bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Repair of Posterior Urethral Distraction Defects and its Outcome : Initial Experience in a Tertiary Level Hospital
Authors: Morshed Md Selim , Asad Hafiz Al , Naser Md Fazal , Karmaker Uttam , Belal Md Towhid , Alam Md Saruar
Published: December 2020

Purpose: Management of posterior urethral distraction defects are challenging for urologists and need very careful and meticulous dissection for getting a good outcome. Dhaka medical college hospital is a tertiary referral hospital where we receive a lot of cases from different districts. The study was done to observe the outcome of anastomotic urethroplasty for posterior urethral distraction defects. Methods : This was a prospective experimental study. This study was done in a single unit of DMCH urology department by a single surgeon . Those who were suffering from posterior urethral distraction defects with suprapubic catheter in situ were included and underwent anastomotic urethroplasty from the period of January, 2018 to october, 2019. After proper evaluation and counseling all patients underwent perineal anastomotic urethroplasty under spinal anesthesia with 6-8 interrupted suture, using 4/0 vicryl. A 14 Fr Foley catheter was placed in urethral lumen and 16 Fr catheter in SPC site. A latex strip drain was placed for perineal wound. Drain was removed after 48 hours of operation . Patients were usually discharged in between 5th to 7th POD with definite follow up protocol and medications with supra pubic catheters (SPC) and per urethral catheters in situ. On 21 POD urethral catheter was removed. SPC was removed after 7 days if patient can void normally. 1st and 2nd follow up were done at the completion of 3rd and 6th month respectively. The prevalence of post-operative sexual disorders was investigated using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire during follow-up. If the patient can able to void per urethra in a well manner and Qmax>15 mL/s then repair was defined successful.
Result : Success rate of perineal anastomotic urethroplasty for posterior urethral distraction defect was 83.33.%. 18 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 28.27 years. 17 patients were able to void successfully after surgical procedure but among those 2 patients had urinary flow rate < 15 ml/sec and one patient didn’t able to void. 3 patients had developed wound infection, 3 patients developed erectile dysfunction.
Conclusion : Perineal anastomotic urethroplasty is gold standard for treatment of posterior urethral distraction defects. Long term follow up is needed to give a opinion regarding the ultimate outcome of the surgical procedure and that have give a good idea for future management.
Bangladesh Journal of Urology, Vol. 23, No. 2, July 2020 p.193-198
A Case Report on Bilateral Adrenal Histoplasmosis
Authors: Hossain Md Sazzad , Hasan Mohammad Zahid , Haque Mir Ehteshamul , Maoya Mostakim
Published: December 2020

Disseminated histoplasmosis affecting the adrenal glands is a very rare infection and an uncommon cause of adrenal insufficiency. We present a case of bilateral adrenal histoplasmosis in a 77 years old immunosuppressed patient who presented with bilateral adrenal masses. The fine needle aspiration cytology of the adrenal mass was positive for Histoplasma capsulatum.
Bangladesh Journal of Urology, Vol. 23, No. 2, July 2020 p.210-212
Phytochemical and Biological Studies of Bark Extract of Miliusa velutina (Dunal) Hook. f. & Thomson
Authors: Fahad Titumeer Al , Kuddus Md Ruhul , Hasan Choudhury M
Published: December 2020

The main objective of the current research was phytochemical and biological studies of the stem bark of Miliusa velutina (Dunal) Hook. f. & Thomson (Annonaceae). Four purified compounds i.e., friedelin, lupeol, β- sitosterone and caffeic acid were isolated by repeated chromatographic separation and purification of M. velutina. The compounds were identified by analysis of NMR spectral data. The crude dichloromethane extract of stem bark of M. velutina (DEMV) along with its Kupchan partitionates i.e., petroleum ether (PESF), ethyl acetate (EASF), chloroform (CSF) and aqueous (AQSF) soluble fraction were screened for antioxidant, cytotoxic, thrombolytic and antibacterial activities. During the antioxidant activity assay, the AQSF revealed maximum activity with IC50 value of 71.67 μg/ml. The cytotoxicity of plant samples was determined by brine shrimp lethality bioassay, where the maximum cytotoxic activity has been observed for EASF (LC90 = 9.01 μg/ml). In the thrombolytic activity test, the crude dichloromethane extract demonstrated significant efficacy with 46.27% inhibition of clot lysis. In antibacterial screening, the CSF exhibited noticeable inhibitory activity against Shigella boydii with the zone of inhibition 15 mm compared to the standard ciprofloxacin (zone of inhibition = 47 mm).

Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 19(2): 125-131, 2020 (December)
Condomless sex in Internet-based sex work: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Passos Taciana Silveira , Almeida-Santos Marcos Antonio
Published: December 2020

Objective: Meta-analyze the proportion of condomless sex traded on the Internet according to the offer on websites advertising sex work and demand in customer forums; and to examine the relationship between condomless sex and the type of sex, target-group, gender and actors involved. Methodology: Data was collected from PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect from the inception of each database to 06 March 2020, in English, Spanish and Portuguese. The effect size was the proportion itself, and the dispersion was measured under 95% confidence intervals. Results: From 2041 articles, 16 studies met the inclusion criteria of the systematic review with 10,190 recruited individuals and 20,363 prostitution advertisements.  The estimate of condomless sex trade was 0.25 (95%CI=0.17–0.34). The heterosexual-oral subgroup (0.35; 95%CI=0.18–0.52; p<0.001) and the clients (0.31; 95%CI=0.20–0.59; p=0.037) showed a significant increase in the proportion. Conclusion: The condomless sex trade was reported in one quarter of the population. Heterosexuals who practice oral sex and clients are the main predictors of condomless sex in the Internet-based sex work.
Usos múltiplos da água na Bacia do Rio Puraquequara, Manaus, Amazonas
Authors: Neves Renato Kennedy Ribeiro , Batista Ieda Hortêncio , Viana Álefe Lopes , Souza Filho Elton Alves de , Albuquerque Carlossandro Carvalho de , Silva José Roselito Carmelo da , Lins Neto Nelson Felipe de Albuquerque , Neves Eduardo Papi Lemos das
Published: December 2020

Uma Bacia Hidrográfica é parte integrante da paisagem, ela possibilita interações biofísicas, sociais e de planejamento territorial. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo identificar e caracterizar os usos múltiplos da água na Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Puraquequara, em Manaus. Para isso, primeiramente foi realizado o levantamento de dados cartográficos, além de consultas em materiais bibliográficos. Em seguida, foram realizadas duas visitas técnicas, sendo uma no período da cheia e outra durante a vazante. Assim, foi possível a elaboração dos mapas temáticos e cartas-imagens, o que permitiu identificar inicialmente os usos da água na bacia. Para identificação dos demais usos, foram realizadas visitas técnicas por via terrestre e por via fluvial, percorrendo 7 km do rio principal, sentido jusante à montante, adquirindo coordenadas geográficas. Os resultados obtidos comprovaram que a bacia do rio Puraquequara exerce influência direta na sustentabilidade das atividades econômicas e subsistência, tornando-se o uso da água vital para o desenvolvimento das populações locais. Ficou constatado que há cenários heterogêneos de uso para a bacia. Atividades de irrigação, exploração de areia, represamento de afluentes por meio de barramento, escavação de tanques para criação de peixes estão à jusante. À montante, há o predomínio de comunidades ribeirinhas, flutuantes, indústria frigorífica e indústria naval.
LIVED EXPERIENCES OF ELDERLY REMARRIED WIDOWS: ADJUSTMENT AND COPING TO NEW ROLES AS BI-PARENT
Authors: Mangarun Abdullah Junior Serad
Published: December 2020

Background: At present, the existing studies which explore the factors influencing elderly widows to remarry and their achievement towards successful step-parenthood are limited. Remarriage and step-parenthood are integrated into the complexities of the social phenomena in human experiences, which entail coping and adjustments to life changes.

Objective: The study explored the lived experiences of elderly widows regarding coping and adjustments to remarriage and step-parenting as new roles.

Methods: The study made use of a phenomenological approach, particularly the transcendental approach, to have a better understanding of their lived-experience after remarriage. Self-made open-ended questions were raised in the series of interviews using interview guides. The study was conducted in Iligan City, Philippines, where all the six participants reside. Purposive sampling was used wherein participants are selected based on criteria necessary to answer the objectives of the study: (1) He/ she should be at least 60 years of age; (2) must be remarried after the death of the previous spouse; and, (3) must be a bi-parent. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis.

Result: Three themes emerged in all interviews: (1) adjusting to a new marital role, (2) sharing responsible parenthood, and (3) rewarding new parental role. Results highlighted bi-parenting among elderly widows as an aptly complex lived- experience as widows enter remarriage.

Conclusion: It is concluded that the remarried widows view life after remarriage with the new family and children as a positive experience despite the challenges. Remarriage and being with another family can improve the wellbeing of the elderly widows. Having children and a new partner around is an opportunity to bring back a complete family structure together. This research recommends further that the understanding of their experiences and phenomena should be the basis of identifying their status. Researchers and clinicians should provide essential information to elderly remarried widows about the healthy and proper coping and adjustment to this life-changing event.
Host Antiviral Response Suppresses Ciliogenesis and Motile Ciliary Functions in the Nasal Epithelium
Authors: Chen Qianmin , Tan Kai Sen , Liu Jing , Ong Hsiao Hui , Zhou Suizi , Huang Hongming , Chen Hailing , Ong Yew Kwang , Thong Mark , Chow Vincent T. , Qiu Qianhui , Wang De-Yun
Published: December 2020

Background

Respiratory viral infections are one of the main drivers of development and exacerbation for chronic airway inflammatory diseases. Increased viral susceptibility and impaired mucociliary clearance are often associated with chronic airway inflammatory diseases and served as risk factors of exacerbations. However, the links between viral susceptibility, viral clearance, and impaired mucociliary functions are unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study is to provide the insights into the effects of improper clearance of respiratory viruses from the epithelium following infection, and their resulting persistent activation of antiviral response, on mucociliary functions.

Methods

In order to investigate the effects of persistent antiviral responses triggered by viral components from improper clearance on cilia formation and function, we established an in vitro air–liquid interface (ALI) culture of human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) and used Poly(I:C) as a surrogate of viral components to simulate their effects toward re-epithelization and mucociliary functions of the nasal epithelium following damages from a viral infection.

Results

Through previous and current viral infection expression data, we found that respiratory viral infection of hNECs downregulated motile cilia gene expression. We then further tested the effects of antiviral response activation on the differentiation of hNECs using Poly(I:C) stimulation on differentiating human nasal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (hNESPCs). Using this model, we observed reduced ciliated cell differentiation compared to goblet cells, reduced protein and mRNA in ciliogenesis-associated markers, and increased mis-assembly and mis-localization of ciliary protein DNAH5 following treatment with 25 μg/ml Poly(I:C) in differentiating hNECs. Additionally, the cilia length and ciliary beat frequency (CBF) were also decreased, which suggest impairment of ciliary function as well.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the impairments of ciliogenesis and ciliary function in hNECs may be triggered by specific expression of host antiviral response genes during re-epithelization of the nasal epithelium following viral infection. This event may in turn drive the development and exacerbation of chronic airway inflammatory diseases.
Imperatorin Ameliorates the Aging-Associated Porcine Oocyte Meiotic Spindle Defects by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Protecting Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Luo Dan , Zhang Jia-bao , Li Sheng-peng , Liu Wen , Yao Xue-rui , Guo Hao , Jin Zhe-long , Jin Yong-xun , Yuan Bao , Jiang Hao , Kim Nam-Hyung
Published: December 2020

Imperatorin (IMP) exhibits a variety of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and anti-hypertension activities. However, its effects on animal reproduction systems, especially oocyte development, maturation, and aging are not yet clear. In this study, the effects of IMP on oocyte development and aging as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms were explored. Oocytes were cultured for an additional 24 h for aging. Results revealed that the blastocyst formation and hatching rates of embryos, which were parthenogenetically activated aged oocytes, were significantly increased with IMP treatment (40 μM). Simultaneously, well-distributed cortical granules but no significant difference in zona pellucida hardness were observed after IMP treatment. During this stage, intracellular reactive oxygen species, apoptosis, and autophagy levels were decreased, while mitochondrial membrane potential, glutathione level, and activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase were increased. IMP-treated aged oocytes also showed significantly higher expression of MOS, CCNB1, BMP15, and GDF9 than non-IMP-treated aged oocytes although their levels were still lower than those in the fresh oocytes. These results suggest that IMP can effectively ameliorate the quality of aged porcine oocytes by reducing oxidative stress and protecting mitochondrial function.
Regulation of Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain Complex Levels, Organization, and Function by Arginyltransferase 1
Authors: Jiang Chunhua , Moorthy Balaji T. , Patel Devang M. , Kumar Akhilesh , Morgan William M. , Alfonso Belkis , Huang Jingyu , Lampidis Theodore J. , Isom Daniel G. , Barrientos Antoni , Fontanesi Flavia , Zhang Fangliang
Published: December 2020

Arginyltransferase 1 (ATE1) is an evolutionary-conserved eukaryotic protein that localizes to the cytosol and nucleus. It is the only known enzyme in metazoans and fungi that catalyzes posttranslational arginylation. Lack of arginylation has been linked to an array of human disorders, including cancer, by altering the response to stress and the regulation of metabolism and apoptosis. Although mitochondria play relevant roles in these processes in health and disease, a causal relationship between ATE1 activity and mitochondrial biology has yet to be established. Here, we report a phylogenetic analysis that traces the roots of ATE1 to alpha-proteobacteria, the mitochondrion microbial ancestor. We then demonstrate that a small fraction of ATE1 localizes within mitochondria. Furthermore, the absence of ATE1 influences the levels, organization, and function of respiratory chain complexes in mouse cells. Specifically,ATE1-KO mouse embryonic fibroblasts have increased levels of respiratory supercomplexes I+III2+IVn. However, they have decreased mitochondrial respiration owing to severely lowered complex II levels, which leads to accumulation of succinate and downstream metabolic effects. Taken together, our findings establish a novel pathway for mitochondrial function regulation that might explain ATE1-dependent effects in various disease conditions, including cancer and aging, in which metabolic shifts are part of the pathogenic or deleterious underlying mechanism.
Impact of Climate Change on Metal and Suspended Sediment Concentrations in Urban Waters
Authors: Frogner-Kockum Paul , Göransson Gunnel , Haeger-Eugensson Marie
Published: December 2020

In order to study the impact of climate change on metal contaminant transport in urban waters and its relevance for water quality, we have analyzed variations in metal- and suspended sediment concentrations (SSC) in three urban rivers and one small creek in the Gothenburg region during various hydrological events such as spring flood, dry period, and wet period. To interpret river loads of metals and SSC we have furthermore followed meteorological trends since 1961 and additionally calculated future trends for the Gothenburg region, located on the west coast of Sweden. During periods of a short-term increase in precipitation we found an increased particle bound metal transport in urban watercourses of the Göta Älv River. In addition, a correlation between studied parameters indicates that surface runoff from brownfields most likely is the main source to the increased transport of pollutants in river systems rather than re-suspension of polluted river sediment.
Machine Learning Models to Predict Primary Sites of Metastatic Cervical Carcinoma From Unknown Primary
Authors: Lu Di , Jiang Jianjun , Liu Xiguang , Wang He , Feng Siyang , Shi Xiaoshun , Wang Zhizhi , Chen Zhiming , Yan Xuebin , Wu Hua , Cai Kaican
Published: December 2020

Metastatic cervical carcinoma from unknown primary (MCCUP) accounts for 1–4% of all head and neck tumors, and identifying the primary site in MCCUP is challenging. The most common histopathological type of MCCUP is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and it remains difficult to identify the primary site pathologically. Therefore, it seems necessary and urgent to develop novel and effective methods to determine the primary site in MCCUP. In the present study, the RNA sequencing data of four types of SCC and Pan-Cancer from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) were obtained. And after data pre-processing, their differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, respectively. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis indicated that these significantly changed genes of four types of SCC share lots of similar molecular functions and histological features. Then three machine learning models, [Random Forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and neural network (NN)] which consisted of ten genes to distinguish these four types of SCC were developed. Among the three models with prediction tests, the RF model worked best in the external validation set, with an overall predictive accuracy of 88.2%, sensitivity of 88.71%, and specificity of 95.42%. The NN model is the second in efficacy, with an overall accuracy of 82.02%, sensitivity of 81.23%, and specificity of 93.04%. The SVM model is the last, with an overall accuracy of 76.69%, sensitivity of 74.81%, and specificity of 90.84%. The present analysis of similarities and differences among the four types of SCC, and novel models developments for distinguishing four types of SCC with informatics methods shed lights on precision MCCUP diagnosis in the future.
Bidirectional Action of Cenicriviroc, a CCR2/CCR5 Antagonist, Results in Alleviation of Pain-Related Behaviors and Potentiation of Opioid Analgesia in Rats With Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Kwiatkowski Klaudia , Pawlik Katarzyna , Ciapała Katarzyna , Piotrowska Anna , Makuch Wioletta , Mika Joanna
Published: December 2020

Clinical management of neuropathic pain is unsatisfactory, mainly due to its resistance to the effects of available analgesics, including opioids. Converging evidence indicates the functional interactions between chemokine and opioid receptors and their influence on nociceptive processes. Recent studies highlight that the CC chemokine receptors type 2 (CCR2) and 5 (CCR5) seem to be of particular interest. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of the dual CCR2/CCR5 antagonist, cenicriviroc, on pain-related behaviors, neuroimmune processes, and the efficacy of opioids in rats after chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. To define the mechanisms of action of cenicriviroc, we studied changes in the activation/influx of glial and immune cells and, simultaneously, the expression level of CCR2, CCR5, and important pronociceptive cytokines in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG). We demonstrated that repeated intrathecal injections of cenicriviroc, in a dose-dependent manner, alleviated hypersensitivity to mechanical and thermal stimuli in rats after sciatic nerve injury, as measured by von Frey and cold plate tests. Behavioral effects were associated with the beneficial impact of cenicriviroc on the activation/influx level of C1q/IBA-1-positive cells in the spinal cord and/or DRG and GFAP-positive cells in DRG. In parallel, administration of cenicriviroc decreased the expression of CCR2 in the spinal cord and CCR5 in DRG. Concomitantly, we observed that the level of important pronociceptive factors (e.g., IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-18, and CCL3) were increased in the lumbar spinal cord and/or DRG 7 days following injury, and cenicriviroc was able to prevent these changes. Additionally, repeated administration of this dual CCR2/CCR5 antagonist enhanced the analgesic effects of morphine and buprenorphine in neuropathic rats, which can be associated with the ability of cenicriviroc to prevent nerve injury-induced downregulation of all opioid receptors at the DRG level. Overall, our results suggest that pharmacological modulation based on the simultaneous blockade of CCR2 and CCR5 may serve as an innovative strategy for the treatment of neuropathic pain, as well as in combination with opioids.
Conversion of Rutin, a Prevalent Dietary Flavonol, by the Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Riva Alessandra , Kolimár Ditta , Spittler Andreas , Wisgrill Lukas , Herbold Craig W. , Abrankó László , Berry David
Published: December 2020

The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the conversion of dietary flavonoids, which can affect their bioavailability and bioactivity and thereby their health-promoting properties. The ability of flavonoids to metabolically-activate the microbiota has, however, not been systematically evaluated. In the present study, we used a fluorescence-based single-cell activity measure [biorthogonal non-canonical ammino acid-tagging (BONCAT)] combined with fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) to determine which microorganisms are metabolically-active after amendment of the flavonoid rutin. We performed anaerobic incubations of human fecal microbiota amended with rutin and in the presence of the cellular activity marker L-azidohomoalanine (AHA) to detect metabolically-active cells. We found that 7.3% of cells in the gut microbiota were active after a 6 h incubation and 26.9% after 24 h. We then sorted BONCAT-positive cells and observed an enrichment of Lachnospiraceae (Lachnoclostridium and Eisenbergiella), Enterobacteriaceae, Tannerellaceae, and Erysipelotrichaceae species in the rutin-responsive fraction of the microbiota. There was marked inter-individual variability in the appearance of rutin conversion products after incubation with rutin. Consistent with this, there was substantial variability in the abundance of rutin-responsive microbiota among different individuals. Specifically, we observed that Enterobacteriaceae were associated with conversion of rutin into quercetin-3-glucoside (Q-glc) and Lachnospiraceae were associated with quercetin (Q) production. This suggests that individual microbiotas differ in their ability to metabolize rutin and utilize different conversion pathways.
Selection of Effective Therapies Using Three-Dimensional in vitro Modeling of Chondrosarcoma
Authors: Palubeckaitė Ieva , Venneker Sanne , Briaire-de Bruijn Inge H. , van den Akker Brendy E. , Krol Augustinus D. , Gelderblom Hans , Bovée Judith V. M. G.
Published: December 2020

Purpose:Chondrosarcomas are a group of cartilaginous malignant neoplasms characterized by the deposition of chondrogenic extracellular matrix. Surgical resection is currently the only curative treatment option, due to their high resistance to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Novel therapeutic treatment options may improve outcome. Predominantly used cell line monolayerin vitromodels lackin vivocomplexity, such as the presence of extracellular matrix, and differing oxygen access. Hence, we aimed to improve pre-clinical chondrosarcoma research by developing an alginate-based 3D cell culture model.

Method:An alginate scaffold was applied to generate spheroids of three chondrosarcoma cell lines (CH2879, JJ012, SW1353). Morphological, histological and immunohistochemical assessment of the spheroids were used to characterize the chondrosarcoma model. Presto blue assay, morphological and immunohistochemical assessment were applied to assess spheroid response to a panel of chemotherapeutics and targeted therapies, which was compared to conventional 2D monolayer models. Synergistic effect of doxorubicin and ABT-737 (Bcl-2 inhibitor) was compared between monolayer and spheroid models using excess over Bliss. A 3D colony formation assay was developed for assessment of radiotherapy response.

Results:Chondrosarcoma spheroids produced chondrogenic matrix and remained proliferative after 2 weeks of culture. When treated with chemotherapeutics, the spheroids were more resistant than their monolayer counterparts, in line with animal models and clinical data. Moreover, for sapanisertib (mTOR inhibitor) treatment, a recovery in chondrosarcoma growth, previously observed in mice models, was also observed using long-term treatment. Morphological assessment was useful in the case of YM-155 (survivin inhibitor) treatment where a fraction of the spheroids underwent cell death, however a large fraction remained proliferative and unaffected. Synergy was less pronounced in 3D compared to 2D. A 3D clonogenic assay confirmed increased resistance to radiotherapy in 3D chondrosarcoma spheroids.

Conclusion:We demonstrate that the chondrosarcoma alginate spheroid model is more representative of chondrosarcomain vivoand should be used instead of the monolayer model for therapy testing. Improved selection atin vitrostage of therapeutic testing will increase the amount of information available for experimental design ofin vivoanimal testing and later, clinical stages. This can potentially lead to increased likelihood of approval and success at clinical trials.
Associations Between Amantadine Usage, Gait, and Cognition in PSP: A post-hoc Analysis of the Davunetide Trial
Authors: Dale Marian L. , Brumbach Barbara H. , Boxer Adam L. , Hiller Amie L.
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Amantadine anecdotally improves gait in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) but definitive data is lacking. We investigated associations between amantadine usage, gait, cognition, and activities of daily living in 310 subjects with PSP using data from the davunetide trial.

Method: We compared baseline demographics, PSP Rating Scale (PSPRS), Repeat Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), and Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living (SEADL) scores between subjects taking vs. not taking amantadine using chi-square tests for categorical variables and independent sample t-tests for continuous variables. Using the general linear model (GLM), we tested whether group status predicted total PSPRS, PSPRS-gait and midline, total RBANS, RBANS-attention, and SEADL before and after the 52-weeks follow-up.

Results: Subjects taking vs. not taking amantadine were similar at baseline, except subjects taking amantadine had a higher Clinical Global Impression (CGI) Score (p = 0.01). However, the CGI change score did not differ between groups at week 52 (p = 0.10). Using GLM models (controlling for covariates), we found that subjects taking vs. not taking amantadine did not significantly predict total PSPRS, PSPRS-gait and midline, total RBANS, RBANS-attention, or SEADL at baseline, week 52, or the change score between baseline and week 52.

Discussion: This post-hoc analysis of the davunetide trial did not find an association between amantadine and gait or cognitive measures in PSP, but was not powered to find such a difference. Future studies should still examine amantadine for symptomatic benefit in multiple PSP subtypes.
Polarization Independent Achromatic Meta-Lens Designed for the Terahertz Domain
Authors: Gao Yufei , Gu Jianqiang , Jia Ridong , Tian Zhen , Ouyang Chunmei , Han Jiaguang , Zhang Weili
Published: December 2020

In recent years, metasurface-based focusing elements have gradually become an indispensable type of terahertz lenses. However, the meta-lens often suffers from chromatic aberration due to the intrinsic dispersion of each element, especially in the broadband application scenarios. In this paper, we design and demonstrate a silicon-based achromatic meta-lens working from 0.6 to 1.0 THz, which is polarization insensitive because of the adopted symmetrical structures. The simulated focal length and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the foci at different frequencies prove the achromatic behavior of our meta-lens compared with the chromatic counterpart. We also show that the focus shift incongruence of our design originates from the transmission amplitude distribution of the meta-lens. This article not only provides an achromatic planar lens working at terahertz domain but also reveals the importance of the amplitude distribution in the achromatic metasurface design.
The Generalization of Conscious Attentional Avoidance in Response to Threat Among Breast Cancer Women With Persistent Distress
Authors: Ng Danielle Wing Lam , Fielding Richard , Lam Wendy Wing Tak
Published: December 2020

Objectives

A sample of women with persistent distress following breast cancer (BC) previously exhibited attentional bias (AB) away from supraliminally presented cancer-or threat-related information, responses consistent with avoidance coping, and showed negative interpretation bias. Here, we attempt to characterize the nature of supraliminal AB and interpretation bias in that sample of women by comparing against healthy controls.

Methods

Extending our previous work, we compared AB patterns for supraliminally presented negatively valenced words and cancer-related information (CRI) assessed by modified dot-probe tasks and negative interpretation bias assessed by an ambiguous cue task between 140 BC women previously identified as featuring low-stable or persistent high anxiety and 150 age-matched non-BC healthy controls having HADS-defined low or high anxiety (HADS-anxiety scores = 8).

Results

Attentional avoidance of non-cancer-related negatively valenced words was seen among the anxious BC group, while heightened attention toward such words was seen in anxious healthy controls, F(3, 282) = 3.97, p = 0.009. However, all anxious women in both BC and healthy groups directed attention away from CRI under supraliminal conditions. Interpretation bias scores were significantly higher in BC women with high anxiety vs. healthy controls with high anxiety, F(3, 282) = 13.26, p < 0.001.

Conclusion

Women with high anxiety generalized conscious attentional avoidance responses to negatively valenced stimuli, indicating a likely hypersensitivity to potential threat in ambiguous cues and exaggerated threat perception. This may cause (or reflect) maladaptive emotional regulation. Attention focus training, reducing threat salience or modifying threat appraisal, may help women alleviate anxiety levels after BC.
Physical Activity and Well-Being of High Ability Students and Community Samples During the COVID-19 Health Alert
Authors: Valadez María de los Dolores , Rodríguez-Naveiras Elena , Castellanos-Simons Doris , López-Aymes Gabriela , Aguirre Triana , Flores Juan Francisco , Borges África
Published: December 2020

The health alert caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown have caused significant changes in people’s lives. Therefore, it has been essential to study the quality of life, especially in vulnerable populations, including children and adolescents. In this work, the psychological well-being, distribution of tasks and routines, as well as the physical activity done by children and adolescents from two samples: community and high abilities, have been analyzed. The methodology used was Mixed Method Research, through a survey conducted online through social networks. The informants were the parents of the children and adolescents, 209 in the community sample and 116 in the high ability sample. The instrument used was a questionnaire implemented through Google Forms, with open and closed questions, including the Kidscreen-27 scale to measure well-being. The assessment of the adequacy of the physical activity levels was analyzed through ALCESTE. The results showed the absence of differences between students from community samples and those with high capacities in well-being and physical activity. Parents residing in Spain observed less play time in the high ability sample, and more time spent on homework, whether or not they have a diagnosis of high ability. It is concluded that these results question the misconceptions held about high ability students in terms of poorer personal adjustment and better interest in physical activities.
Habitual Routines and Automatic Tendencies Differential Roles in Alcohol Misuse Among Undergraduates
Authors: Wyckmans Florent , Chatard Armand , Saeremans Mélanie , Kornreich Charles , Jaafari Nemat , Fantini-Hauwel Carole , Noël Xavier
Published: December 2020

There is a debate over whether actions that resist devaluation (i.e., compulsive alcohol consumption) are primarily habit- or goal-directed. The incentive habit account of compulsive actions has received support from behavioral paradigms and brain imaging. In addition, the self-reported Creature of Habit Scale (COHS) has been proposed to capture inter-individual differences in habitual tendencies. It is subdivided into two dimensions: routine and automaticity. We first considered a French version of this questionnaire for validation, based on a sample of 386 undergraduates. The relationship between two dimensions of habit and the risk of substance use disorder and impulsive personality traits was also investigated. COHS has good psychometric properties with both features of habits positively associated with an Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory score. Besides, the propensity to rely more on routines was associated with lower levels of alcohol abuse and nicotine use, suggesting that some degree of routine might act as a protective factor against substance use. In contrast, a high automaticity score was associated with an increased risk of harmful alcohol use. These results demonstrate that the COHS is a valid measure of habitual tendencies and represents a useful tool for capturing inter-individual variations in drug use problems in undergraduates.
Contextualized School-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Intervention for Malaysian Secondary School Students
Authors: Saw Jo Anne , Tam Cai Lian , Thanzami Vanlal , Bonn Gregory
Published: December 2020

This study investigates the effectiveness of the school-based Shine Through Any Roadblocks (STAR) CBT intervention, by a screening conducted on 634 students from eight secondary schools in Malaysia. Participants (n = 85) who fulfilled the eligibility criteria were assigned randomly to either the intervention group (n = 42) or the assessment-only waitlist control group (n = 43). The intervention consisted of eight group-based sessions over a period of 2 months. Sessions were 60-min each and conducted according to the STAR module. Outcome measures (depressive symptoms and automatic negative thoughts) were administered at five intervals: baseline/pre-intervention, mid-intervention, post-intervention, 1-month after intervention, and 3-months after intervention. Results showed significant and lasting lower levels of depressive symptoms and automatic negative thoughts in the intervention group, indicating that the STAR intervention could be an effective means of reducing depressive symptomatology among adolescents. Clinical implications for the Malaysian secondary school context are further discussed.
Head-Only Stunning of Turkeys Part 1: The Minimum Voltage Necessary to Break Down the Inherent High Resistance
Authors: Wotton Steve , Grist Andrew , O’Callaghan Mike , van Klink Ed
Published: December 2020

Pre-slaughter stunning is required for humane slaughter. For turkeys, head-only electrical stunning is most often used by small scale producers. To ensure immediate and effective stunning, the impedance (resistance) of the tissue of the head of the animal situated between the two electrodes needs to be overcome swiftly. The impedance is a function of the voltage and decreases non-linearly with increasing voltage. In this paper, we describe a method to assess the minimum voltage needed at which the impedance no longer decreases, that is likely to produce an effective stun. For ethical reasons, gas stunned, electrically naïve turkeys were used to measure impedance at various levels of voltage and current. Several combinations of voltage and frequency, alternate current (AC), direct current (DC) and pulsed DC, were identified that would be sufficient to achieve the maximum decrease in the impedance, and therefore would allow the highest current and the most effective stun. A minimum, expressed as Root Mean Squared voltage, of 150 V and 50 Hz. would be required in AC, 175 V in pulsed DC at 30% cycle (150 at 50% cycle), and 225 V if voltage spikes of very short duration were used. Sinusoidal AC applied at 150 V, 50 Hz was selected for further testing.
A Cross Sectional Study on Serological Prevalence of Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia conorii in Different Canine Population of Sicily (South-Italy) during 2017–2019
Authors: Migliore Sergio , Gargano Valeria , De Maria Claudia , Gambino Delia , Gentile Antonino , Vitale Badaco Valeria , Schirò Giorgia , Mira Francesco , Galluzzo Paola , Vicari Domenico , Di Bella Santina
Published: December 2020

Vector-borne pathogens such as Erlichia canis and Rickettsia conorii are widespread in the Mediterranean basin. Rhipicephalus sanguineus, is considered the main vector in Mediterranean climatic areas. Seroprevalence in dogs is variable in relation to environmental factors, presence of vectors, and dogs’ management. We investigated the seroprevalence in Sicilian dogs during 2017–2019, considering temporal as well as spatial variations, and different canine population. A total of 11,009 sera were analyzed: 7568 and 3441 sera were tested to detect antibodies to E. canis and to R. conorii, respectively, by immunofluorescence assay. The rainfall average in the sampling sites during the three-year period was also considered. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square tests for association between two or more variables. We reported a prevalence of 29.6% and 53.6% for E. canis and R. conorii, respectively. Significant temporal variation was found in R. conorii, while significant difference was found considering canine population and spatial variation regarding both pathogens. Our study updates the previous results of E. canis and R. conorii seroprevalence in dogs in Sicily, and confirms the wide distribution of these pathogens. In addition, we considered, for the first time, three different variables to identify the areas and the canine populations most exposed to risk.
Evaluation of Redox Profiles of the Serum and Aqueous Humor in Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Exfoliation Glaucoma
Authors: Takayanagi Yuji , Takai Yasuyuki , Kaidzu Sachiko , Tanito Masaki
Published: December 2020

Oxidative stress is thought to play a significant role in the development of glaucoma. However, the association between systemic and local oxidative stresses in different types of glaucoma has not been assessed fully. The current study compared the redox status in the aqueous humor (AH) and blood samples among eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), exfoliation glaucoma (EXG), and non-glaucomatous controls to evaluate the relationship among systemic redox status, intraocular oxidative stress, and clinical backgrounds. AH and blood samples were obtained from 45 eyes of 45 Japanese subjects (15 POAG, 15 EXG, and 15 control eyes). The serum levels of lipid peroxides, ferric-reducing activity, and thiol antioxidant activity were measured by diacron reactive oxygen metabolites (dROM), biologic antioxidant potential (BAP), and sulfhydryl (SH) tests, respectively, using a free radical analyzer. The activities of cytosolic and mitochondrial forms of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) isoforms, i.e., SOD1 and SOD2, respectively, in AH and serum were measured using a multiplex bead immunoassay. In AH, SOD1 in subjects with EXG and SOD2 in those with POAG and EXG were significantly higher than in control eyes. In serum, compared to control subjects, BAP in subjects with POAG and EXG was significantly lower; SOD1 in those with EXG and SOD2 in those with POAG and EXG were significantly higher. dROM and SH did not differ significantly among the groups. The BAP values were correlated negatively with the SOD1 concentrations in AH and serum, SOD2 in the AH, intraocular pressure, and number of antiglaucoma medications. In conclusion, lower systemic antioxidant capacity accompanies up-regulation of higher local antioxidant enzymes, suggesting increased oxidative stress in eyes with OAG, especially in EXG. Determination of the systemic BAP values may help predict the redox status in AH.
Analysis of Selected Properties of Fruits of Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) from Organic and Conventional Cultivation
Authors: Trenka Magdalena , Nawirska-Olszańska Agnieszka , Oziembłowski Maciej
Published: December 2020

Chokeberry fruits can be treated as very rich sources of bioactive compounds and, therefore, have a very high biological value. The purpose of the study was to compare selected chemical and physical properties of chokeberry fruits, both from organic and conventional cultivations located near Cracow. Chemical composition of the fruit, content of the antioxidant activity, bioactive compounds, and ultra-weak luminescence were analyzed. It was proved that chokeberry fruits are rich in bioactive compounds and that ecological crops produce fruits with a higher level of such compounds. Chokeberry fruits from organic farms were proven to have a higher content of bioactive ingredients and antioxidant activity than in traditionally grown fruits. The total amount of sugars was ambiguous because both the highest and the lowest values were determined in fruits from traditional cultivation. Photon emissivity determined on the basis of ultra-weak luminescence was higher in fruits from organic cultivations. A very high correlation was also found between the photon emissivity and the content of polyphenols as well as the antioxidant activity.
How to Confer a Permanent Bio-Repelling and Bio-Adhesive Character to Biomedical Materials through Cold Plasmas
Authors: Sardella Eloisa , Gristina Roberto , Fanelli Fiorenza , Veronico Valeria , Da Ponte Gabriella , Kroth Jennifer , Fracassi Francesco , Favia Pietro
Published: December 2020

Plasma Enhanced–Chemical Vapor Deposition (PE-CVD) of polyethylene oxide-like (PEO)-like coatings represent a successful strategy to address cell-behavior on biomaterials. Indeed, one of the main drawbacks of organic and hydrophilic films, like PEO-like ones, often consists in their poor adhesion to the substrate, especially in biological fluids where the biomaterial is required to operate. In this paper, low pressure (LP) and aerosol-assisted atmospheric pressure (aerosol-assisted AP) PE-CVD of PEO-like coatings is compared. The stability of the two different classes of coatings was investigated, both in water and in the cell culture media, during cell culture experiments. The obtained results show that, when deposited at atmospheric pressure (AP), the adhesion of the PEO-like coatings to the substrate has to be granted by an intermediate gradient layer. This interlayer can match the properties of the substrate with that of the topmost coatings, and, in turn, can dramatically improve the coating’s stability in complex biological fluids, like the cell culture medium. An accurate modulation of the experimental conditions, both at LP and AP, allowed control of the film chemical structure and surface properties, to permanently promote or discourage the cellular adhesion on the surfaces of biomaterials.
A Study on the Friction Stir Welding Experiment and Simulation of the Fillet Joint of Extruded Aluminum Material of Electric Vehicle Frame
Authors: Kim Hwanjin , Lee Kwangjin , Kim Jaewoong , Lee Changyeon , Jung Yoonchul , Kang Sungwook
Published: December 2020

In the existing automobile manufacturing process, metal inert gas (MIG) and tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding are mainly used. These welding methods are fusion welding, and the heat input in the welding area is very high. Therefore, the deformation of the base material is large, and the residual stress in the vicinity of the welded area is high, resulting in the problem of reduced mechanical strength. In this study, friction stir welding (FSW) was applied to the welding process of the structure constituting the battery frame of a newly developing electric vehicle to compensate for this problem. The welded part is the fillet joint of the side frame and the bottom frame, and experiments and numerical analysis were performed on the welding deformation and residual stress of the full frame structure. A specially manufactured angle head was used for friction stir welding of the fillet joint of extruded type aluminum, not the existing solid type. The optimum process was derived through experiments, and the temperature of the welding center was derived through test correlation between the value of measured temperature and the finite element model. The final deformation result was verified by comparing it with the measured value using a dial indicator. It is expected that the proposed thermal elasto-plastic analysis method will reduce the testing period and the cost of the manufacturing process and increase productivity.
Synthesis and Characterization of Mechanically Alloyed, Nanostructured Cubic MoW Carbide
Authors: Martinez Ruiz Martin , Rivera Olvera Jesús Noé , Morales Davila Rodolfo , González Reyes Leonardo , Garibay Febles Vicente , Garcia Martinez Jesus , Diaz Barriga Arceo Lucía G.
Published: December 2020

Carbides are used extensively as cutting tools, forming dies, and recently in catalysis applications, among other industrial applications. In this work, the synthesis and characterization of a nanostructured MoW bimetallic carbide were carried out by mechanical alloying with a mixture of elemental powders with a nominal composition of W1.5Mo6C2.5 at different grinding times as follows: 25, 50, and 75 h in a low-energy ball mill at a speed of 500 rpm and 125 and 150 h in a high-energy ball mill at a speed of 1500 rpm. The formation of a solid solution was observed at 150 h of milling; the nanostructured bcc MoW carbide corresponded to the main phase in the sample, besides the presence of the nanostructured MoW alloy as a secondary phase with an average crystal size of 40.8 nm. The phases and morphology at every stage of milling were studied by: X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and Vickers hardness. As the milling time increased, the hardness of these particles increased from 10.5 to 31.48 GPa for the powder particles milled for 150 h. The samples obtained at 125 and 150 h of milling were evaluated during catalytic aqua-thermolysis of heavy oil to analyze fuel desulfurization properties by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques. The results showed the breaking of S-S bonds, indicating the existence of a desulfurization reaction of heavy oil.