the immense morphological diversity in this lophotrochozoan taxon. Nevertheless, the evolutionary origin of annelid antennae, palps, cirri and tentacles are part of vast theories and debates that took place over decades. One of these heavily discussed groups are the Terebelliformia, which bear numerous anterior tentacles originating from different regions of the head. The question, whether these tentactes are homologous to feeding palps in other annelids or if these structures evolved convergently in terebellids and the remaining taxa, was highly debated in the past. Results: By using morphological methods including immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, Azan-stained serial sections and 3D-visualisation, we are able to shed new light and a fresh look on the old question of the evolutionary origin of the buccal tentacles and their associated head structures in Terebelliformia. Our investigations show that the brains of the ampharetid Hypania invalida and the aulophora larvae of Lanice conchilega (Terebellidae) consist of a dorsal, more prominent and a more slender, ventral brain region. Neurite bundles innervating the buccal tentacles split off from the ventral and dorsal root within the ventral brain region and thus originate from the dorsal and ventral root of the circumoesophageal connectives. Hence, the observed neurite bundles fulfil the morphological criteria for the innervating neurite bundles of feeding palps known from Paleoannelida.Conclusions: We disagree with former conclusions that buccal tentacles are part of the alimentary canal. Based on the presented data, the buccal tentacles of terebelliformian taxa can be homologized with feeding palps of other Annelida. Our comparative investigations reveal important insights into morphological changes during the evolution of anterior head appendages in Terebelliformia and Annelida in general. Nevertheless, our analyses also illustrate the gaps in knowledge and that more investigations throughout the annelid tree are necessary to explain and understand the huge diversity of annelid anterior appendages.
Does Cognitive Load Affect Eye Movements/Oculomotor Behavior in Natural Scenes?
Authors: Walter Kerri , Bex Peter
Published: February 2021

Cognitive neuroscience researchers have identified relationships between cognitive load and eye movement behavior that are consistent with oculomotor biomarkers for neurological disorders. We develop an adaptive visual search paradigm that manipulates task difficulty and examine the effect of cognitive load on oculomotor behavior in healthy young adults. Participants (N=30) free-viewed a sequence of 100 natural scenes for 10 seconds each, while their eye movements were recorded. After each image, participants completed a 4 alternative forced choice task in which they selected a target object from the previously viewed scene, among 3 distracters of the same object type but from alternate scenes. Following two correct responses, the target object was selected from an image increasingly farther back (N-back) in the image stream; following an incorrect response, N decreased by 1. N-back thus quantifies and individualizes cognitive load. The results show that response latencies increased as N-back increased, and pupil diameter increased with N-back, before decreasing at very high N-back. These findings are consistent with previous studies and confirm that this paradigm was successful in actively engaging working memory, and successfully adapts task difficulty to individual subject’s skill levels. We hypothesized that oculomotor behavior would covary with cognitive load. However, there were no significant differences between the number or duration of fixations and saccades for high/low performing subjects, or between high/low performing trials for a given subject. Similarly, oculomotor behavior did not act as a predictor of correct/incorrect responses with increasing demand from the N-back task. Similarly, the proportion of each scene viewed was not related to N-back and was not a significant predictor of accuracy. These results suggest that cognitive load can be tracked with an adaptive visual search task, but that oculomotor strategies generally do not change as a result of greater cognitive demand in healthy adults.
A Risk Prediction Model for Acute Kidney Injury in Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients during Anti-tuberculosis Treatment
Authors: Du Zhi xiang , Chang Fang , Wang Zi jian , Zhou Da ming , Li Yang , Yang Jiang hua
Published: February 2021

Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) is not a rare complication during anti-tuberculosis treatment in some pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients. We aimed to develop a risk prediction model to early recognize PTB patients at high risk of AKI during anti-TB treatment.Methods In this retrospective cohort study, clinical baseline, and laboratory test data of 315 inpatients with active PTB from January 2019 and June 2020 were screened for predictive factors. The factors were analyzed by logistic regression analysis. A nomogram was established by the results of the logistic regression analysis. The prediction model discrimination and calibration were evaluated by the concordance index (C-Index), ROC Curve, and Hosmer-Lemeshow analysis.Results 7 factors (Microalbuminuria, Hematuria, CYS-C, Albumin, eGFR, BMI and CA-125) are acquired to develop the predictive model. According to the logistic regression, Microalbuminuria (OR=3.038, 95% CI 1.168-7.904), Hematuria (OR=3.656, 95% CI 1.325-10.083), CYS-C (OR=4.416, 95% CI 2.296-8.491), CA-125 (OR=3.93, 95% CI 1.436-10.756) were risk parameter and ALB (OR=0.741, 95% CI 0.650-0.844) was protective parameter. The nomogram demonstrated a good prediction in estimating AKI. C-Index= 0.967, AUC=0.967, 95% CI (0.941-0.984) Sensitivity=91.04%, Specificity=93.95%, Hosmer-Lemeshow analysis SD=0.00054, Quantile of absolute error=0.049. Conclusion Microalbuminuria, Hematuria, Albumin reduction, elevated CYS-C, and CA125 are predictive factors for AKI in PTB patients during anti-tuberculosis treatments. The predictive nomogram based on five predictive factors is achieved a good risk prediction of AKI during anti-tuberculosis treatments.
Cu-doping SnO2-NiO p-n Heterostructure for Significant Raman Enhancement with EF > 1010: Toward Ultrasensitive VOCs Sensing
Authors: Tian Yang , Zhou Yan , Gu Qingyi , Qiu Tianzhu , He Xiao , Chen Jinquan , Qi Ruijuan , Huang Rong , Zheng Tingting
Published: February 2021

Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based on chemical mechanism (CM) has attracted tremendous attention for its great selectivity and stability. However, extremely low enhancement factor (EF) limits its practical applications for trace detection. Here, a novel sponge-like Cu-doping SnO2-NiO p-n semiconductor heterostructure (SnO2-NiOx/Cu), was first designed and created as a CM-based SERS substrate with a significant EF of 1.66 × 1010. This remarkable EF was mainly attributed to the enhanced charge-separation efficacy of p-n heterojunction and charge transfer resonance resulted from Cu doping. Moreover, the porous sponge structure enriched the probe molecules, resulting in further SERS signals magnification. By immobilizing copper phthalocyanine as an inner-reference element, SnO2-NiOx/Cu was developed as a SERS nose for selective recognition of multiple lung cancer related-volatile organic compounds (VOCs) down to ppb level. The information of VOCs was recorded in a barcode, demonstrating practical potential of a desktop SERS device for biomarker screening.
Glucose fluctuation Impact on Delayed Cerebral Infarction and 30 Days Mortality in Aneurysm SAH: A Retrospective Study in Neurocritical Care Unit
Authors: Wu Qian , Tao Liyuan , Zhong Lianmei , Liu Li-ping , Mi Donghua
Published: February 2021

Background Hyperglycemia was associated with delayed cerebral infraction (DCI) and poor outcomes in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) patients. However, the influence of glucose fluctuation on DCI and mortality in aSAH patients was still unclear. Objective This study aimed to clarify the relationship of glucose fluctuation and DCI occurrence or 30 days mortality in aSAH patients who were admitted in Neurocritical Unit (NCU). Methods A total of 341 patients with aSAH were retrospectively recruited and studied. Continuous 14-day fasting blood glucose was collected and divided into four groups: stable, unstable, well-controlled, bad-controlled. Risk factors that were associated with glucose fluctuation, DCI occurrence and 30 days mortality was analyzed.Results Many risk factors, such as Age (59.09±11.95), Diabetes history, SBP (162.91±20.85), BUN (5.50±1.80), HA1c (7.12±1.65), BGV (0.32±0.11), Hunt-Hess Score (2.59±0.97), GCS Score (10.68±4.23), Hydrocephalus in Forth ventricle, Third ventricle and Lateral ventricles, are associated with glucose fluctuation. Bad controlled group has the highest mortality (15.91%), then unstable (13.04%), well-controlled (6.45%), and stable group (1.42%). The unstable group has the highest incidence of DCI (39.13%), then bad-controlled (29.55%), the stable (17.92%) and well-controlled (17.74%). Conclusions Unstable and bad-controlled glucose during NCU admission was associated with DCI and 30 days mortality of aSAH patients.
Identifying ENSO-Related Interannual and Decadal Variability on Terrestrial Water Storage
Authors: Cheon Se-Hyeon , Hamlington Benjamin , Reager John , Chandanpurkar Hrishikesh
Published: February 2021

We apply two statistical techniques to satellite measurements to identify a relationship between terrestrial water storage (TWS) and El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). First, we modified and used the least-squares regression of a previous study using longer records. Second, we applied a cyclostationary empirical orthogonal function analysis (CSEOF). Although the CSEOF technique is distinct from the LSR in that it does not consider proxies, each method produces two modes (decadal and interannual), showing consistency with each technique in spatial pattern and its evolution amplitudes. We also compared the results obtained by the two methods for 30 watersheds, of which five watersheds were compared with previous studies. The combination of the two modes explains the total variance in most river-basins showing the role that interannual and decadal ENSO-related signals in understanding terrestrial water storage variability. The results show that the decadal mode, along with the interannual mode, also plays an important role in describing the local TWS.
Associations of Exercise Tolerance and Clinical Parameters in Japanese Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Impact of Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Tashiro Hiroki , Takahashi Koichiro , Tanaka Masahide , Sadamatsu Hironori , Kurihara Yuki , Tajiri Ryo , Takamori Ayako , Naotsuka Hiroyuki , Imaizumi Hiroki , Kimura Shinya , Sueoka-Aragane Naoko
Published: February 2021

BackgroundDecreasing exercise tolerance is one of the key features related to a poor prognosis in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is useful for evaluating exercise tolerance. The present study was performed to clarify the correlation between exercise tolerance and clinical parameters, focusing especially on the cross-sectional area (CSA) of skeletal muscle.MethodsThe present study retrospectively investigated 69 patients with COPD who underwent CPET. The correlations between oxygen uptake (⩒O2) at peak exercise and clinical parameters of COPD, including skeletal muscle area measured using single-section axial computed tomography (CT), were evaluated.ResultsThe COPD assessment test score (ρ = -0.35, p = 0.02) and the CSA of the pectoralis muscles (ρ = 0.32, p = 0.02) were weakly correlated with V̇O2 at peak exercise. In addition, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (ρ = 0.39, p = 0.0009), FEV1/forced vital capacity (ρ = 0.33, p = 0.006), and the CSA of the erector spinae muscles (ρ = 0.34, p = 0.009) were correlated with ⩒O2 at peak exercise.ConclusionsDecreased FEV1 and loss of skeletal muscles, especially anti-gravity muscles, are correlated with a low level of exercise tolerance in COPD patients.
Clinical Spectrum and Comorbidities of Dravet Syndrome in Taiwan 
Authors: Huang Chia-Hsuan , Hung Pi-Lien , Fan Pi-Chuan , Lin Kuang-Lin , Hsu Ting-Rong , Chou I-Jun , Ho Che-Sheng , Chou I-Ching , Lin Wei-Sheng , Lee Inn-Chi , Fan Hueng-Chuen , Chen Shyi-Jou , Liang Jao-Shwann , Tu Yi-Fang , Chang Tung-Ming , Wong Lee-Chin , Hung Kun-Long , Lee Wang-Tso
Published: February 2021

Dravet syndrome (DS) is a rare and devastating epilepsy syndrome, and it can affect the patients and their caregivers. However, the lack of a reliable and valid measures of caregiver impact and the characteristic pattern in Taiwan. The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics of patients with DS and caregivers’ concerns, and to establish a baseline frequency of characteristics of the disease using a cross-sectional survey in Taiwan. We recruit the caregivers of patients with DS and assessed their condition via online anonymous questionnaire. Seizure frequency decreased with age though not statistically significant. Vaccine may not influence the condition of DS. We highlighted the greatest impact on the domains that affect caregivers’ daily life, including additional household tasks, symptoms observation, further medical plan and financial problem. Caregivers may also concern about lack of independence/constant care, seizure control, speech/communication and sibling impacts/long-term care when patents are gone. The current findings highlight the significant life effects of caring for a child with DS in Taiwan, and can be used to raise the attention about the need for these families. The possible pathogenic mechanisms of these comorbidities were also discussed.
Microscopic Imbibition Characterization of Sandstone Reservoirs and Theoretical Model Optimization
Authors: Xu Xuan , Wan Yujing , Li Xizhe , Hu yong , mei qingyan , Jiao Chunyan , Guo Changmin
Published: February 2021

Traditional porous media imbibition models deviate from the actual imbibition process in oil and gas reservoirs. Experimental studies on gas-water imbibition in reservoirs were carried out to describe the dynamic profile variation process of wet phase saturation in reservoirs and to further reveal the variation of the imbibition front and the imbibition amount. Optimization and correction methods were established, and experimental verifications were performed. Studies have shown the following: (1) Unlike homogeneous porous media, the water phase imbibition process in oil and gas reservoirs is more complicated, and it is impossible for the maximum saturation of imbibition to reach 100%. (2) Contrary to the theoretical hypothesis, the imbibition of water is not piston-like, and there is a clear transition zone at the imbibition front. This transition zone is the main cause of water saturation variations in the imbibition zone; with the expansion of the imbibition zone, the influence of the transition zone on water saturation weakens. (3) Traditional theoretical models predict a positive correlation between the imbibition amount and the measurements; however, there is a large deviation in the numerical values, which must be corrected. (4) The L-W model was optimized and the parameter group fluid factor and the reservoir factor were proposed to characterize the properties of the fluid and the reservoir, respectively. These two parameters have a clear physical significance and are easy to accurately test. After experimental correction, the parameters are favourably suitable for oil and gas reservoirs.
Optical characteristics of type-II hexagonal shaped GaSb Quantum dots on GaAs synthesized using nanowire self-growth mechanism from Ga metal droplet
Authors: Baik Min , Kyhm Ji-hoon , Kang Hang-Kyu , Jeong Kwang-Sik , Kim Jong Su , Cho Mann– Ho , Song Jin Dong
Published: February 2021

We report the growth mechanism and optical characteristics of type-II band-aligned GaSb quantum dots (QDs) grown on GaAs using droplet epitaxy-driven nanowire formation mechanism in with molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Using transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images, we confirmed that the QDs, which comprise zinc-blende crystal structures with hexagonal shape, were successfully grown through the formation of a nanowire from a Ga droplet with less strain between GaAs and GaSb. Photoluminescence (PL) peaks of GaSb, which are capped by the GaAs layer, are observed at 1.11 eV, 1.26 eV, and 1.47 eV, assigned to the QDs, a wetting-like layer (WLL), and bulk GaAs, respectively, at the measurement temperature of 14 K and excitation laser power of 30 mW. The integrated PL intensity of the QDs is significantly stronger than the WLL, which indicates well-grown GaSb QDs on GaAs and the generation of an interlayer exciton, as shown in the power and temperature-dependent PL, respectively. In addition, Time-resolved PL (TRPL) data show that the GaSb QD and GaAs layer form a self-aligned type-II band alignment, and temperature-dependent PL data exhibit a high equivalent internal quantum efficiency of 15+/-0.2%.
Facial Nerve Preservation In Treatment Of Primary Parotid Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Huang Chunming , Cheng Mingliang , Luo Xiaojuan , Zhao Xiaoping
Published: February 2021

BackgroundPrimary squamous cell carcinoma rarely occurs in parotid gland. Partial, superficial or total parotidectomy as well as radical resection is performed based on patients’ conditions. For patients with symptoms of facial nerve weakness or dysfunction, facial nerve preservation is considered justifiably, whereas groundlessly if the malignancy is asymptomatic. We hereby reported a case of symptomatic primary parotid squamous cell carcinoma performed with total parotidectomy and facial nerve preservation.Case summaryWith the complaint of an asymptomatic mass in right parotid gland for five years and it grew aggressively and pricked recent months, a 46-year-old man visited the local hospital two week ago. A biopsy was performed and squamous cell carcinoma in right parotid gland was diagnosed. He was subsequently referred to Tongji hospital in Wuhan, China. Physical exam revealed a scar in the right parotid gland and impaired function of right facial nerves. An immoveable mass was touched in lower and posterior pole of right parotid gland. The mass was about 2.1*3.1 cm without clear boundary, and moderate pain was observed. No obvious enlarged lymph node was touched in right submandibular region and neck. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 1.6*2.4 cm nodular located in a diffuse suspicious mass in right parotid gland. Radical resection of the malignancy was rejected due to the inevitable facioplegia. Considering the short history of tumor aggressive behaviors, unique anatomical structure of parotid gland and absent sign of lymph node metastasis, total parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation and elective right neck dissection were performed. Finial pathological examination confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of right parotid gland. Post-operation radiotherapy was scheduled in the following month. Restoration of facial nerve function was observed in two months later, absent local recurrence and distant metastasis was observed in the three years’ follow-up.Conclusion Primary parotid squamous cell carcinoma is rarely observed in clinical and facial nerve sacrifice requires great attention in treatment. Based on carefully evaluation of patients’ conditions before treatment, individualized treatment is crucial for improvement of patients’ quality of life while completely dissection of the malignancy.
A Combination of Serum Biomarkers in Elderly Patients with Sarcopenia: A Cross-sectional Observational Study.
Authors: Ying Lin , Zhang Qin , Zhou Jian-ying , Yang Yun-mei
Published: February 2021

Background:The pathogenesis of sarcopenia in the elderly has not yet been fully understood. This study aimed to explore the relationship between sarcopenia and several serum biomarkers in elderly population. Methods:It was an observational cross‐sectional study of data collected from 70 patients (>60 years old, 61.4% men) .According to the criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS), subjects were divided into a sarcopenia group and a non-sarcopenic group.We compared age, body mass index (BMI) ,biochemical indexes, skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength (HS), gait speed (GS), skin-fold thickness, muscle thickness, bone mineral density(BMD) and IL-6,IL-10,IL-17A ,TNF-α levels between these groups.Results: Of the 70 subjects, 35 patients were diagnosed with sarcopenia according to the AWGS criteria. The number of men was higher than that of women in both groups. The patients with sarcopenia were older and had lower BMI and muscle thickness, but higher SARC-F questionnaire scores. However, the difference in BMD and skin-fold thickness between these two groups was not statistically significant. Higher IL-6, IL-17A, and TNF-α levels were observed in participants with sarcopenia (P < 0.05). Patients with sarcopenia seemed to have a lower IL-10 level. Positive associations were present between the severity of sarcopenia and IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-α levels, while there was an inverse correlation between the presence of sarcopenia and the IL-10 level. Conclusions: Our research found that in sarcopenic elderly subjects, the serum levels of several biomarkers, such as IL-6, IL-17A, and TNF-α, were higher than those in non-sarcopenic elderly persons.In summary, chronic inflammation plays an important role in the development of sarcopenia. Further studies are needed to explore the possible molecular mechanisms and discover new therapeutic targets.
Exploring the Barriers of Moral Courage from Iranian Nurses' Point of View: A Qualitative Study
Authors: rakhshan mahnaz , mousazadeh noushin , hakimi hamideh , Hosseini Fahimeh alsadat
Published: February 2021

Background: Nursing is a caring profession. Due to the nature of their, nurses need moral courage to deliver safe nursing care. Research results have reported a low level of moral courage in the majority of nurses. So the current study aimed to explore the barriers to the formation of moral courage nurses who work in hospitals.Methods: In this qualitative study, conventional content analysis was used to explain the barriers to moral courage in hospital nurses. Data was gathered using in-person, semi-structured in-depth interviews. Interviews were conducted from March to September 2020. Purposeful sampling was used and sampling was continued until data saturation was reached. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Participants were 19 nurses working in hospitals in Iran. Results: Three main themes extracted including organizational failure, deterrent individual identity, and defeated professional culture as well as six categories and eighteen sub-categories.Conclusions: The results of this study revealed the barriers to moral courage which were usually overlooked in previous quantitative studies. It appears that the elimination of these barriers is an effective step in the improvement of nurses’ competencies and delivered care. The results of this study can be helpful in the development of management programs to identify the factors affecting nurses' moral courage and how to improve it.
Patterns of disease detection using 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT imaging in men with biochemical recurrence post prostatectomy being considered for salvage radiotherapy: a prospective trial
Authors: Koschel Samantha , Taubman Kim , Sutherland Tom , Yap Kelvin , Chao Michael , Guerrieri Mario , Benson Angela , Starmans Michelle , Byrne Graeme , Ong Grace , Macleod Craig , Foo Marcus , Wong Lih Ming , Gyomber Dennis , Ng Michael
Published: February 2021

Purpose Prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT is increasingly used in men with biochemical recurrence post-prostatectomy to detect local recurrence and metastatic disease at low PSA levels. The aim of this study was to assess patterns of disease detection, predictive factors and safety using 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT versus diagnostic CT in men being considered for salvage radiotherapy with biochemical recurrence post-prostatectomy.Methods We conducted a prospective trial recruiting 100 patients with biochemical failure post-prostatectomy (PSA 0.2-2.0ng/mL) in men referred for salvage radiotherapy from August 2018 to July 2020. All patients underwent a PSMA PET/CT using the 18F-DCFPyL tracer and a diagnostic CT. The detection rates of 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT vs diagnostic CT were compared and patterns of disease are reported. Clinical patient and tumour characteristics were analysed for predictive utility. Thirty-day post-scan safety is reported.Results Of 100 patients recruited, 98 were suitable for analysis with a median PSA of 0.32ng/mL. 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT was positive or equivocal in 52% compared to 19.6% for diagnostic CT. Local recurrence was detected on 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT in 29.2%, nodal disease was seen in 29.6% and bony metastases in 7.1%. Both ISUP grade group (p = 0.003) and pre-scan PSA (p = 0.061) were significant predictors of 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT positivity, and logistic regression generated probabilities combining the two showed improved prediction rates. No significant safety events were reported post 18F-DCFPyL administration.Conclusions 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT increases detection of disease in men with biochemical recurrence post-prostatectomy compared to diagnostic CT. Men being considered for salvage radiotherapy with a PSA > 0.2ng/mL should be considered for 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT scan.Clinical Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry Number: ACTRN12618001530213. Registration date 13.9.2018 http://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=375932&isReview=true
The Prevailing O Serogroups Among the Serologically Differentiated Clinical Proteus Spp. Strains in Poland
Authors: Drzewiecka Dominika , Palusiak Agata , Siwińska Małgorzata , Zabłotni Agnieszka
Published: February 2021

In the years 2006-2011, 617 Proteus spp. strains isolated mostly from urine and wounds or other clinical sources from infected individuals were collected in Łódź, Poland. P. mirabilis species was dominating (86.9%), followed by P. genomospecies, P. vulgaris , and P. penneri . Ninety four per cent strains were recognized as S (smooth) forms. P. mirabilis exhibited the most intensive swarming growth. Serological studies (involving ELISA – enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blotting using native and adsorbed rabbit antisera) enabled classification of 80% S isolates into respective Proteus O serogroups among the 83 ones, described so far. The remaining strains seemed to be serologically unique. Detailed serological analysis confirmed that the recently described in Poland O78 serogroup is the most widespread. Also, 14 other serogroups have been found to predominate, being represented by ten or more strains. No unique structural feature of the prevalent O serotypes has been indicated. The observed big serological variety may suggest a low rate of Proteus spp. strains’ transmission between patients or rapid changes in their lipopolysaccharides. However, the prevalence of some O serogroups indicates that particular serotypes may be in some ways beneficial to the strains producing these kinds of O antigen.
Effects of grain size and temperature, on the output voltage generation of Energy harvester using ZnO nanowires (oxidized with O2).
Authors: Ahmad Mansoor , Ahmad M.K. , Nafarizal N. , Soon C.F. , Ismail N.M.A.N , Suriani A.B. , Mohamed A. , Mamat M.H.
Published: February 2021

Here, we report high output voltage generation via oxidized ZnO nanowires. A thorough study has been carried out to observe the behavior of ZnO nanowires under reduced grain size and high temperature conditions. Study has revealed that piezoelectric output voltage generated by ZnO based VING (vertically integrated nanowire generator) has been gradually increased, as the diameter of nanowires is decreased. Secondly, it has also been observed that maximum peak voltage has been further enhanced, if nanowires are oxidized at high temperature. ZnO nanowires ̴ 200 nm have produced maximum peak voltage 2.283 V at room temperature and if oxidized at 200o C then output voltage has been further raised to 2.638 V Having output power density 365.7 mW/cm2, similarly ̴ 100 nm ZnO nanowires have produced maximum voltage of 2.598 V At room temperature and at 200o C the value is elevated to 2.835 V and ̴ 50 nm ZnO nanowires have generated 3.38 V at room temperature and when oxidized at 200o C voltage has been raised to 3.465 V with power density of 511.3 mW/cm2. The values have been significantly improved by our earlier reported values.
Geology and Geotechnical Investigations of the Anambra Basin, Southeastern Nigeria: Implication for Gully Erosion Hazards
Authors: Ocheli Azuka , Ogbe Ovie Benjamin , Aigbadon Godwin Okumagbe
Published: February 2021

BackgroundGeologic and geotechnical conditions of soils where Nanka and Ajali Formations outcropped in Anambra Basin, Southeastern Nigeria were investigated and accessed. This was done using detailed mapping and mechanical soil laboratory tests to unravel the genesis and continued expansion of gully erosion in the study areas. ResultsField study revealed that gully erosions are more pronounced in the study area with poor vegetation cover and a high degree of slope steepness. Grain size analysis revealed that the soils of the Nanka Formation have an average sand content value of 90.90% (sandy) and silt content value of 3.0% (low fine portions). The plasticity index of the fine portions indicates that the soils are weak plastic, with a mean value of 5.29%. The soils have an average cohesion value of 0.30kg/cm2 indicating a very weak cohesion. The soils are highly permeable; with an average value of 2.67x10-3 cm/sec. The compaction test further revealed that the soils are loosely compacted. The soils for the Ajali Formation have an average sand content value of 95.10% (sandy) and silt content value of 1.43% (low fine portions). The plasticity index of the fine portions indicates that the soils are weak plastic, with a mean value of 2.70%. The soils have an average cohesion value of 0.30kg/cm2 indicating a very weak cohesion. The soils are highly permeable; with an average value of 2.70x10-3 cm/sec. The compaction test revealed that the soils are loosely compacted.ConclusionsAfter field surveys and laboratory analyses, it was found that the gully erosions have been developing respectively on steep slopes and non-vegetated areas, and their genesis facilitated by the cohesionless and very permeable nature of the sandy formations. Following those key findings, it was proposed many practices (agronomic and engineering mainly) that can help mitigate the formations as well as the expansion of this very damaging hazard type. The potential implications of these gully erosion include damaging of buildings, residential houses, bridges and roads, loss of farmland and vegetation, isolation of villages and towns, increased migration of inhabitants as well as degradation of agricultural fertile land.