bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levels of selected pesticides and trophic transfer of DDTs through the aquatic food web in the Lake Ziway ecosystem
Authors: Mergia Mekuria Teshome , Weldemariam Ermias , Eklo Ole , Yimer Girma
Published: March 2021

The levels of 27 selected pesticides and trophic biomagnification of DDT were investigated in biota samples of the Lake Ziway in the Rift valley region, Ethiopia. Pesticide residues were analyzed using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC MS). Carbon source and trophic position were calculated by using 13C and 15N stable isotopes, individually, and trophic magnification factors (TMFs) were inferred. Among pesticides analyzed, only DDT and its metabolites (o,pʹ-DDD, o,pʹ-DDE, p,pʹ-DDD, and p,pʹ-DDE) were quantified in biota samples. The most prominent metabolite was p,pʹ-DDE with mean concentration ranging from the 0.22-7.7ngg− 1 wet weight. Moreover, the ratio of DDT/DDD + DDE in all the biota samples was less than 1 signifying historical DDT application. The trophic magnification factor (TMF) for p,pʹ-DDE, and ΣDDT were 1.18 and 1.19 respectively. Regression of log [ΣDDT] vs TL (trophic level) among all biota species showed a significant correlation, indicating that DDTs are biomagnifying along with the food web of Lake Ziway. The concentrations of DDTs and other organochlorine pesticides found in biota from Lake Ziway were, in general, lower than studies found in previous studies carried out in the same lake.
In-situ Deposition of Ag Nanoparticles on Dopamine Pre-Modified Cotton Fabric and Analysis of Its Functional Mechanical and Dyeing Properties
Authors: Tania Imana , Ali Mohammad , Azam Md. Shafiul
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the potentiality of Ag nanoparticles for the preparation of value-added and improved functional textiles. It demonstrates the in-situ deposition of Ag nanoparticles on cotton fabric pre-functionalized by dopamine hydrochloride. Surface characterization of nano-Ag deposited fabric is done by SEM (scanning electron microscope) and EDS (energy dispersive spectroscopy) that confirms the shape and deposition of a higher amount of nano-Ag particles. The crystalline size and approximate shape are determined by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. The results reveal that the nano-Ag deposition brings excellent performance on functional properties of cotton fabric. Antimicrobial activity is found as 82.60% reduction against S.aureus and 92% against E.coli measured by bacterial reduction rate (R%). The fabric also shows good UV protection power and admirable crease resistance. The fabric has also been dyed with reactive dyestuff and enhanced dyeing performance is found due to nano-Ag deposition. However, nano deposition causes a slight change in some important mechanical properties.
Primary treatment and Recent survival trends in patients with Primary Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma of Central Nervous System,1995-2016: a population-based SEER analysis
Authors: Chen Cui , Sun Peng , Sun Xiaoqing , Chen Shaoyong , Yang Hang , Wang Yu , Li Zhiming
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate primary treatment and recent survival trends in patients with primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of CNS from 1995 to 2016.
Methods

Using the SEER data, patients diagnosed with non-HIV associated PCNSL-DLBCL aged ⩾18 years between 1995 and 2016 were identified. The year of diagnosis was divided into the time periods-1(1995–2002), the time periods-2(2003–2012) and the time periods-3(2013–2016). We used Chi-square tests, the Kaplan–Meier method, log-rank test and Cox regression model in the analysis.
Results

Overall, 3760 patients were included. Both the use of radiotherapy alone and the application of combined chemoradiotherapy decreased significantly, following the wider use of chemotherapy alone during 1995–2016. There was a significant improvement in PCNSL cancer-specific survival (period-1: 13 months vs period-2: 19 months vs period-3: 41 months, P < 0.001). Survival of patients aged above 70 years did not change from the time period-1 to the time period-2 (P = 0.101). However, there was an increase in CSS from the time period-2 to the time period-3 in the elderly patients (period-2: 5 months vs period-3: 9 months, P < 0.001). On multivariable analyses, diagnosed in the time period-3 was significantly and independently associated with better CSS (HR 0.577, 95% CI 0.506–0.659).
Conclusions

Our analysis shows the use of radiotherapy in the treatment of PCNSL has waned over the study span. There was a significant improvement in CSS during 1995–2016, which reflected developments in treatment over time. The elderly patient population also gained a significant CSS benefit in the most recent period.
Tissue-based metabolomics profiling reveals metabolic signatures and major metabolic pathways of gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Yaqin , Chen Wenchao , Li Kun , Wu Gang , Zhang Wei , Ma Peizhi
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study was aimed to screen differential metabolites between gastric cancer (GC) and paracancerous (PC) tissues and find new biomarkers of GC.
Methods

GC (n = 28) and matched PC (n = 28) tissues were collected and LC-MS/MS analyses were performed to detect metabolites of GC and PC tissues in positive and negative models. Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projections to latent structures-discriminate analysis (OPLS-DA) were conducted to describe distribution of origin data and general separation and estimate the robustness and the predictive ability of our mode. Differential metabolites were screened based on criterion of variables with p value < 0.05 and VIP (variable importance in the projection) > 1.0. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic power of differential metabolites. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) was performed to search for metabolite pathways and MetaboAnalyst was used for pathway enrichment analysis.
Results

Several metabolites were significantly changed in GC group compared with PC group. Thirteen metabolites with high VIP were chose and among which 1-methylnicotinamide, dodecanoic acid and sphinganine possessed high AUC values (AUC > 0.8) indicating an excellent discriminatory ability on GC. Pathways such as pentose phosphate pathway and histidine metabolism were focused based on differential metabolites demonstrating their effects on progress of GC.
Conclusions

In conclusion, we investigated the tissue-based metabolomics profile of GC and several differential metabolites and signaling pathways were focused. Further study is needed to verify those results.
WITHDRAWN: A facile synthesis of MgFe2O4/ZnS heterojunction with effectively enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity for degradation of methylene blue and crystal violet dyes
Authors: S Rajkumar , S Seetharaman , V Vijayan , M Sivaraj , M Chandran , R Saravanan
Published: March 2021

A novel n-MgFe2O4–n-ZnS heterojunction catalyst was employed via two step approach for photodegradation of organic dyes such as methylene blue (MB) and crystal violet (CV) dyes under visible light irradiation. The synthesized MgFe2O4/ZnS NCs were characterized using PXRD, FTIR, UV-visible spectroscopy, PL and FESEM analysis which reveals the formation of flake like structure with size as to be ~50 nm. The photocatalytic experimental result demonstrates that the MgFe2O4/ZnS nanocomposites (NCs) improve photodegradation performance with 98.0% and 91% decomposition of MB and CV dyes within 120 min illumination during simulated visible light irradiation. From the result, MgFe2O4/ZnS NCs has higher photocatalytic performance than that of MgFe2O4, and ZnS due to efficient separation of the photo-induced electron-hole pairs and effective electron–hole generation transfer by the formation of n-MgFe2O4–n-ZnS heterojunction. Hence, photodegradation performance implies that the synthesized MgFe2O4/ZnS NCs can be effectively utilized in waste water purification systems.
Tribology of High-performance PEEK-, PI-, and ATSP-based Self-lubricating Polymers Up to 300 oC
Authors: Bashandeh Kian , Lan Pixiang , Polycarpou Andreas A.
Published: March 2021

High-performance polymers (HPPs) with self-lubricating properties are promising materials for bearing and tribological components that demand low friction and low wear in the absence of liquid lubrication. This study reports on the tribological performance of three advanced HPPs, namely ATSP-, PEEK-, and PI-based polymer composites. The experiments were performed using pin-on-disk configuration under dry sliding conditions and different environmental temperatures from 25 (room temperature) to 300 °C. The role of temperature on the formation of polymer transfer films on the steel counterpart was investigated using microscopy and profilometric measurements, and correlations were made to their tribological performance. From the three tested composites, ATSP-based composite exhibited the best overall performance with low friction and low wear.
Clinical Significance of Intravesical Prostatic Protrusion Index in Patients with Clinical Diagnosis of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.
Authors: Yahyazadeh Seyed Reza , Izadi Seyed Shahaboddin
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To investigate the clinical significance of the intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP) index in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients to clarify its diagnostic value in predicting the clinical and structural abnormalities of the prostate. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study, we include every man older than 50 years old with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), predominantly voiding or obstructive, suggestive of BPH. The patients were evaluated to determine the following indices: IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) Index, QoL (quality of life), prostate volume (PV) and postvoid residual urine (PVR), serum PSA level, and the maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) obtained by uroflowmetry. Subsequently, the assessment of the IPP index was undertaken by transabdominal ultrasonography. The categorization of the IPP index was done into 3 grades: grade one (below 5 mm), grade two (between 5 and 10 mm), and grade three (greater than 10 mm). Results: The significant direct correlation between the intravesical prostatic protrusion and international prostate symptom score, quality of life, prostate volume, postvoid residual urine, and serum PSA as well as inversely with the maximum urinary flow rate was confirmed both before and after the medical treatment. Also, the need for surgical intervention increased significantly with increasing IPP levels. Conclusion: The intravesical prostatic protrusion can be used to evaluate and predict the severity of symptoms and outcomes in patients with clinical BPH.
Expression Patterns of Microenvironmental Factors and Tenascin-C at the Invasive Front of Stage II And III Colorectal Cancer: Novel Tumor Prognostic Markers
Authors: Hashimoto Mai , Uesugi Noriyuki , Osaka Mitsumasa , Yanagawa Naoki , Otsuka Koki , Kajiwara Yoshiki , Ueno Hedeki , Sasaki Akira , Sugai Tamotsu
Published: March 2021

Background. Biological markers expressed in cancer cells and the surrounding cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) can be used for prediction of patient prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we used immunohistochemical techniques to evaluate cancer cells’ expression of specific biomarkers that are closely associated with neoplastic progression. Patients and Methods. Immunohistochemical markers included Ki-67, p53, β-catenin, MMP7, E-cadherin and HIF1-α. We also characterized microenvironmental markers expressed by CAF, including expression of α-smooth muscle actin, CD10, podoplanin, fibroblast specific protein 1, platelet derived growth factor β, fibroblast association protein, tenascin-C (TNC), ZEB1 and TWIST1. The study population consisted of 286 CRC patients with stage II and III disease. Stage II and III CRC were divided into a first and a second cohort (for validation). The CRCs were stratified using cluster analysis. To identify the utility of prognostic markers in stage II and III CRC, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed in both cohorts. Results. Stage II and III CRCs were stratified into 3 subgroups. Specific subgroups were significantly correlated to disease-free survival using univariate and multivariate analyses in the first cohort. High expression of TNC was identified as a single prognostic marker in both cohorts by univariate and multivariate analyses. Conclusions. We suggest that the presence of a specific subgroup defined by multiple markers can be used for prediction of CRC outcome in stages II and III. In addition, we showed that high expression of TNC was correlated with a poorer prognosis in stages II and III of CRC.
Obstructive Pneumonia With Bronchial Foreign Body: A Case Report
Authors: Tanaka Hitomi , Anno Takatoshi , Takenouchi Haruka , Kaneto Hideaki , Oga Toru , Okimoto Niro , Tomoda Koichi
Published: March 2021

Background: Bronchial foreign bodies are relatively uncommon in adults. There are a variety of symptoms induced by airway foreign bodies, although the typical symptoms of some bronchial foreign bodies are cough, wheezing, chest pain, hemoptysis and fever up. Case presentation: An 80-year-old Japanese man was referred to our hospital with symptom of 7-month history of cough and pneumonia. His chest radiograph showed a slight increase in opacity. His vital signs and his laboratory data were almost normal. Chest computed tomography revealed obstructive pneumonia and a bronchial foreign body. We performed bronchoscopy and detected a fish bone as an intrabronchial foreign body and finally removed it from the bronchi.Conclusions:It is very important to carefully perform medical consultation about the current and past medical history. People in some countries and regions such as Japan have a habit of eating fish. It is necessary to more carefully consider the possibility of some bronchial foreign body such as a fish bone, when we observe symptoms of persistent cough.
Post-Anesthesia Hookwire Localization of Pulmonary Ground Glass Nodules Guided by Computed-Tomography Three-Dimensional Reconstruction: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Wang Chong , Liu Yang , Xiao Bo , Liu Shuku
Published: March 2021

Background: Computed-tomography(CT) guided hookwire localization has disadvantages, such as pain, patient transport risk and increased radiation exposure. In order to overcome the above shortcomings, our method is post-anesthesia hookwire localization guided by preoperative CT three-dimensional reconstruction. The effectiveness and safety of this method will be studied.Methods: A total of 36 patients(36 nodules) with ground glass nodules were consecutively included in this study. Three dimensional reconstruction of chest CT was performed to simulate the puncture path. The puncture point, the depth and angle of needle insertion were recorded. After anesthesia, the puncture point was marked on the patient's body surface. Hookwire was placed according to the previous planned puncture direction and depth. The effectiveness and complications of the localization were evaluated during the operation.Results: Hookwire dislocation was found in 1 patient in operation. The other 35 nodules were successfully positioned. The median distance between hookwire and lesion was 14mm(3-25mm). The effective rate was 97.2%(35/36). Only one patient found a small amount of blood in the chest. There was no pulmonary hematoma, blood pressure or oxygen decreasing in all patients. The complication rate was 2.8% (1/36) and the severe complication was 0. The median time for localization was 3 minutes. Conclusion: Post-anesthesia hookwire localization guided by preoperative three-dimensional reconstruction is a simple, safe and effective localization method, which is suitable for appropriate nodules, and is an important supplement to CT guided localization.Trial registration: ChiCTR1900023853. Registered in Chinese Clinical Trail Registry on 14 June 2019, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=40060
Intratumoral Gene Expression of Dihydrofolate Reductase and Folylpoly-C-Glutamate Synthetase Affects the Sensitivity to 5-Fluorouracil in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Sakon Kayo , Sasaki Masato , Tanaka Kaede , Mizunaga Tae , Yano Keita , Kawamura Yuiko , Okada Akitoshi , Ikeda Takeshi , Tanabe Sawaka , Takamori Atsushi , Yamada Narihisa , Morioka Kouichi , Koshiji Takaaki
Published: March 2021

Background: Various factors related to the sensitivity of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) have been reported, and some of them have been clinically applied. In this single-institutional prospective analysis, the mRNA expression level of five folic acid-associated enzymes was evaluated in surgical specimens of NSCLC. We investigated the correlation between the antitumor effect of 5-FU in NSCLC using an anticancer drug sensitivity test and the gene expression levels of five enzymes.Materials and Methods: Forty patients who underwent surgery for NSCLC were enrolled, and the antitumor effect was measured using an in vitro anticancer drug sensitivity test (histoculture drug response assay) using freshly resected specimens. In the same sample, the mRNA expression levels of five enzymes involved in the sensitivity to 5-FU were measured in the tumor using real-time PCR. The expression levels and the result of the sensitivity test were compared.Results: No correlation was found between dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), orotate phosphoribosyltransferase (OPRT), or DPD/OPRT expression and the antitumor effects of 5-FU. On the other hand, a correlation was found between thymidylate synthase (TS), folylpoly-c-glutamate synthetase (FPGS), and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) expression and 5-FU sensitivity.Conclusion: Expression of FPGS and DHFR may be useful for predicting the efficacy of 5-FU-based chemotherapy for NSCLC.
Systems Nutrology of persons with tuberculosis identifies specific dietary profiles associated with dysglycemia
Authors: Arriaga María B. , Araújo-Pereira Mariana , Andrade Vanessa M. B. , Fernandes Catarina D. , Sales Caio , Aliaga Juan , Shivakoti Rupak , Lecca Leonid , Calderon Roger I. , Andrade Bruno B.
Published: March 2021

Dietary pattern (DP) may be associated with overall nutritional status that can alter the risk of tuberculosis (TB) disease. This complex interaction can be further intricated by additional metabolic comorbidities such as dysglycemia (diabetes or prediabetes). This study aimed at identifying DP associated with dysglycemia in TB patients. A prospective cohort study of TB patients and their household contacts was conducted between February and November 2017 in Lima, Peru. Among the 269 patients, 85 were considered healthy, 48 had dysglycemia, 75 had TB and 61 had TB-dysglycemia. Food intake was collected using a food frequency questionnaire and a Systems Nutrology analytical approach was employed to identify DP associated with these groups. Potential associations between clinical factors and DP were also analyzed. Three dietary patterns were identified based on the food intake profile of the study participants. Normoglycemic TB patients more often had the DP1, while healthy individuals more frequently presented with the DP2 and persons with TB-dysglycemia were more represented in the DP3. TB-dysglycemia was mainly associated with the increased intakes of rice and cereals, fast food and oils. The identification of distinct dietary patterns involved with TB and dysglycemia may help to guide nutritional interventions to optimize patient care.
Information-theoretic analysis of complex systems modeled by two dimensional pairwise Ising models
Authors: Levada Alexandre
Published: March 2021

Stochastic complex systems are composed by a large number of seemingly simple variables that exhibit non-linear interactions with each other, causing the emergence of complexity and non-deterministic dynamics in the edge between order and chaos. Hence, the evolution of these systems seems to be completely out of control, with unpredictable behaviors. In this paper, using information geometry as a mathematical approach to chaos and complexity, we investigate how information theory can be used to analyze the dynamics of pairwise Ising random fields along Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulations in which phase transitions are observed. Our experiments indicate that Fisher information regarding the inverse temperature parameter can bring important insights, since it signalizes changes in the global spatial dependence structure. Information-theoretic curves are built to show that, despite the random nature of the system, it is possible to identify an asymmetric pattern of evolution when the system moves towards different entropic states.
Early Alcohol Withdrawal Reverses the Abnormal Levels of proBDNF/mBDNF and their Receptors
Authors: Zhou Li , Xiong Jing , Gao Chang-qing , Bao Jian-jun , Zhou Xin-Fu
Published: March 2021

ObjectiveProlonged excessive ethanol intake impairs learning, memory and also causes brain atrophy. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays pivotal roles in the pathology of alcohol dependence. Our previous work found that chronic ethanol exposure altered the metabolism of BDNF, leading to the imbalance of proBDNF and mature BDNF (mBDNF). In this study, we hypothesized that early alcohol withdrawal would reverse the abnormal levels of proBDNF, mBDNF and their receptors.Method30 male alcohol dependence patients were recruited. Peripheral blood was sampled from all the subjects before and one week after alcohol withdrawal. The lymphocyte protein levels of proBDNF, p75NTR, sortilin and TrkB were analyzed by western blots and the serum level of mBDNF and TrkB was assayed by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at two different time points. ResultsThe levels of mBDNF and its receptor (TrkB) increased, oppositely the levels of proBDNF and its receptors (p75NTR and sortilin) decreased one week after alcohol withdrawal. ConclusionsEarly alcohol withdrawal reversed the abnormal levels of proBDNF, mBDNF and their receptors. The shift levels of proBDNF and mBDNF were both taken in the pathology of alcohol withdrawal.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is not a cancer risk factor for BRCA1/2 carriers: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of case-control studies
Authors: Mirisola Mario Giuseppe , Galvano Antonio , Gristina Valerio , Mantia Maria La , Cutaia Sofia , Calò Valentina , Barraco Nadia , Bono Marco , Castiglia Marta , Perez Alessandro , Cusenza Stefania , Insalaco Lavinia , Castellana Luisa , Fulfaro Fabio , Russo Antonio , Bazan Viviana
Published: March 2021

Background

Breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 and 2 (BRCA 1/2) pathogenic germline variants (gPV) are involved in an increased cumulative risk for cancers (above all breast and ovarian cancers). Overweight/obesity is a well-known systemic condition conferring higher cancer risk too.
Methods

We performed a systematic review collecting data on Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane-Library database until August 2020. We included four case-control studies (Fu et al, Bissonauth et al, Khachatryan et al, Nkondjoc et al) assessing the risk for cancer according to different BMI strata in BRCA-positive healthy individuals.
Results

Four studies for a total of 1148 patients evaluated breast and ovarian cancer risk in a healthy BRCA1/2 population. No other tumor histotypes risk has been observed within the selected population. Pooled results demonstrated that different BMI conditions (lower or upper 25 kg/m2) were not associated with increased cancer risk (OR 1.15, 95% CI 0.92–1.44 and OR 1.48, 95% CI 0.84–2.62 respectively). Additionally, no differences were reported according to menopausal status.
Conclusion

Despite the need for other prospective investigations in larger cohorts, our results suggest no BMI contribution in cancer risk in this special population, determining a new important point of view and a new potential field of investigation.
Feasibility of electronic patient-reported outcome monitoring with self-management advice and warning system in aplastic anemia and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria – a pilot study (ePRO-AA-PNH)
Authors: Baenziger Silas , Weisshaar Kimmo , Arokoski Reetta , Gerull Sabine , Halter Jörg , Rovó Alicia , Bargetzi Mario , Goede Jeroen S. , Senft Yuliya , Valenta Sabine , Passweg Jakob R. , Drexler Beatrice
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) systems have demonstrated to improve patient outcome in cancer, but have not yet been evaluated in patients with aplastic anemia (AA) and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of an ePRO monitoring, self-management advice and warning system customized for AA and PNH patients.Methods: After adapting an ePRO system to the needs of AA and PNH patients (ePRO-AA-PNH), the application was tested by patients and their medical team for 6 months. Based on a predefined algorithm symptom reporting triggered self-management advice and prompts to contact clinicians in case of severe symptoms. Meanwhile the medical team could monitor ePROs in real-time and receive alerts of severe symptoms electronically. Results: Nine patients completed the study, showing a high adherence rate to the weekly symptom-reporting (72%), which decreased from 91 % to 53 % over the study period. Satisfaction was high: ePRO-AA-PNH was found easy to use, to understand and to integrate into daily life. Most patients (78%) would continue and all would recommend the application to other AA/PNH patients. Technical performance was rarely a barrier and healthcare providers saw ePRO-AA-PNH as a useful supplement, but missed the integration to clinical workflows and the hospital electronic health records (EHR). Conclusion: An ePRO system customized for AA and PNH was feasible to patients and their medical team in terms of adherence, satisfaction and performance, showing a high potential for these rare and chronic conditions. However, the integration into clinical workflows and hospital EHR is crucial for routine use.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04128943, October 16 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04128943
Nomogram for chemotherapy decision-making in patients with small triple-negative breast tumor: A population-based study
Authors: Chen Xin-Yu , Shao Yi-Lin , Liu Xing , Zhang Jian , Zhi Wen-Xiang , Hu Xi-Chun , Tao Zhong-Hua
Published: March 2021

Background: Small triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) without lymph node invasion is considered less aggressive. This study aimed to develop nomograms for deciding on the appropriateness of chemotherapy for these patients.Methods: The data of patients diagnosed with T1abN0M0 TNBC between 2010 and 2016 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Clinicodemographic characteristics were integrated into nomograms for predicting overall survival (OS) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS). Nomogram performance was analyzed according to calibration and discrimination. The subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot (STEPP) was further applied to make individualized chemotherapeutic decisions.Results: Overall, 3133 patients with T1abN0M0 TNBC were evaluated; they were divided equally into the training and validation cohorts. Most tumors were grade III (62.6%) and ductal carcinoma of no special type (88.8%). The median follow-up time was 44.0 months, and 133 patients (4.3%) died by the end of the follow-up. Eight independent prognostic factors, namely, age, race, marital status, tumor size, histology, grade, surgery, and chemotherapy, were identified and used in nomogram construction. The calibration curves showed satisfactory agreement between prediction and observation. The C-indices of the nomograms were significantly higher than those of traditional TNM staging (0.701 vs 0.503 for OS; 0.691 vs 0.506 for BCSS). The patients in the training cohort were stratified into two risk groups based on the OS nomogram score cutoff (213), and the groups showed a significant difference in survival, as was further confirmed in the validation cohort. The STEPPs of 5-year OS according to the nomogram score demonstrated distinct patterns of absolute chemotherapeutic effect, with low-risk patients achieving better survival regardless of chemotherapy. In high-risk patients, a significant and consistent chemotherapeutic benefit was observed at the average of 3.7% (range, 2.0%-4.9%). Conclusion: At a cutoff score of ≥ 213, the nomogram accurately identified TNBC patients likely to receive a survival benefit from chemotherapy.
Hidden Blood Loss and Its Influencing Factors Post Cement Augmentation of Vertebral Metastasis
Authors: Zhang Shuguang , Zhao Zhenguo , Xu Libin , Xu songfeng , Zhang Xinxin , Liu Ting , Yu Shengji
Published: March 2021

IntroductionCement augmentation is an effective approach and can provide a temporary local control and pain relief for pathologic vertebral compression fractures (PVCFs). However, few reasearch focused on the risk factors of HBL post cement augmentation surgery in PVCFs. Hence, this retrospective research was founded to calculate the HBL amount during perioperative period, given a measured visible blood loss.MethodFrom January 2014 to December 2020, a total of 169 PVCFs patients with 283 levels who underwent cement augmentation were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical information was extracted from medical records, including sex, age, BMI, hypertension, diabetes, duration of pain, bone metastases type, vertebral location, bone lesion quality, number of PVCF(s), VAS, Tomita, Tokuhashi, preoperative radiotherapy, surgery type, surgical duration, the amount of bone cement, bone cement leakage, postoperative pathology, percentage of VHL, percentage of VHR. HBL was calculated according a linear formula of Gross using the patient’s average Hct during the perioperative course and PBV. Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the independent factors associated with HBL.ResultsThe mean HBL was 448.2 ± 267.2 ml, with a percentage of 10.8% ± 6.2% in PBV. The mean preoperative Hct and Hb were 38.1 ± 5.4 and 127.6 ± 19.1g/l. The mean postoperative Hct and Hb were 34.2 ± 4.9 and 114.8 ± 17.6g/l. There were significant differences between pre- and postoperative Hct (P<0.001) and Hb (P<0.001), and 132 patients developed anemia postoperative compared with 79 patients suffered from preoperative anemia (P < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression showed that bone lesion quality (p=0.028), number of PVCF(s) (p=0.002), the amount of bone cement (p=0.027), bone cement leakage (p=0.001), percentage of VHL (p=0.011) were independent risk factors for HBL. ConclusionIn conclusion, the present study indicates that the HBL in patients with PVCFs is much greater than generally considered in OVCFs. Orthopedic surgeons should be on guard against those patients with lytic vertebral destruction, the greater amount of bone cement, bone cement leakage, more numbers of PVCF(s), higher percentage of VHL.
Rigid-compliant hybrid variation analysis using Monte Carlo interval approach for low-rigidity aircraft structure assembly
Authors: Mei Biao , Wang Haijin
Published: March 2021

To reduce downstream rework and design changes, variation modeling and analysis are indispensable in the assembly of complex products. In this paper, a rigid-compliant hybrid variation analysis method using the Monte Carlo interval approach is developed to assembly ladder structures, such as the skeleton of a horizontal stabilizer or a wing box. We first present the classical locating scheme of a low-rigidity aeronautical structure, and the contributors to the assembly variation of a ladder structure comprising locating errors and part geometric errors. Assembly variations induced by rigid-body locating errors and part geometric errors are mathematically modeled with rigid-body kinematics and the mechanistic method based on the Finite Element Analysis, respectively. And then, the two types of assembly variations are integrated into a rigid-compliant hybrid variation model. Probability distributions of the contributors are often unknown, especially in aircraft manufacturing with low production volume. Therefore, a novel variation analysis method using the Monte Carlo interval approach is proposed to compute the assembly variation, represented in the form of interval structural parameters. The assembly case of a scale wing skeleton shows the proposed rigid-compliant hybrid variation analysis method is efficient in the assembly variation analysis for low-rigidity aircraft structure.
Production of cellulase by Mucor ramanniacus using submerged fermentation and its applications in biodegradation of agro-industrial waste
Authors: Ibukunoluwa Taiwo Dorcas , Nelson Ademakinwa Adedeji , Ayinla Zainab Adenike , Agboola Femi Kayode
Published: March 2021

This study was undertaken to isolate and identify a novel cellulase-producing strain from a waste site (7°28’11’’N 4°31’24’’E), optimise the growth conditions, partially purify and biochemically characterise the enzyme. The potentials of the purified cellulase to hydrolyse the lignocellulosic component of some agro-industrial wastes (e.g. orange peels etc.) was also investigated. The best cellulase-producing fungus was identified as Mucor ramanniacus and the optimum conditions for cellulase production were pH (4.5), inoculum size (12 mm), carbon and nitrogen sources were carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium nitrate respectively resulting in a specific activity of 1423 Units/mg protein. A purification fold of 1.56 and 45.37 % yield were obtained after purification. The optimum pH and temperature were at 9.0 and 40°C respectively. The kinetic parameters were 0.63 ± 0.495 mg/ml, 20.21 ± 11.28 U/ml, 1001.4s− 1 for Km and Vmax and kcat respectively. Na+, K+, Ca+, Cysteine, β-mercaptoethanol and SDS were activators while Tween 80, Triton X-100 EDTA, Hg2+ and Ba2+ inhibited the enzyme. M. ramanniacus cellulase hydrolysed all agro-industrial wastes used. The partially purified M. ramanniacus cellulase showed great potential in biodegradation of various lignocellulosic substrates and the biochemical characteristics exhibited makes it suitable in industrial applications.
A Poisson XLindley Distribution with Applications
Authors: Seghier Fatma Zohra , Zeghdoudi Halim
Published: March 2021

In this paper, a Poisson XLindley distribution (PXLD) has been obtained by compounding Poisson (PD) distribution with a continuous distribution. A general expression for its rth factorial moment about origin has been derived and hence its raw moments and central moments are obtained. The expressions for its coefficient of variation, skewness, kurtosis and index of dispersion have also been given. In particular, the method of maximum likelihood and the method of moments for the estimation of its parameters have been discussed. Finally, two real-life data sets are analyzed to investigate the suitability of the proposed distribution in modeling a real data set on Nipah virus infection, number of Hemocytometer yeast cell count data and epileptic seizure counts data.
Role of Self-esteem and Social Support on Emotional Behavioral Problems Among Adolescents
Authors: Sahar Namood-e , Saman Maira , Sarwat Yusra , Zaman Kiran
Published: March 2021

The present study aimed to find out the role of self-esteem and social support on emotional behavioral problems among the adolescents. The sample consisted of adolescents (N=300) comprising of 150 boys and 150 girls selected through purposive and convenience sampling techniques from different schools of Islamabad. All the research instruments demonstrate significant internal consistency (r > 70). Self-esteem and social support were found to have a significant negative correlation with emotional behavioral problems (EBP) such as increased self-esteem and social support could significantly decrease EBP among adolescents as hypothesized. Regression analysis also supported the association and demonstrated that study variables account for about 23% of variance in EBP. Findings of the study can be applied for introduction of programs to increase the self-esteem and improve the social support in order to minimize the emotional behavioral problems among the adolescents.
Unconventional reconciliation path for quantum mechanics and general relativity
Authors: Yuguru Samuel
Published: March 2021

Physics in general is successfully governed by quantum mechanics at the microscale and principles of relativity at the macroscale. Any attempts to unify them using conventional methods have somewhat remained elusive for nearly a century up to the present stage. Here in this study, a classical gedanken experiment of electron-wave diffraction of a single slit is intuitively examined for its quantized states. A unidirectional monopole field as quanta of the electric field is pictorially conceptualized. Its application towards quantum mechanics and general relativity in accordance with existing knowledge in physics paves an alternative path towards their reconciliation process by assuming a multiverse at a hierarchy of scales. Such an outcome provides an approximate intuitive guide to examine physics in general from alternative perspectives using conventional methods.
Are Routine Postoperative Laboratory Tests Really Necessary after High Tibial Osteotomy surgery?
Authors: Si Nie , Hong-bo Li , Min Lan , Xin-gen Liao , Zhi-ming Tang
Published: March 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the necessity and cost-effectiveness of routine postoperative laboratory tests for patients undergoing high tibial osteotomy (HTO) surgery.Methods: A prospective study was conducted and 513 patients with symptomatic isolated medial compartment osteoarthritis received HTO surgery from January 2015 to May 2020 were included in this study. The associations between different clinical factors and postoperative clinical treatment were analyzed. Finally, A logistic regression analysis was performed to detect independent risk factors for patients requiring postoperative clinical treatment. Results: In this study, 482 patients had completed the full set of postoperative laboratory studies within 3 days after surgery were included in the present study. However, only a small proportion of the patients with anemia (3.9%), hypoalbuminemia (4.1%), and abnormal serum potassium levels (3.5%) required clinical intervention after surgery. Binary logistic regression model analysis showed that body mass index (BMI), preoperative hemoglobin level, estimated blood loss and operative time were the independent risk factors correlated with postoperative blood transfusion in patients with HTO surgery. Female gender and preoperative albumin level were independent risk factors for patients who had requiring albumin supplementation after HTO surgery. Finally, preoperative potassium was the independent risk factors for patients required potassium supplementation postoperatively.Conclusions: based on the analysis, we conclude that routinely ordering postoperative laboratory studies after HTO surgery are both unnecessary and cost inefficient. However, for patients with identified risk factors, routine postoperative laboratory tests are still needed.
Impactação de dentes permanentes associado a odontoma composto em paciente infantil: relato de caso
Authors: Fernandez Matheus dos Santos , Santos Laís Almeida , Barreto Rayza Gabrielle Santos , Oliveira Cristiane Costa da Cunha , Viana Vanessa dos Santos
Published: March 2021

Os odontomas são o tipo mais comum dos tumores odontogênicos benignos.  Clinicamente apresentam-se assintomáticos e de crescimento lento, sendo divididos de acordo com as características histomorfológicas em (a) odontomas compostos, contendo tecidos dentários normais e formados por múltiplas estruturas calcificadas, algumas assemelhando-se a mini-dentes; e (b) odontomas complexos, quando presentes como massas irregulares contendo diferentes tecidos dentários. Normalmente estão associados ao atraso no irrompimento dentário. Um menino de 8 anos compareceu a Clínica Odontológica Universitaria com dúvidas sobre o atraso na esfoliação dos dentes permanentes. Uma radiografia periapical evidenciou a presença de um odontoma composto na região dos incisivos superiores do lado esquerdo, constituindo um obstáculo à erupção permanente dos dentes. Sob anestesia local, o acesso ao tumor foi obtido via intra oral e sua enucleação cirúrgica foi realizada. A análise histopatológica confirmou o diagnóstico de odontoma composto. Uma revisão de literatura foi realizada para uma discussão mais profunda da temática.
Fechamento de fístula bucossinusal com gordura de Bichat: relato de caso
Authors: Freire Brenda Karoline Valença , Souza Henrique Lima Ferreira de , Souza Neto Heitor Ferreira de , Rodrigues Éwerton Daniel Rocha , Almeida Renata de Albuquerque Cavalcanti , Nogueira Emerson Filipe de Carvalho
Published: March 2021

Introdução: A gordura de Bichat consiste num tecido gorduroso amplamente utilizado para correção de complicações cirúrgicas e defeitos ósseos. Seu uso se dá pela rica vascularização sanguínea, menor morbidade ao sítio doador, rápida epitelização, altas taxas de sucesso, confiabilidade e por não causar sequelas estéticas visíveis. Objetivo: Relatar um caso clínico de um paciente que apresentou comunicação bucossinusal, em que foi utilizada a gordura de Bichat para o seu tratamento. Relato do caso: Paciente do sexo feminino, 56 anos de idade, apresentou queixa de dor em face e saída de líquidos em cavidade nasal. Ao exame tomográfico foi observada imagem sugestiva de perda óssea em soalho do seio maxilar com velamento local. O tratamento consistiu na fistulectomia, e reposicionamento da gordura de Bichat sobre o defeito ósseo, com posterior manutenção do retalho por sutura com fio de seda 4-0, sob anestesia local. A paciente foi acompanhada por 12 meses sem sinais de recidiva. Conclusão: A utilização da gordura de Bichat para o fechamento da comunicação bucossinusal é uma modalidade de tratamento simples, eficaz e confiável, apresentando grandes vantagens quando comparada à outras técnicas.
Sialolitíase em região sublingual direita: relato de caso
Authors: Silva Camila Barbosa da , Cabral Lioney Nobre , Pinheiro Tiago Novaes , Vasconcelos II Antonio Jorge Araújo de
Published: March 2021

Sialolitíases de pequenas proporções localizadas na porção terminal do ducto podem ser difíceis de serem eliminadas de forma passiva, causando problemas ao paciente como episódios de dor e desconforto, podendo evoluir para complicações como infecção ou retenção mucosa. O presente trabalho relata um caso de sialolitíase de uma paciente de 35 anos. Ao exame clínico constatou-se a presença de uma elevação nodular na região de carúncula sublingual, formato cilíndrico, indolor e móvel à palpação, endurecida, coloração amarelada, aumento de volume sensível no pescoço durante algumas refeições, e evolução de sete meses. Ao exame tomográfico, foi possível observar a presença de uma massa hiperdensa na região de assoalho bucal. Inicialmente foi realizado uma ordenha associada a colocação de cone de guta percha, mas não se obteve sucesso. O tratamento realizado foi a remoção cirúrgica do sialólito sem necessidade de síntese associado ao uso tópico de Mud Oral juntamente com a orientação da ordenha para estimulação do fluxo salivar. A hipótese diagnóstica para esta lesão foi de sialolitíase e a mesma foi confirmada através da análise histopatológica. A paciente, continuou em acompanhamento pós-operatório durante 3 semanas, durante este período, a mesma não desenvolveu nenhuma sintomatologia relevante, sendo dispensada após 21 dias. Portanto, diante das possibilidades clínicas e situação da paciente optou-se por métodos mais conservadores e menos invasivos associados a orientações de cuidados pós-operatórios para que se obtivesse uma rápida recuperação e um bom prognóstico.
Mononeuropathy of the maxillary nerve branches associated with COVID-19
Authors: Gaujac Cristiano , Takeshita Wilton Mitsunari , Gaujac Danielle Pereira , Pedron Irineu Gregnanin , Shinohara Elio Hitoshi
Published: March 2021

This clinical note describes a case report where the patient notices that one of the symptoms suffered during COVID-19 infection is a mononeuropathy of the branches of the maxillary nerve, reviewing in the literature the findings of the affinity of the coronavirus to nerve fibers.
Elasticity and high-pressure behavior of Mg2Cr2O5 and CaTi2O4-type phases of magnesiochromite and chromite
Authors: Shieh Sean R. , Khan Tauhid Belal , Mi Zhongying , van Zyl Mauritz , Rodriguez Ricardo D. , Prescher Clemens , Prakapenka Vitali B.
Published: March 2021

In situ high-pressure and high-temperature X-ray diffraction studies on magnesiochromite, MgCr2O4, and a natural chromite, (Mg,Fe)(Al,Cr)2O4, using a laser-heated diamond-anvil cell technique were performed at pressures to ~45 GPa. Our results on MgCr2O4 at ~15 GPa showed temperature-induced dissociation of MgCr2O4 to Cr2O3+MgO below ~1500 K and formation of modified ludwigite (mLd)-type Mg2Cr2O5+Cr2O3 above ~1500 K. Above 20 GPa, only a single phase with the CaTi2O4-type structure of MgCr2O4 was observed at 1400–2000 K. A second-order Birch-Murnaghan fit to pressure-volume data for the CaTi2O4-type phase of MgCr2O4 yields zero-pressure volume (V0) = 264.4(8) Å3 and bulk modulus (K0) = 185.4(4) GPa, and for the CaTi2O4-type structure of natural (Mg,Fe)(Al,Cr)2O4 yields V0 = 261(1) Å3 and K0 = 175.4(2) GPa. A second-order Birch-Murnaghan fit to pressure-volume data of mLd-type Mg2Cr2O5 yields V0 = 338.9(8) Å3 and K0 = 186.5(6) GPa. The obtained high-pressure phase relations of chromite spinels can be used as an indicator for shock pressure in impact rocks and meteorites. The bulk moduli of the high-pressure phases of MgCr2O4 and FeCr2O4 can help develop a thermodynamic model for Mg and Fe end-member spinels in the upper mantle and transition zone.
A comparative analysis of clinical and morphological features of retinal detachment in pediatric and adult practice
Authors: Sergienko A. A. , Malyshev A. V. , Apostolova A. S.
Published: March 2021

Рurpose. A comparative analysis of clinical and morphological features of retinal detachment (RD) in pediatric and adult practice.

Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of 100 case histories of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of RD in children aged 7 to 18 (mean age 12.6 ± 1.2 years) and adults aged 19 to 80 (mean age 56.8 ± 2.4 years) was performed prior to standard surgery (subtotal vitrectomy with endolaser coagulation and filling of the vitreous cavity with tamponade substances) and 6 months after it. The main parameters for the comparative analysis were gender, age, RD type, cause (risk factor), stage of development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), best corrected distance visual acuity, intraocular pressure, presence of postoperative complications, anatomical adherence of the retina after surgery, the fact of reoperation. Statistical analysis was carried out according to two criteria — chi-square and Fisher's test.

Results. Statistically significant differences in the type and cause (risk factors) of RD, were found. In children, rhegmatogenous RD was less common than in adults (69 % of cases compared with 80 % of cases), while traction RD was more common in children (29 % of cases compared to 19 % of adult cases). The C stage of PVR development in children were found to be almost twice as common as in adults. Postsurgical outcomes were found to be significantly higher in adults compared with children.

Conclusion. RD type, causes and outcomes are statistically different in pediatric and adult practice. Significantly less successful functional and anatomical results of RD surgery in children reflect differences in etiology, pathogenetic features (PVR stage) of the disease, as well as an increased risk of postoperative complications.