bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Cement Distribution in the Fractured Area for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures Through Biomechanical Effects Analysis Based on a Three Dimentional Lumbar Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Ye Lin-qiang , Liang De , Li Zhen , Weng Rui , Huang Xue-cheng , Feng Yong-hong , Zou Jian , Jiang Xiao-bing , Lu Guo-liang 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: While cement distributes sufficiently in the fractured area and relatively symmetrically around the fractured area, three types of cement mass location in the vertebral body are commonly seen when performing bipedicular percutaneous vertebral augmentation (PVA) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs), including anterolateral (AL), anteromedial (AM) and posterolateral (PL). However, little is known about differences of biomechanical behaviors among these three types of cement distribution so far. The present study aimed to investigate biomechanical effects of AL, AM and PL in the fractured area on OVCFs.Methods: Three dimentional finite element methods were utilized to construct OVCF model and simulate AL, AM and PL in the fractured area for OVCFs treated with PVA. Distributions and magnitudes of von Mises stress in cortical and cancellous bone and maximum displacement of the four models were compared.Results: Compared with the OVCF model, Distribution of von Mises stress in cortical bone was unchanged while that in cancellous bone was transferred to be concentrated symmetrically at cancellous bone surrounding cement after PVA. Maximum displacement and maximum von Mises stress in cortical bone in AL decreased the most significantly, while AM created the lowest maximum von Mises stress in cancellous bone.Conclusions: Cement distribution between AL and AM may balance stress in cortical and cancellous bone, better restoring vertebral strength, meanwhile, providing sufficient vertebral stability.
Reduced Brain Volume and White Matter Alterations in Shank3-Deficient Rats
Authors: Golden Carla Esther Meyer , Wang Victoria X , Harony-Nicolas Hala , Hof Patrick R. , Buxbaum Joseph 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Mutations and deletions in the SHANK3 synaptic gene cause the major neurodevelopmental features of Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS). The SHANK3 gene encodes a key structural component of excitatory synapses that is important for synaptogenesis. PMS is characterized by intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive deficits, physical dysmorphic features, sensory hyporeactivity, and alterations in the size of multiple brain regions. Clinical assessments and limited imaging studies have revealed a reduction in volume of multiple brain regions. They have also found white matter thinning and microstructural alterations to be persistent in patients with PMS. While many of these impairments have been replicated in mouse models of PMS, the brain structure of a rat model has not yet been studied. Methods: We assessed the brain structure of haploinsufficient and homozygous Shank3-deficient rats that model the behavioral deficits of PMS with magnetic resonance and diffusion tensor imaging, and compared their brain structure to wild type littermates.Results: Both gray and white matter structures were smaller in Shank3-deficient rats, leading to an overall reduction in brain size compared to wild type littermates. The largest region to be diminished in size was the neocortex. Some regions involved in sensory processing and white matter regions were also reduced in size. Lastly, the microstructure of two white matter tracts, the external capsule and fornix, was abnormal.Conclusions: Shank3-deficient rats replicate the reduced brain volume and altered white matter phenotypes present in individuals with PMS. Therefore, the brain regions that were altered represent potential cross-species structural biomarkers that warrant further study.
LOX-1 Mediates Inflammatory Activation of Microglial Cells Through the p38-MAPK/NF-κB Pathways Under Hypoxic-Ischemic Conditions
Authors: Itoh Masayuki , Aoki Yoshinori , Akamatsu Tomohisa , Oshima Takuya , Takahashi Naoto , Goto Yu-ichi , Oka Akira 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Microglial cells play an important role in the immune system in the brain. Activated microglial cells are not only injurious but also neuroprotective. We confirmed marked lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) expression in microglial cells in pathological lesions in the neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy model brain. LOX-1 is known to be an activator of cytokines and chemokines through intracellular pathways. Here, we investigated a novel role of LOX-1 in microglial cells under hypoxic and ischemic conditions. Methods: We isolated primary rat microglial cells from 3-day-old Sprague-Dawley rat brains and confirmed that the isolated cells showed more than 98% Iba-1 positive with immunocytochemistry. We performed oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) treatment of primary rat microglial cells as an in vitro model of nHIE. Then, we evaluated the expression levels of LOX-1, cytokines and chemokines with or without siRNA and inhibitors, compared with no OGD-treated cells. In addition, we analyzed reactive oxygen species and cell viability.Results: We found that defects in oxygen and nutrition induced LOX-1 expression and led to the production of inflammatory mediators, such as the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, the chemokines CCL2, CCL5 and CCL3 and reactive oxygen/nitrile species. Then, the LOX-1 signal transduction pathway was blocked by inhibitors, LOX-1 siRNA, the p38-MAPK inhibitor SB203580 and the NF-κB inhibitor BAY11-7082 suppressed the production of the inflammatory mediators. Moreover, we demonstrated that LOX-1 in microglial cells was autonomously overexpressed by positive feedback of the intracellular LOX-1 pathway. Conclusion: The hypoxic/ischemic conditions of microglial cells induced LOX-1 expression and activated immune system. We revealed one of the LOX-1 signaling pathways in microglia and provide a hint of a new treatment strategy for nHIE. It was speculated that Microglial cells are known to contribute to various neurological diseases. Hypoxic and ischemic brain injuries result in lifelong neurological and mental deficiency. LOX-1 and its related molecules or chemicals may be major therapeutic candidates.
Meaningful Measurements of Maneuvers: People With Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury ‘step Up’ to the Challenges of Altered Stability Requirements
Authors: Ochs Wendy Lee , Cornwell Tara , Woodward Jane , Gordon Keith Edward 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Many people with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) have the ability to maneuver while walking. However, neuromuscular impairments create challenges to maintain stability. How people with iSCI maintain stability during walking maneuvers is poorly understood. Thus, this study compares maneuver performance in varying external conditions between persons with and without iSCI to better understand maneuver stabilization strategies in people with iSCI. Methods: Participants with and without iSCI walked on a wide treadmill and were prompted to perform lateral maneuvers between bouts of straight walking. Lateral force fields applied to the participants’ center of mass amplified or damped the participants’ movements, thereby increasing the bandwidth of the study to capture behavior at varied levels of challenge to stability.Results: By examining metrics of stability, step width, and center of mass dynamics, distinct strategies emerged following iSCI. The minimum margin of stability (MOSmin) on each step during maneuvers indicated persons with iSCI generally adapted to amplified and damped force fields with increased stability compared to persons without iSCI, particularly using increased step width and reduced center of mass excursion on maneuver initiation. In the amplified field, however, persons with iSCI had a reduced MOSmin when terminating a maneuver, likely due to the challenge of the force field opposing the necessary lateral braking. Persons without iSCI were more likely to rely on or oppose the force field when appropriate for movement execution. Compared to persons with iSCI, they reduced their MOSmin to initiate maneuvers in the damped and amplified fields and increased their MOSmin to arrest maneuvers in the amplified field.Conclusions: The different force fields were successful in unpacking relatively subtle strategy differences between persons with and without iSCI. Specifically, persons with iSCI adopted increased step width and reduction in center of mass excursion to increase maneuver stability in the amplified field. The amplified field may provoke practice of stable and efficient initiation and arrest of walking maneuvers. Overall, this work allows better framing of the stability mechanisms used following iSCI to perform walking maneuvers.
“Maskandi Experience”: Exploring The Use of A Cultural Song for Community Engagement in Preparation for A Pilot Sterile Insect Technique Release Programme for Malaria Vector Control in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa 2019
Authors: Manana Pinky , Jewett Sara , Zikhali Jabulani , Dlamini Dumsani , Mabaso Nondumiso , Mlambo Zothile , Ngobese Roxanne , Munhenga Givemore 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background An assessment of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) as a complementary malaria vector control tool is at an advanced stage in South Africa. The technique involves the release of laboratory-reared sterilised male mosquitoes of the major malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis, raising social, ethical and regulatory concerns. Therefore, its implementation largely depends on community participation and acceptance. Against this background it is critical that robust and effective community strategies are developed. This study describes the development of a cultural song to engage the community and increase awareness on SIT and malaria control in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.Methods An exploratory concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted to get opinions about the effectiveness of a cultural song developed to engage communities and increase acceptability of the SIT technology. Two self-administered surveys (expert and community) were conducted. Additionally, more in depth opinions of the song and its effectiveness in conveying the intended information were investigated through three community dialogue sessions with community members in the study area. Results A total of 40 experts and 54 community members participated in the survey. Four themes were identified in relation to the appropriateness and effectiveness of the song, with a fifth theme focused on recommendations for adaptations. Overall, the song was well received with the audience finding it entertaining and informative. Responses to unstructured questions posed after the song showed an increase in the knowledge on malaria transmission and SIT technology. In particular, the explanation that male mosquitoes do not bite allayed anxiety and fears about the SIT technology.Conclusion The song was deemed both culturally appropriate and informative in engaging community members about the SIT technology. It proved useful in promoting health messages and conveying SIT technology as a complementary malaria vector control tool. With minor adaptations, the song has potential as an area-wide community engagement tool in areas targeted for sterile male releases.
Sex differences in viral entry protein expression, host responses to SARS-CoV-2, and in vitro responses to sex steroid hormone treatment in COVID-19
Authors: Sun Mengying , Shankar Rama , Ko Meehyun , Chang Christopher Daniel , Yeh Shan-Ju , Li Shilong , Liu Ke , Zhou Guoli , Xing Jing , VanVelsen Austin , VanVelsen Tyler , Paithankar Shreya , Feng Benjamin Y. , Young Krista , Strug Michael , Turco Lauren , Wang Zichen , Schadt Eric , Chen Rong , Li Xiaohong , Oskotsky Tomiko , Sirota Marina , Glicksberg Benjamin S. , Nadkarni Girish N. , Moeser Adam J. , Li Li , Kim Seungtaek , Zhou Jiayu , Chen Bin 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Epidemiological studies suggest that men exhibit a higher mortality rate to COVID-19 than women, yet the underlying biology is largely unknown. Here, we seek to delineate sex differences in the expression of entry genes ACE2 and TMPRSS2, host responses to SARS-CoV-2, and in vitro responses to sex steroid hormone treatment. Using over 220,000 human gene expression profiles covering a wide range of age, tissues, and diseases, we found that male samples show higher expression levels of ACE2 and TMPRSS2, especially in the older group (>60 years) and in the kidney. Analysis of 6,031 COVID-19 patients at Mount Sinai Health System revealed that men have significantly higher creatinine levels, an indicator of impaired kidney function. Further analysis of 782 COVID-19 patient gene expression profiles taken from upper airway and blood suggested men and women present profound expression differences in responses to SARS-CoV-2. Computational deconvolution analysis of these profiles revealed male COVID-19 patients have enriched kidney-specific mesangial cells in blood compared to healthy patients. Finally, we observed selective estrogen receptor modulators, but not other hormone drugs (agonists/antagonists of estrogen, androgen, and progesterone), could reduce SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro.
Efficiency Evaluation of BRICS’s National Innovation Systems based on Bias-corrected Network Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Alnafrah Ibrahim 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The very limited studies that tried to measure the efficiency of national innovation systems (NISs) in BRICS economies were limited to the assumption that the innovation process at national level consists of one stage only and got different and conflicting results. Therefore, this study endeavours to measure the efficiency of sub-processes within the BRICS’s NISs and identify where the system failure lies in each NIS.Bias-corrected network data envelopment analysis (DEA) is used to measure the efficiency of total NIS and the efficiency of the other sub-processes within the system: (1) Knowledge Production Process (KPP), and (2) Knowledge Commercialization Process (KCP).The results showed that NISs in BRICS economies suffer from low performance in commercializing their outputs of universities and research organizations. While, on the other hand, their performance in creating scientific and technical knowledge is good in comparison to other studied countries. We suggest that the reason behind this imbalance is the network system failure associated with weak institutions and high uncertainty in the economy.In this study, we argue that the problem in BRICS NISs is not a problem of resources, but it is a problem of system management and institutions.Some bridging policies are suggested to be adopted by BRICS economies to improve their innovation performance and overcome the system failure of weak links between universities and industry.
Safety of systemic anti-cancer treatment in oncology patients with non-severe COVID-19: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Marcke Cédric Van , Honoré Natasha , Elst Athénaïs van der , Beyaert Simon , Derouane Françoise , Dumont Caroline , Nana Frank Aboubakar , Baurain Jean-François , Borbath Ivan , Collard Philippe , Cornélis Frank , De Cuyper Astrid , Duhoux François , Filleul Bertrand , Galot Rachel , Gizzi Marco , Mazzeo Filomena , Pieters Thierry , Seront Emmanuel , Sinapi Isabelle , Eynde Marc Van den , Whenham Nicolas , Yombi Jean-Cyr , Scohy Anaïs , Maanen Aline Van , Machiels Jean-Pascal 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background The viral pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has disrupted cancer patient management around the world. Most reported data relate to incidence, risk factors, and outcome of severe COVID-19. The safety of systemic anti-cancer therapy in oncology patients with non-severe COVID-19 is unknown.Methods ONCOSARS-1 was a prospective, single-center, academic observational study. Adult patients with solid tumors treated in the oncology day unit with systemic anti-cancer therapy during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium were included. All patients (n=363) underwent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) serological testing after the peak of the pandemic in Belgium. Additionally, 141 of these patients also had a SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test during the pandemic. The main objective was to determine the safety of systemic cancer treatment, measured by the rate of adverse events according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients compared with SARS-CoV-2-negative patients.Results Twenty-two (6%) of the 363 eligible patients were positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR and/or serology. Of these, three required transient oxygen supplementation, but none required admission to the intensive care unit. Hematotoxicity was the only adverse event more frequently observed in SARS-CoV-2 -positive patients than in SARS-CoV-2-negative patients: 73% vs 35% (P<0.001). This association remained significant (odds ratio (OR) 4.1, P=0.009) even after adjusting for performance status and type of systemic treatment. Hematological adverse events led to more treatment delays for the SARS-CoV-2-positive group: 55% vs 20% (P<0.001). Median duration of treatment interruption was similar between the two groups: 14 and 11 days, respectively. Febrile neutropenia, infections unrelated to COVID-19, and bleeding events occurred at a low rate in the SARS-CoV-2-positive patients.Conclusion Systemic anti-cancer therapy appeared safe in ambulatory oncology patients treated during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were, however, more treatment delays in the SARS-CoV-2-positive population, mainly due to a higher rate of hematological adverse events.
Socio-economic inequalities in the association between alcohol use disorder and depressive disorder among Thai adults: a population-based study
Authors: Assanangkornchai Sawitri , Nontarak Jiraluck , Aekplakorn Wichai , Chariyalertsak Suwat , Kessomboon Pattapong , Taneepanichskul Surasak 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Previous evidence indicates significant associations between depressive disorders and alcohol use disorder (AUD) and their strong links with social conditions. This study aims to investigate the association between major depressive episode (MDE) and AUD across various socio-economic groups.Methods: We analysed data from the 2014 Thai National Health Examination Survey containing a random sample of 13,177 adults aged >20 years from the general population. The Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test was used to classify respondents into non-problem drinking (score 0-7), hazardous drinking (score 8-15), and harmful-dependent drinking (score 16-40). MDE was identified using questions based on the DSM-IV. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using multinomial logistic regression to determine the strength of associations between MDE as a predictor and AUD as an outcome variable across different socio-economic levels.Results: The prevalence of MDE, hazardous, and harmful-dependent drinking was 2.5%, 10.3%, and 1.9%, respectively. The association between MDE and AUD was modified by wealth index, education level and area of residence. AORs for the association between MDE and harmful-dependent drinking were high among those in the highest (AOR=8.68, 95% CI: 5.34, 14.11) and lowest (AOR=7.14, 95% CI: 3.71, 13.73) levels of wealth index but not significant among those in the middle level (AOR=1.78, 95% CI: 0.74, 4.25). Education had the strongest effect on the relationship between MDE and harmful-dependent drinking (AOR=16.0, 95% CI: 10.30, 24.90 among those completing secondary school or higher and AOR=1.44, 95% CI: 0.63, 3.33 among those completing primary school only). The association between MDE and harmful-dependent drinking was higher among people who lived in urban areas (AOR=8.50, 95% CI: 5.50, 13.13) compared to those living in rural areas (AOR=4.73, 95% CI: 3.31, 6.77).Conclusion: Socio-economic factors modify the association between alcohol use disorder and major depressive disorder among Thai people.
Protocol for the development and validation of a risk prediction model for stillbirths from 35 weeks gestation in Australia
Authors: Sexton Jessica , Coory Michael , Kumar Sailesh , Smith Gordon , Gordon Adrienne , Chambers Georgina , Pereira Gavin , Raynes-Greenow Camille , Hilder Lisa , Middleton Philippa , Bowman Anneka , Lieske Scott , Warrilow Kara , Morris Jonathan , Ellwood David , Flenady Vicki 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Despite advances in the care of women and their babies in the past century, an estimated 1.7 million babies are born still each year throughout the world. A robust method to estimate a pregnant woman’s individualized risk of late-pregnancy stillbirth is needed to inform decision-making around timing of birth to reduce the risk of stillbirth from 35 weeks gestation in Australia, a high-resource setting.Methods: This is a protocol for a cross-sectional study of all late-pregnancy births in Australia (2005-2015) from 35 weeks gestation including 5,188 stillbirths among 3.1 million births at an estimated rate of 1.7 stillbirths per 1000 births. A multivariable logistic regression model will be developed in line with current Transparent Reporting of a multivariable prediction model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis (TRIPOD) guidelines to estimate the gestation-specific probability of stillbirth with prediction intervals. Candidate predictors were identified from systematic reviews and clinical consultation and will be described through univariable regression analysis. To generate a final model, elimination by backward stepwise multivariable logistic regression will be performed. The model will be internally validated using bootstrapping with 1000 repetitions and externally validated using a temporally unique dataset. Overall model performance will be assessed with R2, calibration, and discrimination. Calibration will be reported using a calibration plot with 95% confidence intervals (α=0.05). Discrimination will be measured by the C-statistic and area underneath the receiver-operator curves. Clinical usefulness will be reported as positive and negative predictive values and a decision curve analysis will be considered.Discussion: A robust method to predict a pregnant woman’s individualized risk of late-pregnancy stillbirth is needed to inform timely, appropriate care to reduce stillbirth. Among existing prediction models designed for obstetric use, few have been subject to internal and external validation and many fail to meet recommended reporting standards. In developing a risk prediction model for late-gestation stillbirth with both providers and pregnant women in mind, we endeavor to develop a validated model for clinical use in Australia that meets current reporting standards.