bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Analysis of The Ti6Al4V Behavior Based on the Definition of a New Phenomenological Model
Authors: YAICH Mariem , Ayed Yessine , Germain Guenael , Bouaziz Zoubeir
Published: May 2021

The finite element modeling is significantly depended on the accurate prediction of the thermomechanical material behavior. In order to increase the accuracy of numerical simulations, a new phenomenological model is proposed in this study. Its mathematical formulation allows accurate predictions of the Ti6Al4V sensitivity to the strain rate and the temperature, while maintaining a low identification cost of its constitutive coefficients. Its implementation in the Abaqus® software is carried out based on the developed VUMAT. The subroutine robustness is investigated in the case of the modeling of uniaxial tensile and impact tests. A 3D numerical analysis of the Ti6Al4V machining is set up based on the definition of the rheological Johnson-Cook model and the proposed one. Experimental orthogonal machining tests are also established for several cutting conditions. An important sensitivity of the chip serration, segments geometry and the cutting forces to the feed rate is pointed out. Comparisons of the numerical results obtained with both models are carried out. Interesting agreements with the experimental results are guaranteed with the new phenomenological model, which is not the case of the Johnson-Cook empirical law. In addition, intuitive insights about the effect of the cutting conditions on the material flow towards the workpiece edges and the side burr geometry are provided with the 3D numerical modeling. The results presented in this study point out the inability of the 2D numerical simulations to accurately predict the phenomena induced during the machining process, even in the case of an orthogonal machining.
Analysis of sputum microbial diversity in patients with different histological types of lung cancer
Authors: Ran Zhuonan , Liu Jiexing , Xin Caiyan , Wang Fen , Zeng Shan , Xiao Hua , Shen Xiang , Xiong Bin , Song Zhangyong
Published: May 2021

Background: The respiratory microbiome of lung cancer patients is different from healthy people. Finding the characteristics of microorganisms is conducive to exploring new directions for the assist in distinguishing different histological types of lung cancer. Methods: 16S rRNA sequencing and internal transcribed spacer sequencing were performed respectively on sputum samples from 8 adenocarcinomas, 10 squamous cell carcinomas, 5 small cell lung cancers, and 3 combined-small cell lung cancer patients. And then, bioinformatics analysis of their bacterial microbiome and fungal mycobiome were conducted. And the correlation between respiratory microorganisms and clinical characteristics was further analyzed.Results: The difference in species diversity of the respiratory tract microorganisms of different histological types of lung cancer is statistically significant. Moreover, smoking can increase the diversity of respiratory bacteria. Nevertheless, quitting smoking is beneficial to the transformation of the respiratory tract flora to a non-smoking state. Spearman’s correlation further showed that Fusarium was positively related to Streptococcus, Neisseria, Prevotella-7, and Veillonella, and Penicillium was positively related to Neisseria. Conclusions: Based on the differences of microorganisms among different histological types of lung cancer, deep composition characterization of lung cancer-related microorganisms and their clinical characteristics is an important advancement in understanding the role of microorganisms in lung cancer development.
Type I IFNs promote cancer cell stemness by triggering the epigenetic regulator KDM1B
Authors: Sistigu Antonella , Musella Martina , Galassi Claudia , Guarracino Andrea , Manic Gwenola , Manduca Nicoletta , Pietrosanto Marco , Helmer-Citterich Manuela , Pallocca Matteo , Fanciulli Maurizio , Benedetto Anna Di , Ercolani Cristiana , Pescarmona Edoardo , Pizzuti Laura , Sperati Francesca , Signore Michele , Vitale Sara , Schiavoni Giovanna , Mattei Fabrizio , De Ninno Adele , Businaro Luca , Lucarini Valeria , Bracci Laura , Aricò Eleonora , Ziccheddu Giovanna , Facchiano Francesco , Rossi Stefania , Sanchez Massimo , Boe Alessandra , Biffoni Mauro , De Maria Ruggero , Vitale Ilio
Published: May 2021

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are immature, immortal cells within tumors, adept at resisting therapeutic pressure and responsible for local and distant disease recurrence. Non-genetic mechanisms of acquired resistance are increasingly being described, however molecular insights into this evolutionary process still lack. Here, we showed that Type I interferons (IFNs-I) act as molecular hubs of resistance during immunogenic chemotherapy, as they trigger the epigenetic regulator KDM1B, responsible for an adaptive, yet reversible, transcriptional rewiring of cancer cells towards stemness and immune escape. Accordingly, KDM1B pharmacological inhibition antagonizes the appearance of IFN-I-adapted CSCs, both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, IFN-I-adapted CSCs are heterogeneous in terms of multidrug resistance, plasticity, invasiveness and immunogenicity. Moreover, in breast cancer patients receiving anthracycline-based chemotherapy, IFN-I and KDM1B signatures positively correlate with CSC and immune evasion markers. Our study identifies IFN-I→KDM1B axis as a potent engine of cancer cell reprogramming and recommends KDM1B targeting an attractive adjunctive to immunogenic drugs to prevent CSC expansion and increase the long-term benefit of therapy.
Geochemical characterization of groundwater and water quality assessment for sustainable management of hard rock aquifer in South India
Authors: Madasamy Senthilkumar , Rajendiran Thilagavathi , Nagappan Ganesh , Sabarathinam Chidambaram , Panda Banajarani , Elumalai Vetrimurugan , Ghai Meenu , Singh Dhiraj kr.
Published: May 2021

Hydrogeochemical investigation was carried out in groundwater of Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu, India. Geologically the study area is occupied with Archaean, Charnockite, Unclassified Genesis and Pleistocene Laterite formations. A total of 72 groundwater samples were collected spatially during North East Monsoon (NEM) in 2019 based upon the coverage of geological formations. The collected samples were studied for different physio-chemical parameters like pH, TDS and EC, major cations (Ca, Mg, Na, K) and major anions (Cl, HCO3, SO4, PO4). EC and TDS ranges from 273 to 5869 mg/L and 194 to 4159 mg/L. The ionic dominance of the hydrochemical parameters follows in the order of Na > Ca > Mg > K and Cl > HCO3 > SO3 > PO4. The data represents two major hydrogeochemical facies of Ca-HCO3 and mixed Ca-Mg-Cl in the study region. The USSL classifications of samples signifies low alkali hazard and high to very high salinity hazard. The higher concentration of TDS and EC in the samples reflects the unsuitability of groundwater. According to the WHO drinking water quality standards and the value of SAR, RSC, Na% reflects the groundwater in the study region is more suitable for irrigation than drinking purpose. The statistical method also adopted to understand the major factors influencing the variation in hydrochemistry of the region. Weathering, leaching of salts and anthropogenic activities were identified to be the key governing factor in the varied groundwater chemistry of this region.
Iraqi bentonite as a natural pozzolan for sustainable concrete
Authors: Al-Hammood Amer Abbas , Frayyeh Qais J. , Abbas Waleed A.
Published: May 2021

Iraqi high-calcium bentonite was used for the first time to prepare natural pozzolan. Twenty-four calcination programs were studied. The optimum calcination program is 800°C for 90min. The calcined bentonite meets the requirements of the Iraqi specification of pozzolanic materials. The incorporation of calcined bentonite as a part of cementitious binder extends both initial and final setting time in proportion to the percentage of calcined bentonite. In concrete, the calcined bentonite reduces workability and early strength in proportion to the percentage of Portland cement replacement, while promotes the later strength at 5–15% replacement. The retardation effect of calcined bentonite makes it suitable for concrete production in hot climate territories and for mass concrete. Moreover, the relatively low embodied energy and low carbon dioxide emission of calcined bentonite enhance the sustainability of concrete.
Rechallenge with Previously Administered Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in EGFR-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Leptomeningeal Metastasis
Authors: Miyawaki Taichi , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Yabe Michitoshi , Kodama Hiroaki , Nishioka Naoya , Miyawaki Eriko , Mamesaya Nobuaki , Kobayashi Haruki , Omori Shota , Wakuda Kazushige , Ono Akira , Deguchi Shoichi , Mitsuya Koichi , Naito Tateaki , Murakami Haruyasu , Mori Keita , Harada Hideyuki , Hayashi Nakamasa , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: May 2021

Objectives: In EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, approximately 80–90% of leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) develops after failed initial epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) treatment. However, the efficacy of rechallenging previously administered EGFR-TKIs in patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC and LM that develops after EGFR-TKI treatment failure remains unknown.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC and LM from November 2011 to August 2019. Patients were classified into two groups according to LM treatment type: switched to previously unadministered EGFR-TKIs (Switch-TKI) and rechallenge with previously administered EGFR-TKIs (Rechallenge-TKI).Results: In total, 50 patients treated with EGFR-TKI after LM diagnosis were included; 35 were treated with Switch-TKI, and 15 with Rechallenge-TKI. The median overall survival (OS) from the time of LM diagnosis was 6.2 months in all study patients. According to the treatment type, the median OS from the time of LM diagnosis was 6.9 months in Switch-TKI patients and 4.9 months in Rechallenge-TKI patients. There was no significant difference in the OS between the Switch-TKI and Rechallenge-TKI groups (P = 0.864). Thirty-five patients were treated with erlotinib and 15 with osimertinib; Regardless of the type for EGFR-TKI, there was no significant difference in OS between patients treated with Switch-TKI and those treated with Rechallenge-TKI. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that rechallenge of previously administered EGFR-TKIs may be a therapeutic option for LM development after EGFR-TKI treatment failure in patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC, not only switching to previously unadministered EGFR-TKIs.
Research on Laser Ultrasonic Testing of 316l Stainless Steel Mean Grain Size Based on Wavelet Threshold Denoising
Authors: Yuan Shu-Xian , Wu Jin-Feng , Chen Huai-Dong , Liu Shu-Hong , Zhu Zhen-Ge , Yu Hui-Hui , Yin Anmin
Published: May 2021

This paper investigated a mean grain size characterization method base on laser ultrasonic. The 316L stainless steel samples with different mean grain size were conducted with different heat treatments and times, and each sample was observed by SEM and tested by laser ultrasonic. Due to the state of the sample surface, complexity of equipment and environment, the ultrasonic signal contain a lot of noise. Proposes a method to calculate the ultrasonic attenuation coefficient based on the signal after wavelet threshold denoising. Using db3 as the wavelet basis function, the signal is decomposed and denoised 5 times and then recombined. The attenuation coefficients of the amplitudes in the time domain and frequency domain of the original signal and the denoised signal are calculated. The results show that wavelet threshold denoising can improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the signal and the calculation accuracy of the average grain size.
Rice Recycling: A Simple Strategy to Improve Conidia Production in Solid-State Cultures
Authors: Cando-Narvaez Areli , Méndez-Hernández Jazmín Edith , Loera Octavio
Published: May 2021

The aim of this work was to propose a strategy to revalorize the residual rice remaining at the end of a conventional conidia production process in solid-state culture. The proposal involved the reuse of rice in successive cycles of conidia production. As a result, the reuse of rice in successive cycles significantly increased the production and productivity parameters of the fungal strains Trichoderma asperellum Th-Th4 (3) and Metarhizium robertsii Xoch-8.1. Conidia production in T. asperellum Th-Th4 (3) increased from 1.0×109 to 4.9×109 con/gds, while in M. robertsii Xoch-8.1, this parameter increased form 5.7×108 to 3.8×109 con/gds. In addition, this strategy did not affect the viability of the conidia produced using recycled rice relative to the conidia produced using fresh substrate (unrecycled rice). The proposed recycling approach was simple, and completely free of extra -drying, -sterilization, and -reinoculation steps. The technique required minimal operational intervention and thus can be easily adopted by small bio-factories or self-supply units.
Staphylococcal Superantigen-Like Protein 10 (SSL10) induces necroptosis through TNFR1 activation of RIPK3-dependent signal pathways
Authors: Jia Nan , Li Guo , Chen Wanbiao , Wang Chengliang , Chen Ling , Ma Xiaoling , Zhang Xuan , Tao Yue , Zang Jianye , Mo Xi , Hu Jinfeng
Published: May 2021

Staphylococcal aureus (S. aureus) infection can lead to a wide range of diseases such as sepsis and pneumonia. Staphylococcal superantigen like (SSL) proteins, specifically expressed by S. aureus, are shown to be involved in immune evasion during S. aureus infection. Here, we show that SSL10, an SSL family protein, exhibits potent cytotoxicity against human cells (HEK 293T and HUVEC) by inducing necroptosis upon binding to its receptor TNFR1 on the cell membrane. After binding, two distinct signaling pathways are activated downstream of TNFR1 in a RIPK3-dependent manner, i.e., the RIPK1-RIPK3-MLKL and RIPK3-CaMKII-mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) pathways. We determined the crystal structure of SSL10 at 1.9 Å resolution and, in conjunction with cytotoxicity analysis of chimeric mutant variants, identified a surface region formed by residues in the N- and C-termini that can potentially serve as the TNFR1 binding site. Knockout of ssl10 in S. aureus profoundly reduced cytotoxicity of culture supernatants, indicating that SSL10 is involved in extracellular cytotoxicity during infection. This study thus provides the first description of cytotoxicity through induction of necroptosis by an SSL protein, and a potential target for clinical treatment of S. aureus-associated diseases.
Aprepitant Inhibits JNK and p38/MAPK to Attenuate Inflammation in Microglia and Suppresses Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhou Wei , Xu Xiuqi , Sang Jiugao , Ge Xianxiu , Wang Fei , Zhang Guangqin , Miao Lin , Deng Xue-Ting
Published: May 2021

Background: Substance P (SP) contributes to the pathogenesis of pain by acting on neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK-1R), specialized sensory neurons that detect noxious stimuli. Aprepitant, an antagonist of NK-1R widely used to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. In this study, we assessed aprepitant’s analgesic effect on inflammatory pain in mice and its mechanism of action in spinal cord.Methods: The excitability of DRG neurons treatment with aprepitant was measured using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. The inflammatory pain model was induced in adult ICR mice by a single dose intraplantar injection of formalin and carrageenan. The mice were treated with aprepitant, and the behavioral tests were measured after the intraperitoneal injection of aprepitant. The morphological changes on inflamed paw tissues were determined by using hematoxylin eosin staining. The mRNA expressions of MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and NF-κBp65 were measured by real-time quantitative PCR analysis. Changes in the protein expression levels were assayed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to assay the cell signaling.Results: Aprepitant treatment showed a significantly higher AP threshold in vitro. In vivo, the aprepitant showed a significant anti-inflammatory and analgesia effect in the mice with inflammatory pain. After the administration of aprepitant, the paw tissues inflammatory damage was significantly relived. The mRNA levels of MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and NF-κBp65 were down-regulate following aprepitant treatment. Meanwhile, aprepitant significantly suppressed over-expression of proinflammatory cytokines, as well as the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 MAPK in the spinal cord.Conclusions: The present study suggests that the extract of aprepitant attenuates inflammatory pain in mice via suppressing the phosphorylation of JNK and p38, and inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.
18 F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Predicts the Function of Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Early Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Kimura Yuri , Sasada Shinsuke , Emi Akiko , Masumoto Norio , Kadoya Takayuki , Arihiro Koji , Okada Morihito
Published: May 2021

BackgroundThe maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) is presumed to visualize not only tumor cells but also active immune cells in the tumor microenvironment based on their glycolysis activity. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between SUVmax on FDG PET/CT and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) subsets.MethodsFifty-four patients with invasive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) underwent FDG PET/CT before neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and pre-treatment biopsy specimens were pathologically evaluated. The expression status of CD8, forkhead box P3 (FOXP3), programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), and programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) were assessed by immunohistochemistry. The relationship between TIL subsets and SUVmax or pathological complete response (pCR) was investigated.ResultsTILs, CD8, FOXP3, PD-1, and PD-L1 were high in 15 (27.8%), 15 (27.8%), 39 (72.2%), 18 (33.3%), and 26 (48.2%) patients, respectively. SUVmax was significantly correlated with tumor size, Ki-67 labeling index, and CD8/FOXP3 ratio (P = 0.003, P = 0.043, and P = 0.017, respectively). In multiple linear regression analysis, tumor size and CD8/FOXP3 ratio predicted SUVmax (P < 0.001 and P = 0.045, respectively). Seventeen patients (31.5%) achieved a pCR. TILs, CD8/FOXP3 ratio, PD-1, and PD-L1 were significantly correlated with the pCR rate. In multivariate analysis, the CD8/FOXP3 ratio was the only independent predictive factor for pCR (P = 0.010).ConclusionSUVmax on FDG PET/CT was related to tumor biological factors and the immune microenvironment after adjusting for confounding factors in TNBC. FDG uptake was influenced by the CD8/FOXP3 ratio, which predicts pCR after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
An Investigation Into the Presentation of Social Identity in Summit Series With a Discourse Analysis Perspective
Authors: Esmaeeli Fatemeh , Razmjoo S.A. , Valizadeh Mohammadreza
Published: May 2021

This study was an attempt to determine how social identity is represented in terms of social actors, social actions, and discourse practices. Following a discourse analysis perspective, Summit Series were explored in terms of five variables, namely, social actor representation, social action representation, modality, intertextuality, and idiomatic/metaphoric expressions. After enumerating and tabulating different variables and categories, the data were analyzed. The study revealed the passivation and subjection social actors as being dominant for females and the beneficialization social actors for males. Furthermore, the dominant social actions were found to be cognitive and affective reaction rather than material or semiotic actions. Hence, it was found that the examined textbook is mixed-genre with its focus on the culture of the western countries in which the ethnic groups were either marginalized or manifested as being weird. Likewise, it was revealed that there is more involvement in serious matters for men and trivial, passionate and entertaining matters for females. In fact, the textbook is following the dominant trend in which identity is represented elaborately in a specific way by manipulating various semiotic variables among which social actors, social actions, modality, intertextuality, metaphoric expressions in a particular sociocultural setting and mixed-genre presentation are worth emphasizing.
Optimizing Auditory Input for Foreign Language Learners Through A Verbotonal-Based Dichotic Listening Approach
Authors: Cai Xirui , Lian Andrew , Puakpong Nattaya , Shi Yaoping , Chen Haoqiang , Zeng Yizhen , Ou Jibing , Zheng Wei , Mo Yin
Published: May 2021

The quality of the physical language signals to which learners are exposed and which result in neurobiological activity leading to perception should be prioritized as it constitutes a variable that is rarely, if ever, considered in language learning. The current study identifies an optimal audio language input signal for Chinese EFL/ESL learners generated by modifying the physical features of language-bearing audio signals. This is achieved by applying the principles of verbotonalism in a dichotic listening context. Low-pass filtered (320 Hz cut-off) and unfiltered speech signals in four different configurations were selectively directed to each hemisphere of the brain through the contralateral ear. The four types of auditory stimuli were: low-pass filtered stimuli in both ears (FL-FR), filtered stimuli in the left ear and unfiltered stimuli in the right ear (FL-R), unfiltered stimuli in the left ear and filtered in the right ear (L-FR), and unfiltered stimuli in both ears (NL-NR). Temporal and spatial neural signatures for the processing of the signals were detected in a combined Event-Related Potential (ERP) and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) experiment. Results showed that the FL-R configuration provided optimal auditory language input by actively exploiting left-hemispheric dominance for language processing and right-hemispheric dominance for melodic processing, i.e., each hemisphere was fed the signals that it should be best equipped to process and it actually did so effectively. In addition, the L-FR configuration was identified as entirely non-optimal for language learners. Other outcomes included significant load reduction through exposure to FL-FR signals as well as the confirmation that non-language signals were recognized by the brain and did not trigger any language processing. These various outcomes will necessarily entail further research.
Effects of Enriched Environment on Microglia and Functional White Matter Recovery in Rats with Post stroke Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Guo Yi-Sha , Yuan Mei , Han Yu , Shen Xin-Ya , Gao Zhen-Kun , Bi Xia
Published: May 2021

Background: White matter damage is an important contributor to cognitive impairment after stroke. This study was designed to explore the beneficial effects of enriched environment (EE) on white matter recovery and cognitive dysfunction after stroke, and further explore the potential mechanism of EE on white matter recovery from the perspective of microglia and microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. Methods: Male SD rats underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) or sham surgery. During the MCAO operation, a laser Doppler blood flow meter was used to monitor the blood flow to ensure the success of the model. At 72 hours after the operation, 3 rats were selected for TTC staining to identify the infarct size. One week after surgery, the rats were randomly assigned into four different groups—MCAO+standard environment (SE), MCAO+enriched environment(EE), Sham+SE and Sham+EE for 4 weeks. At four weeks after MCAO surgery, neurological function deficiency condition and cognitive function were assessed using Longa score and Morris Water Maze prior to euthanasia. The loss or regeneration of myelin was stained with LFB, the expression of myelin regeneration-related protein and microglia protein was quantified by western blot and immunofluorescence, and the level of inflammatory factors was measured by ELISA.Results: EE treatment remarkably decreased the neurological deficit score, ameliorated thecognitive functional deficit in MCAO rats. Furthermore, EE alleviated white matter lesions and demyelination, increased myelin basic protein expression and decreased the number of activated microglia in the hippocampus of MCAO rats. In addition, ELISA analysis indicated that EE decreased the level of IL-1β, IL-6, which further suggests that EE may reduce the level of pro-inflammatory factors by affecting the expression of microglia, provide a benefit physiological environment for myelin recovery, and improve post stroke cognitive impairment.Conclusions: Our results suggest that exposure to EE substantially reduced microglia damage/activation , decreased the level of pro-inflammatory cytokins induced by microglia, protected and promote white matter recovery to improve cognitive function in injured area after stroke. Our findings also indicate exposure to EE is beneficial for patients with white matter impairment characterised by white matter disease-related inflammation.
Expression Profiling of Growth Specific Genes Associated Silk Productivity in Bombyx Mori
Authors: K Ashok Kumar , Dhanaraj Premnath , Muthiah Indiraleka , Gomez Anbu M , Lakkakula Satish
Published: May 2021

Silkworm Bombyx mori exhibits wide variability and development attributes. The genetics of yield expression, shown to be of polygenic nature, is poorly studied in silkworm, to identify markers associated with 5 selected yield traits, with two RFLP-derived sequence –tagged site (STS) primers on the genomic DNA of silkworm germplasm stocks of different origin and diverse yield potential. The analysis led to the identification of two markers showing significant association with the yield traits. The markers could classify the stocks according to yield potential, irrespective of their origin. The relevance of the STS primers is discussed in the context of Appling multiple regression models for identifying markers associated with yield expression and stability for molecular breeding work in B. mori for yield improvement.
Social Representations of Breastfeeding in Health Sciences Students: A First Step to Strengthening their Training
Authors: Grover-Baltazar Gabriela Alejandra , Sandoval-Rodríguez Ana , Macedo-Ojeda Gabriela , Chavira-Trujillo Gabriel , Corona-Ortíz Marco Julián , De Alba Martha , Vizmanos Barbara
Published: May 2021

BackgroundBreastfeeding is a complex phenomenon involving biological, affective, and socio-cultural aspects. Its definition is built by a diversity of beliefs, attitudes, traditions, and myths. Being aware of the connection between the biological and socio-cultural concepts into the Social Representations of breastfeeding in health sciences, will allow us to have a better comprehension of their attitudes/behavior towards breastfeeding. Therefore, the objective of this study is to describe the Social Representations on breastfeeding among Mexican health sciences students.MethodsThis study was carried out based on the structuralist approach of the Social Representations Theory. Data collection was done with free-listing questionnaires with a “breastfeeding” as inducer word among nutrition, medical, and nursing undergraduate students (n=124). The analyses used were: similitude of words and of the meanings of words, prototypical and categorical analysis.ResultsThe findings suggest that the structure of the social representation is composed of breastfeeding components (baby, mother and milk), affective (attachment, love and link), biological (nutrition, breasts and health), and socio-cultural elements (taboo, responsibility and economic). Within the nucleus, only instrumental elements are found, whereas in the peripheries, biological, affective, and socio-cultural elements are observed.ConclusionsThe structure of the social representations of breastfeeding in Mexican undergraduate students in health sciences focuses on instrumental aspects, leaving the background elements with more scientific meanings typical of their training. These results, replicated in different contexts, will allow the creation of educational strategies adapted to strengthen the breastfeeding training of health students to improve breastfeeding promotion in the society.
High-Risk Human Papillomaviruses and Epstein-Barr Virus In Breast Cancer In Lebanese Women and Their Association with Tumor Grade: A Molecular and Tissue Microarray Study
Authors: Nagi Karim , Gupta Ishita , Jurdi Nawaf , Jabeen Ayesha , Yasmeen Amber , Batist Gerald , Vranic Semir , Moustafa Ala-Eddin Al
Published: May 2021

Background: High-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are present and can cooperate with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) to initiate and/or enhance the progression of several types of human carcinomas including cervical as well as head and neck; in parallel, it has been recently pointed out that these oncoviruses can be detected in human breast cancers. Thus, we herein explored the presence/co-presence of high-risk HPVs and EBV in breast cancer in Lebanese women.Methods: A cohort of 102 breast cancer samples and 14 normal breast tissues were assessed for the presence of HPVs and EBV. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry analysis in addition to tissue microarray platform were used in this study. Results: We found the presence of HPV in 66/102 (65%) of our samples, while EBV is present in 41/102 (40%) of the cohort. Additionally, our data showed that high-risk HPV types (52, 35, 58, 45, 16 and 51) are the most frequent in breast cancer in Lebanese women. Meanwhile, we report that high-risk HPVs and EBV are co-present in 30/102 (29%) of the samples; more significantly, our results indicate that their co-presence is associated with tumor grade (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Our data revealed that HPVs and EBV are present/co-present in human breast cancer where they can play an important role in its development and/or progression; thus, we believe that further investigations are essential to confirm and elucidate the presence/co-presence of these oncoviruses and the underlying mechanisms of their interaction in breast carcinogenesis.
Lung Shunt Dose With A Planar Versus Spect-CT Images In Planification Of HCC Treatment
Authors: Barquero Raquel , Velasco Javier , Hurtado Antonio , Pérez Berta , Ruano Ricardo
Published: May 2021

PURPOSE: The purpose is to investigate the possibility of evaluate the lung shunt fraction LSF with SPECT image in planning with Tc-99m of hepatic HCC treatments with Y-90 microspheres, comparing the results with those obtained with planar images. METHODS: Firstly, for a patient with a predictably high shunt, the 4 planar images are used as in the classic method to determine PLANAR LSF. Second, to determine the SPECT LSF, the SPECT images acquired for planning the therapeutic activity, and therefore centered in the hepatic region, are used. These images does not cover the entire lung but only some slices. Advantage is taken of the fact that the distribution of 99MTc in healthy lung tissue is homogeneous. Then the activity concentration in the lung can be known and the SPECT LSF can be calculated. RESULTS: The values ​​obtained for PLANAR LSF and SPECT LSF are 11% and 28%, respectively. The results for the lung dose Dlung are of 24.50 Gy and 7.92 Gy, respectively. CONCLUSION: In this study, LSF and lung absorbed dose Dlung based in planar static and SPECT/CT images acquired with 99MTc, have been described and compared. The results show a dependence between the absorbed dose in the lung with the LSF according to a rational function f = LSF/(1-LSF). The values of LSF and Dlung obtained with planar method are 2.51 and 3.09 higher than the values obtained with SPECT method, respectively. This is attributed to the differences in the quantification method, especially to the absence of attenuation correction in the planar method. In the LSF values, the difference is direct, but in the case of the Dlung the difference is greater due to covariant dependence of dose with activity and LSF. Practically for the future, the SPECT-CT method is better and will be applied in new patients.
Foot fracture may predict poor patient reported functional outcomes in lower extremity reconstruction of the traumatically injured lower extremity: A case-control study.
Authors: Shauly Orr , Burtt Karen , Gould Daniel , Howell Anna , Badash Ido , Rounds Alexis , Leland Hyuma , Patel Ketan , Carey Joseph
Published: May 2021

Background A paucity of evidence currently exists regarding factors affecting the success of lower extremity reconstruction at restoring a functional limb. We aim to determine the effect of foot fracture on outcome measures of ambulatory success after lower extremity salvage in a trauma population.Methods A retrospective chart review was performed on 63 patients presenting to an urban level 1 trauma center between 01/2007 and 01/2015 who received soft tissue coverage of a lower extremity traumatic wound. Demographics, injury, and perioperative data were recorded. Patients were administered the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) questionnaire via phone. The LEFS is out of 80 possible points. Ambulatory success is measured on a scale of 0 to 4 across 20 activities, with 0 indicating “extreme difficulty or inability to perform activity”, and 4 indicating “no difficulty”. Functional outcomes were compared using a two-tailed two-sample unequal variances t-test.Results This study represents data on the 63 unique patients treated with vascularized flaps whom we attempted to contact. A total of 21 patients completed the LEFS questionnaire, representing an overall response rate of 33%. Responders to the surveys included 4 (19%) patients with foot fractures and 17 (81%) without foot fractures. Average total LEFS scores were significantly lower in patients with foot fractures (23.8 ± 5.9) than in patients without (36.2 ± 19.2) foot fractures (p = 0.04). With respect to the SF36 functional scale, patients with foot fractures paradoxically reported significantly higher measures of physical functioning (81 ± 11) in comparison to those without a foot fracture (59 ± 25) at a p-value of 0.02, and role limitation due to physical health (98 ± 3) versus those with no foot fracture (74 ± 37) at a p-value of 0.02.Conclusion Sustaining a foot fracture during severe traumatic injury that necessitates lower extremity reconstruction may result in significantly decreased ambulatory success scores. Fractures of the foot may predict poor patient reported functional outcomes following lower extremity reconstruction and should be considered as a factor in the pre-operative risk and benefit assessment when deciding whether to attempt reconstruction of the mangled limb.
Prevalence of Rare F5 Variants in General Population From Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Ašić Adna , Salazar Ramona , Storm Niels , Doğan Serkan , Höppner Wolfgang , Marjanović Damir , Primorac Dragan
Published: May 2021

Background: Human gene F5, encoding coagulation factor V, was previously reported to be highly polymorphic. Apart from FV Leiden, an array of other rare variants has been detected in clinical practice and associated with thrombotic events, especially in cases when patient’s phenotype and FV Leiden genotype were not in agreement.Methods and Results: In this study, the prevalence of 17 rare F5 variants has been studied on a sample of 130 healthy adult individuals from the general Bosnian-Herzegovinian population. DNA was isolated from buccal swab samples, while genotyping was performed using MALDI-TOF MS method. The results have shown that Asp2194Gly and Met2120Thr are polymorphic in the study population with minor allele frequencies of 0.077 and 0.073, respectively. Additionally, these two variants were found to be mutually exclusive with FV Leiden and none of them was positively associated with participants’ family history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases.Conclusions: While the obtained results are in agreement with previously reported data for the general Caucasian populations, it is worth noting that only two rare F5 variants were detected in the study population, albeit at considerable frequencies. Still, scientific information on rare F5 variants is rather scarce and further studies aiming to assess functional importance of these variants, as well as their role as prothrombotic factors are necessary.
Recurrent Home Flooding in Detroit, MI 2012-2020: Results of a Household Survey
Authors: LARSON PETER S , Gronlund Carina J , Thompson Lyke , Sampson Natalie , Washington Ramona , Thorsby Jamie Steis , Lyon Natalie , Miller Carol
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Household flooding has wide ranging social, economic and public health impacts particularly for people in resource poor communities. The determinants and outcomes of recurrent home flooding in urban contexts, however, are not well understood. A household survey was used to assess neighborhood and household level determinants of recurrent home flooding in Detroit, MI.Methods: Survey activities covered the years of 2012 and 2020. Researchers collected information on past flooding, housing conditions, flooding outcomes and public health outcomes. Using the locations of homes and flooding occurrences, a “hot spot” analysis was performed to find areas of extreme risk within the City of Detroit. Survey data were linked to environment and neighborhood data and associations were tested using regression methods.Results: 5,956 households participated in the survey and flooding information was available for 4,677 of them. Among these, 2,546 (42.75%) reported having experienced home flooding as a result of rainfall. Rental occupied units were more likely to report flooding than owner occupied homes (OR 1.71 [95% CI 1.5, 1.94]). Housing conditions such as poor roof quality and cracks in basement walls influenced home flooding risk. Increased percentage of rental units in the vicinity of the home increased flooding risk. When controlling for household and neighborhood factors, primarily African American communities were found to be at high risk for home flooding. Flooding and conditions associated with home flooding were associated with adult and child asthma.Conclusions: Recurrent home flooding is far more prevalent than previously thought and associated with neighborhood and household factors, in addition to disproportionately impacting African American residents. Programs that support recovery and which focus on home improvement to prevent flooding, particularly by landlords, might benefit the public health. These results draw awareness and urgency to problems of urban flooding and public health in other areas of the country confronting the compounding challenges of aging infrastructure, disinvestment and climate change.
Identifying Australian Policy Makers’ Perceptions of eHealth Interventions
Authors: Subahe Alaa Hussain , Baker Philip , Carroll Julie-Ann
Published: May 2021

Background: The increasing volume of research on electronic health (eHealth) smoking cessation interventions presents a challenge for policymakers and service providers when they try to decide which strategies to select for health promotion programs. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of Australian policymakers and service providers regarding the effectiveness and quality of eHealth and mHealth interventions for smoking cessation against the evidence in a recent systematic review. Methods: This cross-sectional study invited 38 Australian public health policymakers and service providers in smoking cessation to participate in an online survey assessing their knowledge of the current available evidence-base. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the results of the survey against the published review. Results: Eighteen participants completed the survey. Comparison identified that the majority of participants failed to correctly identify the effects and the quality of the evidence of popular smoking cessation interventions. They lacked knowledge of the usefulness and quality of some eHealth and mHealth interventions for smoking cessation. Conclusions: The finding of this study indicates that the prior perceptions and beliefs held by Australian policymakers and service providers about the effects of eHealth and mHealth interventions for smoking cessation are significantly detached enough from the evidence-base to affect the provision of effective interventions to smokers who want to quit.
More Natural More Better: Triple Natural Anti-Oxidant Puerarin/Ferulic Acid/Polydopamine Incorporated Hydrogel for Wound Healing
Authors: Ou Qianmin , Zhang Shaohan , Fu Chuanqiang , Yu Le , Gu Zhipeng , Cao Zeyuan , Xin Peikun , Wu Jun , Wang Yan
Published: May 2021

BackgroundDuring wound healing, the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can break the cellular oxidant/antioxidant balance, which prolongs healing. The wound dressings targeting the mitigation of ROS will be of great advantages for the wound healing. puerarin (PUE) and ferulic acid (FA) are natural compounds derived from herbs that exhibit multiple pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Polydopamine (PDA) is made from natural dopamine and shows excellent antioxidant function. Therefore, the combination of natural antioxidants into hydrogel dressing is a promising therapy for wound healing. Results Hybrid hydrogel wound dressings have been developed by incorporating PUE or FA via PDA nanoparticles (NPs) into polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEG-DA) hydrogel. This hydrogel can load natural antioxidant drugs and retain the drug in the gel network for a long period due to the presence of PDA NPs. Under oxidative stress, this hydrogel can improve the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase and reduce the levels of ROS and malondialdehyde, thus preventing oxidative damage to cells, and then promoting wound healing, tissue regeneration, and collagen accumulation. Conclusion Overall, this triple antioxidant hydrogel accelerates wound healing by alleviating oxidative injury. Our study thus provides a new way about co-delivery of multiple antioxidant natural molecules from herbs via antioxidant nanoparticles for wound healing and skin regeneration.
Fetal Growth Restriction and a Single Umbilical Artery are Independent Predictors of Hypospadias During Pregnancy
Authors: Endo Toyohide , Iida Miho , Ichihashi Yosuke , Oishi Maki , Ikenoue Satoru , Kasuga Yoshifumi , Sato Takeshi , Hida Mariko , Ishii Tomohiro , Asanuma Hiroshi , Hasegawa Tomonobu , Tanaka Mamoru , Ochiai Daigo
Published: May 2021

Objective

To investigate the association between hypospadias (HS) and small fetuses using a database on fetal ultrasound and obstetric events.
Methods

A cohort of male singleton infants delivered after 22 weeks of gestation at Keio University Hospital between 2013 and 2019 was retrospectively reviewed. Fetal growth restriction (FGR) was defined by the Delphi criteria. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the significant predictors of HS. Placental pathology was reviewed in cases with HS.
Results

2063 male infants delivered during the study period, 27 had HS. The prevalence of a single umbilical artery (SUA), small for gestational age, maternal hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and a small placenta, were significantly higher in infants with HS. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of FGR and an SUA were independently and significantly associated with HS. The association of FGR with HS was significant regardless of the time of onset. Moreover, the review of placental histological findings suggested that fetal vascular malperfusion might play a role in HS.
Conclusion

Our study suggests that FGR and SUAs are independent prenatal predictors for the development of HS and that fetal vascular malperfusion of the placenta may be involved in the etiology of HS.
Study on Removal Mechanism and Surface Quality of High Volume Fraction SiCp/Al Composites Based on Meso-Scale
Authors: Jin Po , Gao Qi , Wang Quanzhao , Li Wenbo
Published: May 2021

The milling process of SiCp/Al composites with high volume fraction and large particle size has been studied in this paper. The stress and strain distribution of SiC reinforced particles and the removal mechanism of the material are analysed. The effects of milling depth and feed per tooth on surface quality were analysed. The effect of feed per tooth on the thickness of subsurface damage layer is revealed. The results show that in the end milling process of high volume fraction SiCp/Al composites, the blade diameter is larger relative to the particle size, which leads to the main removal forms of particle size: extrusion crushing and rolling crushing. The surface defects of the machined workpiece mainly include cavity, crack and delamination caused by extrusion of aluminum matrix. The surface quality of the machined workpiece can be improved by increasing the milling depth appropriately. The increase of the feed rate of each tooth will lead to the increase of the surface defect of the machined workpiece and the deterioration of the surface quality. When the feed rate per tooth increases from 4 to 8 µm, the thickness of subsurface damage increases from 47.7 to 60.5 µm. It found that the ratio between the minimum cutting thickness of SiCp/Al composites and the radius of the cutting edge should be less than or equal to 4%.
Determinant factors to the rural and remote medical workforce in Maluku Islands of Indonesia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Noya Farah Christina , Carr Sandra E , Thompson Sandra , Clifford Rhonda , Playford Denese
Published: May 2021

Background

Many factors contribute to engagement in rural and remote medical practice but little is known about the determinant factors of rural and remote medical practice in the such remote locations as the Maluku Province of Indonesia. This study describes determinants, preferences and intentions of doctors in the rural and remote practice.
Methods

An online survey of work-related experience and intentions for future rural work was administered to 410 doctors working in the Maluku province of Indonesia. Participant characteristics were described using descriptive statistics, associations between the independent variables with the location of workforce, preference for rural practice and intention to remain in rural and remote Maluku were analysed using Chi-square tests and logistic regression.
Results

A total of 324 responses (79% response rate) were recorded comprising 70% females and 30% Pattimura University graduates of doctors employed in Maluku. Graduating from Pattimura University was associated with a nearly twofold rate of current rural practice and preference for future rural practice compared to graduates of other universities, and also predicted intention to stay rural. Those with rural background were twice as likely to prefer future rural practice and intend to stay rural. Younger age was associated with twofold odds of current rural practice, preferred future rural practice, and intention to stay rural. Smaller salary was associated with current rural practice. Smaller take home pay predicted current rural practice, but negatively impacted preference for future rural practice and intention to remain rural (OR < 1). Being in their early career was associated with current rural practice, and with preferred future rural practice and intention to stay rural. Being currently in a rural practice strongly predicted preferred future rural practice and intention to remain in rural practice (OR 15).
Conclusion

This study provides evidence that rural background predicts rural preference and intention, and shows the importance of a regional medical school in supplying doctors to a rural and remote region of Indonesia with persistent medical workforce shortage. Sustained collaboration between medical schools and local government to implement relevant strategies is needed to improve the recruitment and retention of rural doctors.