bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A participatory approach to address within‐country cross‐border malaria: the case of Menoreh Hills in Java, Indonesia
Authors: Ahmad Riris Andono , Ferdiana Astri , Surendra Henry , Sy Tyrone Reden , Herbianto Deni , Rahayujati Theodola Baning , Rejeki Dwi Sarwani Sri , Murhandarwati E. Elsa Herdiana
Published: March 2021

Background

Malaria remains a significant public health issue in Indonesia. Most of the endemic areas are in the eastern parts of Indonesia, but there are a few remaining foci of persistent endemic malaria in Java, particularly in Menoreh Hills, a region bordering three districts of two provinces on this island. Despite a commitment to build a partnership to eliminate cross-border malaria, there is a lack of understanding of how this partnership might be translated into an implementable strategic plan. The study aims to provide evidence of how a participatory approach was used to strengthen the cross-border collaboration and stakeholders’ capacity to develop a joint strategic, operational, and costing plan for cross-border malaria elimination.

Methods

A participatory action research was conducted from January to August 2017, involving participants from the village, district, provincial, and national levels. This study was conducted in seven phases, including document review, focus group discussions (FGDs), planning and costing workshops, and a dissemination meeting. A total of 44 participants from primary health centres (PHC) and 27 representatives of affected villages in three districts, 16 participants from the district and provincial malaria programmes and planning bureaus, and 11 participants from the national level were involved in the processes. Data on priority issues, costing, programme coverage, and administration were collected. Thematic coding and feedback were used for analysis.

Results

Problems identified by stakeholders included low community awareness and participation in malaria prevention, high mobility across three districts, lack of financial and human resources, lack of inter-district coordination, and poor implementation of migration surveillance. Cross-border strategies identified to address malaria were improving cross-border migration surveillance, strengthening the network, governance, and advocacy of malaria control implementation across borders, and developing the malaria information system. A working group composed of the three districts’ representatives authorized to decide on cross-border issues will be created.

Conclusions

The participatory approach was applicable in cross-border malaria planning for within-country settings and useful in enhancing stakeholders’ capacities as implementers. While done in a participatory way, the joint plan crafted was a non-binding agreement; stakeholders should advocate to ensure adequate funds are poured into mobilizing the programme.
Improved gene delivery to K-562 leukemia cells by lipoic acid modified block copolymer micelles
Authors: Richter Friederike , Mapfumo Prosper , Martin Liam , Solomun Jana I. , Hausig Franziska , Frietsch Jochen J. , Ernst Thomas , Hoeppener Stephanie , Brendel Johannes C. , Traeger Anja
Published: March 2021

Although there has been substantial progress in the research field of gene delivery, there are some challenges remaining, e.g. there are still cell types such as primary cells and suspension cells (immune cells) known to be difficult to transfect. Cationic polymers have gained increasing attention due to their ability to bind, condense and mask genetic material, being amenable to scale up and highly variable in their composition. In addition, they can be combined with further monomers exhibiting desired biological and chemical properties, such as antioxidative, pH- and redox-responsive or biocompatible features. By introduction of hydrophobic monomers, in particular as block copolymers, cationic micelles can be formed possessing an improved chance of transfection in otherwise challenging cells. In this study, the antioxidant biomolecule lipoic acid, which can also be used as crosslinker, was incorporated into the hydrophobic block of a diblock copolymer, poly{[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate]101-b-[n-(butyl methacrylate)124-co-(lipoic acid methacrylate)22]} (P(DMAEMA101-b-[nBMA124-co-LAMA22])), synthesized by RAFT polymerization and assembled into micelles (LAMA-mic). These micelles were investigated regarding their pDNA binding, cytotoxicity mechanisms and transfection efficiency in K-562 and HEK293T cells, the former representing a difficult to transfect, suspension leukemia cell line. The LAMA-mic exhibited low cytotoxicity at applied concentrations but demonstrated superior transfection efficiency in HEK293T and especially K-562 cells. In-depth studies on the transfection mechanism revealed that transfection efficiency in K-562 cells does not depend on the specific oncogenic fusion gene BCR-ABL alone. It is independent of the cellular uptake of polymer-pDNA complexes but correlates with the endosomal escape of the LAMA-mic. A comparison of the transfection efficiency of the LAMA-mic with structurally comparable micelles without lipoic acid showed that lipoic acid is not solely responsible for the superior transfection efficiency of the LAMA-mic. More likely, a synergistic effect of the antioxidative lipoic acid and the micellar architecture was identified. Therefore, the incorporation of lipoic acid into the core of hydrophobic-cationic micelles represents a promising tailor-made transfer strategy, which can potentially be beneficial for other difficult to transfect cell types.
How to bring research evidence into policy? Synthesizing strategies of five research projects in low-and middle-income countries
Authors: Erismann Séverine , Pesantes Maria Amalia , Beran David , Leuenberger Andrea , Farnham Andrea , Berger Gonzalez de White Monica , Labhardt Niklaus Daniel , Tediosi Fabrizio , Akweongo Patricia , Kuwawenaruwa August , Zinsstag Jakob , Brugger Fritz , Somerville Claire , Wyss Kaspar , Prytherch Helen
Published: March 2021

Background

Addressing the uptake of research findings into policy-making is increasingly important for researchers who ultimately seek to contribute to improved health outcomes. The aims of the Swiss Programme for Research on Global Issues for Development (r4d Programme) initiated by the Swiss National Science Foundation and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation are to create and disseminate knowledge that supports policy changes in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This paper reports on five r4d research projects and shows how researchers engage with various stakeholders, including policy-makers, in order to assure uptake of the research results.

Methods

Eleven in-depth interviews were conducted with principal investigators and their research partners from five r4d projects, using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews explored the process of how stakeholders and policy-makers were engaged in the research project.

Results

Three key strategies were identified as fostering research uptake into policies and practices: (S1) stakeholders directly engaged with and sought evidence from researchers; (S2) stakeholders were involved in the design and throughout the implementation of the research project; and (S3) stakeholders engaged in participatory and transdisciplinary research approaches to coproduce knowledge and inform policy. In the first strategy, research evidence was directly taken up by international stakeholders as they were actively seeking new evidence on a very specific topic to up-date international guidelines. In the second strategy, examples from two r4d projects show that collaboration with stakeholders from early on in the projects increased the likelihood of translating research into policy, but that the latter was more effective in a supportive and stable policy environment. The third strategy adopted by two other r4d projects demonstrates the benefits of promoting colearning as a way to address potential power dynamics and working effectively across the local policy landscape through robust research partnerships.

Conclusions

This paper provides insights into the different strategies that facilitate collaboration and communication between stakeholders, including policy-makers, and researchers. However, it remains necessary to increase our understanding of the interests and motivations of the different actors involved in the process of influencing policy, identify clear policy-influencing objectives and provide more institutional support to engage in this complex and time-intensive process.
The consequences of compromising the EU’s free movement of persons principle on Swiss research: how to survive constrained access to regional funding
Authors: Saric Jasmina , Bolz Miriam , Waser Marco , Käser Michael
Published: March 2021

Between 2014 and 2016, Switzerland’s access to some of the EU funding was limited after a referendum against mass immigration was accepted and the country refused to sign the free movement accord to the EU’s newest member, Croatia. It is well documented that Switzerland has suffered from a drop in participation, funding and a decrease in consortium lead positions. However, there is no account of the consequences on institutional level. We therefore aimed at describing the immediate- and longer-term impact of the partial association status to the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) and to identify key strategies for minimizing institutional damage during a limited access period to a key regional funding source. A quantitative analysis of the institute’s grants database, from 2007 to 2019, did not show any clear trends related to the partial association status of Switzerland for funding and projects awarded. The qualitative outcomes changed along the timeline assessed; whereas in 2014 a range of negative effects were stated by Swiss TPH researchers, a survey conducted in 2019 with Swiss TPH applicants and project partners to Horizon 2020, revealed that most project leaders felt that the partial association did neither affect their external partners’ willingness to collaborate nor Swiss TPH’s role in the proposal or consortium. On the other hand, the institutional strategic goal of taking on consortia leads was delayed by several years as a direct consequence of the partial association. Also, the exclusion from European research networks and the lack of consultation of expertise by the European partner institutions was widely seen as damaging. A policy of favouring long-term partnerships over ad-hoc collaborations, along with constant and trustful communication, as immediate mitigation measure, helped averting some of the reputational and access damage. Moreover, the Swiss TPH business model based on a three-way strategy of research, education and services has proven highly viable allowing to build a large pool of potential funding sources internationally, resulting in relative resilience in terms of income lost.
A novel approach to increasing community capacity for weight management a volunteer-delivered programme (ActWELL) initiated within breast screening clinics: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Anderson Annie S. , Chong Huey Yi , Craigie Angela M. , Donnan Peter T. , Gallant Stephanie , Hickman Amy , McAdam Chloe , McKell Jennifer , McNamee Paul , Macaskill E. Jane , Mutrie Nanette , O’Carroll Ronan E. , Rauchhaus Petra , Sattar Naveed , Stead Martine , Treweek Shaun
Published: March 2021

Background

It is estimated that around 30% of breast cancers in post-menopausal women are related to lifestyle. The breast cancer-pooling project demonstrated that sustained weight loss of 2 to 4.5 kg is associated with an 18% lower risk of breast cancer, highlighting the importance of small changes in body weight. Our study aimed to assess the effectiveness a volunteer-delivered, community based, weight management programme (ActWELL) for women with a BMI > 25 kg/m2 attending NHS Scotland Breast Screening clinics.

Methods

A multicentre, 1:1 parallel group, randomised controlled trial was undertaken in 560 women aged 50 to 70 years with BMI > 25 kg/m2. On completion of baseline measures, all participants received a breast cancer prevention leaflet. Intervention group participants received the ActWELL intervention which focussed on personalised diet advice and pedometer walking plans. The programme was delivered in leisure centres by (the charity) Breast Cancer Now volunteer coaches.

Primary outcomes were changes between groups at 12 months in body weight (kg) and physical activity (accelerometer measured step count).

Results

Two hundred seventy-nine women were allocated to the intervention group and 281 to the comparison group. Twelve-month data were available from 240 (81%) intervention and 227 (85%) comparison group participants. Coaches delivered 523 coaching sessions and 1915 support calls to 279 intervention participants. Mean weight change was − 2.5 kg (95% CI − 3.1 to − 1.9) in the intervention group and − 1.2 kg (− 1.8 to 0.6) in the comparison group. The adjusted mean difference was − 1.3 kg (95% CI − 2.2 to − 0.4, P = 0.003). The odds ratio for losing 5% weight was 2.20 (95% CI 1.4 to 3.4, p = 0.0005) in favour of the intervention. The adjusted mean difference in step counts between groups was 483 steps/day (95% CI − 635 to 1602) (NS).

Conclusions

A community weight management intervention initiated at breast screening clinics and delivered by volunteer coaches doubled the likelihood of clinically significant weight loss at 12 months (compared with usual care) offering significant potential to decrease breast cancer risk.

Trial registration

Database of registration: ISCRTN.

Registration number:11057518.

Date trial registered:21.07.2017.

Date of enrolment of first participant: 01.09.2017.
M2 macrophage-derived exosomal microRNAs inhibit cell migration and invasion in gliomas through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Yao Jie , Wang Zefen , Cheng Yong , Ma Chao , Zhong Yahua , Xiao Yilei , Gao Xu , Li Zhiqiang
Published: March 2021

Background

Glioma, the most common primary brain tumor, account Preparing figures for 30 to 40% of all intracranial tumors. Herein, we aimed to study the effects of M2 macrophage-derived exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) on glioma cells.

Methods

First, we identified seven differentially expressed miRNAs in infiltrating macrophages and detected the expression of these seven miRNAs in M2 macrophages. We then selected hsa-miR-15a-5p (miR-15a) and hsa-miR-92a-3p (miR-92a) for follow-up studies, and confirmed that miR-15a and miR-92a were under-expressed in M2 macrophage exosomes. Subsequently, we demonstrated that M2 macrophage-derived exosomes promoted migration and invasion of glioma cells, while exosomal miR-15a and miR-92a had the opposite effects on glioma cells. Next, we performed the target gene prediction in four databases and conducted target gene validation by qRT-PCR, western blot and dual luciferase reporter gene assays.

Results

The results revealed that miR-15a and miR-92a were bound to CCND1 and RAP1B, respectively. Western blot assays demonstrated that interference with the expression of CCND1 or RAP1B reduced the phosphorylation level of AKT and mTOR, indicating that both CCND1 and RAP1B can activate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings indicate that M2 macrophage-derived exosomal miR-15a and miR-92a inhibit cell migration and invasion of glioma cells through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
Correction to: Cost of hospital care of women with postpartum haemorrhage in India, Kenya, Nigeria and Uganda: a financial case for improved prevention
Authors: Theunissen Fiona , Cleps Isotta , Goudar Shivaprasad , Qureshi Zahida , Owa Olorunfemi Oludele , Mugerwa Kidza , Piaggio Gilda , Gülmezoglu A. Metin , Nakalembe Miriam , Byamugisha Josaphat , Osoti Alfred , Mandeep Sura , Poriot Teko , Gwako George , Vernekar Sunil , Widmer Mariana
Published: March 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Appropriate margin for planning target volume for breast radiotherapy during deep inspiration breath-hold by variance component analysis
Authors: Ono Yuka , Yoshimura Michio , Ono Tomohiro , Fujimoto Takahiro , Miyabe Yuki , Matsuo Yukinori , Mizowaki Takashi
Published: March 2021

Background

This study aimed to quantify errors by using a cine electronic portal imaging device (cine EPID) during deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) for left-sided breast cancer and to estimate the planning target volume (PTV) by variance component analysis.

Methods

This study included 25 consecutive left-sided breast cancer patients treated with whole-breast irradiation (WBI) using DIBH. Breath-holding was performed while monitoring abdominal anterior–posterior (AP) motion using the Real-time Position Management (RPM) system. Cine EPID was used to evaluate the chest wall displacements in patients. Cine EPID images of the patients (309,609 frames) were analyzed to detect the edges of the chest wall using a Canny filter. The errors that occurred during DIBH included differences between the chest wall position detected by digitally reconstructed radiographs and that of all cine EPID images. The inter-patient, inter-fraction, and intra-fractional standard deviations (SDs) in the DIBH were calculated, and the PTV margin was estimated by variance component analysis.

Results

The median patient age was 55 (35–79) years, and the mean irradiation time was 20.4 ± 1.7 s. The abdominal AP motion was 1.36 ± 0.94 (0.14–5.28) mm. The overall mean of the errors was 0.30 mm (95% confidence interval: − 0.05–0.65). The inter-patient, inter-fraction, and intra-fractional SDs in the DIBH were 0.82 mm, 1.19 mm, and 1.63 mm, respectively, and the PTV margin was calculated as 3.59 mm.

Conclusions

Errors during DIBH for breast radiotherapy were monitored using EPID images and appropriate PTV margins were estimated by variance component analysis.
Circulating tumor DNA as a dynamic biomarker of response to palbociclib and fulvestrant in metastatic breast cancer patients
Authors: Darrigues Lauren , Pierga Jean-Yves , Bernard-Tessier Alice , Bièche Ivan , Silveira Amanda Bartolini , Michel Marc , Loirat Delphine , Cottu Paul , Cabel Luc , Dubot Coraline , Geiss Romain , Ricci Francesco , Vincent-Salomon Anne , Proudhon Charlotte , Bidard François-Clément
Published: March 2021

Background

Following the PALOMA-3 study results, the combination of palbociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, with fulvestrant, a selective estrogen receptor degrader, has become a standard therapy in women with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) HER2-negative (HER2−) metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Palbociclib has been shown to increase the progression-free survival (PFS) overall but no predictive biomarker of palbociclib efficacy has been validated so far. We thus evaluated whether early changes of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels are associated with palbociclib plus fulvestrant efficiency.

Methods

ER+ HER2− MBC patients were included in a prospective observational cohort before treatment initiation. Tumor response was assessed by radiological evaluation (RECIST v1.1) every 3 months. Plasma samples were collected before treatment (baseline), at day 15 (D15), at day 30 (D30), and at disease progression. We searched for somatic mutations from archived tumor tissues by targeted deep sequencing. For patients with somatic mutations identified, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was tracked using digital droplet PCR. Ratios of ctDNA levels ([D15/baseline] and [D30/baseline]) were then correlated with prospectively registered patient characteristics and outcomes.

Results

Twenty-five of the 61 patients enrolled had a somatic mutation testable in plasma (NPIK3CA = 21, NTP53 = 2, NAKT1 = 2). At baseline, 84% of patients had detectable ctDNA levels but ctDNA levels had no prognostic impact on PFS (p = 0.10). Among those patients, ctDNA was still detected in 82% at D15 and 68% at D30. ctDNA clearance observed at day 30 was associated with longer PFS (HR = 7.2, 95% CI = 1.5–32.6, p = 0.004). On the contrary, a [D30/baseline] ctDNA ratio > 1 was associated with a shorter PFS (HR = 5.1, 95% CI = 1.4–18.3, p = 0.02) and all 5 patients with increased ctDNA levels at D30 showed disease progression after 3 months under palbociclib-fulvestrant. Finally, at the time of radiological tumor progression, ctDNA was detected in all patients tested.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that the efficiency of palbociclib and fulvestrant can be monitored by serial analyses of ctDNA before radiological evaluation and that early ctDNA variation is a prognostic factor of PFS.
Using the half normal distribution to quantify covariate balance in cluster-randomized pragmatic trials
Authors: Huang Jin , Roth David L.
Published: March 2021

Background

Pragmatic trials often consist of cluster-randomized controlled trials (C-RCTs), where staff of existing clinics or sites deliver interventions and randomization occurs at the site level. Covariate-constrained randomization (CCR) methods are often recommended to minimize imbalance on important site characteristics across intervention and control arms because sizable imbalances can occur by chance in simple randomizations when the number of units to be randomized is relatively small. CCR methods involve multiple random assignments initially, an assessment of balance achieved on site-level covariates from each randomization, and the final selection of an allocation that produces acceptable balance. However, no clear consensus exists on how to assess imbalance or identify allocations with sufficient balance. In this article, we describe an overall imbalance index (I) that is based on the mean of the absolute value of the standardized differences in means on the site characteristics.

Methods

We derive the theoretical distribution of I, then conduct simulation studies to examine its empirical properties under the varying covariate distributions and inter-correlations.

Results

I has an expected value of 0.798 and, assuming independent site characteristics, a variance of 0.363/k, where k is the number of site characteristics being balanced. Simulations indicated that the properties of I are robust under varying covariate circumstances as long as k is greater than 3 and the covariates are not too highly inter-correlated.

Conclusions

We recommend that values of I below the 10th percentile indicate sufficient overall site balance in CCRs. Definitions of acceptable randomizations might also include individual covariate criteria specified in advance, in addition to overall balance criteria.
18F-FDG positron emission tomography scanning in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease: a pilot study
Authors: Ledoult Emmanuel , Morelle Maxime , Soussan Michael , Mékinian Arsène , Béhal Hélène , Sobanski Vincent , Hachulla Eric , Huglo Damien , Le Gouellec Noémie , Remy-Jardin Martine , Baillet Clio , Launay David
Published: March 2021

Background

Interstitial lung disease is a common complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc-ILD), and it remains difficult to accurately predict its course. Progressing ILD could be more metabolically active, suggesting that the 18F-FDG tracer could be a tool in the managing of SSc-ILD.

Methods

In our center, SSc patients and controls (non-Hodgkin lymphoma cured after first-line regimen) who had received a PET/CT were screened retrospectively. The FDG uptake (visual intensity, pattern, SUVmax) was systematically recorded in > 30 regions of interest (ROIs) linked to SSc in a blind reviewing by 2 independent nuclear medicine physicians using a standardized form.

Results

Among the 545 SSc patients followed up in our center, 36, including 22 SSc-ILDs, had a PET/CT, whose indication was cancer screening in most cases. The mean ± SD age was 57.9 ± 13.0 years with 20/36 females. Fourteen patients had a disease duration of less than 2 years. A third had anti-centromere antibodies and 27.8% had anti-topoisomerase antibodies. Pulmonary FDG uptakes were higher in SSc patients than in controls (n = 89), especially in those with ILD compared with those without ILD. Pulmonary FDG uptakes were positively correlated with the ILD severity (fibrosis extent, %FVC, and %DLCO). No significant difference was found in the FDG uptakes from extrathoracic ROIs. Progressing SSc-ILDs within the 2 years after PET/CT (n = 9) had significant higher pulmonary FDG uptakes at baseline than stable SSc-ILDs (n = 13).

Conclusion

PET/CT could be a useful tool in the assessment of the severity and the prediction of pulmonary function outcome of SSc-ILD.
The CAD risk locus 9p21 increases the risk of vascular calcification in an iPSC-derived VSMC model
Authors: Trillhaase Anja , Schmidt Beatrice , Märtens Marlon , Haferkamp Undine , Erdmann Jeanette , Aherrahrou Zouhair
Published: March 2021

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Chromosome locus 9p21 was the first to be associated with increased risk of CAD and coronary artery calcification (CAC). Vascular calcification increases the risk for CAD. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are one of the major cell types involved in the development of vascular calcification.

Methods

So far, mainly animal models or primary SMCs have been used to model human vascular calcification. In this study, a human in vitro assay using iPSC-derived VSMCs was developed to examine vascular calcification. Human iPSCs were derived from a healthy non-risk (NR) and risk (R) donor carrying SNPs in the 9p21 locus. Additionally, 9p21 locus knockouts of each donor iPSC line (NR and R) were used. Following differentiation, the iPSC-derived VSMCs were characterized based on cell type, proliferation, and migration rate, along with calcium phosphate (CaP) deposits. CaP deposits were confirmed using Calcein and Alizarin Red S staining and then quantified.

Results

The data demonstrated significantly more proliferation, migration, and CaP deposition in VSMCs derived from the R and both KO iPSC lines than in those derived from the NR line. Molecular analyses confirmed upregulation of calcification markers. These results are consistent with recent data demonstrating increased calcification when the 9p21 murine ortholog is knocked-out.

Conclusion

Therefore, in conclusion, genetic variation or deletion of the CAD risk locus leads to an increased risk of vascular calcification. This in vitro human iPSC model of calcification could be used to develop new drug screening strategies to combat CAC.
No significant improvement in neuromuscular proprioception and increased reliance on visual compensation 6 months after ACL reconstruction
Authors: Wein Frank , Peultier-Celli Laetitia , van Rooij Floris , Saffarini Mo , Perrin Philippe
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To determine the contributions of proprioceptive and visual feedbacks for postural control at 6 months following ACLR, and to determine their associations with knee laxity, isokinetic tests and clinical scores.

Study design

Level IV, Case series.

Methods

Fifty volunteers who received ACLR between May 2015 and January 2017 were prospectively enrolled, and at 6 months following ACLR, postural stability was assessed. Somatosensory ratios (somatic proprioception), and visual ratios (visual compensation), were calculated to evaluate the use of sensory inputs for postural control. Univariable regression analyses were performed to determine associations of somatosensory and visual ratios with knee laxity, isokinetic tests and clinical scores.

Results

At 6 months following ACLR, the somatosensory ratio did not change, while the visual ratio decreased significantly from 5.73 ± 4.13 to 3.07 ± 1.96 (p = 0.002), indicating greater reliance on visual cues to maintain balance. Univariable analyses revealed that the somatosensory ratio was significantly lower for patients who performed aquatic therapy (β = -0.50;p = 0.045), but was not associated with knee laxity, muscle strength or clinical scores. An increased visual ratio was associated with patients who received hamstrings tendon autografts (β = 1.32;p = 0.049), but was not associated with knee laxity, muscle strength or clinical scores.

Conclusion

At 6 months following ACLR, visual ratios decreased significantly, while somatosensory ratios did not change. This may suggest that there is little or no improvement in neuromuscular proprioception and therefore greater reliance on visual cues to maintain balance. The clinical relevance of this study is that posturography can provide useful information to help research following ACLR and to predict successful return to play.
Complicated cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by an imported case of Leishmania tropica in Japan: a case report
Authors: Kitano Hiroyuki , Sanjoba Chizu , Goto Yasuyuki , Iwamoto Kazumasa , Kitagawa Hiroki , Nomura Toshihito , Omori Keitaro , Shigemoto Norifumi , Hide Michihiro , Matsumoto Yoshitsugu , Ohge Hiroki
Published: March 2021

Background

Leishmaniasis is not endemic in Japan, and imported cases are rare. However, there are increasing concerns regarding imported cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis from endemic countries to Japan. This report describes a case of imported cutaneous leishmaniasis that was diagnosed and treated in Japan.

Case presentation

A 53-year-old Pakistani man presented with skin lesions on both malleoli of his right ankle and the dorsum of the left foot. The skin lesions manifested as erythematous nodules surrounding an ulcer in the center of the lesion. The lesions of the malleoli of his right ankle each measured 3 × 3 cm, and the lesion on the top of his left foot measured 5 × 4 cm. He had been living and working in Japan but had a history of a visit to Pakistan for about 2 months in 2018. The skin lesions were biopsied. Giemsa and hematoxylin and eosin staining of biopsy samples showed amastigotes of Leishmania in macrophages, and the presence of Leishmania was confirmed by skin tissue culture. Polymerase chain reaction using biopsy specimens identified Leishmania parasites, and DNA sequence analysis revealed that the species was Leishmania tropica. The patient was treated with intravenous liposomal amphotericin B for 6 days. The erythema disappeared, and the erythematous nodules resolved within 3 weeks.

Conclusion

This is the first report of imported cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by L. tropica from Pakistan, and it is interesting that all three testing modalities showed positive results in this case.
Testosterone Reduces Body Fat in Male Mice by Stimulation of Physical Activity Via Extrahypothalamic ERα Signaling
Authors: Kim Na Ri , David Karel , Corbeels Katrien , Khalil Rougin , Antonio Leen , Schollaert Dieter , Deboel Ludo , Ohlsson Claes , Gustafsson Jan-Åke , Vangoitsenhoven Roman , Van der Schueren Bart , Decallonne Brigitte , Claessens Frank , Vanderschueren Dirk , Dubois Vanessa
Published: March 2021

Testosterone (T) reduces male fat mass, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive, limiting its clinical relevance in hypogonadism-associated obesity. Here, we subjected chemically castrated high-fat diet–induced adult obese male mice to supplementation with T or the nonaromatizable androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) for 20 weeks. Both hormones increased lean mass, thereby indirectly increasing oxygen consumption and energy expenditure. In addition, T but not DHT decreased fat mass and increased ambulatory activity, indicating a role for aromatization into estrogens. Investigation of the pattern of aromatase expression in various murine tissues revealed the absence of Cyp19a1 expression in adipose tissue while high levels were observed in brain and gonads. In obese hypogonadal male mice with extrahypothalamic neuronal estrogen receptor alpha deletion (N-ERαKO), T still increased lean mass but was unable to decrease fat mass. The stimulatory effect of T on ambulatory activity was also abolished in N-ERαKO males. In conclusion, our work demonstrates that the fat-burning action of T is dependent on aromatization into estrogens and is at least partially mediated by the stimulation of physical activity via extrahypothalamic ERα signaling. In contrast, the increase in lean mass upon T supplementation is mediated through the androgen receptor and indirectly leads to an increase in energy expenditure, which might also contribute to the fat-burning effects of T.
Treating scars with lasers: everything you need to know
Authors: Hills Samantha
Published: March 2021

In this article, Samantha Hills explains the benefits of treating various types of scars with different lasers, as well as the additional modalities for scar treatment
Design of Obstacle Avoidance and Waypoint Navigation using Global position sensor/ Ultrasonic sensor
Authors: RAJA M. , GUVEN Ugur
Published: March 2021

The objective of the research work to focus on a path planning aims to plan the route of an Unmanned Vehicle (UV) using Global Positioning System (GPS), and the most suitable path is selected avoiding the obstacles along the desired path. The coordinates of the starting point and destination are fed through programming. In addition, an obstacle avoidance algorithm is used and waypoints are given using the AVR Programming. Waypoint Navigation System for the Unmanned Ground Vehicle is use with GPS avoiding the obstacles in its path. The Waypoint Navigation System is the planning of the path of an object so that the path goes through some specified coordinates or benchmarks to the final destination thus avoiding any obstacles. The technology used to accomplish the aim includes Global Positioning System (GPS), Ultrasonic Sonic sensors and Micro-controller for programming. GPS will be the guiding medium from source to destination and two Ultrasonic Sensors will be used. These types of vehicles are used for many purposes and have been used by United States of America for Military and Defense purposes. In advanced cases, an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle may also be developed using these algorithms.
Spatial description theory of narrow-band single-carrier avalanche photodetectors
Authors: Xie Runzhang , Li Qing , Wang Peng , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei , Guo Huijun , Chen Lu , Hu Weida
Published: March 2021

The avalanche is the foundation of the understanding and vast applications of the breakdown of semiconductors and insulators. Present numerical theories analyzing the avalanche photodetectors are mainly split into two categories: the macroscopic empirical model with fitting parameters and the microscopic process simulation with statistical estimations. Here, we present a parameter-free analytic theory of the avalanche for a narrow-band material, HgCdTe, originated from quantum mechanics, avoiding any fitting parameter or any statistical estimation while taking advantage of both categories. Distinct from classical theory, we propose a full spatial description of an avalanche with basic concepts such as transition rate and equation of motion modified. As a stochastic process, the probability density function (PDF) of impact ionization is utilized in a generalized history-dependent theory. On account of different carrier generation character of light and leakage current, we suggest that carrier generated at different positions should be considered separately, which is done by generalized history-dependent theory in our work. Further, in our calculation, the reason for the abnormal rise of excess noise factor (ENF) observed in the experiment in single-carrier avalanche photodetectors is clarified.
A study on the asset smart management system based on IOT
Authors: Han Moonhee , Kim Yousin , Soo Park Hark , Ho Kim Dae
Published: March 2021

Background/Objectives: Most companies use a variety of assets for their operations. However, most companies use inefficient methods, such as on-the-spot inspections once or twice a year, instead of using the newest IT technology to manage their valuable assets. Furthermore, there is no pre-control and post-management system to prevent external leakage and the loss of expensive and portable assets.Methods/Statistical analysis: This study aims to study a practical and smart asset management system that can manage the real-time locations and the movement statuses of assets using the existing Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and the newest Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology.Improvements/Applications: Through the Smart Asset Management System developed through this study, it was possible to improve the accuracy of assets due diligence and shorten the time, and provide asset position information to the manager in real time, thereby reducing the manpower, time and cost for asset management work. As a result of the study, a Smart Asset Management System (SAMS) was developed using two IoT technologies and the system was used for 11 months in the field. When the relevant system was applied to the field, there were some effects such as,the improvement in accuracy, the reduction in input manpower, the reduction in input time, and the reduction in the number of times of surveyscompared to past manual asset management.
A study on personal information protection behavior in easy payment service: focused on protection motivation theory
Authors: Hoon Shin Jae , Hyun Choi Sang
Published: March 2021

Background/Objectives: This paper deals with the easy payment service among fin-Tech, a hot market worldwide.'Fintech' refers to a service that combines 'finance' and 'technology' as it is called, or a company that conducts such services.Methods/Statistical analysis: In order to understand the behavior of users of personal information in the simple payment service centered on twenties, I conducted empirical studies using the theory of protection motivation.Findings: The perceived vulnerability of the possibility of personal information infringement and the self - efficacy related to self - confidence of being able to keep personal information were found to have a positive effect on privacy behavior. However, the variables of perceived severity did not have a significant effect on privacy behavior.Improvements/Applications: it is necessary to conduct research on people of various age groups in future research and to carry out research by selecting detailed items within the simple payment service framework.
Selection of damping coefficient of simplified mount module to control transmissibility of environmental response under nobase mass-block
Authors: Soo Lee Gee , Yeon Lee Moo , Hyun Kim Ki , Jung Kim Chan
Published: March 2021

Background/Objectives: This paper focused on the simplified design of passive mount modulein electric power plants using only spring and damper elements.Methods/Statistical analysis: The selection of elements in a proposed simplified passive mount module was proceeded under the requirement, which is to show the response level same or less as compare to the case of current mount module. The response at the upper location of mount affect to negative effect on the responsible electric power plants so the design criterion should be satisfied with the newly proposed simple mount module.Findings: The frequency response function between the force and response acceleration at upper position of mount module was calculated from the theoretical mount module and the transmissibility function, between two response accelerations at two different passive mount modules, was evaluated for interesting harmonic frequencies (from 1X to 4X). The primary interesting frequency(X)was determined at 30(Hz) since the operation condition of the combustion engine in electric power plant is scheduled to be operated at constant 1,800(rev/min). Several simulation cases can be obtained for different combination of selected dampingcoefficients at the proposed mount module. The magnitude of transmissibility function should be less than one all interesting frequencies and the reasonable condition of the simple mount module can be derived from the simulation result.Then, the validation of the designed simplified mount module was conducted by preparing two kinds of mount module and the acceleration responses were measured at 1,800(rev/min) operation under 100% electric load. The spectral response at interesting frequencies confirms the superiority of the newly proposed mount module.Improvements/Applications: The simplified structure of mount module can be possible to save installation cost and time simultaneously and it is easy to conduct the maintenance of mount module.
Antibiofilm Activities in Skin Secretions of Malaysian Frogs
Authors: Abdul-Aziz A , S Razali M , M S Wan Azmi W , A Rahman Z , F F Abdullah M
Published: March 2021

Biofilms are extracellular structures formed by many species of bacteria that attached on various surfaces. The formation of biofilms is responsible for many health problems as they are very difficult to treat effectively due to enhanced resistant to antibiotics. Frog skin secretions contain bioactive compounds that may exhibit antibiofilms properties against biofilms infection. This study aims to screen the presence of antibiofilm activities from lyophilized skin secretions collected from Malaysian frogs. In this study, lyophilized skin secretions from four species of Malaysian frogs were tested for biofilm inhibition activities against the bacteria Staphylococcus epidermidis, ATCC 35984. Antibiofilm activity was tested at three different stages of biofilm formation which were biofilm maturation, biofilm attachment and biofilm dispersion. Biofilm treated with skin secretion from Fejervarya multistriata showed the presence of antibiofilm activities of 45 % which was able to reduce biofilm formation to 55 % at the attachment stage. Similarly, the biofilm formation at the maturation stage was reduced to 65.8 % only. No antibiofilm activities of Fejervarya multistriata was detected at the dispersion stage. The sample showing positive results was fractionated using column chromatography and further purified by C18 reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography column (HPLC). Mass spectroscopy revealed the presence of a single peptide. In conclusion, frog skin secretion of F. multistriata contains peptide that inhibits biofilm at both attachment and maturation stages.Â
Altered EPS Protein Secretion in Salmonella Typhimurium Biofilm Following Treatment with DMSO
Authors: F Z  Raja Yahya M , Alias Z , A Karsani S
Published: March 2021

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is known to inhibit biofilm formation by Salmonella typhimurium and cause infrared spectral variations of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix. However, the impact of DMSO treatment on EPS protein secretion in S. typhimurium biofilm remains not well investigated. The present study was performed to investigate the EPS protein profile of S. typhimurium biofilm following treatment with DMSO. Biofilm was developed in 6-well microplate at 37 OC for 24 hours. Quantitative resazurin assay and infrared spectroscopy were performed to determine biofilm viability and cell surface chemistry respectively. Subtractive EPS protein profiling was carried out using a combination of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and tandem mass spectrometry. Treatment with 32% DMSO caused significant reduction in biofilm viability and alteration of cell surface chemistry. Subtractive comparison of EPS protein profiles highlighted one unique protein band, 52.1 kDa, which was secreted only in 32% DMSO treated EPS matrix and not in control EPS matrix. In turn, three EPS proteins were successfully identified from the 51.2 kDa protein band. In conclusion, altered EPS protein secretion following treatment with 32% DMSO may mediate inhibition of S. typhimurium biofilm.Â Â
Investigation on the Effect of Antibiotic and Multivitamin in the Formation of Biofilm in Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Causing Pathogens
Authors: P  Sajna K , Paulraj P , Balasupramaniam V , Sajeesh P , Chandramohan M , Ketharin T
Published: March 2021

Urinary catheters make humans vulnerable to Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) by damaging the natural barrier of the body. Bacteria which are commonly related to this infection are Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.Â  In this study Â Â Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were obtained from the hospital.Â  Levofloxacin is a newly developed fluoroquinolone antibiotic, which is commonly used in clinical practice. The antibacterial effect of levofloxacin was studied using disk diffusion method. In this method the diameter of zone of inhibition in the presence of multivitamin was smaller than without multivitamin. The statistical analysis showed a significant difference in antibiotic sensitivity with and without multivitamin (p<0.05). In the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC), It was observed that in the absence of multivitamin Klebsiella pneumoniae growth stopped at the concentration of 200 Âµg/ml and in the presence of multivitamin the growth stopped at the concentration of 400 Âµg/ml. The growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa stopped at the concentration of 400 Âµg/ml in the absence of multivitamin and in the presence the growth was stopped at the concentration of 800 Âµg/ml. Similar effect was studied in biofilm form as well by measuring the absorbance at 600nm. Using the absorbance values the biofilm growth curve was carried out and in the presence of multivitamin, both bacteria in single and consortia form stayed in stationary phase longer than without multivitamin. These findings demonstrate that a higher concentration of antibiotic is required to inhibit the growth of bacteria when supplemented with multivitamins and in turn increases the development of antibiotic resistance under biofilm condition.Â Â
Effect of Different basal Media on Callus Growth and Morphology of Barringtonia Racemosa L Endosperms Explant
Authors: D A Kamaruzzaman N , Saleh A , Pardi F , Ahmat N , J Sidik N
Published: March 2021

Barringtonia racemosa L. has many medicinal properties especially the fruit and leaf parts. The fruits are used to relief pain and inflammation, the leaves were proved to control high blood pressure whereas the roots barks are effective to treat chicken pox. Due to its medicinal importance for human health, it is essential to conserve this plant. A comparative study of different types of media was performed to study its effect on callus growth of endosperm explant from B. racemosa. Types of basal media studied including Murashige and Skoog (MS), Lloyd and McCown Woody Plant (WPM) and Gamborg (B5). The endosperm explant of B. racemosa were cultured on different basal MS, WPM and B5 media supplemented with 1.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/L kinetin. The observation of callus growth and morphological characteristics of callus were done on weekly basis within 4 weeks. After 4 weeks of incubation period, the maximum fresh weight (0.300 Â± 0.027g) and dry weight (0.025 Â± 0.003g) were recorded from the explants cultured on MS medium followed by WPM and B5 media supplemented with 1.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/L kinetin. The textures of callus produced from MS were nodular in shape and creamy colour. In conclusion, all the media studied had successfully induced the callus growth of B. racemosa with the present of 1.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/L kinetin.Â