bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis of leptomeningeal metastasis through identification of circulating tumor cells in cerebrospinal fluid using the TargetSelector™ assay
Authors: Wooster Margaux , McGuinness Julia E. , Fenn Kathleen M. , Singh Veena M. , Franks Lauren E. , Lee Shing , Cieremans David , Lassman Andrew B. , Hershman Dawn L. , Crew Katherine D. , Accordino Melissa K. , Trivedi Meghna S. , Iwamoto Fabio , Welch Mary R. , Haggiagi Aya , Schultz Robbie D. , Huynh Lan , Sales Edgar , Fisher Deanna , Mayer Julie Ann , Kreisl Teri , Kalinsky Kevin
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Diagnosis of leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) is limited by low sensitivity of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytopathology. Detecting circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in CSF might be more sensitive. We evaluated if TargetSelector™ (TS), a novel assay that captures CTCs in peripheral blood, detects CTCs in CSF.Methods: We enrolled adults with metastatic solid tumors or primary CNS malignancies and clinical suspicion for LM to undergo lumbar puncture (LP) for CSF cytopathology and TS. TS captured CTCs using a primary 10-antibody mixture, streptavidin-coated microfluidic channel, and biotinylated secondary antibodies. CTCs from patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) were assessed for estrogen receptor (ER) expression by fluorescent antibody and HER2 amplification by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). CSF cell-free DNA (cfDNA) was extracted for next-generation sequencing (NGS). Results: Fourteen patients, median age 56 years (range, 32-75), underwent diagnostic LP. Primary malignancies were breast (n=10), lung (n=1), colon (n=1), CNS lymphoma (n=1), and glioma (n=1). Among thirteen patients who underwent CSF evaluation by TS, TS had sensitivity of 83% (95% Confidence Interval [CI], 33-100%) and specificity of 86% (95% CI, 42-100%) for LM, defined as positive CSF cytology and/or unequivocal MRI findings. Among MBC patients, concordance of ER and HER2 status between CTCs and metastatic biopsy were 60% and 75%, respectively. NGS of CSF cfDNA identified somatic mutations in three MBC patients, including one with PIK3CAp.H1047L in blood and CSF.Conclusions: TargetSelector™ is a viable platform to detect CSF CTCs, with potential use as a diagnostic tool for LM. Additional, larger studies are warranted.
Bibliometric evaluation of ultrasound in orthopaedics global publications: 10-year trends and hotspots
Authors: Wang Sheng , Xia Demeng , Zhang Zhentao , Dou Wenxue , Xu Zhuoran , Wu Jianghong , Zhou Panyu , Li Lei , Xu Shuogui
Published: February 2021

Background. The past decade has witnessed the development of ultrasound in orthopaedics, the growth rate of publications has been accelerating. In this study, analysis of the publications on ultrasound in orthopaedics over the past decade has been completed. We aim to provide inspiration for future research on ultrasound in orthopaedics through our work.Methods. All relevant publications between 2009 and 2020 from Web of Science were collected. Statistical Package for Social Science and GraphPad Prism 8 software were used to generate and analyse diagrams. Meanwhile, from the aspects of co-occurring keywords, VOSviewer software and CiteSpace were employed to visualize the research trends.Results. 1,677 publications with a citation frequency of 20,311 were identified. The United States published most publications in this filed and the number of citations was also the highest, as well as the highest H-index. Although China ranked sixth in terms of the number of publications, the growth trend in the future will be fastest. Furthermore, Skeletal Radiology published the most papers related to ultrasound in orthopaedics, Ozcakar, L had published the most papers, and a study by Kwon, YM received the highest citation frequency. The keywords about "MRI", "complication", "female" and "male" were noted as new topics.Conclusions. Through the research, while the contributions of the publications from the United States were significant, the growth rate of Chinese publications in the future cannot be ignored. Moreover, it is hypothesized that diagnosis and epidemiology studies may become hotspots.
Modernising physician resource planning: a national interactive web platform for Canadian medical trainees
Authors: Bourcier Dax , Collins Brandon W , Tanya Stuti M. , Basu Monisha , Sayal Aman Pal , Moolla Siddiq , Dong Angela , Balas Michael , Molcak Haydn , Punchhi Gopika
Published: February 2021

Background: Healthcare systems rely heavily upon human resources to ensure high-quality access to care for the general population. With significant health worker shortages predicted worldwide in the coming decades, maximizing the current workforce by means of a physician resource planning (PRP) strategy that ensures the right number, mix, and distribution of physicians to meet population needs is warranted. In Canada, there is an insufficient number of primary care providers, and disproportionately low numbers of specialist physicians in rural compared to urban regions. Currently, Canadian medical students are not effectively included in PRP strategy and lack the required information for career orientation to help rebalance the population’s workforce needs. This paper aims to present the Health Human Resource (HHR) Platform, a comprehensive web tool that includes relevant workforce data to empower medical students in choosing a discipline based on both personal interests and social accountability.Methods: Physician workforce data were amalgamated from national public agencies. Comments from Canadian residency program directors and useful resources for career planning were collected by the Canadian Federation of Medical Student’s (CFMS) HHR Task Force. This information was consolidated to create the HHR Platform using a DigitalOcean server. The backend database utilizes MySQL, while the frontend utilizes React and Material UI, with additional aspects integrated through Leaflet and Google Charts. Results: A national interactive platform was created that uses a map, comparison table, and trends graph to illustrate over 500,000 unique data points from 37 datasets, including specific information and resources spanning 62 medical specialties from 2015 onwards. There was a 24.6% response rate for program director comments. During the first four months of the HHR Platform launch, there were 2463 different users, of which 998 were returning, with an average of 20.2 users per day spending on average 3 minutes and 4 seconds on the platform.Conclusions: The HHR Platform constitutes a bottom-up national approach to PRP informing medical students on the mix and distribution of physicians needed for a better alignment with residency positions, and ultimately meet the future healthcare demands of the Canadian population.
The effect of the lead error on the load distribution and no-load drag torque in a double-nut ball screw
Authors: Zhang Lu-Chao , Ou Yi , Feng Hu-Tian
Published: February 2021

In a ball screw mechanism, the lead error is not only the key parameter to evaluate the precision, but also an important parameter to determine the load distribution. In this paper, a model is proposed to predict the load distribution related to the lead errors. The mechanical analysis of a double-nut ball screw is conducted to investigate the effect of the lead errors on the balls’ contact deformations and contact angles. Based on the Hertz contact theory, the equations to predict the preload and no-load drag torque are established, and the amplitude of the preload is obtained when the rotational speed is low. To verify the model, various experiments are conducted to measure the lead errors and the no-load drag torques of the ball screw by changing the screws with different accuracy levels. The experimental results show that the preload and no-load drag torque rise when the lead error increases in a double-nut ball screw. Besides, the relative errors between the experimental value and the theoretical value are less than 10%. This proves that the model can predict the preload and the no-load drag torque influenced by the lead error well, which is beneficial to the design of the double-nut ball screw for a certain preload.
WITHDRAWN: Enhanced Visible-Light Promoted Photocatalytic Activity of Mn3O4-based Photocatalysts in Removal of Methylene Blue
Authors: Osgouei Maryam Saket , Kamrani Navideh , Khatamian Massumeh
Published: February 2021

In the present work, pure Mn3O4, Zirconium (Zr)-doped Mn3O4 and Samarium(Sm)-doped Mn3O4 were synthesized by the ultrasonic assisted co-precipitation method. In another step, zeolite 4A was prepared using a natural zeolite (clinoptilolite) by hydrothermal method. Subsequently, the synthesized zeolite 4A was utilized as an efficient support for immobilization of some of the obtained Mn3O4-based photocatalysts, thereby, nanocomposites of Mn(3-x) SmxO4 (x= 0.02)/Zeolite 4A and Mn(3-x) ZrxO4 (x= 0.02)/Zeolite 4A were synthesized. The characterization of the products was performed by exploiting X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) and Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy analysis (DRS). The XRD patterns of the doped Mn3O4samples confirmed the formation of Hausmannite structure without any other impurities. By increasing of dopant content in the structure of Mn3O4, a small shift towards lower diffraction angles and a decreased intensity of the peaks in XRD patterns were detected validating the incorporation of dopant ions. Finally, methylene blue (MB) aqueous solution as an organic pollutant was used to study the photocatalytic performance of synthesized photocatalysts. Regarding the results, Mn(3-x) SmxO4 (x= 0.02)/Zeolite 4A nanocomposite and Mn(3-x) ZrxO4 (x= 0.1) nanoparticles exhibited the remarkable photocatalytic efficiency of 95. 5% and 98.4% in MB degradation process, respectively.
Is Restoration of Hip Center Mandatory for Total Hip Arthroplasty of Protrusio Acetabuli?
Authors: Lee Beom Seok , Kim Hong Seok , Park Jung Wee , Kwon O Sang , Lee Young-Kyun , Ha Yong-Chan , Koo Kyung-Hoi
Published: February 2021

Background: While initial fixation by a press-fit of the acetabular cup is essential for the durability of the component, restoration of the hip center has been known as an attributable factor for implant survival and successful outcome. In protrusio acetabuli (PA), it might be difficult to obtain both restoration of the hip center and the press-fit of the acetabular cup simultaneously during total hip arthroplasty (THA). We tested a hypothesis that medialized cup, if press-fitted, does not compromise the implant stability and outcome after cementless THA of PA. Methods: We reviewed 27 cementless THAs of 23 patients with PA. During THA, we prioritized press-fit of the cup than the hip center restoration. A press-fit was obtained in 24 hips. In the remaining 3 hips, a press-fit could not be obtained, and reinforcement acetabular components were used. The hip center was restored in 18 cups; 15 primary cups and 3 reinforcement components, while it was medialized in 9 cups. We compared implant stability and modified Harris hip score (mHHS) between the 2 groups at a mean of 5.2 (2-16) year follow-up. Results: One restored reinforcement cup was loose. The remaining 26 cups; 17 restored cups and 9 medialized press-fitted cups, remained stable. The final mHHS was similar between the restored group and the medialized group (81.8 ± 10.8 vs 83.6 ± 12.1, p = 0.498). Conclusions: Press-fitted cups, irrespective of hip center restoration, rendered implant stability and favorable results. Initial fixation of the cup is more important than the restoration of hip center.
Characterization of rhinovirus/enterovirus complex infection in children living at high altitudes: A cross sectional study
Authors: Jaime Fernández-Sarmiento , Catalina Corrales Silvia , Evelyn Obando , Jennifer Amin , Goyes Alirio Bastidas , Barrera Pedro A , Ortiz Nicolás Bernal
Published: February 2021

Background: Respiratory tract infections caused by the rhinovirus/enterovirus (RV/EV) complex have traditionally been considered to be minor, self-limited infections in children, with few complications. There are no previous studies of patients living at high altitudes that characterize severe cases of this infection.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study including patients from 1 month to 18 years old who had been hospitalized for acute respiratory tract infections between October 2015 and December 2019, and had had a viral panel with RT-PCR during their hospitalization.Results: During the study period, 645 RT-PCRs were performed, with the two main etiological agents identified being RV/EV (224) and respiratory syncytial virus (68). The median age of patients with RV/EV complex was 27 months (IQR: 8-70), 55.8% were boys and the average length of hospital stay was 12 days (IQR: 6-24). Severe RV/EV complex infections required more transfers to intensive care (11% vs 47%), showed more viral coinfection (OR: 2.13,95%, 95%CI: 1.42-4.64) and had less bacterial coinfection (OR: 0.55, 95%CI: 0.31-0.98) than RSV infections, with no difference in mortality ( 2.4% vs. 2.1%, P:0.09). Post-transplant patients (OR: 3.35, 95%CI: 1.10-11.34) and those with comorbidities (OR: 3.97, 95%CI: 2.23-7.08) had the highest risk of RV/EV infection. The RV/EV group had a higher risk of presenting acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (OR: 3.6, 95%CI: 1.07-12:18), especially in premature infants (p: 0.05; exp (B), 2.99; 95%CI= 1.01-8.82), those with heart disease (p: 0.047; exp(B), 2.99; 95%CI = 1.01-8.82) and those with inborn errors of metabolism (p: 0.032; exp (B), 5-01; 95%CI= 1.15-21.81). Conclusions: Respiratory infection due to RV/EV in children who live at high altitudes can frequently be severe, requiring management with intensive care therapy. When compared to RSV, this complex is more frequently associated with viral coinfection and the development of ARDS, especially in risk groups such as those with prematurity, heart disease or inborn errors of metabolism. It is important to see RV / EV as a virus that can have an unsatisfactory course as or more severe than that of other viruses that affect the respiratory tract in children.
Sexual Contact Patterns in High-income Countries - A Comparative Analysis Using Data From Germany, The UK, and The US
Authors: Tomori Damilola Victoria , Horn Johannes , Rübsamen Nicole , Bardenhorst Sven Kleine , Jaeger Veronika K , Karch André , Mikolajczyk Rafael
Published: February 2021

Sexual contact patterns determine the spread of sexually transmitted infections, and are a central input parameter for mathematical models in this field. We evaluated the importance of country-specific contact pattern parametrization for high-income countries with similar cultural backgrounds by deriving estimates for sexual contact patterns in Germany from two independent studies (HaBIDS and SBG), and comparing them to data from the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal) in the UK, and the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG) in the US. UK and US participants reported a substantially higher number of lifetime opposite-sex sexual partners compared to both German studies. The difference in lifetime partners was caused by a higher proportion of individuals with many partners in the young age group (< 24 years) in the UK and the US. Partner acquisition in older age groups was similar. The number of same-sex partners was similar across the countries, while there was heterogeneity in the reported experience with partners from both sexes, consistent with the differences observed for opposite-sex sexual partners. These patterns can lead to substantially different dynamics of sexually transmitted infections across age, and have strong impact on the results of modelling studies.
Real World Evaluation of Upfront Docetaxel in Metastatic Castrate Sensitive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Isaksson Jenny , Green Henrik , Papantoniou Dimitrios , Pettersson Linn , Andén Mats , Rosell Johan , Lundqvist Elisabeth Åvall , Elander Nils O
Published: February 2021

Background: Recent randomised phase III trials demonstrate survival benefit for the addition of upfront docetaxel to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in metastatic castrate sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). Following its implementation in routine care, this combined treatment strategy needs further evaluation in a real world setting.Methods: A multicentre retrospective cohort study in the South East Health care region of Sweden was conducted. All patients given upfront docetaxel for mCSPC from July 2015 until December 2017 were included. Primary endpoint was progression free survival (PFS) at 12 months and secondary endpoints were PFS at 24 months, overall survival (OS), treatment intensity, adverse events, and unplanned hospitalisations. Exploratory analyses on potentially prognostic parameters were performed.Results: 94 patients were eligible and formed the study cohort. PFS at 12 and 24 months were 75% (95% CI 66-84) and 58% (46-70). OS at 12 and 24 months were 93% (87-99) and 86% (76-96). 91% (n=86) initiated docetaxel according to the standard protocol of 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks (6 cycles), whereas 9% (n=8) received a modified protocol of 50 mg/m2 every 2 weeks (9 cycles). The average overall dose intensity for those commencing standard treatment was 91%. Univariate cox regression analyses revealed that baseline PSA >180 vs <180 and presence vs absence of distant metastases were negative prognostic factors (HR 2.86, 95% CI 1.39-5.87, p =0.0041 and 3.36, 95% CI 1.03-10.96, p=0.045). Following multivariate analysis, the statistical significance remained for PSA (2.51, CI 1.21-5.19, p =0.013) but not for metastatic status (2.60, 95% CI 0.78-8.65, p=0.12). Febrile neutropenia was recorded in 21% (n=20) and 26% (n=24) had at least one episode of unplanned hospitalisation under and up to 30 days after the treatment course. Conclusions: The outcome and safety profile of upfront docetaxel in addition to androgen deprivation therapy in metastatic castrate sensitive prostate cancer appear similar in real world and randomised controlled populations. Further implementation of this treatment strategy is encouraged.
Hydrothermally Synthesized Nanostructured LiMnxFe1-xPO4 (x = 0-0.3) Cathode Materials With Enhanced Properties for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Trinh Dung V. , Nguyen Mai T. T. , Dang Hue T. M. , Dang Dung T. , Le Hang T. T. , Le Huynh T. N. , Tran Hoang V. , Huynh Chinh D.
Published: February 2021

Nanostructured cathode materials based on Mn-doped olivine LiMnxFe1-xPO4 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3) were successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal route. X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy indicated that the synthesized samples possessed a sphere-like nanostructure and a relatively homogeneous size distribution in the range of 100 - 200 nm. Electrochemical experiments and analysis showed that the Mn doping increased the redox potential and boosted the capacity. While the undoped olivine (LiFePO4) had a capacity of 169 mAh g-1 with a slight reduction (10%) in the initial capacity after 50 cycles (150 mAh g-1), the Mn-doped olivine samples (LiMnxFe1-xPO4) demonstrated reliable cycling tests with negligible capacity loss, reaching 151, 147, and 157 mAh g-1 for x = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3, respectively. The results from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) accompanied by the galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT) confirmed that the Mn substitution for Fe promoted the charge transfer process and hence the rapid Li transport. These findings indicate that the LiMnxFe1-xPO4 nanostructures are promising cathode materials for lithium ion battery applications.
Analysis of costs of accidents involving motorcyclists in Jataí - Goiás in the period from 2013 to 2015
Authors: Silva Juliana Freitas , Rodrigues Maria José
Published: February 2021

Background

The occurrence of traffic accidents is a public health problem present throughout Brazil. These accidents generate consequences of personal, social and economic nature. Thus, our objective is to analyze the costs of accidents involving motorcyclists, according to the type of accident, with or without victim, using data taken from traffic accident reports provided by the Military Police in the years 2013 to 2015.
Methods

The data extracted from these reports were analyzed based on the reports of the Institute of Applied Economic Research and the Informatics Department of the Unified Health System. To arrive at the corrected calculation, the accumulated Consumer Price Index for each year was also used.
Results

In Jataí, 1,118 traffic accidents were recorded, 256 without victims and 862 with victims in the analyzed period. Such accidents cost the municipality more than fifteen million reais from 2013 to 2015, costs that involve production losses for society, medical-hospital costs, early retirements, and police and judicial costs. This database was also used to generate a map showing the density of accidents for the same period, which made it possible to identify the neighborhoods with the highest traffic occurrences in the city of Jataí.
Conclusions

These data are tools that enable a deep reflection on the subject, besides serving as a parameter for establishing road safety policies, mapping the occurrences, as well as improving factors that minimize traffic accidents. Analysis of these data makes it possible to understand the expenses and describe the places where traffic accidents occurred in the city of Jataí, GO, Brazil.
Musculoskeletal Practices for the Preparticipation Physical Examination
Authors: Corrente Connor , Silvis Matthew , Murphy Joseph , Gallo Robert , Onks Cayce
Published: February 2021

Background
Little is known about the musculoskeletal (MSK) exam providers use during the preparticipation physical exam (PPE). The primary aims of this study were to determine current practice with regards to the MSK screening exam, if goals are being met, and if there may be opportunities for improvement.
Results
The study had a total of 616 participants with a response rate of 9%. The majority of respondents (82%) were familiar with the 4th Edition PPE Monograph and 80% either moderately or strongly agreed that they use this as a guideline for their MSK screening exam. The 90 second MSK screening test was implemented by 52% of the participants and 13% reported no knowledge of this test. The majority of participants use an orthopedic exam as part of their PPE (82%). 92% of participants felt satisfied that their MSK exam would screen for current injury, while only 42% were satisfied that it effectively screened for future injury. 86% of participants agree that the MSK exam should be performed, while 26% said that they don't perform a physical exam at all. Educationally, 51% received training for the MSK PPE in residency, and 62% had training in fellowship.
Conclusions
Most participants believe that the MSK exam should be performed and that it effectively screens for current injuries, but there is variability as to what tests are being utilized despite the majority being familiar with the PPE Monograph. Most providers do not believe that the MSK PPE adequately screens for future injury; an overriding goal of the PPE. Residency or fellowship programs appear to be venues that education may be instituted.
WITHDRAWN: The role of pulmonary function testing in predicting risk of pneumothorax by CT-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy of the lung
Authors: Li Chunhai , Wang Dexiang , Yang Fengxia , Song Yang , Yu Xuejuan , Liu Bo , Jia Haipeng , Zhou Wei
Published: February 2021

Background
To determine risk factors for pneumothorax associated with computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy (PCNB) of the lung. Whether the lung function characteristics are related to pneumothorax is unclear. This study was designed to provide a risk assessment of pneumothorax based on pulmonary function analysis, which can predict the risk especially for patients with severe pulmonary dysfunction.
Methods
We retrospectively evaluated 343 patients who received CT-guided pulmonary PCNBs and underwent preoperative pulmonary function testing. Demographical, lesion-related, procedure-related features and histopathological diagnosis, as well as results of pulmonary function test were analyzed for risk factors of pneumothorax
Results
Variables associated with higher rate of pneumothorax were location of lesion, presence of emphysema and dwell time. Furthermore, there was significant difference of pulmonary function parameters between groups with or without pneumothorax as expressed by FEV1/FVC ratio, FEV1/FVC ratio (%, pred), FEF50% (% pred), FEF75% (% pred), and FEF25 − 75% (% pred). Obstructive pulmonary function abnormalities were associated with a higher incidence of pneumothorax. However, no correlation was found between the pneumothorax rate and the severity of pulmonary function abnormalities. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed lower location of lesion sampled and presence of emphysema were independent predictors of pneumothorax.
Conclusions
Patients with obstructive pulmonary dysfunction have a higher risk of pneumothorax. FEV1/FVC ratio, FEF50%, FEF75% and FEF25 − 75% has the potential to identify the high-risk population of pneumothorax.
Leaf Wax Extracted from Cauliflower Waste Shows Antitranspirant Efficacy
Authors: Leung Gee-Sian , Marriott Ray , Faralli Michele , Weerasinghe Minuka , Corke Fiona , Miles Melville , Kettlewell Peter
Published: February 2021

Purpose : Excessive transpiration of water from plant leaves can damage crop productivity during droughts, but commercial antitranspirants are expensive. The aim of this research was to characterise extracted wax from brassica leaf waste, and determine its antitranspirant efficacy and economics. Methods : Yield of wax extracted with dichloromethane from six types of brassica waste was measured and the highest yielding waste was selected for bulk extraction with supercritical CO 2 . Wax was compared with a commercially-available terpene antitranspirant (di-1- p -menthene) for efficacy in reducing leaf water vapour loss, measured as stomatal conductance, in three experiments on rapeseed and in one experiment on wheat. Cost of wax under different production scenarios was calculated. Results : Cauliflower leaf waste gave the highest wax yield, with the concentration varying from 1.31% (m/m) to 5.85% (m/m) in different batches of dried leaves. Nonacosane was the main component of the wax. In two of the three rapeseed experiments and in the wheat experiment, stomatal conductance was significantly reduced to similar extents by wax and by di-1- p -menthene, despite the wax being formulated and applied at a much lower concentration. Economic analysis showed that a high wax concentration in the cauliflower leaves would be needed to produce a commercially-viable leaf wax antitranspirant. Conclusion : The results demonstrate biological efficacy as an antitranspirant of extracted cauliflower leaf wax. Further research is needed on variation in wax yield to reliably source high wax concentration leaves and reduce cost of production, and also to understand the greater efficacy of wax than di-1- p -menthene.
Spectral-Luminescent and Electroluminescent Properties of Charge-Transfer Systems Based on Electron-Donating Diphenylamine Derivatives and Acceptors of Dibenzothiophene Sulfone and Phenanthridine
Authors: Gadirov Ruslan M. , Samsonova Lubov G. , Degtyarenko Konstantin M. , Kurtsevich Alexander E. , Yakushchenko Igor K. , Kopylova Tatyana N.
Published: February 2021

Spectral characteristics and luminescence under the photo- and electro-excitation of substituted dibenzthiophene sulfone and phenanthridine were studied in this paper. Diphenylamines are substituents introduced in the 2nd and 7th positions (linear configuration) or the 3rd and 6th positions (angular configuration) of dibenzthiophene sulfone or phenanthridine. All molecules show delayed fluorescence, both in solutions and films produced by thermal vacuum deposition. The value of the energy gap between the S1 and T1 states has been estimated and is shown to depend not only on the spatial arrangement of the fragments among themselves (linear or angular), but also on the nature of the substituent in diphenylamine. The highest electroluminescence brightness was found for the molecules, in which triplet levels are involved, both through the process of triplet-triplet annihilation and through thermally activated delayed fluorescence.
Early Detection of Myocardial Changes With and Without Dexrazoxane Using Serial Magnetic Resonance Imaging in a Pre-Clinical Mouse Model
Authors: Noel Cory , Rainusso Nino , Robertson Matthew , Romero Jonathan , Masand Prakash , Coarfa Cristian , Pautler Robia
Published: February 2021

BackgroundCancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction may occur in pediatric cancer survivors. Identification of early markers of myocardial damage secondary to anthracycline exposure is crucial to develop strategies that may ameliorate this complication. ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to identify early myocardial changes induced by doxorubicin with and without cardioprotection using dexrazoxane detected by serial cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in a pre-clinical mouse model.MethodsSerial CMR examinations were performed in 90 mice distributed in 3 groups: 45 received doxorubicin (DOX group), 30 mice received doxorubicin with dexrazoxane (DOX/DEX group) and 15 mice received saline injections (control group). We obtained the following CMR parameters in all mice: T2, extracellular volume quantification (ECV), myocardial deformation, and functional quantification.ResultsMyocardial edema assessed by T2 time was the earliest parameter demonstrating evidence of myocardial injury, most notable in the DOX group at week 4 and 8 compared with DOX/DEX group. Similarly, global longitudinal strain was abnormal in both the DOX and DOX/DEX groups. However, this change persisted only in the DOX group. The ECV was significantly elevated in the DOX group at the final CMR, while only minimally elevated in the DOX/DEX group. The right and left ejection fraction was decreased, along with the mass to volume ratio in the DOX group. The T2 time, ECV, and deformation correlated with ejection fraction and left ventricular volume. ConclusionsT2 time and deformation by CMR identifies early myocardial injury from anthracyclines. Dexrazoxne did not prevent the initial edema, but the inflammatory changes were not sustained. CMR may be useful for early detection of cardiac dysfunction. Serial CMR demonstrates dexrazoxane minimizes cardiac dysfunction and aids recovery in a mouse model.
Determinants of Viral Suppression Among Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy in Ehlanzeni District, South Africa: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Okonji Emeka Francis , Wyk Brian Van , Mukumbang Ferdinand C. , Hughes Gail
Published: February 2021

Background

Achieving undetectable viral loads is crucial for the reduction of HIV transmissions, AIDS related illnesses and death. Adolescents living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) have worse treatment adherence and lower viral suppression rates compared to adults. We report on the clinical factors associated with viral suppression among adolescents 10–19 years living with HIV in the Ehlanzeni district, Mpumalanga in South Africa.
Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted with 9,543 adolescents living with HIV, aged 10–19 years, who were enrolled in 136 ART clinics in the Ehlanzeni district. Clinical and immunological data were obtained from electronic medical records (Tier.net). Adolescents were categorized as having achieved viral suppression if their latest viral load count was < 1000 ribonucleic acid (RNA) copies/mL. Using a backward stepwise approach, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors independently associated with viral suppression.
Results

The mean age of the participants was 14.75 years (SD = 2.8), and 55.43% were female. Mean duration on ART was 72.26 (SD = 42.3) months. Of the 9,543 adolescents with viral load results recorded, 74% had achieved viral suppression. After adjusting for other covariates, the likelihood of achieving viral suppression remained significantly higher among adolescents who were: female (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.05–1.38), had CD4 count > 200 (AOR = 2.29, 95% CI 1.89–2.79), and on ART for more than 6 months (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI 1.74–4.34). Furthermore, the likelihood of having viral suppression was lower among adolescents with CD4 count < 200 at baseline (AOR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.64–0.90), and who were switched to second line regimen (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.35–0.49).
Conclusions

Viral suppression amongst adolescents at 74% is considerably lower than the WHO target of 90%. Of particular concern for intervention is the lower rates of viral suppression amongst male adolescents. Greater emphasis should be placed to enrol adolescents on ART earlier before CD4 counts are depleted (< 200) and keeping them engaged in care (beyond 6 months). Furthermore, improved viral load monitoring may prevent unnecessary switching to second line treatment, which are costly and is a risk factor for viral non suppression.
Electrophysiological, Behavioural and Biochemical Effect of Ocimum Basilicum Oil and Its Constituents Methyl Chavicol and Linalool on Musca Domestica L.
Authors: Senthoorraja Rajendran , Subaharan KESAVAN , Manjunath Sowmya , Pragadheesh Vppalayam Shanmugam , Bakthavatsalam Nandagopal , Mohan Muthu Gounder , Senthil-Nathan Sengottayan , Basavarajappa Sekarappa
Published: February 2021

The Ocimum basilicum essential oil (EO) was evaluated for its biological effect on M. domestica. Characterization of O. basilicum EO revealed the presence of methyl chavicol (70.93%), linalool (9.34%), epi-α-cadinol (3.69 %), methyl eugenol (2.48%), γ-cadinene (1.67%), 1,8-cineole (1.30%) and (E)-β-ocimene (1.11%). The basil EO and its constituents methyl chavicol and linalool caused the neuronal response in female adults of M. domestica. Adult female flies showed reduced preference to food source laced with basil EO and methyl chavicol. Substrate treated with EO and methyl chavicol at 0.25% caused an oviposition deterrence of over 80%. The ovicidal effect was high in O. basilicum EO (EC50 9.74mg/dm3) followed by methyl chavicol (EC50 10.67mg/dm3) and linalool (EC50 13.57mg/dm3. On contact toxicity, adults exposed to EO (LD50 10.01 μg/adult) were more susceptible than to methyl chavicol and linalool (LD50 13.62 μg/adult and LD50 43.12 μg/adult respectively). EO and its constituents methyl chavicol and linalool induced the detoxifying enzymes Carboxyl esterase (Car E) and Glutathione S – transferases (GST)
A Comparative Study of the Recent Most Potent Small-Molecule PD-L1 Inhibitors: What Can We Learn?
Authors: Zhang Yu , Guo Yu , Gao Jian , Huang Wenhai , Dong Xiaowu , Liu Mei
Published: February 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway have become a "game-changer" in the cancer treatment. However, none of the small molecular inhibitors has been approved yet. To explore the advantages and disadvantages of various scaffolds, different biological evaluations were performed on the three selected small inhibitors, namely Incyte-001, Incyte-011, and BMS-1001. In the HTRF assay, BMS-1001 showed the best binding activity for PD-L1 (IC50 = 0.9 nM) while Incyte-011 (IC50 = 5.293 nM) was twice more potent than the Incyte-001 (IC50 = 11 nM). Also, only Incyte-011 increased the IFN-γ production. Notably, the Incyte-001 exhibited the high-est cytotoxicity (EC50 = 1.635 μM). Interestingly, Incyte-001 (injected intravenously 2mg/kg) also displayed good blood-brain barrier permeability and reached a high concentration in the brain tissue. Finally, molecular docking and modeling studies suggested that the compounds bind in a pocket at the interface of two PD-L1 monomers. Overall, our work shows that PD-1/PD-L1 small molecular inhibitors have different biological characteristics depending on their unique skeletons, which can be further improved to better their clinical application.
Association Between Plasma Renin Activity with Hypertension in Children with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia due to 21-Hydroxylase Enzyme Deficiency
Authors: Lubis Siska Mayasari , Hidayati Eka Lakshmi , Soesanti Frida , AAP Bambang Tridjaja
Published: February 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Work Hours, and Workload Stress Experienced by Teachers
Authors: Hojo Masakazu
Published: February 2021

Background: Too long work hours of Japanese school teachers, along with an increasing number of teachers taking leave due to mental illness, are well known and recognized as a serious social problem. In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by reducing the density in the classroom, the Japanese government has decided to reduce the upper-limit of class size in primary schools after 2021, which is expected to result in lowering the student-teacher ratio. The aim of this study was to examine the association between student-teacher ratio, teacher work hours and teacher stress. Methods: Data on student-teacher ratio, teacher work hours, and teacher stress were obtained from a large-scale international survey conducted by OECD. The number of teachers participated in the survey was 3308 (primary school) and 3555 (lower-secondary school). After excluding teachers with missing observations, the analytic sample consisted of 2767 (primary school) and 3018 (lower-secondary school) teachers. Multivariate regression analysis was performed. Results: Regression results revealed that student-teacher ratio was positively correlated with total work hours and workload stress of teachers, and was negatively correlated with their job satisfaction. In particular, teachers working in schools with high student-teacher ratio spent more time on time-consuming tasks such as marking/correcting student work and communication with parents or guardians. The coefficient estimates suggested that lowering student-teacher ratio by five at lower secondary school would decrease total working hours by 2.5 hours per week (p<0.001). Conclusion: Our empirical results suggested that the class-size reduction policy starting in 2021 could reduce teacher stress and long work hours through the consequent decrease in student-teacher ratios.
The PRY/SPRY Domain of Pyrin/TRIM20, The Familial Mediterranean Fever Protein, Interacts with β2-Microglobulin to Promote Inflammasome Formation
Authors: Samukawa Sei , Yoshimi Ryusuke , Kirino Yohei , Nakajima Hideaki
Published: February 2021

Background. Pyrin/TRIM20 is expressed in the neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages and regulates caspase-1 activation and interleukin-1β maturation. Although the mutations in the PRY/SPRY domain of pyrin cause familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), the mechanism of how mutated pyrin provokes excessive inflammation in FMF patients is not well understood. This study was undertaken to explore the new pyrin PRY/SPRY domain-binding protein and to investigate how the interaction affected the pyrin function.Methods. We carried out the yeast two-hybrid screening for pyrin PRY/SPRY domain-binding proteins. Then, protein interactions were investigated using Lenti-X 293T cells expressing pyrin-associated proteins by co-immunoprecipitation analysis. We also used human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells expressing pyrin-associated proteins and human neutrophils stimulated with monosodium urate crystal for immunofluorescence staining analysis.Results. β2-Microglobulin (β2MG) was identified as the novel pyrin ligand binding to the PRY/SPRY domain. β2MG was co-localized with pyrin not only in the HEK293 cells overexpressing these proteins but also in the stimulated human neutrophils in the speck-like structures. The pyrin-β2MG interaction triggered the binding of pyrin and proline-serine-threonine phosphatase interacting protein 1 (PSTPIP1) and then the subsequent recruitment of apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing caspase recruitment domain (ASC). Caspase-1 p20 subunit, produced by pyrin inflammasome, also interacted with the pyrin PRY/SPRY domain and inhibited the pyrin-β2MG interaction. FMF-associated pyrin mutation M694V did not affect pyrin-β2MG interaction but weakened this inhibition.Conclusions. Our findings suggest that β2MG functions as the pyrin ligand inducing pyrin inflammasome formation and that the FMF-associated pyrin mutations weakened negative feedback of caspase-1 p20 subunit.
Superior Electrocatalytic Activity of Ag doped MnWO4 Microflowers towards Glucose molecules
Authors: Rajput Manisha , NAIK KUSHA KUMAR
Published: February 2021

Herein we report the synthesis of Ag doped MnWO4 material carried out by facile hydrothermal method and its catalytic property towards glucose molecules. The Ag-MnWO4 material is characterized by XRD, SEM and EDX respectively. The morphology of the synthesized material is nanorod like structure and the nanorods are converged with each other constructing microflower structure. The microflowers are uniform and sparsely distributed in all direction. The fabricated Ag-MnWO4 electrode performs huge sensitivity of 17.9 µAµM− 1cm− 2 in the linear range 5-110 µM with response time 8 s. Further, excellent selectivity and acceptable stability of the material are achieved. It is predicted that Ag-MnWO4 material would be a good glucose catalytic material for sensing applications.
Circadian miR-449c-5p Regulates Uterine Ca2+ Transport During Eggshell Calcification in Chickens
Authors: Cui Zhifu , Zhang Zhichao , Amevor Felix Kwame , Du Xiaxia , Li Liang , Tian Yaofu , Kang Xincheng , Shu Gang , Zhu Qing , Wang Yan , Li Diyan , Zhang Yao , Zhao Xiaoling
Published: February 2021

Background: miRNAs regulate circadian patterns by modulating animal biological clock. Clock genes exhibited a cosine expression pattern in the fallopian tube of chicken uterus in our previous study. Clock-controlled miRNAs are present in mammals and Drosophila; however, whether there are clock-controlled miRNAs in chicken uterus and, if so, how they regulate egg-laying rhythms are not clear. Here, we selected 18 layer hens with similar ovipositional rhythmicity (three birds were sacrificed for study per at 4 h intervals throughout 24 h); their transcriptomes were scanned to identify the circadian miRNAs and to explore regulatory mechanisms within the uterus of chickens.Results: We identified six circadian miRNAs mainly associated with several biological processes including ion trans-membrane transportation, response to calcium ion, and enrichment of calcium signaling pathways. Verification of experimental results revealed that miR-449c-5p exhibited a cosine expression pattern in chicken uterus. Ca2+-transporting ATPase 4 (ATP2B4) in the plasma membrane is the predicted target gene of circadian miR-449c-5p and is highly enriched in the calcium signaling pathway. We speculated that clock-controlled miR-449c-5p regulated Ca2+ transportation during eggshell calcification in chicken uterus by targeting ATP2B4. ATP2B4 mRNA and protein were rhythmically expressed in chicken uterus, and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays confirmed that ATP2B4 was directly targeted by miR-449c-5p. miR-449c-5p showed an opposite expression profile with ATP2B4 within a 24h cycle in chicken uterus; it inhibited mRNA and protein expressions of ATP2B4 in uterine tubular gland cells. Additionally, overexpression of ATP2B4 significantly decreased intracellular Ca2+ concentration (P < 0.05), while knockdown of ATP2B4 accelerated intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. Similar results were found after ATP2B4 knockdown by miR-449c-5p. These results indicated that ATP2B4 promoted uterine Ca2+ trans-epithelial transport. Conclusions: Clock-controlled miR-449c-5p regulates Ca2+ transport in chicken uterus by targeting ATP2B4 during eggshell calcification.
A Comprehensive Study of Preferences Toward Urban Pocket Parks
Authors: Shahhosseini Habib , M.S. Mustafa Kamal , Maulan Suhardi , Samimi Paniz Mousavi
Published: February 2021

Urban parks are inseparable part of green spaces that have been recognized for developing the surrounding environment’s quality. Aesthetic comprehension in Urban Pocket Parks, as an environment which contains various stimuli, is influenced by multi-sensory perception that includes the integration of non-visual (tactile, auditory and olfactory) and visual stimuli. As the current research’s objective was to determine the impact of multi-sensory on visual preferences, Structural Equations Model results on 16 Urban Pocket Parks in Tabriz, Iran, revealed that there was a significant relation between visual preferences and Sound (Human and Natural sounds), and Smell (Human-Body and Natural smells) stimuli, however, the influence of touch stimuli on visual preferences had not identified significant. As a consequence, evaluating the public experience of Natural Sound-Smell Stimuli and the Human-body Sound-Smell Stimuli are essential in designing urban pocket parks; accordingly, city planners and landscape architects can enhance users’ visual preferences by considering these stimuli.
Excellent Photocatalytic Degradation of Indigo Dye using Low Cost Chemical Route Grown Highly Luminescent SnO2 Decorated Polystyrene Nanocomposites
Authors: Kaundal Jyoti Bala , Tiwari R.K , Goswami Y C
Published: February 2021

Irrational use of dye is a challenge for our environment specifically for clean water. Highly luminescent SnO2 decorated Polystyrene nanocomposites developed as an effective solution for it. The low cost chemical synthesis of highly luminescent tin oxide decorated Polystyrene (SnO2-PS) polymer nanocomposites using recyclable expended polystyrene waste has been reported. Sol gel grown tin oxide nanoparticles, thoroughly dissolved in dissolved in toluene were used with recyclable expended polystyrene waste. The composites were grown either on glass substrates or developed as flexible self sustaining layers and characterized by optical, structural & morphological characterizations. X ray diffractograms of SnO2-PS polymer nanocomposites exhibit crystalline behavior with tetragonal structure of SnO2. Accumulation of SnO2 particles on the surface with increasing concentration, in the form of spherical structures is observed in AFM micrographs. Hollow vertical chain like growth is also observed. Absorption edge shift towards higher wavelength results in decrease in band gap with increasing concentration. The Photoluminescence (PL) spectra for higher SnO2 shows a significant peak peaks in visible spectra at about 425 nm. SnO2 decorated Polystyrene nanocomposites synthesized using recyclable expended polystyrene waste opens a new scope in flexible optoelectronic applications with visible region photoluminescence.