bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
METS-IR, a Novel Score to Evaluate Insulin Sensitivity, is Associated with the Urinary Albumin–Creatinine Ratio in Chinese Adults: A Cross-sectional REACTION Study
Authors: Su Wanlu , Wang Jie , Yu Songyan , Chen Kang , Yan Wenhua , Gao Zhengnan , Tang Xuelei , Wan Qin , Luo Zuojie , Ning Guang , Mu Yiming
Published: February 2021

Background: The metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) is a novel noninsulin-based metabolic index used as a substitution marker of insulin resistance and for cardiovascular disease evaluation. However, whether METS-IR is associated with the urinary albumin–creatinine ratio (UACR) is not well known. Therefore, we explored the age- and sex-related associations between METS-IR and UACR and compared the discriminative ability of the METS-IR index and its components for elevated UACR. Methods: This study included 37,290 subjects from the REACTION study (Risk Evaluation of cAncers in Chinese diabeTic Individuals: a IONgitudinal study). METS-IR was calculated as follows:(Ln[2×fasting blood glucose{mg/dL}+fasting triglyceride level{mg/dL}]×body mass index)/(Ln [high-density lipoprotein cholesterol{mg/dL}]). Participants were divided into four groups on the basis of METS-IR: <25%, 25%–49%, 50%–74%, and ≥75%. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the associations between METS-IR vs. its components{(fasting blood glucose(FBG), fasting triglyceride level, body mass index, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol} with UACR. Results: Participants with the highest quartile METS-IR, particularly men,presented a more significant trend towards elevated UACR than towards its components (odds ratio [OR]: 1.260, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.152–1.378, P<0.001 in all subjects; OR: 1.321, 95% CI: 1.104–1.579, P=0.002 in men; OR: 1.201, 95% CI: 1.083–1.330, P < 0.001 in women). There were significant associations between METS-IR and UACR in younger participants (<65 years for women and 55–64 years for men) and those with an estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥ 90 mL/min/1.73 m2. Increased METS-IR was significantly associated with UACR in men with FBG ≥ 5.6 mmol/L or postprandial blood glucose ≥ 7.8 mmol/L and systolic blood pressure ≥ 120mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 80 mmHg. The relationships were significant in women with diabetes and hypertension. Conclusions: Increased METS-IR was significantly associated with elevated UACR, and its discriminative power for elevated UACR was superior to that of its components. The findings support the clinical significance of METS-IR for evaluating the cardiometabolic risk and renal function damage among Chinese adults.
Timing of Admission to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit is Associated with in-Hospital Mortality
Authors: Kim Mi Kyoung , Jung Eun-Joo , Park Seulkee , Kim Im-kyung
Published: February 2021

Background: Knowledge about the relationship between timing of admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and mortality among surgical patients admitted for acute care is limited.Objective: We aimed to investigate whether admission to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) during after-hours (all the times when intensivists were not staffed in the ICU) was associated with in-hospital mortality.Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary academic hospital, in which we analyzed data of 571 patients admitted to the SICU whose complete medical records were available. The work-hours were defined as 07:00-19:00 from Monday to Friday during which intensivists were staffed in the ICU. The after-hours were defined as all other times during which intensivists were not staffed in the SICU. The primary outcome measurement was in-hospital mortality according to the time of SICU admission.Results: In all, 333 and 238 patients were admitted to the SICU during work-hours and after-hours, respectively. Unplanned admissions (33.3% vs. 47.1%, p<0.001), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score ≥25 (11.1% vs. 23.9%, p<0.001), ventilator support (17.4% vs. 34.0%, p<0.001), and use of inotropics (33.3% vs. 50.0%, p<0.001) were significantly higher in the after-hours group than in the work-hours group. In the multivariate analyses of the association between the time of SICU admission and in-hospital mortality, the timing of SICU admission was an independent factor for in-hospital mortality (OR=2.526; 95% CI=1.010-6.320, p=0.048). Conclusions: In this study, we found that admission to the SICU during after-hours was associated with increased in-hospital mortality.
Mitogenome and Phylogenetic Analysis of Typhlocybine Leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)
Authors: Jiang Jia , Chen Xiaoxiao , Li Can , Song Yuehua
Published: February 2021

Mitogenomes play an active role in determining the relationship between insect phylogeny and evolution and solve some problems encountered in traditional morphological classification. In order to increase the mitogenome data of leafhoppers the mitogenomes of Cassianeura cassiae and C. bimaculata were sequenced in this study and found to be 15,423 bp and 14,597 bp in length respectively. The gene structure was found to be similar to other published leafhopper mitogenomes, but we found the length of the control region of C. bimaculata to be the shortest in existing studies. The phylogenetic analysis of 13 PCGs resulted in a well-supported tree topology but species in Typhlocybini and Zyginellini were mixed. Meanwhile, this study also provided the phylogenetic analysis based on the body external morphology, female genitalia morphology and male genitalia morphology of 9 species of Typhlocybinae. The results showed that the female sternite VII of different species is quite different, but the female valvulae of different species in the same genus shows a certain consistency. The morphological phylogenetic tree is basically the same structure as the molecular phylogenetic tree. In the two different kinds of phylogenetic trees, Typhlocybini and Zyginellini clustered into one clade, showing a more closed relationship.
Intracranial Germ Cells Tumour: a single institution experience in Argentina
Authors: Baroni Lorena Viviana , Oller Agustina , Freytes Candela Soledad , Sampor Claudia Vanesa , Fernandez Nicolas Ponce , Pinto Natalia , Rugilo Carlos , Lubieniecki Fabiana , Zubizarreta Pedro , Alderete Daniel Horacio
Published: February 2021

Background: Intracranial germ cell tumor (iGCT) represents a rare and heterogeneous group, with variable incidence and diverse treatment strategies. Although multiagent chemotherapy with reduced radiotherapy strategy has been applied by several cooperative groups in North America and Western Europe, there is a paucity of data to understand if this combined regimen issuitable in low-middle income countries (LMIC).Methods: We evaluate the outcome in a cohort of iGCT treated by SIOP-CNS-GCT-96 strategy at Hospital J.P Garrahan in Argentinaover the last 20 years. Radiation field and dose included focal radiotherapy (FRT) before 2009 or focal radiotherapy plus whole ventricular radiotherapy (WVRT) after 2009 for localized germinoma and FRT or FRT plus WVRT or CSI for non germinomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCT)Results: Sixty iGCT were identified; 39 germinoma and 21 NGGCT. Median follow-up was 6.57 years (range 0.13-20.5). Five-year PFS and OS were 83.5% (95% CI [165.53 - 223.2]) and 88.7% (95% CI [169.84 - 223.2]) for the germinoma group, while for the NGGCT group were 75% (95% CI [133.27 – 219.96]) and 64.2% (95% CI [107.38 – 201.81]) respectively. The localized germinoma group showed poor results between 2000-2009 with 5-year PFS and OS of 69% and 75% respectively, and an excellent outcome between 2010-2019 with a 5-years PFS and OS of 92.8% and 100%. A univariable analysis identified this difference in survival as related to the field of radiotherapy, specifically whole ventricular radiotherapy. FRT increased the risk of recurrence in localized germinoma, involving not only ventricular relapses; but spinal cord and disseminated disease as well. There were no relapses of localized NGGCT after FRT and FRT plus WVRT.Conclusion: Herein we demonstrate that intensive chemotherapy followed by FRT plus WVRT for germinoma is a feasible and effective strategy, warranting further study in the developing world.
Managing the Energy Trilemma in the Philippines
Authors: Yap Josef T. , Gabriola Aaron Joseph P. , Herrera Chrysogonus F.
Published: February 2021

Background The transition to an energy mix with lower carbon emissions is hampered by the existence of the so-called energy trilemma. The primary consequence is a trade-off between various objectives of energy policy, e.g., equity and sustainability. This paper proposes a framework and methodology to manage the trilemma by applying methods related to multi-criteria decision making in order to assign weights to the various components of the trilemma.Results Following the International Energy Agency (IEA), an expanded concept of energy security is adopted and translates to a version of the trilemma different from that of the World Energy Council. This study takes into account autarky, price, supply, and carbon emissions. The values of these variables are generated by a software called PLEXOS and are incorporated in a welfare function. Trade-offs and complementarities among the four variables are taken into account by the equations in the PLEXOS model. Meanwhile, weights for each of the components of the trilemma are obtained using the Analytical Hierarchy Process. The experts interviewed for this exercise are considered hypothetical heads of the Philippine Department of Energy (DOE).Conclusion Two scenarios were compared: a market-based simulation and one where a carbon-tax was imposed. The ranking clearly depended on the preferences of the hypothetical heads of the DOE. Policy options can, therefore, be ranked using the values generated by the welfare function. In this manner, trade-offs are measured and the trilemma can be managed even if it is not resolved.
Stand Stability of Pure and Mixed Eucalyptus Forests of Different tree Species in a Typhoon-prone Area
Authors: Deng Haiyan , Shen Linlin , Yang Jiaqi , Mo Xiaoyong
Published: February 2021

Background: Stable stand structure of mixed plantations is the basis of giving full play to forest ecological function and benefit, and the pure Eucalyptus plantations with large-area and successive planting have presented to be unstable and vulnerable in typhoon-prone area. In this study, we investigated eight 30 m × 30 m plots randomly in pure and mixed eucalyptus forests on growth status, characterized and compared the distribution of non-spatial structure of mixtures with that of mono-species plantation, and evaluated the stand quality and stability from eight indexes including preservation rate, stand density, height, diameter, stem form, degree of slant, tree species composition and age structure, so as to find out the best mixed composition and pattern of eucalyptus and other tree species in typhoon-prone area. Results: Eucalyptus surviving in the mixed forest of Eucalyptus and A. mangium (EA) and the mixed forest of Eucalyptus and P. elliottii × P. caribaea (EP) were 5.0% and 7.6% greater than those in pure Eucalyptus forest (E) respectively, while only the stand preservation rate of EA was greater (+2.9%) than that of pure Eucalyptus forest. The proportions of all mixtures on the height class that greater than 7 m were fewer than that of monoculture. The proportion of EA and EN (mixed forest of Eucalyptus and N.cadamba) on the diameter class that greater than 7 m were 10.6% and 7.8% respectively more than that of monoculture. EN got a highest ratio of branching visibly (41%), EA got a highest ratio of slant stems (8.1%) and EP got a most straight and complete stem form (68.7%). The stand stability of the mixed forest of Eucalyptus and A. mangium presents to be optimal for its subordinate function value (0.76) and status value (ω = 0.607) of real stand were the largest. Conclusion: A. mangium is a most superior tree specie to mix with Eucalyptus for a more stable stand structure in the early growth stage to approach an evident and immense stability and resistance, which is of great significance for the forest restoration of Eucalyptus in response to extreme climate and on the forest management.
Association of Golfing Career and Musculoskeletal Problems of the yips: A Large Scale Epidemiological Study in Japan
Authors: Gon Yasufumi , Kabata Daijiro , Kawamura Sadahito , Mihara Masahito , Shintani Ayumi , Nakata Ken , Mochizuki Hideki
Published: February 2021

Background: The yips are a set of conditions associated with intermittent motor disturbance that affects precision movement, especially in sports. Specifically, skilled golfers suffer from the yips, although its clinical characteristics and pathophysiology have not been well studied. Methods: The purpose of this study was aimed to conduct an epidemiological investigation and explore potential confounding factors associated with the yips among skilled golfers in Japan. We surveyed highly-skilled golfers for characterizing the yips-related symptoms. The survey comprised golfers’ demographic information, golfing-career-related history, musculoskeletal status, and manifestations of the yips. The answers obtained were statistically analyzed to examine the association between golf and the yips.Results: Among the 1,576 questionnaires distributed, 1,457 (92%) responded, of which 39% experienced the yips. The median age and golfing careers were 48 and 28 years, respectively. Golfers with the yips experience were older, had longer golfing careers, and more frequent musculoskeletal problems than those without the yips experience. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a longer golfing career [odds ratio (OR), 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.04–1.11] and musculoskeletal problems (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.03–1.13) were independent factors associated with the yips experience. More severe musculoskeletal problems were associated with higher odds of experiencing the yips. Changing the training method and/or hitting style were effective for improving the yips.Conclusions: Our results revealed that the yips has similar characteristics to task-specific movement disorders, with a detrimental effect caused by excessive repetition of a routine task and a positive association between the yips and musculoskeletal problems. These findings supported the notion that the yips is a type of task-specific dystonia.
Risk factors, clinical outcome and complications of Common Gynecological Surgeries at Zagazig University Hospital, Egypt
Authors: Ibrahim Safaa A. , Abdalla Mena M.
Published: February 2021

In present era, with the availability of better health care facilities and understanding of health issues, women are experiencing longer life expectancy and using more gynecological services, so obviously there is increase in gynecological surgeries. Any surgical procedure carries risks of complications. The risk of postoperative complications depends on individual characteristics, including age, medical comorbidities, and functional status. The aim of study was to reduce rates of mortality/morbidity among women who undergo surgical gynecological intervention at Zagazig University Hospital. This study included 212 cases were retrived prospectively in a cross sectional study. They underwent gynecological interventions. Our study group was 212 cases 24 cases ended with morbidity with percentage of 11.3% and 2 cases ended by death with percentage of 0.9% . This study shows that the most frequent complications among the studied group were septic wound infection (2.4%), bladder injury (2.4%), respiratory tract infection (1.9%),Venous thromboembolism(VTE) (1.9%) and GIT injury (1.4%). This study explains that there were two mortality cases the first case died on table due to primary hemorrhage during hysterectomy operation as a result of great vessel injury and the other case died during hysterectomy operation due to venous thromboembolic catastrophe (Pulmonary embolism). During post-operative period, she developed hypoxia; therefore, she was referred to ICU. Unfortunately, the patient was diagnosed as pulmonary embolism; thus, she was admitted at ICU for 3 days, but she finally died. Conclusion With the availability of highly skilled personnel with improved surgical expertise, safe anesthesia and collaboration of other specialized medical personnel, the major complications and mortality rate will decrease, but the postoperative complications like, fever, respiratory tract infection, septic wound and DVT still frequent in a significant number of patients in our community, which brings about much distress to the patients.
Facile Synthesis, Diffused Reflectance Spectroscopy & Fluorescence Studies of Ni0.5-xMg0.5CuxFe2O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Chavan Pradeep
Published: February 2021

The present study focused on the structural, morphological, optical and fluorescence properties of Ni 0.5-x Mg 0.5 Cu x Fe 2 O 4 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5) nanoparticles synthesized by using auto combustion technique. The structural formation of the ferrite nanoparticles were confirmed by FTIR spectroscopic study. From FTIR spectra of the synthesized ferrite nanoparticles, metal ions are situated in two different sub lattices i.e. tetrahedral (A-site) and octahedral (B-site) in ferrites. The surface morphology and grain size of Cu substituted Ni-Mg ferrite nanoparticles were estimated from the micrographs of atomic force microscopy (AFM); the maximum grain size 54.69 nm was obtained. Spectra of UV-Visible absorption of the synthesized ferrite nanoparticles were carried-out by using UV-Vis spectrophotometry; the maximum absorption was observed at 418 nm. The energy band gap of ferrite nanoparticles has been estimated using UV-Vis absorption spectra; the energy band gap 3.50 eV was obtained. From the fluorescence emission spectroscopy of synthesized ferrite nanoparticles, the ferrite samples emit red colour in the region of 680 nm.
Agroforestry a pathway to climate smart agribusiness: Lessons to smallholder farmers
Authors: Kassa Getahun
Published: February 2021

Agroforestry systems have become increasingly relevant in recent days as they introduced new commercial opportunities to smallholder farmers. In the same vein, being an eco-friendly practice has gained agroforestry systems popularity as a climate-smart agriculture practice. However, exploiting the investment potential of agroforestry systems requires understanding their challenges and opportunities as a business. The review addresses the combination of annual crops with trees to ensure stable income, social, and environmental justice. In a nutshell, by creating a productive, resilient, and low-emission land-use for smallholder farmers, agroforestry systems can be an effective and efficient pathway towards climate-smart agribusiness and to the achievement of the Global Goal of Sustainable Development.
Optical Properties of SiO2 – TiO2 – La2O3 – Na2O – Y2O3 glasses and A novel process of preparing the parent glass-ceramics
Authors: El-Rehim A. F. Abd , Wahab E. A Abdel , Halaka M. M. Abou , shaaban Kh. S.
Published: February 2021

Quaternary glasses with the composition 50SiO2 – 25TiO2 – 5La2O3 – (20-x) Na2O – xY2O3 where x: (0≤x≥10) were synthesized using the melt-quench technique. XRD examined the nature of prepared glasses. UV-spectroscopic of investigated glass system studied at room temperature. Both optical bandgap and refractive index of the present glass have been increased. The polarizability and basicity were determined. Thermal parameter values increased as Y2O3 increased. Under controlling heat, the glass-ceramic were prepared and confirmed using XRD. Glass-ceramics are examined using SEM to evaluate a microstructure. Ultrasonic velocities and elastic-moduli of glass-ceramic samples are increased because of the increase in internal energy. The role of Y2O3 modifier in the glass system is clearly demonstrated. Y2O3 also works as an excellent nucleating agent that can induce crystallizations, supporting in the creation of the sub-phase of glass-ceramics.
Development of Thermo Mechanical Model for Prediction of Temperature Diffusion In Different Fsw Tool Pin Geometries During Joining of Az80A Mg Alloys
Authors: D Dhanesh Babu S , P Sevvel , R Senthil Kumar , V Vijayan , J Subramani
Published: February 2021

Heat generated during the friction stir welding (FSW) process is of complex nature and plays a vital role in influencing the quality of the fabricated joints. In this experimental research, an thermo mechanical process model was formulated to estimate the values of peak temperatures generated during the employment of FSW tools with four different pin geometries (namely cylindrical, taper cylindrical, square and triangle) for joining of AZ80A Mg alloy flat plates, to understand their significant role in influencing the size of the grains, their mechanical strength and in the quality of the joints. The peak temperature values of the formulated thermo mechanical process model are found to be consistent with that of the actual experimental results and exhibited relatively very small variation It was observed that the joints fabricated by taper cylindrical pin geometry was found to possess very fine sized grains, due to the generation of ideal peak temperature (ie., 3480C which is nearly 81–82% of the melting temperature of AZ80A Workpiece).
Development of a Model for Predicting the 4-year Risk of Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis in China: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Limin , Lu Han , Chen Hongbo , Jin Shida , Wang Mengqi , Shang Shaomei
Published: February 2021

Objectives: We aimed to develop a model for predicting the 4-year risk of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) based on survey data obtained via a random, nationwide sample of Chinese individuals.Methods: Data was analyzed from 8,193 middle-aged and older adults included in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). The incident of symptomatic KOA was defined as participants who were free of symptomatic KOA at baseline (CHARLS2011) and diagnosed with symptomatic KOA at the 4-year follow-up (CHARLS2015). The effects of potential predictors on the incident of KOA were estimated using logistic regression models and the final model was internally validated using the bootstrapping technique. Model performance was assessed based on discrimination—area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and calibration. Results: A total of 815 incidents of KOA were identified at the 4-year follow-up, resulting in a cumulative incidence of approximately 9.95%. The final multivariable model included age, sex, waist circumference, residential area, difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs)/instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), history of hip fracture, depressive symptoms, number of chronic comorbidities, self-rated health status, and level of moderate physical activity (MPA). The risk model showed good discrimination with AUC = 0.719 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.700–0.737), optimism-corrected AUC = 0.712 after bootstrap validation. A satisfactory agreement was observed between the observed and predicted probability of incident symptomatic KOA. And a simple clinical score model was developed for quantifying the risk of KOA.Conclusion: Our prediction model may aid the early identification of individuals at the greatest risk of developing KOA within 4 years.
Clinical features and disease severity in patients with mosaic neurofibromatosis type 1: a single-center study and literature review
Authors: Ejerskov Cecilie , Raundahl Maj , Gregersen Pernille Axel , Handrup Mette Møller
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe mosaic form of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is called mosaic NF1 (MNF1). No specific MNF1 follow-up guidelines exist. It is debatable if patients with MNF1 should be clinically examined and undergo follow-up in accordance with the standard NF1 guidelines, as MNF1 patients more often may develop more benign phenotypes and thereby less disease-associated complications including cognitive impairment. We discussed the need for a specific MNF1 follow-up guideline with focus on frequency of plexiform neurofibromas and NF1-associated complications.MethodA systematic retrospective data collection in a MNF1 cohort from one of two Danish national centers of NF1 Expertise was completed. Data collected included demographics, clinical features including NF1 diagnostic criteria and NF1-associated complications. Recent literature in the field was reviewed.ResultsWe identified 17 patients with MNF1 with a median age of 37 years [4; 66]. Eleven (65%) were females. Five patients (30%) had a plexiform neurofibroma. The median age at detection of plexiform neurofibroma was 30 years [14; 60]. Nine (53%) had at least one NF1-related complication; scoliosis, hypertension, ADHD, learning disability, language delay, autism and delay in gross and fine motor function development. We reviewed nine articles. In total, 126 cases were described within three case-series. Nineteen (15%) had a plexiform neurofibroma and in total, 23 NF1-associated complications were reported including language delay, learning disability and skeletal abnormalities. Furthermore, from the literature it was evident that the diagnosing of MNF1 varies among physicians and across countries. ConclusionPatients with MNF1 present with plexiform neurofibromas and other NF1-related complications with a frequency requiring that follow-up of MNF1 patients should be in accordance with the standard NF1 guideline in both childhood and adulthood. Physicians should be aware of cognitive impairment as a complication to MNF1. To develop a specific MNF1 follow-up guideline, there is a need for an international consensus on the diagnostic criteria for MNF1 and a follow-up study conducted in a larger MNF1 cohort.
STUDY ON MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION OF THE TURNING PROCESS OF EN 10503 STEEL BY COMBINATION OF TAGUCHI METHOD AND MOORA TECHNIQUE
Authors: Trung Do Duc , Nguyen Nhu-Tung , Van Duc Duong
Published: February 2021

In this study, the multi-objective optimization problem of turning process was successfully solved by a Taguchi combination method and MOORA techniques. In external turning process of EN 10503 steel, surface grinding process, the orthogonal Taguchi L9 matrix was selected to design the experimental matrix with four input parameters namely insert nose radius, cutting velocity, feed rate, and depth of cut. The parameters that were chosen as the evaluation criteria of the machining process were the surface roughness (Ra), the cutting force amplitudes in X, Y, Z directions, and the material removal rate (MRR). Using Taguchi method and MOORA technique, the optimized results of the cutting parameters were determined to obtain the minimum values of surface roughness and cutting force amplitudes in X, Y, Z directions, and maximum value of MRR. These optimal values of insert nose radius, cutting velocity, feed rate, and cutting depth were 1.2 mm, 76.82 m/min, 0.194 mm/rev, and 0.15 mm, respectively. Corresponding to these optimal values of the input parameters, the surface roughness, cutting force amplitudes in X, Y, Z directions, and material removal rate were 0.675 µm, 124.969 N, 40.545 N, 164.206 N, and 38.130 mm3/s, respectively. The proposed method in this study can be applied to improve the quality and effectiveness of turning processes by improving the surface quality, reducing the cutting force amplitudes, and increasing the material removal rate. Finally, the research direction was also proposed in this study
Shape of a sound wave in a weakly-perturbed Bose gas
Authors: Marchukov Oleksandr , Volosniev Artem
Published: February 2021

We employ the Gross-Pitaevskii equation to study acoustic emission
generated in a uniform Bose gas by a static impurity. The impurity
excites a sound-wave packet, which propagates through the gas. We
calculate the shape of this wave packet in the limit of long
wavelengths, and argue that it is possible to extract properties of the
impurity by observing this shape. We illustrate here this possibility
for a Bose gas with a trapped impurity atom – an example of a relevant
experimental setup. Presented results are general for all
one-dimensional systems described by the nonlinear Schr"{o}dinger
equation and can also be used in nonatomic systems, e.g., to analyze
light propagation in nonlinear optical media. Finally, we calculate the
shape of the sound-wave packet for a three-dimensional Bose gas assuming
a spherically symmetric perturbation.
Triazoloquinolines I: Synthetic Methods and Pharmacological Properties of [1,2,3]triazoloquinoline Derivatives
Authors: Khidre Rizk E. , Radini Ibrahim M.A. , Ameen Tahah A. , Abdelgawad Ahmed A.M.
Published: February 2021

This review deals with the synthetic methods and pharmacological properties of
[1,2,3]triazoloquinoline derivatives. There are ten isomers of fused [1,2,3]triazoloquinoline
according to the junction between triazole and quinoline. The synthetic methods are subdivided
into groups according to the type of isomers. The pharmacological activity of
[1,2,3]triazoloquinoline was also reported.
Enhancing the Li+ Diffusion in Li3VO4 by Coupling with Reduced
Graphene Oxide for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Guo Mingxuan , Li Haibo
Published: February 2021

Background:

Owing to the excellent theoretical specific capacity and safety intercalation
potential, Li3VO4 (LVO) has been proposed as an advanced anode material for lithium ions batteries
(LIBs). However, the LVO suffers from low electronic conductivity that limits its commercialization.

Objective:

The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is recommended to couple with micro-LVO particles
aiming to enhance the conductivity of composite electrodes.

Method:

The LVO@rGO composite is synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The morphology,
crystallinity, valance state and electrochemical behavior of LVO@rGO are characterized by
scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrochemical
workstation, respectively. Further, the LIBs’ performance is explored by making a coins-type
half-cell LIBs battery via battery system.

Results:

The Li+ diffusion rate of the optimized LVO@rGO electrode is 7.67×10-23 cm2/s, which
improves two orders of magnitudes of pure LVO electrode. As a result, the LVO@rGO anode delivers
a reversible capacity of 190.1 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g after 100 cycles, which is even twice higher than
that of pure LVO anode (90.6 mAh/g). Besides, it exhibits superior rate capability, i.e. a reversible
capability of 285.0, 220.2, 158.7, 105.2 and 71.7 mAh/g at 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0 A/g, respectively.

Conclusion:

The high conductivity and flexible texture enable rGO an idea building block to enhance
the Li ion diffusion of whole electrode. On the other hand, it is instrumental in alleviating the
aggregation of host materials, leading to high specific surface and specific capacity.
Effect of PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway on Regulating and Controlling the Anti-Invasion and Metastasis of Hepatoma Cells by Bufalin
Authors: Sheng Xia , Zhu Pengfei , Zhao Yi , Zhang Jinwei , Li Haijia , Zhao Huan , Qin Jianmin
Published: February 2021

Background:

Autophagy plays a “double-edged sword” in the process of tumorigenesis,
development and metastasis.

Objective:

In this study, we explored the effect of PI3K/AKT/mTOR autophagy-related signaling
pathway on regulating and controlling the invasion and metastasis of liver cancer cells by Bufalin.

Methods:

The cell counting, migration, adhesion and invasion assay were used to evaluate the effect
of Bufalin on cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis. The protein expression of PI3K/AKT/
mTOR signaling pathway were detected by the Western Blotting technique.

Results:

After inhibiting autophagy of HCC-LM3 cells, the inhibitory effect of Bufalin on adhesion,
migration and invasion of HCC-LM3 cells was significantly enhanced. Synergistic inhibition
was strongest when different autophagy inhibitors were combined with 3MA and CQ. After inhibiting
autophagy, Bufalin significantly inhibited the protein expression of P-AKT, Cyclin D1, MMP-
2, MMP-9 and VEGF in HCC-LM3 cells. The protein expression of PTEN and E-Cadherin in
HCC-LM3 cells was significantly increased.

Conclusion:

The present study shows that the anti-tumor effect of Bufalin mainly inhibit proliferation,
extracellular matrix degradation and angiogenesis of HCC by influencing autophagy. These
findings confirm the capability of Bufalin in inhibiting metastasis of HCC and in parallel to current
patents, could be applied as a novel therapeutic strategy in the prevention of metastasis of HCC.
Anti-Trichophyton Effects of Curcumin: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shakib Pegah , Ali Ali Safar Maken , Javanmard Ehsan , Mardanshah Omid , Mohaghegh Mohammad Ali , Zivdari Masoomeh , Beiranvand Marjan , Cheraghipour Kourosh
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

Today, we see advances in the use of medicinal plants in the treatment of
fungal infections. Curcumin has major antimicrobial, antifungal, antimutagenic, and anticancer activities.
This systematic review study is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of curcumin on a dermatophyte
fungus, Trichophyton spp.

Methods:

In this study, antifungal effects of curcumin on the different strains of Trichophyton
were evaluated. For this reason, several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science,
Embase and Google Scholar were searched systematically in years from1995 to 2020. Only articles
with at least English abstracts were evaluated. The syntax was constructed with the combination of
some keywords along with specific tags used for each of the databases.

Results:

In this systematic review, studies showed that curcumin has a potent effect on the inhibition
of Trichophyton growth. Of the 2,500 studies in the search step, only 11articleswere eligible
for the survey, 6 of which were on T.rubrum, 3 on T. mentagrophytes, 1 on both T. mentagrophyte
and T. rubrum, and 1 on T. longifusus.

Conclusion:

Today, due to an increase in drug resistance to antifungal agents, plant extracts can be
a good alternative in controlling fungal diseases. Curcumin and its compounds are effective in inhibiting
or reducing Trichophyton infections in vitro and in vivo.
Применение метода матрицы рассеяния для расчета примесных состояний в полупроводниковых структурах
Authors: Морозов С.В. , Жолудев М.С.
Published: February 2021

We adapted S-matrix method for calculation of energy levels and carrier wavefunctions near impurity/defect states. We demonstrate the possibility of implying this method for multiband models on the example of Luttinger Hamiltonian with Coulomb acceptor in the spherical symmetry approximation. The obtained energies of discrete levels are in well agreement with results of calculations performed by other methods.
Полевой транзистор миллиметрового диапазона длин волн на основе псевдоморфной гетероструктуры с дополнительными потенциальными барьерами
Authors: Богданов С.А. , Бакаров А.К. , Журавлев К.С. , Лапин В.Г. , Лукашин В.М. , Пашковский А.Б. , Рогачёв И.А. , Терёшкин Е.В. , Щербаков С.В.
Published: February 2021

The results of millimeter – wave field – effect transistors with a 0.14 µm T – gate on pseudomorphic heterostructures Al0.3Ga0.7As – In0.22Ga0.78As – Al0.3Ga0.7As with additional potential barriers based on two-way donor-acceptor channel doping study are presented. At a frequency of 40 GHz in a wide range of gate voltages, a maximum stable gain of more than 15 dB is achieved. The maximum frequency of the device generation is about 250 GHz, the specific current density at the open channel is about 0.7 A / mm, the breakdown voltage of the gate-drain, depending on the version, is 22 -31 V.
Telomerase and Cancer: A Complex Relationship
Authors:   Telocyte LLC, Grand Rapids, MI, USA, Fossel Michael , Whittemore Kurt
Published: February 2021

Telomere elongation is protective of genomic stability, whereas telomere shortening increases genomic instability and thereby increases cancer risk. Long telomeres lower the risk of clinical cancer, while short telomeres are part of a causal cascade of intracellular events that result in oncogenesis and, ultimately, clinical cancer. Telomerase therapy is not only un-likely to result in an increased risk of cancer but is likely to lower the risk of cancer compared to age-matched patients not treated with telomerase therapy. Review of available data suggests that cancer should not be considered a significant risk to patients undergoing telomerase therapy.
Impact of Web-Based Self-Scheduling on Finalization of Well-Child Appointments in a Primary Care Setting: Retrospective Comparison Study
Authors: North Frederick , Nelson Elissa M , Majerus Rebecca J , Buss Rebecca J , Thompson Matthew C , Crum Brian A
Published: February 2021

Background

Web-booking of flights, hotels, and sports events has become commonplace in the travel and entertainment industry, but self-scheduling of health care appointments on the web is not yet widely used. An electronic health record that integrates appointment scheduling and patient web-based access to medical records creates an opportunity for patient self-scheduling. The Mayo Clinic developed and implemented a feature in its Patient Online Services (POS) web and mobile platform that allows software-managed self-scheduling of well-child visits.

Objective

This study aims to examine the use of a new self-scheduling appointment feature within POS in both web and mobile formats and determine the use characteristics, outcomes, and efficiency of self-scheduling compared with staff scheduling.

Methods

Within a primary care setting, we collected 13 months of all appointment activity for the well-child visit for children aged 2-12 years. As these specific appointment types are for minors, self-scheduling is performed by parents or other proxies. We compared the appointment actions of scheduling and cancelling for both self-scheduled and staff-scheduled appointments. The frequency in which patients were using self-scheduling outside of normal business hours was quantified, and we compared no-show outcomes of finalized appointments.

Results

Of the 1099 patients who performed any self-scheduling actions, 73.1% (803/1099) exclusively used self-scheduling and self-cancelling software. For those with access to self-scheduling (patients registered with the Mayo Clinic POS), 4.92% (1201/24,417) of all well-child appointment-scheduling actions were self-scheduled. Staff scheduling required more than a single appointment step (eg, schedule, cancel, reschedule) in 28.32% (3729/13,168) compared with only 6.93% (53/765) of self-scheduled appointments (P<.001). Self-scheduling appointment actions took place outside of regular business hours 29.5% (354/1201) of the time. No-shows accounted for 3.07% (28/912) of the self-scheduled finalized appointments compared with 4.12% (693/16,828) of staff-scheduled appointments, which is a nonsignificant difference (P=.12). Staff-scheduled finalized appointments (that allowed for scheduling appointments for more than 12 weeks in the future) revealed a potential demand of 11.15% (1876/16,828) for appointments with longer lead times.

Conclusions

Self-scheduling can generate a significant number of finalized appointments, decreasing the need for staff scheduler time. We found that 29.5% (354/1201) of the self-scheduling activity took place outside of the usual staff scheduler hours, adding convenience value to the scheduling process. For exclusive self-schedulers, 93.1% (712/765) finalized the appointment in a single step. The no-show rates were not adversely affected by the self-scheduling.
Digital Medicine Community Perspectives and Challenges: Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Bent Brinnae , Sim Ida , Dunn Jessilyn P
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

The field of digital medicine has seen rapid growth over the past decade. With this unfettered growth, challenges surrounding interoperability have emerged as a critical barrier to translating digital medicine into practice. In order to understand how to mitigate challenges in digital medicine research and practice, this community must understand the landscape of digital medicine professionals, which digital medicine tools are being used and how, and user perspectives on current challenges in the field of digital medicine.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study is to provide information to the digital medicine community that is working to establish frameworks and best practices for interoperability in digital medicine. We sought to learn about the background of digital medicine professionals and determine which sensors and file types are being used most commonly in digital medicine research. We also sought to understand perspectives on digital medicine interoperability.

METHODS

We used a web-based survey to query a total of 56 digital medicine professionals from May 1, 2020, to July 10, 2020, on their educational and work experience, the sensors, file types, and toolkits they use professionally, and their perspectives on interoperability in digital medicine.

RESULTS

We determined that the digital medicine community comes from diverse educational backgrounds and uses a variety of sensors and file types. Sensors measuring physical activity and the cardiovascular system are the most frequently used, and smartphones continue to be the dominant source of digital health information collection in the digital medicine community. We show that there is not a general consensus on file types in digital medicine, and data are currently handled in multiple ways. There is consensus that interoperability is a critical impediment in digital medicine, with 93% (52) of survey respondents in agreement. However, only 36% (20) of respondents currently use tools for interoperability in digital medicine. We identified three key interoperability needs to be met: integration with electronic health records, implementation of standard data schemas, and standard and verifiable methods for digital medicine research. We show that digital medicine professionals are eager to adopt new tools to solve interoperability problems, and we suggest tools to support digital medicine interoperability.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding the digital medicine community, the sensors and file types they use, and their perspectives on interoperability will enable the development and implementation of solutions that fill critical interoperability gaps in digital medicine. The challenges to interoperability outlined by this study will drive the next steps in creating an interoperable digital medicine community. Establishing best practices to address these challenges and employing platforms for digital medicine interoperability will be essential to furthering the field of digital medicine.
Predicting Public Uptake of Digital Contact Tracing During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results From a Nationwide Survey in Singapore (Preprint)
Authors: Saw Young Ern , Tan Edina Yi-Qin , Liu Jessica Shijia , Liu Jean CJ
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, new digital solutions have been developed for infection control. In particular, contact tracing mobile apps provide a means for governments to manage both health and economic concerns. However, public reception of these apps is paramount to their success, and global uptake rates have been low.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we sought to identify the characteristics of individuals or factors potentially associated with voluntary downloads of a contact tracing mobile app in Singapore.

METHODS

A cohort of 505 adults from the general community completed an online survey. As the primary outcome measure, participants were asked to indicate whether they had downloaded the contact tracing app TraceTogether introduced at the national level. The following were assessed as predictor variables: (1) participant demographics, (2) behavioral modifications on account of the pandemic, and (3) pandemic severity (the number of cases and lockdown status).

RESULTS

Within our data set, the strongest predictor of the uptake of TraceTogether was the extent to which individuals had already adjusted their lifestyles because of the pandemic (z=13.56; P<.001). Network analyses revealed that uptake was most related to the following: using hand sanitizers, avoiding public transport, and preferring outdoor over indoor venues during the pandemic. However, demographic and situational characteristics were not significantly associated with app downloads.

CONCLUSIONS

Efforts to introduce contact tracing apps could capitalize on pandemic-related behavioral adjustments among individuals. Given that a large number of individuals is required to download contact tracing apps for contact tracing to be effective, further studies are required to understand how citizens respond to contact tracing apps.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04468581, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04468581
Peer Review of “Evaluating Population Density as a Parameter for Optimizing COVID-19 Testing: Statistical Analysis” (Preprint)
Authors: Anonymous Reviewer BJ
Published: February 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report for MS#22195.
Correction: A Novel mHealth Approach for a Patient-Centered Medication and Health Management System in Taiwan: Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hsieh Wen-Ting , Su Yung-Cheng , Han Hsin-Lien , Huang Ming-Yuan
Published: February 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

REMOVE
Internet-Based Psychotherapy Intervention for Depression Among Older Adults Receiving Home Care: Qualitative Study of Participants’ Experiences (Preprint)
Authors: Xiang Xiaoling , Kayser Jay , Sun Yihang , Himle Joseph
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Depression is common among homebound older adults. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) is a promising but understudied approach for treating depression among older adults with disabilities.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to understand the experiences of homebound older adults who participated in a pilot feasibility trial of an iCBT for depression.

METHODS

The participants included 21 homebound older adults who participated in a generic iCBT program that was not specifically designed for older adults and 8 home care workers who assisted in the iCBT program. Informants completed semistructured individual interviews, which were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using methods informed by grounded theory. A hierarchical code structure of themes and subthemes was developed after an iterative process of constant comparisons and questionings of the initial codes. The data analysis was conducted by using dedoose, a web app for mixed methods research.

RESULTS

Three themes and various subthemes emerged related to participants’ experience of the iCBT intervention, as follows: intervention impact, which involved subthemes related to participants’ perceived impact of the intervention; challenges and difficulties, which involved subthemes on the challenges and difficulties that participants experienced in the intervention; and facilitators, which involved subthemes on the factors that facilitated intervention use and engagement.

CONCLUSIONS

iCBT is a promising intervention for homebound older adults experiencing depression. Home care workers reported improved relationships with their clients and that the program did not add a burden to their duties. Future programs should involve accessible technical features and age-adapted content to improve user experience, uptake, and adherence.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04267289; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04267289
Pelatihan Penggunaan Platform Aplikasi E-learning Schoology Pada Guru SMA
Authors: Salim Salim , Jazuli La Ode Ahmad , Nurhayati Nurhayati , Saputra Hendra Nelva
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this devotion is to increase knowledge and insight into the innovation of e-learning based learning for teachers of SMA Negeri 4 Kendari can be done through training activities in the application of Schoology. This activity was attended by 15 people in the teachers of SMA Negeri 4 Kendari with the implementation method of devotion using lecture methods, questions and answers, and simulations. The results of this dedication show that (1) the trainees have a knowledge of the use of e-learning application Platform Schoology, (2) The trainees already have a learning class using the platform E-Learning Application Schoology, and (3) The trainees have been knowledgeable in creating and developing the content of e-learning Schoology application