bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiretroviral treatment failure and associated factors among HIV patients on first-line antiretroviral treatment in Sekota, northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Nega Jemberu , Taye Solomon , Million Yihenew , Rodrigo Chaturaka , Eshetie Setegn
Published: July 2020

Background

Antiretroviral treatment has played a pivotal role in the reduction of HIV/AIDS-related morbidity and mortality. However, treatment options can be impaired by the development of antiretroviral treatment failure. Regular monitoring of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus treatment outcome via viral load tests is the key approach. There is a scarcity of information about HIV treatment failure and risk factors in the study area. Therefore, the study was aimed to assess antiretroviral treatment failure and associated factors among patients on first-line antiretroviral treatment at Tefera Hailu Memorial Hospital, Sekota, northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 295 patients on first-line antiretroviral treatment from Nov. 2018 to Apr. 2019. Socio-demographic and clinical variables were collected using a pretested questionnaire, and blood specimen was collected for PCR viral load and CD4 + cell count estimation. Data were entered into Epi-Info and exported to SPSS for analysis. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify associated factors, and P value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

Of the 295 subjects on first-line ART, 49 (16.6%) and 18 (6.1%) experienced virological and immunological failures, respectively. The failure of the former was associated with poor adherence (AOR: 6.367, P < 0.001), CD4 + count < 500 cells/µL (AOR: 4.78, P = 0.031) and shorter (6–24 months) duration on ART (AOR: 0.48, P = 0.048), while poor treatment adherence (AOR: 11.51, P = 0.012) and drug interruption (AOR: 6.374, P = 0.039) were the independent risk factors for latter. Immunological tests to predict virological failures showed as sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 20.4%, 96.7%, 55.5%, and 86.0%, respectively.

Conclusions

The rate of ART failure was considerably high. Poor adherence, low CD4 + count, prolonged ART, and drug interruption were found to be the most predictor variables for virological and immunological failures. The discrimination power of the immunological parameter was low in comparison to virological measurements as standard methods. Therefore, the study highlighted the need for more attention and efforts to curb associated factors and maximize virological tests for monitoring treatment failures.
Prevalence and genotype distribution of HPV and cervical pathological results in Sichuan Province, China: a three years surveys prior to mass HPV vaccination
Authors: Luo Qing , Jiang Ni , Wu Qiaoyuan , Wang Jiaqiang , Zhong Jialing
Published: July 2020

Background

HPV persistent infection is a strong carcinogenic factor that can induce cervical cancer. Investigation of HPV epidemiology and genotype distribution is of great meaning for the development of cervical cancer prevention and control strategies.

Methods

By using PCR-based hybridization gene chip assay, HPV genotype was detected from 14,185 women that came from HEC (Health Examination Center) or OGOC (Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Clinics) between 2015 and 2017 in Sichuan area. The epidemiology and genotype distribution as well as the relationship between HPV infection and histology/cytology abnormalities were analyzed.

Results

The positivity rate of HPV was 23.84%. The HPV-positive rate of OGOC group (37.62%) was significantly higher than that of HEC group (15.29%), p < 0.05. The prevalence of HPV reached peak at age 41–50 (5.86%) in HEC group, but at age 21–30 (14.74%) in OGOC group. Of all the HPV positive women, single genotype infection was the most common form in both HEC and OGOC group (62.06% in total screening population, 74.36% in HEC group and 54.01% in OGOC group). Three most prevalent HPV types were HPV-52 (5.02%), 58 (3.61%), and 16 (3.24%) in total screening population. Of all the HPV positive women, the top three types were HPV-52 (20.93%), CP8304 (15.32%), and 58 (14.42%) in HEC group, while were HPV-52 (21.14%), 16 (16.34%), and 58 (15.61%) in OGOC group. HPV 52/16/58 accounted for 41.84% of cytology and 56.52% of histological abnormalities.

Conclusions

Women in Sichuan area were facing the great threat of HPV infection, especially the women aged between 21 ~ 30 or 41–50 years old. The priority HPV types were HPV 52, 58, and 16 in OGOC group, while were HPV 52, CP8304, and 58 in HEC group. HPV 52/16/58 accounted for the majority of cytology and histological abnormalities. Our analysis was found to be valuable for providing a scientific basis for the prevention and control strategies of cervical cancer in Sichuan area.
The impact of scanning data measurements on the Acuros dose calculation algorithm configuration
Authors: Fogliata A. , Esposito E. , Paganini L. , Reggiori G. , Tomatis S. , Scorsetti M. , Cozzi L.
Published: July 2020

Background

Many dose calculation algorithms for radiotherapy planning need to be configured for each clinical beam using pre-defined measurements. An optimization process adjusts the physical parameters able to estimate the energy released in the medium in any geometrical condition. This work investigates the impact of measured input data quality on the configuration of the type “c” Acuros-XB dose calculation algorithm in the Eclipse (Varian Medical Systems) treatment planning system.

Methods

Different datasets were acquired with the BeamScan water phantom (PTW) to configure 6 MV beams, for both flattened (6X) and flattening filter free mode (6FFF) for a Varian TrueBeam:(i)a correct dataset measured using a Semiflex-3D ion chamber,(ii)a set in missing lateral scatter conditions (MLS),(iii)a set with incorrect effective point of measurement (EPoM),(iv)sets acquired with PinPoint-3D chamber, DiodeP, microDiamond detectors.

The Acuros-XB dose calculation algorithm (version 15.6) was configured using the reference dataset, the sets measured with the different detectors, with intentional errors, and using the representative beam data (RBD) made available by the vendor. The physical parameters obtained from each optimization process (spectrum, mean radial energy, electron contamination), were analyzed and compared. Calculated data were finally compared against the input and reference measurements.

Results

Concerning the physical parameters, the configurations presenting the largest differences were the MLS conditions (mean radial energy) and the incorrect EPoM (electron contamination). The calculation doses relative to the input data present low accuracy, with mean differences > 2% in some conditions. The PinPoint-3D ion chamber presented lower accuracy for the 6FFF beam. Regarding the RBD, calculations compared well with the input data used for the configuration, but not with the reference data.

Conclusion

The MLS conditions and the incorrect setting of the EPoM lead to erroneous configurations and should be avoided. The choice of an appropriate detector is important. Whenever the representative beam data is used, a careful check under more clinical geometrical conditions is advised.
Accuracy of real-time respiratory motion tracking and time delay of gating radiotherapy based on optical surface imaging technique
Authors: Chen Li , Bai Sen , Li Guangjun , Li Zhibin , Xiao Qing , Bai Long , Li Changhu , Xian Lixun , Hu Zhenyao , Dai Guyu , Wang Guangyu
Published: July 2020

Background

Surface-guided radiation therapy (SGRT) employs a non-invasive real-time optical surface imaging (OSI) technique for patient surface motion monitoring during radiotherapy. The main purpose of this study is to verify the real-time tracking accuracy of SGRT for respiratory motion and provide a fitting method to detect the time delay of gating.

Methods

A respiratory motion phantom was utilized to simulate respiratory motion using 17 cosine breathing pattern curves with various periods and amplitudes. The motion tracking of the phantom was performed by the Catalyst™ system. The tracking accuracy of the system (with period and amplitude variations) was evaluated by analyzing the adjusted coefficient of determination (A_R2) and root mean square error (RMSE). Furthermore, 13 actual respiratory curves, which were categorized into regular and irregular patterns, were selected and then simulated by the phantom. The Fourier transform was applied to the respiratory curves, and tracking accuracy was compared through the quantitative analyses of curve similarity using the Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC). In addition, the time delay of amplitude-based respiratory-gating radiotherapy based on the OSI system with various beam hold times was tested using film dosimetry for the Elekta Versa-HD and Varian Edge linacs. A dose convolution-fitting method was provided to accurately measure the beam-on and beam-off time delays.

Results

A_R2 and RMSE for the cosine curves were 0.9990–0.9996 and 0.110–0.241 mm for periods ranging from 1 s to 10 s and 0.9990–0.9994 and 0.059–0.175 mm for amplitudes ranging from 3 mm to 15 mm. The PCC for the actual respiratory curves ranged from 0.9955 to 0.9994, which was not significantly affected by breathing patterns. For gating radiotherapy, the average beam-on and beam-off time delays were 1664 ± 72 and 25 ± 30 ms for Versa-HD and 303 ± 45 and 34 ± 25 ms for Edge, respectively. The time delay was relatively stable as the beam hold time increased.

Conclusions

The OSI technique provides high accuracy for respiratory motion tracking. The proposed dose convolution-fitting method can accurately measure the time delay of respiratory-gating radiotherapy. When the OSI technique is used for respiratory-gating radiotherapy, the time delay for the beam-on is considerably longer than the beam-off.
The application and value of continuous nursing in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Zhou Sheng-Huo , Huang Shu-Ting , Xu Ning , Chen Qiang , Chen Liang-Wang , Kuo Yur-Ren
Published: July 2020

Objective

To investigate the application and value of continuous nursing after coronary artery bypass grafting.

Methods

The clinical data of 62 patients after coronary artery bypass grafting from January 2016 to January 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. According to the nursing mode, the patients were divided into two groups: the continuous nursing group (n = 30) and the conventional nursing group (n = 32). All patients completed Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) at admission and 1 year after operation. All patients completed Seattle Angina Pectoris Questionnaire (SAQ) at discharge and 1 year after operation.

Results

All patients were followed up for more than one year. One year after operation, SAQ score in five items in continuous nursing group was significantly better than that in conventional nursing group.(P < 0.05) The continuous nursing group exhibited significantly decreased SAS and SDS scores 1 year after surgery compared to the preoperative SAS and SDS scores.(P < 0.05) The SAS and SDS scores of the continuous nursing group were significantly better than those of the conventional nursing group 1 year after surgery.(P < 0.05) Then incidence rate of chest tightness or chest pain and coronary restenosis in continuous nursing group were significantly less than that in conventional nursing group.(P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Continuous nursing improved patient compliance with treatment and reduces the occurrence of complications. The patient also receives proper psychological evaluations, which relieve patient anxiety and depression and improve the quality of life.
“We can’t carry the weight of the whole world”: illness experiences among Peruvian older adults with symptoms of depression and anxiety
Authors: Flores-Flores Oscar , Zevallos-Morales Alejandro , Carrión Ivonne , Pawer Dalia , Rey Lorena , Checkley W. , Hurst J. R. , Siddharthan T. , Parodi Jose F. , Gallo Joseph J. , Pollard Suzanne L.
Published: July 2020

Background

Despite the high levels of depression and anxiety symptoms in old age, the use of mental health services in this population is low. Help-seeking behaviors are shaped by how an individual perceives and experiences their illness. The objective of this study was to characterize the illness experiences of Peruvian older adults with depression and anxiety symptoms in order to lay the foundation for tailored community-based mental health interventions.

Methods

In this qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews with a purposively selected sample of older adults (≥ 60 years) from peri-urban areas of Lima, Peru. We included individuals with only depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 ≥ 10), only anxiety symptoms (Beck Anxiety Inventory ≥ 16), with depressive and anxiety symptoms, and older adults who mentioned they had received mental health treatment/care. The interview guide included the following topics: perceptions and experiences about depression and anxiety; perceptions about the relationship between physical chronic diseases and mental health; experiences with mental health professionals and treatments, and coping mechanisms. Data collection was conducted between October 2018 and February 2019.

Results

We interviewed 38 participants (23 women, 15 men) with a mean age of 67.9 years. Participants’ ideas and perceptions of depression and anxiety showed considerable overlap. Participants attributed depression and anxiety mainly to familial and financial problems, loneliness, loss of independence and past traumatic experiences. Coping strategies used by older adults included ‘self-reflection and adaptation’ to circumstances, ‘do your part’, and seeking ‘emotional support’ mainly from non-professionals (relatives, friends, acquaintances, and religion).

Conclusions

Illness experiences of depression and anxiety set the pathway for tailored community-based mental health interventions for older adults. Overlapping narratives and perceptions of depression and anxiety suggest that these conditions should be addressed together. Mental health interventions should incorporate addressing areas related to depression and anxiety such as prevention of loss of independence, trauma, and loneliness. Good acceptability of receiving emotional support for non-professionals might offer an opportunity to incorporate them when delivering mental health care to older adults.
DISC: a highly scalable and accurate inference of gene expression and structure for single-cell transcriptomes using semi-supervised deep learning
Authors: He Yao , Yuan Hao , Wu Cheng , Xie Zhi
Published: July 2020

Dropouts distort gene expression and misclassify cell types in single-cell transcriptome. Although imputation may improve gene expression and downstream analysis to some degree, it also inevitably introduces false signals. We develop DISC, a novel deep learning network with semi-supervised learning to infer gene structure and expression obscured by dropouts. Compared with seven state-of-the-art imputation approaches on ten real-world datasets, we show that DISC consistently outperforms the other approaches. Its applicability, scalability, and reliability make DISC a promising approach to recover gene expression, enhance gene and cell structures, and improve cell type identification for sparse scRNA-seq data.
Association between rare variants in specific functional pathways and human neural tube defects multiple subphenotypes
Authors: Zou Jizhen , Wang Fang , Yang Xueyan , Wang Hongyan , Niswander Lee , Zhang Ting , Li Huili
Published: July 2020

Background

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are failure of neural tube closure, which includes multiple central nervous system phenotypes. More than 300 mouse mutant strains exhibits NTDs phenotypes and give us some clues to establish association between biological functions and subphenotypes. However, the knowledge about association in human remains still very poor.

Methods

High throughput targeted genome DNA sequencing were performed on 280 neural tube closure-related genes in 355 NTDs cases and 225 ethnicity matched controls,

Results

We explored that potential damaging rare variants in genes functioning in chromatin modification, apoptosis, retinoid metabolism and lipid metabolism are associated with human NTDs. Importantly, our data indicate that except for planar cell polarity pathway, craniorachischisis is also genetically related with chromatin modification and retinoid metabolism. Furthermore, single phenotype in cranial or spinal regions displays significant association with specific biological function, such as anencephaly is associated with potentially damaging rare variants in genes functioning in chromatin modification, encephalocele is associated with apoptosis, retinoid metabolism and one carbon metabolism, spina bifida aperta and spina bifida cystica are associated with apoptosis; lumbar sacral spina bifida aperta and spina bifida occulta are associated with lipid metabolism. By contrast, complex phenotypes in both cranial and spinal regions display association with various biological functions given the different phenotypes.

Conclusions

Our study links genetic variant to subphenotypes of human NTDs and provides a preliminary but direct clue to investigate pathogenic mechanism for human NTDs.
Candidate genes for monitoring hydrogen peroxide resistance in the salmon louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis
Authors: Agusti-Ridaura Celia , Bakke Marit Jørgensen , Helgesen Kari Olli , Sundaram Arvind Y. M. , Bakke Sigrid Jørgensen , Kaur Kiranpreet , Horsberg Tor Einar
Published: July 2020

Background

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is one of the delousing agents used to control sea lice infestations in salmonid aquaculture. However, some Lepeophtheirus salmonis populations have developed resistance towards H2O2. An increased gene expression and activity of catalase, an enzyme that breaks down H2O2, have been detected in resistant lice, being therefore introduced as a resistance marker in the salmon industry. In the present study the aim was to validate the use of catalase expression as a marker and to identify new candidate genes as additional markers to catalase, related to H2O2 resistance in L. salmonis.

Methods

A sensitive and an H2O2 resistant laboratory strain (P0 generation, not exposed to H2O2 for several years) were batch crossed to generate a cohort with a wide range of H2O2 sensitivities (F2 generation). F2 adult females were then exposed to H2O2 to separate sensitive and resistant individuals. Those F2 lice, the P0 lice and field-collected resistant lice (exposed to H2O2 in the field) were used in an RNA sequencing study.

Results

Catalase was upregulated in resistant lice exposed to H2O2 compared to sensitive lice. This was, however, not the case for unexposed resistant P0 lice. Several other genes were found differentially expressed between sensitive and resistant lice, but most of them seemed to be related to H2O2 exposure. However, five genes were consistently up- or downregulated in the resistant lice independent of exposure history. The upregulated genes were: one gene in the DNA polymerase family, one gene encoding a Nesprin-like protein and an unannotated gene encoding a small protein. The downregulated genes encoded endoplasmic reticulum resident protein 29 and an aquaporin (Glp1_v2).

Conclusions

Catalase expression seems to be induced by H2O2 exposure, since it was not upregulated in unexposed resistant lice. This may pose a challenge for its use as a resistance marker. The five new genes associated with resistance are put forward as complementary candidate genes. The most promising was Glp1_v2, an aquaglyceroporin that may serve as a passing channel for H2O2. Lower channel number can reduce the influx or distribution of H2O2 in the salmon louse, being directly involved in the resistance mechanism.
Evaluation of multiplex ARMS-PCR for detection of Helicobacter pylori mutations conferring resistance to clarithromycin and levofloxacin
Authors: Li Yangxia , Lv Tangshan , He Chaochao , Wang Hongyan , Cram David S. , Zhou Linfu , Zhang Jun , Jiang Weiqin
Published: July 2020

Background

Helicobacter pylori bacterium is a major cause of gastritis. With increasing use of antibiotics to treat infections, mutation resistant strains have emerged in most human populations. To effectively treat patients to help resolve infections, the clinician needs information on the antibiotic susceptibility profile of the infection. Therefore, a rapid and accurate test is required to provide this information. To address this issue, we designed and validated a real time multiplex ARMS-PCR assay for rapid detection of highly prevalent H. pylori clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance mutations. The aim of the study was to evaluate the analytical and diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of ARMS-PCR, using direct Sanger sequencing of the known resistance mutations as the gold standard.

Results

In preliminary studies using a defined number of plasmids with clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance mutations, the analytical sensitivity of our ARMS-PCR assay was 50 plasmid copies, equating to around 50 bacterium in a gastric biopsy sample. In terms of specificity, the assay was highly specific for the targeted resistance mutations. The assay was also able to reliably and efficiently detect heteroresistance of clarithromycin and levofloxacin mutations, even at a disproportional ratio of 1:1000. From the analysis of 192 samples with suspected H. pylori infections, the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the assay was very high for detection of clarithromycin resistance (100% and 100%), levofloxacin resistance (98.04% and 95.04%) and clarithromycin and levofloxacin double resistance (100% and 96.91%). Amongst the 74 patients diagnosed antibiotic resistance bacteria, 23 (31.1%) had clarithromycin resistance, 21 (28.4%) had levofloxacin resistance and 30 (40.5%) had double resistance. From sample receipt to results, our single tube assay could be routinely completed in under 2 h.

Conclusions

Our assay demonstrated high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for detection of clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistant H. pylori. Based on proven accuracy, together with high efficiency, scalability and low cost, our assay has useful clinical utility for rapid diagnosis of clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistant H. pylori infections. Our assay results will provide patients with a clear diagnosis, enabling the treating clinician to administer the most effective antibiotic regimen to help the clear the infection.
Solving a nonlinear fractional Schrödinger equation using cubic B-splines
Authors: Erfanian M. , Zeidabadi H. , Rashki M. , Borzouei H.
Published: July 2020

We study the inhomogeneous nonlinear time-fractional Schrödinger equation for linear potential, where the order of fractional time derivative parameter α varies between $0 < \alpha < 1$
0
<
α
<
1
. First, we begin from the original Schrödinger equation, and then by the Caputo fractional derivative method in natural units, we introduce the fractional time-derivative Schrödinger equation. Moreover, by applying a finite-difference formula to time discretization and cubic B-splines for the spatial variable, we approximate the inhomogeneous nonlinear time-fractional Schrödinger equation; the simplicity of implementation and less computational cost can be mentioned as the main advantages of this method. In addition, we prove the convergence of the method and compute the order of the mentioned equations by getting an upper bound and using some theorems. Finally, having solved some examples by using the cubic B-splines for the spatial variable, we show the plots of approximate and exact solutions with the noisy data in figures.
Shrinking Cesáro means method for the split equilibrium and fixed point problems in Hilbert spaces
Authors: Harisa Samy A. , Khan M. A. A. , Mumtaz F. , Faried Nashat , Morsy Ahmed , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Ghaffar Abdul
Published: July 2020

We propose a modified version of the classical Cesáro means method endowed with the hybrid shrinking projection method to solve the split equilibrium and fixed point problems (SEFPP) in Hilbert spaces. One of the main reasons to equip the classical Cesáro means method with the shrinking projection method is to establish strong convergence results which are often required in infinite-dimensional functional spaces. As a consequence, the convergence analysis is carried out under mild conditions on the underlying shrinking Cesáro means method. We emphasize that the results accounted in this manuscript can be considered as an improvement and generalization of various existing exciting results in this field of study.
Stability and Hopf bifurcation analysis of a delayed tobacco smoking model containing snuffing class
Authors: Zhang Zizhen , Zou Junchen , Upadhyay Ranjit Kumar , Pratap A.
Published: July 2020

This paper is concerned with a delayed tobacco smoking model containing users in the form of snuffing. Its dynamics is studied in terms of local stability and Hopf bifurcation by regarding the time delay as a bifurcation parameter and analyzing the associated characteristic transcendental equation. Specially, specific formulas determining the stability and direction of the Hopf bifurcation are derived with the aid of the normal form theory and the center manifold theorem. Using LMI techniques, global exponential stability results for smoking present equilibrium have been presented. Computer simulations are implemented to explain the obtained analytical results.
How Shenzhen, China avoided widespread community transmission: a potential model for successful prevention and control of COVID-19
Authors: Zou Huachun , Shu Yuelong , Feng Tiejian
Published: July 2020

Shenzhen is a city of 22 million people in south China that serves as a financial and trade center for East Asia. The city has extensive ties to Hubei Province, the first reported epicenter of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in the world. Initial predictions suggested Shenzhen would experience a high number of COVID-19 cases. These predictions have not materialized. As of 31 March 2020 Shenzhen had only 451 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Contact tracing has shown that no cases were the result of community transmission within the city. While Shenzhen did not implement a citywide lockdown like Wuhan, it did put into place a rapid response system first developed after the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) epidemic in 2003. In the wake of the 2003 SARS outbreak, Shenzhen health authority created a network for surveillance and responding to novel respiratory infections, including pneumonia of unknown causes (PUC). The network rapidly detected mass discussion about PUC and immediately deployed emergency preparedness, quarantine for close contacts of PUC. Five early actions (early detection, early reporting, early diagnosis, early isolation, and early treatment) and four centralized responses (centralized coordination by experts, centralized allocation of resources, centralized placement of patients, and centralized provision of treatment) ensured effective prevention and control. Tripartite working teams comprising community cadres, medical personnel and police were formulated to conduct contact tracing at each neighborhood and residential community. Incorporation of mobile technology, big data, and artificial intelligence into COVID-19 response increased accessibility to health services, reduced misinformation and minimized the impact of fake news. Shenzhen’s unique experience in successfully controlling the COVID-19 outbreak may be a useful model for countries and regions currently experiencing rapid spread of the virus.
Every layer of quadriceps tendon’s central and medial portion offers similar tensile properties than Hamstrings or Ilio-Tibial Band Grafts
Authors: Chivot Matthieu , Pioger Charles , Cognault Jérémy , Sharma Akash , Pailhé Regis , Cavaignac Etienne , Ollivier Matthieu , Jacquet Christophe
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The aim of our cadaveric study was to compare the mechanical properties of different parts of the quadriceps’ tendon in a load to failure analysis as compared to three other, and most common types of grafts that are used to perform ligament’s reconstruction.

Methods

Ten fresh-frozen cadavers (5 women, 5 men) were selected from our anatomical department. Mean age at death was 64 years (48–87 years). Tendons were harvested to prepare (1) different quadriceps tendon’s specimens: lateral portion (QTlat), medial portion superficial layer (QTMsup) and deep layer (QTMdeep) and central portion superficial (QTCsup) and deep layers (QTCdeep) (2) Patellar Tendon (PT), (3) Gracilis+Semi-Tendinosus specimens (GST). Specimens were stored at − 40 °C in a freezing solution. Specimens were securely attached to a dedicated loading platform, measurements were done using a validated software. Load to failure testing was then carried out. Young’s Elastic moduli, ultimate Stress (MPa) and Deformation (%) were analysed.

Results

The elastic moduli of the PT was significantly higher than all other grafts, all medial and central QT layers (superficial and deep) were significantly higher than its lateral part (QTlat). In terms of Ultimate Stress, all grafts were significantly greater than QTlat, PT and GST were significantly superior to QT central portions and to ITB but there did not differ with the medial portion of QT. ITB ultimate stress values were significantly higher than QTlat. The ultimate deformations of all grafts were similar.

Conclusions

This study provides reference values in in order to characterize different parts of the QT that presents anatomically and Mechanically with complex characteristics. Every Layer of Quadriceps Tendon’s Central and Medial Portion Offered Similar Mechanical Properties than Two Strand Hamstrings or Ilio-Tibial Band.
Correction to: Predictive validity of a novel non-invasive estimation of effective shunt fraction in critically ill patients
Authors: Chang Emma M. , Bretherick Andrew , Drummond Gordon B. , Baillie J. Kenneth
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
miR-183-3p suppresses proliferation and migration of keratinocyte in psoriasis by inhibiting GAB1
Authors: Liu Ting , Zhang Xiaoyan , Wang Yujuan
Published: July 2020

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) target genes involved in the hyperproliferation of keratinocytes or immune dysfunction of psoriasis. This study prospectively determined the involvement of miR-183-3p in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

Methods

Differentially expressed miR-183-3p between psoriatic lesional and non-lesional skin were determined by quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization (ISH). CCK8 and wound healing assays were performed to assess cell viability and migration of human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT). The target of miR-183-3p was validated by luciferase activity assay.

Results

Lower miR-183-3p expression was observed in psoriatic lesional skin compared to psoriatic non-lesional skin. MiR-183-3p over-expression inhibited the viability and migration of HaCaT cells, while inhibition of miR-183-3p promoted the viability and migration of HaCaT cells. Moreover, miR-183-3p could bind to the 3′ UTR of GAB1 (growth factor receptor binding 2-associated binding protein 1) and decrease the mRNA and protein expression of GAB1 in HaCaT cells. In addition, higher GAB1 expression was observed in psoriatic lesional skin than psoriatic non-lesional skin.

Conclusion

MiR-183-3p exhibited inhibition property in the proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells via down-regulation of GAB1, suggesting the potential therapeutic strategy for psoriasis.
Surviving anoxia: the maintenance of energy production and tissue integrity during anoxia and reoxygenation
Authors: Cox Georgina K. , Gillis Todd E.
Published: July 2020

The development of anoxia within tissues represents a significant challenge to most animals because of the decreased capacity for aerobic ATP production, the associated loss of essential cellular functions and the potential for detrimental tissue oxidation upon reoxygenation. Despite these challenges, there are many animals from multiple phyla that routinely experience anoxia and can fully recover. In this Review, we integrate knowledge gained from studies of anoxia-tolerant species across many animal taxa. We primarily focus on strategies used to reduce energy requirements, minimize the consequences of anaerobic ATP production and reduce the adverse effects of reactive oxygen species, which are responsible for tissue damage with reoxygenation. We aim to identify common strategies, as well as novel solutions, to the challenges of anoxia exposure. This Review chronologically examines the challenges faced by animals as they enter anoxia, as they attempt to maintain physiological function during prolonged anoxic exposure and, finally, as they emerge from anoxia. The capacity of animals to survive anoxia is also considered in relation to the increasing prevalence of anoxic zones within marine and freshwater environments, and the need to understand what limits survival.
Dosimetric study of whole-brain irradiation with high-energy photon beams for dose reduction to the scalp
Authors: Sawada Masafumi , Kunieda Etsuo , Akiba Takeshi , Kabuki Shigeto , Nagao Ryuta , Fukuzawa Tsuyoshi , Matsumoto Yoshitsugu , Shigematsu Naoyuki
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To evaluate the efficiency of high-energy photons for mitigating alopecia due to whole-brain irradiation (WBRT).

Methods:

Planning CT data from 10 patients who received WBRT were collected. We prepared 4 WBRT plans that used 6 or 15 MV photon beams, with or without use of a field-in-field (FiF) technique, and compared outcomes using a treatment planning system. The primary outcome was dose parameters to the scalp, including the mean dose, maximum dose, and dose received to 50% scalp

(D50%). Secondary outcomes were minimum dose to the brain surface.

Results:

Using FiF, the mean doses were 24.4–26.0 and 22.4–24.1 Gy, and the maximum doses were 30.5–32.1 and 28.5–30.8 Gy for 6 and 15 MV photon beams, respectively. Without FiF, the mean doses were 24.6–26.9 and 22.6–24.5 Gy, and the maximum doses were 30.8–34.6 and 28.6–32.4 Gy for 6 and 15 MV photon beams. The 15 MV plan resulted in a lower scalp dose for each dose parameter (p < 0.001). Using FiF, the minimum doses to the brain surface for the 6 and 15 MV plans were 28.9 ± 0.440 and 29.0 ± 0.557 Gy, respectively (p = 0.70). Without FiF, the minimum doses to the brain surface for the 6 and 15 MV plans were 28.9 ± 0.456 and 29.0 ± 0.529, respectively (p = 0.66).

Conclusion:

Compared with the 6 MV plan, the 15 MV plan achieved a lower scalp dose without impairing the brain surface dose.

Advances in knowledge:

High-energy photon WBRT may mitigate alopecia of patients who receiving WBRT.
Estimating the overdispersion in COVID-19 transmission using outbreak sizes outside China
Authors: Endo Akira ,   Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases COVID-19 Working Group, Abbott Sam , Kucharski Adam J. , Funk Sebastian
Published: July 2020

Background: A novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak has now spread to a number of countries worldwide. While sustained transmission chains of human-to-human transmission suggest high basic reproduction number R0, variation in the number of secondary transmissions (often characterised by so-called superspreading events) may be large as some countries have observed fewer local transmissions than others.

Methods: We quantified individual-level variation in COVID-19 transmission by applying a mathematical model to observed outbreak sizes in affected countries. We extracted the number of imported and local cases in the affected countries from the World Health Organization situation report and applied a branching process model where the number of secondary transmissions was assumed to follow a negative-binomial distribution.

Results: Our model suggested a high degree of individual-level variation in the transmission of COVID-19. Within the current consensus range of R0 (2-3), the overdispersion parameter k of a negative-binomial distribution was estimated to be around 0.1 (median estimate 0.1; 95% CrI: 0.05-0.2 for R0 = 2.5), suggesting that 80% of secondary transmissions may have been caused by a small fraction of infectious individuals (~10%). A joint estimation yielded likely ranges for R0 and k (95% CrIs: R0 1.4-12; k 0.04-0.2); however, the upper bound of R0 was not well informed by the model and data, which did not notably differ from that of the prior distribution.

Conclusions: Our finding of a highly-overdispersed offspring distribution highlights a potential benefit to focusing intervention efforts on superspreading. As most infected individuals do not contribute to the expansion of an epidemic, the effective reproduction number could be drastically reduced by preventing relatively rare superspreading events.
Learned linear models for detecting watercraft in a maritime environment
Authors: Olson C. C. , Nichols J. M.
Published: July 2020

This work provides a new, to the best of our knowledge, approach to
constructing linear models for object detection in a scene.
Specifically, we use representative training data in order to estimate
the parameters describing a generalized wavelet model for the express
purpose of detecting the presence of maritime targets in a scene. The
parameter estimates are taken as those that maximize the probability
of detecting the targets for a fixed probability of false alarm. The
approach is then demonstrated on a database of short-wave infrared
imagery containing various watercraft. Results are then compared to
some of the more standard wavelet bases used in detection
applications.
Coupling coefficients for dielectric cuboids located in free space
Authors: Trubin A. , Kupriianov A. S. , Fesenko V. I. , Tuz V. R.
Published: July 2020

Practical formulas are derived for calculating the far-field radiation pattern and coupling coefficient of a rectangular dielectric resonator (cuboid) with free space as well as mutual coupling coefficients between two cuboids for their different orientations relative to each other. An approach is developed using the coupled mode theory and the perturbation theory for the Maxwell equations. The correctness of obtained formulas is checked against the full-wave numerical simulations performed by the COMSOL Multiphysics electromagnetic solver. In particular, the obtained formulas can be used for revealing optical features of realistic (i.e., consisting of a finite number of resonators) all-dielectric metasurfaces with arbitrary curved shapes.
Revisiting the generalized polar decomposition of Mueller matrices
Authors: Heinrich Christian , Rehbinder Jean , Zallat Jihad
Published: July 2020

Mueller polarimetry is a powerful imaging modality that has been successfully applied to various application fields. Decomposition of Mueller matrices in elementary components is classically considered in order to unfold complex physical phenomena taking place in probed samples or scenes. In this context, the generalized polar decomposition, also known as Lu and Chipman decomposition, plays a prominent role. In this paper, we show that the set of candidate generalized polar decompositions is richer than the set used so far. Negative-determinant Mueller matrices are naturally addressed in the proposed framework. We show that taking into account those supplementary polar decompositions addresses issues raised in the literature. Application is carried out on synthetic and on measured Mueller matrices.
Transmission enhancement in periodic chiral metamaterials with dispersion and gain
Authors: Huang Yanyan , Zhu Qingqing , Zhang Xiaowei , Yu Xiang , Chen Hongli , Zhong Chonggui
Published: July 2020

The transmission properties are presented for periodic metamaterials composed of dispersive and gain chiral media. Our numerical results predict that for transverse-electric (TE) and transverse-magnetic (TM) incident waves, the co-polarization transmission enhancement can be realized as the transmittance is larger than 0.9. As the parameters of the unit cell are fixed, the multiband of the co-polarization transmission enhancement with broad bandwidth will be obtained for both TE and TM waves as the angle of incidence varies. Meanwhile, the co-polarization transmission enhancement in an ultrawide incident angle range (

0

∼

78
∘

,

0

∼

86.3
∘

) can be achieved for certain frequencies (35.5 GHz, 35.3 GHz). Furthermore, the co-polarization transmission enhancement for TM waves appears in the whole frequency band (

15

∼
120

G
H
z

) as the angle of incidence satisfies the range of (

54.9

∘

∼

65.9
∘

). Finally, the suitable frequency band and broad bandwidth of the transmission enhancement for both TE and TM waves can be modulated by adjusting the period

T

and the thickness of chiral layer

a

. We anticipate that this work offers the opportunity for obtaining broadband and wide-angle transmission enhancement for TE and TM waves, which will shed light on the future design of microwave filters.
Enhancing the sensitivity of plasmonic optical fiber sensors by analyzing the distribution of the optical modes intensity
Authors: Vindas Karim , Buhot Arnaud , Livache Thierry , Garrigue Patrick , Sojic Neso , Leroy Loïc , Engel Elodie
Published: July 2020

Improving the sensitivity of plasmonic optical fiber sensors constitutes a major challenge as it could significantly enhance their sensing capabilities for the label-free detection of biomolecular interactions or chemical compounds. While many efforts focus on developing more sensitive structures, we present here how the sensitivity of a sensor can be significantly enhanced by improving the light analysis. Contrary to the common approach where the global intensity of the light coming from the core is averaged, our approach is based on the full analysis of the retro-reflected intensity distribution that evolves with the refractive index of the medium being analyzed. Thanks to this original and simple approach, the refractive index sensitivity of a plasmonic optical fiber sensor used in reflection mode was enhanced by a factor of 25 compared to the standard method. The reported approach opens exciting perspectives for improving the remote detection as well as for developing new sensing strategies.
Controlling amplified spontaneous emission of quantum dots by polymerized nanostructure interfaces
Authors: Guo Jinxin , Jian Jialing , Wang Dayong , Zhang Xinping
Published: July 2020

We report a new polymer/colloidal-quantum-dot (CQD) film with a nanostructured interface, which is fabricated through a template-assisted photopolymerization method, toward the use of amplified spontaneous emission. It is experimentally demonstrated that the amplified spontaneous emission of CQDs is able to be manipulated by changing the nanostructured polymeric interface with a weak scattering ability. The dependences of emission wavelength and threshold on the size of the nanostructure and CQD layer thickness are investigated.
22.9  W CW single-frequency laser at 671  nm by frequency doubling of Nd:YVO4 laser
Authors: Zhang Yi-Xuan , Wang Zhi-Min , Zhou Zi-Han , Zhang Feng-Feng , Liu Xu-Chao , Zong Nan , Yong Bo , Peng Qin-Jun
Published: July 2020

A stable, 22.9 W, 671 nm single-frequency laser using a type II noncritically phase-matched external-cavity frequency doubling is demonstrated. The output power of the fundamental laser is 32.1 W; the corresponding conversion efficiency of frequency doubling from 1342 to 671 nm is calculated to be 71.3%. The

M

2

factors are measured to be 1.10 and 1.08 in the x and y directions, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, 22.9 W is the highest power obtained for a 671 nm single-frequency laser.
All 2D WSe2/MoS2 heterojunction photodiode and its image sensor application
Authors: Ahn Jongtae , Kang Ji-Hoon , Park Min-Chul , Hwang Do Kyung
Published: July 2020

Two-dimensional (2D) layered van der Waals atomic crystals exhibit many fascinating properties. In particular, their dangling-bond-free nature enables different 2D materials to be stacked on the top of each other without restraint, thereby forming a heterostructure. In this study, a high-performance all 2D

W
S
e

2

/

M
o
S

2

heterojunction photodiode with a graphene contact as an electrode is demonstrated. It exhibits an excellent electrical performance (ideality factor of 1.2 and rectification ratio of

10

4

), a broad spectral photoresponse (from 450 to 980 nm), and a remarkable linearity with a linear dynamic range of 113 dB. Finally, a self-powered single pixel imager is demonstrated as a feasible optoelectronic application.
Gas identification in high-Q microbubble resonators
Authors: Peng Zhong-Di , Yu Chang-Qiu , Ren Hong-Liang , Zou Chang-Ling , Guo Guang-Can , Dong Chun-Hua
Published: July 2020

A new, to the best of our knowledge, experimental mechanism is reported to realize the identification of gas by a microcavity sensor. Instead of measuring the change in the environment refractive index or absorption, the gas is detected indirectly and indentified by using the thermo-optics effect of a high-quality-factor microbubble resonator. When passing gas through the microbubble, the pressure induces a geometric deformation and thus an observable frequency shift, and the thermal bistability response varies due to the higher heat dissipation by gas molecules. With the two output parameters, we can unambiguously distinguish gas with different molecular weights, e.g., He,N2, andCO2. Our demonstration opens a new avenue of microcavity sensing by using indirect interaction between light and matter, realizing a multiple-parameter sensing approach for gas or solvent identification.
Uma “nova profissão”: A Fundação Rockefeller e a formação de profissionais para a saúde pública (primeira metade do século XX)
Authors: Korndörfer Ana Paula
Published: July 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir a atuação da Fundação Rockefeller, instituição filantrópica norte-americana, na formação de profissionais para a saúde pública na primeira metade do século XX. A partir da análise da historiografia e de documentação produzida pela própria Fundação, enfocaremos o investimento da instituição, através, principalmente, da Divisão Internacional de Saúde, na organização e no financiamento de escolas de saúde pública, como a Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health (Estados Unidos), e na concessão de bolsas de estudos para a formação de especialistas.
“O Mundo de 2020”: Relações sociais e meio ambiente na distopia de 1973.
Authors: Da Silva Franco Santos Alves
Published: July 2020

O presente artigo busca analisar o filme “O Mundo de 2020”, (Soylent Green, no título original), de 1973, do diretor Richard Fleischer e estrelado por Charlton Heston. Trata-se de uma narrativa distópica que se passa na Nova Iorque de 2022, com uma superpopulação de 40 milhões, extrema pobreza, fome generalizada, escassez de água e energia elétrica. Os oceanos estão poluídos, o Planeta Terra está superaquecido e a polícia controla com violência os motins de fome. A Soylent Corporation é uma multinacional que controla metade da alimentação do planeta, vendendo comidas sintéticas super proteicas que dizem ser feitas de plâncton. O detetive Thorn é chamado para investigar o assassinato de um rico executivo e começa descobrir segredos obscuros sobre a produção do alimento. O presente artigo busca compreender a produção do filme na emergência das questões geopolíticas da década de 1970, na emergência dos Movimentos Ambientalistas e na constituição da História Ambiental enquanto disciplina e campo de estudos. Além do longa-metragem, o artigo analisa o cartaz do filme, bem como resenhas de críticos de cinema contemporâneos ao seu lançamento.