bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urine Cells-derived iPSCs: An Upcoming Frontier in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Gautam Sanjeev , Biswas Sangita , Singh Birbal , Guo Ying , Deng Peng , Deng Wenbin
Published: June 2021

There is a momentous surge in the development of stem cell technology, such
as therapeutic and diagnostic tools. Stem cell-derived cells are currently used in various
clinical trials. However, key issues and challenges faced involve the low differentiation
efficiency, integration and functioning of transplanted stem cells-derived cells. Extraction
of bone marrow, adipose or other mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) involves invasive
methods, specialized skills and expensive technologies. Urine-derived cells, on the other
hand, are obtained by non-invasive methods; samples can be obtained repeatedly from patients
of any age. Urine-derived cells are used to generate reprogrammed or induced
pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) which can be cultured and differentiated into various types
of cell lineages for biomedical investigations and drug testing in vitro or in vivo using
model animals of human diseases. Urine cells-derived iPSCs (UiPSCs) have emerged as
a major area of research having immense therapeutic significance. Given that preliminary
preclinical studies are successful in terms of safety and as a regenerative tool, the UiPSCs
will pave the way to the development of various types of autologous stem cell therapies.
Parkinson’s Disease: A Current Perspectives on Parkinson’s Disease and
Key Bioactive Natural Compounds as Future Potential Drug Candidates
Authors: Ali Nabeel , Syeda Amna , Topgyal Tenzin , Gaur Naseem , Islam Asimul
Published: June 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common types of neurological disorder pre-vailing worldwide and is rapidly increasing in the elderly population across the globe. The cause of PD is still unknown, but a number of genetic as well as environmental factors contributing to the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease have been identified. The hallmark of PD includes dopamine deficiency (neurotransmitter imbalance) due to the gradual loss of dopaminergic nerves in the sub-stantia nigra in the midbrain. Studying the mutation of associated genes is particularly informative in understanding the fundamental molecular and pathogenic changes in PD. Intracellular accumulation of misfolded or degraded protein due to mutated genes leading to the manifestation of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress followed by multifaceted patho-physiologic symptoms. Other studies include the appearance of both motor and non-motor responses like resting tremor, muscle stiffness, slow movement and anxiety, anaemia, constipation, rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder. Many bioactive natural compounds have shown positive pharmacological results in treating a number of extensive disease models of PD. Despite the availability of end number of potent medicinal plants around the world, limited research has been done associated with various neurological disorders, in-cluding PD. The currently available dopamine-based drug treatments have several side-effects, fur-ther, not effective enough to combat PD completely. Therefore, various plant-based compounds with medicinal benefits have grabbed lots of attention of researchers to deal with various life-threatening neurodegenerative disorders like PD. On the basis of literature available till date, here, we have dis-cussed and addressed the molecular basis, current scenario, and the best possible treatment of PD for the future with minimal or no side-effects using various key bioactive compounds from natural origin/medicinal plants.
The Feasibility of Low-dose Chest CT Acquisition Protocol for the Imaging of COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Atlı Eray , Uyanık Sadık Ahmet , Öğüşlü Umut , Cenkeri Halime Çevik , Yılmaz Birnur , Gümüş Burçak
Published: June 2021

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of low-dose chest CT acquisition
protocol for the imaging of COVID 19 disease or suspects of this disease in adults.

Method:

In this retrospective case-control study, the study group consisted of 141 patients who
were imaged with low dose chest CT acquisition protocol. The control group consisted of 92 patients
who were imaged with standard protocol. Anteroposterior and lateral diameters of chest, effective
diameter and scan length, qualitative and quantitative noise levels, volumetric CT dose index
(CTDIvol), dose length product (DLP), and size-specific dose estimations were compared between
groups.

Results:

Radiation dose reduction by nearly 90% (CTDIvol and DLP values 1.06 mGy and 40.3
mGy.cm vs. 8.07 mGy and 330 mGy.cm, respectively; p < 0.001) was achieved with the use of
low-dose acquisition chest CT protocol. Despite higher image noise with low-dose acquisition protocol,
no significant effect on diagnostic confidence was encountered. Cardiac and diaphragm
movement-related artifacts were similar in both groups (p=0.275). Interobserver agreement was
very good in terms of diagnostic confidence assessment.

Conclusion:

For the imaging of COVID-19 pneumonia or suspects of this disease in adults, lowdose
chest CT acquisition protocol provides remarkable radiation dose reduction without adversely
affecting image quality and diagnostic confidence.
Inferior Vena Cava Thrombus Secondary to Ureteropelvic Junction
Obstruction with Severe Hydronephrosis
Authors: Yeaman Clinton , Peruri Adithya , Rodriguez-Carpio Tania , Sharma Aditya , Ramcharitar Randy , Krupski Tracey , Khaja Minhaj
Published: June 2021

Background:

Benign external compression of the inferior vena cava (IVC) with distal
thrombus formation is seldomly described in the medical literature.

Case Presentations:

We report a case of external IVC compression by a dilated right renal pelvis
and hydronephrotic kidney secondary to longstanding Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ) obstruction
found in a 68-year-old male. Management included therapeutic anticoagulation, IVC filter placement,
attempted thrombectomy by interventional radiology, and interval repeats imaging. This patient
demonstrated complete resolution of the caval thrombus on repeat imaging 2 months following
discharge. This case highlights the importance of interdisciplinary team coordination, a crucial
component of patient’s management and eventual treatment plan. It is reasonable to manage patients
with IVC thrombus with anticoagulation alone.

Conclusion:
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Triazolothiadiazoles Derived
from NSAIDs as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Aytaç Peri , Sahin Irem Durmaz , Atalay Rengül Çetin , Tozkoparan Birsen
Published: June 2021

Background:

Although transplantation, surgical resection, and tumor ablation are treatment options available
following early diagnosis of HCC, poor prognosis and high recurrence rates restrict the efficacy of these approaches.
Hence, small molecules with high selectivity and bioactivity are urgently required.

Objective:

This study presents the synthesis of a series of new triazolothiadiazole derivatives (1a-3j) with NSAID
moieties and their cytotoxic bioactivities.

Methods:

The new synthetic derivatives (1-3; 1a-3j) and NSAIDs ibuprofen, naproxen, and flurbiprofen that commonly
used in clinics were screened against human liver (Huh7), breast (MCF7), and colon (HCT116) carcinoma cell lines
under in vitro conditions via NCI-sulforhodamine B assay.

Results:

The 4-methoxyphenyl substituted condensed derivatives 1h, 2h, and 3h were the most active compounds.
Based on its high potency, compound 3h was selected for the further biological evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma
cell lines, and the mechanisms underlying cell death induced by 3h were determined. The results revealed that compound
3h induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the sub G1 phase in human liver cancer cells.

Conclusion:

These new small molecules may be used for the development of new lead compounds.
Adsorption Equilibrium, Kinetics, Thermodynamics and Dynamic Separation of Magnesium and CalciumIons from Industrial Wastewater by New Strong Acid Cation Resin of SPVC
Authors: Nuriddinova Dilfuza
Published: June 2021

In the research work, the adsorption equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics and dynamic separation of magnesium and calcium ions from industrial wastewater by new strong acid cation resin of SPVC (sulphonated polyvinylchloride) were investigated. The sorption capacity of the studied resin was 3.78 mmol/g and 3.74 mmol/g for magnesium and calcium ions, respectively, according to Langmuir isotherm. It was found that the pseudo−first−order model was better fitted for the adsorption kinetics of magnesium and calcium ions on the resin. The dynamic separation results confirmed that the selected resin effectively separated magnesium and calcium ions from industrial wastewater in the dynamic condition. The change of the standard Gibbs free energy (G) and enthalpy (H), and entropy (S) were calculated. The obtained results confirmed that the adsorption of magnesium and calcium ions on the selected resin is endothermic.
Expansionary Policy in Pandemics, a Dynamic Model Examination
Authors: Gómez-Ramírez Leopoldo , Villarraga-Orjuela Alexander
Published: June 2021

The objective of this paper is to examine the issue of expansionary policies during the pandemic in Mexico. To do so, we use a dynamic model of the interaction between Covid-19 and economic output. We find that expansionary policies are desirable but that they alone cannot prevent the acceleration of the pandemic. We also model supplementary policies, especially public health policies, and find that in their presence expansionary economic policies can put the economy on track while simultaneously addressing the pandemic. Our analysis’s implications are straightforward: countercyclical economic policies are desirable when there are other supplementary policies. A limitation of our analysis is that it is circumscribed to the Mexican context. The paper is a novel contribution to the burgeoning literature on Covid-19 in Mexico because it is the first which formally examines the issue of expansionary policies during the pandemic. We conclude that both expansionary policies and supplementary policies are needed to achieve a sustainable recovery.
Efecto de la educación en la precarización del trabajo en tiempos de la COVID-19 en México
Authors: Rodríguez Juárez Eduardo
Published: June 2021

Esta investigación analizó la relación entre la precarización de las condiciones laborales y el nivel de educación de los trabajadores mexicanos, en los primeros meses de la crisis sanitaria por COVID-19 en México. A través de un análisis sectorial y con datos de panel, para los meses de abril, mayo y junio del 2020, se construyó un índice para evaluar la precariedad laboral en los sectores económicos y se estimó un modelo econométrico para analizar la interacción entre las variables de estudio. Se encuentra que la crisis sanitaria por COVID-19 incrementó la precariedad laboral. Situación que hace imprescindible la construcción de políticas laborales-sectoriales. Su principal restricción es la información, la cual todavía es escasa y limitada en el tiempo. La originalidad de este estudio es su enfoque sectorial y su principal aporte es la evidencia de una relación positiva entre los sectores con mayor precarización y los trabajadores con menores credenciales educativas.
Understanding People’s Use of and Perspectives on Mood-Tracking Apps: Interview Study
Authors: Schueller Stephen M , Neary Martha , Lai Jocelyn , Epstein Daniel A
Published: June 2021

Background

Supporting mental health and wellness is of increasing interest due to a growing recognition of the prevalence and burden of mental health issues. Mood is a central aspect of mental health, and several technologies, especially mobile apps, have helped people track and understand it. However, despite formative work on and dissemination of mood-tracking apps, it is not well understood how mood-tracking apps used in real-world contexts might benefit people and what people hope to gain from them.

Objective

To address this gap, the purpose of this study was to understand motivations for and experiences in using mood-tracking apps from people who used them in real-world contexts.

Methods

We interviewed 22 participants who had used mood-tracking apps using a semistructured interview and card sorting task. The interview focused on their experiences using a mood-tracking app. We then conducted a card sorting task using screenshots of various data entry and data review features from mood-tracking apps. We used thematic analysis to identify themes around why people use mood-tracking apps, what they found useful about them, and where people felt these apps fell short.

Results

Users of mood-tracking apps were primarily motivated by negative life events or shifts in their own mental health that prompted them to engage in tracking and improve their situation. In general, participants felt that using a mood-tracking app facilitated self-awareness and helped them to look back on a previous emotion or mood experience to understand what was happening. Interestingly, some users reported less inclination to document their negative mood states and preferred to document their positive moods. There was a range of preferences for personalization and simplicity of tracking. Overall, users also liked features in which their previous tracked emotions and moods were visualized in figures or calendar form to understand trends. One gap in available mood-tracking apps was the lack of app-facilitated recommendations or suggestions for how to interpret their own data or improve their mood.

Conclusions

Although people find various features of mood-tracking apps helpful, the way people use mood-tracking apps, such as avoiding entering negative moods, tracking infrequently, or wanting support to understand or change their moods, demonstrate opportunities for improvement. Understanding why and how people are using current technologies can provide insights to guide future designs and implementations.
Discovery of Depression-Associated Factors From a Nationwide Population-Based Survey: Epidemiological Study Using Machine Learning and Network Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Nam Sang Min , Peterson Thomas A , Seo Kyoung Yul , Han Hyun Wook , Kang Jee In
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

In epidemiological studies, finding the best subset of factors is challenging when the number of explanatory variables is large.

OBJECTIVE

Our study had two aims. First, we aimed to identify essential depression-associated factors using the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) machine learning algorithm from big survey data (the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2012-2016). Second, we aimed to achieve a comprehensive understanding of multifactorial features in depression using network analysis.

METHODS

An XGBoost model was trained and tested to classify “current depression” and “no lifetime depression” for a data set of 120 variables for 12,596 cases. The optimal XGBoost hyperparameters were set by an automated machine learning tool (TPOT), and a high-performance sparse model was obtained by feature selection using the feature importance value of XGBoost. We performed statistical tests on the model and nonmodel factors using survey-weighted multiple logistic regression and drew a correlation network among factors. We also adopted statistical tests for the confounder or interaction effect of selected risk factors when it was suspected on the network.

RESULTS

The XGBoost-derived depression model consisted of 18 factors with an area under the weighted receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.86. Two nonmodel factors could be found using the model factors, and the factors were classified into direct (P<.05) and indirect (P≥.05), according to the statistical significance of the association with depression. Perceived stress and asthma were the most remarkable risk factors, and urine specific gravity was a novel protective factor. The depression-factor network showed clusters of socioeconomic status and quality of life factors and suggested that educational level and sex might be predisposing factors. Indirect factors (eg, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and smoking) were involved in confounding or interaction effects of direct factors. Triglyceride level was a confounder of hypercholesterolemia and diabetes, smoking had a significant risk in females, and weight gain was associated with depression involving diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

XGBoost and network analysis were useful to discover depression-related factors and their relationships and can be applied to epidemiological studies using big survey data.
Biannual Differences in Interest Peaks for Web Inquiries Into Ear Pain and Ear Drops: Infodemiology Study (Preprint)
Authors: Brkic Faris F , Besser Gerold , Schally Martin , Schmid Elisabeth M , Parzefall Thomas , Riss Dominik , Liu David T
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

The data retrieved with the online search engine, Google Trends, can summarize internet inquiries into specified search terms. This engine may be used for analyzing inquiry peaks for different medical conditions and symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyze World Wide Web interest peaks for “ear pain,” “ear infection,” and “ear drops.”

METHODS

We used Google Trends to assess the public online interest for search terms “ear pain,” “ear infection,” and “ear drops” in 5 English and non–English-speaking countries from both hemispheres based on time series data. We performed our analysis for the time frame between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2019. First, we assessed whether our search terms were most relevant to the topics of ear pain, ear infection, and ear drops. We then tested the reliability of Google Trends time series data using the intraclass correlation coefficient. In a second step, we computed univariate time series plots to depict peaks in web-based interest. In the last step, we used the cosinor analysis to test the statistical significance of seasonal interest peaks.

RESULTS

In the first part of the study, it was revealed that “ear infection,” “ear pain,” and “ear drops” were the most relevant search terms in the noted time frame. Next, the intraclass correlation analysis showed a moderate to excellent reliability for all 5 countries’ 3 primary search terms. The subsequent analysis revealed winter interest peaks for “ear infection” and “ear pain”. On the other hand, the World Wide Web search for “ear drops” peaked annually during the summer months. All peaks were statistically significant as revealed by the cosinor model (all P values <.001).

CONCLUSIONS

It can be concluded that individuals affected by otitis media or externa, possibly the majority, look for medical information online. Therefore, there is a need for accurate and easily accessible information on these conditions in the World Wide Web, particularly on differentiating signs and therapy options. Meeting this need may facilitate timely diagnosis, proper therapy, and eventual circumvention of potentially life-threatening complications.
Personalization of Intervention Timing for Physical Activity: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Chaudhari Saurabh , Ghanvatkar Suparna , Kankanhalli Atreyi
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

The use of sensors in smartphones, smartwatches, and wearable devices has facilitated the personalization of interventions to increase users’ physical activity (PA). Recent research has focused on evaluating the effects of personalized interventions in improving PA among users. However, it is critical to deliver the intervention at an appropriate time to each user to increase the likelihood of adoption of the intervention. Earlier review studies have not focused on the personalization of intervention timing for increasing PA.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to examine studies of information technology–based PA interventions with personalized intervention timing (PIT); identify inputs (eg, user location) used by the system for generating the PIT, the techniques and methods used for generating the PIT, the content of the PA intervention, and delivery mode of the intervention; and identify gaps in existing literature and suggest future research directions.

METHODS

A scoping review was undertaken using PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases based on a structured search query. The main inclusion criteria were as follows: the study aimed to promote PA, included some form of PIT, and used some form of information technology for delivery of the intervention to the user. If deemed relevant, articles were included in this review after removing duplicates and examining the title, abstract, and full text of the shortlisted articles.

RESULTS

The literature search resulted in 18 eligible studies. In this review, 72% (13/18) of the studies focused on increasing PA as the primary objective, whereas it was the secondary focus in the remaining studies. The inputs used to generate the PIT were categorized as user preference, activity level, schedule, location, and predicted patterns. On the basis of the intervention technique, studies were classified as manual, semiautomated, or automated. Of these, the automated interventions were either knowledge based (based on rules or guidelines) or data driven. Of the 18 studies, only 6 (33%) evaluated the effectiveness of the intervention and reported positive outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This work reviewed studies on PIT for PA interventions and identified several aspects of the interventions, that is, inputs, techniques, contents, and delivery mode. The reviewed studies evaluated PIT in conjunction with other personalization approaches such as activity recommendation, with no study evaluating the effectiveness of PIT alone. On the basis of the findings, several important directions for future research are also highlighted in this review.
Correction: Strategies for the Successful Implementation of a Novel iPhone Loaner System (iShare) in mHealth Interventions: Prospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Yang William E , Spaulding Erin M , Lumelsky David , Hung George , Huynh Pauline Phuong , Knowles Kellen , Marvel Francoise A , Vilarino Valerie , Wang Jane , Shah Lochan M , Xun Helen , Shan Rongzi , Wongvibulsin Shannon , Martin Seth S
Published: June 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

N/A
Correction: Constructing High-Fidelity Phenotype Knowledge Graphs for Infectious Diseases With a Fine-Grained Semantic Information Model: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Deng Lizong , Chen Luming , Yang Tao , Liu Mi , Li Shicheng , Jiang Taijiao
Published: June 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

N/A
Quantum-accelerated multilevel Monte Carlo methods for stochastic differential equations in mathematical finance
Authors: An Dong , Linden Noah , Liu Jin-Peng , Montanaro Ashley , Shao Changpeng , Wang Jiasu
Published: June 2021

Inspired by recent progress in quantum algorithms for ordinary and partial differential equations, we study quantum algorithms for stochastic differential equations (SDEs). Firstly we provide a quantum algorithm that gives a quadratic speed-up for multilevel Monte Carlo methods in a general setting. As applications, we apply it to compute expectation values determined by classical solutions of SDEs, with improved dependence on precision. We demonstrate the use of this algorithm in a variety of applications arising in mathematical finance, such as the Black-Scholes and Local Volatility models, and Greeks. We also provide a quantum algorithm based on sublinear binomial sampling for the binomial option pricing model with the same improvement.
Indonesian learners in Australian education environment: perceptions, challenges, and resilience
Authors: Purwati Diana , Silvia Arnis
Published: June 2021

With the economic development of Indonesia in the recent years, there has been a large number of Indonesian students continue their higher education in overseas countries, particularly Australia. Hence, examining their perceptions, challenges and experiences to adapt to the Australian English learning environment becomes an interesting attribute to explore. Drawing on this issue, the in-hand study explores how Indonesian learners dealt with challenges and difficulties in Australian education environment. Employing a qualitative research, this study involved eight Indonesian learners enrolled in English language programs in a number of Australian universities. Using interview as the instrument, the findings showed that the participants perceived a positive perception toward the communication activities during the teaching and learning practices; however, they encountered some difficulties related to grammar instruction within communicative practice. The results of interview further revealed that most of the learning difficulties they experienced were due to their prior exposure and habit to Indonesian teaching and learning styles. The participants further conveyed that enhancing English ability and building confidence were two most possible ways to deal with the difficulties.  These results contribute as fruitful insights for teachers to be aware of different learners’ styles and needs, particularly those coming from various cultural backgrounds, so that they could engage in more interactive teaching and learning activities.
BUSINESS TRENDS OF HALAL AND THOYYIB FOOD DURING THE PANDEMIC: A REVIEW FROM ISLAMIC ECONOMICS IN PONGGOK AND JANTI TOURISM DESTINATIONS
Authors: Setyono Fredi
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore the trends of the halal food business as well as the problems they encounter at hard times and whether they can survive in the current conditions. This study used qualitative research methods through interviews with several food sellers in Ponggok and Janti tourism destinations. The study shows that sellers at Ponggok and Janti, Klaten have been running a halal food business for Islamic economic review. In running their business, sellers sell halal food, not gharar and maysir. However, there are still sellers who did not use the financing and services of the Islamic financial institutions to run their business, some are still using conventional banks to run their business. Hence, it is very difficult for them to have halal certification. During the Covid-19 pandemic, sellers have dropped their sales turnovers resulting in no profit.
THE INFLUENCE OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND JOB INVOLVEMENT ON THE EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE SECTORS MEDIATED BY AFFECTIVE COMMITMENT
Authors: Pamungkas Verlina Dwi , Wulandari Fitri
Published: June 2021

This study aims to analyze the influence of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices and job involvement on the employee performance of the public service sectors mediated by affective commitment. The sample in this study was 105 employees who work in the public sector. This study used path analysis employing the IBM SPSS 22 software. The results of this study indicate that there is a positive and significant influence of HRM practices in the public service sectors on employee performance and there is a positive and significant influence of job involvement on employee performance as well as the positive and significant influence of affective commitment to employee performance. The results also show that affective commitment does not mediate either partially or fully the influence of HRM practices on the performance of employees in the public service sectors. In addition, affective commitment also does not mediate either partially or fully the effect of job involvement on the performance of employees in the public service sectors. The best strategy proposed in this study is how to encourage the role of job involvement in the form of increased participation, work flexibility, empowerment, and wider responsibility to increase affective commitment and employee performance.
Comparative Electricity Generation by Two Locally Produced Corncob Pyrochar Electrodes and Graphite using Microbial Fuel Cell Technology
Authors: Bishir Musa , Tariq Marium , Wüst Dominik , Schleicher Lena , Steuber Julia , Kruse Andrea
Published: June 2021

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is an evolving technology for anaerobic
bioenergy generation using electrodes and organic wastewater as a
feedstock for catabolic activities of electrogenic bacteria and
subsequent electricity generation. The search for suitable inexpensive
electrode materials remains the leading interest of researchers in this
field. The work here focused on comparative bioelectricity generation
from HTC process water (pH = 5.99) and treated–biogas digestate (pH =
7.97) using locally developed corncob pyrochar electrodes and graphite
in dual-chambered microbial fuel cells (MFC). The electrodes used in
this study were graphite rod (non-porous and very low surface area),
KOH–activated corncob pyrochar (KAC) of BET surface area, 1626 m2 g-1
and steam activated corncob pyrochar (SAC) with 485.8 m2 g-1. The
highest power outputs achieved were 323.8 µW and 316.8 µW from HTC
process water with SAC and KAC electrodes respectively at an external
load of 47 Ω. The initial COD (48780 mg L-1), DOC (4000 mg L-1), and TNb
(5600 mg L-1) of the biogas digestate decreased significantly to 36405,
3610 and 4300 mg L-1 respectively in the MFC with KOH-activated corncob
pyrochar electrodes. The MFC operated with KAC electrode and treated
biogas digestate was the most efficient having Coulombic efficiency of
75 % in a comparatively shorter residence time of MFC operation than
the MFC with SAC electrode which had a lower Coulombic efficiency of 64
%.
Identifying cultural, climatic and temporal factors influencing Striga asiatica abundance within rice--maize systems in mid-west Madagascar
Authors: Scott Donald , Scholes Julie , Randrianjafizanaka Meva , Autfray Patrice , Randriamampianina Jean , Freckleton Rob
Published: June 2021

The parasitic weed genus Striga causes huge losses to crop production in
sub-Saharan Africa, estimated to be in excess of $7 billion per year,
affecting subsistence farmers who frequently lack access to novel
technologies proposed for control. Effective Striga management therefore
requires the development of strategies utilising existing cultural and
management practices. We report a multi-year, landscape-scale monitoring
project for Striga asiatica in the mid-west of Madagascar, undertaken
over 2019-2020 with the aims of examining cultural, climatic and edaphic
factors currently driving abundance and distribution. Long-distance
transects were established across the middle-west region of Madagascar,
over which Striga asiatica abundance in fields was estimated. Analysis
of the data highlights the importance of crop variety and legumes in
driving Striga density. Moreover, the dataset revealed significant
effect of precipitation seasonality, mean temperature and altitude in
determining abundance. A composite management index indicated the effect
of a range of cultural practices on changes in Striga abundance. The
findings support the assertion that single measures are not sufficient
for the effective, long-term management of Striga. Furthermore, the
composite score has potential as a significant guide of ISM control
beyond the geographic range of this study.
Staged surgery for advanced cardiac intimal sarcoma involving the right atrium and the inferior vena cava
Authors: Chen Yu-An , Li Yueh , Lee Jen-chieh , CHEN JENG-WEI
Published: June 2021

Intimal sarcomas simultaneously involving the right atrium and the
inferior vena cava are rare. We report an advanced cardiac intimal
sarcoma in the right atrium of a 19-year-old man that was complicated by
tumor-related inferior vena cava thrombosis. We initially performed
partial tumor resection and vena cava thrombectomy to resolve the
circulatory obstruction, because complete resection was difficult due to
the invading malignancy and an unclear margin. The patient received
adjuvant chemo- and radiotherapy along with anticoagulant therapy. After
3 months, the border of the residual sarcoma was clear, and the patient
underwent a secondary complete sarcoma excision (including that of the
right atrium) and a suprahepatic vena cava reconstruction. At the 2-year
follow-up, there was no tumor recurrence. We conclude that aggressive
treatment and a staged complete resection can lead to improved outcomes
for advanced cardiac intimal sarcoma with poor prognosis.
Low-temperature sintering of high-siliceous clay under conditions of oxygen deficiency
Authors: Aguilar Pedro , Nicolas Mario , Kakazey Mykola , Tapia Rene , Cano Marcos , Matus Roberto , Pi Puig , Nava Manuel , Vlasova Marina
Published: June 2021

In the work, the processes of phase reconstruction and properties of ceramics
obtained from high-siliceous clay-sand, clay-cullet, and clay-sand-cullet
mixtures are considered. It is possible to perform plastic molding of blanks
from the given mixtures due to the presence of montmorillonite in clay and
sand and sintering at 800 oC for 8 h under conditions of oxygen deficiency.
Depending on the composition of the initial mixtures, specimens ranging in
color from gray to black can be obtained. It has been established by the
XRD, IR spectroscopy, and electron microscopy methods that the synthesized
material is glass ceramics consisting of quartz, feldspars, and a glass
phase. Depending on the content of the initial components in the mixtures,
it is possible to obtain glass ceramics with high strength properties or
coarse-pored glass ceramics whose properties are similar to those of foamed
ceramics.
Effect оf delamination оn physico-chemical properties of kaolin
Authors: Mihajlovic Slavica , Vlahovic Milica , Vusovic Nenad , Djordjevic Natasa , Jovanovic Marina
Published: June 2021

To provide the quality required for its use, raw kaolin must be subjected to
certain processing procedures like delamination which is applied to the
layered structure materials. The aim of this research is to determine the
possibility of performing delamination in the extruder and to estimate the
effects of this process on the physico-chemical properties of kaolin. The
results showed that delamination can be efficiently realized in the extruder
by shearing densely packed layers under the influence of friction force and
added Na2CO3 electrolyte. The crystal structure of the system was thus
disrupted. This was confirmed by the Hinckley index (HI) decrease and by the
dilatometric characteristics changes during heating. The particle size was
reduced and, furthermore, new adsorption centers were formed, which led to
an increase in the total cation exchange capacity (CEC). The plasticity of
kaolin decreased with the increasing delamination degree, as well as the
amount of water required for plastic processing, which is favorable in
drying ceramic products.
1000-P: Plasma Water T2 Monitors Cardiometabolic Health and Improves with Lifestyle Modification
Authors: CISTOLA DAVID P. , PATEL RINKAL , CAMPBELL ERIN , PATEL VIPULKUMAR , DWIVEDI ALOK K.
Published: June 2021

Plasma water T2 is a screening tool for cardiometabolic health. It detects hidden insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and inflammation. To assess the response of T2 to lifestyle changes, we are conducting an ancillary study of PREMIER. The parent PREMIER trial evaluated the effect of lifestyle interventions on blood pressure. Many subjects had insulin resistance, prediabetes and/or metabolic syndrome. The interventions included physical activity, weight loss, ↓sodium and alcohol, and the DASH diet.

Hypothesis: Plasma water T2 increases (improves) with PREMIER interventions.

Methods: Subjects (n=810) were randomized into 3 arms: established, established+DASH and advice only. The subjects were 62% female, 34% black, age 50.0±8.9 years. Inclusion criteria were age ≥25, ↑BP and BMI 18.5-45.0 kg/m2. Exclusion criteria were diabetes, prior CV event, heart failure, cancer or psychiatric hospitalization within 2 yrs. In the ancillary study, mixed effects models were used to assess T2 values at 6- and 18-months post-intervention, after adjusting for baseline T2 and other co-variates. Multiple means comparisons used Dunnett’s test.

Results: Model 1 adjusted for baseline T2, BMI, visit and treatment group as fixed effects, with nested subject ID-recruitment site as random effects. All three arms showed progressive increases in T2 at 6 and 18 mo, but were significant at 18 mo. Mean T2 at 18 mo for the established+DASH and advice-only arms were 792.8 ms (95% CI: 782.7, 802.8; p=0.0027) and 794.4 ms (95% CI: 784.5, 804.3; p=0.0006), respectively, compared with 767.5 ms (95% CI: 757.9, 777.0) for baseline controls. Similar results were seen in Model 2, which adjusted for fitness level measured by treadmill.

Conclusion: Plasma water T2 values detected global improvement in cardiometabolic health after 18 months of PREMIER interventions, even after adjusting for BMI and fitness. Early T2 screening and monitoring, paired with a simple lifestyle change, is effective for improving cardiometabolic health.

Disclosure

D. P. Cistola: None. R. Patel: None. E. Campbell: None. V. Patel: None. A. K. Dwivedi: None.

Funding

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (R21HL143030)
1004-P: The Influence of Body Mass Index in Mixed-Ancestry South Africans on the Ability of A1C and Glycated Albumin to Detect Dysglycemia
Authors: KENGNE ANDRE PASCAL , MATSHA TANDI E. , SACKS DAVID B. , ZEMLIN ANNALISE E. , ERASMUS RAJIV T. , SUMNER ANNE E.
Published: June 2021

As A1C and glycated albumin (GA) correlate in opposite directions with body mass index (BMI), combining these two biomarkers has led to improved detection of dysglycemia. As this has not been studied in Africa, we assessed in 1274 mixed ancestry South Africans in Cape Town with no prior history of diabetes (male 26%; obese 40%; mean age 48±16y), the correlation of A1C and GA with BMI and the sensitivity of A1C and GA separately and jointly in detecting OGTT diagnosed dysglycemia. A1C and GA levels were obtained. OGTT performed. Dysglycemia was defined as either newly detected diabetes (FPG≥7.0 mmol/L and/or 2hPG≥11.1 mmol/L) or prediabetes (6.1≥FPG<7.0 mmol/L and/or 7.8<2hPG<11.1 mmol/L). Dysglycemia occurred in 24% of participants (prediabetes: 17%, diabetes:7%). By robust analysis, the correlation between BMI and A1C was positive [r=0.34 [95%CI: 0.29-0.39)] and negative for BMI and GA [-0.08 (-0.13- -0.03)]. The C-statistic for A1C diagnosis of dysglycemia in the total cohort was 0.77 (95%CI: 0.73-0.80) and for GA was 0.67 (0.64-0.71). In the nonobese the C-statistic for A1C was 0.71 (0.65-0.76) and for GA was 0.68 (0.62-0.73). In the obese the C-statistic for A1C was 0.79 (0.74-0.83) and for GA was 0.69 (0.64-0.74). Optimal thresholds by Youden index for dysglycemia diagnosis by A1C was 6.0% (95%CI: 5.8-6.2) and for GA was 13.44% (12.72-14.71). At these thresholds, sensitivities for A1C-alone, GA-alone, and A1C+GA in the total cohort were 63% (95%CI: 57-68), 53% (47-59) and 76% (71-81); in the nonobese were 51% (42-60), 55% (46-63) and 69% (60-76); and in the obese 72% (65-78), 52% (44-59) and 82% (75-87), resp. In short, this is the first demonstration in Africa of the positive correlation between A1C and BMI and the negative correlation between GA and BMI. The inverse correlations of A1C and GA with BMI may explain why there is improved detection of dysglycemia in the nonobese when the two biomarkers were combined and has important implications for screening.

Disclosure

A. Kengne: None. T. E. Matsha: None. D. B. Sacks: Research Support; Self; Sebia, Trinity Biotech plc. A. E. Zemlin: None. R. T. Erasmus: None. A. E. Sumner: None.
1010-P: Prevalence of Acute Diabetes Complications following Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: VISKOCHIL RICHARD , PAULECK SVENJA , WINN MACI , FUNAI KATSU , LITCHMAN MICHELLE L. , AKERLEY WALLACE , COLMAN HOWARD , ULRICH CORNELIA M. , PLAYDON MARY C. , HARDIKAR SHEETAL
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Multiple case studies have reported diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in recently-diagnosed cancer patients, especially those taking immune checkpoint inhibitors. The prevalence of DKA and other acute diabetes complications (ADC), including hypoglycemia and hyperosmolarity, and their relationship with the onset of systemic cancer therapy is unclear.

Methods: This study utilized data from n=9,588 cancer patients from the Huntsman Cancer Institute, UT. Data on clinicodemographic characteristics, biomarkers, and cancer diagnoses were extracted from electronic medical records (EMR) and tumor registry. Patients included in this analysis received an ICD diagnosis of hypoglycemia, hyperosmolarity with or without coma, and/or DKA with or without coma. Systemic therapy was defined as any chemotherapy, immunotherapy or hormone therapy resulting from a specific first primary cancer diagnosis.

Results: There were 243 instances of ADC within this cohort, occurring in 211 (2.2%) unique patients. Of these 211 unique patients with an ADC, 106 (50.0%) experienced their first ADC within one year after cancer diagnosis, with a median time to ADC diagnosis of 88 days. Forty-seven (44%) of these patients experienced the ADC following the onset of systemic therapy, with a median time from systemic therapy onset to ADC diagnosis of 120 days. In these 47 patients who received an ADC diagnosis following the onset of systemic therapy, 40 (85.1%) received chemotherapy (n=20 as monotherapy), 20 (42.6%) received immunotherapy (n=4 as monotherapy) and 12 (25.5%) received hormone therapy (n=2 as monotherapy). Only 54% of patients experiencing an ADC after cancer diagnosis had a history of diabetes prior to cancer, and on average their first diabetes diagnosis was 5.4 ± 4.4 years prior to their cancer diagnosis.

Discussion: ADCs may be common following a cancer diagnosis, however a substantial number occurred prior to the onset of systemic cancer therapy and in patients with no prior history of diabetes.

Disclosure

R. Viskochil: None. S. Hardikar: None. S. Pauleck: None. M. Winn: None. K. Funai: None. M. L. Litchman: Research Support; Self; Abbott Diabetes. W. Akerley: None. H. Colman: Advisory Panel; Self; Adastra Pharmaceuticals, Orbus Therapeutics, Consultant; Self; Best Doctors/Teladoc. C. M. Ulrich: None. M. C. Playdon: None.

Funding

University of Utah Health/Larry H. Miller Family Wellness Initiative
1014-P: The Impact of Baseline A1C and Admission Glucose on Mortality among Patients with Diabetes Hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: BRANCALE JOSEPH , ATHONVARANGKUL DIANA , SIMONOV MICHAEL , ALAUSA JAMEEL , SUBAIR LABEEBAH K. , HAJDUK ALEXANDRA M. , KANG YU MI , ARORA TANIMA , WILSON FRANCIS P. , JASTREBOFF ANIA M. , LIPSKA KASIA J.
Published: June 2021

We sought to determine the associations between hemoglobin A1c (A1c) and admission glucose with in-hospital mortality among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) hospitalized with COVID-19.

Adults hospitalized between 3/5/20 and 12/1/20 in a Connecticut health care system were included if they had prior DM diagnosis, an in-hospital A1c, and a positive RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2. A1c was stratified into <7%, 7-<9%, and ≥9%. Both bivariate and multi-variable adjusted logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association of A1c categories and admission glucose >200 mg/dL with mortality (in-hospital death or transition to hospice) and with intensive care unit (ICU) use. Models were adjusted for demographics and 8 relevant comorbidities.

Among 733 patients (median age 67 years [interquartile range, 56-77], 48.3% female, 43.11% White, 35.47% Black, 24.97% Hispanic, 1.64% Asian), 31.7% had A1c <7%, 40.5% 7-<9%, 27.8% ≥9%, and 38.1% admission glucose >200 mg/dL. During hospitalization, 111 (15.1%) patients died or transitioned to hospice and 230 (31.4%) required ICU care. In 2 multi-variable adjusted analyses, neither A1c category nor high admission glucose were significantly associated with mortality (A1c 7-<9%: OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.53-1.49; A1c >9% OR 1.3, CI 0.72-2.35 compared with A1c <7%; glucose >200 OR 1.34, CI 0.72-2.35) or ICU care (A1c 7-<9% OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.88-1.93; A1c ≥9% OR 1.35, CI 0.86-2.1 compared with A1c <7%; glucose >200 OR 1.26, CI 0.9-1.78). Age (per year OR 1.06, CI 1.04-1.08), male sex (OR 1.78, CI 1.14-2.81), obesity (OR 1.85, CI 1.16-2.96) and CKD (OR 1.90, CI 1.19-3.03) were significantly associated with mortality. Only female sex (OR 0.67, CI 0.48-0.93) was significantly associated with ICU care.

In our retrospective study of hospitalized patients with DM, neither A1c nor admission glucose were prognostic of COVID-19 mortality or ICU care. In those with DM, male sex, obesity and CKD predicted worse outcomes.

Disclosure

J. Brancale: None. A. M. Jastreboff: Consultant; Self; Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Eli Lilly and Company, Novo Nordisk, Other Relationship; Spouse/Partner; Elucidata. K. J. Lipska: None. D. Athonvarangkul: None. M. Simonov: None. J. Alausa: None. L. K. Subair: None. A. M. Hajduk: None. Y. Kang: None. T. Arora: None. F. P. Wilson: Other Relationship; Self; Efference LLC, Medscape.

Funding

National Institutes of Health (1T32GM136651-01)
104-LB: Assessing Infusion Site Reactions with URLi in Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion
Authors: IGNAUT DEBRA A. , CHO JANG IK , ELPERS JOHN C. , CHIGUTSA FARAI B. , PIRAS DE OLIVEIRA CAROLINA
Published: June 2021

Background: In phase 3 trials, ultra rapid lispro (URLi) showed superior postprandial glucose control and non-inferior HbA1c reduction compared to Humalog® (Lispro). However, infusion site reactions (combined; ISRs) were more frequent with URLi.

Methods: We examined whether occurrence of ISRs was related to any intrinsic or extrinsic factors by analyzing data from the 16-week PRONTO-Pump-2 trial in patients with T1D (URLi, N=215; Humalog, N=217) between randomization and end of treatment period.

Results: The most frequently reported adverse events (AEs) were infusion site reaction (URLi, n=41 [19.1%]; Humalog, n=15 [6.9%]) and infusion site pain (URLi, n=34 [15.8%]; Humalog, n=6 [2.8%]). ISRs were reported by 37.7% of patients on URLi and 10.1% on Humalog. Most ISRs with URLi started in the first 4 weeks after randomization, were primarily mild in severity (~76%) and lasted a median of 2-6 days, depending on the type of reaction. Individual ISRs resolved during the study, but another event could occur with a different infusion set/site. Overall, 7 (3.3%) patients discontinued URLi treatment due to ISRs, 6 within the first 4 weeks after randomization and 1 at week 6. Gender, age, BMI, ethnicity, race, infusion set model, bolus speed, total daily dose, duration of diabetes and duration of insulin pump use did not impact incidence of ISRs between treatments. However, significant treatment-by-subgroup interactions were observed for cannula length (6mm vs. >6mm; p=0.070) and region (US vs. non-US; p=0.046): incidence of ISRs with cannula length >6mm and incidence of ISRs in US was similar between treatments, but a higher incidence of ISRs was observed with URLi when cannula length was 6 mm or in non-US regions.

Conclusions: Infusion site reaction and infusion site pain were the most frequently reported AEs, although most were mild and resolved in less than a week. Differential treatment effects on ISR occurrence were seen with cannula length or region. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Disclosure

D. A. Ignaut: Employee; Self; Eli Lilly and Company. J. Cho: None. J. C. Elpers: Employee; Self; Eli Lilly and Company. F. B. Chigutsa: None. C. Piras de Oliveira: Employee; Self; Eli Lilly and Company. Stock/Shareholder; Self; Eli Lilly and Company.

Funding

Eli Lilly and Company