bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of the Latest 2016 World Health Organization Recommended Frequency of Antenatal Care Contacts in Sierra Leone: a Nationally Representative Survey
Authors: Sserwanja Quraish , Musaba Milton W. , Kamara Kassim , Mutisya Linet M. , Mukunya David
Published: September 2021

Background: Timely and increased frequency of quality antenatal care (ANC) contacts is one of the key strategies aimed at decreasing maternal and neonatal deaths. In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) modified the minimum number of ANC visits from at least four to eight contacts. This study aimed to determine the proportion of women who received eight or more ANC contacts and associated factors in Sierra Leone.Methods: We used Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) 2019 data of 5,432 women aged 15 to 49 years who had a live birth within three years preceding the survey. Multistage stratified sampling was used to select study participants. We conducted multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with utilisation of eight or more ANC contacts using SPSS version 25 complex samples package. Results: Out of 5,432 women, 2,399 (44.8%) (95% CI: 43.1-45.7) had their first ANC contact in the first trimester and 1,197 (22.0%) (95% CI: 21.2-23.4) had eight or more ANC contacts. Women who had their first ANC contact after first trimester (adjusted odds ratio, aOR, 0.58, 95% CI 0.49-0.68) and women aged 15 to 19 years had a less likelihood of having eight or more contacts (aOR 0.64, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.91). Working (aOR 1.33, 95%CI 1.10 to 1.62) and wealthier women had higher odds of having eight or more contacts compared to poorer ones and those not working respectively. Women residing in the Southern region, those using internet and less parous women were associated with higher odds of having eight or more ANC contacts. Women who had no big problem obtaining permission to go health facilities also had higher odds of having eight or more ANC contacts compared to those who had big problems.Conclusion: Sierra Leone’s adoption of eight or more ANC contacts is low with less than half of the women initiating ANC in the first trimester. To ensure increased access to recommended ANC visits, timely ANC should be encouraged. Attributes of women empowerment such as workings status, socio-economic status, and decision-making should also be emphasized.
Hinge-Type FBG Acceleration Sensor Based on Double Elastic Plate
Authors: Qiu Zhongchao , Zhang Jinquan , Teng Yuntian , Gao Zhitao , Li Hong
Published: September 2021

It is critical for the health monitoring of large-scale structures such as bridge, railway and tunnel to acquire the medium-frequency and high-frequency vibration signals. To solve the problems of low sensitivity and poor transverse anti-interference of the medium-frequency and high-frequency fiber acceleration sensor, a hinge-type Fiber Bragg Grating(FBG) acceleration sensor based on double elastic plate has been proposed, and the hinge and elastic plate are used as elastomer to realize the miniaturization and transverse interference suppression of the sensor. The MATLAB and the ANSYS are used for theoretical analysis and optimization of sensor sensitivity and resonance frequency, structural static stress analysis and modal simulation analysis, while the test system is built to test the sensor performance. The results show that the resonance frequency of the sensor is 1300 Hz; the sensor has a flat sensitivity response in the middle-high frequency band of 200-800 Hz; the sensitivity is about 20 pm/g, and the fiber central wavelength drift and acceleration have good linearity and stability, while the transverse anti-interference is about 3.16%, which provides a new idea for monitoring of medium-frequency and high-frequency vibration signals in large-scale structures.
Double Row Absorbable Anchor Bridge Suture Versus Hollow Nails for Treating Acute Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fracture
Authors: zhang gan , Wu Lu , Chen Qianyong
Published: September 2021

Objective To compare the outcomes of open reduction through double row absorbable anchor bridge suture with hollow nails for acute posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture. Methods From May 2015 to May 2019, 35 patients with acute PCL avulsion fractures were treated by open reduction through double row absorbable anchor bridge suture or hollow nails. There were 15 cases in double row absorbable anchor group and 20 cases in hollow nails group. The operation time, incision length, postoperative ambulation time, hospitalization expenses, healing time of fracture and Lysholm score of patients at the last follow-up were compared between the two groups. Result All the patients in both group had operation perfromed smoothly without serious complication. The operation time in double row absorbable anchor group was (77.33±9.88) min which was longer compared to (59.75±7.86) min in the hollow nails group (p＜0.05). The hospitalization expenses indouble row absorbable anchor group was (28132±2096)yuan which was higher compared to (15904±1113) yuan in the hollow nails group (p＜0.05).The postoperative ambulation time in double row absorbable anchor group was (2.07±0.70) d which was shorter compared to (3.80±1.64) d in the hollow nails group (p＜0.05). There were no significant difference between the two groups in incision length, healing time of fracture and Lysholm score of patients at the last follow-up (p＞0.05). Conclusion Both open reduction through double row absorbable anchor bridge suture and hollow nails for acute PCL avulsion fracture have good clinical result. Double row absorbable anchor bridge suture had advantage of reliable fixation and shorter postoperative ambulation time incision length, however, hollow nails fixation had advantages of less operation time and lower hospitalization expenses.
Extra-Corporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (ECPR) for Cardiac Arrest Patients-3-Year Experience in the Era of Left Ventricular Decompression
Authors: Hsin Ho-Tsung , Chiu Kuan-Ming , Wu Ying-Chiu , Hsieh Fu-Chien , Chen Jer-Shen , Huang Jih-Hsin , Wu Mei-Ling , Chen Chieh-Fu , Cheong Kei-Ip , How Cheng-Hung
Published: September 2021

Background

Cardiac arrest has been a great threat, regardless of its occurrence in or out of the hospital (OHCA and IHCA). ECMO has been regarded as the last resort to save these endangering lives. This prospective cohort intended to clarify how ECMO-assisted CPR (ECPR) benefited patients of cardiac arrests, both OHCA and IHCA, and addressed the survival benefit of left ventricular decompression.
Methods

Consecutive patients of OHCA and IHCA, refractory to resuscitation and without certain exclusion criteria for mechanical support, were enrolled since 2018. Primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality.
Results

From 2018 Jan. to 2021 Mar., 147 patients of both OHCA and IHCA were put on ECPR. Acute coronary syndrome took 63.3%. Rate of weaning-off from ECMO/modified LVAD was 45.6%, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 67.3%. Peak serum lactate (10.9 ± 5.5 vs. 16.4 ± 7.7 mmol/L, p < 0.001) and left ventricular ejection fraction (35.8 ± 20.6% vs. 26.7 ± 21.7%, p = 0.029) during mechanical support were of prognostic significance. The low-flow time was not correlated with these two prognostic parameters and in-hospital mortality in our series. Forty-five patients with poorer left ventricular function were put on modified LVAD, which rendered survival benefit over VA-ECMO by 3 days: 1st day mortality (VA-ECMO vs modified LVAD 18.6% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.008); 3rd day (35.3% vs 17.8%, p = 0.034). The Kaplan-Meyer analysis depicted the survival benefit of modified LVAD (log-rank p = 0.024)
Conclusion

Our prospective cohort, enrolling both OHCA and IHCA patients put on ECPR, implied that fair outcomes could be achieved in both groups, as long as high quality CPR could be persistently applied, regardless of the low-flow time. Peak serum lactate and LVEF were proved again to be closely correlated to outcomes. Moreover, the procedure of LV decompression could render further survival benefit to those with poorer LV function.
Gender, Underweight and Dietary Practices Among Male and Female Adolescents in Pastoral Community, Kenya
Authors: Munga Judith , Kiige Laura , Maina-Gathigi Lucy , L'Parnoi Peter , Lengewa Catherine Mesianto , Kiplamai Festus , Kariuki Esther
Published: September 2021

Background: Many boys and girls in developing countries transition to adolescence undernourished, making them more vulnerable to disease and mortality. Growth during adolescence is faster than any other period of life leading to increased requirements for both macro- and micronutrient. High vulnerability to undernutrition has been expressed more on adolescent girls despite similar stage of growth for both males and females. This necessitates more information on gender influence on undernutrition and dietary practices especially in resource poor environments with rich cultural practices such as pastoral Samburu community in Kenya.Methods: The study design is cross sectional with both quantitative and qualitative components for in-depth understanding of the parameters in context of the target population that targeted 490 male and female adolescents based on probability proportionate to population size. Simple random sampling method was used to reach adolescent respondents in each cluster in Samburu Central sub-county. Questionnaires, in-depth interview, and Focus Group Discussion guides were used to collect data. Quantitative data was analyzed and presented descriptively as frequencies and percentages and inferentially as odds ratio, Chi-square and t-test. Content analysis was done on qualitative data and information triangulated with quantitative data for in-depth understanding of the context of study findings, Results: Low education level was observed among the adolescents where 21.9% dropped out of primary school while 21.9% completed primary education. There was no difference in gender distribution in both primary and secondary schools’ enrolment (χ2, p> 0.05). The married adolescents were more likely to be females than males (χ2, p<0.001). The adolescents aged 10-14 years were two times more likely to be underweight compared to 15–19-year-old (OR,2.101; CI,1.331-3.317; P=0.001). Males aged 15-19 years associated with underweight (χ2, p=0.049). Females had significantly higher Mean Dietary Diversity Score (MDDS) at 3.93±1.39 compared to 3.59±1.40 of their male counterparts (t-test, p=0.007). Male adolescents (59.9%) were more likely to consume less than 4 food groups compared to the 35.3% female counterparts (χ2, p<0.001). Conclusion: Adolescents are vulnerable to malnutrition that is associated to poor dietary practices and nutrient inadequacies that are further compromised by cultural gender roles that place the male adolescent at a higher risk. Culture sensitive strategies are recommended to reduce malnutrition and all its forms in this population group
Potential and Whole-genome Sequence-based Mechanism of Elongated-prismatic Magnetite Magnetosome Formation in Acidithiobacillus Ferrooxidans BYM
Authors: Zhao Dan , Yang Jiani , Zhang Guojing , Lu Dong , Zhang Shuang , Wang Weidong , Yan Lei
Published: September 2021

A magnetosome-producing bacterium Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans BYM (At. ferrooxidans BYM) was isolated and magnetically screened. The magnetosome yield from 0.5896 to 13.1291 mg/g was achieved under different aeration rates, ferrous sulfate, ammonium sulfate, and gluconic acid concentrations at 30 ℃. TEM observed 6–9 magnetosomes in size of 20–80 nm irregularly dispersed in a cell. STEM-EDXS and HRTEM-FFT implied that the elongated-prismatic magnetite magnetosomes with {110} crystal faces grown along the [111] direction. Whole-genome sequencing and annotation of BYM showed that 3.2 Mb chromosome and 47.11 kb plasmid coexisted, and 322 genes associated with iron metabolism were discovered. Ten genes shared high similarity with magnetosome genes were predicted, providing sufficient evidence for the magnetosome-producing potential of BYM. Accordingly, we first proposed a hypothetic model of magnetosome formation including vesicle formation, iron uptake and mineralization, and magnetite crystal maturation in At. ferrooxidans. These indicated that At. ferrooxidans BYM would be used as a commercial magnetosome-producing microorganism.
Non-disclosing youth: a cross sectional study to understand why young people do not disclose suicidal thoughts to their mental health professional.
Authors: McGillivray Lauren , Rheinberger Demee , Wang Jessica , Burnett Alexander , Torok Michelle
Published: September 2021

Background
Prevalence of suicidal ideation increases rapidly in adolescence, and many choose not to seek help and disclose their ideation. Young people who do disclose suicidal ideation, prefer to do so with peers and family compared to mental health professionals, who are best placed to provide evidence-based treatment. This study aimed to identify key factors associated with young people’s decision to, or not to disclose suicidal thoughts to their mental health practitioner.
Methods
A community-based sample of young Australians (16–25 years), who had experienced suicidal ideation and engaged with a mental health professional, completed an online questionnaire (N = 513) which assessed demographic characteristics, severity of depression, anxiety, psychological distress, and suicidal ideation, lifetime suicide attempts, exposure to suicide loss, personal suicide stigma, prioritisation of mental health issues, and therapeutic alliance. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with disclosure.
Results
Though the full sample had engaged in therapy, 39% had never disclosed suicidal ideation to their clinician. Those who had disclosed were more likely to report greater prioritisation of suicidal ideation (OR = 4.07, 95% CI = 2.34–7.09), therapeutic alliance (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.02–1.06), and personal suicide stigma (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01–1.06). The most common reason for not disclosing was concern that it would not remain confidential.
Conclusion
These findings provide new insights into why young people may not seek help for suicidal ideation, despite being engaged with a mental health professional, and establish evidence to inform practice decisions and the development of prevention strategies to support young people for suicide.
Upset Protrusion Joining (UPJ) Characteristics of Cast AM60 Magnesium Alloy to Join With Dissimilar Material
Authors: Andreae Nicholas , Chalasani Dharmendra , Jain Mukesh K.
Published: September 2021

Magnesium alloys have a significant benefit over the steel and aluminum alloys in manufacturing of components for many automotive and structural applications because of their extreme lightweight, low density, and high strength to weight ratio. However, one of the glaring impediments to the success of steels, aluminum, and magnesium-based multi-material integration for automotive industries is the ability to join these materials together without any cracking and corrosive damages during a performance. The present work aims to demonstrate a cost-effective, novel, and versatile joining technique, named Upset Protrusion Joining (UPJ), to mechanically and rapidly (1-2 seconds) join die-cast AM60 alloy to aluminum alloy sheet and evaluate its UPJ characteristics. Cast Mg plate has a cylindrical protrusion (11 mm diameter and 14 mm height) emanated perpendicular to its flat surface, and an aluminum sheet has a hole that accommodates the protrusion. Mg and Al alloy components are then clamped together, electrically heated, and compressed perpendicular to the protrusion axis. During compression, the protrusion expanded circumferentially to fill the hole as well as the region above the hole, and entrapped the Al sheet between the deformed (in a mushroom shape) head and the Mg plate. The effect of different UPJ process parameters such as applied current, current duration, compression loading rate, and compression distance is studied. The process demonstrated repeatability at given process conditions, and optimum process parameters were identified that produce visibly good joints (defect-free) and sufficient joint strengths when tested in the lap-shear mode under uniaxial tension. AM60 alloy showed a great promise as a candidate alloy to suit the UPJ method to adapt to automotive and other industrial manufacturing units to join with dissimilar wrought Al alloy sheets.
Robotic Transcranial Doppler in Non-Traumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Safety and Efficacy Study
Authors: Clare Kevin , Stein Alan , Damodara Nitesh , Feldstein Eric , Alshammari Hussein , Ali Syed , Kurian Christeena , Rosenberg Jon , Bauerschmidt Andrew , Kaur Gurmeen , Santarelli Justin , Hamilton Robert , Mayer Stephan , Gandhi Chirag D. , Al-Mufti Fawaz
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) secondary to vasospasm is a determinate of outcomes following non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). SAH patients are monitored using transcranial doppler (TCD) to measure cerebral blood flow velocities (CBFv). However, the accuracy and precision of manually acquired TCD can be operator dependent. The NovaGuide robotic TCD system attempts to standardize acquisition. This investigation evaluated the safety and efficacy of the NovaGuide system in SAH patients in a Neuro ICU.Methods: We retrospectively identified 48 NovaGuide scans conducted on SAH patients. Mean and maximum middle cerebral artery (MCA) CBFv were obtained from the NovaGuide and the level of agreement between CBFv and computed tomography angiography (CTA) for vasospasm was determined. Safety of NovaGuide acquisition of CBFv was evaluated based on number of complications with central venous lines (CVL) and external ventricular drains (EVD) Results: There was significant agreement between the NovaGuide and CTA (Cohen’s Kappa = 0.74) when maximum MCA CBFv ≥120 cm/s was the threshold for vasospasm. 27/48 scans were carried out with CVLs and EVDs present without negative outcomes. Conclusions: The lack of adverse events associated with EVDs/CVLs and the strong congruence between maximal MCA CBFv and CTA illustrates the diagnostic utility of the NovaGuide.
Title: Comparison of Test-Retest Reliability of Pseudo-continuous Arterial Spin Labelling (pCASL) and BOLD fMRI in a Multi-Site Study
Authors: Ibinson James W. , Gillman Andrea G. , Schmidthorst Vince , Li Conrad , Napadow Vitaly , Loggia Marco L. , Wasan Ajay D.
Published: September 2021

Background: The establishment of test-retest reliability and reproducibility (TRR) is an important part of validating any research tool, including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The primary objective of this study is to investigate the reliability of pseudo-Continuous Arterial Spin Labeling (pCASL) and Blood Oxygen Level Dependent (BOLD) fMRI data acquired across two different scanners in a sample of healthy adults. While single site/single scanner studies have shown acceptable repeatability, TRR of both in a practical multisite study occurring in two facilities spread out across the country with weeks to months between scans is critically needed.Methods: Ten subjects were imaged with similar 3T MRI scanners at the University of Pittsburgh and Massachusetts General Hospital. Finger-tapping and Resting-state data were acquired for both techniques. Analysis of the resting state data for functional connectivity was performed with the Functional Connectivity Toolbox, while analysis of the finger tapping data was accomplished with FSL. pCASL Blood flow data was generated using AST Toolbox. Activated areas and networks were identified via pre-defined atlases and dual-regression techniques. Analysis for TRR was conducted by comparing pCASL and BOLD images in terms of Intraclass correlation coefficients, Dice Similarity Coefficients, and repeated measures ANOVA.Results: Both BOLD and pCASL scans showed strong activation and correlation between the two locations for the finger tapping tasks. Functional connectivity analyses identified elements of the default mode network in all resting scans at both locations. Multivariate repeated measures ANOVA showed significant variability between subjects, but no significant variability for location. Global CBF was very similar between the two scanning locations, and repeated measures ANOVA showed no significant differences between the two scanning locations.Conclusions: The results of this study show that when similar scanner hardware and software is coupled with identical data analysis protocols, consistent and reproducible functional brain images can be acquired across sites. The variability seen in the activation maps is greater for pCASL versus BOLD images, as expected, however groups maps are remarkably similar despite the low number of subjects. This demonstrates that multi-site fMRI studies of task-based and resting state brain activity is feasible.
Natural History of Radiological Changes on CT Chest from COVID-19 Infection Rehabilitation Patients
Authors: Peng Ann
Published: September 2021

Object： To investigate the chest CT manifestations of convalescent patients with COVID-19 in recovery phase. Methods: 118 convalescent patients diagnosed as COVID-19 were followed up. According to their medical history, they were divided into 47 cases of severe disease group and 71 cases of mild disease group. Multi-slice spiral CT, high-resolution CT and pulmonary function were examined. Results: 67 rehabilitated cases are normal on CT scan. The other CT findings were: (1) ground glass opacity lesions, including: localized patchy ground glass density lesions; Multi lobes and multi-stage ground glass opacities; Diffuse ground glass opacities lesions in both lungs. (2) The interlobular interstitium and interlobular septum were thickened. (3) Subpleural arc shadow/Subpleural lines. (4) Irregular fiber cord shadow/Irregular lines. (5) Tractive bronchiectasis. (6) Nodular consolidation of air space. (7) Cavitary lesions. No obvious mediastinal lymph node enlargement and pleural effusion were found. Pulmonary imaging and pulmonary function were improved after repeated reexamination. There was significant difference in CT findings and pulmonary function indexes between severe group and mild group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The pulmonary manifestations of some convalescent patients with COVID-19 are basically normal. Ground glass density lesions are the main CT manifestations of convalescent patients, accompanied by varying degrees of pulmonary interstitial hyperplasia. The severe group had more severe pulmonary manifestations and poor pulmonary function than the mild group. With the extension of time, pulmonary lesions and pulmonary function gradually improved.
Engineering for an HPV 9-valent Vaccine using Genomic Constitutive Over-expression and Low Lipopolysaccharide Levels in Escherichia Coli Cells
Authors: Wang Kaihang , Zhou Lizhi , Chen Tingting , Li Qiong , Li Jiajia , Liu Liqin , Li Yuqian , Sun Jie , Li Tingting , Wang Yingbin , Kong Zhibo , Zheng Qingbing , Zhang Jun , Yu Hai , Gu Ying , Xia Ningshao , Li Shaowei
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe various advantages associated with the growth properties of Escherichia coli have justified their use in the production of genetically engineered vaccines. However, endotoxin contamination, plasmid vector instability, and the requirement for antibiotic supplementation are frequent bottlenecks in the successful production of recombinant proteins that are safe for industrial-scaled applications. To overcome these drawbacks, we focused on interrupting the expression of several key genes involved in the synthesis of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin frequently responsible for toxicity in recombinant proteins, to eliminate endotoxin contamination and produce better recombinant proteins with E. coli.ResultsOf 8 potential target genes associated with LPS synthesis, we successfully constructed 7 LPS biosynthesis-defective recombinant strains to reduce the production of LPS. The endotoxin residue in the protein products from these modified E. coli strains were about two orders of magnitude lower than that produced by the wild-type strain. Further, we found that 6 loci—lpxM, lpxP, lpxL, eptA, gutQ and kdsD­—were suitable for chromosomal integrated expression of HPV L1 protein. We found that a single copy of the expression cassette conferred stable expression during long-term antibiotic-free cultivation as compared with the more variable protein production from plasmid-based expression. In large-scale fermentation, we found that recombinant strains bearing 3 to 5 copies of the expression cassette had 1.5- to 2-fold higher overall expression along with lower endotoxin levels as compared with the parental ER2566 strain. Finally, we engineered and constructed 9 recombinant E. coli strains for the later production of an HPV 9-valent capsid protein with desirable purity, VLP morphology, and antigenicity. ConclusionReengineering the LPS synthesis loci in the E. coli ER2566 strain through chromosomal integration of expression cassettes has potential uses for the production of a 9-valent HPV vaccine candidate, with markedly reduced residual endotoxin levels. Our results offer a new strategy for recombinant E. coli strain construction, engineering, and the development of suitable recombinant protein drugs.
The effect of Fracture Inclination in Multiple Planes on Fracture Stability and Reoperation Risks in Femoral-Neck Fractures of Nongeriatric Patients
Authors: Jiang Dajun , Zhan Shi , Hu Hai , Zhu Hongyi , Zhang Changqing , Jia Weitao
Published: September 2021

BackgroundFor nongeriatric patients with femoral neck fractures (FNFs), internal fixation treatment is still the primary choice. Preoperative evaluation of fracture inclination and underlying stability is essential for selecting appropriate fixation strategies, thus improving clinical prognoses. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively investigate the 3-D inclination angle in both vertical and oblique planes from CT images, and its association with fracture stability and reoperation risks.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 755 FNFs patients with over two years follow-up. The 3-D inclination angle in vertical (α) and oblique plane (β) were measured based on CT images. The optimal threshold for unstable 3-D inclination were identified by seeking the highest Youden Index in predicting reoperation and validated in the biomechanical test. According to the cut-off value proposed in the diagnostic analysis, forty-two bone models were divided into seven groups, and were all fixed with traditional three parallel screws. Interfragmentary motion (IFM) was used for comparison among seven groups. The association between reoperation outcome and 3-D inclination was analysed with a multivariate model.ResultsThe overall reoperation rate was 13.2%. Unstable 3-D inclination angles with an optimally determined Youden index (0.39) included α>70°; 50°<α<70° and β>20°/ β<-20°. Biomechanical validation showed these fractures had significantly greater (p<0.05) interfragmentary motion (1.374-2.387mm vs. 0.330-0.681 mm). The reoperation rate in 3-D unstable group (32.7%) is significantly (p<0.001) higher than that in 3-D stable group (7.9%). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that 3-D inclination angle was significantly (OR=4.699, p<0.001) associated with reoperation. Conclusions﻿FNFs with α>70°; 50°<α<70° and β>20°/ β<-20° are real unstable types with significantly worse interfragmentary stability and higher reoperation risks. Fracture inclination in multiple planes is closely related to reoperation outcomes and may enhance the way FNFs are currently evaluated.
Deciphering Genetic Alterations of Taiwanese Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma With Targeted Sequencing
Authors: Huang Chi-Cheng , Liu Chih-Yi , Huang Chi-Jung , Hsu Yao-Chun , Lien Heng-Hui , Wong Jia-Uei , Tai Feng-Chuan , Ku Wen-Hui , Hung Chi-Feng , Lin Jaw-Town , Huang Ching-Shui , Chiang Han-Sun
Published: September 2021

Purpose Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC) is the 8th leading cause of cancer-related death in Taiwan, and its incidence is increasing. The development of PAC involves successive accumulation of multiple genetic alternations. Understanding the molecular pathogenesis and heterogeneity of PAC may facilitate personalized treatment for PAC and identify therapeutic agents.Materials and Methods We performed next-generation sequencing (NGS) with targeted panels to explore the molecular changes underlying PAC in Taiwan. The Ion Torrent Oncomine Comprehensive Panel (OCP) was used for PAC metastatic lesions, and more PAC samples were sequenced with the Ion AmpliSeq Cancer Hot Spot (CHP) v2 panel.ResultsFive fresh-frozen paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens were successfully assayed with the OCP, and KRAS was the most prevalent alternation, which might contraindicate the use of anti-EGFR therapy. One PAC patient harbored a FGFR2 p.C382R mutation, who might derive benefit from FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Additional 38 samples assayed with CHP v2 showed 113 hotspot variants, corresponding to 54 COSMID IDs. The most frequently mutated genes were TP53, KRAS, HRAS, and PDGFRA, (29, 23, 14, 10 hotspot variants), impacting 11, 23, 14, and 10 PAC patients. Highly pathogenic variants including COSM22413 (PDGFRA, FATHMM predicted score: 0.88), COSM520, COSM521, COSM518 (KRAS, FATHMM predicted score: 0.98) were reported.ConclusionsBy using NGS with targeted panel, somatic mutations with therapeutic potential were identified. The combination of clinical and genetic information is useful for decision making and precise selection of targeted medicine.
Ultrahigh-temperature film capacitors via homo/heterogeneous interfaces
Authors: Liu Ming , Lu Rui , Shen Zhonghui , Ma Chunrui , Duan Tingzhi , Lu Lu , Hu Guangliang , Hu Tian-Yi , You Caiyin , Mi Shaobo , Jia Chun-Lin , Chen Long-Qing
Published: September 2021

High-performance dielectric capacitors are in high demand for advanced electronics and electric power systems. They possess high power density (on the order of Megawatt) and exhibit ultrafast charge/discharge capability (on a microsecond scale) and long-term storage lifetime1-5, and thus they are particularly demanded in pulse power systems such as high-power microwaves, hybrid electric vehicles, and high-frequency inverters. However, their relatively low operating temperature limits their widespread applications6-9. Here, guided by phase-field simulations, we synthesized capacitors with an energy storage density of 55.4 joules per cubic centimeter, energy efficiency of over 82%, and superior thermal stability and fatigue properties at record high operating temperature of 400°C. These ultrahigh-temperature performances are achieved through a relatively simple method of introduction and engineering of interfaces within the capacitors, which greatly improve their high-temperature stability, relaxation behavior, and breakdown strength. Our work not only successfully fabricated capacitors with potential applications in high-temperature electric power systems and electronic technologies but also opens up a promising and general route for designing high-performance electrostatic capacitors through interface engineering.
Waist Circumference and Mortality or Cardiovascular Events in a General Korean Population
Authors: Song Do Kyeong , Hong Young Sun , Sung Yeon-Ah , Lee Hyejin
Published: September 2021

Obesity is associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, body mass index (BMI) has a limited ability to measure abdominal obesity. We aimed to evaluate the associations between waist circumference (WC) and mortality or CVD incidence in a general Korean population. We analyzed a total of 204,068 adults older than 40 years of age who had undergone a national health examination in the Korean National Health Insurance Service Cohort. Hazard ratios for death and CVD incidence were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models after adjustment for age, smoking, alcohol consumption status, levels of physical activity, total cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus status. In men, WC and overall mortality showed a reverse J-shaped association. For both men and women, WC was not associated with risk of cardiovascular mortality. Contrary to mortality trend, CVD incidence was positively associated with WC in both men and women, and risk of the CVD incidence was the lowest in subjects with a WC < 80 cm. WC exhibited a significant J-shaped association with overall mortality in men. The risk of incident CVD showed a positive association with central obesity, where the lowest risk was observed for subjects in the lowest WC group in a general Korean population.
Online Identification of Lithium-ion Battery Model Parameters with Initial Value Uncertainty and Measurement Noise
Authors: Du Xinghao , Meng Jinhao , Liu Kailong , Zhang Yingmin , Wang Shunli , Peng Jichang , Liu Tianqi
Published: September 2021

Online parameter identification is essential for the accuracy of the battery Equivalent Circuit Model (ECM). The traditional Recursive Least Squares (RLS) method is easily biased with the noise disturbances from sensors, which degrades the modeling accuracy in practice. Meanwhile, the Recursive Total Least Squares (RTLS) method can deal with the noise interferences, but the parameter slowly converges to the reference with initial value uncertainty. To alleviate the above issues, this paper proposes a co-estimation framework utilizing the advantages of RLS and RTLS for a higher parameter identification performance of the battery ECM. RLS converges quickly by updating the parameters along the gradient of the cost function. RTLS is applied to attenuate the noise effect once the parameters have converged. Both simulation and experimental results prove that the proposed method has good accuracy, fast convergence rate, and also robustness against noise corruption.
Fusion capacity after the implantation of interspinous fusion device - a biomechanical analysis and preliminary histological evaluation in pigs
Authors: Bao Li , Chen Mengmeng , Ji Xiang , Sun Qinchao , Tang Hai
Published: September 2021

BackgroudThe interspinous fusion device (ISFD) was widely used in the degenerative lumbar diseases. Previous clinical studies have demonstrated favorable efficacy. To further explore interspinous fusion capacity after ISFD implantation, we performed biomechanical analysis and preliminary histological evaluation.MethodsTwelves experimental pigs were selected and accepted a simulated operation of ISDF implantation. The animals were grouped six groups based on different procedures: sham surgery; unilateral laminotomy (UL); bilateral laminotomy (BL); ISFD + intact; ISFD + UL; ISFD + BL. The graft-bed site was filled with purified bone graft material without any autograft bone. After six months feeding, all experimental animals were sacrificed and the corresponding lumbar vertebrae was obtained. The samples were fixed on the spinal test system and the motion range of flexion-extension, lateral bending and rotation were tested through a multiaxial robotic system. The samples were prepared to cut using a hard tissue-slicing machine. Then, tissue sections stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and toluidine blue were observed to evaluate the new-bone formation.ResultsLaminotomy increased lumbar mobility in comparison with intact model, especially for BL. The implantation of ISDF can reduce the range of motion in all motion directions. Well-defined bone tissue can be observed in the histological images after 6 months. In the histological part of toluidine blue staining, the area of newly formed bone accounted for 8.721%. The hyperchromatic osteoblasts cells and density bone tissue can be observed in HE staining slides.ConclusionsThe interspinous osteogenesis in histology confirmed the possibility of interspinous fusion. Moreover, the implantation of ISDF provide the necessary stabilization for promoting fusion.
High Magnetoelectric Coupling of Metglas and P(VDF-TrFE) Laminates
Authors: Staaf Henrik , Sawatdee Anurak , Rusu Cristina , Nilsson David , Schäffner Philipp , Johansson Christer
Published: September 2021

Magnetoelectric (magnetic/piezoelectric) heterostructures bring new functionalities to develop novel transducer devices such as (wireless) sensors or energy harvesters and thus have been attracting research interest in the last years. We have studied the magnetoelectric coupling between Metglas films (2826MB) and poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)) in a laminate structure. The metallic Metglas film itself served as bottom electrode and as top electrode we used an electrically conductive polymer, poly(3,4-ethylene-dioxythiophene): poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). Besides a direct electrical wiring via a graphite ink, a novel contactless readout method is presented using a capacitive coupling between the PEDOT: PSS layer and an electrode not in contact with the PEDOT:PSS layer. From the experimental result we determined a magnetoelectric coupling of 1445 V/(cm×Oe) at the magnetoelastic resonance of the structure, which is among the highest reported values for laminate structures of a magnetostrictive and a piezoelectric polymer layer. With the noncontact readout method, a magnetoelectric coupling of about 950 V/(cm×Oe) could be achieved, which surpasses previously reported values for the case of direct sample contacting. 2D laser Doppler vibrometer measurements in combination with FE simulations were applied to reveal the complex vibration pattern resulting in the strong resonant response.
Analysis of Related Factors Influencing the Efficacy of Extracorporeal Shockwave in the Treatment of Fracture Nonunion: A Prospective Study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Li Ang , Wang Rui , Yu Shiyang , Huang Jinghuan , Jiang Lixin , Li Xiaolin
Published: September 2021

Background: Extracorporeal shockwave is recommended as the first choice for the treatment of fracture nonunion, However, some patients with fracture nonunion have poor response to extracorporeal shockwave therapy. The present study aimed to investigate related factors which may affect the clinical efficacy of extracorporeal shockwave on fracture nonunion. Methods: Ultrasound examination was applied to observe nonunion gap, local blood supply, hardness of callus and hematoma formation before and after extracorporeal shockwave therapy. The patient's condition was followed up for 12 months after extracorporeal shockwave therapy. Four correlations and regression analysis methods were applied to analyze the factors which were correlated the clinical efficacy of extracorporeal shockwave. Receiver-operating characteristic analysis revealed that the cut-off of the fracture nonunion gap was 4.200 mm and the cut-off of the hardness of callus/impulse energy was 2.555. Single factor linear correlation analysis, multi-factor linear regression analysis, single-factor logistic regression analysis were applied. Results: The four ultrasound signs were significantly correlated with extracorporeal shockwave therapy: nonunion gap (r = -0.723; OR = 3.074), local blood supply (r = 0.611; OR = 0.191), hardness of callus/impulse energy (r = -0.510; OR = 19.942), and hematoma formation (r = 0.722; OR = 0.015). Conclusions: Nonunion gap larger than 4.200 mm and hardness of callus/impulse energy larger than 2.555 are risk factors of extracorporeal shockwave therapy outcome, and good local blood supply and effective hematoma formation induced by extracorporeal shockwave therapy are protective factors. By analyzing the related factors of extracorporeal shockwave therapy on fracture nonunion, clinicians may screen out the patients with fracture nonunion who are not suitable for extracorporeal shockwave therapy, and reduce the risk of fracture nonunion.
Comparison of cross-sectional area and fat infiltration of suboccipital muscles between normal dogs and dogs with atlantoaxial instability
Authors: Lee Namsoon , Yun Munsu , Yoon Junghee
Published: September 2021

Background
Atlantoaxial instability (AAI) is primarily a congenital neurological disorder affecting young toy-breed dogs. So far, most studies have focused on bones and ligaments related to AAI, and there are no studies on the suboccipital muscles (SOMs) that occupy a large area from the occipital bone to C2 in dogs. This study evaluated the cross-sectional area (CSA) and fat infiltration of the SOMs using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), specifically, T1-weighted images, in normal dogs (≤ 5 kg) and AAI dogs. The relationship between the severity of the neurological symptoms of AAI (group A and group B) and the values from MRI was also assessed.
Results
AAI dogs had significantly smaller CSA (P = 0.029) and greater fat infiltration (P = 0.044) of the SOMs compared to normal dogs. AAI dogs with mild neurological symptoms for a long period (group A) had greater fat infiltration than AAI dogs with severe neurological symptoms (group B) (P = 0.035).
Conclusions
The muscle changes are most likely due to spinal cord compression resulting from instability; however, the possibility that chronic changes of the muscle may play an additional role in maintaining stability in this region cannot be excluded. This study provides fundamental quantitative information of the SOMs in normal and AAI dogs.
Numerical Assessment of Coastal Multi-hazard Vulnerability in Tokyo Bay
Authors: Liu Fei , Chen Jundong , Wang Yulong
Published: September 2021

Many bays in the world are threatened by coastal hazards such as storm surge, river flood and tsunami. Since most of the existing studies have been focused on one or two of them, in this study, the assessment of coastal vulnerability caused by the three hazards was the research target. Inundation simulation is a widely used and straightforward way in coastal vulnerability assessments; however, it is computationally expensive, and considering an increase in the number of cases in multi-hazard analysis, an efficient method was proposed using an estimated overflow volume without computing inundation, which was validated by comparing with inundation simulation. It shows that when free overflow is dominant, this method is consistent with inundation simulation approach. Using Tokyo Bay as a study area, the efficient method was then applied to multi-hazard vulnerability assessment. By comparing the overflow volume maps and maximum anomaly distribution along the coasts for four types of hazards (worst storm surge; worst concurrent storm surge and river flood; worst concurrent storm surge, river flood and Tokai-Tonankai earthquake tsunami; worst concurrent storm surge, river flood and Tokyo inland earthquake tsunami), we investigated the characteristics of different types of hazards and identified the difference between single hazard and multi-hazards. The characteristic of overflow volume along the coasts is similar to that of maximum anomaly distribution, especially for only storm surge case, the multi-hazard case combining storm surge and river flood, and the multi-hazard case combining storm surge, Tokyo inland earthquake tsunami and river flood. However, for multi-hazard case combining storm surge, Tokai-Tonankai earthquake tsunami and river flood, only by the maximum anomaly distribution, it cannot reflect the real overflow volume condition. For only storm surge case and multi-hazard case combining storm surge and river flood, the head of the bay suffers the highest vulnerability while for multi-hazard cases combining storms surge, tsunami and river flood, the difference of vulnerability in the north and south of the bay is not significant. The difference of superposing method and concurrent method for computing multi-hazards was also compared. It was found that the linear superposing method tends to overestimate the total water elevation in coastal region; however, in the coasts where superposing method underestimates the multi-hazard anomalies, upgrading dikes needs to be considered by policymakers.
TLR7/8-Agonist-Loaded M1-Macrophage-Derived Nanovesicles Promote the Polarization of Macrophages to Enhance Bladder Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Qing , Lin Tingsheng , Zhang Wenlong , Ding Yuanzhen , Wang Xiaofeng , Lu Wenfeng , Cao Wenmin , Wang Tingzheng , Chen Wei , Guo Hongqian
Published: September 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), such as PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies, modulate the cancer killing function of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, immunosuppressive M2-type tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are abundant in bladder cancer (BC) and able to release substances such as cytokines to promote tumor growth, evade immune cell attack and lead to tumor ICIs treatment resistance. In the present study, we utilized nanovesicles derived from M1 macrophages, which contained constituents of M1 macrophages (M1 NV), and loaded the vesicles with the TLR7/8 agonist R848, a potent driver of M1 macrophages to construct M1 NV-R848 nanovesicles. Compared with M1 NV or R848 treatment alone, M1 NV-R848 was able to induce polarization of M2 macrophages into M1 macrophages more efficient both in vitro and in vivo. Intravenous injection of M1 NV-R848 improved the immunosuppressive TME and inhibited tumor growth and no significantly toxic or immunogenic in MB-49 tumor-bearing mice. In addition, compared with M1 NV-R848 treatment alone, combined injection of M1 NV-R848 and PD-L1 was able to further inhibit MB-49 tumor growth. Thus, our study demonstrates that M1 NV-R848 has the ability to promote the polarization of M2 TAMs to M1 macrophages and to enhance the efficacy of the ICIs PD-L1 in the treatment of UBC with no significantly toxic or immunogenic.
An In-vitro evaluation of a polyherbal formulation, against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Kanchibhotla Divya , Subramanian Saumya , Reddy Ravi , K.R. Hari Venkatesh , Pathania Monika
Published: September 2021

Background: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 is one of the major health crisis that has affected the world in the past century. With the emergence of new strains of viruses and antimicrobial resistance, the world is looking for an alternate therapeutic option to fight infectious disease.Objective: The present study evaluated the efficacy of a novel polyherbal formulation, named NOQ19, against SARS-CoV-2 in an in vitro setting. NOQ 19 is an unique blend of 13 Ayurvedic herbs.Methodology: Vero E6 (CL1008), the African green monkey kidney epithelial cell, were infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus (isolate USA-WA1/2020) in a 96 well-plate. NOQ19 test material was diluted in different concentration as follows 0.05mg/ml, 0.1mg/ml, 0.2mg/ml, 0.3mg/ml, 0.4mg/ml, 0.5mg/ml, 0.6mg/ml, 0.7mg/ml, 0.8mg/ml and 0.9mg/ml. These different concentrations of NOQ19 were added to infected cells respectively and incubated for 3 days in 5% CO2 incubator. Remdesivir was used as a positive control.The cells were finally fixed with formaldehyde, stained with crystal violet and plaques were visualized. The number of plaques were counted to determine the PFU(plaque forming units)/mL.Results: Results demonstrated 100% antiviral efficacy of NOQ19 at 0.9mg/ml concentration with complete elimination of the virus. The IC50 of the drug was found to be 0.2mg/ml. The results of the present study demonstrated viral load reduction in SARS- CoV-2 infected Vero E6 cell lines.Conclusion: The result along with clinical trials could propose NOQ19 as a potential therapeutic option in the fighting the COVID-19 challenge.