bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the City Pilots Served by AB InBev Foundation’s Global Smart Drinking Goals Initiative
Authors: Simons-Rudolph Ashley , Lilliott-González Liz , Fisher Deborah A. , Ringwalt Christopher L. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has affected many aspects of global health, including efforts to curb harmful drinking. Very little is known about the effects of a prolonged disaster like this pandemic on alcohol consumption, misuse, and related harms, and on ongoing interventions designed to prevent or mitigate these harms. MethodsWe collected information from key informants in community coalitions in each of five City Pilots funded by the AB InBev Foundation that are implementing prevention and early intervention strategies to reduce harmful drinking. Key informants reported how the pandemic has affected alcohol sales and consumption in their communities, as well as alcohol-related harms such as interpersonal violence and drink driving. ResultsWe found that alcohol production has slowed and that sales of alcohol have uniformly decreased. However, the effects of local regulations on alcohol sales in on- and off-premise establishments have been uneven. Early reports suggest that home-based drinking has decreased during the pandemic, binge drinking is still problematic, and that while the prevalence of drink driving is greatly reduced, domestic violence has increased. We also report measures taken by the AB InBev Foundation to support the City Pilots’ efforts to combat the pandemic, which include transitioning in-person prevention strategies to online delivery where feasible, and the reorientation of the AB InBev Foundation’s Community Fund to support local efforts to combat the pandemic. ConclusionsWhile it presents considerable challenges for ongoing prevention efforts that depend on interpersonal contact, the Community Fund appeared to have a positive effect on building community coalitions, bringing new stakeholders to the table, and providing the opportunity for the coalitions to enhance their visibility and reputations in the communities they serve.
A fundamental shift in the melt processes of Arctic sea ice
Authors: Wilkinson Jeremy , Doble Martin , Valcic Lovro , Veyssiere Gaelle , Cole Sylvia , Rainville Luc , Lee Craig , Hargrove John , DiLeo Julia , Graber Hans 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
As the Arctic Ocean transitions into a seasonally ice-covered ocean, the processes that govern the sea ice melt cycle will undergo a fundamental shift. The summer melt cycle passes through several stages, such as snowmelt, meltpond formation and drainage, and basal melting; normally with surface melt processes occurring well before basal melt. Monitoring of atmospheric, sea ice and oceanographic properties from autonomous buoys deployed across the Beaufort Sea, combined with targeted satellite imagery, reveal a fundamental restructuring of these melt processes within the seasonal ice zone – where basal melt occurs before surface melt. We find this seemingly unremarkable change accelerates the basal melting of sea ice by ten-fold, as well as transforming the timing and flux of freshwater and heat into the upper-ocean. These processes play a pivotal role in determining upper-ocean stratification, and when combined with a modification of the under-ice light field, it could impact marine ecosystem function.
Perceptions&nbsp;and Behavioral Adoptions&nbsp;of the Preventive Strategies from Person-to-Person Transmission of COVID-19 Among the Public in China: An Online Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Zhu Xian , Gan Yong , Wu Bo , Gou Qinyong , Zheng Daikun , Liu Chenglu , Xu Chang , Tao Zhou , Xu Hong , Long Qian 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The strategies adopted to prevent spreading of COVID-19 are quarantine, social distancing and isolation of infected cases. This study investigates perceptions and behavioral adoptions of COVID-19 prevention strategies among the Chinese public and identified factors predicting individual health behavior.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey between 22 February and 5 March, 2020. We approached to urban residents aged over 18 years through snowball sampling method using the Chinese social media. The Health Belief Model was adopted to guide the analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to examine impacts of modifying factors (including demographic and socio-economic characteristics) and individual beliefs on individual health behavior.Results: of 5675 valid questionnaires, 95.8% of the respondents well understood the preventive measures from COVID-19 transmission, while 79.9% of the respondents adopted the behavior advised. 45.7% of the respondents perceived severity of the disease, 75.6% of the respondents perceived benefits of social constraints measures and 62.7% reported anxiety during the epidemic. After adjusting for modifying factors and individual beliefs, those who were female, had better income and good knowledge on preventive measures, perceived benefits on social constraint measures and did not feel anxiety were more likely to adopt behaviors advised.Conclusions: The Chinese public highly accepted and adopted behaviors advised to slow down the COVID-19 epidemic. People with low income or feeling anxiety were less likely to adopt the behavior advised. The policy support should target on the social vulnerable groups. The psychological support should be disseminated through different means, and the consultation should be provided to those who are in need.
Adverse events in cardiovascular disease patients taking clopidogrel: impact of CYP2C19 genotype polymorphisms
Authors: Liu Zegan , Hu Qian , Tang Li , Ma Junlong , Cai Jiangfan , Li Haiping , Zhang Che 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Clopidogrel combined with aspirin in antiplatelet therapy is the first-line clinical regimen for cardiovascular diseases. The CYP2C19 gene influences the absorption and metabolism of clopidogrel and its polymorphisms affect antiplatelet therapy drug efficacy, which may lead to adverse events including stent thrombosis and haemorrhage. The main objective of this study was to explore the impact of CYP2C19 polymorphisms on adverse events in cardiovascular disease patients.Methods:We recruited 350 patients taking clopidogrel and performed CYP2C19 genotype testing. Adverse event information was collected through telephone follow-up. According to CYP2C19 genotype results, patients were divided into three groups: poor metabolism (PM) group, extensive metabolism (EM) group and intermediate metabolism (IM) group. The number of adverse events was compared between the three groups using the chi-squared test and the onset time of adverse events was analysed using the log-rank test. The main factors affecting adverse events were analysed using binary logistic analysis.Results: In total, 326 patients were included in the analysis: 143 patients were in the EM group, 129 patients were in the IM group and 54 patients were in the PM group. In this cohort, 127 adverse events were noted, which occurred in 88 patients. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of adverse events between the EM group and PM group (P=0.185). The median survival times of adverse events in the EM, IM and PM groups were 112 days, 137.5 days and 169 days, respectively, with no significant differences between the three groups (P=0.8713).Conclusion:We found that CYP2C19 polymorphisms were not necessarily associated with adverse events in patients with cardiovascular diseases taking clopidogrel. Rather, the main factors influencing the occurrence of adverse events were concomitant diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidaemia.
Severe Vision Impairment and Blindness in Hospitalized Patients: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Harris Che , Wright Scott M 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Outcomes among hospitalized patients with severe vision impairment or blindness have not been extensively explored. This study sought to determine clinical and resource utilization outcomes in patients with severe vision impairment/blindness (SVI/B).Methods This was a retrospective study using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample for the year 2017, hospitalized adults with and without severe vision impairment/blindness were compared. Multiple logistic regression and linear analysis were used to evaluate mortality, disposition, length of stay, and hospital charges. Results: 30,420,907 adults were hospitalized, and among these 37,200 had SVI/B. Patients with SVI/B were older (mean age ± SEM: 66.4±0.24 vs. 57.9±0.09 years, p <0.01), less likely to be female (50% vs 57.7%, p <0.01), and more frequently insured by Medicare (75.7% vs 49.2%, p <0.01). Patients with SVI/B had more comorbidities (Charlson comorbidity score ≥ 3: 53.2% vs 27.8%, p <0.01). They also had a higher mortality rate (3.9% vs 2.2%; p<0.01). Those with SVI/B were less likely discharged home (adjusted Odds Ratio {aOR} =0.54, [Confidence Interval (CI) 0.51-0.58]; p <0.01). Hospital charges were not significantly different (adjusted Mean Difference {aMD} = $247 CI [-$2,474-2,929]; p=0.85) but length of stay was longer (aMD= 0.5 days CI [0.3-0.7]; p<0.01) for those with SVI/B.Conclusion: Patients admitted to American hospitals in 2017 who had severe vision impairment or blindness had worse clinical and greater resources utilization. Hospital-based providers should recognize this vulnerable patient population as being at risk for adverse outcomes during hospitalization and determine interventional strategies.
Physical Density Estimations of Single- and Dual-energy CT Using Material-based Forward Projection Algorithm
Authors: Li Kai-wen , FUjiwara Daiyu , Haga Akihiro , Liu Huisheng , Geng Li-Sheng 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of physical density prediction in single-energy CT (SECT) and dual-energy CT (DECT) by adapting a fully simulation-based method using a material-based forward projection algorithm (MBFPA). Methods: We used biological tissues referenced in ICRU Report 44 and tissue substitutes to prepare three different types of phantoms for calibrating the HU-to-density curves. Sinograms were first virtually generated by the MBFPA with four representative energy spectra (i.e. 80 kV, 100 kV, 120 kV, and 6 MV) and then reconstructed to form realistic CT images by adding statistical noise. The HU-to-density curves in each spectrum and their pairwise combinations were derived from the CT images. The accuracy of these curves was validated using the ICRP110 human phantoms.Results: The relative mean square errors (RMSEs) of the physical density by the HU-to-density curves calibrated with kV SECT nearly presented no phantom size dependence. The kV-kV DECT calibrated curves were also comparable with those from the kV SECT. The phantom size effect became notable when the MV X-ray beams were employed for both SECT and DECT due to beam hardening effects. The RMSEs were decreased using the biological tissue phantom.Conclusions: Simulation-based density prediction can be useful in the theoretical analysis of SECT and DECT calibrations. The results of this study indicated that the accuracy of SECT calibration is comparable with that of DECT using biological tissues. The size and shape of the calibration phantom could affect the accuracy, especially for MV CT calibrations.
Treatment of intracranial infection caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis with linezolid following poor outcome of vancomycin therapy: A case report and literature review
Authors: Lin Zhiqiang , Chen Sumei , Hong Limian , Wu Shuifa , Yu Xueping 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: To investigate the efficacy of linezolid in the treatment of intracranial infection caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (MRCoNS).Case presentation: The patient at our hospital was diagnosed with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) intracranial infection, which was resistant to oxacillin and sensitive to vancomycin (MIC = 2 µg/mL) and linezolid (MIC = 4 µg/mL). Vancomycin was replaced with linezolid after 36 days of treatment due to poor outcome, and the patient was eventually cured. Further, a total of 23 cases of intracranial MRSA/MRCoNS infections were reported, of which 1 case with MRSA had a vancomycin MIC = 1 µg/mL, while the remaining 22 cases had vancomycin MICs greater than 1 µg/mL, with MIC = 1.5 µg/mL in 1 case, MIC = 2 µg/mL in 19 cases and MIC = 4 µg/mL in 2 cases. The linezolid-containing regimen was used after drug susceptibility results or if the initial treatment failed, leading to recovery in 19 patients, microbial clearance in 3 patients (of which 2 patients died of comorbidities and 1 patient died of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection), and treatment failure in 1 case.Conclusion: The PK/PD parameter for evaluating the efficacy of vancomycin is AUC/MIC ≥ 400 (assuming a vancomycin MICBMD of 1 µg/mL), and trough concentration should not be used as a substitute for AUC/MIC. For optimal management, vancomycin dosing should be based on AUC-guided dosing and monitoring. When the vancomycin MIC of MRSA/MRCoNS is > 1 µg/mL, the target AUC/MIC cannot be achieved. In such cases, linezolid can be used with good therapeutic effects.
Examining a Co-Integration and Causality between Education and Economic Growth in India
Authors: Sarania Rahul 
Published: September 2020

Abstract

The study examines the empirical relationship between education expenditure, higher education and economic growth in the context of India using time series econometric analysis for the time period 1971-2015 based on Vector Autoregression (VAR) model and Johansen’s Cointegration procedure. The time series data were verified for the stationary properties by using Augmented Dickey Fuller and Phillips-Perron test techniques which showed the variables to be integrated of order one I(1). The Johansen co integration of trace and maximum Eigen value tests indicated the presence of one co-integrating relationship among the variables, that is, the existence of long run relationship among the variables under investigation. The Granger causality test results indicated a unidirectional causality that runs from government expenditure on education to economic growth and also the existence of unidirectional causality between higher education and economic growth that run from economic growth to higher education. The reverse causality did not hold in either cases. The error-correction mechanism gives evidence for the short-run dynamics. Impulse Response Function showed a sharp drop initially of GDP and then positive response of GDP to shock in education expenditure and higher education that appeal for productive investment in research and development and training with proper facilities and establishment of more educational institutions, particularly higher education institutions that will lead to higher economic growth of India.
SDF-1/CXCR4 Axis-mediated Migration of Systematically&nbsp;Transplanted&nbsp;Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Towards the Injured Spinal Cord in&nbsp;a&nbsp;Rat Model
Authors: Cai Sa , Yang Yi , Zhao Andong , Pan Yu 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to migrate to injured spinal cords and promote functional recovery when systemically transplanted into the traumatized spinal cord. However, the the mechanisms underlying their migration to spinal cords are not yet fully understoodMethods: In this study, we systemically transplanted GFP- and luciferase-expressing MSCs into the rat models of spinal cord injury and examined the role of the stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1)/CXCR4 axis in regulating the migration of transplanted MSCs to spinal cords.Results: After intravenous injection, MSCs migrated to the injured spinal cord where the expression of SDF-1 was increased. Spinal cord recruitment of MSCs was blocked by pre-incubation with an inhibitor of CXCR4. Their presence correlated with morphological and functional recovery. In vitro, SDF-1 or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from SCI rats promoted a dose-dependent migration of MSCs, which was blocked by an inhibitor of CXCR4 or an SDF-1 antibody.Conclusions: The study suggests that SDF-1/CXCR4 interactions recruit exogenous MSCs to injured spinal cord tissue and may enhance neural regeneration. Modulation of homing capacity may be instrumental in harnessing the therapeutic potential of MSCs.
A novel HDAC inhibitor suppresses extracellular vesicle VEGF-C-mediated lymphangiogenesis and pancreatic cancer early dissemination
Authors: Wang Chu-An , Li Chien-Feng , Huang Rho-Chi , Li Yo-Hua , Liou Jing-Ping , Tsai Shaw-Jenq 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive cancer characterized by early dissemination and poor drug response. Loss-of-function of dual specificity phosphatase 2 (DUSP2), a critical regulator of MAPKs signaling, is highly associated with cancer malignancies. Therefore, it may provide new therapeutic strategy if the actions of DUSP2 can be restored.
Methods

The tumor suppressor role of DUSP2 was demonstrated via DUSP2 re-expression in the orthotopic mouse model of pancreatic cancer and knockout of Dusp2 in the pancreas by transgenic mouse model. Immunohistochemical staining and histology analysis was performed to evaluate tumor development and progression. Bioinformatic analysis was utilized to identify potential drug which mimics DUSP2 re-expression. Pancreatic cancer cell survival, migration ability, and the expression and function of extracellular vesicle (EV) associated vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) was measured. The effect of the novel HDAC inhibitor on pancreatic cancer progression was evalulated by orthotopic mouse model.
Results

Forced expression of DUSP2 abrogated tumor formation and loss of Dusp2 facilitated Kras-driven PDAC formation. Increased HDAC1 expression was found in PDAC and inhibition of HDAC showed similar gene profile as Kras knockdown and DUSP2 re-expression. Treatment with B390 inhibited growth and migration abilities of PDAC cells, decreased EV-associated VEGF-C expression, and suppressed lymphatic endothelial cell proliferation. In vivo, B390 not only suppressed tumor growth by increasing tumor cell death, it also inhibited lymphangiogenesis and lymphovascular invasion.
Conclusions

Our data provide the proof-of-concept evidence to demonstrate the potential of using novel HDAC inhibitor in PDAC treatment which alleviates loss-of-DUSP2-mediated pathological processes.
Perception and Response of Religious Leaders in Precaution Transmission of COVID-19 Through Handling and Burial of Dead Bodies in Indonesia
Authors: Nurhayati  , Purnama Tri Bayu 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
One of the roles of religious leaders/ulama that can prevent the transmission of COVID-19 is education and socialization in the process of handling and burial of corpses. The varying practice on handling and burial of corpse in the community, as well as different perceptions of each cleric, are factors that hinder the implementation of the corpse handling and burial protocol with the COVID-19 procedure. This study aims to understand the differences in perceptions and responses of ulama in the process of handling and burial of dead bodies in Indonesia. This study interviewed 6 prominent ulama figures in each of the significant Islamic religious organizations in Indonesia as representatives of each practice of handling and burial of corpse. The case study research design with a structured interview guide was carried out by telephone in the COVID-19 pandemic. Data analysis was carried out with content analysis to classify variations in perception and response to the corpse handling and burial process with the COVID-19 procedure. All scholars interviewed in this study were men over 40 years of age and understand that the COVID-19 procedure in handling and burial of dead bodies can reduce the potential for disease transmission even though some clerical figures argue that there is a difference in opinion between ulama and the COVID-19 procedure. All scholars / religious leaders say that the handling and burial of the dead body using the COVID-19 protocol must be carried out by considering the possibility of disease transmission. However, some have adjusted the procedure to the religious values ​​held by the organization. Comprehensive socialization and coordination can reduce misperceptions and misinformation in the process of handling and burial for corpses with the COVID-19 procedure so that the carrying out of handling and burial of dead bodies can prevent new COVID-19 clusters in the community.
Binding mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein with human ACE2 receptor
Authors: Koirala Rajendra P , Thapa Bidhya , Khanal Shyam P , Powrel Jhulan , Adhikari Rajendra P , Adhikari Narayan P 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 virus interacts via C-terminal domain of spike protein to human cell receptor protein hACE2. Amino acid residues residing at the interface play vital role in binding of SARS-CoV-2 CTD to hACE2. The detailed atomic level inves- tigation of interactions at binding interface of SARS-CoV-2 CTD/hACE2 provides indispensable information on better understanding of location for drug target. In the present work, we have studied the dynamical behaviour of the complex by ana- lyzing the molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories. The major interacting residues of SARS-CoV-2 CTD and hACE2 have been identiﬁed by analyzing the non-bonded interactions such as hydrogen bondings, salt bridges, hydrophobic interactions, van der Waals interactions etc. Umbrella sampling method has been used to estimate the binding free energy for in-depth understanding of binding mechanism between virus protein and host receptor. The binding free energy diﬀerence, key residues at the interface, important atomic interactions and contact surface areas have been compared with the molecular complex of SARS-CoV and hACE2. Relatively larger contact surface area, more non-bonded interactions as well as greater binding free energy provide the evidence for favorable binding of SARS-CoV-2 with hACE2 receptor than SARS-CoV.