bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Third Order Nonlinear Optical Characteristics of Er3+ doped BaMoO4 Nanostructures
Authors: sharath RA , rahulan K Mani , Flower N Angeline Little , sujatha annie , vinitha g , Rajeev Reshma , saha tandrima , Prakashbabu D
Published: March 2021

We report the third order nonlinear optical properties of Er3+-doped BaMoO4 nanostructures, and its dependence on Er dopant concentration. BaMoO4 nanostructures with different concentration of Er were synthesized by chemical precipitation method and were characterized by UV-Vis absorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescence measurements. The incorporation of Er ions shifted the absorption band of BaMoO4 towards higher wavelength and enhanced the light absorption in the visible region. XRD patterns showed that the powders crystallize in scheelite-type tetragonal structure. The nonlinear optical behavior of the nanostructures was investigated by a Z-scan technique at 532 nm using continuous wave Nd:YAG laser. Experimental results suggested that the addition of Er can considerably enhance the nonlinear absorption and refractive index coefficients of BaMoO4 which could be used as a potential for nonlinear optical device applications.
Action Grammars of Human Behavior – Measurement, Evolution, and Neural Representation
Authors: Stout Dietrich , Chaminade Thierry , Apel Jan , Faisal A. Aldo
Published: March 2021

Human behaviors from tool-making to language are thought to rely on a uniquely evolved capacity for hierarchical action sequencing. Testing this idea will require objective, generalizable methods for measuring the structural complexity of real-world behavior. Here we present a data-driven approach for extracting action grammars from basic ethograms, exemplified with respect to the evolutionarily-relevant behavior of stone tool-making. We analyzed sequences from the experimental replication of ~2.5 Mya Oldowan vs. ~0.5 Mya Acheulean tools, finding that, while using the same “alphabet” of elementary actions, Acheulean sequences are quantifiably more complex and Oldowan grammars are a subset of Acheulean grammars. We illustrate the utility of our complexity measures by re-analyzing data from an fMRI study of stone tool-making to identify brain responses to structural complexity. Beyond specific implications regarding the co-evolution of language and technology, this exercise illustrates the general applicability of our method to investigate naturalistic human behavior and cognition.
Outcomes that explain excess of body fat mass in preschoolers: a cross-sectional exploratory study
Authors: Nobre Juliana Nogueira Pontes , Morais Rosane Luzia de Souza , Ramos-Jorge Maria Letícia , Fernandes Amanda Cristina , Viegas Ângela Alves , Figueiredo Pedro Henrique Scheidt , Costa Henrique Silveira , Esteves Elizabethe Adriana , Júnior Fidelis Antônio da Silva , Camargos Ana Cristina Resende , Mendonça Vanessa Amaral , Lacerda Ana Cristina Rodrigues
Published: March 2021

Background: Childhood obesity requires approaches that combine personal interventions with social and environmental changes. The preschool period is crucial in the context of the expansion of adipose tissue since it covers the adiposity rebound. Although emerging studies verifying a range of possible social, environmental, and personal explanatory variables for childhood obesity, the assessment of body fat mass using a gold standard instrument, is still a gap especially during the preschool period. The aim of this study was to determine social, environmental, and personal factors associated to the excess of body fat mass in preschool period. Methods: Quantitative, exploratory, cross-sectional study developed in public schools. Results: Analyzes using univariate and multivariate models demonstrated that parental obesity, highest quality of environmental stimulation and screen time explained almost 50% the excess of body fat mass in preschoolers. Conclusion: The presence of obesity in one parent, a home environment with high stimulation, and permanence for a long period on-screen are outcomes strongly associated with the presence of an excess of body fat mass in the preschool period. These findings may assist the development of public guidelines focusing on child health to outline effective strategies that contribute to the quality of life and treatment of preschoolers with excess body fat mass.
YIV-906 Potentiated anti-PD1 Action Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Enhancing Adaptive and Innate Immunity in the Tumor Microenvironment.
Authors: Yang Xiaochen , lam wing , Jiang Zaoli , Guan Fulan , Han Xue , Hu Rong , Cai Wei , Cheng William , Liu Shwu-Huey , Cheng Peikwen , Cai Yuping , Rattray Nicholas J.W. , Johnson Caroline H. , Chen Lieping , Cheng Yung-Chi
Published: March 2021

YIV-906 (PHY906) is a standardized botanical cancer drug candidate developed with a systems biology approach - inspired by a traditional Chinese herbal formulation, historically used to treat gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. In combination with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, preclinical and clinical results suggest that YIV-906 has the potential to prolong survival and improve quality of life for cancer patients. Here, we demonstrated that YIV-906 plus anti-PD1 could eradicate all Hepa 1–6 tumors in all tumor bearing mice. YIV-906 was found to have multiple mechanisms of action to enhance adaptive and innate immunity. In combination, YIV-906 reduced PD1 or counteracted PDL1 induction caused by anti-PD1 which led to higher T-cell activation gene expression of the tumor. In addition, YIV-906 could reduce immune tolerance by modulating IDO activity and reducing monocytic MDSC of the tumor. The combination of anti-PD1 and YIV-906 generated acute inflammation in the tumor microenvironment with more M1-like macrophages. YIV-906 could potentiate the action of IFNg to increase M1-like macrophage polarization while inhibiting IL4 action to decrease M2 macrophage polarization. Flavonoids from YIV-906 were responsible for modulating IDO activity and potentiating IFNg action in M1-like macrophage polarization. In conclusion, YIV-906 could act as an immunomodulator and enhance the innate and adaptive immune response and potentiate anti-tumor activity for immunotherapies to treat cancer.
Correlation Between Muscle Architecture and Anaerobic Power in Athletes Involved in Different Sports
Authors: Lee Kyu-Lim , Oh Tae-Woong , Gil Young-Chun , Kim Hee-Jin
Published: March 2021

Background: Athletes cultivate highly developed muscles based on their sport category, creating a body shape that matches the characteristics of that sports category. We tested the significance of the correlation between muscle development characteristics and anaerobic power in athletes to build a database for each category.Methods: Fifty-eight college athletes participated in this study. To assess muscle characteristics, muscle thickness (MT) and fascicle angle (FA) were measured by ultrasonography (US) in lower limb. Furthermore, anaerobic power was measured with the Wingate test.Results: Analysis of the correlation between muscle structure and anaerobic power revealed significant differences between the sports categories, except for the MT of the medial head of gastrocnemius (Gm), lateral head of gastrocnemius, and FA of Gm. A significant difference was observed for all parameters, except for the arrival time to peak power in the anaerobic power items; in particular, a high degree of correlation in mean power/kg and peak power/kg was observed.Conclusion: A similar tendency was observed in the correlation between muscle structure and anaerobic power in most sports categories, but certain muscle characteristic factors were prominent in each sport. Based on these, it is possible to contribute to predicting and promoting athletic performance.
Longitudinal Alterations of the Cisternal Segment of Trigeminal Nerve and Brain Pain-matrix Regions in Patients with Trigeminal Neuralgia Before and After Treatment
Authors: Chen Tai-Yuan , Ko Ching-Chung , Wu Te-Chang , Lin Li-Ching , Shih Yun-Ju , Hung Yi-Chieh , Chou Ming-Chung
Published: March 2021

Background: Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is the most common type of chronic neuropathic facial pain, but the etiology and pathophysiological mechanisms after treatment are still not well understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the longitudinal changes of the cisternal segment of the trigeminal nerve and brain pain-related regions in patients with TN before and after treatment using readout segmentation of long variable echo-train (RESOLVE) diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and transverse relaxation (T2)-weighted sampling perfection with application-optimized contrast at different flip angle evolutions (T2-SPACE). Methods: Twelve patients with TN and four healthy controls were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent assessment of the visual analog scale (VAS), and acquisition of RESOLVE DTI and T2-SPACE images before and at 1, 6, and 12 months after treatments. Regions-of-interest were placed on the bilateral anterior, middle, and posterior parts of the cisternal segment of the trigeminal nerve, the bilateral root entry zone (REZ), bilateral nuclear zone, and the center of pontocerebellar tracts, respectively. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis was conducted with T2-SPACE images, and gray matter volumes (GMV) were measured from brain pain-matrix regions. Results: The results demonstrated that the axial diffusivity of the middle part of the cisternal trigeminal nerve, the fractional anisotropy of the bilateral nuclear zones, and the mean diffusivity of the center of pontocerebellar tract significantly changed over time before and after treatment. The changes of GMV in the pain-matrix regions exhibited similar trends to the VAS before and after treatment. Conclusion: We conclude that magnetic resonance imaging with RESOLVE DTI and VBM with T2-SPACE images were helpful in the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms in patients with TN before and after treatment.
An Analytic Solution of Stress Distribution Around a Shallow Buried Hollow Cylinder Karst Cave in Limestone Strata
Authors: Xie Peng , Ma Shaokun , Wen Haijia , Jie Shaolong , Liu Junfeng , Cui Jie
Published: March 2021

The chief objective of the article is to learn the spatial characteristics of stress distribution around a shallow buried cylinder karst cave in limestone strata. Firstly, taking into account the geometry of limestone formations, and the characteristics of karst geomorphology in China, a spatial axial-symmetrical hollow model was established. Concurrently, combing available work and the concept of elasticity, the boundary conditions are determined. Subsquently, Love displacement method was introduced, in addition to the expressions of stress components were gained. The diagram characteristics of each stress component are summarized, which are affected by various influencing factors. Finally, in order to prove the rationality of the general solution, a numerical simulation was carried out on the basis of practical engineering, and the maximum error is less than 5%. Thus, the analytical solution could represent the spatial characteristics of stress distribution around a shallow buried cylinder karst cave in limestone strata.
Evaluation of motor complications in Parkinson’s disease: understanding the perception gap between patients and physicians
Authors: Ogura Hiromu , Nakagawa Ryoko , Ishido Miwako , Yoshinaga Yoko , Watanabe Jun , Kurihara Kanako , Hayashi Yuka , Nagaki Koichi , Mishima Takayasu , Fujioka Shinsuke , Tsuboi Yoshio
Published: March 2021

Background: Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) receiving levodopa treatment often report the motor complications including wearing-off (WO), dyskinesia and morning akinesia phenomena. Since motor complications are associated with a decrease in patient quality of life (QoL), it is important to identify its occurrence and commence immediate management. This study investigated whether differences in the perception of motor complications exist between patients and their physicians in routine clinical practice.Methods: Following an internet-based screening survey, questionnaires were distributed to physicians and their patients in Japan. The 9-item Wearing-off Questionnaire (WOQ-9) assessed the presence of WO objectively; patients with WOQ-9 scores ≥2 were considered to have WO. McNemar’s tests were used to compare physician assessment with the WOQ-9, patient self-awareness with physician assessment, and patient self-awareness with the WOQ-9, separately. Morning akinesia, dyskinesia, and QoL were also assessed.Results: A total of 235 patients with PD and their 92 physicians participated in this survey. A significant discordance was observed between the WOQ-9 and physician assessment of WO (67.2% vs 46.0%; p<0.0001). Furthermore, patient self-awareness of WO was 35.3% (p=0.0004, vs physician). Morning akinesia (patient, 58.7%; physician, 48.9%; p=0.0032), dyskinesia (patient, 34.0%; physician, 23.4%; p=0.0006), and bodily discomfort (patient, 25.0; physician, 0.0; p=0.0102) of QoL were underrecognized by physicians. Conclusions: This study investigated differences in the perception of WO between patients with PD and their physicians in routine clinical practice and highlighted that patients have a low awareness of the symptoms of WO compared with physician assessments and the WOQ-9. Conversely, morning akinesia, dyskinesia, and bodily discomfort were underrecognized by physicians.
Olfactory modulation of barrel cortex activity during active whisking and passive whisker stimulation
Authors: Renard Anthony , Harrell Evan , Bathallier Brice
Published: March 2021

Rodents depend on olfaction and touch to meet many of their fundamental needs. The joint significance of these sensory systems is underscored by an intricate coupling between sniffing and whisking. However, the impact of simultaneous olfactory and tactile inputs on sensory representations in the cortex remains elusive. To study these interactions, we recorded large populations of barrel cortex neurons using 2-photon calcium imaging in head-fixed mice during olfactory and tactile stimulation. We find that odors alter barrel cortex activity in at least two ways, first by enhancing whisking, and second by central cross-talk that persists after whisking is abolished by facial nerve sectioning. Odors can either enhance or suppress barrel cortex neuronal responses, and while odor identity can be decoded from population activity, it does not interfere with the tactile representation. Thus, barrel cortex represents olfactory information which, in the absence of learned associations, is coded independently of tactile information.
Helicobacter pylori cagA Status and Gastric Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Karbaalei Mohsen , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Yamaoka Yoshio , Keikha Masoud
Published: March 2021

Background: Recent studies have investigated the role of Helicobacter pylori infection in the development of gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. It is estimated that approximately 0.1% of people infected with H. pylori develop gastric MALT. However, the role of the CagA antigen, the highest causative agent of H. pylori, in increasing the risk of gastric MALT remains unclear and controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate the effect of cagA status on the development of gastric MALT.Methods: All articles evaluating the status of the cagA gene in the development of gastric MALT were collected using systematic searches in online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar, regardless of publication date. The association between cagA and gastric MALT was assessed using the odds ratio (OR) summary. In addition, a random-effects model was used in cases with significant heterogeneity.Results: A total of 10 studies met our inclusion criteria, among which 1,860 patients participated. We observed a meaningful association between cagA status and gastric MALT, especially in Western countries (OR: 1.30; 0.90–1.87 with 95% CIs). However, the heterogeneity was significant; therefore, the results should be interpreted with caution. Surprisingly, a strong positive association was observed between cagA status and high-grade lymphomas (OR: 6.43; 2.45–16.84 with 95% CIs). In addition, no study has evaluated the correlation between cagA and vacA, but we observed an inverse association between vacA and gastric MALT risk (OR: 0.92; 0.57–1.50 with 95% CIs). Conclusion: CagA may not play a significant role in the early stages of gastric MALT, but it can be translocated to B cells and affect the development of high-grade lymphomas.
Distribution of ABO and Rh types in North of Asir region in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Belali Tareg M. , Alanazi Amal O. , Abomughaid Mosleh M. , Ali Adnan M. , Alhujaily Muhanad
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives.This study was conducted to form a better understanding of the distribution of ABO and Rh types among the population of the north of Asir region in Saudi Arabia and compare the findings to similar studies that were carried out in other parts of the kingdom and the Middle East. Understanding the frequency of different blood types in different populations is imperative. Blood types are essential not only for transfusion therapy but also for the prediction of the outcome of different diseases. The study aims to establish an understanding of the blood group frequency among the residents of the north of Asir region, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, this study was conducted to compare the blood group frequency in the region to that in different parts of the Arabian Peninsula.Subjects and Methods This study was done throughout 1year from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020, using samples from 4142 voluntary subjects at the blood bank of King Abdullah hospital, Bisha. Commercially provided ABO and Rh antibodies were used for the standard blood grouping procedure. Results:Our findings have shown that O is the most prominent ABO blood group while AB was the least frequent. The frequency of A blood type was the second high followed by B blood group while positive Rh factor was more common than the negative. A Comparison of our findings to other studies from Saudi Arabia and nations in the Middle East was also discussed.Conclusion:O+ >A+ >B+ > O->AB+> A->B- > AB- is the order of blood groups frequency in our study for males, while in females the order was almost the same except for the last three blood types was as following: >A->B->AB+. AB- on the other hand, was completely absent in female donors. There are some similarities and differences between our findings and that of other studies from the kingdom and other countries. Knowing and understanding the distribution of ABO and Rh types is essential for creating better policies for transfusion interventions and blood banks managements.
Agronomic Performance and Flowering Behavior in Response to Photoperiod and Vernalization in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Genotypes with Contrasting Drought Tolerance Behavior
Authors: Abu-Elenein Jamal , Al-Sayaydeh Rabea , Akkeh Zahera , Al-Ajlouni Zakaria , Al-Bawalize AbdRaheem A. , Hasan Shireen , Hindi Tariq , Rahahla Randa , Ayad Jamal Y. , Al-Abdallat Ayed M.
Published: March 2021

Background In barley, flowering behavior is a highly regulated and complex process where the appropriate matching of reproductive development with seasonal variation in water availability confer barley adaptation to different environments. In this study, the role of variation in flowering time and drought tolerance in four selected barley genotypes was studied under field and controlled conditions. For this purpose, field trials were conducted for two consecutive seasons at three diverse environments where the studied genotypes were subjected to either rainfed conditions or rainfed plus supplementary irrigation under two different sowing dates. Furthermore, reproductive meristem development in two selected barley genotypes, Rum (drought tolerant) and Steptoe (drought-sensitive) was also assessed in response to both vernalization and water stress under two different photoperiod conditions.Results Variation in the number of days to heading was more pronounced under rainfed conditions than under well water conditions. For agronomic performance, Rum was superior under all tested environments, which assure its general adaptability to multiple environments, while Steptoe was the poorest. The transition to reproductive meristem was faster under vernalized long-day conditions as compared to vernalized short-day conditions. The progress of shoot apical meristem development and heading under long-day conditions was significantly faster in Rum than that of Steptoe. A clear effect of drought stress was observed on shoot apical meristem development in Steptoe. Under short-day conditions, vernalized Rum plants subjected to water deficit showed an advanced meristem development stage a significant earlier HD when compared with non-stressed plants. This early flowering behavior in stressed Rum plants under short-day conditions was accompanied by higher gene expression of the Vrn-H1 gene. Conclusion In conclusion, the integration of vernalization and photoperiod signals in drought-tolerant barley genotypes is associated with early flowering behavior and higher productivity in dry environments.
Therapeutic Responses to Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy by Molecular Subtype in Bladder Cancer Patients: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Shunde , Yuan Xiaoyu , Ge Chengguo , Zhang Junyong , Shen Zhongjie , Zhao Jiaming , Zheng Baishu
Published: March 2021

Background Bladder cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by high recurrence and a poor prognosis. Molecular subtypes of BC portend personalized and precision medicine. However, whether there is a difference in therapeutic response to chemotherapy or immunotherapy between different molecular subtypes of BC has not been systematically evaluated.Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed up to October 2020. Consensus clusters 1 (CC1), CC2 and CC3 molecular subtypes were defined according to the heterogeneity and similarity of BC molecular subtypes from published studies to perform meta-analysis. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the therapeutic response, and a fixed- or random-effects model was used according to the existence of heterogeneity.Results Eight studies involving 1463 patients were included in this research. For immunotherapy, CC3 showed the highest respond rate (CC3 vs CC1: OR 0.52, CI [0.34–0.78], P = 0.002. CC3 vs CC2: OR 0.42, CI [0.28–0.62], P < 0.0001), which was mainly reflected in the highest response rate to atezolizumab (CC3 vs CC1: OR 0.47, CI [0.29–0.75], P = 0.002. CC3 vs CC2: OR 0.38, CI [0.24–0.59], P < 0.0001), and the response rates to nivolumab showed no advantage over CC1 and CC2. No difference in response to the two immunotherapies between CC1 and CC2. For chemotherapy, CC3 had the lowest response rate to the overall chemotherapy (CC3 vs CC1: OR 2.28, CI [1.39–3.74], P = 0.001. CC3 vs CC2: OR = 2.25, 95% CI 1.34–3.76, P = 0.002). Compared with CC2, CC3 responded poorly to both neo-adjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) (OR 1.93, CI [1.09–3.41], P = 0.02) and chemoradiation therapy (CRT) (OR 4.53, CI [1.26–16.27], P = 0.02). Compared with CC1, CC3 only showed a poorer response to CRT (OR 6.07, CI [1.87–19.71], P = 0.003), and no difference in NAC. No difference between CC1 and CC2 subtypes in the response rates to NAC and CRT.Conclusions Our study suggested that molecular classifications are important predictors of cancer treatment outcomes of BC patients and could identify subgroup patients who are most likely to benefit from specific cancer treatments.
Association Between the Method of Delivery and Respiratory Outcomes in Extremely Preterm and Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants: a Retrospective Cohort Study in Newborns From 2000-2003
Authors: Vosbeek Eleonora G.M. , Beijers Rosanne J.G.C.G. , Gerver Willem J.M. , Nijhuis Jan G. , Kramer Boris W.W.
Published: March 2021

Background: Extremely preterm (gestational age (GA) <28 weeks) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants (<1000g) are at risk to develop respiratory morbidities like respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and pneumothorax. The delivery method also influences respiratory outcomes, with cesarean sections (CS) being associated with a higher incidence of RDS, pneumothorax and ventilatory treatment. To develop new preventive or early respiratory treatment strategies for high-risk neonates, knowledge about risk factors for respiratory outcomes in this group is necessary. This study aims to investigate the association between the delivery method and respiratory outcomes in extremely preterm and ELBW infants.Methods: We performed a retrospective patient record cohort study of all extremely preterm and/or ELBW neonates born between 2000-2003 in a tertiary center in Maastricht, the Netherlands. Differences in RDS, BPD, pneumothorax, invasive mechanical ventilation (MV), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), nasal oxygen, duration of invasive MV, CPAP and total respiratory support, nitric oxide, surfactant and postnatal steroids with pulmonary indication between vaginal delivery (VD) and CS were assessed.Results: A total of 172 infants were included. The CS group (n=119) had a higher mean GA, percentage males and prevalence of multiple gestations compared to the VD group (n=53) (p<0.05). Furthermore, birth weight, birth weight standard deviation score (SDS) and weight at discharge were lower in the CS group (p<0.05). Fetal distress and moderate 1-minute Apgar scores (4-6) were more common in the CS group, as was premature rupture of membranes. Low 1-minute Apgar scores (0-3), persistent ductus arteriosus and intraventricular hemorrhage occurred more frequently in the VD group, as did pre-eclampsia or ‘hemolysis elevated liver enzymes low platelet count’-syndrome. After correcting for GA and birth weight SDS, a significant association between CS and receiving surfactant was found. Other primary respiratory outcomes and treatments did not show any associations. Conclusions: After correcting for GA and birth weight SDS, the method of delivery is not associated with adverse respiratory outcomes in extremely preterm and ELBW infants. Due to changes in standard operating procedures, additional prospective research should focus on infants born more recently.Trial registration: Not applicable.
Er3+/ Yb3+ Doped Active Optic Y Splitter Realized by Diffusion Waveguides with Ag+ - Na+ Ion Exchange
Authors: Šmejcký Jiří , Mareš David , Barkman Ondřej , Nekvindová Pavla , Prajzler Václav , Jeřábek Vítězslav
Published: March 2021

We reported on the active channel waveguides, formed in novel types of silicate glasses, doped with rare-earth elements, and Zn were investigated. The silicate glass GZ4 with Er 3+ and Yb 3+ content was studied, and the best doping ratio was estimated about luminescent properties. The composition of the glass samples (GZ4) with the content of 0.25 at. % Er 3+ and 5.0 at. % Yb 3+ and Zn 4.0 at. % resp. 5.6 at. % Zn was optimized. This glass was evaluated as the most suitable material for integrated amplifiers in the telecommunication band of 1 530 – 1 565 nm. Other samples were prepared with an active channel waveguides and active planar optical power splitter Y with a splitting ratio of 1x2 by two-step ion-exchange Na + -Ag + . Diffusion profiles of the created samples were analyzed by the EMA microscope and compared with the near mode-field distribution measurement results. Afterward, the amplification properties of the designed structures were studied, and the differential gain from 1.2 to 1.6 dB (0.48 to 0.64 dB/cm) was achieved by pumping 200 mW at 980 nm.
Structural, Electrical, Magnetic and Optical Properties of BaTi1-x(Ni1/2Nb1/2)xO3 Ceramics
Authors: li sheng , zhang yuanyuan , Zhou Lisa , Liu Qingqing , Yang Jing , Bai Wei , Tang Xiaodong
Published: March 2021

In this work, we have investigated the structural, electrical, magnetic and optical properties of Ni-Nb co-doped BaTiO3 ceramics. The compositions of BaTi1 − x(Ni1/2Nb1/2)xO3 were prepared through conventional solid-state reaction method. All the samples exhibit a gradual phase transition behavior from the tetragonal to a cubic structure with the increase of Ni-Nb co-doping concentration. The temperature dependence of the dielectric constant reveals that the transition temperature gradually decreased with an increase in Ni2+ and Nb5+ concentrations. The ferroelectric studies show these doping samples have relatively full ferroelectric hysteresis loops at room temperature, but exhibit a decreasing ferroelectric property with the increasing level of doping. The magnetic measurement suggests that these samples have ferromagnetic ordering at room temperature with an increase in the Ni-Nb doping. Moreover, band gaps of these samples are obviously reduced through the strategy of co-doping.
Quantitative Ethnomedicinal Study of Plants Used by the Population in the Middle Plateaux of Uvira Territory (D. R. of Congo).
Authors: Kaboyi Gentil Iragi , Rusaati Butoto Imani wa , Nfizi Innocent Byamungu , Ndabaga Cephas Masumbuko , Gendusa Patience Arusi , Matendo Astrid Furaha , Kang Jun-Won
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThis work increases the ethnomedicinal plants information in the Uvira Territory and, in particular, the middle plateau. Till now little is known about ethnomedicinal researches in Uvira Territory and no previous study has surveyed the medicinal uses of plants in the middle plateau of Uvira Territory. MethodsThe plant uses information survey was collected through a direct interview conducted with 25 local healers in 7 villages. The ethnobotanical information for each species, including scientific name, family, local name, morphological type, plant parts used, preparation, disease name, plant habitat was collected. The conservation status of plant species was checked by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. various quantitative indices (Relative frequency of citation Use Value, Informant consensus factor, Family Importance Value, Pearson’s correlation, Jaccard Index) were calculatedResultsInformation on 69 medicinal plants belonging to 61 genera and 34 families was collected. The total number of species per family showed that Fabaceae, Asteraceae, and Myrtaceae were most represented. Most species were herbs. Leave was the most frequently used part and decoction was the principal preparation method. Significantly higher numbers of medicinal plants were used against digestive system disorders and intestinal parasites. Tetradenia riparia, Syzygium guineense, Morella salicifolia and Erythrina abyssinica were the medicinal plants with the highest UV values. The Pearson correlation coefficient between RFC and UV was 0.95 showing a highly positive significant association. A total of 14 species were recorded as vulnerable.Conclusion﻿This study was able to show that this area, located in middle plateau of Uvira Territory, can provide a considerable medicinal plant diversity with an heterogenous medicinal importance to the community. With the relative high number of vulnerable species, there is a requirement for a sustainable management for these medicinal plants.
Salvage Robotic-Assisted Thoracoscopic Esophagectomy after Definitive Chemoradiotherapy for Clinical T4b Esophageal Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Sasamori Ryohei , Motoyama Satoru , Sato Yusuke , Wakita Akiyuki , Nagaki Yushi , Fujita Hiromu , Kemuriyama Kohei , Sasaki Yoshihiro , Imai Kazuhiro , Minamiya Yoshihiro
Published: March 2021

BackgroundAlthough twenty years have passed since the start of robot-assisted thoracoscopic esophagectomy, salvage esophagectomy by robotic-assisted surgery has not yet been introduced by almost surgeons. Theoretically, robot-assisted thoracoscopic esophagectomy (RATE) increases operative precision and maneuverability within the narrow space of the mediastinum. However, surgeons have doubted that RATE is indicated for patients with tumor invasion of adjacent vital organs clinically (cT4b) or patients with scar tissue from definitive chemoradiotherapy. Herein, we report our case of salvage RATE for cT4b thoracic esophageal cancer which invaded to the left main bronchus before definitive chemoradiotherapy.Case presentationA man in his 60’s with middle thoracic esophageal cancer [cT4b (left main bronchus) N1 M0 cStage IIIC] received definitive chemoradiotherapy (fluorouracil and cisplatin, total radiation dose of 60 Gy). After the chemoradiotherapy, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a residual primary tumor, and we performed robotic-assisted thoracoscopic subtotal esophagectomy and gastric tube reconstruction via a retrosternal route with three-field lymphadenectomy. Although it was difficult to dissect the tumor from adjacent organs, especially in the left main bronchus and pericardium, due to the scarring after definitive chemoradiotherapy, R0 surgery was achieved. With RATE, the high-resolution three-dimensional images, stable surgical field and stable motion are considerable advantages for salvage esophagectomy for cT4b tumors. At present (30 months after surgery), the patient’s performance status is 0 and he is alive without a recurrence. ConclusionsRobot-assisted thoracoscopic esophagectomy provided considerable advantages for salvage esophagectomy after definitive chemoradiotherapy for a cT4b tumor.
Good Operative Effects of Patellofemoral Arthroplasty Combined With the Tibial Tubercle Transfer for Isolated Patellofemoral Arthritis Patients With an Increased Tibial Tuberosity-Trochlear Groove Distance
Authors: Dong Conglei , Zhao Chao , Li Ming , Kang Huijun , Piao Kang , Hao Kuo , Xu Chenyue , Wei Maozheng , Wang Fei
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThe objective of present study was to investigate the operative effect of patellofemoral arthroplasty combined with the tibial tubercle transfer for isolated patellofemoral arthritis patients with an increased tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance (>20mm). MethodsA prospective study was performed between November 2012 and December 2017. Finally, thirty-six cases, with a mean age of 61.1 ± 7.3 years, were admitted to our study. A total of 17 patients underwent patellofemoral arthroplasty combined with tibial tubercle transfer, and 19 patients underwent patellofemoral arthroplasty only. All eligible patients had CT scans preoperatively and at 12 months follow-up, to assess the stability of the patellofemoral joint on axial slices. In addition, the demographic and clinical features of all the patients were asked. Knee balance was assessed with the single leg stance test and timed get up and go, and functionality was evaluated with stair climbing test and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score. (P>0.05) ResultsPreoperatively, the data regarding the knee balance and functionality were not significantly different between the two Groups (P>0.05). Many measurements showed significant differences between the two groups at the last follow-up. Significant differences were seen in well-known measurements such as the SLST (Group I, 28.9 s (SD 7.5); Group II, 20.3 s (SD 5.9); p < 0.001), TGUG (Group I, 13.4 s (SD 3.2); Group II, 16.8 s (SD 3.1); p < 0.001), and SCT (Group I, 18.6 s (SD 6.8); Group II, 24.5 s (SD 8.7); p < 0.001). Additionally, the median WOMAC score was improved from 62.7 (SD 11.2) preoperatively to 25.7 (SD 8.2) one year postoperatively in Group I and from 64.1 (SD 10.7) to 36.2 (SD 9.7) in Group II, which were also significantly different between the groups. ConclusionsFor such special IPA patients with an increased TT-TG (>20mm), the combined operation of PFA combined with TTT can better restore the involutional relationship of patellofemoral joint and further improve the balance and function of knee joint.
The Prevalence of Insufficient Iodine Intake in Pregnancy in Africa: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Businge Charles Bitamazire , Musarurwa Hannibal Tafadzwa , Longo-Mbenza Benjamin , Kengne Andre Pascal
Published: March 2021

BackgroundFortification of foodstuffs with iodine, mainly through iodisation of salt, which commenced in several African countries after 1995 is the main method for mitigating iodine deficiency in Africa. We assessed the degree of iodine nutrition in pregnancy across Africa before and after the implementation of national iodine fortification programs (CRD42018099434).MethodsElectronic databases and grey literature were searched for baseline data before implementation of population-based iodine supplementation and for follow-up data up to September 2020. R-metamedian and metamean packages were used to pool country-specific median UIC estimates and derived mean UIC from studies with similar features. ResultsOf 54 African countries, 23 had data on iodine nutrition in pregnancy mostly from subnational samples. Data before 1995 showed that severe iodine deficiency was prevalent in pregnancy with a pooled pregnancy median UIC of 28.6 µg/L (95% CI 7.6 – 49.5). By 2005, five studies revealed a trend towards improvement in iodine nutrition state in pregnancy with a pooled pregnancy median UIC of 174.1 µg/L (95% CI 90.4 – 257.7). Between 2005 and 2020 increased numbers of national and subnational studies revealed that few African countries had sufficient, while most had mildly inadequate, and some severely inadequate iodine nutrition in pregnancy. The pooled pregnancy median UIC was 145 μg/L (95% CI 126 – 172). Conclusion Improvement in iodine nutrition status in pregnancy following the introduction of fortification of foodstuffs with iodine in Africa is sub-optimal, exposing a large proportion of pregnant women to the risk of iodine deficiency and associated disorders.
The Association Between Serum Uric Acid and the Cardiometabolic Phenotype Among Healthcare Workers in Azar Cohort Study
Authors: Somi Mohammad hossein , Frounchi Negin , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Zakavi Seyed Sina , Gilani Neda , Faramarzi Elnaz
Published: March 2021

Background: As of now, it is unknown whether hyperuricemia can be considered as an independent risk factor or just as a marker to represent the correlation between uric acid and other metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other work has been reported to study this relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) and cardiometabolic phenotypes. In this work, we intend to study the correlation between SUA and the cardiometabolic phenotype among healthcare workers in Azar cohort study. Method: In this cross-sectional study, anthropometric measurements, serum fasting blood sugar (FBS), triglyceride (TG), cholesterol, high lipoprotein density (HDL), liver enzymes, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), SUA, creatinine (Cr), and blood pressures of 1458 healthcare workers were evaluated. MetS was diagnosed based on ATP III. We classified the participants into four cardiometabolic phenotypes, i.e., metabolically-healthy lean (MHL), metabolically-unhealthy lean (MUHL), metabolically-healthy obese (MHO), and metabolically-unhealthy obese (MUHO).Results: MHL (32.6%) and MHO (66%) have the highest prevalence rate in the first and second SUA tertiles, respectively, which are statistically significant (P-value ≤0.001). We observed an ascending trend in the mean values of WC, TG, cholesterol, low HDL, FBS, BUN, Cr, SBP, DBP, BMI, and liver enzymes from the first SUA tertile to the third SUA tertile (P-value <0.05). Compared to the lowest SUA tertile, the odds of MHO and MUHO increased by 2.29 (95% CI 1.46-3.59) and 5.38 (95%CI 3.45-9.39), respectively. In contrast, no similar trend was observed regarding the association between MUHL and the SUA tertile.Conclusion: We proposed the use of the easily-measured SUA level as a marker for early diagnosis of at-risk MUHL and MHO individuals to administer proper interventions. Further prospective works are needed to identify the effects of SUA on the progression of MetS in various body size subgroups.
Livestock Movement Informs the Risk of Disease Spread in Traditional Production Systems in East Africa
Authors: Ekwem Divine , Morrison Thomas A. , Reeve Richard , Enright Jessica , Buza Joram , Shirima Gabriel , Mwajombe James K. , Lembo Tiziana , Hopcraft J. Grant C.
Published: March 2021

In Africa, livestock are important to local and national economies, but their productivity is constrained by infectious diseases. Comprehensive information on livestock movements and contacts is required to devise appropriate disease control strategies; yet, understanding contact risk in systems where herds mix extensively, and where different pathogens can be transmitted at different spatial and temporal scales, remains a major challenge. We deployed Global Positioning System collars on cattle in 52 herds in a traditional agropastoral system in western Serengeti, Tanzania, to understand fine-scale movements and between-herd contacts, and to identify locations of greatest interaction between herds. We examined contact across spatiotemporal scales relevant to different disease transmission scenarios. Daily cattle movements increased with herd size and rainfall. Generally, contact was greatest away from households, during periods with low rainfall and in locations close to dipping points. We demonstrate how movements and contacts affect the risk of disease spread. For example, contact rate was relatively sensitive to the survival time of different pathogens in the environment, and less sensitive to transmission distance, at least over the range of values that we explored. We identify times and locations of greatest disease transmission potential and that could be targeted through tailored control strategies.
Benefit of Replanning in MR-guided Online Adaptive Radiation Therapy in the Treatment of Liver Metastasis
Authors: Mayinger Michael , Ludwig Roman , Christ Sebastian M. , Bello Riccardo Dal , Ryu Alex , Weitkamp Nienke , Pavic Matea , Schüler Helena Garcia , Wilke Lotte , Guckenberger Matthias , Unkelbach Jan , Tanadini-Lang Stephanie , Andratschke Nicolaus
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To assess the effects of daily adaptive MR-guided replanning in stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) of liver metastases based on a patient individual longitudinal dosimetric analysis. Methods: Fifteen patients assigned to SBRT for oligometastatic liver metastases underwent daily MR-guided target localization and on-table treatment plan re-optimization. Gross tumor volume (GTV) and organs at risk (OARs) were adapted to the anatomy-of-the-day. A reoptimized plan (RP) and a rigidly shifted baseline plan (sBP) without re-optimization were generated for each fraction. After extraction of DVH parameters for GTV, planning target volume (PTV), and OARs (stomach, duodenum, bowel, liver, heart) plans were compared on a per-patient basis.Results: Median pre-treatment GTV and PTV were 14.9 cc (interquartile range (IQR): 7.7 – 32.85) and 62.7 cc (IQR: 42.4 – 105.5) respectively. SBRT with RP improved PTV coverage (V100%) for 47/75 of the fractions and reduced doses to the most proximal OARs (D1cc, Dmean) in 33/75 fractions compared to sBP. RP significantly improved PTV coverage (V100%) for metastases within close proximity to an OAR by 4.0 % (≤ 0.2 cm distance; n = 7; p = 0.01), but only by 0.2% for metastases farther away from OAR (> 2 cm distance; n = 7; p = 0.37). No acute grade 3 treatment-related toxicities were observed.Conclusion: MR-guided online replanning SBRT improved target coverage and OAR sparing for liver metastases with a distance of more < 2 cm to the nearest luminal OAR. Only marginal improvements in target coverage were observed for target distant to critical OARs, indicating that these patients do not benefit from daily adaptive replanning.
Impacts of English Language Proficiency on Healthcare Access, use, and Outcomes among Immigrants: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Pandey Mamata , Maina Geoffrey , Amoyaw Jonathan , Li Yiyan , Kamrul Rejina , Michaels Clara Rocha , Maroof Razawa
Published: March 2021

Background: Immigrants from culturally, ethnically, and linguistically diverse countries face many challenges during the resettlement phase, which influences their access to healthcare services and health outcomes. Healthy immigrant effect or the health advantage that immigrants arrive with is observed to deteriorate with increased length of stay in the host country. Methods: An exploratory qualitative design, following community based research approach was followed. The research team consisted of health researchers, clinicians, and community members. The objective was to explore the barriers to healthcare access among immigrants with limited English language proficiency. Three focus groups were carried out with 29 women and nine men attending English language classes at a settlement agency in a mid-sized city. Additionally, 17 individual interviews were carried out with healthcare providers caring for immigrants and refugees. Results: Thematic analysis was carried out with transcribed focus groups and healthcare provider interview data. Both the healthcare providers and the immigrants indicated that limited language proficiency often delayed access to already available healthcare services and interfered with the development of a therapeutic relationship between the client and the healthcare provider. Language barriers also impeded effective communication between healthcare providers and clients, leading to suboptimal care and dissatisfaction with the care received. Language limitations interfered with treatment adherence and the use of preventative and screening services, further delaying access to timely care, causing poor chronic disease management, and ultimately resulting in poor health outcomes. Involving untrained interpreters, family members, or others from the ethnic community was problematic due to misinterpretation and confidentiality issues. Conclusions: The study emphasises the need to provide language assistance during medical consultations to address language barriers among immigrants. The development of guidelines for recruitment, training, and effective engagement of language interpreters during medical consultation is recommended to ensure high quality, equitable and client-centered care.
A computationally designed Rituximab/CD3 T cell engager targeting CD20+ cancers with multiple mechanisms of action
Authors: Cai Wenyan , Dong Jianbo , Kankanamalage Sachith Gallolu , Titong Allison , Shi Jiadong , Jia Zhejun , Wang Bo , Huang Cai , Zhang Jing , Lin Jun , Kan Steven Z. , Zhou Joe , Liu Yue
Published: March 2021

Bispecific T cell engaging antibodies (TEAs) with one arm targeting a cancer antigen and another arm binding to CD3 have demonstrated impressive efficacy in multiple clinical studies. However, establishing a safety/efficacy balance remains challenging. For instance, some TEAs have severe safety issues. Additionally, not all patients or all cancer cells of one patient respond equally to TEAs. Here, we developed a next-generation bispecific TEA with better safety/efficacy balance and expanded mechanisms of action. Using the computer aided antibody design strategy, we replaced heavy chain complementarity-determining regions (HCDRs) in one Rituximab arm with HCDRs from a CD3 antibody and generated a novel CD20/CD3 bispecific antibody. After series of computer aided sequence optimization, the lead molecule, GB261, showed great safety/efficacy balance both in vitro and in animal studies. GB261 exhibited high affinity to CD20 and ultra-low affinity to CD3. It showed comparable T cell activation and reduced cytokine secretion compared to a benchmark antibody (BM). GB261-induced ADCC and CDC only killed CD20+ cells but not CD3+ cells. It exhibited better RRCL cell killing than the BM in a PBMC engrafted, therapeutic treatment mouse model and good safety in cynomolgus monkeys. Thus, GB261 is a promising novel TEA against CD20+ cancers.