bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation Into The Machining Performance in Axial Ultrasonic Vibration–Assisted Cutting of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Sui He , Zhang Lifeng , Wang Shuang , Gu Zhaojun
Published: April 2021

Axial ultrasonic vibration-assisted cutting (AUVC) has proved to have better machining performance compared with conventional cutting methods; however, the effect of numerous and complex influencing factors on machining performance has not been clearly revealed and a recommended combination of cutting conditions has not been proposed yet, especially for difficult-to-machine material such as Ti6Al4V alloy. This paper focuses on experimental and theoretical investigation into machining performance when cutting Ti6Al4V with the AUVC method. First, a retrospective of the separation characteristics of AUVC is provided and the variable parameter cutting characteristics are demonstrated. We classify the influencing factors on machining performance into four categories: machining parameters, vibration parameters, tool choice, and cooling conditions. The relationship between these factors in terms of their effect on machining performance is established theoretically. Then, it describes experiments to determine the influence of these factors on cutting force, tool life, and surface roughness. For absolute influence, the orders for cutting force, tool life, and surface roughness are respectively cutting depth > amplitude > feed rate > rotation speed, rotation speed > feed rate > amplitude > cutting depth, and feed rate > amplitude > cutting depth > rotation speed. However, for relative influence, the order is unified as: amplitude > feed rate > rotation speed > cutting depth. Finally, it suggests a smaller feed rate, larger amplitude, moderate rotation speed, and smaller cutting depth in addition to a WC tool coated with TiAlN and used under HPC cooling condition for optimal performance of AUVC. This recommendation is based on the theoretical analysis and experimental results of cutting force, surface roughness, and tool life.
Temporal Patterns in Offshore Bird Abundance During the Breeding Season at the Dutch North Sea Coast
Authors: Erp Jens Auke van , Loon E. Emiel , Camphuysen Kees J. , Shamoun-Baranes Judy
Published: April 2021

The expanding development of offshore wind farms brings a growing concern about the human impact on seabirds. To assess this impact a better understanding of offshore bird abundance is needed. The aim of this study was to investigate offshore bird abundance in the breeding season and model the effect of predictable environmental factors. We used a bird radar, situated at the edge of a wind farm (52.427827°N, 4.185345°E), to record hourly aerial bird abundance at the North Sea near the Dutch coast between May 1st and July 15th in 2019 and 2020.The effect of sun position, week in the breeding season, and astronomic tide on hourly bird abundance was evaluated using generalized additive modelling. Sun position and week in the breeding season had a modest and statistically significant (p<0.001) effect on bird abundance, while astronomic tide did not. Predicted abundance was higher during the day than during the night, with highest abundance in the morning. Abundance increased throughout the breeding season until the end of June, but decreased again in July. In total the model explained 18.5% of deviance in bird abundance, indicating offshore bird abundance is partially dependent on predictable external factors. The high variability in bird abundance at scales ranging from hours up to weeks emphasizes the need for long term and continuous data which radar technology can provide. The findings of this study can help improve offshore bird density estimations and provide context on the temporal fluctuations in bird abundance for marine policy making.
Faculty attendance and perception of virtual educational conferences in pediatric emergency medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Horn Ngoc Van , McConnell Jennifer , Nesiama Jo-Ann O. , Feng Sing-Yi
Published: April 2021

Background:

Attendance of in-person didactic conferences is a key component of graduate medical education and training in pediatric emergency medicine. Faculty participation in didactic conferences is important, although challenges to attendance exist. The SARS CoV-2 global pandemic disrupted in-person medical education and forced migration to virtual learning. Our goal was to describe how the change to virtual learning affected pediatric emergency medicine conference attendance by faculty in the division at a large academic medical center. Participants were also surveyed to provide insight into perceptions of virtual conferences.
Methods:

Faculty attendance of in-person conferences (fellow conference from 2017–2020, resident conference from 2019–2020) was compared to attendance of virtual conferences (April - June 2020). Conference participants were surveyed to assess attitudes towards the virtual format. Descriptive statistics were used to describe variables.
Results:

The transition to virtual learning increased pediatric emergency medicine faculty attendance of all conferences. Fellows conference attendance increased from 11.8–49.2% of available faculty (3.3 to 13.8 out of 28) (95% CI -14.0 to -9.09 p < 0.001). Resident conference attendance increased from 18.3–58.9% of available faculty (5.12 to 16.5 out of 28) (95% CI -20.89 to -8.60 p < 0.001). Survey response rate including fellows and residents was 67.5% (52/77), with 88.2% of faculty members responding to the survey (30/34). Most respondents (75%) regarded the virtual format as better or equal to in-person. All respondents (100%) indicated they would keep the option to virtually attend conference in the future.
Conclusions:

Virtual conferences increased faculty attendance in both fellow and resident pediatric emergency medicine educational conferences. It was well received by participants, and most would like to continue virtual learning in the future.
Association of flow rate of prehospital oxygen administration and clinical outcomes in severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Hong Won Pyo , Hong Ki Jeong , Shin Sang Do , Song Kyoung Jun , Kim Tae Han , Park Jeong Ho , Ro Young Sun , Lee Seung Chul , Kim Chu Hyun
Published: April 2021

Background To prevent hypoxia during prehospital phase is important in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) but optimal flow rate of prehospital oxygen supply is controversial. The goal of this study is to investigate the association of prehospital oxygen administration flow on clinical outcome in severe TBI patients. Methods This is a cross-sectional observational study using emergency medical services assessed severe trauma database in South Korea. In 2013 and 2015, adult patients with severe blunt TBI (abbreviated injury scale ≥3 in head lesion) without hypoxia (< 94% of oxygen saturation in prehospital pulse oximetry) were included. Main exposure was prehospital oxygen administration flow rate (no oxygen, 1~5 L/min, 6~14 L/min, 15 L/min). Primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to association of prehospital oxygen supply and outcomes. Results 1,842 patients with severe TBI were included. The number of patients with no oxygen, low-flow oxygen (1~5 L/min), mid-flow oxygen (6~14 L/min), high-flow oxygen (15 L/min) was 244, 573, 607 and 418. Mortality of each group was 34.8%, 32.3%, 39.9% and 41.1%. Compared with no-oxygen group, adjusted odds (95% CI) for mortality in the low, mid, high-flow oxygen groups were 0.86 (0.62–1.20), 1.15 (0.83–1.60) and 1.21 (0.83–1.73). In the interaction analysis, low-flow oxygen showed lower mortality when prehospital saturation was 94-98% (adjusted odds ratio(AOR): 0.80 [0.67–0.95]) and ≥99% (AOR: 0.69 [0.53–0.91]). High-flow oxygen (15 L/min) showed higher mortality when prehospital saturation was ≥99% in pulse oximetry (AOR: 1.33[1.01~1.74]). Conclusions Prehospital low-flow oxygen administration was associated with lower in-hospital mortality compared with the no-oxygen group in severe TBI patients. High-flow oxygen administration showed higher mortality. Optimal flow of prehospital oxygenation according prehospital saturation could reduce mortality in severe TBI. Trial registration This study used cases retrospectively registered in the emergency medical services assessed severe trauma database.
Differential migratory movements of geographically distinct wintering populations of a soaring bird
Authors: Ogawa Ryo , Wang Guiming , King D. Tommy , Burger L. Wes , Davis J. Brian , Strickland Bronson K. , Sovada Marsha A. , Cunningham Fred L.
Published: April 2021

Background: Migratory soaring birds exhibit spatiotemporal variation in their circannual movements. We hypothesized that the circadian and seasonal movements of soaring migrants may depend primarily on exogenous factors such as thermals and wind conditions. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain how different winter environments affect the circannual movement patterns of migratory soaring birds. Here, we investigated annual movement strategies of American white pelicans Pelecanus erythrorhynchos (hereafter, AWPE) from two geographically distinct wintering grounds in the Southern and Northern Gulf of Mexico (GOM). Methods: We calculated average and maximum hourly movement distances and seasonal home ranges of GPS-tracking AWPEs. We then evaluated the effects of circadian hours, seasons, two wintering regions in the Southern and Northern GOM, human footprint index, and relative AWPE abundance from Christmas Bird Count data on AWPE hourly movement distances and seasonal home ranges using linear mixed models and generalized linear mixed models. Results: American white pelicans moved at the highest speed near 1200 hours at breeding grounds and during spring and autumn migrations. Both wintering populations in the Northern and Southern GOM exhibited similar hourly movement distances and seasonal home ranges at the shared breeding grounds and during spring and autumn migrations. However, AWPEs wintering in the Southern GOM showed shorter hourly movement distances and smaller seasonal home ranges than those in the Northern GOM. Hourly movement distances and home ranges of AWPEs increased with increasing human footprint index.Conclusions: Winter hourly movements and home ranges of AWPEs differed between the Northern and Southern GOM; however, the difference in AWPE winter movements did not carry over to the shared breeding grounds during summers. Therefore, exogenous factors may be the primary drivers to shape the flying patterns of migratory soaring birds.
Intranasal Administration of Neuropeptide Y Significantly Antagonized Chronic Stress Responses via Central Gabaa Receptors in Male Rats
Authors: Yang Yu , Yu Haijie , Babygirija Reji , Shi Bei , Sun Weinan , Zheng Xiaojiao , Zheng Jun
Published: April 2021

Stress is widely believed to play a major role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Central neuropeptide Y (NPY) counteracts the biological actions of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), and in turn attenuates stress responses. Administration (intracerebroventricular, ICV) of NPY, significantly antagonized the inhibitory effects of chronic complicated stress (CCS) on gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility in rats. However, ICV administration is an invasive technique. The effect of intranasal administration of NPY on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and GI motility in CCS conditions have not been studied, and the inhibitory mechanism of NPY on CRF through the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor needs to be further investigated. A CCS rat model was set up, NPY was intranasal administered every day prior to the stress loading. Further, a GABAA receptor antagonist was ICV injected daily. Central CRF and NPY expression were evaluated, serum corticosterone and NPY levels were analyzed, and colonic motor functions was assessed. CCS rats showed significantly increased CRF expression and corticosterone levels, which resulted in enhanced colonic motor functions. Intranasal NPY significantly increased central NPY mRNA expression and reduced central CRF mRNA expression as well as the plasma corticosterone level, helping to restore colonic motor functions. However, ICV administration of the GABAA receptor antagonist significantly abolished these effects. Intranasal administration of NPY upregulates the hypothalamic NPY system. NPY may, through the GABAA receptor, significantly antagonize the overexpressed central CRF and attenuate the HPA axis activities in CCS conditions, exerting influences and helping to restore colonic motor function.
Application of Endoport-Assisted Neuroendoscopic Techniques in Lateral Ventricular Tumor Surgery
Authors: Yan Chaolong , Yan Huiying , Jin Wei
Published: April 2021

PurposeThe aim of this study was to review the experience of Endoport-assisted neuroendoscopic surgery for lateral ventricular tumors resection, investigate the therapeutic efficiency and discuss the key points. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 16 patients suffering from lateral ventricular tumors. All the patients received Endoport-assisted neuroendoscopic surgery from January 2018 to June 2020 in the department of neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School. ResultsAll the patients received standardized treatment according to the preoperative image data and the postoperative pathology of the tumors. Endoport-assisted Neuroendoscopic surgery achieved complete removal of lateral ventricular tumors in 14 cases (87.5%) and subtotal removal in 2 cases (12.5%, glioma). The perioperative complications were analyzed, 1 acute epidural hematoma occurred during surgery, 1 hemiplegia and 2 obstructive hydrocephalus occurred after surgery. All the complications were managed timely. During the long-time follow up, the patient with glioblastoma died 16 months after surgery, the other patients are still alive with Glasgow outcome scales not less than 4.ConclusionEndoport-assisted neuroendoscopic surgery is suitable for the resection of lateral ventricular tumors. This procedure is simple, effective, minimally invasive, and associated with fast postoperative recovery.
Nursing piglet ionomics-metabolome responses to different dietary copper levels in antibiotic-free creep feed
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zheng Weijiang , Xue Yongqiang , Yao Wen
Published: April 2021

Background: Ionomics is a novel method to investigate the mechanism underlying the cross-talk and homeostasis of trace elements in animals. Research has not yet determined the composition and distribution of trace elements in piglets and their variations under diverse dietary high-level copper. Results: In this study, the growth performance was calculated from 180 nursing piglets which access to antibiotic-free creep feed including different copper level: 6, 20, and 300 mg·kg-1 Cu (CuSO4), and offered ad libitum from d 14 until weaning at 40 days of age. In HC (300 mg·kg-1 Cu ) group, the average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) increased during d 14 to 28, but ADG was decreased with extension of feeding time (d 29 to 40). The ionomics profiles (hair, serum, and feces) and the correlations with serum and fecal metabolites were further analyzed. The hair Na, K, Cu, and fecal Cu concentrations were increased in HC group than other groups. The hair Na and K were negatively correlated with serum TNF-α and fecal inosine, while positively correlated with serum insulin-like growth factors-1 (IGF-1); the hair Cu was negatively correlated with serum malondialdehyde (MDA), total bile acid (TBA) and fecal putrescine, glucose-6-phosphate, fumaric acid; the fecal Cu was positively correlated with serum growth hormone, negatively correlated with fecal methionine, pantothenic acid, and uracil. Further metabolic pathway enrichment analysis showed that the hair Cu was negatively correlated with phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism and mitochondrial electron transport chain pathways; fecal Cu was negatively correlated with betaine metabolism, and pantothenate, and CoA biosynthesis pathways. Conclusions: Dietary 300 mg·kg-1 copper promoted growth in the short term, and altered the ion balance, further affected the metabolic homeostasis, harm to the health of piglets; dietary 20 mg·kg-1 copper maintain ion homeostasis due to preservation of the interactions between macro and micro elements and suitable to meet the nutritional needs of nursing piglets. These results may benefit people to understand the molecular mechanism of ionomics effects on human and piglets’ health.
Effect of roof colour on indoor temperature and human comfort levels, with implications for malaria control: a pilot study using experimental houses in rural Gambia
Authors: Carrasco-Tenezaca Majo , Jawara Musa , Bradley John , Pinder Margaret , D’Alessandro Umberto , Knudsen Jakob , Lindsay Steve
Published: April 2021

Background

In rural sub-Saharan Africa, thatch roofs are being replaced by metal roofs. Metal roofing, however, increases indoor temperatures above human comfort levels, and thus makes it more likely that residents will not use an insecticide-treated bednet (ITN) at night. We assessed whether the colour of a metal roof affects indoor temperature and human comfort.
Methods

Two identical, experimental houses were constructed with metal roofs in rural Gambia. Roof types were: (1) original bare-metal, (2) painted with red oxide primer or (3) white gloss, to reflect solar radiation. Pairwise comparisons were run in six, five-night blocks during the malaria season 2018. Indoor climate was measured in each house and multivariate analysis used to compare indoor temperatures during the day and night.
Results

From 21.00 h to 23.59 h, when most residents decide whether to use an ITN or not, the indoor temperature of a house with a bare metal roof was 31.5 ºC (95%CI = 31.2–31.8 ºC), a red roof, 30.3 ºC (95%CI = 30.0-30.6) and a white roof, 29.8 ºC (95%CI = 29.4–30.1). During the same period, red-roofed houses were 1.23 oC cooler (95%CI = 1.22–1.23) and white roofs 1.74 oC cooler (95%CI = 1.70–1.79) than bare-metal roofed houses (p < 0.001). Similar results were found from 00.00 h to 06.00 h. Maximum daily temperatures were 0.93 oC lower in a white-roofed house (95%CI = 0.10–0.30, p < 0.001), but not a red roof (mean maximum temperature difference = 0.44 oC warmer, 95%CI = 0.43–0.45, p = 0.081), compared with the bare-metal roofed houses. Human comfort analysis showed that from 21.00 h to 23.59 h houses with white roofs (comfortable for 87% time) were more comfortable than bare-metal roofed houses (comfortable for 13% time; odds ratio = 43.7, 95%CI:27.5–69.5, p < 0.001). The cost of painting a metal roof white is approximately 31–68 USD.
Conclusions

Houses with a white roof were consistently cooler and more comfortable than those with a bare metal roof. Painting the roofs of houses white is a cheap way of making a dwelling more comfortable for the occupants and could potentially increase bed-net use in hot humid countries.
Tolerability of MenACWY-TT Vaccination in Toddlers in the Netherlands; A Questionnaire Study
Authors: Kemmeren Jeanet , Balveren L. van , Kant A. , Melker H de
Published: April 2021

Background: In May 2018, the monovalent MenC-TT conjugate vaccine given at 14 months of age within the National Immunization Programme in the Netherlands was replaced by a 4-valent MenACWY-TT conjugate vaccine. Methods: Results from a questionnaire about local reactions and systemic events within 4 days after vaccination were compared with data from a comparable tolerability study of a monovalent MenC-TT vaccine. Results: The response rate was 5.5% (1157/20966 questionnaires). Any local reaction was reported for 3.7% of the toddlers, with the highest percentage found for local redness at the injection site (2.9%). Any systemic event was reported for 32.4% of the toddlers, with listlessness (22.4%) most often reported. Fever was the only symptom more frequently reported after MenACWY-TT vaccination compared with MenC-TT vaccination (adj OR 1.61; 95% CI 1.29-2.01).Conclusions: the 4-valent MenACWY-TT vaccine showed to be a little more reactogenic compared with to the monovalent MenC-TT vaccine, with a higher risk of fever within 4 days after vaccination. For the other factors no increased risks were found. Overall, this study shows that MenACWY-TT vaccination is well tolerated in toddlers.
Characterizing Social-ecological Context and Success Factors of Antimicrobial Resistance Interventions Across the One Health Spectrum: Analysis of 42 Interventions Targeting E. Coli
Authors: Léger Anaïs , Lambraki Irene , Graells Tiscar , Cousins Melanie , Henriksson Patrik JG , Harbarth Stephan , Carson Carolee A. , Majowicz Shannon E. , Troell Max , Parmley Jane E , Jørgensen Peter S , Wernli Didier
Published: April 2021

Background. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is among the most pressing One Health issues. While interventions and policies with various targets and goals have been implemented, evidence about factors underpinning success and failure of interventions in different sectors is lacking. The objective of this study is to identify characteristics of AMR interventions that increase their capacity to impact AMR. This study focuses on AMR interventions targeting E. coli.Methods. We used the AMR-Intervene framework to extract descriptions of the social and ecological systems of interventions to determine factors contributing to their success. Results. We identified 52 scientific publications referring to 42 unique E. coli AMR interventions. We mainly identified interventions implemented in high-income countries (36/42), at the national level (16/42), targeting primarily one sector of society (37/42) that was mainly the human sector (25/42). Interventions were primarily funded by governments (38/42). Most intervention targeted a low leverage point in the AMR system, (36/42), and aimed to change the epidemiology of AMR (14/42). Among all included publications, 55% (29/52) described at least one success factor or obstacle (29/52) and 19% (10/52) identified at least one success factor and one obstacle. Most reported success factors related to communication between the actors and stakeholders and the role of media, and stressed the importance of collaboration between disciplines and external partners. Described obstacles covered data quality, access to data and statistical analyses, and the validity of the results. Conclusions. Overall, we identified a lack of diversity regarding interventions. In addition, most published E. coli interventions were poorly described with limited evidence of the factors that contributed to the intervention success or failure. Design and reporting guidelines would help to improve reporting quality and provide a valuable tool for improving the science of AMR interventions.
Presepsin and Prognostic Nutritional Index are predictors of septic acute kidney injury, renal replacement therapy initiation in sepsis patients, and prognosis in septic acute kidney injury patients: a pilot study
Authors: Shimoyama Yuichiro , Umegaki Osamu , Kadono Noriko , Minami Toshiaki
Published: April 2021

Background

Sepsis is the most common cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) among critically ill patients. This study aimed to determine whether presepsin is a predictor of septic acute kidney injury, renal replacement therapy initiation (RRTi) in sepsis patients, and prognosis in septic AKI patients.
Methods

Presepsin values were measured immediately after ICU admission (baseline) and on Days 2, 3, and 5 after ICU admission. Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio, Prognostic Index, and Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) were measured at baseline. Total scores were calculated (hereafter, “inflammation-presepsin scores [iPS]”) for category classification. Presepsin values, inflammation-based prognostic scores, and iPS were compared between patients with and without septic AKI or RRTi and between survivors and non-survivors.
Results

Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses identified the following variables as predictors of septic AKI and RRTi in sepsis patients: presepsin on Day 1 (AUC: 0.73) and Day 2 (AUC: 0.71) for septic AKI, and presepsin on Day 1 (AUC: 0.71), Day 2 (AUC: 0.9), and Day 5 (AUC: 0.96), Δpresepsin (Day 2 – Day 1) (AUC: 0.84), Δpresepsin (Day 5 – Day 1) (AUC: 0.93), and PNI (AUC: 0.72) for RRTi. Multivariate logistic regression analyses identified presepsin on Day 2 as a predictor of prognosis in septic AKI patients.
Conclusions

Presepsin and PNI were found to be predictors of septic AKI, RRTi in sepsis patients, and prognosis in septic AKI patients.
Dried blood spot specimens for SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing: A multi-site, multi-assay comparison
Authors: Cholette François , Mesa Christine , Harris Angela , Ellis Hannah , Cachero Karla , Lacap Philip , Galipeau Yannick , Langlois Marc-André , Gingras Anne-Claude , Yansouni Cedric P. , Papenburg Jesse , Cheng Matthew P. , Chakraborty Pranesh , Stein Derek R. , Caeseele Paul Van , Bartlett Sofia , Krajden Mel , Goldfarb David , McGeer Allison , Osiowy Carla , Hankins Catherine , Mazer Bruce , Drebot Michael , Kim John
Published: April 2021

The true severity of infection due to COVID-19 is under-represented because it is based on only those who are tested. Although nucleic acid amplifications tests (NAAT) are the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnostic testing, serological assays provide better population-level SARS-CoV-2 prevalence estimates. Implementing large sero-surveys present several logistical challenges within Canada due its unique geography including rural and remote communities. Dried blood spot (DBS) sampling is a practical solution but comparative performance data on SARS-CoV-2 serological tests using DBS is currently lacking. Here we present test performance data from a well-characterized SARS-CoV-2 DBS panel sent to laboratories across Canada representing 10 commercial and 2 in-house developed tests for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Three commercial assays identified all positive and negative DBS correctly corresponding to a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 100% (95% CI = 72.2, 100). Two in-house assays also performed equally well. In contrast, several commercial assays could not achieve a sensitivity greater than 40% or a negative predictive value greater than 60%. Our findings represent the foundation for future validation studies on DBS specimens that will play a central role in strengthening Canada’s public health policy in response to COVID-19.
CVD grown Graphene Microfilms as a Promising Microscaled Solid Lubricant for the Lubrication of Silicon MEMS Devices
Authors: Chhattal Muhammad , Ghaffar Abdul , Dharejo Fayaz Ali , Ali Salamat
Published: April 2021

Friction, wear, stiction, adhesion, and absence of suitable lubrication methods are important challenges, severely restricting and limiting the expeditious development of Microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology. This paper aims to explore the potential of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown graphene microfilms for the lubrication of sliding silicon MEMS devices to reduce friction and wear problems. A novel silicon-based pin-on-disk friction-pair is designed to mimic sliding MEMS working conditions. Pure graphene-based microfilms are fabricated on the Cu substrate via a CVD method and transferred to the silicon substrate via the PMMA transfer method. To investigate microfilms' surface quality and morphology, microfilms are characterized via Raman spectroscopy, AFM, and SEM. For the tribological performance evaluation, different tribological tests were conducted using the microtribometer. Results show that microfilms remarkably reduced the friction coefficient and wear in the MEMS devices; however, microfilms' tribological performance depends on the roughness and the number of films on the specimen. This remarkable tribological performance suggests that graphene microfilms have the potential to increase the reliability and wear lifespan of MEMS devices. It is foreseeable that this lubrication method can be a step towards the expeditious industrial development of silicon MEMS devices.
Causal Factors and Delayed Referral of Patients of Acute Secondary Peritonitis at Herat Regional Hospital-2018-2019; a Retrospective Study
Authors: Faqiri Sayed Azim , Fazli Mohammad Rafi , Kiani Behyar
Published: April 2021

Background: acute secondary peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum. Surgeons in this field face this deadly pathology, and in Afghanistan, where health services have not yet been systematically standardized, the establishment of this pathology is more likely to be challenging. The aim of this study was to address the most causal factors as well as causes of delayed referral of acute secondary peritonitis at the only tertiary referral hospital in west region of Afghanistan, Herat Regional Hospital. Results: 496 patients were operated with diagnosis of acute secondary peritonitis. 58% of patients were male and the highest age group were being from 10-19 years old (32.25%). 75.21% of these patients had a delay of more than 24 hours from the onset of the first complaint to laparotomy with the highest number (23.18%) delays for 3 days, even 2 patients had symptoms for 31 to 60 days (0.40%). The most common symptoms were abdominal pain with 97%, followed by nausea and vomiting 81% and anorexia 74%. Among all pathologies, acute appendicitis was the most common cause of peritonitis (64.5%) followed by small bowel perforation (9.7%) and peptic ulcer perforation (8.5%). According to late referral 79% started medical treatment after consulting a general doctor, 15% didn’t come to health facilities due to long distances and 6% started home treatment due to wrong believes. Conclusion: According to our research, there is still some acute abdomen patients who come late to health facilities and this is because of the limited resources, cultural issues and lack of the knowledge of the general doctors. In order to decrease the number of these patients we need to expand knowledge of both patients and health staffs, in another word consulting abdominal pain patients should be obligatory by surgeons.
Investigation of interaction between cellulase and residual lignin fractions in acid-pretreated bamboo residues and their effect on enzymatic digestibility
Authors: Lin Wenqian , Yang Jinlai , Zheng Yayue , Huang Caoxing , Yong Qiang
Published: April 2021

Background: During dilute acid pretreatment, pseudo lignin and lignin form droplets which deposit on the surface of lignocellulose, and further inhibit its enzymatic hydrolysis. However, how this lignin interacts with cellulase enzymes and then affects enzymatic hydrolysis is still unknown. In this work, different fractions of surface lignin (SL) obtained from dilute acid pretreated bamboo residues (DAP-BR) were extracted by various organic reagents and the residual lignin in extracted DAP-BR was obtained by milled wood lignin (MWL) method. All the obtained lignin fractions from DAP-BR were used to investigate the interaction mechanism between lignin and cellulase using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology in order to understand how they affect enzymatic hydrolysisResults: Results showed that removing surface lignin significantly decrease the enzymatic hydrolysis of DAP-BR from 36.5% to 18.6%. The addition of MWL samples to Avicel decreased enzymatic hydrolysis of Avicel, while different SL samples showed a slight increase to its enzymatic digestibility. Due to the higher molecular weight and hydrophobicity of MWL samples versus the SL samples, stronger affinity for MWL (KD = 6.8-24.7 nM) was found versus that of SL (KD = 39.4-52.6 nM) by SPR analysis. The affinity constant of all tested lignin had good correlations (R2>0.6) with their effects on enzymatic digestibility of extracted DAP-BR and Avicel.Conclusions: This work reveals that the surface lignin on DAP-BR is necessary towards maintaining enzyme digestibility levels, and its removal has a negative impact on the substrate’s digestibility.
Field in Field Technique (FIF) Technique With Intra-fractionally Modulated Junction Shifts for Cranio-spinal Irradiation (FSI) Planning With 3D-CRT.
Authors: Ali Shabbir Hussain A. , Hafeez Abdul , Nazim Hira , Gohar Rahim , Mallick Jawaid
Published: April 2021

Background

To plan craniospinal irradiation (CSI) with ‘‘field-in-field’’ (FIF) homogenization technique in combination with daily, intra-fractional modulation of the field junctions, to minimize the possibility of spinal cord overdose. Photon-based techniques for CSI may result in dose inhomogeneity within the treatment volume and usually require a weekly manual shift of the field junctions to minimize the possibility of spinal cord overdose. Nowadays FIF technique is used to feather out the dose inhomogeneity caused by multiple fields. We have started using this technique after acquiring advanced technology machines in recent years.
Methods and Materials:

16 patients treated with 3D-CRT for CSI were retrospectively chosen for analysis. These patients were treated during 2016–2017. Contouring of PTV and OAR were done and planning done on Eclipse TM TPS (Varian). These patients were planned with Lateral cranio-cervical fields and posterior spinal fields using a forward-planned, FIF technique. Field junctions were automatically modulated and custom-weighted for maximal homogeneity within each treatment fraction. Dose volume histogram (DVH) was used for analysis of results. A corresponding plan without FIF technique was planned and maximum dose at the junction was noted for each patient with both plans and the readings were evaluated.
Results

Plan inhomogeneity improved with FIF technique. It provided consistent dose delivery during each fraction of treatment across the junctions. The maximum doses calculated at the junction were higher in the CSI plans without FIF compared to those with FIF technique.
Conclusion

This paper hence proves that FIF technique is better in planning CSI.
Evaluation of a Two-Way SMS mHealth Strategy to Reduce Neonatal Mortality: Rationale, Design and Methods of a Randomized Controlled Trial in Kenya
Authors: Ronen Keshet , Choo Esther M , Wandika Brenda , Udren Jenna , Osborn Lusi , Kinthao Peninah , Hedstrom Anna , Masinde Millicent , Kumar Manasi , Wamalwa Dalton , Richardson Barbra A , Kinuthia John , Unger Jennifer A
Published: April 2021

Background: Globally, approximately half of the estimated 6.3 million under-5 deaths occur in the neonatal period (within the first 28 days of life) and 75% of neonatal deaths occur in the first week of life. Kenya ranks among countries with the highest number of neonatal deaths, with a neonatal mortality rate of 20 per 1000 live births. Novel strategies are needed to meet the WHO’s Every Newborn Action Plan target of 10 or fewer neonatal deaths per 1000 live births by 2035. Improved identification and management of neonates with potentially life-threatening illness is critical. We developed an interactive (two-way) human-computer hybrid SMS intervention, Mobile Solutions for Neonatal Health (Mobile WACh NEO), focused on the perinatal period when risk to mothers and infants is highest. Mobile WACh NEO sends automated tailored and personalized SMS messages to mothers during pregnancy and up to 6 weeks postpartum. Messages employ the Information-Motivation-Behavior Skills (IMB) behavioral theory framework to promote 1) maternal implementation of essential newborn care (ENC, which includes early breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, cord care and thermal care), 2) maternal identification of neonatal danger signs and care-seeking, and 3) maternal social support and self-efficacy. Participants can also send SMS to the study nurse, enabling on-demand remote support.Methods: We describe a two-arm unblinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the Mobile WACh NEO SMS intervention. The RCT will enroll 5000 third trimester pregnant women in 4 facilities in Kenya and randomize them 1:1 to receive interactive SMS communication or no SMS (control), and conduct follow-up study visits at 2 and 6 weeks postpartum. Neonatal mortality will be compared between arms as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include care-seeking, practice of ENC, and psychosocial health. Exploratory analysis will investigate associations between maternal mental health, practice of ENC, care-seeking and SMS engagement.Discussion: This study will contribute evidence on the impact of two-way SMS in a low-income setting on neonatal outcomes, using a rigorous evaluation design. This study will build evidence to fill a gap in understanding drivers of neonatal outcomes and the potential impact of SMS interventions.Trial registrationTrial registration: clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04598165. Registered October 22, 2020 – retrospectively registered. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04598165.
Spousal associations of serum metabolomic profiles by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Authors: Rashid Karema Al , Goulding Neil , Taylor Amy , Lumsden Mary Ann , Lawlor Deborah A , Nelson S M
Published: April 2021

Background

Phenotype-based assortative mating is well established in humans, with the potential for further convergence through a shared environment. To assess the correlation within infertile couples of physical, social, and behavioural characteristics and 155 circulating metabolic measures.

Methods

Cross sectional study at a tertiary medical center of 326 couples undertaking IVF. Serum lipids, lipoprotein subclasses, and low-molecular weight metabolites as quantified by NMR spectroscopy (155 metabolic measures). Multivariable and quantile regression correlations within couples of metabolite profiles.

Results

Couples exhibited statistical correlations of varying strength for most physical, social, and behavioural characteristics including age, height, alcohol consumption, education, smoking status, physical activity, family history and ethnicity, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.22 to 0.73. There was no evidence of within couple associations for BMI and weight, where the correlation coefficients were -0.03 (95%CI -0.14, 0.08) and 0.01 (95%CI -0.10, 0.12), respectively. Within spousal associations of the metabolite measurements were all positive but with weak to modest magnitudes, with the median correlation coefficient across all 155 measures being 0.12 (range 0.01 to 0.37 and interquartile range 0.10 to 0.18). With just four having associations stronger than 0.3: docosahexaenoic acid (0.37, 95%CI 0.22, 0.52), omega-3 fatty acids (0.32, 95%CI 0.20, 0.43) histidine (0.32, 95%CI 0.23, 0.41) and pyruvate (0.32, 95%CI 0.22, 0.43).

Conclusions

Infertile couples exhibit spousal similarities for a range of demographic and serum metabolite measures, supporting initial assortative mating, with diet-derived metabolites suggesting possible subsequent convergence of their individual metabolic profile.
Deep Learning-based High-precision Depth Map Estimation from Missing Viewpoints for 360 Degree Digital Holography
Authors: Kim Hakdong , Lim Heonyeong , Jee Minkyu , Lee Yurim , Jeong Jisoo , Choi Kyudam , Yoon MinSung , Kim Cheongwon
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we propose a novel model to extract highly precise depth maps from missing viewpoints, especially for generating holographic 3D content. These depth maps are essential elements for phase extraction, which is required for the synthesis of computer-generated holograms (CGHs). The proposed model, called the holographic dense depth, estimates depth maps through feature extraction, combining, up-sampling. We designed and prepared a total of 8,192 multi-view images with resolutions of 640 × 360. We evaluated our model by comparing the estimated depth maps with their ground truths using peak signal-to-noise ratio, accuracy, and root mean squared error as performance measures. We further compared the CGH patterns created from estimated depth maps with those from ground truths and reconstructed the holographic 3D image scenes from their CGHs. Both quantitative and qualitative results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
In-situ Growth of MAX Phase Coatings on Ecological Carbon and their Terahertz Shielding Properties Investigations
Authors: Huang Jiaxuan , Wan Hujie , Li Mian , Zhang Yiming , Zhu Jianfeng , Li Xuelin , Shui Wenchao , Li Yao , Fan Xiaomeng , Wen Qiye , Xiao Xu , Huang Qing
Published: April 2021

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials have received great interests in recent years. The EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of materials not only depends on their composition, but also is influenced by their microstructures. Among various microstructure prototypes, porous structure has special advantage of low density and high electromagnetic wave reflections ability. Herein, a MAX@CW composite (Ti2AlC@CW, V2AlC@CW, Cr2AlC@CW) with porous structure is fabricated through a molten salt method by using carbonized wood (CW) as template. The MAX@CW forms conductive network constructions and rich interface that can further improve the EMI shielding effectiveness. The average EMI shielding effectiveness of the three kinds of MAX@CW with the thickness of 1 mm are higher than 45 dB in the frequency range of 0.6 ~ 1.6 THz. Among them, V2AlC@CW show the best EMI shielding effectiveness with the average value of 55 dB.
Manipulation of The Magnetic Properties of Janus WSSe Monolayer By The Adsorption of Transition Metal Atoms
Authors: Chen Kai , Tang Weiqing , Fu Mingming , Li Xu , Ke Congming , Wu Yaping , Wu Zhiming , Kang Junyong
Published: April 2021

Two-dimensional Janus materials have great potential for the applications in spintronic devices due to their particular structures and novel characteristics. However, they are usually non-magnetic in nature. Here, different transition metals (TMs: Co, Fe, Mn, Cr, and V) adsorbed WSSe frameworks are constructed, and their structures and magnetic properties are comprehensively investigated by first-principles calculations. The results show that the top of W atom is the most stable absorption site for all the TM atoms, and all the systems exhibit magnetism. Moreover, their magnetic properties significantly depend on the adsorbed elements and the adsorbent chalcogens. A maximal total magnetic moment of 6 μB is obtained in the Cr-adsorbed system. The induced magnetism from S-surface-adsorption is always stronger than that for the Se-surface-adsorption due to its larger electrostatic potential. Interestingly, the easy magnetization axis in the Fe-adsorbed system switches from the in-plane to the out-of-plane when the adsorption surface changes from Se to S surface. The mechanism is analyzed in detail by Fe-3d orbital-decomposed density of states. This work provides a guidance for the modification of magnetism in low-dimensional systems.
Tinea Capitis in an Immigrant Pediatric Community; A Clinical Signs-Based Treatment Approach
Authors: Kassem Riad , Shmase Yahel , Nitzan Orna , Azrad Maya , Peretz Avi
Published: April 2021

Tinea capitis is a common cutaneous infection of the scalp and hair follicles, typically diagnosed by direct examination and culture. Treatment with oral antifungals is usually withheld until mycology results are available. In Israel, African refugee children demonstrate higher susceptibility to Tinea capitis and generally fail to undergo follow-up evaluations. This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics and treatment response of refugee children in Israel with Tinea capitis, in order to formulate a treatment plan, for primary care physicians. To this end, demographic, clinical and laboratory data were extracted from the electronic medical records of 76 refugee children presenting with Tinea capitis during 2016-2017. Scaling was the most common clinical finding. Cultures were positive in 64 (84%) and direct examination in 65 (85%) cases, with a positive correlation between the tests in 75% of cases. The most common fungal strain was T. violaceum. Fluconazole treatment failed in 27% of cases. Griseofulvin 50 mg/kg/day was administered to 74 (97%) of the children, and induced clinical responses. No side effects were reported. In African refugee children with suspected Tinea capitis, a culture, direct examination and empiric treatment with griseofulvin 50 mg/kg/day are recommended to prevent outbreak of an epidemic.
Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index is a Promising Noninvasive Biomarker for Predicting the Survival of Urinary System Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Xing , Gu Lijiang , Chen Yuhang , Chong Yue , Wang Xinyang , Guo Peng , He Dalin
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) has been reported in numerous studies to effectively predict the pathological features and survival outcomes of urinary system cancers, but no agreement has been reached. The aim of this meta-analysis is to explore the prognostic significance of pretreatment SII in tumours of the urinary system.Methods: Relevant published articles were selected from Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library up to August 30, 2020. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs), odds ratios (ORs), and standard mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed to estimate the associations of pretreatment SII with overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and clinicopathological parameters in urinary system cancers.Results: Overall, a total of 13 papers published from 2016 to 2020 involving 15 datasets comprising 3974 patients were finally included in our meta-analysis. From the combined data, we found that high SII prior to treatment indicated markedly worse OS (HR =1.98, 95% CI: 1.75–2.23; p < 0.001), PFS (HR: 2.08, 95% CI: 1.32–3.26, p = 0.002) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 80.8%, p < 0.001), and CSS (HR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.73–3.35, p < 0.001). In addition, patients who have an elevated SII value before receiving treatment might have undesirable pathological characteristics, including large tumour size, poor differentiation grade, and advanced tumour stage (all p < 0.001).Conclusion: Pretreatment SII could be used as a noninvasive and promising biomarker for indicating the prognosis of patients with urinary system cancers.
Efficacy of S-1 after pemetrexed in patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma: a retrospective multi-institutional analysis
Authors: Takemoto Shinnosuke , Akagi Kazumasa , Ono Sawana , Tomono Hiromi , Honda Noritaka , Suyama Takayuki , Umeyama Yasuhiro , Dotsu Yosuke , Taniguchi Hirokazu , Ogawara Daiki , Senju Hiroaki , Gyotoku Hiroshi , Sugasaki Nanae , Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Nakatomi Katsumi , Fukuda Minoru , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: April 2021

Background: This study was designed to evaluate the treatment effect of S-1 following PEM-containing treatment. Methods: This retrospective study included patients with advanced (c-stage III or IV, UICC 7th) or recurrent NSCLC who received S-1 monotherapy following the failure of previous PEM-containing chemotherapy at 6 hospitals in Japan. Primary endpoint: Overall response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoint: Disease control rate (DCR), time to treatment failure (TTF), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Results: A total of 53 NSCLC patients met the criteria. Forty-six patients had adenocarcinoma (88.7%) and no patients had squamous cell carcinoma. Thirty-one patients (58.5%) received the standard S-1 regimen and 18 patients (34.0%) received the modified S-1 regimen. ORR was 1.9% (95% confidential interval (CI): 0.00-10.1%). Median TTF, PFS, and OS were 65 days, 84 days, and 385 days, respectively. Conclusion: Although there were several limitations in this study, the ORR of S-1 after PEM in patients with non-SQ NSCLC was low compared to the historical control. It might be one of the choices to avoid S-1 treatment in PEM-treated patients who need tumor shrinkage.