bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitive Near-Infrared Refractive Index Sensors Based on D-Shaped Photonic Crystal Fibers
Authors: Hoang Thu Trang , Pham Van Dai , Pham Thanh Son , Le Khai Q. , Ngo Quang Minh
Published: May 2021

We report a numerical study of D-shaped photonic crystal fiber based plasmonic refractive index sensor with high resolution and sensitivity in the near-infrared region. D-shaped photonic crystal fiber is formed by side polishing one part of photonic crystal fiber. It has a polishing
surface where plasmonic gold layer is coated to modulate the resonant wavelength and enhance the refractive index sensitivity. Several D-shaped photonic crystal fiber plasmonic sensors with various distances from the photonic crystal fiber’s core to the polishing surface and gold thicknesses
are designed and their characteristics are analyzed by the finite element method. The simulation results indicate that distance from the photonic crystal fiber’s core to the polishing surface causes modifications in the loss intensity, the resonant wavelength, and the refractive index
sensitivity of D-shaped photonic crystal fiber plasmonic sensor. Mass production of refractive index sensors were achieved using a simple fabrication process, whereby the D-shaped photonic crystal fiber is grinded where distance from the photonic crystal fiber’s core to the polishing
surface is less than one layer thickness and then coated with the gold layer. For the refractive index sensing applications, the maxima theoretical resolution and sensitivity of D-shaped photonic crystal fiber plasmonic sensor reach 2.98 × 10 6refractive index unit and 6,140
nm/refractive index unit in range of 1.30–1.37, respectively. We also report an initial fabrication of the D-shaped photonic crystal fiber following the standard stack-and- draw method to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed device by using our in-house equipments. The proposed
D-shaped photonic crystal fiber plasmonic sensor design in this work would be useful for the development of cheap refractive index sensors with high sensitivity and resolution.
Work Function Modulation of Few-Layer Graphene by Swift Heavy Ion Irradiation
Authors: Kasana P. K. , Shakya Jyoti , Mohanty Tanuja
Published: May 2021

Here, we report the structural and electronic modification induced in chemical vapor deposited graphene by using swift heavy ions (70 MeV Ni6+).Raman spectroscopy was used to quantify the irradiation-induced modification in vibrational properties. The increase in defect density
with fluence causes an increase in the intensity ratio of its characteristic Raman D and G band. The increase in defect density also results in a decrease in crystallite size. The changes in the crystal structure are observed from X-rays diffraction measurement. Swift heavy ion irradiation
induced defect, modified the surface roughness and surface potential of graphene thin film as measured from atomic force microscopy and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy respectively. The increase in the work function, surface roughness as well as defect concentration with fluence, indicate
the possibility of linear correlation between them. Presence of defects in graphene sheets strongly affects surface electronic and optical properties of the material that can be used to tailor the optoelectronics device performance.
Effect of Structural Deficiencies on Bi-Ferroic Behaviors of Lead-Free Bi0.5 Na0.40K0.10TiO3 Films
Authors: Quan Ngo Due , Minh Nguyen Due , Hung Hoang Viet
Published: May 2021

Lead-free Bi0.5Na0.4K0.1TiO3 (BNKT) ferroelectric films on Pt/TI/SIO2/Si substrates were prepared via a sol-gel spin coating routine. The microstructures and multiferroic behaviors of the films were examined intimately as a function
of the annealing time. A rise of annealing time enhanced the crystallization of the films via the perovskite structure. The multiferroic behavior, including simultaneously the magnetic and ferroelectric orders, was observed altogether the films. When the annealing time rose, ferroelectric
and magnetic properties were found significantly increased. The remnant polarization (Pr), also as maximum polarization (Pm) respectively increased to the very best values of 11.5 µC/cm2 and 40.0 µC/cm2 under an applied electric field
of 500 kV/cm. The saturated magnetization (Ms) of films increased to 2.3 emu/cm3 for the annealing time of 60 minutes. Oxygen vacancies, originating from the evaporation of metal ions during annealing at high temperatures are attributed to the explanation for ferromagnetism
within the BNKT films.
Synthesis of Oxygen-Rich Bismuth Oxybromide (Bi24O31Br10) Photocatalyst for High Efficiency Degradation of Sulfadiazine Under Simulated Sunlight
Authors: Pei Zhenzhao , Li Feng , Zhang Dandan , Zhang Yulong , Zhou Jiaxin , Guo Hongyan , Jiaqin Wang Lifang Zhufand
Published: May 2021

At present, compared with other antibiotic degradation systems, there are few literatures on pho- tocatalytic degradation of sulfadiazine (SDZ). In this research, it was firstly discovered that the oxygen-rich bismuth oxybromide (Bi24O31 Br10) photocatalyst
can efficiently degrade SDZ under simulated sunlight. In this paper, the prepared Bi24O31Br10 photocatalyst by mixed solvothermal method represented outstanding photocatalytic performance. The catalyst synthesized at 120 °C and pH = 10 showed optimum degradation
function in the samples prepared at various temperatures and pH value. After 3 h of irradiation, 96.2% of SDZ solution could be decomposed. The effects of preparation conditions, catalyst dosage, initial SDZ concentration and initial SDZ pH value on photocatalytic degradation efficiency were
investigated systematically. Besides, the effect of active species was studied by trapping tests, and it was concluded that ‘O2 contributes the most to the photocatalytic process. A possible photocatalytic degradation mechanism was proposed.
Synthesis of Nanocomposites of V2OO5©Selenium Nanoparticles and Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes for Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Francklin Philips Muthukrishnan , Thangarathinam Jothirathinam , Princy Jayakumar , Crispin Tina Cyril Arockiaraj , Crispin Tina Cyril Arockiaraj , Kasthuri Annadurai
Published: May 2021

The authors report the preparation of the nanocomposite comprising of vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) and selenium (Se) nanoparticles and functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (V2O5@Se NPs/MWCNTs). Since Se NPs possesses extraordinary
physicochemical properties including larger surface area with higher adsorption capacity, V2O5 NPs were adsorbed onto Se NPs surface through physisorption process (designated as V2O5@Se NPs). The nanocomposite synthesized hydrothermally was evaluated
for its antimicrobial activity. The morphology and microstructure of the nanocomposite were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) were employed
to analyze the spectral properties of nanocomposite. The microbicidal efficacy of nanocomposite was tested against Gram-negative (G-)ZGram-positive (G+) bacteria and fungus. This is the first report on the synthesis of V2O5@Se NPs/MWCNTs nanocomposites by chemical method
that showed microbicidal effect on micro-organisms. The thiol (-SH) units facilitates the enrichment of V2O5@Se NPs onto MWCNTs surface. Ultimately, it reflects on the significant antimicrobial activity of V2O5@Se NPs/MWCNTs.
Initial Dynamic Susceptibility of Maghemite Nanoparticles Dispersed in Surface-Treated Polymeric Template
Authors: Rodriguez A. F. R. , Lacerda R. F. , Maggi L. E. , Mohammadpour Hory , Niyaifar Mohammad , Niyaifar Shahrokh , Santos Judes G. , Morales M. A.
Published: May 2021

Magnetic nanocomposites based on maghemite nanoparticles supported (ex situ route) on styrene- divinilbenzene (Sty-DVB) copolymer templates were produced and characterized for their structure and morphology. The as-produced nanocomposites were further chemically-treated with
different oxidant agents and surface-coated with stearic acid. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy data show that the incorporated nanoparticles are preserved despite the aggressive chemical treatments employed. From the dynamical susceptibility measurements performed on
the nanocomposites, the values of the saturation magnetization (76 emu/g) and the effective magnetic anisotropy (1.7 × 104 J/m3) were obtained, in excellent agreement with the values reported in the literature for maghemite. This finding strongly supports the preservation
of the magnetic properties of the supported nanosized maghemite throughout the entire samples’ processing.
Electrochemical Determination of Levodopa Using Zinc Sulfide Nanospheres-Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Wang Z. Z. , Wu P. F. , Yue H. Y. , Gao X. , Ma Y. Y. , Ma Y. Y. , Guo X. R. , Zhang H. P.
Published: May 2021

Zinc sulfide nanospheres (ZnS NSs) were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis and graphene oxide (GO) was prepared by the Hummer’s method. ZnS NSs-rGO/ITO electrode was synthesized by heat treatment at a certain temperature, which was used for the detailed electrochemical determination
of levodopa (LD). Finally, they were annealed to form the ZnS NSs-rGO/ITO electrode for detecting levodopa (LD). The results reveal that the ZnS NSs with the diameter of ~1 μm are covered by rGO. The ZnS NSs-rGO/ITO electrode has a good sensitivity of 1.43 μA μM −1
for the determination of LD in the concentration range of 1–40 μM. Moreover, it also shows a good selectivity, reproducibility and stability. In order to verify the practicability, we also use the electrode to detect LD in human serum. The detection results also prove that the electrode
can be used in real life.
Observed Influence of Soil Moisture on the North American Monsoon: An Assessment Using the Stepwise Generalized Equilibrium Feedback Assessment Method
Authors: Wang Yuechun , Quiring Steven M.
Published: May 2021

The evidence shows that soil moisture has an important influence on North American monsoon (NAM) precipitation. This study evaluates the local and nonlocal feedbacks of soil moisture on summer (June–September) precipitation in the NAM region using observational data. We applied a multivariate statistical method known as the Stepwise Generalized Equilibrium Feedback Assessment (SGEFA) to control for internal atmospheric variability and sea surface temperature (SST) forcings so that we could isolate the impact of soil moisture feedbacks on NAM precipitation. Our results identify feedback pathways between soil moisture and precipitation in the NAM region and in the southern Rocky Mountains (SRM) region. Wet soils in the SRM result in lower-than-normal local surface temperature, weaker water vapor transport from the eastern Pacific and the Gulf of California (GOC), and less monsoon precipitation. Precipitation over the U.S. Great Plains also significantly increases when there are wet soils in the SRM. This occurs due to an enhanced water vapor influx into this region. On the other hand, anomalously wet soils in the NAM region increase NAM precipitation by enhancing local moist static energy and increasing the strength of the monsoonal circulation. Our observational results using SGEFA agree well with previous numerical modeling studies. This study highlights the critical role of land–atmosphere interactions for understanding NAM variability.
Experimental and numerical investigations on novel models for mechanical behaviors of the elastic ring in aero-engine
Authors: Luo Zhong , Li Lei , Yang Yang , Hou Xiaojie , Liu Jiaxi , Ding Zhe
Published: May 2021

The elastic ring is widely used in elastic support structures of aero-engine because of its simple structure and convenient manufacturing. In this paper, two elastic ring models, 3D and 2D models, are proposed, where the fillets between the bulges and ring are considered. The 2D model is more efficient for the calculation of stiffness characteristics. The 3D model can be used to obtain the maximum stress position in the axial direction. Then the experimental testing is carried out to verify the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed models. Based on the proposed models, the stiffness nonlinearity and critical load of the elastic ring are found for the first time, which can be used to determine the normal working load range. Moreover, the elastic ring models with and without fillets are developed, and the effect of the fillets on stress is discussed. The results show that the stress is reduced by considering the fillets, which are not considered in the existing literature.
Role of angiopoietin-2 in venous thrombus resolution and chronic thromboembolic disease
Authors: Hobohm Lukas , Kölmel Sebastian , Niemann Caroline , Kümpers Philipp , Krieg Valentin J. , Bochenek Magdalena L. , Lukasz Alexander H. , Reiss Yvonne , Plate Karl-Heinz , Liebetrau Christoph , Wiedenroth Christoph B. , Guth Stefan , Münzel Thomas , Hasenfuß Gerd , Wenzel Philip , Mayer Eckhard , Konstantinides Stavros V. , Schäfer Katrin , Lankeit Mareike
Published: May 2021

Background

Defective angiogenesis, incomplete thrombus revascularisation and fibrosis are considered critical pathomechanisms of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) after pulmonary embolism. Angiopoietin-2 (ANGPT2) has been shown to regulate angiogenesis, but its importance for thrombus resolution and remodelling is unknown.

Methods

ANGPT2 plasma concentrations were measured in patients with CTEPH (n=68) and acute pulmonary embolism (n=84). Tissue removed during pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) for CTEPH was analysed (immuno)histologically. A mouse model of inferior vena cava ligation was used to study the kinetics of venous thrombus resolution in wild-type mice receiving recombinant ANGPT2viaosmotic pumps, and in transgenic mice overexpressing ANGPT2 in endothelial cells.

Results

Circulating ANGPT2 levels were higher in CTEPH patients compared to patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and healthy controls, and decreased after PEA. Plasma ANGPT2 levels were elevated in patients with pulmonary embolism and diagnosis of CTEPH during follow-up. Histological analysis of PEA specimens confirmed increased ANGPT2 expression, and low levels of phosphorylated TIE2 were observed in regions with early-organised pulmonary thrombi, myofibroblasts and fibrosis. Microarray and high-resolution microscopy analysis could localise ANGPT2 overexpression to endothelial cells, and hypoxia and transforming growth factor-β1 were identified as potential stimuli. Gain-of-function experiments in mice demonstrated that exogenous ANGPT2 administration and transgenic endothelial ANGPT2 overexpression resulted in delayed venous thrombus resolution, and thrombi were characterised by lower TIE2 phosphorylation and fewer microvessels.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that ANGPT2 delays venous thrombus resolution and that overexpression of ANGPT2 contributes to thrombofibrosis and may thus support the transition from pulmonary embolism to CTEPH.
Assessing the impacts of cell wall composition on the optimum stage for “Uradome” in moso bamboo
Authors: Furusawa Yuka , Ashitani Tatsuya
Published: May 2021

Snow damage is problematic when cultivating bamboo shoots, and “Uradome”, the practice of removing the tips of new shoots, is used as a preventative measure. Producers perform “Uradome” at empirical times, but there is no scientific basis for this. We hypothesized that differences in the structure and composition of the cell wall might affect the optimal timing of "Uradome" and analyzed the cell wall components of the “Uradome” portion. The lower plant sections broken by the “Uradome” had larger cellulose and lignin depositions than the upper sections. However, there were no differences in the lignin structure or ratio between the upper and lower nodes of the broken sections. This suggests that differences in the degree of cellulose and lignin deposition have significant effects on “Uradome” sites, and that the timing coincides with the development of one or two juvenile branches, which growers empirically consider to be the appropriate time. These results are considered to be new findings that scientifically support the cultivation management of bamboo that has been conducted empirically.
TarDB: an online database for plant miRNA targets and miRNA-triggered phased siRNAs
Authors: Liu Jing , Liu Xiaonan , Zhang Siju , Liang Shanshan , Luan Weijiang , Ma Xuan
Published: May 2021

Background

In plants, microRNAs (miRNAs) are pivotal regulators of plant development and stress responses. Different computational tools and web servers have been developed for plant miRNA target prediction; however, in silico prediction normally contains false positive results. In addition, many plant miRNA target prediction servers lack information for miRNA-triggered phased small interfering RNAs (phasiRNAs). Creating a comprehensive and relatively high-confidence plant miRNA target database is much needed.

Results

Here, we report TarDB, an online database that collects three categories of relatively high-confidence plant miRNA targets: (i) cross-species conserved miRNA targets; (ii) degradome/PARE (Parallel Analysis of RNA Ends) sequencing supported miRNA targets; (iii) miRNA-triggered phasiRNA loci. TarDB provides a user-friendly interface that enables users to easily search, browse and retrieve miRNA targets and miRNA initiated phasiRNAs in a broad variety of plants. TarDB has a comprehensive collection of reliable plant miRNA targets containing previously unreported miRNA targets and miRNA-triggered phasiRNAs even in the well-studied model species. Most of these novel miRNA targets are relevant to lineage-specific or species-specific miRNAs. TarDB data is freely available at http://www.biosequencing.cn/TarDB.

Conclusions

In summary, TarDB serves as a useful web resource for exploring relatively high-confidence miRNA targets and miRNA-triggered phasiRNAs in plants.
Comparative transcriptome profiling and co-expression network analysis uncover the key genes associated withearly-stage resistance to Aspergillus flavus in maize
Authors: Liu Huanhuan , Wu Haofeng , Wang Yan , Wang Huan , Chen Saihua , Yin Zhitong
Published: May 2021

Background

The fungus Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) is a serious threat to maize (Zea mays) production worldwide. It causes considerable yield and economic losses, and poses a health risk to humans and livestock due to the high toxicity of aflatoxin. However, key genes and regulatory networks conferring maize resistance to A. flavus are not clear, especially at the early stage of infection. Here, we performed a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of two maize inbred lines with contrasting resistance to A. flavus infection.

Results

The pairwise comparisons between mock and infected kernels in each line during the first 6 h post inoculation (hpi) showed that maize resistance to A. flavus infection was specific to the genotype and infection stage, and defense pathways were strengthened in the resistant line. Further comparison of the two maize lines revealed that the infection-induced up-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the resistant line might underlie the enhanced resistance. Gene co-expression network analysis by WGCNA (weighted gene co-expression network analysis) identified 7 modules that were significantly associated with different infection stages, and 110 hub genes of these modules. These key regulators mainly participate in the biosynthesis of fatty acid and antibiotics. In addition, 90 candidate genes for maize resistance to A. flavus infection and/or aflatoxin contamination obtained in previous studies were confirmed to be differentially expressed between the resistant and susceptible lines within the first 6 hpi.

Conclusion

This work unveiled more A. flavus resistance genes and provided a detailed regulatory network of early-stage resistance to A. flavus in maize.
Is geriatric depression scale a valid instrument to screen depression in Chinese community-dwelling elderly?
Authors: Huang Feifei , Wang Huijun , Wang Zhihong , Zhang Jiguo , Du Wenwen , Jia Xiaofang , Wang Liusen , Zhang Bing
Published: May 2021

Background

The geriatric depression scale (GDS) is used widely as a screening instrument for depression worldwide. The present study aims to examine the reliability and validity of the GDS with 30 items (GDS-30) in Chinese cognitively normal elderly, and to preliminarily investigate the appropriateness of the GDS-30 among screened mild cognitive impairment (MCI) elderly and among the large-scale community-dwelling Chinese elderly.

Methods

A total of 12,610 Chinese elderly completed GDS-30 in the project of Community-based Cohort Study on Nervous System Diseases. Of these, 5503 individuals with the ability to perform basic daily living activities were randomly sampled to further complete the Montreal Cognitive Assessment to screen for MCI. The cutoff value of screened depression was 11, and the cutoff values of MCI were education-dependent. Internal consistency was used to evaluate the reliability. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to determine the factor structure. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess the construct validity in the elderly screened normal cognition, screened MCI, and the whole population, respectively.

Results

The Kuder-Richardson coefficient (KR20) was 0.834, 0.821 and 0.840 for the cognitively normal elderly, screened MCI and the whole population, respectively. EFA showed that GDS-30 can be either a four-factor model (named positive mood, dysphoria, worry, and social withdrawal-cognitive impairment) or a two-factor model (named depression and positive mood). The latter was easier to interpret. CFA showed that the two-factor model fitted well in the elderly with normal cognition, with screened MCI, and the whole sample. The factors loaded from 0.900 to 0.588, 0.882 to 0.529, and 0.888 to 0.556 in these three populations respectively.

Conclusions

The GDS-30 has good reliability and validity and can be appropriately applied to screen depression in the large-scale community-dwelling Chinese elderly regardless of the presence of mild cognitive impairment.
Population structure and diversity of Plasmodium falciparum in children with asymptomatic malaria living in different ecological zones of Ghana
Authors: Amoah Linda Eva , Abukari Zakaria , Dawson-Amoah Maame Esi , Dieng Cheikh Cambel , Lo Eugenia , Afrane Yaw Asare
Published: May 2021

Background

Genetic diversity in Plasmodium falciparum populations can be used to describe the resilience and spatial distribution of the parasite in the midst of intensified intervention efforts. This study used microsatellite analysis to evaluate the genetic diversity and population dynamics of P. falciparum parasites circulating in three ecological zones of Ghana.

Methods

A total of 1168 afebrile children aged between 3 to 13 years were recruited from five (5) Primary schools in 3 different ecological zones (Sahel (Tamale and Kumbungu), Forest (Konongo) and Coastal (Ada and Dodowa)) of Ghana. Asymptomatic malaria parasite carriage was determined using microscopy and PCR, whilst fragment analysis of 6 microsatellite loci was used to determine the diversity and population structure of P. falciparum parasites.

Results

Out of the 1168 samples examined, 16.1 and 39.5% tested positive for P. falciparum by microscopy and nested PCR respectively. The genetic diversity of parasites in the 3 ecological zones was generally high, with an average heterozygosity (He) of 0.804, 0.787 and 0.608 the rainy (peak) season for the Sahel, Forest and Coastal zones respectively. The mean He for the dry (off-peak) season were 0.562, 0.693 and 0.610 for the Sahel, Forest and Coastal zones respectively. Parasites from the Forest zone were more closely related to those from the Sahel than from the Coastal zone, despite the Coastal zone being closer in physical distance to the Forest zone. The fixation indexes among study sites ranged from 0.049 to 0.112 during the rainy season and 0.112 to 0.348 during the dry season.

Conclusion

A large asymptomatic parasite reservoir was found in the school children during both rainy and dry seasons, especially those in the Forest and Sahel savannah zones where parasites were also found to be related compared to those from the Coastal zone. Further studies are recommended to understand why despite the roll out of several malaria interventions in Ghana, high transmission still persist.
Using patients’ own knowledge of early sensations and symptoms to develop an interactive, individualized e-questionnaire to facilitate early diagnosis of lung cancer
Authors: Levitsky Adrian , Bernhardson Britt-Marie , Henoch Ingela , Olin Maria , Kölbeck Karl , Rystedt Nadja , Tishelman Carol , Eriksson Lars E.
Published: May 2021

Background

One reason for the often late diagnosis of lung cancer (LC) may be that potentially-indicative sensations and symptoms are often diffuse, and may not be considered serious or urgent, making their interpretation complicated. However, with only a few exceptions, efforts to use people’s own in-depth knowledge about prodromal bodily experiences has been a missing link in efforts to facilitate early LC diagnosis. In this study, we describe and discuss facilitators and challenges in our process of developing and initial testing an interactive, self-completion e-questionnaire based on patient descriptions of experienced prodromal sensations and symptoms, to support early identification of lung cancer (LC).

Methods

E-questionnaire items were derived from in-depth, detailed explorative interviews with individuals undergoing investigation for suspected LC. The descriptors of sensations/symptoms and the background items obtained were the basis for developing an interactive, individualized instrument, PEX-LC, which was refined for usability through think-aloud and other interviews with patients, members of the public, and clinical staff.

Results

Major challenges in the process of developing PEX-LC related to collaboration among many actors, and design/user interface problems including technical issues. Most problems identified through the think-aloud interviews related to design/user interface problems and technical issues rather than content, for example we re-ordered questions to be in line with patients’ chronological, rather than retrospective, descriptions of their experiences. PEX-LC was developed into a final e-questionnaire on a touch-screen smart tablet with one background module covering sociodemographic characteristics, 10 interactive, individualized modules covering early sensations and symptoms, and a 12th assessing current symptoms.

Conclusions

Close collaboration with patients throughout the process was intrinsic for developing PEX-LC. Similarly, we recognized the extent to which clinicians and technical experts were also important in this process. Similar endeavors should assure all necessary competence is included in the core research team, to facilitate timely progress. Our experiences developing PEX-LC combined with new empirical research suggest that this individualized, interactive e-questionnaire, developed through systematizing patients’ own formulations of their prodromal symptom experiences, is both feasible for use and has potential value in the intended group.
Combination of gemcitabine, nab-paclitaxel, and S-1(GAS) as the first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced or advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: study protocol for an open-label, single-arm phase I study
Authors: Chang Chen , Li Xiaofen , Cao Dan
Published: May 2021

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still a highly fatal malignancy among the most common cancers. More powerful treatments are expecting to bring hope for patients. Biweekly gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel/S-1 (GAS) was proved safe and effective for patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer in Japan. The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and toxicity of GAS (repeated every 3 weeks) in the treatment of locally advanced or advanced pancreatic cancer and determine the recommended dose of S-1 in this combination.

Methods

This is an open-label, single-arm, and single-center phase I trial. Patients who have been diagnosed with locally advanced or advanced PDAC pathologically without previous systemic treatments will be enrolled and be treated with GAS chemotherapy every 3 weeks (nab-paclitaxel 125 mg/m 2, ivgtt, day1, 8; gemcitabine 1000 mg/m2, day1, 8; different doses of S-1 within a dose escalation scheme) until the presence of disease progression (PD), intolerable adverse events (AEs), or requirement of patients and researchers. The primary endpoints are maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). The secondary endpoints include safety, objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Discussion

This trial will adjust the administration of GAS to make it more effective for Chinese patients, while exploring the toxicity and feasibility of this adjustment.

Trial registration

ChiCTR, (ChiCTR1900027833). Registered 30 November 2019.
The population-based prevalence of trachomatous scarring in a trachoma hyperendemic setting: results from 152 impact surveys in Amhara, Ethiopia
Authors: Astale Tigist , Ebert Caleb D. , Nute Andrew W. , Zerihun Mulat , Gessese Demelash , Melak Berhanu , Sata Eshetu , Ayele Zebene , Ayenew Gedefaw , Callahan E. Kelly , Haile Mahteme , Zeru Taye , Tadesse Zerihun , Nash Scott D.
Published: May 2021

Background

Trachomatous scarring (TS) results from repeated infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Pronounced scarring is an underlying cause of trachomatous trichiasis (TT) that can lead to blindness. Since the condition is irreversible, TS in adults has been considered a marker of past exposure to trachoma infection. The aim of this report was to estimate the population-based prevalence of TS within Amhara, Ethiopia, a region with a historically high burden of trachoma.

Methods

District-level multi-stage cluster surveys were conducted in all districts between 2010 and 2015 to monitor the impact of approximately 5 years of trachoma interventions. Approximately 40 households were sampled per cluster and all participants ages ≥ 1 year were graded for the 5 World Health Organization simplified signs. Before each survey round, trachoma graders participated in a 7-day training and reliability exam that included cases of TS. TS prevalence estimates were weighted to account for sampling design and adjusted for age and sex using post-stratification weighting.

Results

Across the 152 districts in Amhara, 208,510 individuals ages 1 year and older were examined for the signs of trachoma. Region-wide, the prevalence of TS was 8.2 %, (95 % Confidence Interval [CI]: 7.7–8.6 %), and the prevalence among individuals ages 15 years and older (n = 110,137) was 12.6 % (95 % CI: 12.0–13.3 %). District-level TS prevalence among individuals ages 15 years and older ranged from 0.9 to 36.9 % and was moderately correlated with district prevalence of TT (r = 0.31; P < 0.001). The prevalence of TS increased with age, reaching 22.4 % among those ages 56 to 60 years and 24.2 % among those ages 61 to 65 years. Among children ages 1 to 15 years TS prevalence was 2.2 % (95 % CI: 1.8–2.8 %), increased with age (P < 0.001), and 5 % of individuals with TS also had trachomatous inflammation-intense (TI).

Conclusions

These results suggest that Amhara has had a long history of trachoma exposure and that a large population remains at risk for developing TT. It is promising, however, that children, many born after interventions began, have low levels of TS compared to other known trachoma-hyperendemic areas.
Electronic reporting of integrated disease surveillance and response: lessons learned from northeast, Nigeria, 2019
Authors: Ibrahim Luka Mangveep , Okudo Ifeanyi , Stephen Mary , Ogundiran Opeayo , Pantuvo Jerry Shitta , Oyaole Daniel Rasheed , Tegegne Sisay Gashu , Khalid Abdelrahim , Ilori Elsie , Ojo Olubunmi , Ihekweazu Chikwe , Baraka Fiona , Mulombo Walter Kazadi , Lasuba Clement Lugala Peter , Nsubuga Peter , Alemu Wondimagegnehu
Published: May 2021

Background

Electronic reporting of integrated disease surveillance and response (eIDSR) was implemented in Adamawa and Yobe states, Northeastern Nigeria, as an innovative strategy to improve disease reporting. Its objectives were to improve the timeliness and completeness of IDSR reporting by health facilities, prompt identification of public health events, timely information sharing, and public health action. We evaluated the project to determine whether it met its set objectives.

Method

We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess and document the lessons learned from the project. We reviewed the performance of the local government areas (LGAs) on timeliness and completeness of reporting, rumors identification, and reporting on the eIDSR and the traditional paper-based system using a checklist. Respondents were interviewed online on the relevance, efficiency, sustainability, project progress and effectiveness, the effectiveness of management, and potential impact and scalability of the strategy using structured questionnaires. Data were cleaned, analyzed, and presented as proportions using an MS Excel spreadsheet. Responses were also presented as direct quotes.

Results

The number of health facilities reporting IDSR increased from 103 to 228 (117%) before and after implementation of the eIDSR respectively. The timeliness of reporting was 43% in the LGA compared to 73% in health facilities implementing eIDSR. The completeness of IDSR reports in the last 6 months before the evaluation was ≥85%. Of the 201 rumors identified and verified, 161 (80%) were from the eIDSR pilot sites. The majority of the stakeholders interviewed believed that eIDSR met its predetermined objectives for public health surveillance. The benefits of eIDSR included timely reporting and response to alerts and disease outbreaks, improved timeliness, and completeness of reporting, and supportive supervision to the operational levels. The strategy helped stakeholders to appreciate their roles in public health surveillance.

Conclusion

The eIDSR has increased the number of health facilities reporting IDSR, enabled early identification, reporting, and verification of alerts, improved timeliness and completeness of reports, and supportive supervision of staff at the operational levels. It was well accepted by the stakeholder as a system that made reporting easy with the potential to improve the public health surveillance system in Nigeria.
The role of gender power relations on women’s health outcomes: evidence from a maternal health coverage survey in Simiyu region, Tanzania
Authors: Garrison-Desany Henri M. , Wilson Emily , Munos Melinda , Sawadogo-Lewis Talata , Maïga Abdoulaye , Ako Onome , Mkuwa Serafina , Hobbs Amy J. , Morgan Rosemary
Published: May 2021

Background

Gender is a crucial consideration of human rights that impacts many priority maternal health outcomes. However, gender is often only reported in relation to sex-disaggregated data in health coverage surveys. Few coverage surveys to date have integrated a more expansive set of gender-related questions and indicators, especially in low- to middle-income countries that have high levels of reported gender inequality. Using various gender-sensitive indicators, we investigated the role of gender power relations within households on women’s health outcomes in Simiyu region, Tanzania.

Methods

We assessed 34 questions around gender dynamics reported by men and women against 18 women’s health outcomes. We created directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to theorize the relationship between indicators, outcomes, and sociodemographic covariates. We grouped gender variables into four categories using an established gender framework: (1) women’s decision-making, (2) household labor-sharing, (3) women’s resource access, and (4) norms/beliefs. Gender indicators that were most proximate to the health outcomes in the DAG were tested using multivariate logistic regression, adjusting for sociodemographic factors.

Results

The overall percent agreement of gender-related indicators within couples was 68.6%. The lowest couple concordance was a woman’s autonomy to decide to see family/friends without permission from her husband/partner (40.1%). A number of relationships between gender-related indicators and health outcomes emerged: questions from the decision-making domain were found to play a large role in women’s health outcomes, and condoms and contraceptive outcomes had the most robust relationship with gender indicators. Women who reported being able to make their own health decisions were 1.57 times (95% CI: 1.12, 2.20) more likely to use condoms. Women who reported that they decide how many children they had also reported high contraception use (OR: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.34, 2.39). Seeking care at the health facility was also associated with women’s autonomy for making major household purchases (OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.62).

Conclusions

The association between decision-making and other gender domains with women’s health outcomes highlights the need for heightened attention to gender dimensions of intervention coverage in maternal health. Future studies should integrate and analyze gender-sensitive questions within coverage surveys.
LiveWell in early childhood: results from a two-year pilot intervention to improve nutrition and physical activity policies, systems and environments among early childhood education programs in South Carolina
Authors: Slining Meghan , Wills Sally , Fair Melissa , Stephenson Jen , Knobel Stephanie , Pearson Misty , Prostko Tia , Smyers Joanna , Timberlake Joanne , Negrete Miguel
Published: May 2021

Background

Early childhood education (ECE) settings are critical intervention targets for obesity prevention. This study evaluated a pilot two-year community-based participatory research (CBPR) project designed to assist ECE center directors and caregivers in policy, systems and environmental (PSE) change for improving healthy eating (HE) and physical activity (PA).

Methods

A two-year CBPR study was conducted in 10 licensed ECE centers in Greenville, South Carolina. The intervention consisted of five steps: [1] baseline data collection and self-assessment using the Nutrition and Physical Activity Self-Assessment for Child Care (Go-NAP SACC), [2] tailored goal setting and action planning, [3] technical assistance and access to resources, [4] post intervention data collection and re-assessment, and [5] celebration of success. Main outcome measures (HE and PA environments, practices and policies) were assessed using the Environment and Policy Assessment and Observation (EPAO) tool at baseline and 24 months. One classroom of 3–5-year-olds was randomly selected for observation from each center (mean of 12 children per classroom). Means and standard deviations were calculated for total PA, total nutrition and each subscale of PA and nutrition. Paired sample t-tests were calculated to assess changes in EPAO scales from baseline to post intervention.

Results

Ten ECE centers enrolled in the pilot study and eight completed the two-year intervention. Center-based goals were accomplished across all 8 ECE centers over the two-year intervention: 16 child nutrition goals, 6 outdoor play goals, 11 physical activity goals and 8 screen time goals across the entire sample. Nutrition policy and PA policy significantly improved (p < 0.05), with greater improvements in PA (10.0 point increase, p = .048) as compared to nutrition (3.3 point increase, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Utilizing a CBPR approach, this two-year nutrition and PA PSE intervention in ECE centers improved ECE center HE and PA policies.
Asthma prevalence and associated factors among lebanese adults: the first national survey
Authors: Akiki Zeina , Saadeh Danielle , Farah Rita , Hallit Souheil , Sacre Hala , Hosseini Hassan , Salameh Pascale
Published: May 2021

Background

No national research has yet explored the prevalence of asthma among adults in Lebanon. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of physician-diagnosed asthma and current asthma, and their determinants among Lebanese adults 16 years old or above.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out using a multistage cluster sampling. The questionnaire used collected information on asthma, respiratory symptoms, and risk factors.

Results

The prevalence of physician-diagnosed asthma was 6.7% (95% CI 5–8.7%), and that of current asthma was 5% (95% CI 3.6–6.9%). Chronic symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath were worst at night. Factors positively associated with physician-diagnosed asthma were a secondary educational level (adjusted OR, aOR = 4.45), a family history of chronic respiratory diseases (aOR = 2.78), lung problems during childhood (15.9), and allergic rhinitis (4.19). Additionally, consuming fruits and vegetables less than once per week (3.36), a family history of chronic respiratory diseases (3.92), lung problems during childhood (9.43), and allergic rhinitis (8.12) were positively associated with current asthma.

Conclusions

The prevalence of asthma was within the range reported from surrounding countries. However, repeated cross-sectional studies are necessary to evaluate trends in asthma prevalence in the Lebanese population.
The association between TP53 rs1625895 polymorphism and the risk of sarcopenic obesity in Iranian older adults: a case-control study
Authors: Montazeri-Najafabady Nima , Dabbaghmanesh Mohammad Hossein , Nasimi Nasrin , Sohrabi Zahra , Chatrabnous Nazanin
Published: May 2021

Background

Aging and obesity are the two major global health concerns. Sarcopenia, an age-linked disease, wherein a progressive loss of muscle volume, muscle strength, and physical activity occurs. In this study we evaluated the association of TP53 rs1625895 polymorphism with the susceptibility to sarcopenic obesity in Iranian old-age subjects.

Methods

Total of 176 old individuals (45 sarcopenic and 131 healthy) were recruited in this research and genotyped by PCR–RFLP. BMI, Skeletal Muscle Mass Index, body composition, Handgrip Strength, Gait Speed (GS), and biochemical parameters were measured. Chi-square test was done for genotypes and alleles frequency. Linear regression was applied to find the correlation between TP53 rs1625895 polymorphism, and biochemical and anthropometric parameters. The correlation between TP53 rs1625895 and the risk of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity was investigated by logistic regression.

Results

G allele was significantly higher in sarcopenic obesity group [P = 0.037, OR (CI 95%) = 1.9 (1.03–3.5)] compared to A allele. BMI (P = 0.049) and LDL (P = 0.04) were significantly differed between genotypes when GG was compared to AA/AG genotype. The results revealed when GG genotype compared to AA/AG genotype in adjusted model for age, the risk of sarcopenic obesity [P value = 0.011, OR (CI 95%); 2.72 (1.25–5.91)] increased. Similarly, GG/AG genotype increased the risk of sarcopenic obesity [P value = 0.028, OR (CI 95%); 2.43 (1.10–5.36)] in adjusted model for age compared to AA genotype.

Conclusions

We suggested that TP53 rs1625895 polymorphism may increase the risk of sarcopenic obesity in Iranian population.
Oral health and use of dental services in different stages of adulthood in Norway: a cross sectional study
Authors: Hadler-Olsen Elin , Jönsson Birgitta
Published: May 2021

Background

Socioeconomic status and oral health care habits may change throughout adult life. This calls for age-stratified analyses of oral health in the adult population to uncover differences that could be of importance for organizing adequate oral health care services. The aim of the present study was to describe self-reported oral health in different age groups in a general adult population in Norway, and to explore associations between self-reported oral health and age groups, sociodemographic factors, use of dental services, number of teeth and dental caries.

Methods

We used data from a cross-sectional study of almost 2000 Norwegian adults, 20–79 years old. The study included both a structured questionnaire and a clinical examination to assess sociodemographic variables, use of dental services, self-reported oral and general health as well as dental caries and number of teeth. For analysis, the participants were divided into three age groups: young adults (20–29 years), middle-aged adults (30–59 years), and senior adults (60 years and older). Differences among groups were analyzed by cross-tabulation, and logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between variables.

Results

Forty-eight percent of the participants rated their oral health as good. Almost half of the participants had at least one carious tooth, with the highest caries prevalence among the young adults. To be caries free was strongly associated with reporting good oral health among the young and middle-aged adults. One third of the senior adults had fewer than 20 teeth, which was associated with reporting moderate or poor oral health. Less than half of the young adults reported regular use of dental services, and 40% of them had postponed dental visits for financial reasons during the past 2 years. Regardless of age group, having to postpone dental visits for financial reasons or having poor-to-moderate general health were associated with high odds for reporting moderate or poor oral health.

Conclusions

That there were important age-group differences in self-reported and clinical measures of oral health and in the use of dental health services demonstrates the importance of age-stratified analyses in oral health research. Many adults, especially among the young, faced financial barriers for receiving dental health services, which was associated with poorer self-reported oral health. This argues for a need to revisit the financing of oral health care for adults in Norway.
Chemotherapy-based gonadotoxicity risk evaluation as a predictor of reproductive outcomes in post-pubertal patients following ovarian tissue cryopreservation
Authors: Karavani Gilad , Rottenstreich Amihai , Schachter-Safrai Natali , Cohen Adiel , Weintraub Michael , Imbar Tal , Revel Ariel
Published: May 2021

Background

The sterilizing effect of cancer treatment depends mostly on the chemotherapy regimen and extent of radiotherapy. Prediction of long-term reproductive outcomes among cancer survivors according to chemo-radiotherapy regimen may improve pre-treatment fertility preservation counseling and future reproductive outcomes.

Methods

The aim of this study was to evaluate long term reproductive outcomes in cancer survivors according to gonadotoxicity risk estimation of the chemo-radiotherapy regimens utilized. This retrospective cohort study was comprised of post-pubertal female patients referred for fertility preservation during 1997 and 2017 was performed. Eligible adult patients were addressed and asked to complete a clinical survey regarding their ovarian function, menstruation, reproductive experience and ovarian tissue auto-transplantation procedures. Results were stratified according to the gonadotoxic potential of chemotherapy and radiotherapy they received—low, moderate and high-risk, defined by the regimen used, the cumulative dose of chemotherapy administered and radiation therapy extent.

Results

A total of 120 patients were eligible for the survey. Of those, 92 patients agreed to answer the questionnaire. Data regarding chemotherapy regimen were available for 77 of the 92 patients who answered the questionnaire. Menopause symptoms were much more prevalent in patients undergoing high vs moderate and low-risk chemotherapy protocol. (51.4% vs. 27.3% and 16.7%, respectively; p < 0.05). Spontaneous pregnancy rates were also significantly lower in the high-risk compared with the low-risk gonadotoxicity regimen group (32.0% vs. 58.3% and 87.5%, respectively; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients scheduled for aggressive cancer treatment have significantly higher rates of menopause symptoms and more than double the risk of struggling to conceive spontaneously. Improving prediction of future reproductive outcomes according to treatment protocol and counseling in early stages of cancer diagnosis and treatment may contribute to a tailored fertility related consultation among cancer survivors.