bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexibility in Migratory Behaviour of a Flight Generalist: Migrate Day and Night, Sprinting Across Ecological Barriers 
Authors: Lopez-Ricaurte Lina , Vansteelant Wouter , Hernández-Pliego Jesús , García-Silveira Daniel , Bermejo Ana , Casado Susana , Cecere Jacopo , Puente Javier de la , Garcés-Toledano Fernando , Martínez-Dalmau Juan , Ortega Alfredo , Rodríguez-Moreno Beatriz , Rubolini Diego , Sarà Maurizio , Bustamante Javier
Published: December 2020

Understanding what factors drive variation in movement patterns is a key challenge in current migration research. Environmental drivers such as landscape heterogeneity and weather strongly affect birds’ migration influencing daily travel schedules and flight speed. For strictly thermal-soaring migrants, typically large birds, weather explains most seasonal and regional differences in speed. In contrast, smaller-sized flight generalists, which alternate between soaring and flapping flight, may be less dependent on weather and thus more likely to be strongly influenced by landscape in daily travel schedules and internal drivers, such as sex. We GPS-tracked the migration performance of 70 lesser kestrels (Falco naumanni), to estimate the relative importance of environmental (wind and landscape), internal (e.g. sex) and seasonal drivers and to what extend do they explain variation in migratory performance, namely speed, distance, and travelling time. We found that tailwind strength explained most of the seasonal difference in migratory parameters. In both seasons lesser kestrels sprinted across ecological barriers and frequently extended migration into the night, while travelling at a slower pace and mainly during the day when not flying over barriers. Our results highlighted that environmental factors far outweighed internal and other seasonal drivers in explaining variation in migration performance of a flight generalist, despite the ability to switch between flight-modes.
Oncogenic Role of miR-130a in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mallela Karthik , Swamy Shivananda , Gopinath K. , Kumar Arun
Published: December 2020

Aberrant activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is attributed to the pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In recent years, increasing evidence suggests the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in oral carcinogenesis by acting as tumor suppressors or oncogenes. TSC1, as a component of the above pathway, regulates several cellular functions such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion. Downregulation of TSC1 is reported in oral as well as several other cancers and is associated with an unfavourable clinical outcome in patients. Here we show that oncogenic miR-130a binds to the 3’UTR of TSC1 and represses its expression. MiR-130a-mediated repression of TSC1 increases cell proliferation, anchorage independent growth and invasion of OSCC cells, which is dependent on the presence of the 3’UTR in TSC1. We observe an inverse correlation between the expression levels of miR-130a and TSC1 in OSCC samples, suggesting that their interaction is physiologically relevant. Delivery of antagomiR-130a to OSCC cells results in a significant decrease in xenograft size. Taken together, the findings of the study indicate that miR-130a-mediated TSC1 downregulation is not only a novel mechanism in OSCC, but the restoration of TSC1 levels by antagomiR-130a may be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of OSCC.
The Exploratory Research of NSCLC with Concomitant EGFR Mutations and ALK Rearrangements
Authors: Han Qiman , Zhang Chuantao , Jiang Man , Li Tianjun , Zhu Jingjuan , Zhou Na , Hou Helei , Zhang Xiaochun
Published: December 2020

Background: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangements are two driver alterations and are generally considered mutually exclusive in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The prevalence of EGFR/ALK co-alterations in patients with NSCLC is low, and the clinicopathological features and optimal targeted therapies of these subtype of patients are still controversial. Methods: We describe three cases of NSCLC harboring EGFR mutation and ALK rearrangement. All of them received more-line therapies and showed the long-term survival benefit from targeted therapies.In addition, we searched PUBMED, EMBASE and MEDLINE up to September, 2020. 91 EGFR/ALK co-altered patients of NSCLC included for analysis in our study. Survival curves were created by Kaplan-Meier method and group comparison analyses of progression free survival (PFS) were using log-rank test. Result: A total of 91 patients were summarized in our study from previous literatures. The patients of NSCLC with coexisting EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements are more likely to occur in female, non-smoker, Asian origin, adenocarcinoma, and IV stage. The disease control rate (DCR) of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) which targeted EGFR and ALK as first-line targeted therapy was 62% and 78%, respectively. The median PFS on first EGFR-TKI and first ALK-TKI therapy were 5.3 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20 – 9.40 months) and 6.0 months (95% CI 0.00 – 14.69 months) in EGFR/ALK co-altered NSCLC patients. Among patients who were treated with EGFR-TKI as first-line targeted therapy, univariant analysis showed that PFS have no significant difference between male and female (p = 0.22), and there is also no difference between Asian and Caucasian (p =0.939). The median PFS between first- and second-line targeted therapies was 7.0 months (95% CI 4.83 -9.17 months) and 2.0 months (95% CI 0.96-3.05 months) (p = 0.075). Survival curves showed the significantly prolonged PFS between patients without and with CNS metastasis (p = 0.036). Conclusion: Both EGFR-TKIs and ALK-TKIs have been proved their effectiveness to EGFR/ALK double-positive NSCLC patients. The curative effect of combination targeted therapies and sequential treatment regimens are still in exploration.
Arsenic Trioxide Synergistically Promotes the Antileukaemic Activity of Venetoclax by Downregulating Mcl-1 in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia Cells
Authors: Cho Hyunsoo , Jang Ji Eun , Eom Ju-In , Jeung Hoi-Kyung , Chung Haerim , Kim Jin Seok , Cheong June-Won , Min Yoo Hong
Published: December 2020

BackgroundThe evasion of apoptosis through dysregulated Bcl-2 family members is a hallmark of leukaemia stem cells (LSCs) in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Therefore, targeting Bcl-2 with venetoclax has been suggested as an attractive strategy for inducing apoptosis in AML LSCs. However, the selective inhibition of Bcl-2 in AML often leads to upregulation of Mcl-1, another dominant anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family protein conferring venetoclax resistance.MethodsWe assessed the combined effect of venetoclax and arsenic trioxide (ATO) on leukaemic cell viability, apoptosis, combination index, and cell cycle in the human LSC-like KG1 and KG1a cells. The synergistic effect of venetoclax and ATO on apoptosis was also examined in primary CD34+ and CD34+CD38- LSCs from the bone marrow (BM) of AML patients, and compared with those from healthy donors.ResultsVenetoclax efficiently impaired cell viability and dose-dependently promoted apoptosis when combined with ATO; their synergism was aptly represented by the combination index. The combination of venetoclax and ATO impaired cell cycle progression by restricting cells within the sub-G1 phase and facilitating caspase-dependent apoptotic cell death associated with the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, while sparing healthy BM haematopoietic stem cells. Mechanistically, ATO mitigated venetoclax-induced upregulation of Mcl-1 by the inhibition of AKT and ERK, along with activation of GSK-3β. This led to the Mcl-1 destabilisation, triggering Noxa and Bim to facilitate apoptosis and the consequent activation of the apoptosis executioner protein Bak. Moreover, the combination promoted phosphorylation of ATM, Chk2, p38, and H2AX, indicating an active DNA damage response.Conclusions﻿Our findings demonstrate the synergistic, preferential antileukaemic effects of venetoclax and ATO on LSCs, providing a rationale for preclinical and clinical trials by combining these agents already being used in clinical practice to treat acute leukaemia.
COVID-19 Pandemic and the Residents’ Side of the Story: A Cross-sectional Survey Study
Authors: Alshdaifat Eman , Sindiani Amer , khasawneh Wasim , Abu-Azzam Omar , Qarqash Aref , Abushukair Hassan , Obeidat Nail
Published: December 2020

Background: Residency training programs have been impacted by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In this study we aim to investigate and evaluate the impact of the pandemic on residents as well as residency training programs.Methods: A survey of 43 questions was prepared on Google forms and distributed among residents at a tertiary center in North Jordan in the period between October 30th and November 8th of 2020. The survey included questions that addressed the impact of the pandemic on residents’ health as well as training programs. Our cohort was stratified according to the type of residency program (surgical residents (SRs) and non-surgical residents (NSRs)). Statistical methods included descriptive analysis, Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test, and Mann Whitney U test. A two-sided p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: Out of 430 residents in the institute, 255 (59%) residents responded to the survey. Participation rate among SRs was 74% (121/164) compared with 50% among NSRs (134/266). A total of 17 (7%) of residents reported being infected with COVID-19 and a significant difference was reported between SRs and NSRs (10% vs 4%, P = 0.048). Approximately, 106 (42%) reported a decrease in the number of staff working at the clinic and 164 (64%) reported limited access to personal protective equipment during the pandemic. NSRs were more likely to be trained to protect themselves and others against COVID-19 spread compared to SRs (57% vs 37% P= 0.002, 55% vs 41% p=0.026 respectively) Conclusion: The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the workflow of residency training programs is very significant, thus institutes should modify their programs to fit residents’ needs to maintain education without any compromise in their health status. Training healthcare workers should be given a priority in any healthcare-related crisis as they are the first line in combating such circumstances.
Rosuvastatin: Morphological and Respiratory Effects of High Doses on Liver Mitochondria from Hypercholesterolemic Mice
Authors: Zagoya Juan C Diaz , Marín-Medina Alejandro , Zetina-Esqu Alma M. , Blé-Castillo Jorge L. , Castell-Rodríguez Andrés E. , Juárez-Rojop Isela E. , Miranda-Zamora Rodrigo
Published: December 2020

Background: Statins are the cornerstone of therapy in patients with hyperlipidemia. In high risk patients statins are employed for aggressive therapy, however part of the users are intolerant to these drugs. The aim of this study was to analyze the undesirable effects of moderate, median and high doses of rosuvastatin in CD-1 male mice that received a cholesterol-rich diet, focusing in the morphological and functional changes on hepatocyte mitochondria. Methods: We studied in a mouse model the combined administration of a cholesterol-rich diet (HD) along with a moderate high dose of rosuvastatin (Ro): 1, 2.5 or 5 mg/Kg/day during several days. Animals (n=6) were sacrificed, the liver mitochondria were isolated for analysis of respiratory function and microscopic studies. The respiratory control (state 3/state 4) and the O2 expenditure (nanoatoms/min/mg proteins) were evaluated. Results: Rosuvastatin doses higher than 20 mg/Kg/day induced premature death in hypercholesterolemic mice but not in mice with a cholesterol-free diet. Doses from 2.5 to 5 mg/Kg/day also induced morphological and functional alterations in mitochondria but the hypercholesterolemic animals survived longer. A dose of 1 mg/Kg/day, which is close to the maximal therapeutic dose employed in humans, did not affect mitochondrial architecture or respiratory function after two months of treatment. We analyzed the effect of rosuvastatin on the hepatic tissue where statins are most retained after their administration, and the main site of endogenous cholesterol synthesis. Conclusions: Our results contribute to understand the undesirable side effects of rosuvastatin in hypercholesterolemic mice, effects that can also be present in human being intolerant to statins.
Pancreatic inflammatory myofibroblastic of the pancreatic neck: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Zhitao , Lin Yaoxiang , Li Mengxia , Zhang Ting , Zhang Lele , Wan Dalong , Lin Shengzhang
Published: December 2020

BackgroundPancreatic inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a relatively rare disease, which is often confused with pancreatic cancer or pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Its histological features are fibroblast and myofibroblast proliferation, accompanied by varying degrees of inflammatory cell infiltration. Case presentationHerein, we presented the management of IMT occurring at the neck of pancreas. A 66-year-old female patient was diagnosed as pancreatic neck mass after a series of tests. Then she underwent enucleation of pancreatic neck tumor followed by pathological diagnosis of IMT. Meanwhile, we reviewed the clinical features and pathological diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic IMT which were previously reported. To our knowledge, this is the unique case of enucleation of pancreatic IMT. ConclusionIn the management of pancreatic IMT, we concluded that enucleation may be a safe and efficient surgical method for the management of pancreatic IMT and may also provide a better prognosis. Further accumulation of cases is required to explore the surgical measure of pancreatic IMTs.
A Low Cost & Open Access System for Rapid Synthesis of Large Volumes of Gold and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Ross Alex , Muñoz Marcelo , Rotstein Benjamin , Suuronen Erik , Alarcon Emilio
Published: December 2020

Rapid synthesis of nanomaterials in scalable quantities is critical for accelerating discovery and commercial translation of nanoscale-based technologies. The synthesis of metal nanogold and silver in volumes larger than 100 mL is not automatized and might require of the use of harsh conditions that in most cases is detrimental for the production of nanoparticles with reproducible size distribution. In this work, we present the development and optimization of an open access low-cost NanoParticle Flow Synthesis System (NPFloSS) that allows for the rapid preparation of volumes of up to 1L of gold and silver nanoparticle aqueous solutions.
The Impact of Oxygen and Pentoxifylline in Hypoxic Condition
Authors: Cho Young-Duck , Choi Sung-Hyuk , Park Sung-Jun , Yu Woo-Sung , Kim Jung-Youn , Cho Han-Jin , Lim Chae-Seung , Kim Kyung-Hwan , Shin Tae-Gun
Published: December 2020

Background: Among major trauma patients in the emergency department (ED), the leading cause of morbidity and mortality is a hemorrhagic shock. The low oxygen flow with hypovolemia in trauma patients is believed to play a significant role. Hence, oxygen supply is essential in severe trauma patients with massive hemorrhage. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different oxygen environments (hypoxia 1%, normoxia 20%, hyperoxia 80% oxygen) and variable treatments such as pentoxifylline (PTX), glycerol, hypertonic saline (HTS), protease inhibitor and dexamethasone (DEXA) in macrophage and T cells. Methods: Nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) were measured for macrophage. MIF, interleukin (IL)-2 and 8 were measured for T cells. MTT assay was done for measuring T cell viability. Coculture was done on T cells on top of macrophages and the same protocols were carried out. Results: PTX decreased iNOS expression mostly followed by Glycerol under hypoxia. Under the hyperoxia, PTX and other treatments decreased iNOS expressions. MIF expression was lowered with PTX under hypoxia. PTX, glycerol, HTS, and protease inhibitor were effective under hyperoxia. PTX increased T cell survival under hypoxia. Under the hyperoxia, IL-2 expressions were upregulated with PTX, Glycerol, and HTS. PTX and other treatments were effective for IL-8, too. Our results indicate that PTX, HTS, and other medications with oxygen showed an effect on macrophage and T cells under various insults and stimulations. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated potential usefulness in improving immune systems during severe inflammatory conditions similar to septic shock possibly caused by massive hemorrhage.
Manganese oxides synthesized via microwave-assisted hydrothermal method: phase evolution and structure refinement
Authors: Neto Roumanos G. D. , Macedo Wagner Costa , Fernandes José D. , Albas Agda E. S. , Teixeira Silvio R. , Longo Elson
Published: December 2020

Manganese oxides were synthesized during 40 min at 140 ºC via Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal (MAH) method and treated at different temperatures in order to evaluate the phase evolution using structure refinement (Rietveld method). The samples obtained were heat treated at temperatures defined by means of thermal analysis (160 ºC, 480 ºC, 715 ºC, 870 ºC, 920 ºC and 1150 ºC) and analyzed by XRD, XRF, FTIR spectroscopy, Raman scattering and SEM. Structural characterizations allowed to identify five distinct phases: α-MnO2, Mn3O4, Mn5O8, Na2Mn5O10 and Na4Mn9O18 with weight percentages dependent on the heat treatment. The hausmannite structure (average crystallite size ranging from 28.9 nm to 99.1 nm) is present in all samples and go through various oxidation and reduction processes from 160 ºC to 1150 ºC without any major variation in the lattice parameters. The results presented enables a better interpretation of the thermal and structural characteristics of manganese oxides synthesized via MAH.
Highly improved supercapacitance properties of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles by MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Sharifi Samira , Rahimi Kourosh , Yazdani Ahmad
Published: December 2020

Manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4) nanoparticles were synthesized via a hydrothermal method and combined with exfoliated MoS2 nanosheets, and the nanocomposite was studied as a supercapacitor. X-ray diffractometry and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the crystalline structures and structural characteristics of the nanocomposite. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy images showed the uniform and dense distribution of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles (~ 10 nm) on few-layer MoS2 nanosheets (~ 2 to 3 µm in width). UV-visible absorption photospectrometry indicated a decrease in the bandgap of MnFe2O4 by MoS2, resulting in a higher conductivity that is suitable for capacitance. Electrochemical tests showed that the incorporation of MoS2 nanosheets largely increased the specific capacitance of MnFe2O4 from 600 to 2093 F/g (with the corresponding energy density and power density of 46.51 Wh/kg and 213.64 W/kg, respectively) at 1 A/g, and led to better charge-discharge cycling stability. We also demonstrated a real-world application of the MnFe2O4/MoS2 nanocomposite in a two-cell asymmetric supercapacitor setup. A density functional theory study was also performed on the MnFe2O4/MoS2 interface to analyze how a MoS2 monolayer can enhance the electronic properties of MnFe2O4 towards a higher specific capacitance.
Synthesis, Characterization and Encapsulation of Novel Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) in Biopolymer Matrices
Authors: Vlahoviček-Kahlina Kristina , Jurić Slaven , Marijan Marijan , Mutaliyeva Botagoz , Khalus Svetlana , Prosyanik Alexander , Vincekovic Marko
Published: December 2020

Novel plant growth regulators (PGRs) based on the derivatives of dehydroamino acids (2,3-dehydroaspartic acid dimethyl ester, Z-isomer of the potassium salt of 2-amino-3-methoxycarbonylacrylic acid and 1-methyl-3-methylamino-maleimide) have been synthesized and their growth-regulating properties investigated. Laboratory testing and field experiments revealed new compounds are highly effective environmentally friendly plant growth regulators with effects on different crops. Biopolymeric microcapsule formulations (chitosan/alginate microcapsule loaded with PGR) suitable for application in agriculture were prepared and characterized. Physicochemical properties and release profiles of PGRs from microcapsule formulations depend on the molecular interactions between microcapsule constituents including mainly electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonds. The differences in the microcapsule formulations structure did not affect the mechanism of PGRs release which was identified as diffusion through microcapsules. The obtained results opened a perspective for the future use of microcapsule formulations as new promising agroformulations with a sustained and target release for plant growth regulation.
Risk factors of preoperative frailty in elderly inpatients with gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Meng , Hu Shaohua , Meng Lei , Xi Jing , Xu Aman , Zhang Yanyan , Yu Shihui
Published: December 2020

Background

Frailty is emerging as an important determinant for health, while researches in the field of frailty start at a later stage in China and mainly focuses on community elderly dwellers. Little is known about frailty in cancer patients in China, nor the risk factors of frailty. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of frailty and its risk factors in elderly inpatients with gastrointestinal cancer.
Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed at a tertiary hospital in China from Mar. 2020 to Nov. 2020. The study enrolled 265 inpatients aged 60 and older with gastrointestinal cancer who successfully underwent surgery. The demographic and clinical characteristics, biochemical laboratory parameters, and anthropometric data were collected from all patients. The Groningen Frailty Indicator was applied to assess patients’ frailty status. Multivariate logistic regression model analysis was carried out to identify risk factors of frailty and estimate their 95% confidence intervals.
Results

The prevalence of frailty in elderly inpatients with gastrointestinal cancer was 43.8%. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that older age (OR = 1.065, 95% CI: 1.001–1.132, P = 0.045), low handgrip strength (OR = 4.346, 95% CI: 1.739–10.863, P = 0.002), no regular exercise habit (OR = 3.228, 95% CI: 1.230–8.469, P = 0.017), and low MNA-SF score (OR = 11.090, 95% CI: 5.119–24.024, P < 0.001) were risk factors of frailty.
Conclusions

This study suggested that the prevalence of frailty was high among elderly inpatients with gastrointestinal cancer. Older age, low handgrip strength, no regular exercise habit, and low MNA-SF score were risk factors of frailty.
Effectiveness of Short-Range UV-LED Irradiation in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Using Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Ochiai Satoshi , Nishida Yoshihiro , Higuchi Yoshitoshi , Morita Daigo , Makida Kazuya , Seki Taisuke , Ikuta Kunihiro , Imagama Shiro
Published: December 2020

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is crucial condition that reduces the QOL of affected patients just like aged type osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of short-range UV-LED irradiation in postmenopausal osteoporosis using ovariectomized mice. Preliminary experiments identified the time of onset of osteoporosis after ovariectomy (8 weeks) in our model. We have set up a total of 4 groups (n=8/group); vitamin D-repletion with UV irradiation (Vit.D+UV+), vitamin D-repletion without UV irradiation (Vit.D+UV-), vitamin D-deficiency with UV irradiation (Vit.D-UV+), vitamin D-deficiency without UV irradiation (Vit.D-UV-), and. From 8 weeks after ovariectomy, UV was irradiated for 24 weeks. At the time of 16 and 24 weeks’ irradiation, serum Vit.D levels, various markers of bone metabolism, bone mineral density, and bone strength were evaluated, and histological analyses were performed. In addition, muscle strength was analyzed. Serum 25 (OH) D levels at 40 and 48 weeks of age were increased in the Vit.D-UV + group compared to the Vit.D-UV-group. Cortical thickness evaluated with micro-CT and strength of bone were significantly higher in Vit.D-UV+ group than those in Vit.D-UV- group. There was no difference in muscle strength between Vit.D-UV+ group and Vit.D-UV- group. No obvious adverse effects were observed in UV-irradiated mice including skin findings. Short-range UV irradiation may ameliorate postmenopausal osteoporosis associated with a state of vitamin D deficiency.
Protein Intake (<1.0 g/kg) Is a Risk Factor for Malnutrition in Patients With Cirrhosis.
Authors: Park Jin Hwa , Kang Minkoo , Jun Dae Won , Kim Mimi , Kang Bo-kyeong
Published: December 2020

Background and aimsThe prevalence of malnutrition in patients with cirrhosis is considerably high. Protein intake is a well-known risk factor for malnutrition, but studies on adequate protein intake are very scarce. We investigated the prevalence of malnutrition and amount of adequate protein intake in patients with cirrhosis.MethodsIn total, 361 patients with cirrhosis were enrolled. Muscle quality and quantity were retrospectively assessed using the grip strength test and bioelectrical impedance analysis. Subjective global assessment (SGA) of malnutrition and dietary intake assessments were performed by a clinical dietician.ResultsThe prevalence rates of sarcopenia, malnutrition assessed by SGA, and inadequate energy intake were 22.7%, 13.6%, and 27.5% respectively. The prevalence of malnutrition evaluated using any of the assessment methods was 46.3%, and no significant difference was observed according to liver disease etiology. The prevalence of malnutrition increased with the increasing disease severity and decreasing BMI. The prevalence of malnutrition was 64.4% in patients with protein intake <1.0 g/kg. Low protein intake, Child–Pugh C grade, older age, and low BMI were independent risk factors for malnutrition in multivariate analysis.ConclusionProtein intake below 1.0 g/kg is an independent risk factor for malnutrition in patients with cirrhosis.
Experimental investigations of micromachining characteristics on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by cryogenic micro abrasive jet machining
Authors: Zhang Guiguan , Sun Yuli , Gao Hang , Zuo Dunwen
Published: December 2020

In this study, a cryogenic micro-abrasive jet machining (CMAJM) experimental system is designed and built based on the glass transition characteristics of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Fixed processing parameters are then used to evaluate the effectiveness of machining PDMS by micro-abrasive jet machining (MAJM) at room and cryogenic temperatures, and the results show that cryogenic could improves the processing quality of PDMS. Based on this, experiments are conducted into how microchannel processing quality is influenced by the scanning speed and the erosion distance, pressure, and angle. The results show that better PDMS microchannels are processed when the erosion distance is 2.5–3.5 μm, the erosion pressure is 0.4 MPa, the erosion angle is 60–75°, and the scanning speed is 0.25 mm/s.
Factors Associated with Disease-Specific Health Related Quality of Life in Women with Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Winkler Laura Al-Dakhiel , Gudex Claire , Röder Michael Ejnar , Adair Carol E , Sjögren Jan Magnus , Støving René Klinkby
Published: December 2020

Background: Health-related quality of life is severely affected in patients with anorexia nervosa due to both physical and psychological consequences of the disease, but it is still uncertain whether the same factors affect both clinical outcome and quality of life. It is also unknown whether there are differences between patients and controls in terms of self-reported physical, psychological and social well-being. Methods: Women with anorexia nervosa were recruited from specialized eating disorder centers in the five regions of Denmark. Healthy, normal-weight controls were invited via online social media to participate in the study. Six questionnaires including study characteristics, quality of life, eating disorder symptomatology, depression, work and social adjustment and psychological well-being were completed online by all participants. Results: 211 women with anorexia nervosa and 199 controls participated in the study. Women with anorexia nervosa reported significantly lower quality of life, both in terms of disease-specific HRQoL using the Eating Disorders Quality of Life Scale and on measures of general health, psychological well-being, and work functioning. Psychological and cognitive factors were highly associated with poor quality of life (p-value<0.05). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that attention to and management of disordered self-assessment and thought processes may be of special importance to women with anorexia nervosa and their families. It is possible that greater emphasis on such aspects alongside weight gain could enhance patient-clinician alliance and contribute to better treatment outcomes.
The implementation of a smoking cessation and alcohol abstinence intervention for people experiencing homelessness
Authors: Pratt Rebekah , Xiong Serena , Kmiecik Azul , Strobel-Ayres Cathy , Joseph Anne , Everson-Rose Susan A , Luo Xianghua , Cooney Ned , Thomas Janet , Specker Shelia , Okuyemi Kola
Published: December 2020

In the United States, eighty percent of the adult homeless population smokes cigarettes compared to 15 percent of the general population. In 2017 Power to Quit 2 (PTQ2), a randomized clinical trial, was implemented in two urban homeless shelters in the Upper Midwest to address concurrent smoking cessation and alcohol treatment among people experiencing homelessness. A subset of this study population were interviewed to assess their experiences of study intervention. The objective of this study was to use participants’ experiences with the intervention to inform future implementation efforts of combined smoking cessation and alcohol abstinence interventions, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 40 PTQ2 participants between 2016–2017 and analyzed in 2019. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a socially constructivist approach to grounded theory. Findings: Participants described the PTQ2 intervention in positive terms. Participants valued the opportunity to obtain both counseling and nicotine-replacement therapy products (intervention characteristics) and described forming a bond with the PTQ2 staff and reliance on them for emotional support and encouragement (characteristics of individuals). However, the culture of alcohol use and cigarette smoking around the shelter environment presented a serious challenge (outer setting). The study setting and the multiple competing needs of participants were reported as the most challenging barriers to implementation (implementation process). Conclusion: The CFIR was useful in offering specific insights about the implementation context of the PTQ2 intervention, including the impact of the factors in the inner and outer settings of the shelter environment. Participants described a discord in their personal goals of reduction compared with the study goals of complete abstinence, which may pose a challenge to the ways in which success is defined for people experiencing homelessness.
Nematode Ashworthius sidemi Schulz, 1933 (Trichostrongylidae: Haemonchinae) in mountain ecosystems – potential risk for the Tatra chamois Rupipacra rupicapra tatrica (Blahout, 1971/1972)
Authors: Nosal Paweł , Kowal Jerzy , Wyrobisz-Papiewska Anna , Chovancová Gabriela
Published: December 2020

Background

Native to Asia highly pathogenic nematode Ashworthius sidemi is now in Europe, and several dozen years after its introduction is a widespread parasite of all wild cervids. For bovids, the nematode is a significant threat to the European bison (Bison bonasus) population and has also been found in mouflon (Ovis aries musimon). This study aimed to assess the risk of infection for the endemic subspecies of northern (Alpine) chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) – Tatra chamois (R. r. tatrica), having a critically endangered status.
Methods

The study was conducted in mountainous areas of Slovakia and Poland occupied by Tatra chamois (R. r. tatrica), Alpine chamois (R. r. rupicapra), red deer (Cervus elaphus) and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). Animals (n = 93) shot during licensed hunting and killed in road accidents (roe deer, red deer), or died a natural death (chamois) were post-mortem examined on the presence of Haemonchinae.
Results

A. sidemi affected all of the roe deer, and 90.0% of red deer examined. As regards chamois, it was found in one R. rupicapra originating from the Low Tatras, but not in any pure R. r. tatrica individual living in High and Western Tatras. The present work is the first confirmation of northern chamois infection with this alien, blood-sucking nematode.
Conclusions

Due to an important health hazard related to A. sidemi infection for the Tatra chamois (R. r. tatrica), appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the possibility of parasite transmission between various cervid species living in the Tatra area, as well as the affected population of chamois, and the pure Tatra chamois population existing in the higher parts of the mountains, constituting their natural habitat.
VGG-CovidNet: A Bi-Branched Dilated Convolutional Neural Network for Detection of COVID-19 Cases from Chest X-Ray Images
Authors: Albahar Marwan , Binsawad Muhammed , Binsawad Abdullah
Published: December 2020

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a devastating impact on the worldwide population’s health and welfare. A key measure that is taken in combating COVID-19 is eﬀectively screening infected patients. A vital screening process is examination through chest radiology. Initial studies have shown irregularities in the chest radiography images of patients speciﬁc to those suﬀering from the COVID-19 infection. Motivated and inspired by the research community’s open source eﬀorts, this study introduces a dilated bi-branched convoluted neural network (CNN) architecture called VGG-COVIDNet, tailored to detect COVID-19 cases from chest X-ray (CXR) images. Results: The simulation results show that the proposed architecture yielded the highest accuracy and produced the highest sensitivity compared to state-of-the-art architectures. The proposed architecture’s accuracy and sensitivity are 96.5% and 96%, respectively, for each of the infection types. Conclusions: We applied VGG-CovidNet, a VGG-16, and dilated convolution-based bi-branched architecture for classifying diﬀerent types of infectious images into corresponding classes. The front end of the VGG-CovidNet is integrated with the ﬁrst 10 layers of the VGG-16 model. In these layers, the convolution is reduced to two instead of three to alleviate the model’s computation complexity. Furthermore, the back end of the VGG-CovidNet consists of six parallel convolutional layers having diﬀerent strides of convolutional kernel. Using the dilated convolution, we can capture the spatial information of the feature maps and help reduce the complexity of the model.
Preliminary Results of first Belgian Cohort of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Where Do we Stand in Terms of Quality of Care and Remission?
Authors: La Céline , Lê Phu Quoc , Ferster Alina , Goffin Laurence , Lauwerys Bernard , Durez Patrick , Boulanger Cécile , Maertelaer Viviane De , Sokolova Tatiana , Badot Valérie
Published: December 2020

BackgroundJuvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) represents a very heterogeneous disease, and our objectives were to describe the first Belgian cohort of children with JIA, assess their disease characteristics and outcome and identify potential markers of prognosis.MethodsThe CAP48 cohort is a multicentric observational study of children with a recent or well-established diagnosis of JIA (naïve or not to treatment at baseline), evaluated every 6 months during a follow-up of 5 to 10 years.ResultsThere were 125 children included in the cohort, composed of 25 naïve and 100 established patients. The patients had a median age of 6.2 and 4.2 years at onset in the naïve and established cohort respectively, with a predominance of female. All subtypes of JIA were represented in both cohorts. The mean DAS28-CRP and JADAS10-CRP at baseline in naïve patients was 2.52 and 6.0 respectively. Uveitis occurred in 19% of patients and was strongly associated with presence of antinuclear antibodies (odds ratio of 6). Fifty-five percent of naïve patients were in remission at 12 months of follow-up according to the ACR criteria and JADAS10 scores, in contrast with 100% achieving DAS28 remission. ConclusionThis first cohort study in Belgium allowed to compare its data to other existing cohorts and to evaluate quality of care in Belgian French-speaking hospitals. Additionally, it highlighted a superiority of JADAS10 over DAS28 to monitor and evaluate remission in JIA. This study also underlined a need for more accurate markers of prognosis to improve treatment and long-term outcomes.
The Intermediate CD14+CD16+ Monocyte Subpopulation Plays a Role in IVIG Responsiveness of Children with Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Kim Yi Seul , Yang Hyun Jin , Choi Insu , Ha Kisoo , Ki Katrina K , Jeong In Seok , Cho Hwa Jin
Published: December 2020

Background: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute, self-limited febrile illness of unknown cause. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)-resistance are related to greater risk for permanent cardiac complications. We aimed to determine the correlation between monocytes and the phenotype of KD in relation to IVIG responsiveness in children. Materials and Methods: The study cohort included 62 patients who were diagnosed with KD, 20 non febrile healthy controls (NFC), and 15 other febrile controls (OFC). In all enrolled patients, blood was taken at least 4 times and laboratory tests were performed. In addition, subtypes of monocytes were characterized via flow cytometry. Results: The numbers of intermediate monocytes were significantly lower in IVIG-resistant group compared to IVIG-responsive group before IVIG infusion (p<0.0001). After infusion, intermediate monocytes decreased in the responsive group, while a trend of increase was observed in the resistant group. Only intermediate monocytes were significant in logistic regression with adjusted OR of 0.001 and p value of 0.03. Conclusions: CD14+CD16+ intermediate monocyte may play an important role in IVIG responsiveness among KD children. Low starting levels of intermediate monocytes, followed by a dramatic increase post-IVIG infusion during acute phase of KD are associated with IVIG-resistance. Functional studies on intermediate monocyte may help to reveal the pathophysiology.
High Antioxidant Activity and Low Toxicity of Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized With Virola Oleífera: An Approach Using Design of Experiments
Authors: Contreras Luis , Ferreira Debora , Keijok Wanderson , Silva Laryssa , Silva André da , Filho Eloi da Silva , Oliveira Jairo , Guimaraes Marco
Published: December 2020

Metallic nanoparticles synthesized by plant extracts and biomolecules represent one of the most promising frontiers in the antioxidants field. Plant compounds apart from act as reducing agents, also allow functionalizing these nanoparticles having multiple applications in different industries. However, the low reproducibility and the difficulty in size, shape and stability control have made it difficult to produce on a large scale. Here we report an optimization process to obtain gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) from green synthesis using a factorial design aiming to present a controlled synthesis using Virola oleifera as a reductant agent. We evaluate the influence of the reaction time, temperature, stirring rate, pH and extract concentration monitoring the Localized surface-plasmon resonance (LSPR) band shift (Δλ). The nanoparticles were characterized using Zeta potential, UV-vis, DLS, TEM, Raman spectroscopy, FTIR and XRD. The as-synthesized AuNPs were stable and homogenous, octahedral, monodisperse, and in shape and size and showed great antioxidant activity determined with ABTS+ and DPPH. Furthermore, these nanoparticles presented low cytotoxicity. Finally, using the factorial design, we were able to develop an optimal path for green gold nanoparticles with high antioxidant activity, low toxicity and good morphological characteristic.
Screening for Macroprolactinemia Is Indispensable for Proper Treatment of Hyperprolactinemia Microadenoma
Authors: DU JING , Li Yanchun , Shen Yuhuan , Yang Wei , Ye Ying , Chen Yongjian
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND: Macroprolactin microadenoma is a combination of non-functional microadenomas with macroprolactinemia. This study aimed to explore the significance of macroprolactinemia screening for the antidiastole of prolactin microadenoma and macroprolactin microadenoma.METHODS: Retrospective analysis of patients with pituitary microadenoma and screening for macroprolactinemia in patients with hyperprolactinemia was conducted. Based on the prolactin content and screening results, patients were divided into non-functional microadenoma, prolactin microadenoma, and macroprolactin microadenoma groups. The existing forms of prolactin in serum samples were analyzed by gel filtration chromatography and a luminescence immunoassay analyzer. The clinical course of patients and treatment were retrospectively reviewed.RESULTS: The results of gel filtration chromatography confirmed that prolactin in patients with macroprolactin microadenoma was mainly in the form of macromolecules, and the small molecular prolactin was within the normal range. Among 84 patients with hyperprolactin microadenomas, 9 (10.7 %) were diagnosed with macroprolactin microadenoma, and 5 (55.6 %) were treated with bromocriptine. The prolactin content (55.9 ~ 81.0 ng/mL) in the macroprolactin microadenoma group was elevated before the screening and significantly decreased (11.2 ~ 21.2 ng/mL) after screening. The incidence of clinical manifestations was the same as that of the non-functional microadenoma group, but the rate of drug use was higher, which was similar to that of the prolactin microadenoma group.CONCLUSION: Macroprolactinemia screening can effectively identify prolactin microadenomas and macroprolactin microadenomas, which prevent misdiagnosis and mistreatment of macroprolactin microadenomas.
Coronaphobia in Patients With Fibromyalgia.
Authors: Kulekcioglu Sevinc , Akyüz Merve , İnan Özenç , Çetin Alp
Published: December 2020

Background: Throughout the world, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has had a significant effect on human health and daily life. Recent data in literature showed that the COVID-19 pandemic has increased mental health problems. One of these problems, including specific phobia called as “coronaphobia”. The aim of this study was to measure the level of specific phobia created by the COVID-19 pandemic in fibromyalgia (FMS) patients, and to compare this with levels of coronaphobia in patients without FMS.Results: Sixty-one patients participated in the study. Thirty patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia were included in the fibromyalgia group and 31 patients without a diagnosis of fibromyalgia in the control group. The sociodemographic data of all the patients and the presence of chronic disease were determined. All the patients in both groups were instructed to complete the COVID-19 Phobia Scale (C19P-S). The C19PS total score and psychological, psychosomatic, social, and economic subgroups scores were determined to be statistically significantly higher in the FMS group than in the control group (23.2 vs 16.3, 10.9 vs 7.1, 18.4 vs 12.1, and 10.5 vs 6.5 respectively).Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that FMS patients have more concerns in this extraordinary global pandemic situation. Early determination of COVID-19 phobia in individuals predisposed to psychological disorders, such as those with FMS, must be kept in mind in respect of providing timely psychological support and being able to keep the disease under control.
Prevalence and Methodological Characteristics of Subgroup Analyses in Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomised Trials: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Adisso Évèhouénou Lionel , Taljaard Monica , Rivest Louis-Paul , Zomahoun Hervé Tchala Vignon , Durand Pierre Jacob , Légaré France
Published: December 2020

Background: The stepped wedge cluster randomised trial is an increasingly common trial design. The design can be useful for informing real-world clinical decision-making, including decisions about the effectiveness of interventions in particular subgroups. However, there is little existing guidance about how to perform subgroup analyses in the stepped wedge design. We aim to determine the prevalence of subgroup analyses and describe statistical methods used to perform them in stepped wedge cluster randomised trials.Methods: We will conduct a systematic review following the methodology recommended in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We report this protocol according to the PRISMA-P checklist. The protocol has been registered in the Open Science Framework. We will search for terms related to ‘stepped wedge’. Sources will be PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Current Controlled Trials Register up to 16 October 2020. Studies will be eligible if they are written in English, involve human participants and are primary or secondary reports of planned or completed stepped wedge cluster randomised trials. Two reviewers will first screen the titles and abstracts, then full texts, to select studies that should be included in the review. Disagreements will be solved by consensus through discussion with a third reviewer. We will extract data related to study characteristics including presence or absence of subgroup analyses, characteristics of subgroup variables examined, statistical methods used to perform subgroup analyses, and adherence to the most consistently recommendations suggested for subgroup analyses in general including in clinical trials. We will perform a qualitative synthesis of the extracted data.Discussion: This protocol offers a reproducible and transparent procedure for a systematic review of the literature. It will provide a portrait of the frequency and types of subgroup analyses performed in stepped wedge cluster randomised trials. These results will inform the development of recommendations for subgroup analyses in such trials.Systematic review registration: This protocol has been registered on Open Science Framework, Registration ID: https://osf.io/2kwrz.