bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High‐efficiency mechanochemical synthesis of Strontium carbonate nanopowder from Celestite
Authors: Dayani Nastaran , AmirArjmand Ali , Nouri‐Khezrabad Mohsen , Hasani Saeed 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIn this study, the conversion of Celestite to SrCO3 was studied by wet mechanochemical synthesis in a high‐energy ball mill and treatment with Na2CO3. For this purpose, solid strontium carbonate and soluble Na2SO4 were obtained after wet milling of Celestite powder and sodium carbonate. The solid phase was washed with water at room temperature by filter pressing. X‐Ray diffraction patterns showed that the SrCO3 nanopowder was synthesized and conversion boosted with increasing the milling time up to 8 hours Also, Rietveld refinement analysis was used to calculate the fraction of SrCO3 as well as structural properties of synthesized samples. It was found that initial Celestite could be converted to strontium carbonate with a purity more than 98% using high‐energy milling without simultaneous heating. The optimum milling time was determined as 4 hours resulting in formation of nanopowders with an average particle size around 90 nm. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE‐SEM), clearly showed the nanoscale structure of the synthesized powders.
Usefulness of automated fragmented red blood cell percentage in the diagnosis of paediatric haemolytic uraemic syndrome
Authors: Govindarajan Srinivasavaradan , Bhatia Prateek , Dawman Lesa , Tiewsoh Karalanglin 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIntroductionPresence of schistocytes in peripheral blood smear supporting haemolysis is important for diagnosis and decision‐making in paediatric haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS). High observer dependency and requirement of expertise for peripheral smear evaluation propels us to think of other modalities to overcome these issues. We envisage that newer techniques like automated fragmented red blood cell percentage (FRC %), whose role has been described in transplant associated HUS and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, can serve the purpose.MethodsTwenty‐eight children with HUS after excluding secondary causes were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were analysed for FRC% at admission, using SYSMEX XN‐1000 (Japan) haematology analyser, and simultaneously, schistocytes in peripheral smear were reported by a single expert haematopathologist.ResultsMedian age was 56 months ranging from 2 to 140 months. FRC% was elevated in 85.8% (n‐24/28) with a mean of 4.56 ± 3.1%. FRC% had a sensitivity of 95.4% (C.I: 77.16% to 99.88%) in children who had FRC% >1.49% with an accuracy of 85.71% (C.I: 67.33% to 95.97%). However, specificity was only 50% (C.I: 11.81% to 88.19%) with a positive likelihood ratio of 1.91. Receiver‐operator curve showed an AUC value of 0.841.ConclusionWe suggest automated FRC% as a rapid and highly sensitive index for screening of paediatric HUS; however, a peripheral blood film examination is a must in cases with count >2% to avoid false positives as the index has low specificity.
Epidemiology of respiratory viruses in patients with severe acute respiratory infections and influenza‐like illness in Suriname
Authors: Grunberg Meritha , Sno Rachel , Adhin Malti R. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundInfluenza has been well studied in developed countries with temperate climates, in contrast to low‐ and middle‐income (LMIC) countries, thus hampering the effort to attain representative global data. Furthermore, data on non‐influenza respiratory infections are also limited. Insight in viral respiratory infections in Suriname, a tropical LMIC in South America, would contribute to improved local preventive measures and a better global understanding of respiratory viruses.MethodsFrom May 2016 through April 2018, all patients (n = 1096) enrolled in the national severe acute respiratory infection and influenza‐like illness surveillance were screened for the presence of 10 respiratory viruses with singleplex RT‐PCR.ResultsThe overall viral‐positive detection rate was 45.3%, specified as RSV (19.4%), influenza (15.5%), hMPV (4.9%), AdV (4.6%), and parainfluenza (3.8%). Co‐infections were detected in 6.2% of the positive cases. Lower overall positivity was observed in the SARI vs ILI surveillance and influenza prevalence was higher in outpatients (45.0% vs 6.7%), while RSV exhibited the reverse (4.8% vs 23.8%). Respiratory infections in general were more common in children than in adults (54.4% vs 29.5%), although children were significantly less affected by influenza (11.5% vs 22.7%). None of the respiratory viruses displayed a clear seasonal pattern, and viral interference was observed between RSV and influenza.ConclusionsThe comprehensive information presented for Suriname, including first data on non‐influenza respiratory viruses, displayed distinct differences between the viruses, in seasonality, within age groups and between SARI/ILI, accentuating the need, especially for tropical LMIC countries to continue ongoing surveillance and accumulate local data.
Clinical impact of rapid influenza PCR in the adult emergency department on patient management, ED length of stay, and nosocomial infection rate
Authors: Peaper David R. , Branson Brittany , Parwani Vivek , Ulrich Andrew , Shapiro Marc J. , Clemons Crystal , Campbell Melissa , Owen Maureen , Martinello Richard A. , Landry Marie L. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundSeasonal influenza causes significant morbidity and mortality and incurs large economic costs. Influenza like illness is a common presenting concern to Emergency Departments (ED), and optimizing the diagnosis of influenza in the ED has the potential to positively affect patient management and outcomes. Therapeutic guidelines have been established to identify which patients most likely will benefit from anti‐viral therapy.ObjectivesWe assessed the impact of rapid influenza PCR testing of ED patients on laboratory result generation and patient management across two influenza seasons.MethodsA pre‐post study was performed following a multifaceted clinical redesign including the implementation of rapid influenza PCR at three diverse EDs comparing the 2016‐2017 and 2017‐2018 influenza seasons. Testing parameters including turn‐around‐time and diagnostic efficiency were measured along with rates of bed transfers, hospital‐acquired (HA) influenza, and ED length of stay (LOS).ResultsMore testing of discharged patients was performed in the post‐intervention period, but influenza rates were the same. Identification of influenza‐positive patients was significantly faster, and there was faster and more appropriate prescription of anti‐influenza medication. There were no differences in bed transfer rates or HA influenza, but ED LOS was reduced by 74 minutes following clinical redesign.ConclusionsMultifaceted clinical redesign to optimize ED workflow incorporating rapid influenza PCR testing can be successfully deployed across different ED environments. Adoption of rapid influenza PCR can streamline testing and improve antiviral stewardship and ED workflow including reducing LOS. Further study is needed to determine if other outcomes including bed transfers and rates of HA influenza can be affected by improved testing practices.
A novel zipper device versus sutures for wound closure after surgery: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xie Cheng‐Xin , Yu Cheng‐Qiang , Wang Wei , Wang Cheng‐Long , Yin Dong 
Published: September 2020

AbstractWe performed an updated meta‐analysis to compare the efficacy of the zipper device and sutures for wound closure after surgery. A computerised literature search was performed for published trials in PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Two reviewers independently scrutinised the trials, extracted data, and assessed the quality of trials. The primary outcome was surgical site infections (SSI). The secondary outcomes were wound dehiscence, total wound complications, wound closure time, and scar score. Statistical analysis was performed in the Stata 12.0. Of the 130 citations, eight trials (1207 participants) met eligibility criteria and were included. The zipper device achieved a lower SSI rate (RR: 0.63, [95% CI: 0.41‐0.96, P = 0.032]), a shorter wound closure time (SMD: −8.53 [95% CI: −11.93 to −5.13, P = 0.000]) and a better scar score (SMD: 0.42 [95% CI: 0.22‐0.62, P = 0.000]) than sutures. No significant difference was shown in the incidence of wound dehiscence and total wound complications. Therefore, the zipper device provides the advantages of anti‐infection, time‐saving, and cosmesis for wound closure.
Testing the segmentation effect of multimedia learning in a biological system
Authors: Soicher Raechel N. , Becker‐Blease Kathryn A. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractMultimedia instruction, the combination of pictures and words to produce meaningful learning, involves attention, selection, organization, and integration of new information with previously learned information. Because there is a large, theory‐based literature supporting the effectiveness of multimedia instruction, we proposed that multimedia instruction could be leveraged to address issues in health communication. The cognitive theory of multimedia learning outlines techniques to improve meaningful learning when the processing load of essential information exceeds the cognitive capacity of the learner (Mayer, 2014). Specifically, segmentation, or presentation of the material in a learner paced fashion, results in deeper learning of the material than continuous presentation (Mayer & Chandler, 2001). We proposed a conceptual replication of the segmentation effect with multimedia materials relevant in a health communication context. We hypothesized that transfer of information from a multimedia presentation about kidney function would be improved in a segmented, versus continuous, condition. Additionally, we hypothesized that participants' perceived cognitive load during the learning task would be lower in the segmented, versus continuous, presentation condition. We were unable to replicate either of these advantages for the use of segmentation with health‐related materials.
Molecular mechanism for impaired suppressive function of Tregs in autoimmune diseases: A summary of cell‐intrinsic and cell‐extrinsic factors
Authors: Yang Luting , Wang Gang , Xia Haibin 
Published: September 2020

AbstractRegulatory T (Treg) cells are responsible for maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing autoimmunity. In immune homeostasis condition, Tregs exert their suppressive function through inhibiting the proliferation of effector T cells. In response to environmental signals, Tregs display phenotypic heterogeneity and altered stability, which endows their suppressive function in a context‐dependent manner. Compelling evidence indicates deficiency of Treg suppressive function is related to the immunopathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases. Consequently, it is vital to further our understanding of the molecular mechanism accounting for the regulation of Treg suppressive functions. In this review, we outline the current knowledge that highlights how cell‐intrinsic factors, such as inflammatory cytokines, transcription factors, signalling pathways, post‐translational modification (PTM), miRNAs, protein and protein complex, and cell‐extrinsic factors orchestrate the suppressive function of Tregs. Improved understanding of the molecular mechanism related to the suppressive functional property of Tregs should provide new insights into autoimmunity and disease pathogenesis, which offers opportunity for identifying new therapeutic targets for Treg‐related autoimmune diseases and cancers.
Pioglitazone alleviates cisplatin nephrotoxicity by suppressing mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis via SIRT1/p53 signalling
Authors: Zhang Jiong , Zou Yang , Cheng‐Jing Yan , Xiang‐Heng Lu , Wang Xue‐Peng , Yu Xiao‐Jia , Li Gui‐sen , Wang Jia 
Published: September 2020

AbstractPioglitazone (PIO) attenuates cisplatin nephrotoxicity whereas the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Apoptosis is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and SIRT1 activation can decrease cell apoptosis in cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Therefore, we explored whether the protective effect of PIO in cisplatin nephrotoxicity is achieved by suppressing mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis through SIRT1/p53 signalling regulation. Cell viability, apoptosis, survival rate, renal pathology and function were examined. Moreover, we also analysed the expression of SIRT1, Acetyl‐p53, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and apoptosis‐related protein in vivo and in vitro. Pioglitazone treatment significantly increased cell viability, promoted SIRT1‐p53 interaction, upregulated Bcl‐2 expression, activated SIRT1 and elevated mitochondrial ATP synthesis after cisplatin treatment. However, PIO decreased the generation of ROS, opening of mPTP, dissipation of MMP and translocation of cytochrome c after cisplatin treatment. Pioglitazone also reduced the activation of caspase‐3 and caspase‐9, lowered the ratio of Bax/Bcl‐2, attenuated kidney pathological damage and dysfunction, down‐regulated the expression of Acetyl‐p53, PUMA‐α and Bax and abated cell apoptosis after cisplatin treatment. The SIRT1 inhibitor, EX527, clearly reversed the protective effects of PIO. These results implied PIO attenuated cisplatin nephrotoxicity by suppressing mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis through regulating SIRT1/p53 signalling.
A new maximum size for the family Nomeidae and the third record of a longfin cigarfish, Cubiceps paradoxus (Stromateoidei: Nomeidae) from California, USA
Authors: Frable Benjamin W. , Mccrea Merit H. , Love Milton S. , Craig Matthew T. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractWe report the largest specimen from the stromateoid family Nomeidae. The specimen, measuring 1283 mm total length unpreserved, was caught on hook and line from shore in Port Hueneme, California, USA in June 2019. Despite scavenging damage, the specimen was identified as a longfin cigarfish, Cubiceps paradoxus, using morphological characters and molecular techniques. This is the third record of C. paradoxus from California. We also provide an account of a previously unreported C. paradoxus collected off the US‐Mexico Border in 1999 that was examined but not preserved.
Impact of liver‐stiffness measurement on hepatocellular carcinoma development in chronic hepatitis C patients treated with direct‐acting antivirals: A systematic review and time‐to‐event meta‐analysis
Authors: You Myung‐Won , Kim Kyung Won , Shim Jae‐Jun , Pyo Junhee 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackground and AimPatients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treated with direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) are still at risk for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) even after achieving sustained virologic response (SVR). Liver‐stiffness measurement (LSM) on imaging has been investigated as a predictor of HCC occurrence.ObjectivesTo provide systematic summary of the predictive value of LSM in predicting HCC occurrence in HCV patients treated with DAA.MethodsA comprehensive literature search of the PubMed–MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was performed to identify studies that evaluated the predictive value of LSM in CHC patients treated with DAAs. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) comparing HCC occurrence between patients with positive and negative results on LSM was calculated for all studies and various subgroups. Subgroup analyses and meta‐regression were performed.ResultsA review of 135 candidate articles identified eight eligible articles with a total of 3398patients for qualitative review and meta‐analysis. The pooled HR for HCC occurrence determined by LSM was 3.43 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.63–7.19) with heterogeneity (I2 = 81.87%, P < 0.001), thus indicating that LSM might be helpful for predicting HCC occurrence. In subgroup analyses, pooled HRs were different according to the study design (2.29; [95% CI, 0.96–5.45] for retrospective studies; 4.61 [95% CI, 2.44–8.71] for prospective studies), study population (4.00 [95% CI, 2.00–7.99] for CHC; 2.64 [0.99–7.00] for CHC with liver cirrhosis) and LSM parameter (3.17 [95% CI, 1.35–7.41] for baseline LSM; 4.19 [95% CI, 1.89–9.29] for others). In multivariate meta‐regression, study design was the only influencing factor for pooled HR for HCC occurrence (P < 0.05).ConclusionsConsistent evidence demonstrated the predictive value of LSM for HCC occurrence in CHC patients treated with DAA. The significant influencing factor for risk of HCC occurrence indicated by LSM was study design.
Influence of the pandemic dissemination of COVID‐19 on facial rejuvenation: A survey of Twitter
Authors: Pang Ran , Wei Zhiru , Liu Wenhui , Chen Zong , Cheng Xu , Zhang Han , Li Guangshuai , Liu Linbo 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundWith the pandemic dissemination of COVID‐19, attitude and sentiment surrounding facial rejuvenation have evolved rapidly.AimsThe purpose of this study was to understanding the impact of pandemic on the attitude of people toward facial skin rejuvenation.MethodsTwitter data related to facial rejuvenation were collected from January 1, 2020, to April 30, 2020. Sentiment analysis, frequency analysis, and word cloud were performed to analyze the data. Statistical analysis included two‐tailed t tests and chi‐square tests.ResultsIn the post‐declaration, the number of tweets about facial rejuvenation increased significantly, and the search volume in Google Trends decreased. Negative public emotions increased, but positive emotions still dominate. The words frequency of “discounts” and “purchase” decreased. The dominant words in word cloud were “Botox,” “facelift,” “hyaluronic,” and “skin.”ConclusionThe public has a positive attitude toward facial rejuvenation during the pandemic. In particular, minimally invasive procedures dominate the mainstream, such as “Botox,” “Hyaluronic acid,” and “PRP.” The practitioners could understand the change of the public interest in facial rejuvenation in time and decide what to focus on.
FROM THE CLASSICAL ECONOMISTS TO EMPIRICISTS: A REVIEW OF THE TERMS OF TRADE CONTROVERSY
Authors: Chakraborty Shouvik , Sarkar Prabirjit 
Published: September 2020

AbstractContrary to the classical position, the works of Prebisch and Singer in the middle of the last century launched the controversial hypothesis of a long‐term decline in the terms of trade of primary products vis‐á‐vis manufactured goods and a corresponding decline in the terms of trade of developing countries vis‐á‐vis advanced ones. The present study traces the origin and evolution of the hypothesis and reviews the related statistical debate. It also reviews the theoretical support for the Prebisch–Singer hypothesis. It is an exercise in the history of economic thought to trace how the controversies surrounding the terms of trade have evolved over time, specifically noting that, with the development of the field of econometrics, the central thesis of the argument got lost somewhere in the realm of hi‐tech statistical debates.
Impact of clinical practice guidelines for vacuum‐assisted delivery on maternal and neonatal outcomes in Japan: A single‐center observational study
Authors: Egami Naoki , Muta Ryuji , Anami Ai , Koga Hiroshi 
Published: September 2020

AbstractAimPractice guidelines for vacuum‐assisted delivery in Japan were revised in 2014 to improve clinical safety. We aimed to determine the success rates of vacuum delivery before and after the release of the revised guidelines.MethodsThis retrospective observational study included singleton deliveries at term gestation. Success rate of vacuum delivery, duration of extraction, number of tractions and maternal and neonatal injuries were compared between 2011–2014 and 2015–2019.ResultsVacuum extraction was attempted in 249 (15%) of 1657 deliveries. Duration of extraction was shorter in 2015–2019 (median, 3.0 min; interquartile range [IQR], 1.0–5.8 min) than in 2011–2014 (median, 4.0 min; IQR, 2.0–6.5 min; P = 0.0045). No significant differences were seen in success of vacuum extraction (98%), prolonged (>20 min) duration of extraction (1.5%) and repeated (>5 pulls) tractions (3.1%) in vacuum deliveries during 2011–2014, compared to success of vacuum extraction (94%), prolonged duration of extraction (1.6%) and repeated tractions (1.1%) in those during 2015–2019. Likewise, no significant differences were identified in maternal or neonatal injuries.ConclusionSuccessful vacuum‐assisted deliveries and shortened duration of extraction were still confirmed after guideline revision. However, because of consistent safe practice with vacuum delivery from before the revision, improvements in maternal and neonatal injuries were not observed.
Concentration profiles and safety of topically applied betulinic acid and NVX‐207 in eight healthy horses—A randomized, blinded, placebo‐controlled, crossover pilot study
Authors: Weber Lisa A. , Puff Christina , Kalbitz Jutta , Kietzmann Manfred , Feige Karsten , Bosse Konstanze , Rohn Karl , Cavalleri Jessika‐M. V. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe naturally occurring betulinic acid (BA) and its derivative NVX‐207 show anticancer effects against equine malignant melanoma (EMM) cells and a potent permeation in isolated equine skin in vitro. The aim of the study was to determine the in vivo concentration profiles of BA and NVX‐207 in equine skin and assess the compounds’ local and systemic tolerability with the intent of developing a topical therapy against EMM. Eight horses were treated percutaneously in a crossover design with 1% BA, 1% NVX‐207 or a placebo in a respective vehicle twice a day for seven consecutive days with a seven‐day washout period between each formulation. Horses were treated at the neck and underneath the tail. Concentration profiles of the compounds were assessed by high‐performance liquid chromatography in the cervical skin. Clinical and histopathological examinations and blood analyses were performed. Higher concentrations of NVX‐207 were found in the skin compared to BA. Good systemic tolerability and only mild local adverse effects were observed in all three groups. This study substantiates the topical application of BA and NVX‐207 in further clinical trials with horses suffering from EMM; however, penetration and permeation of the compounds may be altered in skin affected by tumors.
Pharmacokinetics and effects on clinical and physiological parameters following a single bolus dose of propofol in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Muta Kanako , Miyabe‐Nishiwaki Takako , Masui Kenichi , Yajima Isao , Iizuka Tomoya , Kaneko Akihisa , Nishimura Ryohei 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe objectives of this study were (a) to establish a population pharmacokinetic model and (b) to investigate the clinical and physiological effects of a single bolus dose of propofol in common marmosets. In Study 1, pharmacokinetic analysis was performed in six marmosets under sevoflurane anaesthesia. 8 mg/kg of propofol was administrated at a rate of 4 mg kg−1 min−1. Blood samples were collected 2, 5, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 or 180 min after starting propofol administration. Plasma concentration was measured, and population pharmacokinetic modelling was performed. A two‐compartment model was selected as the final model. The population pharmacokinetic parameters were as follows: V1 = 1.14 L, V2 = 77.6 L, CL1 = 0.00182 L/min, CL2 = 0.0461 L/min. In Study 2, clinical and physiological parameters were assessed and recorded every 2 min after 12 mg/kg of propofol was administrated at a rate of 4 mg kg−1 min−1. Immobilization was sustained for 5 min following propofol administration without apparent bradycardia. While combination of propofol and sevoflurane caused apnoea in Study 1, apnoea was not observed following single administration of propofol in Study 2. These data provide bases for further investigation on intravenous anaesthesia using propofol in common marmosets.