bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High carbohydrate intakes may predict more inflammatory status than high fat intakes in pre-menopause women with overweight or obesity: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Karimi Elmira , Yarizadeh Habib , Setayesh Leila , Sajjadi Seyyedeh Forough , Ghodoosi Nasim , Khorraminezhad Leil , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: July 2021

Objective

The associations between dietary carbohydrate, fat intake, and inflammation are controversial. Most existing data are from industrialized societies which low-carbohydrate and high-fat diet is common and so their attribution to other populations remains unclear. We evaluated the association of fat and carbohydrate intakes with inflammatory markers in pre-menopause women with overweight or obesity in Iran.

Results

Three hundred and sixty women with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 were included to this study. The levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) indicated a trend towards significance across tertiles of total dietary carbohydrate. We found that the levels of galectin-3 were negatively associated with dietary carbohydrate in adjusted model. In addition, the levels of MCP-1 and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) were positively correlated to dietary carbohydrate. No significant relationship was demonstrated between inflammatory parameters and total fat intake). However, there was a borderline significant negative association between total fat intake and TGF-β level in adjusted model. Therefore, a total dietary carbohydrate were related to elevated inflammation risk, while a total fat intake were not associated to higher inflammation. This study suggests reconsideration of applying global dietary guidelines in societies with high carbohydrate diet.
Competitive blocking of salivary gland [18F]DCFPyL uptake via localized, retrograde ductal injection of non-radioactive DCFPyL: a preclinical study
Authors: Roy Jyoti , Warner Blake M. , Basuli Falguni , Zhang Xiang , Zheng Changyu , Goldsmith Corrine , Phelps Tim , Wong Karen , Ton Anita T. , Pieschl Rick , White Margaret E. , Swenson Rolf , Chiorini John A. , Choyke Peter L. , Lin Frank I.
Published: July 2021

Background

PSMA-targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) is a promising treatment for prostate cancer (PCa), but dose-limiting xerostomia can severely limit its clinical adaptation, especially when using alpha-emitting radionuclides. With [18F]DCFPyL as a surrogate for PSMA-TRT, we report a novel method to selectively reduce salivary gland (SG) uptake of systemically administered [18F]DCFPyL by immediate prior infusion of non-radioactive standard of [18F]DCFPyL (DCFPyL) directly into the SG via retrograde cannulation.

Methods

A dose-finding cohort using athymic nude mice demonstrated proof of principle that SG uptake can be selectively blocked by DCFPyL administered either locally via cannulation (CAN group) or systemically (SYS group). The experiments were repeated in a validation cohort of 22RV1 tumor-bearing mice. Submandibular glands (SMG) of CAN mice were locally blocked with either saline or DCFPyL (dose range: 0.01× to 1000× molar equivalent of the radioactive [18F]DCFPyL dose). The radioactive dose of [18F]DCFPyL was administered systemically 10 min later and the mice euthanized after 1 h for biodistribution studies. Toxicity studies were done at up to 1000× dose.

Results

In the dose-finding cohort, the SYS group showed a dose-dependent 12–40% decrease in both the SMG T/B and the kidney (tumor surrogate). Mild blocking was observed at 0.01× , with maximal blocking reached at 1× with no additional blocking up to 1000× . In the CAN group, blocking at the 0.1× and 1× dose levels resulted in a similar 42–53% decrease, but without the corresponding decrease in kidney uptake as seen in the SYS group. Some evidence of “leakage” of DCFPyL from the salivary gland into the systemic circulation was observed. However, experiments in 22RV1 tumor-bearing mice at the 0.1× and 1× dose levels confirm that, at the appropriate blocking dose, SG uptake of [18F]DCFPyL can be selectively reduced without affecting tumor uptake and with no toxicity.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that direct retrograde instillation of DCFPyL into the SG could predictably and selectively decrease salivary uptake of systemically administered [18F]DCFPyL without altering tumor uptake, if given at the appropriate dose. This novel approach is easily translatable to clinical practice and has the potential to mitigate xerostomia, without compromising the therapeutic efficacy of the PSMA-TRT.
Performance vs. hardware requirements in state-of-the-art automatic speech recognition
Authors: Georgescu Alexandru-Lucian , Pappalardo Alessandro , Cucu Horia , Blott Michaela
Published: July 2021

The last decade brought significant advances in automatic speech recognition (ASR) thanks to the evolution of deep learning methods. ASR systems evolved from pipeline-based systems, that modeled hand-crafted speech features with probabilistic frameworks and generated phone posteriors, to end-to-end (E2E) systems, that translate the raw waveform directly into words using one deep neural network (DNN). The transcription accuracy greatly increased, leading to ASR technology being integrated into many commercial applications. However, few of the existing ASR technologies are suitable for integration in embedded applications, due to their hard constrains related to computing power and memory usage. This overview paper serves as a guided tour through the recent literature on speech recognition and compares the most popular ASR implementations. The comparison emphasizes the trade-off between ASR performance and hardware requirements, to further serve decision makers in choosing the system which fits best their embedded application. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to provide this kind of trade-off analysis for state-of-the-art ASR systems.
Information flow to increase support for tidal energy development in remote islands of a developing country: agent-based simulation of information flow in Flores Timur Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Ramachandran Rohit , Kularathna A. H. T. Shyam , Matsuda Hirotaka , Takagi Ken
Published: July 2021

Background

Public awareness is crucial for successful deployment of tidal energy, a renewable energy source that can provide clean electricity to remote islands. However, considering public attitudes on tidal energy are not well known, especially in developing countries, a barrier exists in implementing public engagement strategies. This study aims to contribute by identifying strategies for information provision—the initial step in public engagement—and estimate how these can be engaged to enhance support for tidal energy among the local public in a remote area of a developing country, in this case, Flores Timur Regency, Indonesia, considering their socio-cultural background.

Methods

In this paper, we employ statistical analyses using multinomial probit modelling to identify the key variables that shape information flow. The aptness of the variables is then verified using post-estimation techniques for their use as input parameters for the simulation of the information flow in the field study area. Agent-based simulation (ABS) is employed to replicate the actual conditions in Flores Timur Regency, Indonesia, and simulate the flow of information through the local community.

Results

According to the multinomial probit estimations, the people belonging to the top hierarchical group show a higher probability to support tidal energy compared to the members belonging to the lower groups. Understandably, around twice as many information flow cycles are needed to disseminate information to the members of the lowest hierarchical group, compared to the members of the top hierarchical group. The results also show that increasing the amount of available information has a positive impact on information dissemination.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that information provision is highly effective with propagation of information that specifically highlights the individual benefits, rather than the community benefits of tidal energy. Additionally, savings in terms of costs, time, and efforts can be realized if the most influential members of the local community are targeted initially before including all other stakeholders. The study also indicated that locals absorb more information and increase their support for tidal energy when additional data is made available. Finally, as long-term strategy, information provision becomes most effective when the local population gains higher educational capabilities.
Accuracy of digital planning in zygomatic implants
Authors: Xing Gao B. , Iglesias-Velázquez O. , G.F. Tresguerres F. , Rodríguez González Cortes A. , F. Tresguerres I. , Ortega Aranegui R. , López-Pintor R. M. , López-Quiles J. , Torres J.
Published: July 2021

Background

Zygomatic implants have been described as a therapeutic alternative for patients with severe maxillary atrophy in order to avoid bone augmentation procedures. Taking that into account, in these treatments, the key factor is the position of the implant, the virtual surgical planning (VSP) is widespread among most clinicians before surgery on the patient. However, there are no studies which evaluate the clinical relevance of these VSP.

The aim of this study is to determine whether digital planning on zygomatic implants has any influence on the implant dimensions and position, even when performing conventional surgery afterwards.

Results

Fourteen zygomatic implants were placed in four patients. Pre-operative and post-operative helicoidal computed tomography were performed to each patient to allow the comparison between the digital planning and the final position of implants. Tridimensional deviation (TD), mesio-distal deviation (MDD), bucco-palatine deviation (BPD), and apico-coronal deviation (ACD) were evaluated as well as angular deviation (AD). Significative differences in apical TD were observed with a mean of 6.114 ± 4.28 mm (p < 0.05). Regarding implant position, only implants placed in the area of the first right molar reported significant differences (p < 0.05) for ACD. Also, implant length larger than 45 mm showed BPD significative differences (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Zygomatic implant surgery is a complex surgical procedure, and although VSP is a useful tool which helps the clinician determine the number and the length of zygomatic implants as well as its proper position, surgical experience is still mandatory.
177Lu-DOTATATE Plus Radiosensitizing Capecitabine Versus Octreotide Long-Acting Release as First-Line Systemic Therapy in Advanced Grade 1 or 2 Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Satapathy Swayamjeet , Mittal Bhagwant R. , Sood Ashwani , Sood Apurva , Kapoor Rakesh , Gupta Rajesh , Khosla Divya
Published: July 2021

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety of 177Lu-DOTATATE plus radiosensitizing capecitabine and octreotide long-acting release (LAR) as first-line systemic therapy in advanced well-differentiated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of consecutive patients of advanced inoperable or metastatic grade 1 or 2 GEP-NETs treated with first-line 177Lu-DOTATATE plus radiosensitizing capecitabine or octreotide LAR from September 2012 to December 2019 were collected and analyzed for response, toxicity, and survival outcomes.

RESULTS

Seventy-six patients (median age: 53 years; range 14-81 years) with treatment-naïve advanced grade 1 or 2 GEP-NETs were included. Thirty-six patients received a median cumulative dose of 27.3 GBq of 177Lu-DOTATATE intravenously at 8-12 weeks' intervals along with 1,250 mg/m2 oral capecitabine on days 0-14 of each cycle of 177Lu-DOTATATE, whereas 40 patients were administered 30 mg octreotide LAR intramuscularly every 4 weeks. Using response evaluation criteria in solid tumor 1.1, the objective response rate was 38% in the 177Lu-DOTATATE arm compared with 15% in the octreotide LAR arm ( P = .025), whereas the disease control rates were 88% and 67% in 177Lu-DOTATATE and octreotide LAR arms, respectively ( P = .035). The median durations of progression-free survival in the 177Lu-DOTATATE and octreotide LAR arms were 54 months and 16 months, respectively ( P = .017), whereas the median overall survival was not reached and not significantly different across both the arms. Of the treatment-related adverse events, no major difference was observed in the occurrence of grade 3 or 4 toxicities between the two treatment arms.

CONCLUSION

First-line systemic 177Lu-DOTATATE plus radiosensitizing capecitabine achieved better radiologic response and longer progression-free survival compared with octreotide LAR in patients with advanced grade 1 or 2 GEP-NETs. Future randomized controlled trials are, however, required to determine the best treatment sequence for the treatment-naïve patients with advanced GEP-NETs.
Randomized Phase II Trial Evaluating Two Sequential Treatments in First Line of Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: Results of the PANOPTIMOX-PRODIGE 35 Trial
Authors: Dahan Laetitia , Williet Nicolas , Le Malicot Karine , Phelip Jean-Marc , Desrame Jérôme , Bouché Olivier , Petorin Caroline , Malka David , Rebischung Christine , Aparicio Thomas , Lecaille Cédric , Rinaldi Yves , Turpin Anthony , Bignon Anne-Laure , Bachet Jean-Baptiste , Seitz Jean-François , Lepage Come , François Eric ,   for the PRODIGE 35 Investigators/Collaborators
Published: July 2021

PURPOSE

Metastatic pancreatic cancer (mPC) still harbors a dismal prognosis. Our previous trial (PRODIGE 4—ACCORD 11) demonstrated the superiority of 6-month chemotherapy with fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) over gemcitabine for overall survival. The high limiting oxaliplatin-related neurotoxicity supports the evaluation of an oxaliplatin stop-and-go strategy and a sequential strategy in mPC.

METHODS

In this phase II study, patients were randomly assigned to receive either 6 months of FOLFIRINOX (arm A), 4 months of FOLFIRINOX followed by leucovorin plus fluorouracil maintenance treatment for controlled patients (arm B), or a sequential treatment alternating gemcitabine and fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan every 2 months (arm C). The primary end point was progression-free survival at 6 months.

RESULTS

Between January 2015 and November 2016, 276 patients (mean age: 63 years; range: 40-76 years) were enrolled (A: 91, B: 92, and C: 90). Grade 3 or 4 neurotoxicity occurred in 10.2% of patients in arm A and 19.8% in arm B. The median ratio of received dose/targeted dose of oxaliplatin was 83% in arm A and 92% in arm B. The 6-month progression-free survival was 47.1% in A, 42.9% in B, and 34.1% in C. The median overall survival was 10.1 months in arm A, 11.2 in arm B, and 7.3 in arm C. Median survival without deterioration in quality-of-life scores was higher in the maintenance arm (11.4 months) than in arms A and C (7.2 and 7.5 months, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Maintenance with leucovorin plus fluorouracil appears to be feasible and effective in patients with mPC controlled after 4 months of induction chemotherapy with FOLFIRINOX. Severe neurotoxicity was higher in the maintenance therapy arm, probably because of the higher cumulative dose of oxaliplatin.
MRI findings in-between leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma: a Rad-Path correlation of degenerated leiomyomas and variants
Authors: Bura Vlad , Pintican Roxana Maria , David Reka Emma , Addley Helen Clare , Smith Janette , Jimenez-Linan Mercedes , Lee Janice , Freeman Susan , Georgiu Carmen
Published: July 2021

Leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors of the uterus. On the opposite side, leiomyosarcomas are rare malignant uterine tumors that account for a significant proportion of uterine cancer deaths. Especially when large and degenerated, leiomyomas and leiomyoma variants can have overlapping imaging characteristics with those of leiomyosarcomas. Although not always possible, it is paramount to be able to differentiate between leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas on imaging, as the therapeutic management can differ. This pictorial review aims to familiarize radiologists with imaging features of leiomyomas and various types of leiomyoma degeneration and variants, together with their pathology correlates.
FIELDRT: an open-source platform for the assessment of target volume delineation in radiation therapy
Authors: Piazzese Concetta , Evans Elin , Thomas Betsan , Staffurth John , Gwynne Sarah , Spezi Emiliano
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

Target volume delineation (TVD) has been identified as a weakness in the accuracy of radiotherapy, both within and outside of clinical trials due to the intra/interobserver variations affecting the TVD quality. Sources of variations such as poor compliance or protocol violation may have adverse effect on treatment outcomes. In this paper, we present and describe the FIELDRT software developed for the ARENA project to improve the quality of TVD through qualitative and quantitative feedbacks and individual and personalized summary of trainee”s performance.

Methods:

For each site-specific clinical case included in the FIELDRT software, reference volumes, minimum and maximum “acceptable” volumes and organ at risk were derived by outlines of consultants and senior trainees. The software components currently developed include: (a) user-friendly importing interface (b) analysis toolbox to compute quantitative and qualitative (c) visualiser and (d) structured report generator for personalised feedback. The FIELDRT software was validated by comparing the performance of 63 trainees and by measuring performance over time. In addition, a trainee evaluation day was held in 2019 to collect feedback on FIELDRT.

Results:

Results show the trainees’ improvement when reoutlining a case after reviewing the feedback generated from the FIELDRT software. Comments and feedback received after evaluation day were positive and confirmed that FIELDRT can be a useful application for training purposes.

Conclusion:

We presented a new open-source software to support education in TVD and ongoing continuous professional development for clinical oncology trainees and consultants. ARENA in combination with FIELDRT implements site-specific modules with reference target and organs at risk volumes and automatically evaluates individual performance using several quantitative and qualitative feedbacks. Pilot results suggests this software could be used as an education tool to reduce variation in TVD so to guarantee high quality in radiotherapy.

Advances in knowledge:

FIELDRT is a new easy and free to use software aiming at supporting education in TVD and ongoing continuous professional development. The software provides quantitative/qualitative feedback and an exportable report with an individual and personalised summary of trainee’s performance.
A case of CRPC with multiple bladder invasions treated with EBRT followed by HDR-BT boost
Authors: Takagawa Yoshiaki , Itami Jun
Published: July 2021

We report a case of post-operative local recurrence of castration-resistant prostate cancer with multiple bulky bladder invasions treated using external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) followed by a high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) boost. The EBRT dose was 46 Gy delivered in 23 fractions with intensity-modulated radiotherapy to the entire pelvis. The HDR-BT dose was 15 Gy delivered in 1 fraction using ultrasound, CT, and MRI-guided brachytherapy with 18 interstitial needles. We achieved excellent local control of cancer in the prostate bed and multiple bulky bladder invasions. EBRT plus HDR-BT boost can allow higher doses to be delivered than EBRT alone for locally recurrent bulky prostate cancer following prostatectomy.
Asymptomatic chronic suppurative cholecystitis and peritonitis mimicking metastasis by 18F-FDG PET/CT scan during sigmoid colon cancer surveillance
Authors: Sun Yanqin , Yu MingMing , Li DaCheng , Sun LingLing , Wang Zhenguang
Published: July 2021

The study describes an unusual case that a patient with previous history of adenocarcinoma of sigmoid colon who has developed chronic suppurative cholecystitis and peritonitis was misdiagnosed as metastasis. This case is presented to illustrate the importance of considering benign etiologies that may mimic metastatic disease when interpreting positron emmision tomography (PET)/CT scans.
Διερεύνηση των σχέσεων μεταξύ των σωματομετρικών χαρακτηριστικών και των επιπέδων φυσικής δραστηριότητας σε ελληνικούς μαθητικούς πληθυσμούς
Authors: Μπουζιώτας Κωνσταντίνος , Ντάνης Απόστολος , Σίσκος Βασίλειος , Ιωσηφίδου Πηνελόπη
Published: July 2021

O σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας είναι η καταγραφή των σωματομετρικών χαρακτηριστικών και των επιπέδων φυσικής δραστηριότητας, καθώς και η διερεύνηση των σχέσεων μεταξύ τους, σε παιδιά Δημοτικού και Γυμνασίου της Κεντρικής Μακεδονίας. Ένα εθελοντικό δείγμα 1233 μαθητών/ -τριών (312 αγοριών και 328 κοριτσιών της ΣΤ΄ Δημοτικού και 291 αγοριών και 302 κοριτσιών της Γ΄ Γυμνασίου) που προερχόταν από σχολεία αστικής, ημιαστικής και αγροτικής περιοχής της Κεντρικής Μακεδονίας, τα οποία επιλέχθηκαν με διαστρωματοποιημένη δειγματοληψία βάσει των κωδικών τους αριθμών, υποβλήθηκαν σε ανθρωπομετρικές μετρήσεις (βάρος, ύψος, δείκτη μάζας σώματος, περίμετρο μέσης). Επιπλέον, με τη βοήθεια ενός σταθμισμένου ερωτηματολογίου υπολογίστηκε η συνολική φυσική δραστηριότητα των παιδιών. Η ανάλυση και η επεξεργασία των δεδομένων έδειξε ότι το 34.2% των αγοριών του Δημοτικού και το 33.3% των αγοριών του Γυμνασίου ήταν υπέρβαρα ή παχύσαρκα. Αντίστοιχα, το 36.7% των κοριτσιών του Δημοτικού και το 26,9% των κοριτσιών του Γυμνασίου ήταν υπέρβαρα ή παχύσαρκα. Το 19.27% του συνόλου των μαθητών υπολείπονταν του στόχου, τουλάχιστον μιας ώρας καθημερινής φυσικής δραστηριότητας, ενώ 61.08% του συνόλου των μαθητών υπερέβαιναν τα όρια  των πέντε ωρών καθιστικής  ασχολίας  ημερησίως. Εντοπίστηκε μια χαμηλή θετική σημαντική συσχέτιση μεταξύ του ΔΜΣ και των αναλωμένων ωρών σε Καθιστικές Δραστηριότητες ημερησίως (r=.09, p<.01). Αντίθετα, προέκυψε μια αρνητική, παρόμοια χαμηλή, σημαντική συσχέτιση μεταξύ του ΔΜΣ και των αναλωμένων ωρών στις καθημερινές Φυσικές Δραστηριότητες (r=-.09, p< .01). Τα αυξημένα ποσοστά υπέρβαρων και παχύσαρκων Ελλήνων μαθητών/-τριών που διαπιστώθηκαν και στην παρούσα μελέτη, δείχνουν ότι  σχετίζονται σε κάποιο βαθμό με τις καθημερινές φυσικές ή καθιστικές τους δραστηριότητες. Οι στρατηγικές πρωτογενούς πρόληψης, επομένως, για την αντιμετώπιση της παιδικής παχυσαρκίας, προάγγελου των μεταβολικών και καρδιαγγειακών παθήσεων στον ενήλικο πληθυσμό, θα πρέπει να επικεντρώνονται στην αύξηση των ωρών της φυσικής δραστηριότητας στην παιδική ηλικία, σαν παράγοντα αύξησης της ημερήσιας δαπάνης ενέργειας και διασφάλισης της φυσικής επάρκειας των παιδιών.
What Testimony Does to Literature
Authors: Detue Frédérik , Lacoste Charlotte
Published: July 2021

This article sheds light on a literary practice that critics began to reflect upon in the twentieth century: witnessing. This genre, by adopting a narrative model based on statements of evidence presented in the courtroom, distinguishes itself from other forms of expression practiced by witnesses. Survivors of political violence take up their pens and describe the situation they have been subjected to, so as to attest to historical facts and prevent erasure of the event through forgetting, denial or negation. This enterprise, which seeks to document lived experience and thereby pay homage to victims who did not survive, constitutes both a source of evidence for legal procedure and a contribution to the writing of history. Witnessing, however literary it may be, is founded on a pact of veracity, in which witnesses are bound to relate no more than their own experience and to do so with precision. Finally, witness accounts are addressed to society at large or even to humanity as a whole, in the hope of emancipating it from such violence by raising awareness of its intolerable nature. Though witnessing still lacks legitimacy within the literary field, the link it establishes between ethical, aesthetic and political positions makes this genre exemplary of what literature is capable of.
Giving Presence to the Present
Authors: Karavanta Mina
Published: July 2021

Section Introduction
The paradoxes of love in the Spanish family: a sociological approach
Authors: Roche Cárcel Juan Antonio
Published: July 2021

This article defines the Spanish family in the context of the “Mediterranean model” and the “individualization society”. The former is characterised by strong social interrelationships between family members and their emotional ties, while the latter is defined by the separateness of citizens and by institutionalising the basis of society in individuals rather than in the family. The work also describes how modern forms of love, both romantic and confluent, are institutionalized in this society, discussing if they coexist or not, how they exist, and which is the dominant form. Finally, it analyzes the degree of strength or fragility of the family institution and the affective relationships that sustain it. 

The work concludes that the Spanish family is balancing between the strong resistance to disappear as an institution and its eclipse, crisis, or complete end. This is because, although the Spanish family still retains a large part of its former functions, at the same time as divorce is on the increase and family members are decreasing, it is increasingly ephemeral and a plurality of family forms have emerged that have broken with the traditional dominant model of lifelong romantic marriage. Moreover, the Spanish family is also among the “familist” model and the individual, while the way of loving fluctuates between the traditional patriarchal and the democratic, individual, and communitary. Thus, the thesis I propose qualifies and questions the majority of theoretical works on love and the Spanish family, which argue that the family is inscribed in the “Mediterranean model”. As will be seen, the romantic relationships that have been institutionalised in the Spanish family are more paradoxical, insofar as they are still inscribed in that model, but they are rapidly approaching those of Northern Europe.
Whole genome sequencing of colonies derived from cannabis flowers and the impact of media selection on benchmarking total yeast and mold detection tools
Authors: McKernan Kevin , Helbert Yvonne , Kane Liam , Houde Nathan , Zhang Lei , McLaughlin Stephen
Published: July 2021

Background:

Cannabis products are subjected to microbial testing for pathogenic fungi and bacteria. These testing requirements often rely on non-specific colony forming unit (CFU/g) specifications without clarity on which medium, selection or growth times are required. We performed whole genome sequencing to assess the specificity of colony forming units (CFU) derived from three different plating media: Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), PDA with chloramphenicol and Dichloran Rose Bengal with chloramphenicol (DRBC).

Methods:

Colonies were isolated from each medium type and their whole genomes sequenced to identify the diversity of microbes present on each medium selection. Fungal Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS3) and Bacterial 16S RNA(16S) quantitative polymerase chain reactions (qPCR) were performed, to correlate these CFUs with fungi- and bacterial- specific qPCR.

Results:

Each plating medium displayed a ten-fold difference in CFU counts. PDA with chloramphenicol showed the highest diversity and the highest concordance with whole genome sequencing. According to ITS3 and 16S qPCR confirmed with whole genome sequencing, DRBC under counted yeast and mold while PDA without chloramphenicol over counted CFUs due to bacterial growth without selection.

Conclusions:

Colony Forming Unit regulations lack specificity. Each medium produces significant differences in CFU counts. These are further dependent on subjective interpretation, failure to culture most microbes, and poor selection between bacteria and fungi. Given the most pathogenic microbes found on cannabis are endophytes which culture fails to detect, molecular methods offer a solution to this long-standing quantification problem in the cannabis testing field.
Sleep quality among undergraduate students of a medical college in Nepal during COVID-19 pandemic: an online survey
Authors: Shrestha Dhan , Adhikari Suman Prasad , Rawal Namrata , Budhathoki Pravash , Pokharel Subashchandra , Adhikari Yuvraj , Rokaya Pooja , Raut Udit
Published: July 2021

Background

Good sleep quality is associated with a diverse range of positive outcomes such as better health, less daytime sleepiness, well-being and proper psychological functioning. Sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality leads to many metabolic, endocrine, and immune changes. Many studies have shown changes in sleep schedule along with worsening of sleep quality during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among students of a medical college in Kathmandu, Nepal from January 13, 2021 to February 15, 2021. A stratified random sampling technique was used. Data were collected using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Questionnaires that were completely filled were included and analyzed using STATA vs. 15.

Results

168(n=190) medical students filled out the questionnaires with a response rate of 88.42%. Around 30% (n=51) of respondents had poor sleep quality (PSQI total score of > 5) with an average PSQI score of 4.24±2.19. Unadjusted logistic regression analysis showed significantly higher odds of poor sleep quality among females (OR, 2.25; CI, 1.14-4.43) compared with male and the relation persists even after adjusting with age and year in medical school (aOR, 2.81; CI, 1.35-5.86).  Adjusting with age and gender, 4 th-year MBBS students had 82% lesser odds of having poor sleep quality compared to 2 nd-year MBBS students (aOR, 0.18; CI, 0.04-0.76). Our study is suggestive of poor sleep quality common among medical students.

Conclusions

More than a quarter of medical students have a poor sleep quality as per our study. So, education and awareness should be raised among medical students regarding the detrimental effects of poor quality sleep on daily activities, physical and mental well-being, and the overall quality of life.
Direct and indirect effects of COVID-19 on perinatal outcomes in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Ratu Felisita Tupou , Ryan Kathleen , Gidi Netsanet Workneh , Vereti Ilisapeci , Girma Tsinuel , Oats Jeremy , Bucens Ingrid , Robinson Alexandra , von Mollendorf Claire , Russell Fiona M.
Published: July 2021

Similar to previous outbreaks, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic will have both direct and indirect effects on perinatal outcomes, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Limited data on the direct impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during pregnancy shows women who are Black, obese and with co-morbidities are at higher risk of hospitalisation due to COVID-19. Younger age groups in Africa and South Asia have shown increased COVID-19 mortality. Indigenous pregnant women in Pacific Island countries are likely to be high risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19 due to high rates of diabetes and obesity. It is important to involve pregnant women in research, especially with regards to vaccine development and therapeutics.
Efficacy and safety of moxidectin and albendazole compared to ivermectin and albendazole co-administration in adolescents infected with Trichuris trichiura: a randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Welsche Sophie , Mrimi Emmanuel C. , Keller Ladina , Hürlimann Eveline , Hofmann Daniela , Hattendorf Jan , Ali Said M. , Keiser Jennifer
Published: July 2021

Background: Infections with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) predominantly affect impoverished populations in tropical environments. The periodic administration of single dose benzimidazoles (i.e., albendazole, mebendazole) to at-risk individuals in endemic regions is at the center of STH control strategies. Given the low efficacy of these drugs against trichuriasis, investigation of drug combinations including moxidectin and ivermectin has recently been initiated, yet the identification of the best treatment option requires more research. We present the protocol for a trial investigating the efficacy and safety of co-administered moxidectin and albendazole compared to co-administered ivermectin and albendazole against Trichuris trichiura.

Methods: We will conduct a randomized controlled trial enrolling 540 T. trichiura-infected adolescents aged 12-19 years on Pemba Island (Tanzania). The primary objective is to demonstrate non-inferiority of orally co-administered single-dose moxidectin (8 mg)/albendazole (400 mg) compared to orally co-administered single-dose ivermectin (200 µg/kg)/albendazole (400 mg) in terms of egg reduction rates (ERRs) against T. trichiura infections assessed by Kato-Katz at 14-21 days post-treatment. Secondary objectives include the assessment of the drug combinations’ superiority compared to their respective monotherapies, of the cure rates (CRs) against T. trichiura, and the safety and tolerability of all treatments, as well as CRs and ERRs against concomitant STH infections (Ascaris lumbricoides and hookworm). Potential effects of the treatment regimens on follow-up prevalences of STH at 5-6 weeks and 3 months post-treatment, infection status derived by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and pharmacokinetic/  pharmacodynamic parameters will also be assessed. Furthermore, a subsample of stool specimens will be analyzed by an updated version of the FECPAKG2 platform.

Conclusions: Results from this trial will help to inform decision- and policymakers on which anthelminthic combination therapy might improve existing deworming programs and provide a valuable adjunct tool for interrupting STH transmission.

Clinicaltrials.gov registration: NCT04700423 (07/01/2021)
Design and Clinical Evaluation of Pharmacologic Stress-Test with Dalargin for SPECT Detection of Viable Myocardium in Patients after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Bukhovets I. , Vasiltseva O. , Lishmanov Yu. , Vorozhtsova I. , Lavrov A. , Ivanovskaya E. , Cherniavskii A. , Ussov W.
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To develop a functional stress-test with Dalargin used as a pharmacological stress agent and to study its diagnostic capabilities for quantifying the general and segmental systolic function of the left ventricle in patients with IHD using SPECT and echo methods.

Material and methods: The study comprised 29 male patients with CHD-angina of 2-3 functional classes, studied on 15–25 days (on average 20 ± 2.8 days) after a large-focal myocardial infarction. A fractional step-wise injection of Dalargin was performed with step doses as 0.1 mg / kg (1 ml up to a total of 8 ml, with intervals of 90 seconds, for a total of 12 minutes), in a supine position. After each dose of Dalargin, blood pressure, heart rate, ECG were recorded, and an echocardiographic assessment of hemodynamic parameters and local contractility was carried out. At the peak of the effect of dalargin, 99mTc-Tetrofosmin was administered intravenously (370 – 540 MBq), followed by chest SPECT.

Results: The optimal dose of dalargin for assessing the contractility of the LV was 0.3 mg/kg. From the data of myocardial perfusion SPECT, at dalargin test, the number of segments with normal regional blood supply increased statistically significantly from 56,0 % to 64,7 %, the number of hypoperfused segments decreased from 41.0% to 33.7% as compared to rest, and the number of non-perfused ones – from 3.0 % to 1.6 %. Spearman’s correlation coefficient between segmental contractility and local perfusion at the top dalargin inotropic effect was high and significant (R=0.67, p<0.01). The sensitivity and specificity of the pharmacological test with intravenous administration of dalargin for prediction of postoperative improvement of perfusion and contractility of the viable myocardium were: sensitivity 78.8 %, specificity 76.4 %, diagnostic accuracy 77.6 %.

Conclusion. The use of the agonist of the μ - and δ-opioid receptors dalargin as a pharmacological stress-agent at perfusion SPECT and Stress Echocardiography to assess the contractile reserve of a dysfunctional viable myocardium is informative and appropriate. In patients with IHD who have suffered a myocardial infarction and are referred to myocardial revascularization, dalargin can be employed as an effective stress-agent for assessing the reserve of perfusion and contractility of dysfunctional left ventricular myocardium using perfusion SPECT and echocardiography.
Discrete Choice Prox-Functions on the Simplex
Authors: Müller David , Nesterov Yurii , Shikhman Vladimir
Published: July 2021

We derive new prox-functions on the simplex from additive random utility models of discrete choice. They are convex conjugates of the corresponding surplus functions. In particular, we explicitly derive the convexity parameter of discrete choice prox-functions associated with generalized extreme value models, and specifically with generalized nested logit models. Incorporated into subgradient schemes, discrete choice prox-functions lead to a probabilistic interpretations of the iteration steps. As illustration, we discuss an economic application of discrete choice prox-functions in consumer theory. The dual averaging scheme from convex programming adjusts demand within a consumption cycle.
A 2% taurolidine catheter lock solution prevents catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) and catheter dysfunction in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Neusser Matthias Alexander , Bobe Irina , Hammermeister Anne , Wittmann Udo
Published: July 2021

HIGHLIGHTS

2% taurolidine catheter lock solution without additives is safe and efficient. CRBSI and dysfunction rates compare favorably against other studies in hemodialysis

Background:

In hemodialysis patients, catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) and catheter dysfunction are common and cause significant morbidity, mortality, and costs. Catheter lock solutions reduce CRBSI and catheter dysfunction rates, but solutions containing heparin, citrate, or antibiotics are associated with adverse effects. Due to its antimicrobial and antithrombotic properties and benign safety profile, taurolidine is suitable for use in catheter lock solutions. In this study the effectiveness and safety of a catheter lock solution containing 2% taurolidine without citrate or heparin (TauroSept®, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) in hemodialysis patients were investigated for the first time.

Methods:

Data from 21 patients receiving chronic hemodialysis via tunneled central venous catheters with 2% taurolidine solution as a catheter lock were analyzed in a single-center retrospective study and compared with the existing literature in a review. The primary endpoint was CRBSI rate. Secondary endpoints included catheter dysfunction, treatment, and costs; catheter technical problems, resolution, and costs; and adverse events. Data were compared to outcomes with standard lock solutions in the literature.

Results:

No CRBSIs occurred during the observation period of 5,639 catheter days. The catheter dysfunction rate was 0.71 per 1,000 catheter days, and the catheter dysfunction treatment costs were CHF (Swiss Franc) 543 per patient. No technical problems or adverse events related to the use of 2% taurolidine-containing catheter lock solution were observed. These results compare favorably with other catheter lock solutions.

Conclusions:

A solution containing 2% taurolidine seems suitable as a hemodialysis catheter lock. In a Swiss cohort, it prevented CRBSI, limited catheter dysfunction, and was cost-efficient.
A modification of the Ponseti method for clubfoot management: A prospective comparative study
Authors: Sheta Reda Ali , El-Sayed Mohamed , Abdel-Ghani Hisham , Saber Sameh , Mohammed Amani Salah Eldin , Hassan Tohamy Gouda Tohamy
Published: July 2021

Purpose

We aimed to compare our parent-based exercise programem's efficacy with the foot abduction brace (FAB) Ponseti manipulation as a retention programme.

Methods

We conducted this prospective multicentre cohort study between August 2009 and November 2019. The included children were allocated into one of two groups according to the retention protocol. The Pirani and Laaveg-Ponseti scores were used to assess the feet clinically and functionally. Radiological assessment was performed using standing anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the feet. We assessed the parents’ satisfaction and adherence to the retention method. SPSS version 25 was used for the statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 1265 feet in 973 children were included. Group A included 637 feet managed with FAB, while group B included 628 feet managed with our retention programme. All patients were followed up to the age of four years. At the final follow-up, Pirani scores in group A participants were excellent, good and poor in 515, 90, and 32 feet, respectivel, while in group B the scores were excellent, good and poor in 471, 110 and 44 feet, respectively. The mean total score of Laaveg-Ponseti was 87.81 (sd 19.82) in group A and 90.55 (sd 20.71) in group B (p = 0.02). Group B participants showed higher satisfaction with the treatment method (p = 0.011) and more adherence to the treatment (p = 0.013).

Conclusion

The deformity's recurrence related to the brace's non-compliance in the Ponseti method might be reduced by substituting the brace with our home-based daily stretching exercises.

Level of Evidence

II
الشخصية الحدية في علالاقتها المتبادلة بالجهد العاطفي والشعور بالفخر
للالانتماء إلى الجامعة لدى طلبة جامعة القدس المفتوحة
Authors: زياد بركات
Published: July 2021

هدفت هذه الد ا رسة التعرف إلى العلاقة المتبادلة بين الشخصية الحدية–والتي تتميز
بعدم الاستق ا رر في العلاقات بين الأشخاص وفي الصورة الذاتية، والأمزجة، والتحكّم
بالاندفاعات–والجهد العاطفي والشعور بالفخر للانتماء إلى الجامعة لدى طلبة جامعة
القدس المفتوحة في فرع طولكرم. واعتمدت الد ا رسة المنهج الوصفي الارتباطي التحليلي
وطبقت ثلاثة مقاييس لقياس متغي ا رت الد ا رسة على عينة مكونة من) 334 (طالبًا
وطالبة من طلبة جامعة القدس المفتوحة فرع طولكرم. أظهرت النتائج أن تقدي ا رت أف ا
رد الد ا رسة لاستجاباتهم على مقياسي الشخصية الحدية والجهد العاطفي كانت بمستوى
مرتفع، بينما كانت هذه التقدي ا رت بمستوى متوسط على مقياس الشعور بالفخر للانتماء
للجامعة. كما بينت النتائج وجود علاقة ارتباطية متبادلة دالة إحصائياً سالبة بين
الشخصية الحدية والجهد العاطفي والشعور بالفخر للانتماء للجامعة. وبينت النتائج
أيضاً عدم وجود فروق جوهرية بين متوسطات استجابات أف ا رد الد ا رسة على الشخصية
الحدية والجهد العاطفي والشعور بالفخر للانتماء للجامعة تبعًا إلى متغيّر الجنس،
كما أظهرت النتائج عدم وجود فروق جوهرية بين هذه المتوسطات على الشخصية الحدية
والشعور بالفخر للانتماء للجامعة تبعّا إلى المتغيرين: التخصص والتحصيل الأكاديمي،
بينما كانت هذه الفروق دالة إحصائيًا على الجهد العاطفي المبذول تبعًا لمتغيري
التخصص والتحصيل الأكاديمي لصالح طلبة كلية العلوم التربوية والطلبة من فئة التحصيل
المرتفع.
Verità clandestine. L’ «Unheimliche» secondo Freud e Zambrano
Authors: Prezzo Rosella
Published: July 2021

L’esperienza dello spaesamento e il concetto di Unheimliche, elaborato da Freud nel suo famoso saggio del 1919, vengono messi qui a confronto con l’esperienza dell’esilio, luogo letterale dello spaesamento, all’origine di una lunga e articolata rifessione di Zambrano. L’attraversamento del perturbante e dello spaesante nei due autori mostra alcune analogie e corrispondenze, ma con esiti decisamente diversi.
María Zambrano en el corazón paradójico del testimonio. La autobiografía como problema
Authors: Berrocal Alfonso
Published: July 2021

Este artículo examina una serie de textos de María Zambrano sobre la guerra civil y el exilio y se aproxima a obras como La confesión, género literario o Delirio y destino. A través de ellos se pretende poner de manifiesto la postura distante de la autora respecto al género autobiográfico. Un género que aparece como problemático desde el punto de vista filosófico y político, a pesarde la fuerte vocación testimonial de Zambrano.
«Let the memories begin». El álbum familiar de fotos y la autobiografía española contemporánea
Authors: Fernández Romero Ricardo
Published: July 2021

El presente artículo explora las interacciones entre fotografía y escritura del yo en la autobiografía española contemporánea. A través del análisis de textos autobiográficos de Carmen Martín Gaitey Paloma Díaz-Mas se pone de manifiesto la presencia del álbum de fotos familiar como un elemento estructural al mismo tiempo que como herramienta esencial para un diálogo entre texto e imagen. Losresultados no solo trascienden los límites tradicionales de la escritura autobiográfica en España, sino quedan lugar a textos híbridos experimentaleso «imagetext», segúnel concepto creado por W. J. T.Mitchell
Érase una vez «un reino de literatura...»
Authors: Peretti Cristina de
Published: July 2021

En este artículo se analiza, a partir de distintos textos de Javier Marías, la historia del reino de Redonda: un «reino junto al mar» a la vez real y ficticio con más de una lengua pero sin súbditos, una dinastía literaria que no se transmite por la sangre y cuyo rey sin soberanía no es otro, actualmente, que el propio Marías.
Escribo, una maleta, «ergo sum»
Authors: Santiago Bolaños Marifé
Published: July 2021

Mediante un acercamiento raciopoético a Delirio y destino, de María Zambrano, analizaremos la construcción de la identidad humana cuando la historia anula referentes espacio-temporales y, en un sentido vital, desaparece el territorio de lo común. La autora-personaje será el plano metodológico que nos traslade a nuestra incierta contemporaneidad globalizada, donde la coexistencia de identidades múltiples y difusas exige volver a pensar el concepto de consenso.
El sueño de la libertad. Novela y tragedia en «El sueño creador», de María Zambrano
Authors: Castilla Cerezo Antonio
Published: July 2021

En este artículo propongo una lectura de El sueño creador que partede una tesis de Max Scheler (el serhumano como «animal ascético»),desarrollándola por recurso a una paradoja relacionada con una afirmación fundamental de Helmuth Plessner (el ser humano como «animal excéntrico»). A esta se añaden ciertas observaciones que me han llevado a aludir a unos pocos novelistas (de Cervantes a Beckett) y personajes trágicos (Edipo, Antígona), así como a la aportación de ciertos filósofos españoles (Ortega y Trías, en particular).
La novela como razón pedagógica en María Zambrano
Authors: Pérez Mejuto Elena
Published: July 2021

El carácter interdisciplinario de este artículo, entre filosofía, literatura y pedagogía, propone un acercamiento a la lectura en clave pedagógica de la filosofía de María Zambrano, en la que la novela se reitera como fuente de conocimiento que va a la par con la vida. Un conocimiento olvidado en un ámbito educativo que, aún hoy, después de más de cien años de pedagogías activas, sigue vinculando el saber con la especialización técnica y aquellos conocimientos que acompañan el ritmo del mercado.
Structure of low-frequency fields generated by the ponderomotive force arising at the interaction of an ultrashort focused laser pulse with the conductor
Authors: Danilov E. A. , Uryupin S. A.
Published: July 2021

The spatial structure of the Fourier image of a quasi-cylindrical wave field excited at the effect of a femtosecond laser pulse focused into a strip on the conductor has been studied. In all areas above the conductor surface, except for the near zone, analytical dependencies of the Fourier image of the field on the coordinates and physical characteristics of the conductor and laser pulse are established. The areas in which the quasi-cylindrical wave field dominates the surface wave field are found. For a typical metal, a comparison of quasi-cylindrical and surface wave magnetic field shapes generated on the conductor surface is performed.