bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Chronic Total Occlusion in Single Coronary Arteries
Authors: Choi Jah Yeon , Rha Seung-Woon , Choi Byoung Geol , Choi Se Yeon , Byun Jae Kyeong , Jang Won Young , Kim Woohyeun , Na Jin Oh , Choi Cheol Ung , Kim Eung Ju , Park Chang Gyu , Seo Hong Seog 
Published: June 2021

We retrospectively compared the results of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and optimal medical therapy (OMT) for chronic total occlusion (CTO) in single coronary arteries to determine whether outcomes depend on the artery involved.
From January 2004 through November 2015, a total of 731 patients were treated at our center for CTO in the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) (234 patients, 32%), left circumflex coronary artery (LCx) (184, 25.2%), or right coronary artery (RCA) (313, 42.8%). We further classified patients by treatment (PCI or OMT) and compared the cumulative incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and the composite of total death or myocardial infarction, as well as change in left ventricular ejection fraction from baseline.
The 5-year cumulative incidence of MACE was similar between the treatment groups regardless of target vessel. The 5-year cumulative incidence of the composite of total death or myocardial infarction was significantly lower after PCI than after OMT or failed PCI in the LCx (2.6% vs 11.5%; P=0.020; log-rank) and RCA (5.8% vs 17.2%; P=0.002) groups, but not in the LAD group. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis indicated that PCI independently predicted a lower incidence of the composite of total death or myocardial infarction in the LCx group (hazard ratio [HR]=0.184; 95% CI, 0.0035–0.972; P=0.046) and the RCA group (HR=0.316; 95% CI, 0.119–0.839; P=0.021).
The artery involved does not appear to affect clinical outcomes of successful PCI for single-vessel CTO. Further investigation in a randomized clinical trial is warranted.
Intrinsic scaling method for doubly nonlinear parabolic equations and its application
Authors: Misawa Masashi , Nakamura Kenta 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
In this article, we consider a fast diffusive type doubly nonlinear parabolic equation, called 𝑝-Sobolev type flows, and devise a new intrinsic scaling method to transform the prototype doubly nonlinear equation to the 𝑝-Sobolev type flows.
As an application, we show the global existence and regularity for the 𝑝-Sobolev type flows with large data.
Does the Strength of Incentives Matter for Elected Officials? A Look at Tax Collectors
Authors: Bagchi Sutirtha 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
In Pennsylvania local property taxes are collected by elected officials, known as tax collectors, whose compensation varies widely in both structure and level across municipalities. This paper analyses the existence of a pay-performance relationship for these officials. Using data on the percentage of property taxes that are actually collected at the municipal level, the paper finds that as the compensation tax collectors receive goes up, they collect more in taxes. This relationship is however true only for collectors who are compensated on a commission basis and not for collectors compensated on the basis of a flat salary.
Acute and repeated dose 60-day oral toxicity assessment of chemically characterized Berberis hispanica Boiss. and Reut in Wistar rats
Authors: El Fakir Loubna , Bourhia Mohammed , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , Alzahrani Abdulhakeem , Ullah Riaz , Ezzeldin Essam , Mostafa Gamal A. , Bari Ahmed , Alaoui Tajelmolk , Gmouh Said , Benbacer Laila , Zaid Abdelhamid 
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Berberis hispanica Boiss. & Reut (B. hispanica) belongs to the family Berberidaceae, which is currently used in traditional medicines. This article aimed to study the phytochemical composition and acute and subacute toxicity of B. hispanica extract in rats. The phytochemical composition of B. hispanica extract was characterized using GC-MS. The acute toxicity was investigated in vivo via the oral administration of single doses including 400, 800, 1,000, 1,200, and 1,400 mg/kg for 14 days. The subchronic toxicity was studied through oral administration of 400 mg/kg for 60 days. The findings of the phytochemical analysis of B. hispanica extract showed the presence of various phytochemical compounds. Acute toxicity results revealed serious clinical symptoms and mortalities in rats treated with 800 mg/kg up to a maximum of 1,400 mg/kg. With acute toxicity, subchronic toxicity results showed also serious signs of toxicity including biochemical and histological alterations in animals treated with 1,400 mg/kg. B. hispanica extract revealed to be toxic in rats orally treated under both subacute (>400 mg/kg) and subchronic toxicity conditions (400 mg/kg). The outcome of this study serves the society as it provides toxicological evidence of B. hispanica used in alternative medicines
Consumption of Ashtanga Ghrita (clarified cow butter added with herb extracts) improves cognitive dysfunction induced by scopolamine in rats via regulation of acetylcholinesterase activity and oxidative stress
Authors: Sharma Vineet , Firdaus Zeba , Rai Himanshu , Nayak Prasanta Kumar , Singh Tryambak Deo , Gautam Dev Nath Singh 
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Ashtanga Ghrita (AG), an Indian traditional formulation, has been used to promote neuropharmacological activities. AG is made up of clarified cow butter (ghee) and eight different herbs.

Methods
To test whether scopolamine (SCP)-induced dementia and brain oxidative stress can be counteracted by AG, rats were separated into five groups (n=6/group): group one control, group two SCP (1 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) treated and group three to five were co-treated with different doses of AG (1.25, 2.5 and 5 g/kg b.w., orally) and SCP. After the treatment regimen, behavioral (Y-maze test) and brain biochemical changes were measured in all groups.

Results
Microbial load and heavy metals were found within permissible limits. Results from attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy demonstrated the complexation/interaction of herbal phytoconstituents with the functional groups of Ghrita. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of AG exhibited the occurrence of flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides, steroids, triterpenes, tannins, and amino acids. Findings of the experimental study exhibited that AG significantly protected the rats from SCP-induced behavioral dysfunction and brain biochemical alterations.

Conclusions
This study demonstrates that AG protects the brain from SCP-induced dementia by promoting brain antioxidant activity and thus could be a promising drug for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease.
Extraction of road boundary from MLS data using laser scanner ground trajectory
Authors: Sui Lichun , Zhu Jianfeng , Zhong Mianqing , Wang Xue , Kang Junmei 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Various means of extracting road boundary from mobile laser scanning data based on vehicle trajectories have been investigated. Independent of positioning and navigation data, this study estimated the scanner ground track from the spatial distribution of the point cloud as an indicator of road location. We defined a typical edge block consisting of multiple continuous upward fluctuating points by abrupt changes in elevation, upward slope, and road horizontal slope. Subsequently, such edge blocks were searched for on both sides of the estimated track. A pseudo-mileage spacing map was constructed to reflect the variation in spacing between the track and edge blocks over distance, within which road boundary points were detected using a simple linear tracking model. Experimental results demonstrate that the ground trajectory of the extracted scanner forms a smooth and continuous string just on the road; this can serve as the basis for defining edge block and road boundary tracking algorithms. The defined edge block has been experimentally verified as highly accurate and strongly noise resistant, while the boundary tracking algorithm is simple, fast, and independent of the road boundary model used. The correct detection rate of the road boundary in two experimental data is more than 99.2%.
Impact of high-intensity ultrasound on the physicochemical and functional properties of a protein isolate from passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) seeds
Authors: Espinosa-Murillo Natalia del Carmen , Ulloa José Armando , Urías-Silvas Judith Esmeralda , Rosas-Ulloa Petra , Ramírez-Ramírez José Carmen , Gutiérrez-Leyva Ranferi , Ulloa-Rangel Blanca Estela 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
A protein isolate from passion fruit seeds (PFSPI) obtained by alkaline extraction and isoelectric precipitation was treated with sonication for 15 and 30 min at 40 kHz to evaluate its impact on the physicochemical and functional properties. The PFSPI had a purity of 96.21% protein, with albumins being the main fraction (75.66%). Ultrasound increased the bulk density (ρ) of PFSPI by 13.3% and the formation a more porous structure by a greater separation between particles. Protein solubility of PFSPI in the range of pH 2–12 sonicated for 15 and 30 min, increased on average 5.21 and 9.86%, respectively, in comparison with the control. PFSPI foaming properties were influenced by pH and sonication time, achieving up to 577%, while the minimum gelling concentration was reduced from 4 to 2% at pH 7. Therefore, sonication treatment improved some functional properties of PFSPI for its potential use as a food ingredient.
Clinical significance of serum gonadotropin and androgen levels among Egyptian overweight/obese pubertal girls
Authors: El-Masry Sahar A. , Mahmoud Rehab A. , Ahmed Hanaa H. , Al-Tohamy Muhammad , Abdel Latif Hend M. , Afify Mahmoud A.S. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Evaluate the association between overweight/obesity with serum gonadotropin and androgen levels in Egyptian pubertal girls.

Methods
A case-control study carried out in “Obesity Clinic” of “Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolism Pediatric Unit (DEMPU)”, Pediatric Hospital, Cairo University. It included 40 overweight and obese girls and 40 age-matching normal weight (control) ones, aged 12–18 years. Anthropometric assessment (weight, height and hip and waist circumferences) was done, and waist/hip and BMI were calculated. Laboratory investigations: lipid profile, serum gonadotropin (LH, FSH), androgen (free and total testosterone), estradiol, insulin, and FBG were quantified, while insulin resistance (IR) was calculated.

Results
Hypogonadotropins (FSH and LH) and hyperandrogenaemia (total and free testosterone) were significantly prominent among obese girls. Correlation between gonadotropin, androgen and all of the studied variables, for the three studied groups (obese, overweight and control) revealed constant relations. Gonadotropin and androgens showed opposing correlations. Gonadotropin had significant negative correlations with the anthropometric parameters of obesity (BMI, waist, and W/H ratio), insulin, insulin resistance and lipid profile (triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL), whereas androgens had significant positive ones. In addition, gonadotropin showed significant positive correlations with estradiol and HDL, while androgens showed significant negative ones.

Conclusions
Overweight/obesity had no effect on the correlations between gonadotropin and androgen on one side, with the anthropometric measurements and laboratory investigations on the other one. Alterations in androgen levels occur at earlier ages than gonadotropin, among both overweight and obese girls.
Can we improve our ability to interpret category II fetal heart rate tracings using additional clinical parameters?
Authors: Yagur Yael , Weitzner Omer , Biron-Shental Tal , Hornik-Lurie Tzipi , Bookstein Peretz Shiran , Tzur Yehuda , Shechter Maor Gil 
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Objectives
This study examined predictive factors, in addition to Category II Fetal Herat Rate (FHR) monitoring that might imply fetal acidosis and risk of asphyxia.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study compared three groups of patients with Category II FHR monitoring indicating need for imminent delivery. Groups were divided based on fetal cord blood pH: pH≤7.0, 7.0<pH<7.2 and pH≥7.2. Demographics, medical history, delivery data and early neonatal outcomes were reviewed.

Results
The cohort included 417 women. Nine (2.2%) had cord pH≤7.0, 105 (25.2%) pH 7.0 to 7.2 and 303 (72.6%) ad pH≥7.2. Background characteristics, pregnancy follow-up and intrauterine fetal evaluation prior to delivery were similar in all groups. As expected, more patients in the low pH group had cesarean section (55.6%), than vaginal delivery or vacuum extraction (p=0.02). Five-minute Apgar scores were similar in all groups.

Conclusions
This retrospective study did not detect a specific parameter that could help predict the prognosis of fetal acidosis and risk of asphyxia. As we only included patients with a Category II tracing that was worrisome enough to lead to imminent delivery, it is reasonable to believe that this is due to patient selection, meaning that when the Category II FHR results in decision for prompt delivery, there is no added value in additional clinical characteristics. The evaluation should be expanded to all patients with Category II tracing for better interpretation tools for Category II FHR monitors, as well as a larger study population.
Probing electron transport in plasmonic molecular junctions with two-photon luminescence spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Liu Danjun , Ren Qun , Panoiu Nicolae C. , Lin Li , Ye Jian , Huang Yang , Liu Shao-Ding , Leung Chi Wah , Lei Dangyuan 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Plasmonic core–molecule–shell (CMS) nanojunctions provide a versatile platform for studying electron transport through conductive molecules under light excitation. In general, the impact of electron transport on the near-field response of CMS nanojunctions is more prominent than on the far-field property. In this work, we use two-photon luminescence (TPL) spectroscopy to probe the effect of electron transport on the plasmonic properties of gold CMS nanojunctions. Theoretical calculations show that the TPL response of such nanojunctions is closely related to the near-field enhancement inside the metal regions, and can be strongly affected by the electron transport through the embedded molecules. TPL excitation spectroscopy results for three CMS nanojunctions (0.7, 0.9 and 1.5 nm junction widths) reveal no perceivable contribution from their low-energy plasmon modes. This observation can be well explained by a quantum-corrected model, assuming significant conductance for the molecular layers and thus efficient charge transport through the junctions. Furthermore, we explore the charge transport mechanism by investigating the junction width dependent TPL intensity under a given excitation wavelength. Our study contributes to the field of molecular electronic plasmonics through opening up a new avenue for studying quantum charge transport in molecular junctions by non-linear optical spectroscopy.
Chemical and morphological characterization and pulping of Casuarina equisetifolia
Authors: Sarkar Akash Mamon , Jahan M Sarwar , Nayeem Jannatun , Arafat Kazi M Yasin , Rahman M Mostafizur , Popy Razia Sultana , Shofiul Islam Molla Jamal AHM , Quaiyyum M. Abdul 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Bangladesh is very much successful in coastal afforestation programmes, which protects from frequent cyclones. Casuarina equisetifolia has showed a climate resilient and promising species. No study has been done on industrial application of C. equisetifolia in Bangladesh. In this study, C. equisetifolia was characterized in terms of chemical, morphological and anatomical properties. It is characterized with higher α-cellulose, similar hemicelluloses and lignin as compared to other hardwood species grown in Bangladesh. The C. equisetifolia lignin contained mainly of syringyl unit followed by guaiacyl unit. The fiber of C. equisetifolia was shorter in length with very thick cell wall and narrow lumen, consequently the wood density and runkel ratio were very high (2.89). The C. equisetifolia was also fractionated by formic acid (FA) at atmospheric pressure to pulp, dissolved lignin and hemicelluloses. Pulp yield was 50 % with kappa number of 40 at the conditions of 3 h treatment with 90 % FA followed by 2 h peroxyformic acid treatment. But in the kraft process, C. equisetifolia produced pulp yield of 44 % with kappa number 17. Both pulps showed good bleachability. The papermaking properties were in acceptable range. Finally, it can be said that C. equisetifolia is promising species for pulping.
A return to the past? The Spanish as the First Foreign Language policy in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Hoyte-West Antony 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Situated close to the coast of Venezuela, the small twin-island nation of Trinidad & Tobago is geographically South American, but culturally Caribbean. Despite colonisation by various European powers, years of British rule and the ensuing dominance of English have meant that the country’s rich ethnic and cultural heritage is currently not paralleled by equivalent linguistic diversity. Building on the country’s natural position as a bridge between the English and Spanish-speaking worlds, the government launched the Spanish as the First Foreign Language (SAFFL) policy in 2005, with the aim to enhance trade links with Latin America through increased use of Spanish in the education system, civil service, and wider society. After outlining the historical and sociocultural background underpinning the SAFFL policy, this study examines the initiative’s implementation and surveys its impact, seeking to evaluate the policy’s effectiveness as a whole.
Effects of reverse cold rolling on the microstructure, texture and mechanical properties of AA1100 aluminium alloys
Authors: Rivero Oswaldo , Pico Diego , Castruita Laura G , García-Pastor Francisco , Unfried Jimy 
Published: June 2021

In this work the microstructure, texture and mechanical properties during different stages of reverse cold rolling (RCR) process on aluminium alloy AA1100-H14 were analysed. Microstructure was observed using optical and electron scanning microscopy. Texture was analysed using X-ray diffraction (macrotexture) and electron back-scattering diffraction (microtexture) techniques. Tensile test and microhardness measurements were carried out. Results showed that a high deformation using RCR was obtained in samples of annealed state leading to maximum values of tensile strength and hardness, along with a reduction of ductility. Intensity of -fibres decreased producing unstable textures {112} <110> while microstructure exhibited refinement of grain, with enlarged morphology.
Preventing COVID-19 Transmission in Education Settings
Authors: Kaiser Sunitha V. , Watson Annalisa , Dogan Basak , Karmur Akash , Warren Kristen , Wang Phoebe , Camano Sosa Melisa , Olarte Apryl , Dorsey Sherrice , Su Maria , Brown Lillian , Sachdev Darpun , Bardach Naomi S. 
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVES
In fall 2020, community hubs opened in San Francisco, California, to support vulnerable groups of students in remote learning. Our objectives were to (1) describe adherence to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mitigation policies in these urban, low-income educational settings; (2) assess associations between policy adherence and in-hub COVID-19 transmission; and (3) identify barriers to and facilitators of adherence.

METHODS
We conducted a mixed-methods study from November 2020 to February 2021. We obtained COVID-19 case data from the San Francisco Department of Public Health, conducted field observations to observe adherence to COVID-19 mitigation policies, and surveyed hub leaders about barriers to and facilitators of adherence. We summarized quantitative data using descriptive statistics and qualitative data using thematic content analysis.

RESULTS
A total of 1738 children were enrolled in 85 hubs (39% Hispanic, 29% Black). We observed 54 hubs (n = 1175 observations of children and 295 observations of adults). There was high community-based COVID-19 incidence (2.9–41.2 cases per 100 000 residents per day), with 36 cases in hubs and only 1 case of hub-based transmission (adult to adult). Sixty-seven percent of children and 99% of adults were masked. Fifty-five percent of children and 48% of adults were distanced ≥6 ft. Facilitators of mitigation policies included the following: for masking, reminders, adequate supplies, and “unmasking zones”; for distancing, reminders and distanced seating.

CONCLUSIONS
We directly observed COVID-19 mitigation in educational settings, and we found variable adherence. However, with promotion of multiple policies, there was minimal COVID-19 transmission (despite high community incidence). We detail potential strategies for increasing adherence to COVID-19 mitigation.
Assessment of seasonal variation of the bioactive oleuropein in Olea europaea L. leaves cultivated in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alqarni Mohammed Hamed , Salkini Mohamad Ayman , Alam Prawez , Alanazi Mazen Talal , Abdel-Kader Maged Saad , El Sohafy Samah M. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Plants secondary metabolites undergoes qualitative and quantitative variation due to environmental and growth factors. It is a crucial factor to select the proper time for collection of medicinal plants to assure maximum content of active components reflected as maximum efficacy. Olive leaves (Olea europaea L.) are known traditionally for their antidiabetic effect. The secoiridoid glycoside oleuropein is the main active component of Olive leaves responsible for the biological activity. The current study was conducted to monitor the seasonal variation of oleuropein in Olives leaves collected from the same location. To achieve this goal a validated HPLC method following the ICH guidelines was established. Separation was conducted using RP18 column and a mobile phase consisted of ultrapure water containing 20% acetonitrile and 1% acetic acid. Detection was performed at 254 nm with 1 mL/min flow rate. The method was simple, linear, accurate, precise, specific and robust. The analyses revealed considerable variations in the level of oleuropein throughout the year. This variation cannot be explained by temperature variation during the year. Two points of high levels of oleuropein were detected prior to flowering stage and ripening of the fruits. The levels of growth regulators most likely is responsible for the increased production of oleuropein. It is recommended that leaves intended for medicinal use to be collected during the fruiting stage prior to fruit ripening.