bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Final Report on Clinical Outcomes and Tumor Recurrence Patterns of a Pilot Study Assessing Efficacy of Belinostat (PXD-101) With Chemoradiation for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma
Authors: Xu Karen , Ramesh Karthik , Huang Vicki , Gurbani Saumya S , Cordova J Scott , Schreibmann Eduard , Weinberg Brent D , Sengupta Soma , Voloschin Alfredo D , Holdhoff Matthias , Barker Peter B , Kleinberg Lawrence R , Olson Jeffrey J , Shu Hui-Kuo G , Shim Hyunsuk
Published: June 2021

PurposeGlioblastoma (GBM) is highly aggressive with poor prognosis. Belinostat is a histone deacetylase inhibitor with blood–brain barrier permeability, anti-GBM activity, and potential to enhance chemoradiation. The purpose of this clinical trial was to assess the clinical efficacy of combining belinostat with standard-of-care therapy for GBMs. Methods13 patients were enrolled in each of the control and belinostat cohorts. The belinostat cohort was given a belinostat regimen (500-750 mg/m2 1x/day x 5 days) every 3 weeks (weeks 0, 3, and 6 of RT). All patients received temozolomide and radiation therapy (RT). RT margins of 5-10 mm were added to generate clinical tumor volumes and 3 mm added to create planning target volumes. Patient outcomes included progression-free survival, overall survival (OS), and recurrence pattern analysis of enhancing tumor (rGTV). ResultsMedian OS was 15.8 months for the control cohort and 18.5 months for the belinostat cohort (p=0.53). The rGTVs in the control cohort occurred in areas that received higher radiation doses than that in the belinostat cohort. For those belinostat patients who experienced out-of-the field recurrence, tumors were detectable by spectroscopic MRI before RT. ConclusionThe median OS was slightly longer for the belinostat cohort than the control cohort but not statistically significant. Recurrence analysis suggests better in-field control with belinostat, suggesting a radio-sensitizing effect. This study highlights the potential of belinostat as a synergistic therapeutic agent for GBM treatment. It may be particularly beneficial to combine this radio-sensitizing effect with spectroscopic MRI-guided radiation therapy.
Computational Method for Solving Weakly Singular Fredholm Integral Equations of the Second Kind using an Advanced Barycentric Lagrange Interpolation Formula
Authors: Shoukralla Emil , Saber Nermin , Sayed Ahmed Yehia
Published: June 2021

In this study, we applied an advanced barycentric Lagrange interpolation formula to find the interpolate solutions of weakly singular ‎Fredholm integral equations of the ‎second kind. The kernel is ‎interpolated twice concerning ‎both variables and then is transformed into the product of five ‎matrices; two of them are monomial basis ‎matrices. To isolate the singularity of the kernel, we ‎developed two techniques based on a good choice of ‎different two sets of nodes to be distributed ‎over the integration domain. Each set is specific to one of the ‎kernel arguments so that the kernel ‎values never become zero or imaginary. The significant advantage of the ‎two presented ‎techniques is the ability to gain ‎‎access to an algebraic linear system equivalent to the interpolant solution without applying the collocation method. Moreover, the convergence in the ‎mean of the interpolant solution ‎and the maximum error norm estimation are studied. The ‎interpolate solutions of the illustrated four ‎examples are found strongly converging uniformly to the ‎exact solutions.
Autoimmune Hemolysis Anemia After Dihydroartemisinin and Piperaquine for Uncomplicated Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria
Authors: louvois marion , Simon Loic , Pomares Christelle , Jeandel P-Y. , Demonchy Elisa , Carles Michel , Delaunay Pascal , Courjon Johan
Published: June 2021

BackgroundMalaria is still an endemic disease in Africa with many imported cases in Europe. The standard treatment is intravenous artesunate for severe malaria and oral artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) for uncomplicated malaria. Delayed hemolytic anemia (DHA) after intravenous artesunate has been extensively described and guidelines recommend a biological monitoring until one month after the end of the treatment. The link with an autoimmune process is unsure. Nevertheless, cases with positive direct antiglobulin test (DAT) have been reported. Conversely, DHA is not recognized as an adverse effect of oral ACT. Previously, only two cases of DHA occurring after oral ACT without intravenous artesunate administration have been reported. Case presentationWe report the case of a 42 year old man returning from Togo. He was treated with dihydroartemisinin / piperaquine combination for an uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Nine days after the end of the treatment he developed hemolytic anemia with positive DAT. Eventually, the patient recovered after corticotherapy. ConclusionThis is the first case report of autoimmune hemolytic anemia after treatment with dihydroartemisinin and piperaquine.
Mid-term Impacts of Silvicultural Treatments on Soils and Understory Plant Diversity in Temperate Hardwood Forests of Quebec, Canada.
Authors: Jaeger Romain , Delagrange Sylvain , Aubin Isabelle , Joanisse Gilles , Raymond Patricia , Rivest David
Published: June 2021

Background: Short-term effects of silvicultural treatments on soil properties and understory vegetation in temperate hardwood forests are well documented, but few studies have examined longer term effects of treatment intensity. We hypothesized that short-term effects of silvicultural treatments on understory plant diversity do persist over the medium-term (20 years after treatment); the magnitude of these effects would be proportional to the intensity of canopy and soil disturbance.Methods: Soil properties (pH, total C and N, extractable P, exchangeable bases) and understory community diversity indices were measured in six experimental sites along a longitudinal gradient that covered different climatic and edaphic conditions in the yellow birch-sugar maple bioclimate domain. Reference condition, i.e. control forest with no anthropogenic disturbance for at least 80 years (CON) were compared to twenty years old regeneration treaments representing a gradient of canopy and soil disturbance intensity: single-tree selection cuts (SIN); group-selection cuts (GRP); and group-selection cuts with scarification (GRPS). Results: Geographic location of sites explained more variation in soil properties and community composition than did treatments. Species richness in both group-selection treatments was higher than that in CON forests. However, understory plant equitability and beta diversity among sites in GRP and GRPS were lower than in SIN and CON forests. More intense treatments (GRP and GRPS) increased the relative occurrence of vegetatively reproducing heliophilic plants, a trait syndrome associated with adaptations to disturbed environments. These treatments also contributed to the medium-term persistence of recalcitrant competitor species (e.g., Rubus idaeus, Prunus pensylvanica) whereas soil scarification appears to have negative sustained effects on species known to be sensitive to regeneration treatments (e.g. Monotropa uniflora, Dryopteris spinulosa).Conclusion: Of the treatments studied, single-tree selection cutting appears to be the most appropriate silvicultural treatment for maintaining soil functions and heterogeneous understory plant communities with compositions and structures similar to natural forests, while more intense treatments rather maintain and expand species that are better adapted to a wider range of environmental conditions, including open environments.
Molecular Insights into Tumor Targeted Therapy by Carrier-Free Lycorine Nanoparticles in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Zhou Shiyue , Qiu Yuling , Liu Rui , Yin Shuangshuang , Shao Yingying , Wu Song , Chen Qian , Wang Tao , Du Bo , Yu Haiyang
Published: June 2021

Lycorine (Ly) is a promising natural compound with extensive antitumor activities. However, due to poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability, the research and development of Ly anticancer drugs has been greatly restricted. Recently, the carrier-free nanoparticles have emerged as an outstanding drug delivery system. In this study, we prepared a DSPE-PEG modifying Ly nanoparticle (DS-Ly NPs) to overcome these drawbacks. We find that compared with Ly, DS-Ly NPs can significantly inhibit cell viability. Meanwhile, DS-Ly NPs treatment results in higher promotion of apoptotic and autophagic capacities, as well as inhibition of migration and invasion. Furthermore, DS-Ly NPs exhibits a better antitumor effect in AOM/DSS induced colorectal tumors and orthotopic hepatocellular tumors than Ly in repression of multiple oncogenic processes, which may benefit from the advantages of carrier-free nanoparticle. Beside, we showed that DS-Ly NPs can prolong the blood circulation time better than Ly. Taken together, these results have demonstrated that carrier-free nanoparticle provides a new therapeutic strategy for treating cancer.
The Trend of Combined Modality Treatment and its Outcomes in Elderly Patients With Primary CNS Lymphoma; A 12-Year Population-Based Analysis Using Propensity Score
Authors: Samhouri Yazan , Ali Moaath K Mustafa , Jayakrishnan Thejus , Bakalov Veli , Fazal Salman , Khan Cyrus , Wegner Rodney E , Lee Seung Tae , Lister John
Published: June 2021

BackgroundThe addition of radiation to chemotherapy in elderly patients with PCNSL remains controversial. Our objective was to assess the trend of combined modality treatment (CMT) and compare its survival with chemotherapy alone and radiation alone in non-HIV patients. MethodsWe identified 6,537 patients who received single treatment modality, combined modality treatment, or no treatment at all between 2004 and 2015 from the National Cancer Database. Factors affecting treatment selection were investigated using a logistic regression model. Annual percentage change (APC) was calculated to assess the trend of CMT use. A propensity score weighting methodology was used to compare survival outcomes. FindingsOnly 12.8% of patients received CMT, and this proportion steadily declined between 2004 (17.7%) and 2015 (8.7%), with APC of -6.0% (95% CI -8.0 to -4.0, p-value <0.001) during the 12 years. Apart from classical prognostic factors (age and comorbidities), treatment selection was significantly influenced by sex, facility type, degree of urbanization, and type of insurance. CMT had improved survival (median overall survival 19.5 months (95% CI 15.7-22.8)) compared with single-modality treatment. This effect was more prominent in the first year. Conclusion Socioeconomic factors affect the selection of treatment in elderly patients with PCNSL that can alter outcomes. CMT is falling out of favor in this patient population due to the risks of neurotoxicity. Further work should focus on developing strategies that minimize toxicity and access disparities without compromising survival
Development of Process and Data Centric Inference System for Enhanced Production of L-Asparaginase From Halotolerant Bacillus Licheniformis PPD37
Authors: Patel Payal , Gosai Haren B , Panseriya Haresh , Dave Bharti
Published: June 2021

The present study aims at bioengineering of medium components using – data and process centric approaches for enhanced production of L-asparaginase, an important biological molecule, by halotolerant Bacillus licheniformis PPD37 strain. To achieve this, first significant medium components were screened followed by optimization of a combination of media components and culture conditions such as L-asparagine, MgSO4, NaCl, pH and temperature. Optimization study was carried out using statistical models such as response surface methodology (RSM) – process centric and artificial neural network (ANN) – data centric approaches. The production improved from 2.86 U/mL to 17.089 U/mL, an increase of approximately 6-times of the unoptimized L-asparaginase production. On comparing RSM and ANN models for optimised L-asparaginase production based on R2 value, mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute deviation (MAD) values, the ANN model emerged as the superior one. As this is the first report to the authors best knowledge on development of inference system using RSM and ANN models for enhanced L-asparaginase production using a halotolerant bacteria, this study could lead to more in-depth and large-scale L-asparaginase production.
Kinematics Model Approach to Energy Efficiency in Sustainable Manufacturing
Authors: He Bin , Xu Fuze , Zhang Pengchang
Published: June 2021

As the energy efficiency is a worldwide topic for sustainability in sustainable manufacturing, the industry ought to undertake the responsibility in a low-energy manner. For energy efficiency, this paper proposed a novel lightweight Non-holonomic Spherical Underactuated Robot (NSUR) with lower energy consumption and fewer actuators than traditional robotics. The kinematics of a robot refers the motion analysis, such as coordinates, velocity, and acceleration. However, current researches always focus on the holonomic full-actuated robot. This paper is devoted to a kind of novel NSUR and its theoretical kinematics analysis model. After NSUR was introduced, the kinematic representation of NSUR was discussed. A pair inverse and forward kinematics analysis of NSUR was put forward in detail. The kinematic analysis of joint of underactuated robot, as the application of NSUR, is applied to explain and verify this methodology. The measurements and comparisons of energy efficiency between NSUR and traditional robotics are also derived in detail.
A Procedure for Dex-induced Gene Transactivation in Arabidopsis Ovules
Authors: Schubert Jasmin , Li Yanru , Mendes Marta A. , Dickinson Hugh , Baroux Célia
Published: June 2021

Background: Elucidating the genetic and molecular control of plant reproduction requires the deployment of functional approaches based, for instance, on reverse or forward genetic screens. The loss-of-function of essential genes, however, may lead to plant lethality prior to reproductive developmentt or to the formation of sterile structures before the organ-of-interest can be analysed. In these cases, inducible approaches that enable a spatial and temporal control of the genetic perturbation are extremely valuable. Genetic induction in reproductive organs, such as the ovule, deeply embedded in the flower, is a delicate procedure that requires both optimization and validation. Results: Here we report on a streamlined procedure enabling reliable induction of gene expression in Arabidopsis ovule and anther tissues using the popular pOP/LhGR Dex-inducible system. We demonstrate its efficiency and reliability using fluorescent reporter proteins and histochemical detection of the GUS reporter gene. Conclusion: The pOP/LhGR system allows for a rapid, efficient and reliable induction of transgenes in developing ovules without compromising developmental progression. This approach opens new possibilities for the functional analysis of candidate regulators in sporogenesis and gametogenesis, which are otherwise affected by early lethality of conventional, stable mutants.
Missed Nursing Care in Intensive Care Patients Subjected to Interhospital Capacity Transfers: A Retrospective Matched Case–Control Chart Review
Authors: Karlsson Jonas , Fridh Isabell , Schildmeijer Kristina , Hagiwara Magnus Andersson
Published: June 2021

Background The number of patients undergoing an interhospital intensive care unit-to-unit capacity transfer has dramatically increased. These transfers are complex, pose a risk for the patients and have been linked to increased intensive care unit length of stay and mortality, but the reasons for this are not known. We hypothesised that there was a difference in the incidence of missed nursing care among patients subjected to capacity transfer compared with patients not subjected to any transfer during their intensive care stay. Methods A retrospective case–control chart review was conducted on adult patients who between January 1, 2009, and January 31, 2020, underwent an interhospital intensive care unit-to-unit capacity transfer. We applied a matched control group by 1:2 matching. Missed nursing care was based on four variables: mobilisation, tooth brushing, oral care and nutrition. Data were retrieved from the local database and the patient’s medical charts at two general level 3 ICUs. Results The case group (n = 63) received significantly less mobilisation ( p < 0.05), mean 5.94 (2.36), compared with the control group (n = 126), mean 7.74 (2.96). In a subanalysis of the patients treated with invasive positive pressure ventilation and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation, the case group (n = 56) was found to receive significantly less oral care ( p < 0.05), median 3.50 (1.00–6.00), compared with the control group (n = 80), median 5.00 (2.00–7.75). None of the other variables were significantly related to interhospital intensive care unit-to-unit capacity transfers. Conclusion In critically ill patients, interhospital intensive care unit-to-unit capacity transfers were associated with missed nursing care. Future studies, focusing on capacity transfers should consider missed nursing care when the causes of increased intensive care unit length of stay and mortality are to be investigated.
Evaluation of Antioxidant And Anti-Ulcerogenic Effects of Eremurus Persicus (Jaub & Spach) Boiss Leaf Hydroalcoholic Extract On Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer In Rats
Authors: Beiranvand Mohammad , Bahramikia Seifollah , Dezfoulian Omid
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and protective effect of Eremurus persicus (Jaub & Spach) leaf hydroalcoholic extract (EPE) in preventing gastric ulcers induced by ethanol in rats. Wistar rats weighing 180-220 g were randomly divided into five groups, included normal group, ethanol consumption group, ranitidine treatment experienced group, the recipient rats prepared by dose of 250 mg/kg plant extract, and the last group recipient the dose of 500 mg/kg plant extract. The gastric ulcer was induced by feeding 1 ml of 96% ethanol to each animal. The gastric ulcer index (UI), pH, oxidative stress parameters, and histopathological changes in all stomachs were measured. Pre-treatment of ethanol-induced rats with the EPE reduced (P<0.05) the ulcer index and gastric juice pH, compared to ethanol intake rats. Additionally, pre-treatment with EPE at a dose-dependent manner alleviated the gastric oxidative stress injury in rats by increasing CAT activity, tissue NO• and GSH levels. EPE also was able to decrease the levels of ROS, MDA, PCO and serum NO•. According to the results, it can be concluded that pre-treatment with EPE prevents the formation of gastric ulcers caused by ethanol, which can be attributed to the antioxidant activity of plant polyphenols compounds.
Stratification At The Health District Level And Targeting of Malaria Control Interventions In Mali
Authors: Cissoko Mady , Magassa Mahamadou , Sanogo Vincent , Ouologuem Abdoulaye , Sangaré Lansana , Diarra Modibo , Bationo Cedric Stephane , Dolo Amagoron dit Mathias , Bah Mamadou D. , Doumbia Sidy , Coulibaly Mamadou B. , Traoré Diahara , Sidibé Boubacar , Noor Abdisalan M. , Cissé Idrissa , Sacko Moussa , Gaudart Jean , Sagara Issaka
Published: June 2021

IntroductionMalaria has been the leading cause of morbidity and mortality for several decades in Mali, with an increase from 2017 to 2020 (2,884,837 confirmed cases and 1,454 deaths). On the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO) and in the interests of efficient use of resources, Mali has begun a process of stratifying the health districts to target malaria control strategies.MethodMalaria, entomological and environmental data were collected through the local health information system (LHIS), the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS 2018), research institutions and MALI-METEO services. The WHO has recommended stratification at the district level consisted of assigning each district to one of 4 classes according to criteria based on incidence adjusted for attendance rate. Variables associated with monthly malaria incidence at the district level were identified using a general additive non-linear regression model.ResultsFrom 2017 to 2019, the median incidence across 75 health districts of Mali was 129.34 cases per 1,000 person-year (IQR=86.48). The results showed different periods of high malaria transmission in health districts level and durations varying from 2 to 6 months, showing a double peak for some health districts, which were located in the flooded areas. environmental variables such as rainfall, vegetation index (NDVI), maximum temperature and relative humidity were significantly associated at malaria incidence with a lag of around one month. A strata defines a geographical area with similar epidemiological, environmental and socio-economic factors. Stratification resulted in 12 health districts of very low transmission, 19 low transmission, 20 moderate transmission and 24 in high transmission areas. The number of rounds of season malaria chemoprevention will be based on the number of months in the high transmission period.ConclusionThis first stratification in Mali will allow targeting malaria control strategies. This approach will be dynamic and revised yearly in order to integrate information from the national epidemiological surveillance.
Anonymous Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Sleep Disorders in Shift Workers – A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Retzer Lukas , Feil Monika , Reindl Richard , Richter Kneginja , Lehmann Robert , Stemmler Mark , Gräßel Elmar
Published: June 2021

Background: Many shift workers suffer from sleep issues, which negatively affect quality of life and performance. Scientifically evaluated, structured programs for prevention and treatment are scarce. We developed an anonymous online cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) program. After successful completion of a feasibility study, we now start this prospective, randomized, controlled superiority trial to compare outcomes of two parallel groups, namely an intervention group and a waiting-list control-group. Additionally, we will compare these outcomes to those of a face-to-face CBT-I outpatient sample.Methods: Collaborating companies will offer our anonymous online intervention to their shift-working employees. Company physicians and counseling services will screen those interested for inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants will receive access to our online service, where they will complete psychometric assessment and receive random assignment to either the intervention group or the waiting-list control group. Participants and providers will be aware of the group assignment. We aim to allocate at least N = 60 participants to the trial. The intervention consists of psychoeducation, sleep restriction, stimulus control, relaxation techniques, and individual feedback delivered via four e-mail contacts. During the intervention, as well as during the waiting period, participants will fill out weekly sleep diaries. Immediately after completion of the program, the post-intervention assessment takes place. Participants in the control group will be able to participate in the program after all study assessments. To recruit an additional sample, collaborating outpatient sleep clinics will provide six sessions of standard face-to-face CBT-I to an ad-hoc sample of shift working patients. We expect both the online and the face-to-face CBT-I interventions to have beneficial effects compared to the control group on the following primary outcomes: self-reported symptoms of depression and insomnia, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness. Conclusions: The online intervention allows shift workers to follow a CBT-I program independently of their working schedule and location. Forthcoming results might contribute to further improvement of prevention and therapy of sleep issues in shift workers.
Effect of Positive Events Recording Based on Positive Psychology on Healthy Behaviours and Readmission Rate of Patients After PCI: A Study Protocol for a Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hu Yao yao , Jiang Xin , Mao Fang ying , Zhang Jing , Liu Lin , Gu Jie , Wu Qing , Wu Yin
Published: June 2021

Background: Unhealthy behaviours of coronary heart disease (CHD) patients are closely related to the occurrence of major heart events, which increases the readmission rate and brings heavy economic burden to families and society. Therefore, it is necessary for health care workers to take active preventive and therapeutic measures to keep or establish healthy behaviours of patients. Positive psychological intervention has been proved to be effective, but it has not been reported in the field of CHD in China. The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of positive events recording based on positive psychology on the healthy behaviours, readmission rate and anxiety of patients with CHD, in order to provide new ideas for the development of secondary prevention strategies for CHD.Methods: This is a prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial (RCT). The subjects will be enrolled from the Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. There are 80 cases in total, according to the random number table, the subjects are randomly divided into the intervention group (n=40) and the control group (n=40). The patients in the intervention group will receive the intervention of recording positive events once a week for 3 months, while the patients in the control group receive conventional nursing, and each group will be followed up for 6 months. The primary outcomes will include healthy behaviours, readmission rate and anxiety, the secondary outcomes will include psychological capital, subjective well-being and corresponding clinical laboratory indicators. The protocol was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Soochow University (approval No. SUDA20200604H01) and is performed in strict accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki formulated by the World Medical Association. All participants provide written informed consent.Discussion: This study will verify whether positive events recording based on positive psychology can make patients maintain healthy behaviours, reduce readmission rate and improve anxiety after PCI. Then, this study will provide new ideas and references for the development of secondary prevention strategies for patients with CHD. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trials Registry, 2000034538. Registered on 10 July 2020.
Ocular Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada: Is it the era of diagnosis by OCT?
Authors: Elubous Khaled , Farah Mohammed S. , Shokry Ahmed N. , Abu-Ameereh Mohammed
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE to report optical coherence tomography (OCT) changes of the retina during acute and recovery phases in a patient with atypical Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease presented for the first time with ocular symptoms and role of (OCT) in the diagnosis, following and assessing response to treatment.Methods Ophthalmologic examination, laboratory evaluation, fluorescein angiography, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography performed on a twenty-four-year-old female presented with a bilateral blurring of vision of 3 days.ResultsOCT disclosed multifocal subretinal lobulated cystic fluid collections with thickening and hyper-reflectance in outer retinal layers. Decreased retinal thickness and resolving subretinal fluid collections were seen after commencing treatment by systemic corticosteroids. Conclusion OCT is a very sensitive tool to diagnose and monitor the highly detailed retinal changes during the VKH course especially if presented primarily with ocular symptoms
A 'Hands on' Public Service Program to Help People Stay Sober and Safer on the Roadway
Authors: Andrews Jessica , Shareef Zanab , Mohammed Mohammed , Nwobi Edison , Masri-zada Tariq , Head Tyiesha , Zohr Tylor , Head Doreen , Commissaris Randall
Published: June 2021

Background. Despite the existence of many different “Don’t drink and drive” programs and campaigns over the past 30 years, alcohol intoxication has continued to account for approximately one quarter to one third of all traffic crashes and crash-related deaths in the United States. The present study describes a new ‘hands on’ evidence-based approach involving real alcohol-intoxicated subjects using a virtual reality (VR) driving ‘game’ to educate the public more effectively about the dangers of drunk driving. Method. A single demonstration subject ‘drove’ a VR-based portable driving simulator on multiple occasions before (Pre) and at 30 minute intervals for up to six hours after either vehicle (no alcohol), 2, 4 or 6 ‘drinks’ (3, 6, or 9 ounces of 80 proof vodka). The defensive driving task was a choice reaction crash avoidance steering maneuver in which the driver’s task was to determine which way to turn to avoid a crash and then aggressively steer away to avoid a crash. The primary dependent variable was the latency to initiate an avoidance steering response. BAC determinations (estimations) were conducted immediately prior to driving tests using BAC Track portable breathalyzers.Results. Control drives (Pre-Treatment and Vehicle treatment) were characterized by an approximately 300-320 msec reaction time to initiate a crash avoidance. Alcohol increased crash-avoidance reaction time. Peak BAC values were 35, 78 and 120 mg/dl for 2,4 and 6 drinks, respectively; the decline in BAC was comparable and linear for all three treatments. There was a strong correlation (r=0.85) between pre-drive BAC level and reaction time across all of the alcohol-related drives. There was a significant increase in crash avoidance reaction time when the BAC was 50-79 mg/dl, which is below the legally-defined BAC limit (80 mg/dl) currently used in most states in the US.Conclusions. These results demonstrate (1) this VR-based driving simulator task could be a useful ‘hands on’ tool for providing public service demonstrations regarding the hazards of drinking and driving and (2) a BAC concentration of 50 mg/dl represents a reasonable evidence-based cut-off for alcohol-impaired driving.
The Way to a Man’s Heart Is Through His Stomach: a Case of Myocardial Infarction Mimic and Pseudo-tamponade in a Polytrauma Patient.
Authors: Brun Mathew , Brun Shane , Pearson David , Wullschleger Martin
Published: June 2021

Background: There exists a therapeutic conflict between haemorrhage control and prevention of thromboembolic events following polytrauma and complications are not uncommon. Such opposing therapies can result in unexpected pathophysiology and there is a real risk of misdiagnosis resulting in harm. This case presents a previously unreported complication of prevention and management of thromboembolism- STEMI (ST elevation myocardial infarction) and tamponade mimic secondary to retroperitoneal haematoma.Case presentation: We present a 50-year-old male polytrauma patient who following treatment for presumed pulmonary embolus demonstrated classical clinical findings of myocardial infarction and pericardial tamponade secondary to a retroperitoneal haematoma. This is an event not previously reported in the literature. The risk of adverse outcome by management along the standard lines of STEMI (ST elevation myocardial infarction) was averted through awareness for alternative aetiology via a multi-team approach which resulted in percutaneous drainage of the haematoma and complete resolution of symptoms.Conclusions: This manuscript highlights the therapeutic conflict between haemorrhage control and prevention of thromboembolic events in critically injured, the importance of high index of suspicion in this patient cohort and the benefits of multidisciplinary decision making in the complex patient through a not previously published pathophysiologic phenomenon.
Modelling Impacts of Lateral N Flows And Seasonal Warming on an Arctic Footslope Ecosystem N Budget and N2O Emissions Based on Species-Level Responses
Authors: Rasmussen Laura Helene , Zhang Wenxin , Ambus Per , Jansson Per-Erik , Kitzler Barbara , Elberling Bo
Published: June 2021

Future Arctic tundra primary productivity and vegetation community composition will partly be determined by nitrogen (N) availability in a warmer climate. N mineralization rates are predicted to increase in winter and summer, but because N demand and –mobility varies across seasons, the fate of mineralized N remains uncertain. N mineralized in winter is released in a “pulse” upon snowmelt and soil thaw, with the potential for lateral redistribution in the landscape. In summer, the release is into an active rhizosphere with high local biological N demand. In this study, we investigated the ecosystem sensitivity to increased lateral N input and near-surface warming, respectively and in combination, with a numerical ecosystem model (CoupModel) parameterized to simulate ecosystem biogeochemistry for a tundra heath ecosystem in West Greenland. Both model and measurements indicated that plants were poor utilizers of increased early-season lateral N input, indicating that higher winter N mineralization rates may have limited influence on plant growth and carbon (C) sequestration for a hillslope ecosystem. The model further suggested that, although deciduous shrubs were the plant type with overall most lateral N gain, evergreen shrubs had a comparative advantage utilizing early-season N. In contrast, near-surface summer warming increased plant biomass and N uptake, moving N from soil to plant N pools, and offered an advantage to deciduous plants. Neither simulated high lateral N fluxes nor near-surface soil warming suggests that mesic tundra heaths will be important sources of N2O under warmer conditions. Our work highlights how winter and summer warming may play different roles in tundra ecosystem N and C budgets depending on plant community composition.
Pancytopenia Secondary to SARS-CoV 2 Infection-A Case Reprt
Authors: Sharma Neeraj , Shukla Rajat , Warrier Rachna , Kumar Kunal , Singh Nalin , Ghose Sourav , Kumar Vivek
Published: June 2021

Pancytopenia is a condition when person has low count of all three types of blood cells causing a triage of anemia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. It should not be considered as a disease in itself but rather the sign of a disease that needs to be further evaluated. Among the various causes, viral infections like Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus and Parvovirus B19 have been implicated. Pancytopenia is a rare complication and not commonly seen in patients with COVID 19 disease. Here, we report a case of pancytopenia in previously immunocompetent elderly male patient with SARS-CoV2 infection.
Development and construct validation of a questionnaire for measuring affordances for motor behavior of schoolchildren
Authors: Flôres Fábio Saraiva , Rodrigues Luis Paulo , Cordovil Rita
Published: June 2021

Environments where children move about provide affordances that play a significant role in their development. This research presents the Affordances for Motor Behavior of Schoolchildren (AMBS) assessment tool, which aims to assess the interdependent systems, such as home, school, and sports activities, that can influence 6 to 10-year-old children's motor development, motor learning, and motor competence. After establishing face validity, 259 south Brazilian families completed the questionnaire. We assessed construct validity on the whole sample with Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The model testing showed a very good fit, and the structural model presented significative loading coefficients from the identified variables to the theoretically specified latent variables (factors). Significant correlation values were found between factors: Home and Materials (r = 0.77), Home and School (r = 0.41), and Materials and School (r = 0.56). Our results suggest that the AMBS can assess the opportunities for action provided to children by their home, the materials in it, and their school.
Current Situation of Clinical Trials of Drugs for Children's Indications in China
Authors: Song Lin , Ran Sujuan , Jia Yuntao , Li Bin , Xu Jin , Huo Bennian , Yin Nange , Ai Maolin , Liu Yao
Published: June 2021

Background: The number of pediatric outpatient visits in the general hospitals of China shows an increasing trend year by year. To analyze the current situation of clinical trials of drugs with indications for children in China in order to provide references for research and development of drugs for children and in formulating relevant policies. Methods: Drug clinical trials with indications for children registered before January 9, 2020 were retrieved based on the drug clinical trial registration and information publicity platform. The data were extracted and statistically analyzed by excel 2010 and SPSS 22.0, respectively. Results: There were 256 clinical trials of drugs with indications for children, which accounted for 2.61% of the total registered trials. The overall average annual growth rate of the number of trials from 2007 to 2019 was 43.30% (P=0.0000). The host company and the lead organization were mainly located in the eastern and northern parts of China. There were 67 trials (26.17%) with children as subjects; 102 trials (39.84%) with research drugs only for children; the drug type was mainly the chemical drug, and indications mainly included infections, nervous and mental diseases and respiratory diseases. Conclusion: The prospects associated with pediatric drug development are positive, but it still needs new incentives or technical guidance to further promote.
Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Reduces in-Hospital Mortality in Patients with Fulminant Myocarditis
Authors: Zhou Ning , Shu Hongyang , Hang Weijian , Li Chenze , Wu Dongyang , Wang Xiaoyan , Jiang Jiangang , Wang Dao Wen
Published: June 2021

A life support-based comprehensive treatment regimen, in which an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) unloads the left ventricle, has reduced the mortality of patients with fulminant myocarditis (FM). This study evaluated the efficacy of IABP in the treatment of patients with FM. A total of 100 patients diagnosed with FM were divided into two groups depending on the application of IABPs. 57 (57%) received IABPs within 30 min after admission (IABP group), whereas 43 (43%) did not (non-IABP group). In IABP group, 24.6% (14/57) died, compared to 34.9% (15/43) of those without IABPs (P < 0.01). The mean blood pressure (MBP), averaged heart rate (AHR), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were similar between the two groups on admission. However, compared to the non-IABP group, MBP and LVEF were increased and AHR was significantly in IABP group. IABPs reduced the in-hospital mortality risk and improved the cardiac dysfunction in patients with FM.
The Impact of Schizotypy on Quality of Life Among Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Klang Albin , Westerberg Britta , Humble Mats B. , Bejerot Susanne
Published: June 2021

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizotypal personality disorder can be difficult to distinguish. Deficits in social relationships and social interaction, present in both conditions, are known to impair quality of life. The aim of the present study was to investigate if schizotypal symptoms affect quality of life among adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and to study the association between schizotypy and autistic traits among them. Methods: Participants diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (n=110) completed questionnaires exploring schizotypy (Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire – Brief Revised (SPQ-BR)), autistic traits (The Ritvo Autism, Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised Screen 14 items), anxiety and depression (The Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale) and quality of life (Brunnsviken Brief Quality of Life Scale and the European quality of life index version 5D). Results: Schizotypy was found to be associated with anxiety, depressive and autistic symptoms, and poor quality of life. Although schizotypy was a predictor for impaired quality of life, this relationship was mediated by symptoms of anxiety and depression, plausibly inherent to autism. Autistic traits were positively associated with all higher order constructs of the SPQ-BR, i.e. positive and negative schizotypy, disorganization and social anxiety, as well as with poor quality of life. Conclusions: There is considerable overlap between schizotypy and autism that needs to be considered in research. Prominent schizotypal traits in people with ASD may constitute an endophenotype coinciding with a particularly poor quality of life.
Quantitative Evaluation of the Supercontinuum Laser Eye Dazzling Effect: in vivo Experimental Research
Authors: Fan Yingwei , Ma Qiong , Liang Jie , Luo Zhenkun , Kang Hongxiiang
Published: June 2021

Background: Laser eye dazzling affects the visual performance through the instant high-intensity light stimulation. The temporary loss or deterioration of the visual function may occur when radiated by lasers. To quantitatively evaluate the dazzling effect of each spectrum band of supercontinuum laser, we conducted an experimental research for exploring the safety and dazzling of animals’ eyes. Methods: Under the condition of dark adaption, the laser with different power densities and spectral bands was output, and the rabbit eyes were radiated by normal incident mode for 0.25 s. The fundus of the rabbit eyes was examined through the inspection mirror, and the upper limit of safe power density was explored. Rabbit eyes were radiated at the upper limit of safe power density, and the microscopic damage model was established for pathomorphological analysis. The eyes were radiated with blinding light for 0.1 s. The visual electrophysiological signals were collected dynamically and the recovery time of ERG-b amplitude was recorded and analyzed after laser radiation. Results: Under dark adaptation, the upper limit of safe power density was 247.00 mW/cm2 in the VS, 194.00 mW/cm2 in the VIS, 1184.00 mW/cm2 in the IS, and 1052.00 mW/cm2 in the FS. The above power densities of laser radiation in rabbit eyes could cause pathological changes of retinal structure, such as local bulge, uneven thickness and disorder of inner and outer nuclear layers, local inflammatory exudation and so on. When the power density was 8.00 mW/cm2, the recovery time of ERG-b wave in rabbit eye was 4.11 ± 0.67 s. When the power density was 12.00 mW/cm2, the recovery time of ERG-b wave in rabbit eye was 4.16 ± 0.55 s. The recovery time of ERG-b wave was 4.50 ± 0.94 s at the power density of 4.60 mW/cm2 in the full spectrum-1, 3.81 ± 0.11 s at the power density of 5.00 mW/cm2 in the full spectrum-2, and 628.00 mW/cm2 in the infrared spectrum. The recovery time of ERG-b wave was only 0.84 ± 0.09 s. Conclusion: The VS, FS, FS-1 and FS-2 of the supercontinuum laser had a good dazzling effect on rabbit eyes, and the dazzling effect was enhanced with the increase of radiation power density, but the infrared spectrum had a little dazzling effect.
Silicosis-associated Severe Pneumonia Treated by Veno-veno-venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: a Case Report
Authors: Xiong Ting , Su Xiao Fei , Liu Zuo Liang , Zhao Shang Ping
Published: June 2021

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an extracorporeal life support system (ECLS) for patients with severe cardiopulmonary failure, there are two basic patterns of veno-arterial (V-A) and veno-venous (V-V). Case presentation: This paper mainly introduced a death case of modified ECMO Patterns which is veno-veno-venous ECMO in the treatment of silicosis with severe pneumonia and analyzed the cause of death after treatment with VV-V ECMO. Conclusions: Although VV-V ECMO is recommended for patients with extremely poor oxygenation conditions, it still be difficult to improve the prognosis of patients with severe lung structural damage, and still has a long way to go.
Remarkably Enhanced Dielectric Stability and Energy Storage Properties in BNT-BST Relaxor Ceramics by A-Site Defect Engineering for Pulsed Power Applications
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Li Dongxu , Shen Zong-Yang , Zeng Xiaojun , Song Fusheng , Luo Wenqin , Wang Xingcai , Wang Zhumei , Li Yueming
Published: June 2021

Lead-free bulk ceramics for advanced pulsed power capacitors show relatively low recoverable energy storage density (Wrec) especially at low electric field condition. To address this challenge, we proposed an A-site defect engineering to optimize the electric polarization behavior by disrupting the orderly arrangement of A-site ions, in which Ba0.105Na0.325Sr0.245−1.5xð0.5xBi0.325+xTiO3 (BNS0.245−1.5xð0.5xB0.325+xT, x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08) lead-free ceramics were selected as the representative. The BNS0.245−1.5xð0.5xB0.325+xT ceramics were prepared by using pressureless solid state sintering and achieved large Wrec (1.8 J/cm3) at a low electric field (@110 kV/cm) when x = 0.06. The value of 1.8 J/cm3 is super high as compared to all other Wrec in lead-free bulk ceramics under a relatively low electric field (< 160 kV/cm). Furthermore, a high dielectric constant of 2930 ± 15% in a wide temperature range of 40 ~ 350°C was also obtained in BNS0.245−1.5xð0.5xB0.325+xT (x = 0.06) ceramics. The excellent performances can be attributed to the A-site defect engineering, which can reduce Pr and improve the thermal evolution of polar nanoregions (PNRs). This work confirms that the BNS0.245−1.5xð0.5xB0.325+xT (x = 0.06) ceramics are desirable for advanced pulsed power capacitors, and will push the development of a series of BNT-based ceramics with high Wrec and high temperature stability.
Fuzzy Rate Analysis of Operators and its Applications in Linear Spaces
Authors: Zhang Yijin , Li Honggang , Jin Maoming , Lin Zongbing
Published: June 2021

In this paper, a new concept, the fuzzy rate of an operator in linear spaces is proposed for the very first time. Some properties and basic principles of it are studied. Fuzzy rate of an operator B which is specific in a plane is discussed. As its application, a new fixed point existence theorem is proved.
Reference genome assemblies reveal the origin and evolution of allohexaploid oat
Authors: Peng Yuanying , Yan Honghai , Guo Laichun , Deng Cao , Kang Lipeng , Wang Chunlong , Zhou Pingping , Yu Kaiquan , Dong Xiaolong , Zhao Jun , Peng Yun , Liu Xiaomeng , Deng Di , Xu Yinghong , Li Ying , Jiang Qiantao , Li Yan , Wei Liming , Wang Jirui , Ma Jian , Hao Ming , Li Wei , Kang Houyang , Zheng Youliang , Wei Yuming , Lu Fei , Ren Changzhong
Published: June 2021

Common oat (Avena sativa) is one of the most important cereal crops serving as a valuable source of forage and human food. While reference genomes of many important crops have been generated, such work in oat has lagged behind, primarily owing to its large, repeat-rich, polyploid genome. By using Oxford Nanopore ultralong sequencing and Hi-C technologies, we have generated the first reference-quality genome assembly of hulless common oat with a contig N50 of 93 Mb. We also assembled the genomes of diploid and tetraploid Avena ancestors, which enabled us to identify oat subgenome, large-scale structural rearrangements, and preferential gene loss in the C subgenome after hexaploidization. Phylogenomic analyses of cereal crops indicated that the oat lineage descended before wheat, offering oat as a unique window into the early evolution of polyploid plants. The origin and evolution of hexaploid oat is deduced from whole-genome sequencing, plastid genome and transcriptomes assemblies of numerous Avena species. The high-quality reference genomes of Avena species with different ploidies and the studies of their polyploidization history will facilitate the full use of crop gene resources and provide a reference for the molecular mechanisms underlying the polyploidization of higher plants, helping us to overcome food security challenges.