bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation and Validation of the Spanish Version of the Everyday Cognition Battery Scale for Assessing Everyday Cognition in Older Adults
Authors: Jimenez Raquel , Fernandez Eduardo Jose , Sanchez Celia , Cruz Juan Jesus , Rihuete Maria Isabel
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Ageing entails a series of neuroanatomical and neurophysiological changes in some cognitive processes that directly affect the daily life and autonomy of a person. We believe it is necessary to have tools that assess the cognitive functions that are essential for carrying out daily activities in an independent manner. The aim of this study was to translate the Everyday Cognition Battery (ECB) scale into Spanish, adapt it to the sociocultural context of Spain, and validate it by testing the psychometric properties, i.e., the reliability and validity of the translated version.Methods: The translation and adaptation of the ECB into Spanish was carried out following the method recommended by Beaton et al., the process concluding with a pilot test to ensure that subjects were able to understand the scale correctly. Between March and October 2019, the study population voluntarily completed the translated version of each of the four subscales that make up the battery of tests. The translated version was validated by analysing its psychometric properties, using reliability or internal consistency tests assessed with Cronbach's alpha coefficient and validity tests analysed using correlation tables and Spearman's correlation coefficient. The scale considered to represent the gold standard in the assessment of cognition was the Rapid Assessment of Cognitive Functions (RACF), and to assess Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) this was the Lawton and Brody Index. Results: The total study population included 226 subjects, of which 52 participants were excluded, resulting in a study sample size of 174 older adults. The recognition, inductive reasoning and computation span tests showed good reliability (Cronbach's alpha coefficient of >0.827, >0.836, and >0.823, respectively), while the knowledge test showed questionable reliability with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of >0.615. The validity analysis demonstrated that all the combinations of correlations of the different scales were significantly and positively related to one another. Conclusions: The Spanish version of the ECB tool is socially and culturally equivalent to the original version, and both its validity and reliability for assessing everyday cognition in older adults have been demonstrated.
Viral biogeography of gastrointestinal tract and parenchymal organs in two representative species of mammals
Authors: Shkoporov Andrey , Stockdale Stephen , Lavelle Aonghus , Kondova Ivanela , Hueston Cara , Upadrasta Aditya , Khokhlova Ekaterina , Kamp Imme van der , Ouwerling Boudewijn , Draper Lorraine , Langermans Jan , Ross R Paul , Hill Colin
Published: September 2021

In this study we report the first comprehensive metagenomic analysis of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic virome occupying luminal and mucosa-associated habitats along the entire length of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in two animal species, the domestic pig and rhesus macaque.
The highest loads and diversity of bacteriophages are found in the lumen of the large intestine in both mammals. Mucosal samples contain much lower viral loads but a higher proportion of eukaryotic viruses. Parenchymal organs contained significant amounts of bacteriophages of gut origin, in addition to some eukaryotic viruses.
GIT virome composition is both region- and species-specific with a strong separation between upper and lower gut. Nonetheless, certain viral and phage species are found ubiquitously from the oral cavity to the distal colon. Correlations between individual phages and their potential microbial hosts in the GIT are overwhelmingly positive, which confirms earlier concepts of the temperate-like life cycles of the majority of gut phages and a prevalence of the “piggyback-the-winner” ecological dynamics.
When Does Early Palliative Care Influence Aggressive Care At The End of Life?
Authors: Davis Mellar P , vanenkevort Erin , Elder Alexander , Young Amanda , Ordonez Irina Correa , Wojtowicz Mark , Ellison Halle , Fernandez Carlos , Mehta Zankhana , Behm Bertrand , Digwood Glen , Panikkar Rajiv
Published: September 2021

Background
Early palliative care improves patient quality of life and influences cancer care. The time frame of early has not been established. Eight quality measures reflect aggressive care at the end of life. We retrospectively reviewed patients who died with cancer between January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2019, and compared the timing of palliative care consultation, advance directives (AD), and home palliative care with aggressive care at the end of life (ACEOL).
Methods
Patients without ACEOL indicators were compared to patients with one or more than one indicator of ACEOL. The proportion of patients who received palliative care, completed AD, and the timing of palliative care and AD (less than 30 days, 60–90 days, and greater than 90 days prior to death) was compared for patients who had ACEOL versus those who did not. Chi-square analysis was used for categorical data, one-way ANOVA for continuous variables, and odds ratio (OR) with confidence intervals (CI) was reported as a measure of effect size. A p-value </= 0.05 was considered significant.
Results
1727 patients died, 46% were female, and the mean age was 69 (SD 11.91). 71% had a palliative care consult, 26% completed AD, 888 (51.4%) had at least one indicator of ACEOL. AD completed at any time reduced ACEOL (OR 0.80, 95%CI 0.64–0.99). Palliative care was associated with a greater risk of ACEOL at 30 days (OR 5.32, 95% CI 3.94–7.18) and between 30 and 90 days (OR 1.39,95% CI 1.07–1.80), but dramatically reduced ACEOL at > 90 days (OR 0.46,95% CI 0.38–0.57).The most common indicator of ACEOL was new chemotherapy within 30 days of death, in 571 of 888 (64%) of patients experiencing ACEOL.
Discussion
AD reduce ACEOL and often reflect goals of care and end-of-life discussions in the transition of care away from tumor directed therapy. Palliative care paradoxically in our experience is associated with greater ACEOL in the first 90 days since consultation occurs late in the course of illness and the focus is on crisis management in patients who are frequently utilizing the health care system. If palliative care consultation occurs greater than 90 days before death, there is the opportunity for both aggressive symptom management and end of life discussions which may influence aggressive care at the end of life.
Conclusions
An initial palliative care consult greater than 90 days before death and ADs completed at any time during the disease trajectory significantly impacts care at the end of life. Both should become quality metrics for good cancer care.
Outcomes of Four-Point Suture Fixated And Two-Point Sutureless Posterior Chamber IOLs Combined With Pars Plana Vitrectomy
Authors: Zyablitskaya Mariya , Hong Estee , Chen Royce W.S. , Chang Stanley , Suh Leejee H.
Published: September 2021

Background: While each scleral fixation method has its own advantages, there is a lack of strong evidence to suggest a superior technique. Advances in cataract surgery expand patient eligibility for successful cataract extraction, benefitting a growing population of pseudophakic patients. However, implantation of secondary intraocular lens (IOL) with compromised anterior or posterior capsule is a more challenging task. Each method of scleral fixation has its own advantages and none of them has strong evidence to be superior. This paper describes postsurgical outcomes of two scleral intraocular(IOL) fixation techniques combined with pars plana vitrectomy(PPV) from a single tertiary referral eye center.Methods: Patients underwent PPV and IOL implantation with either four-point sutured scleral fixation (Akreos AO60(AK); n=24) or two-point sutureless flanged intrascleral fixation (CT Lucia(CTL); n=7). Reports include IOL and sclerotomy placement, fixation techniques, and IOL model. Results: 31 eyes of 30 patients were analyzed. Average change in vision from baseline measurement was LogMAR -0.68±0.66 and -0.90 ±0.63 for AK and CTL groups, respectively. Average postoperative refractive error was -0.3 ±1.03 D (AK) and 0.4 ±0.60 D (CTL). No opacification cases of Akreos lens were found in this study with the longest follow up of 53 months.Conclusions: Both methods of implantation (sutured and sutureless) could provide good visual and refractive outcomes. Minimal complication rates were reported despite including patients with multiple comorbidities, making both techniques an attractive choice for secondary IOL implantation.
Tmem45b is essential for inflammation and tissue injury-induced persistent mechanical hyperalgesia
Authors: Tanioku Tadashi , Nishibata Masayoshi , Tokinaga Yasuyuki , Konno Kohtarou , Watanabe Masahiko , Hemmi Hiroaki , Ohta Yuri , Kaisho Tsuneyasu , Kawamata Tomoyuki
Published: September 2021

Persistent mechanical hyperalgesia, associated with peripheral inflammation and tissue injury, impairs patient’s quality of life and daily activity. However, its molecular mechanism and treatment are yet to be deciphered. Herein, we report that Tmeme45b is expressed in a subset of unmyelinated primary sensory neurons and plays an essential role in inflammation and tissue injury-induced mechanical hyperalgesia. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanisms and the treatment of mechanical hyperalgesia.
Evaluation of Ethylene Oxide, Gamma Radiation, Dry Heat and Autoclave Sterilization Processes on Extracellular Matrix of Biomaterial Dental Scaffolds
Authors: Iwamoto Luciana , Duailibi Monica , Iwamoto Gerson , Oliveira Debora , Duailibi Silvio
Published: September 2021

Scaffolds to receive stem cells are a promising perspective of tissue regeneration research, and one of the most effective solutions to rebuild organs. In the near future will be possible to reconstruct a natural tooth using stems cells, but to avoid an immune-defensive response, sterilize the scaffold is not only desired but also essential to succeed. A previous study from the group, confirmed the insertion of stem cells extracted from rat’s natural teeth, and implanted into the alveolar bone, could differentiate themselves in dental cells, but the scaffold’s chemistry, geometry, density, morphology, adherence, biocompatibility and mechanical properties remained an issue. This study intended to produce a completely sterilized dental scaffold with preserved extracellular matrix. Sixty samples were collected, kept in formaldehyde, submitted to demineralization and decellularization processes and sterilized using four different methods: dry heating; autoclave; ethylene-oxide and gamma-radiation. They were characterized through colorimeter scale, optical images, radiography, micro-hardness, XRD, EDS, XRF, SEM and sterility test. The results evidenced the decellularization alone is not enough to eliminate micro-organisms from dental scaffolds, and the four sterilization methods were fully effective with preservation of ECM. The dry heat and autoclave could be detached from others because of cost-benefit, but ethylene oxide or gamma radiation should not be discarded mainly if it is considered other possible applications.
Clinical Spectrum of Adult-Onset Still’s Disease in Patients Presenting At A Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan: A 16-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Riaz Mehmood , Arshad Ainan , Baqir Syed Mujtaba , Isra Ahmed
Published: September 2021

Objectives
Adult-onset Still’s Disease (AOSD) is a rare systemic auto-inflammatory disorder with a low incidence rate and limited data. This study aims to lay down the clinical and laboratory spectrum, associated complications, and outcomes of patients who presented to a tertiary care center – in order to identify any regional variation in the presentation and enable physicians to develop a thought process in patients without characteristic features.
Materials and Methods
We reviewed the records of patients from January 2005 - February 2021 who presented with symptoms consistent with AOSD, using the Yamaguchi criteria. The patients’ clinical symptoms, laboratory values, therapeutic management, complications, and outcomes were analysed. Descriptive statistics were produced to illustrate the pattern of the disease.
Results
The mean age of patients was 37.7 years, with a male to female ratio of 1:1. Fever and arthralgia was seen in 90%, a salmon-coloured rash in 60%, and leukocytosis in 80%. 30% presented with a sore throat and recent lymphadenopathy, 40% with hepatomegaly and/or splenomegaly on imaging, 100% with abnormal liver function tests. Steroids were used as first-line treatment. Most patients did not present with common, previously reported, complications of AOSD.
Conclusions
The clinical aspects in this study are, to a large part, comparable to those seen in other parts of the world. Thus, a comprehensive analysis of AOSD would enable physicians to broaden their minds and keep it as a top differential in atypical presentations – enhancing patient care by preventing a delay in diagnosis and initiation of prompt management.
Plasma TIMP-1 is a Useful Tool for Monitoring 24 Months Liver Fibrosis Improvement After Anti-HCV /DAA Therapy in HCV/HIV Mono/Coinfection
Authors: Pérez-Is Laura , Collazos Julio , Fuente Belén , Morano Luis , Rivas-Carmenado Maria , Rodriguez Manuel , Romero-Favela Adolfo , Fonseca–González Galilea de Jesús , Melón Santiago , Valle-Garay Eulalia , Asensi Víctor
Published: September 2021

Long term liver fibrosis (LF) changes and their best -monitoring non-invasive tools after effective anti-HCV DAA therapy are little- known. Matrix-metalloproteases (MMPs) and their tissue-inhibitors (TIMPs) are pivotal in liver inflammation repair .Their plasma levels might assess long term LF changes after therapy. Overall 374 HCV-infected adult patients, 214 HCV-HIV coinfected, were followed-up for 24 months after starting DAA. LF was assessed by transient elastometry (TE), biochemical indexes (APRI, Forns, FIB-4) and, in 61 individuals, by MMPs and TIMP-1 plasma levels. Several MMPs and TIMP-1 SNPs were genotyped in 319 patients.TE was better than biochemical indexes for early and long-term LF monitoring. MMPs-2,-8,-9 and-TIMP-1 levels and TE displayed parallel decreasing curves although only TIMP-1 correlated with TE (P=0.006) and biochemical indexes (P<0.02). HCV monoinfected had significantly higher baseline LF and TIMP-1 plasma levels, but lower MMPs levels than coinfected patients or between different DAA regimens. Only the MMP-2 (-1306 C/T) variant TT genotype associated with higher degrees of fibrosis LF regression extends 24 months after therapy. TE and TIMP1 are the most reliable LF-monitoring tools. LF courses were similar in mono- and coinfected patients, DAA regimens type did not influence fibrosis course.
Development of FRET-Based Indicators For Visualizing Homophilic Trans Interaction of A Clustered Protocadherin
Authors: Kanadome Takashi , Hoshino Natsumi , Nagai Takeharu , Matsuda Tomoki , Yagi Takeshi
Published: September 2021

Clustered protocadherins (Pcdhs), which are cell adhesion molecules, play a fundamental role in self-recognition and non-self-discrimination by conferring diversity on the cell surface. Although systematic cell-based aggregation assays provide information regarding the binding properties of Pcdhs, direct visualization of Pcdh trans interactions across cells remains challenging. Here, we present Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based indicators for directly visualizing Pcdh trans interactions. We developed the indicators by individually inserting FRET donor and acceptor fluorescent proteins (FPs) into the ectodomain of Pcdh molecules. They enabled successful visualization of specific trans interactions of Pcdh and revealed that the Pcdh trans interaction is highly sensitive to changes in extracellular Ca2+ levels. We expect that FRET-based indicators for visualizing Pcdh trans interactions will provide a new approach for investigating the roles of Pcdh in self-recognition and non-self-discrimination processes.
Shaking Table Test On Dynamic Response of Bridge Pile Foundation Near Fault Under Strong Earthquake
Authors: Zhang Cong , Feng Zhong Ju , Kong Yuan Yuan , Guan Yun Hui , Dong Yun Xiu , Chen Hui Yun
Published: September 2021

Taking Puqian bridge as the prototype, a 1:30-scale pile-soil-fault interaction model was established. Through the shaking table test, the difference of dynamic response of pile foundation on both sides of fault under 0.15~0.60g ground motion intensity was studied. The pile acceleration, pile top relative displacement, and pile bending moment on both sides of the fault are compared respectively. Research results showed that under the action of a strong earthquake, the pile foundation on the hanging wall was greatly affected by ground motion, and “the hanging wall effect” was significant. As the ground motion intensity increased, the “hanging wall effect” of the pile foundation was more obvious. Combined with the fundamental frequency response and the test phenomenon, when ground motions intensity was strong, cracks appeared near the joint of pile top and platform, soil interface, and bedrock surface. When building a bridge pile foundation near the fault, the seismic design of the pile foundation on the hanging wall of the fault is mainly considered.
Clinical and Imaging Features of The Ovarian Cystadenofibroma or Adenofibroma and Their Correlation With Pathological Findings
Authors: liu li , Wang Jie , Li Qingshu , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhao Ling , Wang Haiyan , Zhou Hongliang , Liu Lili , Li Qi , Li Yongmei
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To improve the accuracy of the preoperative diagnosis of ovarian cystadenofibroma (CAF) or adenofibroma (AF).
Methods

Clinical symptoms, laboratory results, imaging features, and pathological results of 11 patients with 11 histologically proven ovarian CAF/AF were reviewed retrospectively. The computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of the tumor including location, number, size, internal characteristics, CT density or MRI signal intensity, enhancement performance, lymphadenopathy, and amount of ascites were comprehensively evaluated.
Results

With regard to the clinical findings, results of serum cancer antigen 125 (CA125), cancer antigen 199 (CA199), and other laboratory tests were normal in most cases (81.8%, 9/11). The imaging features of the 11 lesions were as follows: unilateral occurrence, well-defined boundary, round or roundish, unilocular (63.6%, 7/11), cystic mass (81.8%, 9/11), multilocular (27.3%, 3/11), black sponge sign (18.2%, 2/11), carpet sign (81.8%, 9/11), residual ovary sign (45.5%, 5/11), papillary nodule clusters (45.5%, 5/11), and small vesicle with an acute angle to the inner cyst wall (18.2%, 2/11). The signal intensity of the solid component was isointense or hypointense on T2-weighted imaging and hypo intense on diffusion-weighted imaging. The CT value of the lesions ranged from 21 Hounsfield units (Hu) to 45 Hu. A slight to moderate enhancement degree occurred in more than half of the lesions (54.5%, 6/11). No or a small amount of ascites was present in these cases. Histologic examination revealed SCAF (45.5%, 5/11), SAF (27.3%, 3/11), and borderline CAF/AF (27.3%, 3/11). No necrosis, hemorrhage, or calcification was observed in any of these masses.
Conclusion

Ovarian CAF/AF usually mimics malignancy, demonstrating a cystic mass combined with solid component on CT or MR images. The integrity of case data including laboratory results and imaging features can help radiologists make an accurate preoperative diagnosis. No or a small amount of ascites may narrow the differential diagnosis.
Modal Gain Characteristics of A Two-section InGaAs/GaAs Double Quantum Well Passively Mode-locked Laser with Asymmetric Waveguide
Authors: Zhongliang Qiao , Li Xiang , Sia Brian , Wang Wanjun , Wang Hong , Li Zaijin , Zhao Zhibin , Li Lin , Gao Xin , Bo Baoxue , Qu Yi , Liu Guojin , Chongyang Liu
Published: September 2021

Monolithic two-section InGaAs/GaAs double quantum well (DQW) passively mode-locked lasers (MLLs) with asymmetric waveguide, concluding the layers of P-doped AlGaAs waveguide and no-doped InGaAsP waveguide, emitting at ∼1.06µm, with a fundamental repetition rate at ∼19.56GHz have been demonstrated. Modal gain characteristics, such as a gain bandwidth and a gain peak wavelength of the MLL, as a function of the saturable absorber (SA) bias voltage (Va) as well as the injection current of gain section (Ig), were investigated by the Hakki-Paoli method. With the increase of Va, the lasing wavelength and net modal gain peak of the MLL both exhibited red-shifts to longer wavelength significantly, while the modal gain bandwidth was compressed. Both the net modal gain bandwidth and gain peak of the MLL followed a polynomial distribution versus the reverse bias at the absorber section. In addition, for the first time, it was found that Va had an obvious effect on the differential gain of the MLL.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells-derived Exosomal miR-148a-3p Alleviates Atrial Fibrosis and Vulnerability to Atrial Fibrillation Through Targeting ALK5/Smad2 Axis
Authors: Zhang Daoliang , Wang Qian , Liu Jie , Zou Guangchen , Jiang Shili , Liu Wenbo , Han Huirong , Zhang Liye , Zhang Rui , Sun Qijuan
Published: September 2021

Aims: Atrial fibrosis is the hallmark of atrial fibrillation (AF). Accumulating evidence have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can alleviate fibrosis in diverse organs. However, the role of MSCs-derived exosome (MSCs-Exo) in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrosis and vulnerability to AF was unknown.Methods: Exosomes were isolated from cultured MSCs. Transmission electron microscopy and western blot were used to examine the purity of MSCs-Exo. 8-week-old BALB/c mice were randomized into sham group, angiotensin-II (Ang-II) group, and Ang-II+MSCs-Exo group. A mini-pump was implanted for subcutaneous infusion of Ang-II for 4 weeks to induce atrial fibrosis. In the Ang-II+MSCs-Exo group, 300μg/150μl MSCs-Exo were injected into tail veins twice a week after establishing the animal model. Echocardiography was used to evaluate heart structure and function. Intracardiac electric stimuli was used to analyze AF inducibility. Masson staining was used to evaluate the degree of atrial fibrosis. Ang-II-induced proliferation, migration, phenotypic switching and the capacity of extracellular matrix synthesis were examined after MSCs-Exo preconditioning. We reanalyzed two public expression datasets of MSCs-Exo and selected a few most highly expressed microRNAs. After literature search and experimental validation, we narrowed down our candidates to miR-148a-3p. Then, we predicted the potential target genes of miR-148a-3p, and determined ALK5 and SMAD2 as the targets of miR-148a-3p. Western blot was used to quantify Ang-II-induced protein expressions of TGF-β1/ALK5/SMAD2 pathway in fibroblasts after exposure to miR-148a-3p-rich MSCs-Exo.Results: Compared with mice in Ang-II group, mice in Ang-II+MSCs-Exo group showed less atrial enlargement, atrial fibrosis, a lower AF inducibility and AF duration. Ang-II-induced proliferation, migration, phenotypic switching, and capacity of extracellular matrix synthesis were ameliorated in fibroblasts after co-incubation with MSCs-Exo. After exposure to miR-148a-3p inhibitor, MSCs derived Exosomes (MSCs-148a-3p inhibitor-Exo) can significantly reverse above phenomenon. As the targets of miR-148a-3p, the expressions of ALK5 and Smad2 were lower in Ang-II+MSCs-Exo group compared with the Ang-II group. Furthermore, MSCs-Exo treatment inhibited Ang-II-induced activation of TGF-β1/ALK5/Smad2 pathway, and MSCs-148a-3p inhibitor -Exo reverse above phenomenon.Conclusions: MSCs-Exo can alleviate Ang-II induced atrial fibrosis and AF vulnerability through transferring miRNA-148a-3p to inhibit the activation of TGF-β1/ALK5/Smad2 pathway, providing a new avenue to AF treatment.
Biodegradable Mesoporous Manganese Carbonate Nanocomposites for LED Light-Driven Cancer Therapy via Enhancing Photodynamic Therapy and Attenuating Survivin Expression
Authors: Li Lihua , Chen Lingling , Huang Ling , Ye Xiangling , Lin Zefeng , Wei Xiaoming , Yang Xianfeng , Yang Zhongmin
Published: September 2021

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most daunting diseases, and low toxicity and efficient approaches are in urgent demand. Herein, we developed degradable mesoporous manganese carbonate nanocubes (MnCO3 NCs), incorporated with survivin shRNA-expressing plasmid DNA (iSur-pDNA) and riboflavin (Rf), namely MRp NCs, for synergistic TNBC therapy. The MnCO3, itself, could generate O2 and CO2 under H2O2 and thus improve the hypoxia and acidic tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, the MnCO3 NCs exhibited high Rf loading capacity and iSur-pDNA delivery ability after polyethyleneimine modification. Specifically, MRp NCs decompose in TME, meanwhile they deprived the endogenous expression of survivin gene and significantly amplified the generation of reactive oxygen species after exposure to LED light, resulting in serious tumor destruction. The multifunctional MRp NCs with LED light-driven characters are able to provide a high efficiency, low toxicity and promising strategy for TNBC therapy.
Validation of Reference Genes for Quantitative Real-time PCR in Diaphanosoma Celebensis: For Chemical Exposure Conditions and Different Ages
Authors: Lee Young-Mi , In Soyeon , Kim Se-Joo , Won Eun-Ji , Cho Hayoung , Kim Ryeo-Ok
Published: September 2021

Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), a primary approach for evaluating gene expression, requires an appropriate normalization strategy to rule out variations in gene expression among samples. The best option is to use a reference gene whose expression level is stable across various experimental conditions to compare the mRNA levels of a target gene. However, there is limited information on how the reference gene is differentially expressed at different ages (growth) in small invertebrates with notable changes such as molting. In this study, expression profiles of nine candidate reference genes from the brackish water flea, Diaphanosoma celebensis, were evaluated under diverse exposure to toxicants and according to growth. As a result, four different algorithms showed similar stabilities of genes for chemical exposures in the case of limited conditions using the same developmental stage (e.g., adult), while the results according to age showed a significantly different pattern in suite of candidate reference genes. This affected the results of genes EcRA and GST, which are involved in development and detoxification mechanisms, respectively. Our finding is the first step towards establishing a standardized real-time qRT-PCR analysis of this environmentally important invertebrate that has potential for aquatic ecotoxicology, particularly in estuarine environments.
The Evaluation of Conventional MRI, Diffusion Tensor Imaging, and Arterial Spin Labeling Imaging for Early Brain Damage Caused by Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Wu Zhiwei , Chang Yue , Song Ziyang , Ma Mengya , Liu Yuanqing , Tian Weizhong , Zhang Yi , Dai Hui
Published: September 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the early bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction (BIND) by T1 weighted imaging (T1WI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and arterial spin labeling (ASL).Methods: Forty newborns: hyperbilirubinemia with BIND (BIND group, n=13), hyperbilirubinemia without BIND (non-BIND group, n=17), and healthy newborns (HC group, n=10). The MRI parameters of globus pallidus were measured, including the T1WI signal values from conventional MRI, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), the fractional anisotropy (FA), relative anisotropy (RA) and volume ratio (VR) value from DTI, and the relative cerebral blood flow (rCBF) value from ASL. The group differences were analyzed by ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. The diagnosis efficiencies were assessed by the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). The correlation between those parameters and serum bilirubin level was evaluated by Pearson’s correlation coefficient.Results: 1）The mean signal values of globus pallidus on T1WI and DTI parameters were significantly different among the groups (p < 0.05). The difference in T1WI between the non-BIND group and the BIND group was not significant (p >0.05). The rCBF of globus pallidus was not significantly different among the three groups (p > 0.05). 2) The T1WI, FA, and RA values were positively while the VR value was negatively correlated with serum bilirubin level (r =0.763, 0.585, 0.586, -0.544 respectively, p < 0.05). The ADC value and rCBF were not correlated with serum bilirubin (r = -0.050, -0.275 respectively, p > 0.05). 3) The area under curve (AUC) of T1WI, FA, RA, VR was 0.953, 0.897, 0.897, 0.860 respectively. And the AUC of the diagnosis method, combined T1WI, FA, RA and VR, was 0.987.Conclusion: The index, combined T1WI and DTI parameters, was important for diagnosing early hyperbilirubinemia brain injury. ASL might not have function on diagnosing early hyperbilirubinemia brain injure.
First-Principles Predictions on Structural Stability, Electronic, Optical, and Thermal Properties of Semiconductors GaNxAs1-x: Materials for Futuristic Optoelectronic Energy Devices
Authors: Gagui Souheyla , Ghemid Sebti , Meradji Hocine , Zaidi Beddiaf , Haq Bakhtiar Ul , Ahmed Rashid , Hadjoudja Bouzid , Chouial Baghdadi
Published: September 2021

The knowledge of the physical properties of a material is crucial to realize its practical technological applications.Here, a study related to phase stability, transition pressure, electronic, optical,and thermal propertiesof GaAs, GaN, as well as their mixed ternary alloys GaN0.25As0.75, GaN0.5As0.5, andGaN0.75As0.25 is presented. The study is performed by employing "full-potential linearized augmented-plane-wave plus local-orbital, (FP-L(APW+lo))approach framed within density functional theory (DFT)" and recognized within WIEN2k computational code. The results of the phase stability show that the GaNxAs1-x alloys are stable for all compositions in the zinc blendephase (B3),except for x=1,, whereas the structure corresponding to x=1 composition is found to be more stable inthe wurtzite (B4) phase. The physicalproperties of the more stable phases corresponding to each composition are explored. The pressure-induced phase transition is also investigatedcorresponding to each composition. The electronic and optical properties are investigated using the Tran-Blahamodified Becke-Johnson (mBJ) potential approach. To explore the thermal properties, the "quasi-harmonic Debye model" approach is employed. Our calculated results of the absorption coefficients and optical band gap show that these alloys could be appropriate candidates for applications in solar cell and optoelectronic devices.
Near-atomic size highly positive silver nanoparticles are bactericidal targeting cell wall and adherent fimbriae expression
Authors: Pokhrel Lok , Jacobs Zachary , Dikin Dmitriy , Akula Shaw
Published: September 2021

To tackle growing antibiotic resistance (AR) and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), novel antimicrobials are warranted that are effective against HAIs and safer for human use. We hypothesize that near-atomic size positively charged silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) could specifically target bacterial cell wall and adherent fimbriae expression, serving as the next generation antimicrobial agent. Herein we show positively charged, 5 nm NH2–AgNPs were bactericidal; negatively charged, 45 nm Citrate–AgNPs were nontoxic; and Ag+ ions were bacteriostatic forming honeycomb-like potentially resistant phenotype, at 10µg Ag/mL in E. coli dh5a. Further, adherent fimbriae were expressed with Citrate–AgNPs, whereas NH2–AgNPs (0.5–10µg/mL) or Ag+ ions (10µg/mL) inhibited fimbriae expression. Potent bactericidal effects demonstrated by biocompatible NH2–AgNPs and the lack of toxicity of Citrate–AgNPs lend credence to the hypothesis that near-atomic size, positively charged AgNPs may serve as a next-generation antibacterial agent, potentially addressing the rising HAIs and patient health and safety.
Factors Influencing Warm Ischemia Time in Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy Change Depending on the Surgeon’s Experience
Authors: Numakura Kazuyuki , Kobayashi Mizuki , Koizumi Atsushi , Kashima Soki , Yamamoto Ryohei , Nara Taketoshi , Saito Mitsuru , Narita Shintaro , Inoue Takamitsu , Habuchi Tomonori
Published: September 2021

INTRODUCTION: Warm ischemia time (WIT) is a primary concern for robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RALPN) patients because longer WIT is significantly associated with postoperative deteriorating kidney function. Tumor complexity, determined by the RENAL nephrometry score (RENAL score), can help predict surgical outcomes, but it is unclear what RENAL score and clinical factors affect WIT. This study explored the clinical factors predicting long WIT in RALPN.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In our institute, 174 RALPNs were performed between November 2013 and February 2021, of which 114 were performed by a single surgeon and included in this study. Clinical staging and the total RENAL score were determined based on preoperative CT scans. The cases were divided into three groups based on experience: period 1: 1–38, period 2: 39–76, and period 3: 77–114. The clinical factors associated with longer WIT were analyzed per period. RESULTS: The overall median tumor diameter was 32 mm, and one patient had a positive surgical margin, but there were no cancer-related deaths. In total, there were 18 complications (15.8 %). Periods 2 and 3 had larger tumor diameters (p<0.01) and worse preoperative kidney function (p=0.029) than period 1. A RENAL L-component score of 3 was associated with longer WIT in period 3 (odds ratio: 3.900; 95 % confidence interval: 1.004–15.276; p = 0.044), but the tumor diameter and the total RENAL score were not.CONCLUSIONS: A large tumor in the central lesion indicated by the RENAL L-component score was associated with increased WIT in RALPN.
Modulation of Spin-Torque Ferromagnetic Resonance with a Nanometer-Thick Platinum by Ionic Gating
Authors: Ohshima Ryo , Kohsaka Yuto , Ando Yuichiro , Shinjo Teruya , Shiraishi Masashi
Published: September 2021

The spin Hall effect (SHE) and inverse spin Hall effect (ISHE) have played central roles in modern condensed matter physics especially in spintronics and spin-orbitronics, and much effort has been paid to fundamental and application-oriented research towards the discovery of novel spin-orbit physics and the creation of novel spintronic devices. However, studies on gate-tunability of such spintronics devices have been limited, because most of them are made of metallic materials, where the high bulk carrier densities hinder the tuning of physical properties by gating. Here, we show an experimental demonstration of the gate-tunable spin-orbit torque in Pt/Ni80Fe20 (Py) devices by controlling the SHE using nanometer-thick Pt with low carrier densities and ionic gating. The Gilbert damping parameter of Py and the spin-memory loss at the Pt/Py interface were modulated by ionic gating to Pt, which are compelling results for the successful tuning of spin-orbit interaction in Pt.
3D Printed Templates Improve the Accuracy and Safety of Pedicle Screw Placement in the Treatment of Pediatric Congenital Scoliosis
Authors: Cao Jun , Zhang Xuejun , Liu Haonan , Yao Ziming , Bai Yunsong , Guo Dong , Feng Lei
Published: September 2021

Background: Three-dimensional (3-D) printed guidance templates are being increasingly used in spine surgery. The purpose of this study was to determine if 3D printed navigation templates can improve the accuracy of pedicle screw placement and decrease the complication rate compared to freehand screw placement in the treatment of children with congenital scoliosis. Methods: The records of pediatric patients with congenital scoliosis treated at our hospital from January 2017 to January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into those where a 3D printed guidance templated was used and those in which the freehand method was used for pedicle screw placement. The accuracy rate of pedicle screw placement, surgical outcomes, and complications were compared between groups.Results: A total of 67 children with congenital scoliosis were included (43 males and 24 females; mean age of 4.13 ± 2.66 years; range, 2-15 years). There were 34 children in the template-assisted group and 33 in the freehand group. The excellent accuracy rate of pedicle screw placement was significantly higher in the template-assisted group (96.10% vs. 88.64%, P = 0.007). The main Cobb angle and kyphosis angle were similar between the 2 groups preoperatively and postoperatively (all, P > 0.05), and in both groups both angles were significantly decreased after surgery as compared to the preoperative values (all, P < 0.001). The degree of change of the Cobb angle of the main curve and kyphosis angle were not significantly different between the 2 groups. There were no postoperative complications in the template group and 4 in the freehand group (0% vs. 12.12%; P = 0.009). All 4 patients with complications required revision surgery.
Single probes of Fe3O4 Nanorods on textile dye degradation in waste-water treatment
Authors: Mohan S. , Ravikumar K. , Shanmugam V. , Elangovan K. , Devan M. Vishnu , Raj Marnadu , Silambarasan M. , Somaily H.H.
Published: September 2021

The process of removing cancer-causing colours from modern effluents before releasing them into water sources such as rivers, lakes, and groundwater has become standard. Traditional waste-water treatment systems have such great difficulties in eliminating these contaminants. The current one is a unique flavonoids synthesis employing Fe3O4 nanorods that have been utilized as photocatalytic to degrade material color in the watery stage using noticeable light illumination. Flavonoids@Fe3O4 nanorods were blended by green methodology. The vanishing of the ultra-violet (UV) retention top that appeared at 581 nm affirmed the evacuation of the Methyl violet color. Following 60 minutes of duration, the dramatic color elimination by Fe3O4 nanorod was noticed to be 97 percent. The findings demonstrate that the Fe3O4 nanorods made using the green approach are immensely beneficial in the photocatalytic destruction of hazardous pollutants.
Uncovering the Competences of Commonly Used Nutrient Media, Multi-primer Approach and Reference Databases in the Identification of Microalgae Diversity from Environmental Samples
Authors: Badr Amal A. , Fouad Walid M.
Published: September 2021

Microalgae are highly diverse microorganisms and have a variety of benefits and use across different fields. On the other hand, their overgrowth can be extremely dangerous to our environment, thus, making it particularly important to continuously manage and track their abundance and diversity to oversee any potential of extinction or overgrowth. The vast diversity of microalgae imposes the challenge of their identification through the most common and economical identification method, morphological identification, and the more recent molecular-level identification tools. To enhance the identification of microalgae, we targeted enrichment of total microalgae diversity present in an environmental sample using four different enrichment media (BG-11, BBM, Modified media (MM), and half-strength Murashige and Skoog medium (MS)). Morphological identification of the enriched microalgae diversity was conducted every 4-days to monitor the population dynamics. After 14-day the DNA was extracted from the enriched population for molecular-level identification using 16S rRNA gene regions V1-V3 and V4-V5 and 18 rRNA gene V4 region. To further enhance microalgae identification through molecular-level identification, we evaluated three reference databases (SILVA, Greengenes, and Protist Ribosomal Reference (PR2)) to reveal their competence in microalgae diversity identification. A total of 38 microalgae were identified morphologically to the genus level, and the highest number of microalgae were identified through MM media (36), followed by BG-11 and BBM, 31 and 26, respectively. While sequencing the three-primer sets using the three databases, 87 microalgae were identified to the genus level. The highest diversity was identified using the MM media (71 genera) followed by BG-11 (69 genera), BBM (67 genera). Our multiple-media, primer, and reference database approach enabled us to identify a high microalgae diversity that would have been missed if a single approach was used over the other.
Psychological Burden of the COVID-19 Pandemic – the Voice of the Young Doctors’ Generation: an International Survey.
Authors: Czerwińska-Jelonkiewicz Katarzyna , Beneria Anna , Baneras Jordi , Kwasiborski Przemysław , Velagapudi Poonam , Ijioma Nkechinyere , Trêpa Maria , Fekadu Chala , Vandenbriele Christophe , Stratinaki Maria , Tun Han Naung , Garaygordobil Diego Araiza , Verdoia Monica , Moscatelli Sara , Shchendrygina Anastasia , Wood Alice , Johnson Victoria , Reinstadler Sebastian , Aleksic Milica , Pazdernik Michał , Rosenberg Alex
Published: September 2021

Background: Young doctors have made up a substantial part of healthcare forces during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The aim of this study was to determine the rate and level of psychological distress among young doctors during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: This cross-sectional cohort study, dedicated to doctors, at or below the age of 40, was conducted in 62 countries as an online survey between September – November 2020. Survey questions covered the following areas: 1. demographics 2. work environment 3.the ‘Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)’ and the ‘Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS-10)’. The primary outcome was the rate and level of anxiety/depression and stress among surveyed population defined according to adopted cut off values (HADS>13, PSS-10>14). Secondary outcomes included risk factors for increased HADS and PSS-10 scores.Results: Among 1186 respondents, median aged 32 [29–36], 675 (44.5%) females, 96% reported a high level of anxiety/depression and 97% reported a high level of stress. Factors associated with significantly higher scores for anxiety/depression were increased work hours [OR 1.61 95%CI (1.12–2.34);p=0.01] and loss of pay [OR 5.53, 95% CI (1.57–19.47);p=0.008], while reduced work hours [OR 0.68 95% CI (0.48 - 0.98);p=0.03], increased salaries [OR 0.54 95% CI (0.35–0.85);p=0.003) and good training [OR 0.99 95%CI (0.99– 1.00);p=0.002] were associated with lower scores. Higher scores for stress were associated with higher professional experience [OR 1.08 95% CI (1.02–1.14);p=0.008], reduced salaries [OR 1.74 95% CI (1.01–2.92);p=0.04] and living with a partner [OR 1.53 95% CI (1.08–2.17);p=0.01]. Conclusions: A high rate of young doctors working clinically during the COVID-19 pandemic reported a persistently high level of psychological distress more than six months after the initial outbreak. Improvements in work organization, including reduced work hours and financial security are essential to prevent further psychological suffering among young doctors worldwide.
Assessing the suitability of chemical ameliorants for reducing bio-availability of heavy metals in bulk fly ash contaminated soil
Authors: Mandal Joy Kumar , Mukherjee Siddhartha , Saha Niharendu , Halder Nibedan , Chakraborty Sanjoy
Published: September 2021

In-situ rehabilitation of fly ash at dumping sites has been rarely addressed for crop production due to growth-related constraints, largely of heavy metal (HM) contamination in soils and crops. Current communication deals with a novel approach to identify a suitable management option for rejuvenating the contaminated soils. In this background, a 60-days incubation experiment was conducted with different fly ash-soil mixtures (50 + 50%, A1; 75 + 25%, A2; 100 + 0%, A3) along with four ameliorants, namely, lime (T1), sodium sulphide (T2), di-ammonium phosphate (T3), and humic acid (T4) at 30 ± 2 0 C to assess the ability of different fly ash-soil-ameliorant mixtures in reducing bio-availability of HMs. DTPA-extractable bio-available HM contents for lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) and their respective ratios to total HM contents under the influence of different treatments were estimated at different stages of incubation. Further, the ecotoxicological impact of different treatments on soil microbial properties was studied. A1T1 significantly recorded the lowest bio-availability of HMs (~ 49–233% lower) followed by A2T1 (~ 35–133%) among the treatments. The principle component analysis also confirmed the superiority of A1T1 and A2T1 in this regard. Further, A1T1 achieved low contamination factor and ecological risk with substantial microbial biomass carbon load and dehydrogenase activity. Thus, liming to fly ash-soil mixture at 50:50 may be considered as the best management option for ameliorating metal toxicity. This technology may guide thermal power plants to provide the necessary package of practices for the stakeholders to revive their contaminated lands for better environmental sustainability.
Probing the Structure of Melts, Glasses, and Amorphous Materials
Authors: Benmore Chris J. , Wilding Martin C.
Published: September 2021

Liquids, glasses, and amorphous materials are ubiquitous in the Earth sciences and are intrinsic to a plethora of geological processes, ranging from volcanic activity, deep Earth melting events, metasomatic processes, frictional melting (pseudotachylites), lighting strikes (fulgurites), impact melting (tektites), hydrothermal activity, aqueous solution geochemistry, and the formation of dense high-pressure structures. However, liquids and glassy materials lack the long-range order that characterizes crystalline materials, and studies of their structure require a different approach to that of conventional crystallography. The pair distribution function is the neutron diffraction technique used to characterize liquid and amorphous states. When combined with atomistic models, neutron diffraction techniques can determine the properties and behavior of disordered structures.
Probing Phase Transitions and Magnetism in Minerals with Neutrons
Authors: Chakoumakos Bryan C. , Parise John B.
Published: September 2021

The development of sophisticated sample environments to control temperature, pressure, and magnetic field has grown in parallel with neutron source and instrumentation development. High-pressure apparatus, with high- and low-temperature capability, novel designs for diamond cells, and large volume presses are matched with next-generation neutron sources and moderator designs to provide unprecedented neutron beam brightness. Recent developments in sample environments are expanding the pressure–temperature space accessible to neutron scattering experiments. Researchers are using new capabilities and an increased understanding of the fundamentals of structural and magnetic transitions to explore new territories, including hydrogenous minerals (e.g., ices and hydrates) and magnetic structural phase diagrams.