bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The specific heat capacity of astro-material I: Review of theoretical concepts, materials and techniques
Authors: Biele Jens , Grott Matthias , Zolensky Michael E. , Benisek Artur , Dachs Edgar
Published: March 2022

We provide detailed background, theoretical and practical, on the specific heat of minerals and mixtures thereof, ‘astro-materials’, as well as background information on common minerals and other relevant solid substances found on the surfaces of solar system bodies. Furthermore, we demonstrate how to use specific heat and composition data for lunar samples and meteorites as well as a new database of endmember mineral heat capacities (the result of an extensive literature review) to construct reference models for the isobaric specific heat cp as a function of temperature for common solar system materials. Using a (generally linear) mixing model for the specific heat of minerals allows extrapolation of the available data to very low and very high temperatures, such that models cover the temperature range between 10 and 1000 K at least (and pressures from zero up to several kbars). We show how to calculate model specific heat as a function of temperature for a number of typical meteorite classes with known mineralogical compositions, for well-described laboratory regolith analogues, as well as for planetary ices and ‘tholins’ in the outer solar system. We describe a procedure to estimate cp(T) for virtually any solid solar system material with a known mineral composition. Part II will present and review of the heat capacity database for minerals and compounds and part III is going to cover applications and standard reference compositions and cp(T) curves and a comparison with new and literature experimental data.
Parallel generation and coding of a terahertz pulse train
Authors: Nkeck Joel Edouard , Béliveau Louis-Philip , Ropagnol Xavier , Deslandes Dominic , Morris Denis , Blanchard Francois
Published: March 2022

Packet-modulated communication may play a pivotal role in the future of short-range communications at terahertz (THz) frequencies. As with ultra-wideband communication, the advantageous of this type of communication are its extremely short duration, immunity to multipath fading, wide bandwidth and low power spectral density. However, due to the lack of a fast modulation method, packet-modulated pulse communication at THz frequencies has not yet been demonstrated. Here we present a method for the generation and modulation of a coded THz pulse train. Our scheme is based on the combination of a spintronic THz emitter (STE) with an echelon mirror and a digital micromirror device. This highly scalable configuration is capable of modulating hundred or more THz pulses in parallel with sub-picosecond accuracy and is versatile for various modulation protocols. Strikingly, the temporal resolution of our modulation scheme depends on geometric optics and not on a high-speed electronic device. Furthermore, the ability of STEs to generate quasi-continuous THz pulses offers an alternative solution to the photomixer, a key THz communication technology, and thus could lead to a promising new THz communication modality.
Causes of futile life-sustaining interventions from the perspective of physicians and nurses in university hospitals in Tehran
Authors: Akbari Mojtaba , Moosavi Soolmaz , Syed Zain Abbas , Aghabarary Maryam , Nayeri Nahid Dehghan , Shamsi-Gooshki Ehsan , Parsapoor Alireza
Published: March 2022

Background
Providing futile interventions can lead to moral distress for healthcare providers and impose high costs on healthcare systems. Despite this, evidence demonstrates that such interventions still continue in many parts of the world, particularly in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs). Therefore, this current study was conducted to investigate reasons for providing futile interventions from the perspective of physicians and nurses working at hospitals affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS)
Method
In this cross-sectional (descriptive-analytical) study, 249 participants including 128 physicians and 121 nurses working in hospitals affiliated to TUMS were recruited through convenience sampling. Data was collected using a 25-item questionnaire assessing causes of providing futile medical and life-sustaining interventions, grouped into 3 domains of “demands of patients/relatives”, “personal reasons of the healthcare team” and “organisation/infrastructural” limitations. Data was analysed using SPSS 16 and the extent to which participants agreed with each of the causes of futile interventions was expressed as a percentage. Comparisons between the views of physicians and nurses on individual questionnaire items was performed using the Chi-squared test. A linear regression analysis was used to compare the views of physicians and nurses in each of the 3 domains of the questionnaire, and for intra-group comparisons.
Results
For both physicians and nurses, the most common reasons for futile interventions related to patients and their relatives including demands/insistence on the continuation of treatment and false hope for the patient’s recovery. Compared to physicians, nurses gave greater importance to the domains of patient/relatives’ demands as well as personal reasons of the healthcare team. Physicians expressed strongest agreement with the domain of organisation/infrastructural limitations, including lack of guidelines and palliative care centres.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that despite awareness of the healthcare team members regarding the futility of some interventions, they are still performed due to the reasons highlighted. Therefore, it clinical guidelines should be developed for appropriate end-of-life care, including restricting the use of futile interventions, increase public and professional awareness and knowledge around futile end-of-life interventions and strengthen palliative care services, thereby leading to greater efficiency and justice in the healthcare system.
Utilization of labor pain management methods and associated factors among obstetric care givers at public health institutions of East Gojjam Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia, 2020: a facility based cross – sectional study
Authors: shiferaw aster , Temesgen Belsty , Mekonnen Nakachewu , Wubie Tejitu , Worku Yichalem
Published: March 2022

Background
Labor Pain is “unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, affects parturient and fetuses’. Developed countries regularly use obstetric analgesia but in developing countries, including Ethiopia pain is neglected and most women go through painful labor. The study was conducted in public health institutions of East Gojjam Zone; Amhara region, Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to assess utilization of labor pain management methods and associated factors among obstetric care givers in the study setting.
Method
Facility-based cross sectional study design was carried out in public health institutions of East Gojjam Zone from April 15 to May 15, 2020. Semi Structured questionnaires were used and 305 obstetric care givers were participated. Stratified sampling technique was used. Data was entered by Epi- data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20. Descriptive analysis was done and Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression with 95% CI was used to saw the association of dependent and independent variables at p < 0.05.
Result
Utilization of labor pain management methods in this study was 48.9%. In Multivariate logistic regression; Professional knowledge [AOR = 2.006, 95% CI = ((1.032–3.898)], availability of drug and equipment [AOR = 2.937, 95% CI= (1.311–6.578)] and allow companionship [AOR = 2.587, 95% CI= (1.322–5.063)] were significantly associated with utilization of labor pain management methods.
Conclusion and recommendation
: This study showed low utilization of labor pain management methods. Adequate knowledge, allow accompany and availability of drug & equipment were factors associated with use of labor pain relief options .so it is important to build knowledge of obstetric care givers, availing drugs and materials and make safe the environment for accompany ship to improving use of labor pain management.
Ecotourism through the perception of forest villagers: Understanding via mediator effects using structural equation modeling
Authors: Gültekin Yaşar Selman
Published: March 2022

Ecotourism activities play an important role in providing economic gain to villagers living in forest ecosystems. Successful sustainable forest management is made possible through the environmental responsibility of the stakeholders and the support of the local inhabitants of the region. Contemporary studies conducted in ecotourism have focused on meeting regional expectations by assessing the satisfaction levels and attitudes of tourists and evaluating hotel management services, but have excluded the perspective of the rural people in the region. Using causal models and mediation effects, this study attempted to explore the attitudes of forest villagers, as the most important interest group, toward ecotourism activities in Turkey. Structural equation modeling and bootstrap methods were applied to identify key concepts related to ecotourism including the mediation effects between income opportunities and ecotourism satisfaction as perceived by the forest villagers regarding perceived negative effects and insufficient services. According to the results of the research, it was determined that, despite the perceived negative effects of ecotourism activities by the forest villagers, income opportunities made a strong positive contribution to their perceived ecotourism satisfaction. Study results offer significant implications for policymakers and ecotourism planners for decreasing pressure on forest ecosystems through participatory forest management approaches to sustainable development in rural areas associated with forest ecosystems.
Loss of SENP3 Mediated the Formation of Nasal Polyps in Nasal Mucosal Inflammation by Increasing Macrophage Alternative Activation
Authors: Bao Ximing , Liu Bin , Jiang Yongquan , Feng Tingting , Cao Wanxin , Shi Jiali , Jiang Yiming , Chen Xiaorui , Yang Jie , Li Jiping , Zhou Zheng
Published: March 2022

Background and aim: Small ubiquitin–like modifier (SUMO)-specific protease (SENP)3 is a protease molecule that responds to reactive oxygen species (ROS) with high sensitivity. However, the role of ROS and SENP3 in the formation of nasal polyps (NPs) remains unclear. This study aimed to explore how SENP3 influenced the outcome of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) by altering macrophage function, that is, the formation of NPs. Methods: The alternative activation of macrophage (M2) was detected with CD68+CD206+ in humans and CD206+ in mice. The nasal mucosa of patients with CRS was tested using flow cytometry (CD68, CD80, and CD206) and triple-color immunofluorescence staining (CD68, CD206, and SENP3). The bone marrow–derived macrophages from SENP3 knockout and control mice were stimulated with interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 to analyze alternative macrophage polarization in vitro. An animal model of eosinophil infiltration rhinitis was constructed using SENP3 knockout mice. CD206 was detected by immunofluorescence staining. The thickening of eosinophil-infiltrated mucosa was detected by Luna staining. Results: The number of CD68+ CD206+ M2 increased in the nasal mucosa of patients with CRS with NP (CRSwNP) compared with patients with CRS without NP (CRSsNP), but with no significant difference between the groups. SENP3 knockout increased the polarization of F4/80+CD206+M2. Meanwhile, the number of CD206+M2 significantly increased in the osinophil infiltration rhinitis model constructed using SENP3 knockout mice and controls, with a more obvious proliferation of the nasal mucosa. Conclusion: The downregulation of the expression of macrophage SENP3 in the nasal mucosa in osinophil infiltration rhinitis promoted the formation of NPs. Trial registration: This study was retrospective and did not involve any health interventions for human participants.
Design of a compliant device for peg-hole separation in robotic disassembly
Authors: Su Shizhong , Pham Duc Truong , Ji Chunqian , Wang Yongjing , Huang Jun , Zhou Wei , Wang Haolin
Published: March 2022

Disassembly is the first step in the remanufacturing of a product. This paper presents the design of a robot end-of-arm tool for removing a peg from a hole, a common operation in the disassembly of mechanical products. The device is a compliant structure that enables the peg to be pulled out of a closely fitting hole without jamming or wedging. The device is reminiscent of the Remote Centre Compliance (RCC) mechanism used by assembly robots to insert cylindrical pegs into cylindrical holes with small clearances. However, whereas the RCC mechanism has primarily to withstand compressive forces, the proposed compliant device must resist tensile forces because of the nature of disassembly operations. The paper details a finite-element modelling study of peg removal with and without using the compliant structure. The results obtained show that the structure markedly reduces the stresses at the points of contact between the peg and the hole and, consequently, the risk of damage to the components being disassembled.
Association between environmental pyrethroid exposure and asthma among U.S. children and adults in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007–2014)
Authors: Guo Xianwei , Li Ning , Wang Hao , Su Wanying , Song Qiuxia , Liang Qiwei , Lowe Scott , Bentley Rachel , Liang Mingming , Ding Xiuxiu , Sun Chenyu , Sun Yehuan
Published: March 2022

Objectives: The evidence interpreting the association between environmental pyrethroid exposure and asthma is limited. The objective of this study was to examine the association between pyrethroid exposure and asthma among U.S. children and adults. Methods: Participants were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2007-2014), including children and adults. 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA) was used as a biomarker for pyrethroid metabolites. Multiple logistic regression models were constructed to estimate the association of urinary 3-PBA with asthma among children and adults and to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Additionally, a restricted cubic spline plot with three knots was applied to assess the potential nonlinear relationship between pyrethroid exposure and asthma.Results: Collectively, 7,776 participants were enrolled, including 2,236 children and 5,540 adults. The weighted prevalence of asthma in children and adults was 12.23% and 8.66% respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, poverty income ratio (PIR), body mass index (BMI), serum cotinine, urinary creatinine and family history of asthma, our results indicated that higher levels of 3-PBA was positively related to the risk of asthma among children (OR: 1.395; 95%CI: 0.880, 2.210) and adults (OR: 1.177; 95%CI: 0.778, 1.781). This positive association seemed to be more pronounced among 12-19-years old children and girls. Furthermore, the restricted cubic spline plot showed a linear relationship between levels of 3-PBA and asthma among children and adults (p for nonlinearity was 0.693 and 0.691 respectively).Conclusions: Our study observed a positive association between 3-PBA and asthma among children and adults while this positive association was more pronounced among children. However, we can not role out the possibility that the possible role of other co-occurring pesticides and other chemicals in the observed trends in asthma incidence. Therefore, further studies are needed to evaluate the possible pathogenic role of pyrethroid insecticides in asthma.
Removal of triclosan from water by adsorption on activated carbons and photodegradation
Authors: Medellin-Castillo Nahum Andrés , González-Fernández Lázaro Adrián , Ocampo-Pérez Raúl , Leyva-Ramos Roberto , Luiz-Dotto Guilherme , Ramírez Rogelio Flores , Navarro-Frómeta Amado Enrique , Aguilera-Flores Miguel Mauricio , Carrasco-Marín Francisco , Hernández-Mendoza Héctor , Aguirre-Contreras Samuel
Published: March 2022

This work studied the application of adsorption with activated carbons (ACs) and photodegradation to reduce the concentration of triclosan (TCS) in aqueous solutions. Concerning the adsorption, the ACs (Darco, Norit, and F400) were characterized in detail, and batch experiments were applied to elucidate the effect of pH on the equilibrium. The results showed that at pH = 7, the maximum adsorption capacity of TCS onto the ACs was obtained, which was 18.5 mg g− 1 for Darco, 16.0 for Norit, and 15.5 for F400. The Diffusional kinetic model allowed an adequate interpretation of the experimental data. The effective diffusivity varied and increased along with the amount of TCS adsorbed, from 1.06 to 1.68×10− 8 cm2 s− 1. In the case of photodegradation, the removal percentage of TCS and sulfate radicals were verified. It was possible to ensure that the triclosan molecule was sensitive to UV light of 254 nm since the removal was over 80% using UV light. The removal of TCS was increased in the presence of sulfate radicals. It was possible to identify 2,4-dichlorophenol as one of the photolytic degradation products of triclosan, and it does not represent an environmental hazard at low concentrations of triclosan in water. These results confirm that the wastewater treatment methods proposed are effective for removing TCS from water, reaching levels of concentration that do not constitute a risk to human health or environmental hazard. Both methods effectively eliminate the pollutant with relatively easy techniques to implement.
WITHDRAWN: A Quality Improvement Study Evaluating Implementation of Collaborative Care Code Billing
Authors: Chang Denise , Morrison Debra , Bowen Deborah , Harris Heather , Dusic EJ , Velasquez Mariebeth B , Ratzliff Anna
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) has a robust evidence base and is widely accepted as an effective strategy to treat common mental health disorders in primary care. With the growing adoption of the newer CoCM billing codes in healthcare systems, there has yet to be an in-depth analysis of the impact of the implementation of these codes. Aim: To examine the feasibility of implementing Collaborative Care billing codes and the impact on clinical and process-of-care outcomes as well as revenue. Setting: This study was done in a large, urban academic health system, in primary care clinics with established Collaborative Care programs. Comparisons were made between clinics that billed psychotherapy codes (N=4) and clinics that billed CoCM billing codes (N=4). Program Description: This quality improvement study was designed to evaluate the implementation of the new CoCM billing codes by comparing clinics using different billing strategies. Program Evaluation: We employed a retrospective observational study design, examining data before and after the CoCM billing implementation. Primary outcomes for this study were the amount of services delivered and the estimated revenue generated. Additionally, we examined the amount and type of activities billed under CoCM. Qualitative data was obtained through clinician interviews to understand their perspective of this type of large-scale billing implementation.Discussion: The results of this study demonstrate that implementation of the CoCM billing codes is operationally feasible, and there was no significant difference in the amount of services or revenue generated. These preliminary findings indicate that adopting new billing codes did not have an adverse impact on the delivery of patient care or revenue, though further evaluations are needed to understand the longer-term impact of CoCM billing on clinic operations and reimbursement.
Ionospheric signatures of repeated passages of atmospheric waves by the 2022 Jan. 15 Hunga Tonga eruption detected by QZSS-TEC observations in Japan
Authors: Heki Kosuke
Published: March 2022

A large eruption occurred on January 15, 2022, at the submarine volcano Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai, southern Pacific, and the atmospheric Lamb wave was observed to have traveled round the Earth multiple times with a speed of ~ 0.3 km/s. Here, I compare their ionospheric and atmospheric signatures using data from dense arrays of barometers and GNSS stations in Japan. I confirmed that the ionospheric disturbances passed over Japan at least four times, first from SE to NW, then from NW to SE, again from SE to NW, and finally from NW to SE. The propagation velocity of the ionospheric disturbances was as fast as the atmospheric Lamb wave, suggesting their origin as upward energy leakage from the troposphere. The first passage of the ionospheric disturbance started prior to the arrival of the Lamb pulse. I propose a simple model of upward acoustic wave propagation which qualitatively explains this apparently enigmatic phenomenon. Unlike the barometric records, waveforms and amplitudes of ionospheric disturbances exhibit large diversity along the wavefront, suggesting their turbulent nature.
The Contribution of Social Norms and Behavioural Practices towards Low Death Registration in 3 HDSS Sites of Uganda
Authors: Habaasa Gilbert
Published: March 2022

Background: Uganda has low levels of death registration, estimated at two per cent by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA). There are 56 tribes and over 5 religious denominations with so many social norms and behavioural practices that could have contributed towards low death registration in Uganda. Previous studies on the factors affecting death registration have not assessed the contribution of social norms and behavioural practices towards low death registration in developing countries. Methods: The current research has been conducted in 3 Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) sites of Uganda to fill this knowledge gap. The study adopted a qualitative approach by conducting 26 interviews, 6 focus group discussions, and a document review. The study targeted men, women, district local government leaders, hospital administrators, religious leaders, cultural leaders, village health teams, HDSS village scouts, and opinion leaders. Results: There is very low death registration rates in the Iganga-Mayuge, Kyamulibwa, and Rakai HDSS sites and also expounded on how social norms and behavioural practices either hinder or discourage death registration initiatives by the government of Uganda. Some of these norms include informal will-making and inheritance sharing and taboos to announce the death of twins, infants, neonates, and even suicides. Religious institutions have their own set of rules, practices, and norms, which in most cases discourage death registration—for example, praying for the dead only when they or their relatives have been actively engaged in religious activities. Conclusion: The study confirms that social norms and behavioural practices contribute to low death registration in the 3 HDSS sites of Uganda. The civil registration authorities in Uganda, therefore, need to recognize the heterogeneity of cultural norms, religious beliefs and practices around death and how these influence the propensity for different deaths to be registered.
Photons guided by axons may enable backpropagation-based learning in the brain
Authors: Zarkeshian Parisa , Kergan Taylor , Ghobadi Roohollah , Nicola Wilten , Simon Christoph
Published: March 2022

Despite great advances in explaining synaptic plasticity and neuron function, a complete understanding of the brain’s learning algorithms is still missing. Artificial neural networks provide a powerful learning paradigm through the backpropagation algorithm which modifies synaptic weights by using feedback connections. Backpropagation requires extensive communication of information back through the layers of a network. This has been argued to be biologically implausible and it is not clear whether backpropagation can be realized in the brain. Here we suggest that biophotons guided by axons provide a potential channel for backward transmission of information in the brain. Biophotons have been experimentally shown to be produced in the brain, yet their purpose is not understood. We propose that biophotons can propagate from each post-synaptic neuron to its pre-synaptic one to carry the required information backward. To reflect the stochastic character of biophoton emissions, our model includes the stochastic backward transmission of teaching signals. We demonstrate that a three-layered network of neurons can learn the MNIST handwritten digit classification task using our proposed backpropagation-like algorithm with stochastic photonic feedback. We model realistic restrictions and show that our system still learns the task for low rates of biophoton emission, information-limited (one bit per photon) backward transmission, and in the presence of noise photons. Our results suggest a new functionality for biophotons and provide an alternate mechanism for backward transmission in the brain.
Analysis of the influence of piston-cylinder friction on the torsional vibration characteristics of compressor crankshaft system
Authors: Li Tao , Zhiqiang Huang , Chen Zhen , Zhang Kehai , Wang Jie
Published: March 2022

With the development of compressors towards high speed and multiple columns, the torsional vibration phenomenon has become a major factor affecting the service life and reliability of the shaft system. Therefore, this paper considers the influence of friction between piston and cylinder on the instantaneous inertia of the crank connecting rod mechanism, establishes a nonlinear torsional vibration mechanics model of shale gas compressor shaft system, solves the natural frequency of the shaft system under undamped and damped conditions using the eigenvector method, and investigates the influence of the friction coefficient between piston and cylinder and the operating speed on the torsional vibration response of the shaft system under the self-excitation of the shaft system and the action of and excitation moment by the Runge-Kutta methods. The results show that after considering the friction between the piston and the cylinder, the 2nd order natural frequency of the shaft system shows a "high-low-high" fluctuation pattern; As the friction coefficient increases, the amplitude of the shaft system and the peak vibration speed show a rising trend; Meanwhile, when the speed increases, the vibration of the shaft system changes from chaotic \ period to the proposed periodic state, but the amplitude shows a decreasing trend. The research in this paper aims to improve the theory of nonlinear dynamics of compressor shaft systems, and the determined nonlinear parameters can be used to guide the operation and maintenance of compressors in engineering.
Protective Effect of SIRT1 on TGF-β1 Pathway via mTOR in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Gu Yanting , Xu Pengcheng , Wang Yanchun , Jiang Dechun
Published: March 2022

Increasing amounts of evidence show that silent information regulator 2 homolog 1 (SIRT1) expression in mitochondria plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and development diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, no studies were carried out to evaluate regulation of SIRT1 in TGF-β1/Smad3 deacetylation. In this study, we demonstrated that overexpressing of SIRT1 may decrease TGF-β1 and Smad3 expression in HEK293 cells through regulating mTOR. In addition, the result is the opposite when SIRT1 reduced in HEK293 cells. Taken together, these results demonstrate that although the relationship between SIRT1 and TGF-β1/Smad3 deacetylation has not been reported, and it can be speculated that SIRT1 is closely related to TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway and this situation correlates with the regulation of mTOR and ROS generation. The available evidence implies that SIRT1 has great potential as a clinical target for the prevention and treatment of renal fibrosis in the development of DN.
Mycobacterium avium Brain Abscess in a 45 year-old Male with HIV-Induced Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS)
Authors: Alfarkh Wedad , DiNardo Andrew , Goodman Jerry C. , Muldrew Kenneth L.
Published: March 2022

Background: The Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex (MAC) consists of two mycobacterial species- M.avium and M. intracellulare. The organisms exist in nature in water, soil, and food and can be acquired via inhalation or ingestion. It is an uncommon cause of infection, initially affecting the pulmonary system in patients with underlying lung disease or immunocompromised patients. Extra-pulmonary infection can occur in the liver, spleen, skin, soft tissue, and lymph nodes. Only ten cases in the English literature have documented central nervous system (CNS) infections. Additionally, these eight cases were reported in HIV positive patients who presented with single or multiple enhancing brain lesions and were initially misdiagnosed as toxoplasmosis. Case presentation: We report a case of a 45-year-old male who was diagnosed with HIV/ AIDS and was found to have four parietal and temporal ring-enhancing lesions by MRI that failed to improve on anti-Toxoplasmosis therapy. A brain biopsy demonstrated multiple nodular granulomata with lymphoplasmacytic cells, epithelioid histiocytes, and rare giant cells. No caseous necrosis is seen, but foci of micronecrosis were present. No toxoplasmosis or primary CNS lymphoma was present. Very abundant acid-fast bacilli were seen on Fite and auramine stains. In addition, there was heavy CD8+ T cell infiltration suggestive of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS). PCR and sequencing of paraffin-embedded brain tissue demonstrated M. avium. He was treated with Rifampin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide and Ethambutol (RIPE) plus clarithromycin 500 mg BID that was switched to azithromycin 500 mg to decrease QTc prolongation. He is also now on anti-retroviral therapy. At the last clinic visit approximately five months after diagnosis of CNS MAC, he was very much improved.Conclusion: Brain MAC abscess is very rare, with less than 10 cases being previously reported in both AIDS and non-AIDS patients. This diagnosis should be considered in immunocompromised patients who do not respond to anti-toxoplasmosis therapy and brain biopsy is important to provide definitive identification and guide treatment.
Screening performance in high-risk groups of breast cancer by integrating classical risk factors, mammographic density and polygenic risk
Authors: Huang Yubei , Wang Zhipeng , Lyu Zhangyan , Dai Hongji , Zhao Yanrui , Liu Peifang , Zhu Ying , Song Fengju , Chen Kexin
Published: March 2022

Background: Risk prediction models integrating classical risk factors (CRF), mammographic density (MD), and polygenic risk score (PRS) are increasingly developed to identify high-risk groups of breast cancer. Few studies investigate the screening performance in high-risk groups by these models.Methods: Based on a median follow-up of 11.7 years of 7794 women from the Multi-modality Independent Screening Trial (MIST), four risk prediction models with CRF (ModelCRF), CRF and MD (ModelCRF+MD), CRF and PRS (ModelCRF+PRS), and all three components (ModelFULL) were developed to identify high-risk groups of breast cancer. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidential interval (CI) of breast-cancer mortality for high-risk groups compared to low-risk groups was calculated to determine potential benefit of risk-reducing interventions. The detection rate (DR), accuracy and cancer-stage for clinical breast examination (CBE), breast ultrasonography (BUS), and mammography (MAM) were compared to determine the optimal screening method for high-risk groups.Results: The areas under the curve of risk prediction model increased from 0.573 (95%CI: 0.532-0.614) for ModelCRF, to 0.587 (95%CI: 0.544-0.630) for ModelCRF+MD, 0.670 (95%CI: 0.622-0.717) for ModelCRF+PRS and 0.674 (95%CI: 0.623-0.725) for ModelFULL. The HRs of breast cancer mortality for high-risk groups compared to low-risk groups increased from 1.81 (95%CI: 1.17-2.81) for ModelCRF, to 2.22 (95%CI: 1.35-3.67) for ModelCRF+MD, 2.48 (95%CI: 1.43-4.29) for ModelCRF+PRS, and 3.68(95%CI: 1.94-6.99) for ModelFULL. Among high-risk groups by ModelCRF, the DR of BUS was similar to that of MAM (3.926/1,000 vs. 2.399/1,000, P=0.193), but significantly higher than that of CBE (1.091/1,000, P=0.024). Compared with MAM, BUS showed significantly lower sensitivity (50.0% vs. 81.8%, P=0.026), but comparable specificity (99.2% vs. 99.3%), positive prediction values (22.9% vs. 34.6%), and negative prediction values (99.8% vs. 99.9%). Further analyses showed no significant difference in the proportions of early-stage breast cancer detected between BUS and MAM (50.00% vs. 61.54%, P=0.673). Similar results were observed in high-risk groups by other models.Conclusions: Accurate risk assessment integrating CRF, MD and PRS is needed to identify high-risk groups of breast cancer. The higher the risk, the greater the benefit of the intervention. BUS was comparable to MAM for screening breast cancer in high-risk groups.
Effect of age and analysis of prognostic risk factors in the treatment of complex tibial plateau fracture
Authors: Wang Junwen , Zhu Fukang
Published: March 2022

Introduction： The primary aim is to compare the t complex tibial plateau fractures（CTPFs）treated with open reduction internal fixation（ORIF）between elderly (age≥55 years) and young(age＜55 years) patients. The second aim is to investigate the risk factors in the treatment of CTPFs.Material and Method： Patients who received double-incision approaches for CTPFs between November 2016 and December 2020 were collected retrospectively. The treatment effect was assessed by operation time、lower limb alignment、non-anatomical reduction of the articular surface、infection rate、hospital for special surgery knee score（HSS） and range of motion（ROM）. We defined treatment failure as either the HSS＜75 or the ROM＜100° in the last follow-up and performed a multivariable logistic model to identify the risk factors for treatment failure.Result： There were no differences between the groups in terms of demographics except for diabetes（P=0.012）. We detected no differences in the variables of treatment evaluation except the HSS(P=0.0001) and ROM(P=0.001). While the value of HSS and ROM in the elderly was still as high as 82.21±7.29 and 114.00±14.64° respectively. Age≥55 yeas（P=0.001）、tobacco use（P=0.012）、non-anatomical reduction of the articular surface（P=0.036） were risk factors for treatment failure.Conclusions： ORIF combined with double-incision was still suitable for most elderly patients. In addition to focusing on the surgical treatment, attention should also be paid to the patients' personal habits.
Multistage Nucleic Acid Amplification Induced Nano-Aggregation for 3D Hotspots-Improved SERS Detection of Circulating miRNAs
Authors: Sun Yudie , Fang La , Yi Yang , Feng Aobo , Zhang Kui , Xu Jing-Juan
Published: March 2022

Circulating miRNAs in the blood can regulate disease development and thus indicate disease states via their various expression levels. For these reasons, circulating miRNAs constitute useful biomarkers, and an approach to the accurate detection of circulating miRNAs is attractive in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. However, methods for detecting circulating miRNA that take both sensitivity and practicality into account are not currently available. Therefore, we aimed herein to solve some inherent problems in the actual detection using a robust surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) platform with integrated nucleic acid amplification and nanoparticle aggregation to construct 3D hotspots for improving performance of analyzing circulating miRNAs. After target recognition and initial signal amplification by DNAzyme, we observed that release triggered an open hairpin DNA on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), which then promote AuNP aggregation, causing the accumulation of a large number of hotspots in three-dimention. The SERS biosensor achieved a better performance than the sandwich-type separation detection, with a low detection limit (0.37 fM) and a broad linear range (1 fM-10 nM) in liquids. This SERS platform can be used as a powerful tool for the detection of circulating miRNAs, and it can be used to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of various clinical-disease diagnoses.
Expression of MicroRNA 181a and its Target Genes: BCL2 and NOVA1 in Plasma Cell Myeloma
Authors: Elbordiney Magdy , Elgandour Ashraf , Wageeh Yasmine , Elwafa Reahm Abo
Published: March 2022

Background: Plasma cell myeloma (PCM) is one of the most common hematological malignancies. Despite advances in myeloma treatment, it remains an incurable disease. Studying the molecular bases of PCM has become essential to understand the pathobiology of the disease and hence for better management. The role of miRNAs is evolving in many malignancies, their use as markers for diagnosis, prognosis or as therapeutic modalities is promising. This study aimed at investigating the role of miR-181a and its target genes BCL2 and NOVA1 in PCM. Methods: The expression of miR-181a and its target genes BCL2 and NOVA1 was studied in bone marrow samples of 50 newly diagnosed PCM patients compared to 50 control subjects using real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ-PCR). Results: miR-181a, BCL2 and NOVA1 were found to be significantly upregulated among PCM patients compared to controls. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between miR-181a and BCL2. Furthermore, BCL2 and NOVA1 expression were found to be positively correlated. High levels of BCL2 were associated with advanced disease stages, presence of bone lesions as well as higher percentage of plasma and myeloma cells in bone marrow.Conclusion: The current study results are highly suggestive of the potential role miR181a plays in PCM development and progression, and explains how it can play its role through influencing its targets expression levels.
The chronological demographics of ventricular-arterial decoupling in patients with sepsis and septic shock: A prospective observational study
Authors: Nasu Michitaka , Sato Ryota , Takahashi Kuniko , Nakaizumi Takayuki , Maruyama Akiyoshi , Ueda Shinichiro
Published: March 2022

Background:Ventricular-arterial coupling (V-A coupling) recently gathers attention from clinicians as a load-independent indicator of left ventricular systolic function. We aimed to describe the chronological demographics of V-A decoupling in patients with sepsis and septic shock through the clinical course.Method:We conducted a single-center prospective observational study comprising adult patients with sepsis and septic shock admitted to the tertiary care hospital between 04/2017 and 03/2019. Patients’ characteristics, lab data on admission, and echocardiographic parameters including Ea and Ees on the day- 1, 2, 3, 7, and 14-28 were collected. V-A decoupling was defined as Ea/Ees ≥ 1.36.Results:Seventy-one patients with sepsis or septic shock were enrolled. The prevalence of V-A decoupling was as follows; day-1: 25.4%, day-2: 23.8%, day-3: 13.3%, day-7: 18.5%, day-14-28: 30.3%, respectively. Ea was higher in patients with V-A decoupling than those without throughout the clinical course (day1; 2.8 vs. 1.8, p< 0.01, day2; 2.7 vs. 1.9, p<0.01, day3; 2.8 vs. 2.1, p=0.06, day7; 2.7 vs. 1.9, p=0.02, day14-28; 2.4 vs. 1.8, p=0.08). This increase in Ea was mainly induced by reduced stroke volume (SV) as well as high systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the earlier course of sepsis but only by increased SBP in the later course of sepsis. Ees was lower in patients with V-A decoupling than those without throughout the clinical course (day1; 1.3 vs. 2.1, p< 0.01, day2; 1.5 vs. 2.3, p<0.01, day3; 1.6 vs. 2.3, p=0.02, day7; 1.8 vs. 2.3, p=0.01, day14-28; 1.2 vs. 1.9, p=0.07). Increased SBP and the estimated normalized ventricular elastance were responsible for this reduction of Ees.Conclusion:We reported that V-A decoupling was commonly seen in patients with sepsis and septic shock. In patients with V-A decoupling, both Ea and Ees were significantly altered, but the causes of these alterations appeared to be changing over the clinical course of sepsis.
Measures of malaria transmission, infection, and disease in an area bordering two districts with and without sustained indoor residual spraying of insecticide in Uganda
Authors: Nankabirwa Joaniter I , Bousema Teun , Blanken Sara Lynn , Rek John , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Greenhouse Bryan , Rosenthal Philip J , Kamya Moses R , Staedke Sarah G , Dorsey Grant
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Tororo District, in Eastern Uganda, experienced a dramatic decline in malaria burden following the implementation of indoor residual spraying of insecticide (IRS) in 2014; the adjacent Busia District did not receive IRS. Data from areas near the margins of IRS coverage are limited. In this study, measures of malaria transmission, infection, and disease were compared between two parishes in Tororo District (Kayoro and Osukuru) and one in Busia District (Buteba), where IRS was not implemented.Methods: A cohort of 483 residents from 80 randomly selected households were followed from August 2020 to January 2021. Mosquitoes were collected every 2 weeks using CDC light traps in rooms where participants slept; parasitemia and gametoctyemia measured every 4 weeks by microscopy and PCR, and symptomatic malaria measured by passive surveillance. Results: The annual entomological inoculation rate was significantly higher in Buteba (108.2 infective bites/person/year), compared to Osukuru (59.0, p=0.001) and Kayoro (27.4, p<0.001). Overall, parasite prevalence was 19.5% by microscopy and 50.7% by PCR, with no significant differences between the three parishes. Among infected individuals, gametocyte prevalence by PCR was 45.5% and similar between sites. The incidence of malaria was significantly higher in Osukuru (2.46 episodes PPY) compared to Buteba (1.47, p=0.005) and Kayoro (1.09, p<0.001). For participants over 15 years of age, the risk of symptomatic malaria if microscopic parasitemia was present was higher in Osukuru (relative risk [RR]=2.99, p=0.03) compared to Buteba. Conclusions: Transmission intensity was modestly lower in two border parishes of Tororo District, where IRS was sustained for 6 years, compared to that in Busia District, where IRS was not implemented. Although parasite prevalence was similar between the three parishes, incidence of malaria was higher in one parish in Tororo. These observations highlight the complexity of relationships between malaria transmission intensity, parasite prevalence and disease incidence, and the potential for differences in immunity and clinical presentation resulting from differing transmission dynamics over time.
New research on aberrant alterations of WIF-1 hypermethylation during the colorectal cancer development
Authors: Tian Xin , Ma Jianzhong , Sui Chengguang , Zhou Ximing , Wang Yueping
Published: March 2022

Purpose: The molecular pathological mechanism of CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP ) is not very clear,the variation regularities of Wnt inhibitory factor-1(WIF-1) hypermethylation in CIMP, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) catalyzed with WIF-1 hypermethylation and hypermethylation relationship between WIF-1 tissue and feces had not been reported, these were studied in this paper. Materials and Methods: The big data and meta-analysis were used to handle experiment data.Results: 13 independent articles had included 1444 tissue and 590 fecal cases. WIF-1 hypermethylation of control tissue or feces was used as standard reference, this results showed that ORs (95%CI) of WIF-1 hypermethylation of colorectal cancer (CRC) and adenoma or polyp in tissue were 53.32(19.26– 147.63) and 15.64 (6.84 – 35.78), and these in feces were 32.38 (11.99 – 87.49) and 10.35 (3.36 – 32.04), respectively. This study showed that WIF-1 hypermethylation frequencies of CRC and adenoma or polyp in tissue were 68% and 59%, and that in feces were 44% and 34 %, respectively. WIF-1 hypermethylation risk in tissues was significantly higher than that in feces. There was a linear equation between the hypermethylation rate of tissue and that of feces. The quadratic curve of WIF-1 hypermethylation in tissue reflected overall changing characteristic of DNMT.Conclusions: WIF-1 hypermethylation based on this quadratic cueve above can gradually produce powerful strength, promote the transcriptional inactivation expansion, and ultimately lead to CRC occurrence. DNMT catalyzed with WIF-1 hypermethylation also shares quadratic curve feature. WIF-1 hyperthylation in feces reflects WIF-1 hyperthylation in tissue, it is a non-invasive important biomarker in early CRC diagnose.
Development of Microflow Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Metabolomic Assays for Analysis of Mammalian Biofluids
Authors: Harwood-Stamper Annie J. , Rowland Caroline A. , Dunn Warwick B.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The application of untargeted metabolomics assays using ultra high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) to study metabolism in biological systems including humans is rapidly increasing. In some of these studies there is a requirement to collect and analyse low sample volumes of biofluids (e.g. tear fluid) or low cell and tissue mass samples (e.g. tissue needle biopsies). The application of microflow, capillary or nano liquid chromatography (≤ 1.0mm column internal diameter (ID)) theoretically should accomplish a higher assay sensitivity compared to analytical liquid chromatography (2.1–5.0mm column internal diameter). Objectives: To date, there has been limited research into microflow UHPLC-MS assays that can be applied to study samples of low volume or mass. This paper presents three complementary UHPLC-MS assays (aqueous C18 reversed-phase, lipidomics C18 reversed-phase and Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography (HILIC)) applying 1.0mm internal diameter columns for untargeted metabolomics. Methods: Human plasma and urine samples were applied for the method development, with porcine plasma, urine and tear fluid used for method assessment. Data were collected and compared for columns of the same length, stationary phase and stationary phase particle size but with two different column internal diameters (2.1mm and 1.0mm). Results: All three assays showed an increase in peak areas and peak widths when applying the 1.0mm ID assays. HILIC assays provide an advantage at lower sample dilutions whereas for reversed phase (RP) assays there is no benefit added. This can be seen in the validation study where a much higher number of compounds was detected in the HILIC assay. RP assays were still appropriate for small volume samples with suitable numbers of compounds being detected. Conclusions: In summary, the 1.0mm ID column assays are applicable for small volume samples where dilution is required during preparation.