bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation Research for the Influence of Mining Sequence on Coal Pillar Stability under Highwall Mining Method
Authors: Huang Jing , Meng Fanbao , Wang Ge , Wu Yingkui , Wen Jinhao
Published: March 2021

Highwall mining, which is referred to the technique of extracting coal from the bottom of an exposed highwall, features safety, efficiency, and economy. According to existing highwall mining methods, the mining sequence has a great influence on highwall stability. Based on a highwall mining project in Australia, this study adopted the FLAC3D numerical simulation method to investigate the stability of coal pillars with different mining sequences. The results show that different mining sequences of boreholes exert a great effect on highwall stability. Compared with sequential mining, the skip mining method achieves higher speed of highwall stabilization and smaller plastic zone of coal pillar with its maximum strength decreasing by 12%. By adjusting the mining sequence scientifically, the coal pillar failure and roof collapse caused by the deviation of mining angle can be avoided. The results may provide a new angle for the studies on the coal pillar layout and stability design in highwall mining.
Prescribed Performance Tracking Control for the Hypersonic Vehicle with Actuator Faults
Authors: Yang Zhenghui , He Wentao , He Yushan , Xie Yaen , Li Jun , Song Shuo
Published: March 2021

This paper provides a solution for the trajectory tracking control of a hypersonic flight vehicle (HFV), which is encountered performance constraints, actuator faults, external disturbances, and system uncertainties. For the altitude and velocity control subsystems, the backstepping-based dynamic surface control (DSC) strategy is constructed to guarantee the predefined constraint of tracking errors. The introduction of first-order low-pass filters effectively remedies the problem of “complexity explosion” existing in high-order backstepping design. Simultaneously, radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs) are adopted for approximating the unavailable dynamics, in which the minimum learning parameter (MLP) algorithm brilliantly alleviates the excessive occupation of the computational resource. Specially, in consideration of the unknown actuator failures, the adaptive signals are designed to enhance the reliability of the closed-loop system. Finally, according to rigorous theoretical analysis and simulation experiment, the stability of the proposed controller is verified, and its superiority is exhibited intuitively.
Attention‐Based Temporal Encoding Network with Background‐Independent Motion Mask for Action Recognition
Authors: Weng Zhengkui , Jin Zhipeng , Chen Shuangxi , Shen Quanquan , Ren Xiangyang , Li Wuzhao
Published: March 2021

Convolutional neural network (CNN) has been leaping forward in recent years. However, the high dimensionality, rich human dynamic characteristics, and various kinds of background interference increase difficulty for traditional CNNs in capturing complicated motion data in videos. A novel framework named the attention‐based temporal encoding network (ATEN) with background‐independent motion mask (BIMM) is proposed to achieve video action recognition here. Initially, we introduce one motion segmenting approach on the basis of boundary prior by associating with the minimal geodesic distance inside a weighted graph that is not directed. Then, we propose one dynamic contrast segmenting strategic procedure for segmenting the object that moves within complicated environments. Subsequently, we build the BIMM for enhancing the object that moves based on the suppression of the not relevant background inside the respective frame. Furthermore, we design one long‐range attention system inside ATEN, capable of effectively remedying the dependency of sophisticated actions that are not periodic in a long term based on the more automatic focus on the semantical vital frames other than the equal process for overall sampled frames. For this reason, the attention mechanism is capable of suppressing the temporal redundancy and highlighting the discriminative frames. Lastly, the framework is assessed by using HMDB51 and UCF101 datasets. As revealed from the experimentally achieved results, our ATEN with BIMM gains 94.5% and 70.6% accuracy, respectively, which outperforms a number of existing methods on both datasets.
Tunnel Collapse Mechanism and Its Control Strategy in Fault Fracture Zone
Authors: Zhang Jin , Wang Mengxue , Xi Chuanhao
Published: March 2021

Complex geological conditions such as fault fracture zone will have a significant adverse impact on tunnel engineering, and collapse, large deformation, and other problems are prominent. The research on the large deformation mechanism and control of tunnel crossing fault fracture zone can provide guidance for tunnel safety construction. Based on the Jingzhai tunnel, combined with geological analysis, theoretical research, numerical simulation, and other means, this paper studies and analyzes the large deformation mechanism of the tunnel. The control effect of different advanced reinforcement measures is studied.
Mujer y academia en tiempos de pandemia
Authors: Rivera Mercado Solange Tatiana
Published: March 2021

Hace años existe, a nivel nacional e internacional, una preocupación por abordar las brechas de género en lo social y educativo. Chile es un país particularmente afectado por estas brechas en detrimento de las mujeres, ocupando el lugar 63 de 144 naciones en el Índice de brechas de género del Foro Económico Mundial (Foro Económico mundial, 2017). Brecha de género en el mundo. Informe del Foro Económico Mundial . Los resultados que muestran un mayor rezago para nuestro país, según lo evaluado por este índice, fueron los indicadores de “participación económica y oportunidades”. Esta área muestra una baja participación de las mujeres en el mercado laboral, disparidad en las remuneraciones, escasa diversidad en los campos de ocupación y la falta de presencia de mujeres en cargos altos en empresas privadas u organizaciones públicas.
An Fc-free EGFR-specific 4-1BB-agonistic Trimerbody Displays Broad Antitumor Activity in Humanized Murine Cancer Models without Toxicity
Authors: Compte Marta , Harwood Seandean L. , Erce-Llamazares Ainhoa , Tapia-Galisteo Antonio , Romero Eduardo , Ferrer Irene , Garrido-Martin Eva M. , Enguita Ana B. , Ochoa Maria C. , Blanco Belén , Oteo Marta , Merino Nekane , Nehme-Álvarez Daniel , Hangiu Oana , Domínguez-Alonso Carmen , Zonca Manuela , Ramírez-Fernández Angel , Blanco Francisco J. , Morcillo Miguel A. , Muñoz Ines G. , Melero Ignacio , Rodriguez-Peralto José L. , Paz-Ares Luis , Sanz Laura , Alvarez-Vallina Luis
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

The induction of 4-1BB signaling by agonistic antibodies can drive the activation and proliferation of effector T cells and thereby enhance a T-cell–mediated antitumor response. Systemic administration of anti-4-1BB–agonistic IgGs, although effective preclinically, has not advanced in clinical development due to their severe hepatotoxicity.

Experimental Design:

Here, we generated a humanized EGFR-specific 4-1BB-agonistic trimerbody, which replaces the IgG Fc region with a human collagen homotrimerization domain. It was characterized by structural analysis and in vitro functional studies. We also assessed pharmacokinetics, antitumor efficacy, and toxicity in vivo.

Results:

In the presence of a T-cell receptor signal, the trimerbody provided potent T-cell costimulation that was strictly dependent on 4-1BB hyperclustering at the point of contact with a tumor antigen-displaying cell surface. It exhibits significant antitumor activity in vivo, without hepatotoxicity, in a wide range of human tumors including colorectal and breast cancer cell-derived xenografts, and non–small cell lung cancer patient-derived xenografts associated with increased tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells. The combination of the trimerbody with a PD-L1 blocker led to increased IFNγ secretion in vitro and resulted in tumor regression in humanized mice bearing aggressive triple-negative breast cancer.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate the nontoxic broad antitumor activity of humanized Fc-free tumor-specific 4-1BB-agonistic trimerbodies and their synergy with checkpoint blockers, which may provide a way to elicit responses in most patients with cancer while avoiding Fc-mediated adverse reactions.
ABCB1 and ABCG2 Restrict Brain and Testis Accumulation and, Alongside CYP3A, Limit Oral Availability of the Novel TRK Inhibitor Selitrectinib
Authors: Li Wenlong , Sparidans Rolf W. , Martins Margarida L.F. , El-Lari Mujtaba , Lebre Maria C. , van Tellingen Olaf , Beijnen Jos H. , Schinkel Alfred H.
Published: March 2021

Selitrectinib (BAY2731954; LOXO-195) is a promising oral tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) inhibitor currently in phase I/II clinical trials for the treatment of histology-agnostic cancers positive for TRK fusions. With therapeutic resistance eventually developing with first-generation TRK inhibitors, selitrectinib was designed to overcome resistance mediated by acquired kinase domain mutations. Using genetically modified mouse models and pharmacological inhibitors, we investigated the roles of the multidrug efflux transporters ABCB1 and ABCG2, and the drug-metabolizing CYP3A enzyme complex in selitrectinib pharmacokinetics. In vitro, selitrectinib was markedly transported by mouse Abcg2 and human ABCB1, and modestly by human ABCG2. Following oral administration at 10 mg/kg, selitrectinib brain-to-plasma ratios were increased in Abcb1a/1b−/− (twofold) and Abcb1a/1b;Abcg2−/− (5.8-fold) compared with wild-type mice, but not in single Abcg2−/− mice. Testis distribution showed similar results. mAbcb1a/1b and mAbcg2 each restricted the plasma exposure of selitrectinib: With both systems absent oral availability increased by 1.7-fold. Oral administration of the ABCB1/ABCG2 inhibitor elacridar boosted plasma exposure and brain accumulation in wild-type mice to the same levels as seen in Abcb1a/1b;Abcg2−/− mice. In Cyp3a−/− mice, plasma exposure of selitrectinib over 4 hours was increased by 1.4-fold and subsequently reduced by 2.3-fold upon transgenic overexpression of human CYP3A4 in liver and intestine. The relative tissue distribution of selitrectinib remained unaltered. Thus, selitrectinib brain accumulation and oral availability are substantially restricted by ABCB1 and ABCG2, and this can be reversed by pharmacological inhibition. Moreover, oral availability of selitrectinib is limited by CYP3A activity. These insights may be useful to optimize the clinical application of selitrectinib.
3D Collagen Vascular Tumor-on-a-Chip Mimetics for Dynamic Combinatorial Drug Screening
Authors: Wan Li , Yin Jun , Skoko John , Schwartz Russell , Zhang Mei , LeDuc Philip R. , Neumann Carola A.
Published: March 2021

Disease models, including in vitro cell culture and animal models, have contributed significantly to developing diagnostics and treatments over the past several decades. The successes of traditional drug screening methods were generally hampered by not adequately mimicking critical in vivo features, such as a 3D microenvironment and dynamic drug diffusion through the extracellular matrix (ECM). To address these issues, we developed a 3D dynamic drug delivery system for cancer drug screening that mimicks drug dissemination through the tumor vasculature and the ECM by creating collagen-embedded microfluidic channels. Using this novel 3D ECM microsystem, we compared viability of tumor pieces with traditionally used 2D methods in response to three different drug combinations. Drug diffusion profiles were evaluated by simulation methods and tested in the 3D ECM microsystem and a 2D 96-well setup. Compared with the 2D control, the 3D ECM microsystem produced reliable data on viability, drug ratios, and combination indeces. This novel approach enables higher throughput and sets the stage for future applications utilizing drug sensitivity predicting algorithms based on dynamic diffusion profiles requiring only minimal patient tissue. Our findings moved drug sensitivity screening closer to clinical implications with a focus on testing combinatorial drug effects, an option often limited by the amount of available patient tissues.
Targeted Therapy to β3 Integrin Reduces Chemoresistance in Breast Cancer Bone Metastases
Authors: Fox Gregory C. , Su Xinming , Davis Jennifer L. , Xu Yalin , Kwakwa Kristin A. , Ross Michael H. , Fontana Francesca , Xiang Jingyu , Esser Alison K. , Cordell Elizabeth , Pagliai Kristen , Dang Ha X. , Sivapackiam Jothilingam , Stewart Sheila A. , Maher Christopher A. , Bakewell Suzanne J. , Fitzpatrick James A.J. , Sharma Vijay , Achilefu Samuel , Veis Deborah J. , Lanza Gregory M. , Weilbaecher Katherine N.
Published: March 2021

Breast cancer bone metastases are common and incurable. Tumoral integrin β3 (β3) expression is induced through interaction with the bone microenvironment. Although β3 is known to promote bone colonization, its functional role during therapy of established bone metastases is not known. We found increased numbers of β3+ tumor cells in murine bone metastases after docetaxel chemotherapy. β3+ tumor cells were present in 97% of post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy triple-negative breast cancer patient samples (n = 38). High tumoral β3 expression was associated with worse outcomes in both pre- and postchemotherapy triple-negative breast cancer groups. Genetic deletion of tumoral β3 had minimal effect in vitro, but significantly enhanced in vivo docetaxel activity, particularly in the bone. Rescue experiments confirmed that this effect required intact β3 signaling. Ultrastructural, transcriptomic, and functional analyses revealed an alternative metabolic response to chemotherapy in β3-expressing cells characterized by enhanced oxygen consumption, reactive oxygen species generation, and protein production. We identified mTORC1 as a candidate for therapeutic targeting of this β3-mediated, chemotherapy-induced metabolic response. mTORC1 inhibition in combination with docetaxel synergistically attenuated murine bone metastases. Furthermore, micelle nanoparticle delivery of mTORC1 inhibitor to cells expressing activated αvβ3 integrins enhanced docetaxel efficacy in bone metastases. Taken together, we show that β3 integrin induction by the bone microenvironment promotes resistance to chemotherapy through an altered metabolic response that can be defused by combination with αvβ3-targeted mTORC1 inhibitor nanotherapy. Our work demonstrates the importance of the metastatic microenvironment when designing treatments and presents new, bone-specific strategies for enhancing chemotherapeutic efficacy.
Identification of circRNA-miRNA-mRNA Regulatory Network in Bladder Cancer by Integrated Analysis
Authors: Chen Peng , Chen Juan , He Long , Du Cheng , Wang Xialu
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Bladder cancer (BC) is a common malignant tumor in the urinary system with high mortality and recurrence rates. This study sought to identify crucial circular RNAs (circRNAs) associated with BC. Methods: The mRNA, miRNA, and circRNA expression profiles of BC were downloaded from GEO database. The differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), and circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) were identified using bioinformatics method. Combining circRNA-miRNA pairs with miRNA-mRNA pairs, the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA; DEcircRNA-DEmi­RNA-DEmRNA) regulatory network was constructed. Functional annotation of host gene of DEcircRNAs and DEmRNAs in ceRNA regulatory network were performed. qRT-PCR validation was performed. Results: A total of 4,003 DEmRNAs, 25 DEmiRNAs, and 119 DEcircRNAs were obtained. The ceRNA network contained 18 circRNA-miRNA pairs and 699 mi­RNA-mRNA pairs, including 17 circRNAs, 4 miRNAs, and 624 mRNAs. Functional annotation of DEmRNAs in ceRNA regulatory network revealed that these DEmRNAs were significantly enriched in glycerolipid metabolism, p53 signaling pathway, and oocyte meiosis. Except for hsa_circ_0028173, expression of the others in the qRT-PCR results was consistent with that in our integrated analysis, generally. Conclusion: We speculate that hsa_circ_0008035/hsa-miR-107/MSRB3 and hsa_circ_0028173/hsa-miR-338-3p/TPX2/GATA3 interaction pairs may play a vital role in BC.
Ambient Air Pollution and Mortality among Older Patients Initiating Maintenance Dialysis
Authors: Feng Yijing , Jones Miranda R. , Chu Nadia M. , Segev Dorry L. , McAdams-DeMarco Mara
Published: March 2021

Background: Fine particulate matter (particulate matter with diameter <2.5 µm [PM2.5]) is associated with CKD progression and may impact the health of patients living with kidney failure. While older (aged ≥65 years) adults are most vulnerable to the impact of PM2.5, it is unclear whether older patients on dialysis are at elevated risk of mortality when exposed to fine particulate matter. Methods: Older adults initiating dialysis (2010–2016) were identified from US Renal Data System (USRDS). PM2.5 concentrations were obtained from NASA’s Socioeconomic Data and Application Center (SEDAC) Global Annual PM2.5 Grids. We investigated the association between PM2.5 and all-cause mortality using Cox proportional hazard models with linear splines [knot at the current Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) National Ambient Air Quality Standard for PM2.5 of 12 μg/m3] and robust variance. Results: For older dialysis patients who resided in areas with high PM2.5, a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with 1.16-fold (95% CI: 1.08–1.25) increased risk of mortality; furthermore, those who were female (aHR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.13–1.42), Black (aHR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.09–1.59), or had diabetes as a primary cause of kidney failure (aHR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.13–1.38) were most vulnerable to high PM2.5. While the mortality risk associated with PM2.5 was stronger at higher levels (aHR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.08–1.32), at lower levels (≤12 μg/m3), PM2.5 was significantly associated with mortality risk (aHR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.00–1.07) among patients aged ≥75 years (Pslope difference = 0.006). Conclusions: Older adults initiating dialysis who resided in ZIP codes with PM2.5 levels >12 μg/m3 are at increased risk of mortality. Those aged >75 were at elevated risk even at levels below the EPA Standard for PM2.5.
Appraising the Accuracy of Ischaemia-Modified Albumin in Diagnosing Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Wenhua , Tang Guanghua , Zhou Xianshi , Ye Ye
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Ischaemia-modified albumin (IMA) is a new, sensitive marker of ischaemic diseases that has been approved for diagnosing myocardial ischaemia. However, the accuracy of IMA in the diagnosis of stroke remains to be clarified. The study’s purpose is to assess the potential role of IMA as a diagnostic indicator in stroke. Methods: We carried out a systematic search in Medline, the Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, Science Direct, ISI Web of Knowledge, and the reference lists of relevant articles from the databases’ inception to September 1, 2019. Studies that appraised the diagnostic accuracy of IMA for acute stroke patients were included in our study. Two reviewers extracted data independently and assessed the quality of the retrieved studies, and disagreements were resolved through discussions with a third reviewer. Sensitivities and specificities were pooled by using bivariate diagnostic meta-analysis. We calculated I2 to test the heterogeneity and used meta-regression to identify potential sources of heterogeneity. This systematic review and meta-analysis is registered in international prospective register of systematic reviews (number CRD42020149174). Results: Six studies with 605 patients were eligible for inclusion. Our meta-analysis produced the following outcomes: the mean sensitivity of IMA in diagnosing acute stroke was 0.80 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69–0.88) and the specificity was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.71–0.87). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.86 (95% CI, 0.83–0.89), and the pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 16 (95% CI, 8–33). There was obvious heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 78%, 95% CI, 53–100). Sensitivity analysis and meta-regression could account for the heterogeneity. Conclusion: IMA is a helpful marker for consideration in the early diagnosis of stroke.
Bufavirus, Cosavirus, and Salivirus in Diarrheal Italian Infants
Authors: Daprà Valentina , Galliano Ilaria , Montanari Paola , Zaniol Elena , Calvi Cristina , Alliaudi Carla , Bergallo Massimiliano
Published: March 2021

Three newly discovered viruses have been recently described in diarrheal patients: Cosavirus (CosV) and Salivirus (SalV), 2 picornaviruses, and bufavirus (BuV), a parvovirus. The detection rate and the role of these viruses remain to be established in acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in diarrheal Italian infants. From November 2016 to November 2017, stool samples were collected from 160 children <5 years old suffering from AGE and attending the Children’s Hospital in Turin, Italy. During the study period, 1 (0.5%) sample was positive for 1 of the 3 investigated viruses: 0 (0%) CosV, 1 (0.5%) SalV, and 0 (0%) BuV, whereas 42 (26.0%) children were infected with rotavirus and 2 (1%) with adenovirus. No mixed infections involving the 3 viruses were found. Although these viruses are suspected to be responsible for AGE in children, our data showed that this association was uncertain. Therefore, further studies with large cohorts of healthy and diarrheal children will be needed to evaluate their clinical role in AGE.
Effect of Peer Mentoring on Quality of Life among CKD Patients: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ghahramani Nasrollah , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Kraschnewski Jennifer L. , Lengerich Eugene J. , Sciamanna Christopher N.
Published: March 2021

Introduction: CKD is associated with decreased quality of life (QOL). Peer mentoring (PM) leads to improved QOL in various chronic diseases. The effectiveness of PM on QOL of patients with CKD has not been previously studied. We conducted a randomized clinical trial to test the effectiveness of face-to-face (FTF) and online mentoring by trained peers, compared with usual care, on CKD patients’ QOL. Methods: We randomized 155 patients in one of 3 groups: (1) FTF PM (n = 52), (2) online PM (n = 52), and (3) textbook only (n = 51). Peer mentors were patients with CKD, who received formal training through 16 h of instruction. Participants in all 3 groups received a copy of an informational textbook about CKD. Participants assigned to PM received either 6 months of FTF or online PM. The outcomes included time-related changes in domain scores of the Kidney Disease Quality of Life (KDQOL)-36 for each of the groups over the 18-month study period. Results: Compared with baseline, online PM led to improved scores in domains of the KDQOL-36 at 18 months: Effects of Kidney Disease (p = 0.01), Burden of Kidney Disease (p = 0.01), Symptoms and Problems of Kidney Disease (p = 0.006), SF-12 Physical Composite Summary (p = 0.001), and SF-12 Mental Composite Summary (p < 0.001). There were no statistically significant changes from baseline in domain scores of KDQOL-36 within the FTF PM and textbook-only groups. Conclusions: Among patients with CKD, online PM led to increased scores in domains of the KDQOL-36 at 18 months. The study was limited to English-speaking subjects with computer literacy and internet access.
Increased Incidence of Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis in Germany
Authors: Trömmer Kathleen , Kostev Karel , Jacob Louis , Tanislav Christian
Published: March 2021

Background: As chronic inflammatory diseases may be associated with an increased risk of vascular events, the aim of the present study was to assess the incidence of stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods: Patients diagnosed with RA and AS in 1,262 general practices in Germany between 2000 and 2015 were selected. RA and AS patients were matched to patients without RA or AS using propensity scores based on age, sex, physician, co-diagnoses, and co-therapies. The Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression models were used to study the incidence of stroke and TIA as a function of RA and AS. Results: In the study population (N = 29,106; mean age 54.8 years; 65% women), 24,580 patients had RA and 4,526 had AS. RA was significantly associated with the stroke (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.42, confidence interval [CI]: 1.25–1.60) and TIA (HR = 1.69, CI: 1.46–1.95). The association between RA and stroke was strongest in the age group 18–40 years (HR = 3.45, CI: 1.30–9.18). The HR for stroke in AS was 1.41 (CI: 0.99–2.00) and for TIA 1.62 (1.08–2.44). Conclusion: RA was significantly associated with stroke and TIA, with young patients being at a particularly increased risk. AS was tendentially associated with stroke and TIA.
Effect of Statewide Lockdown in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic on Physical Activity Levels of Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Han Maggie , Preciado Priscila , Thwin Ohnmar , Tao Xia , Tapia-Silva Leticia M. , Fuentes Lemuel Rivera , Hakim Mohamad , Patel Amrish , Tisdale Lela , Zhang Hanjie , Kotanko Peter
Published: March 2021

Background/Objectives: On March 22, 2020, a statewide stay-at-home order for nonessential tasks was implemented in New York State. We aimed to determine the impact of the lockdown on physical activity levels (PAL) in hemodialysis patients. Methods: Starting in May 2018, we are conducting an observational study with a 1-year follow-up on PAL in patients from 4 hemodialysis clinics in New York City. Patients active in the study as of March 22, 2020, were included. PAL was defined by steps taken per day measured by a wrist-based monitoring device (Fitbit Charge 2). Average steps/day were calculated for January 1 to February 13, 2020, and then weekly from February 14 to June 30. Results: 42 patients were included. Their mean age was 55 years, 79% were males, and 69% were African Americans. Between January 1 and February 13, 2020, patients took on average 5,963 (95% CI 4,909–7,017) steps/day. In the week prior to the mandated lockdown, when a national emergency was declared, and in the week of the shutdown, the average number of daily steps had decreased by 868 steps/day (95% CI 213–1,722) and 1,222 steps/day (95% CI 668–2300), respectively. Six patients were diagnosed with COVID-19 during the study period. Five of them exhibited significantly higher PAL in the 2 weeks prior to showing COVID-19 symptoms compared to COVID-19 negative patients. Conclusion: Lockdown measures were associated with a significant decrease in PAL in hemodialysis patients. Patients who contracted COVID-19 had higher PAL during the incubation period. Methods to increase PAL while allowing for social distancing should be explored and implemented.
Safety of a Novel Dialyzer Containing a Fluorinated Polyurethane Surface-Modifying Macromolecule in Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease
Authors: Meyer Jill M. , Steer Dylan , Weber Lisa A. , Zeitone Abeer A. , Thakuria Mayuri , Ho Chiang-Hong , Aslam Shakil , Mullon Claudy , Kossmann Robert J.
Published: March 2021

Background: By inhibiting the adsorption of protein and platelets, surface-modifying macromolecules (SMMs) may improve the hemocompatibility of hemodialyzers. This trial aims to assess the performance and safety of a novel dialyzer with a fluorinated polyurethane SMM, Endexo™. Methods: This prospective, sequential, multicenter, open-label study (NCT03536663) was designed to meet regulatory requirements for clinical testing of new hemodialyzers, including assessment of the in vivo ultrafiltration coefficient (Kuf). Adults prescribed thrice-weekly hemodialysis were eligible for enrollment. After completing 12 hemodialysis sessions with an Optiflux® F160NR dialyzer, patients received 38 sessions with the dialyzer with Endexo. Evaluated parameters included the in vivo Kuf of the dialyzer with Endexo extent of removal of urea, albumin, and β2-microglobulin (β2M), as well as complement activation. Results: Twenty-three patients received 268 hemodialysis treatments during the Optiflux period, and 18 patients received 664 hemodialysis treatments during the Endexo period. Three serious adverse events were reported, and none of them were considered device related. No overt complement activation was observed with either dialyzer. Both dialyzers were associated with comparable mean increases in serum albumin levels from pre- to posthemodialysis (Optiflux: 7.9%; Endexo: 8.0%). These increases can be viewed in the context of a mean increase in hemoglobin of approximately 5% and a mean ultrafiltration volume removed of approximately 2.2 L. The corrected mean β2M removal rate was 47% higher during the Endexo period (67.73%). Mean treatment times (208 vs. 205 min), blood flow rates (447.7 vs. 447.5 mL/min), dialysate flow rates (698.5 vs. 698.0 mL/min), urea reduction ratio (82 vs. 81%), and spKt/V (2.1 vs. 1.9) were comparable for the Endexo and Optiflux periods, respectively. The mean (SD) Kuf was 15.85 (10.33) mL/h/mm Hg during the first use of the dialyzer with Endexo (primary endpoint) and 16.36 (9.92) mL/h/mm Hg across the Endexo period. Conclusions: The safety of the novel dialyzer with Endexo was generally comparable to the Optiflux dialyzer, while exhibiting a higher β2M removal rate.
Total Dietary Fat Intake, Fat Quality, and Health Outcomes: A Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews of Prospective Studies
Authors: Schwingshackl Lukas , Zähringer Jasmin , Beyerbach Jessica , Werner Sarah W. , Heseker Helmut , Koletzko Berthold , Meerpohl Joerg J.
Published: March 2021

Introduction: We conducted a scoping review of systematic reviews (SRs) on dietary fat intake and health outcomes in human adults within the context of a position paper by the “International Union of Nutritional Sciences Task force on Dietary Fat Quality” tasked to summarize the available evidence and provide dietary recommendations. Methods: We systematically searched several databases for relevant SRs of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and/or prospective cohort studies published between 2015 and 2019 assessing the association between dietary fat and health outcomes. Results: Fifty-nine SRs were included. The findings from SRs of prospective cohort studies, which frequently compare the highest versus lowest intake categories, found mainly no association of total fat, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and saturated fatty acid (SFA) with risk of chronic diseases. SRs of RCTs applying substitution analyses indicate that SFA replacement with PUFA and/or MUFA improves blood lipids and glycemic control, with the effect of PUFA being more pronounced. A higher intake of total trans-fatty acid (TFA), but not ruminant TFA, was probably associated with an increased risk of mortality and cardiovascular disease based on existing SRs. Conclusion: Overall, the available published evidence deems it reasonable to recommend replacement of SFA with MUFA and PUFA and avoidance of consumption of industrial TFA.
The Impact of Early Childhood Factors on Dental Caries Incidence in First Permanent Molars: A 7-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Emmanuelli Bruno , Knorst Jessica Klöckner , Menegazzo Gabriele Rissotto , Mendes Fausto Medeiros , Ardenghi Thiago Machado
Published: March 2021

The development of dental caries in first permanent molars has been extensively investigated. However, studies are inconclusive in determining the influence of contextual and individual factors on dental caries incidence in this group of teeth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of contextual and individual factors on dental caries incidence in first permanent molars. This 7-year cohort study was conducted with children (1–5 years of age) who had been assessed initially in a survey performed in 2010. Dental caries was assessed at the baseline through the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS). Contextual and individual variables were collected at baseline and included the presence of cultural community centers in the neighborhood as well as demographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, and biological characteristics. A multilevel Poisson regression model was used to investigate the influence of individual and contextual characteristics on dental caries incidence in first permanent molars (relative risk [RR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]). Of the 639 children examined at baseline, a total of 449 were reassessed after 7 years (70.3% retention rate). Children who lived in neighborhoods with cultural community centers had a lower risk of dental caries in first permanent molars at the follow-up (RR 0.78; 95% CI 0.62–0.99). Children from families with a low income (RR 1.34; 95% CI 1.03–1.76) and poor parental perception of children’s oral health (RR 1.56; 95% CI 1.18–2.06) were associated with a higher risk of dental caries in first molars. In conclusion, individual and contextual determinants showed an important role in the incidence of caries in first permanent molars.
A Thermally Stable Protein EPP1 of Corn Borer Ostrinia furnacalis Regulates Hemocytic Encapsulation
Authors: Hu Jian , Feng Xiangping , Yao Li , Meng Meng , Du Yan , Dong Yipei , Song Zhenkun , Tian Mengli , Chen Yu
Published: March 2021

Encapsulation is a vital cellular immune reaction of host insects against endoparasitoids; however, how encapsulation is regulated is still unclear. Utilizing a cell line, SYSU-OfHem C, derived from larval hemocytes of the Asian corn borer Ostrinia furnacalis to assay for encapsulation response, an encapsulation-promoting protein (OfEPP1) was isolated from the plasma of O. furnacalis larvae. OfEPP1 is a novel secretory protein, which exists only in O. furnacalis to date. The OfEpp1 gene is intronless and encodes a protein containing several groups of short repetitive sequences and a high proportion of proline residues (18.3%). OfEPP1 is a thermally stable protein that is mainly expressed in fat bodies, and its accumulation could be induced by the injection of foreign objects (Sephadex beads). Eukaryotically expressed recombinant OfEPP1 promoted hemocytes to encapsulate Sephadex beads, while prokaryotically expressed protein did not, indicating that posttranscriptional modification affects the function of OfEPP1. The encapsulation-promoting function of OfEPP1 could be neutralized by the addition of polyclonal antibodies against OfEPP1 or disrupted by the injection of dsRNA targeting OfEpp1. Eukaryotically expressed OfEPP1 promoted the aggregation, but not spreading, of both granulocytes and plasmatocytes. Immunocytochemistry analysis showed that eukaryotically expressed OfEPP1 could bind to the surface of hemocytes. Therefore, we speculate that OfEPP1 possibly promotes hemocytic encapsulation by binding to the surface of hemocytes as a ligand to induce their aggregation. This study provides evidence clarifying the mechanism of encapsulation in insects.
High-Level Resistance to Erythromycin and Tetracycline and Dissemination of Resistance Determinants among Clinical Enterococci in Iran
Authors: Ahmadpoor Nikta , Ahmadrajabi Roya , Esfahani Sarvenaz , Hojabri Zoya , Moshafi Mohammad Hassan , Saffari Fereshteh
Published: March 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the distribution pattern of genes responsible for erythromycin and tetracycline resistance and their association with resistance phenotypes in enterococcus isolates. Materials and Methods: Eighty-six Enterococcus faecalis and 26 E. faecium isolates were collected from 2 hospitals in Kerman, Iran. Minimum inhibitory concentration of erythromycin and tetra­cycline was determined and then genes encoding resistance to erythromycin – erm (A-C), mef, and msr – and tetracycline – tet (M), tet (O), tet (S), tet (K), and tet (L) – were investigated. Results: In all resistant isolates (n = 72, 64%), high-level resistance to both tested antibiotics was found. The most prevalent erm gene was erm (B) (77.7%), followed by erm (A) (15.2%) and erm (C) (8.3%). Genes mediating erythromycin efflux were detected in 70.8% (mef) and 9.7% (msr) of resistant isolates. Regarding tetracycline, tet (M) was detected at the highest rate (50%), followed by tet (O) (31%) and tet (S) (11%). Export of tetracycline was found in 31% (tet (K)) and 12% (tet (L)) of isolates. Conclusion: A high prevalence of high-level resistance to both erythromycin and tetracycline was documented. Alterations at the ribosomal level was more frequently detected in erythromycin and tetracycline resistance than efflux systems. Concurrent resistance mechanisms were more involved in resistance to erythromycin than tetracycline.
Influence of communication, collaboration, and decision-making skills on the efficacy of nurses in conducting neonatal resuscitation
Authors: Anggraini Ika Rizki , Putra Kuswantoro Rusca , Setyoadi Setyoadi
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to analyze the influence of communication skill, collaboration, and decision-making upon self-efficacy upon Indonesia nurse’s self-efficacy in performing neonatal resuscitation. The research employed analytical descriptive design with cross-sectional study approach. The data were collected using questionnaire. Moreover, the research was carried out in Malang City area with the total of 75 nurses employed at neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) room and perinatology unit. Meanwhile, for data analysis, product moment correlation and linear regression were employed. The presence of influence of communication skill, collaboration, and decision-making upon nurse’s self-efficacy in performing neonatal resuscitation can be an inestimable reference for the need of objective evaluation on nurse’s capability and reflection on skills they have acquired. Communication skills p=0.000 (<0.05), collaboration p=0.000 (<0.05), preparation of results p=0.000 (<0.05) with the effectiveness of nurses in the management of neonatal resuscitation. In addition, multiple linear regression showed communication skills p=0.000, B=0.253 was the most dominant factor influencing nurses' self- efficacy when handling neonatal resuscitation in hospitals in Malang City of Indonesia. This study found an association related to communication skill, collaboration, and nurse decision making. Communication skills are the dominant factor influencing the efficacy of nurses in performing neonatal resuscitation care.
The role of nutrition in COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Octavia Lestari , Harlan Johan
Published: March 2021

In the ongoing coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, the most vulnerable groups are those with pre-existing health problems and the elderly due to their reduced immune system to prevent infection. Nutrition plays a significant role in maintaining the immune system to prevent pathogen manifestation. This review aimed to identify and discuss the role of nutrients in COVID-19 in developing immunity. Studies included in this review were obtained from articles published in reputable journals accessed from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) website, leading search engine, in a retrospective timeframe from January 1 to May 2, 2020, using specified keywords. The search resulted in seven articles relevant to the objective of the review. They highlighted the role of nutrients, namely the deficiency of essential nutrients that might exacerbate the health status. The consumption of certain nutrients, micronutrient and omega-3 might be tolerated up to the upper level of recommended dietary allowance (RDA) to benefit the health status. This review can assist in providing the prevention and mitigation approach to improve immunity amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The government should expand the continuous delivery of messages regarding the benefit of appropriate nutrients in maintaining health and immune system. Furthermore, the current condition gives the best opportunity to educate the community on a healthy and balanced diet for daily life.
Dutch Outcome in Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator Therapy: Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator–Related Complications in a Contemporary Primary Prevention Cohort
Authors: van Barreveld Marit , Verstraelen Tom E. , van Dessel Pascal F. H. M. , Boersma Lucas V. A. , Delnoy Peter Paul H. M. , Tuinenburg Anton E. , Theuns Dominic A. M. J. , van der Voort Pepijn H. , Kimman Geert‐Jan , Buskens Erik , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , Wilde Arthur A. M. , Dijkgraaf Marcel G. W. ,   the DO‐IT Registry Investigators
Published: March 2021

Background

One third of primary prevention implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator patients receive appropriate therapy, but all remain at risk of defibrillator complications. Information on these complications in contemporary cohorts is limited. This study assessed complications and their risk factors after defibrillator implantation in a Dutch nationwide prospective registry cohort and forecasts the potential reduction in complications under distinct scenarios of updated indication criteria.

Methods and Results

Complications in a prospective multicenter registry cohort of 1442 primary implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator implant patients were classified as major or minor. The potential for reducing complications was derived from a newly developed prediction model of appropriate therapy to identify patients with a low probability of benefitting from the implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator. During a follow‐up of 2.2 years (interquartile range, 2.0–2.6 years), 228 complications occurred in 195 patients (13.6%), with 113 patients (7.8%) experiencing at least one major complication. Most common ones were lead related (n=93) and infection (n=18). Minor complications occurred in 6.8% of patients, with lead‐related (n=47) and pocket‐related (n=40) complications as the most prevailing ones. A surgical reintervention or additional hospitalization was required in 53% or 61% of complications, respectively. Complications were strongly associated with device type. Application of stricter implant indication results in a comparable proportional reduction of (major) complications.

Conclusions

One in 13 patients experiences at least one major implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator–related complication, and many patients undergo a surgical reintervention. Complications are related to defibrillator implantations, and these should be discussed with the patient. Stricter implant indication criteria and careful selection of device type implanted may have significant clinical and financial benefits.
Conjoint Associations of Adherence to Physical Activity and Dietary Guidelines With Cardiometabolic Health: The Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Lee Joowon , Walker Maura E. , Bourdillon Maximillian T. , Spartano Nicole L. , Rogers Gail T. , Jacques Paul F. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Xanthakis Vanessa
Published: March 2021

Background

The conjoint associations of adherence to the recent physical activity and dietary guidelines with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) are incompletely understood.

Methods and Results

We evaluated 2379 FHS (Framingham Heart Study) Third Generation participants (mean age, 47 years; 54.4% women) attending examination cycle 2. We examined the cross‐sectional relations of adherence to the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (binary; moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity ≥150 versus <150 min/wk) and 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (binary; 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Adherence Index ≥median versus <median [score, 62.1/100]) with prevalence of the MetS using generalized linear models. We also related adherence to guidelines with the incidence of MetS prospectively, using Cox proportional hazards regression with discrete time intervals. Adherence rates to the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (odds ratio [OR], 0.49; 95% CI, 0.40–0.60) and 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.51–0.90) were individually associated with lower odds of prevalent MetS, whereas conjoint adherence to both guidelines was associated with the lowest odds of MetS (OR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.26–0.47) compared with the referent group (nonadherence to both guidelines). Adherence rates to the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (hazard ratio [HR], 0.66; 95% CI, 0.50–0.88) and 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.51–0.90) were associated with lower risk of MetS, prospectively. In addition, we observed a 52% lower risk of MetS in individuals who adhered to both guidelines compared with the referent group.

Conclusions

Maintaining both regular physical activity and a healthy diet in midlife may be required for optimal cardiometabolic health in later life.
Comparing Modern and Classical Perspectives on Spider Silks and Webs
Authors: Greco Gabriele , Mastellari Virginia , Holland Chris , Pugno Nicola M.
Published: March 2021

Spiders have always fascinated humankind as whilst they are often reviled, their product, the web and its silk, are commonly viewed in awe. As such, silks’ material properties and the fear and fascination surrounding the animals that spin it are seen to play an important role in the development of many cultures and societies. More recently this is even more so with the formalization of this inspiration in scientific and technical communities through biomimetics. The aim of this work is to reflect on the beginnings of our relationship with silk and discuss concepts associated with spider silks and webs in ancient Greek and Roman times whilst comparing this with our current understanding of the field. In this way, ancient texts, namely Greek and Latin ones, are found to intersect with modern advanced disciplines, ranging from architecture to medicine to physics. This allows us not only to understand how natural observation has evolved from antiquity to today, but also how such a highly interdisciplinary research network has been spun by some shared conceptual threads.
Shaping Education Policy of Home-School Cooperation in China’s Preschool Education: Trends and Strategies
Authors: Li Jian
Published: March 2021

Preschool education is the beginning of individual development, which directly affects the subsequent primary education, secondary education, higher education and even the lifelong development of individuals. This study explores the education policy development of China’s home-school cooperation in the field of preschool education. The trends and strategies of home-school cooperation in China’s preschool education are also investigated in this study.
Agrostis barikii (Poaceae: Agrostidinae), a new grass species from Western Himalaya, India

Authors: PRASAD DILESHWAR , YADAV REKHA , JAISWAL SHUBHAM , TRIPATHI SHAILJA , AGNIHOTRI PRIYANKA
Published: March 2021

A newly discovered species of the genus Agrostis from Western Himalaya is here described and illustrated. The new species, Agrostis barikii, is considered as a member of Agrostis pilosula group and morphologically closely allied to Agrostis griffithiana by its palea 2/3 the length of the lemma and well-developed awn. However, they differ from the latter by means of the shape of the ligule, length of the lower glume, apex of the lemma, and size of anthers. Data on distribution, habitat and phenology is given along with a photo plate and an illustration.
Taxonomic and nomenclatural novelties in Leucoagaricus (Agaricaceae) from Brazil
Authors: HEISECKE CELESTE , BARBOSA JAIME ANDRÉS DUQUE , NEVES MARIA ALICE , CARVALHO JR ANIBAL ALVES DE
Published: March 2021

Leucoagaricus nzumbae sp. nov. (Agaricaceae) is described based on morphological and molecular data from Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This species is characterized by the delicate small basidiomes that turn completely lilac when dried, brownish color of the pileus surface, and trichodermal elements with intracellular and parietal brown pigments of the pileus covering. A lectotype and an epitype are designated for Leucoagaricus gongylophorus, a symbiotic fungus of leaf-cutting ants. Full description, nomenclatural notes, and illustrations of fresh basidiomes in situ and of the main macro-and micromorphological features of both species are provided.