bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Research of an Optical Device Based on a Anisotropic Epsilon-Near-Zero Metamaterial
Authors: Wang zhibin , Cheng qiufan , Li xin , Li zhiquan , Meng shuhan 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
In this work, a novel design of an electro-tunable narrow channel based on an anisotropic epsilon-near-zero (AENZ) metamaterial is presented. The ENZ condition can be flexibly tuned by an applied gate voltage. This permittivity-tunable channel is composed of alternating layers of graphene and nanoglass with a thickness of 3nm. Additionally, this channel is utilized in a dual output light modulator to expand its application. Numerical analysis results show that the maximum transmittance of incident light can reach 96.7%, and the extinction ratio (ER) of the device is 14.8dB when the gate voltage is added to 4.96V at the near-infrared wavelength based on the finite element method (FEM). This ultracompact optical device may open a new realm in highly integrated photonic circuits, especially on the nano-chips.
Comparison of Clinical Performance and Subjective Outcomes Between Two Diffractive Trifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) and One Monofocal IOL in Bilateral Cataract Surgery
Authors: Imburgia Aurelio , Gaudenzi Francesco , Mularoni Kira , Mussoni Gloria , Mularoni Alessandro 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Purpose: To compare clinical outcomes and subjective experience after bilateral implantation of two diffractive trifocal and one monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). Methods: Fourty-eight patients were allocated to receive bilateral implantation of the RayOne Trifocal IOL (Rayner), the AcrySof IQ PanOptix IOL (Alcon), or the AcrySof IQ SN60WF IOL (Alcon). At 1-month, 3-month, and 12-month follow-up visits, the tested outcomes were monocular and binocular uncorrected and corrected distance, intermediate at 70 cm, and near at 30 cm visual acuities, subjective refractive outcomes, defocus curves, contrast sensitivity and ocular aberrometry. Subjective patient satisfaction in terms of visual disturbance and spectacle independence was also evaluated. Results: Each group comprised 32 eyes (16 patients). Refractive outcomes of RayOne and PanOptix IOLs were comparable. Both trifocal IOLs demonstrated superior visual acuity to the AcrySof monofocal IOL at near and intermediate ranges and along the defocus curves at all points other than at 0.0 D. The patient satisfaction results were comparable between the RayOne and PanOptix trifocal IOL groups. Conclusion: Both trifocals performed similarly providing good visual outcomes at all distances, demonstrating superior visual acuity compared to the monofocal IOL. Patients implanted with these trifocal IOLs reported similar levels of quality of vision and satisfaction. The RayOne trifocal and PanOptix IOLs are a valuable alternative for patients wishing to seek spectacle independence and low visual disturbances when undergoing cataract surgery.
Sarcopenia, Obesity, and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Among the Elder Population in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Chun-Yung , Lin Ming-Hsun , Kuo Chih-Chun , Lu Chieh-Hua , Wu Der-Min , Tsai Ming-Kai , Chu Nain-Feng 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Sarcopenia and obesity have become important public health and clinical issues worldwide, especially in an aging society like Taiwan. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiometabolic risk factors among the different weight status and grip strength status among elder individuals in Taiwan.Methods: We administered a series of community-based health surveys among the elder population in Chiayi County, Taiwan, from 2017 to 2019. Anthropometric characteristics, handgrip strength, and cardiometabolic risk profiles were measured using standard methods. History of chronic diseases was also asked. The questionnaires, including questions regarding any history of chronic diseases, were administered to the subjects under the assistance of a research technician.Results: This study recruited 3739 subjects (1600 males and 2139 females). The non-obese group had lower blood glucose (BG) levels compared to the obese group (100.3 ± 32.2 mg/dl vs 109.1 ± 34.3 mg/dl for the male subjects; 102.8 ± 32.1 mg/dl vs. 112.5 ± 40.3 mg/dl for the female subjects). The grip strength was negatively associated with BG in both sexes (β = −0.357, p < 0.001 for the male subjects male and β = −0.385, p < 0.05 for the female subjects). Relationship between the grip strength and the risk of cardiometabolic disease showed that for every 1 kg increase in the grip strength, there was a 4.1% and 4.5% decrease in the risk for developing diabetes in male and female subjects, respectively (OR = 0.959, 95% CI = 0.940–0.979 for males and OR = 0.955, 95% CI = 0.932–0.978 for females).Conclusions: A higher handgrip strength is associated with a lower BG level and lower risk for developing diabetes mellitus among elder population in Taiwan. Health promotion studies to increase muscle mass along with early rehabilitation programs should focus on the obese and sarcopenic population to prevent cardiometabolic comorbidities.
Who Would Benefit from Nasointestinal tube in Small Bowel Obstruction?—A Matched Case-Control Study
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Jun-rong , Chen Shuai , Hou Ping , Chen Qing-feng , Weng Zong-qi , Shang-guan Xin-chang , Lin Bing-qiang , Chen Xianqiang 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Nasointestinal tubes (NITs) have been increasingly used in patients with small bowel obstruction (SBO); However, severe adverse events (SAEs) of NITs might threaten the lives of patients. The indications of NITs need to be identified. This study was designed to explore the indications for the insertion of NITs in patients with SBO and to suggest the optimal strategies for individuals based on the outcomes of SAEs.Methods: After propensity score matching, 68 pairs were included (Success group and failure group). The occurrence of SAEs and the clinical parameters were compared between the SAE group and the non-SAE group. Independent risk factors were evaluated among the subgroups. A novel scoring system was established to detect the subgroups that would benefit from NITs insertion.Results: Successful implementation of NITs could avoid hypochloremia (p=0.010), SAEs (p=0.001), pneumonia (p=0.006). SAEs occurred in 13 of 136 (9.6%) patients who accepted NITs insertion treatment. Risk factors for SAEs included tumors (p=0.002), reduced BMI (p=0.048), reduced hemoglobin (p=0.001), abnormal activated partial thromboplastin time (p=0.015) and elevated white blood cells (p=0.002). A novel risk scoring system consists of hemoglobin before NITs insertion (95% CI: 0.685, 0.893) and bowel obstruction symptoms relieved after NITs insertion (95% CI: 0.575, 0.900) had the highest area under curve (AUC) for predicting the occurrence of SAEs. We divided the risk score system into 3 grades, with the increasing grades, the rates of SAEs surged from 1.3% (1/74) to (6/11) 54.5%.Conclusion: NITs successfully insertion could avoid SAEs occurrence in SBO conservative treatment. SBO patients without anemia and could be relieved after NITs insertion could be the potential benefit group for this therapy.
Epidemiological Features and Intra-operative Pattern of Gastrointestinal Tract Injury: a Single Center, Descriptive Study.
Authors: Bananzadeh Ali Mohammed , Borazjani Roham , fard Hossein Abdolrahimzadeh , Paydar Shahram 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Delayed diagnosis of gastrointestinal tract injury (GITI) could lead to terrify results and increase morbidity and mortality. Therefore, surgeons should be well-trained regarding the pattern and features of GITIs. In the recent study, we aimed to describe the epidemiological features and intra-operative characteristics of all patients sustaining GITIs.Methods: A 2-year retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in the only referral trauma center in the south of Iran, from June 2018 to September 2020. A well-formed search was conducted within the database of our center to find patients with GITIs. Demographic data, on-arrival vital signs, and the outcomes were extracted from the patients' medical records and our center's database. In addition, intraoperative features of injuries were extracted from the operation note.Result: Totally, 247 patients were detected 142 (57.5%) had blunt abdominal trauma. The most common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle accidents (116 patients, 46.9%), followed by stabbing (21.9%) among all populations. Of note, patients following blunt injuries were significantly older [38.22 (16.62)] than those with penetrating insults, had longer hospital length of stay (both P-values <0.001), and had significantly higher mortality rate (P-value= 0.001).The most frequent isolated injury following a blunt trauma was small bowel (S.B) (66.9%), colon (21.0%), and duodenum (7%), respectively. However, in penetrating injury, S.B (26.7%), colon (21.9%), and stomach (13.3%) were the three most frequent injured sites. Liver injury was the most common associated injury following blunt (58.1%) and penetrating (48.1%) trauma Conclusion: Our study has shown that GITIs are not as uncommon as previously thought. Therefore, all physicians should always search for and consider GITIs in patients sustaining abdominal trauma to avoid patients' morbidity and mortality.
Cholinergic signalling influences the expression of immune checkpoint inhibitors, PD-L1 and PD-L2, in human colorectal cancer tissues and cell lines
Authors: Kuol Nyanbol , Godlewski Janusz , Kmiec Zbigniew , Fraser Sarah , Apostolopoulos Vasso , NURGALI KULMIRA 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background

Cancer cells express immunosuppressive molecules, such as programmed death ligands (PD-L)1 and PD-L2, enabling evasion from the host's immune system. Cancer cells synthesize and secrete acetylcholine (ACh), acting as an autocrine or paracrine hormone to promote their proliferation, differentiation, and migration.
Methods

We correlated the expression PD-L1, PD-L2, cholinergic muscarinic receptor 3 (M3R), alpha 7 nicotinic receptor (α7nAChR), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues with the stage of disease, gender, age, risk, and patient survival. The effects of a muscarinic receptor blocker, atropine, and a selective M3R blocker, 4-DAMP, on the expression of immunosuppressive and cholinergic markers were evaluated in human CRC (LIM-2405, HT-29) and intestinal epithelial (T4056) cells.
Results

Increased expression of PD-L1, M3R and ChAT at stages III-IV was associated with a high risk of CRC and poor survival outcomes independent of patients' gender and age. α7nAChR and PD-L2 were not changed at any CRC stages. Atropine and 4-DAMP suppressed proliferation and migration of human CRC and T4056 cells, induced apoptosis, decreased PD-L1, PD-L2 and M3R expression in CRC cells via inhibition of EGFR and phosphorylation of ERK and STAT3.
Conclusions

The expression of immunosuppressive and cholinergic markers may increase the risk of recurrence of CRC. These markers might be used in determining prognosis and treatment regimens for CRC patients. Blocking cholinergic signalling may be a potential therapeutic for CRC through anti-proliferation and anti-migration via inhibition of EGFR and phosphorylation of ERK and STAT3. These effects allow the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells.
Analysis on the Levels of Hope and Influencing Factors of Infertile Women with First-time and Repeated IVF-ET Cycle
Authors: Ni Ying , Huang Limin , Tong Chenye , Qian Wen , Fang Qiong 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Purpose: To explore the hope level and influencing factors of infertile women with first-time and repeated in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET).Methods: Patients were divided into First (first-time) and Repeat (≥2 cycles) groups, then questionnaire survey was conducted. The questionnaire included demographic information, Herth hope index (HHI) scale, Locke-Wallace short marital-adjustment test scale and social support rating scale. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the associated influencing factors with hope level.Results: A total of 298 IVF-ET patients were recruited in the study, including 150 (50.3%) in the first cycle and 148(49.7%) in the repeated cycle. The HHI score of the repeated cycle was significantly lower than that of the first cycle (34.4 ± 3.5 vs. 37.5± 3.7, P<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that repeated IVF-ET and age was independently negatively correlated with HHI, with a standardized coefficient β of -0.895 and -0.223, both P＜0.001. While high education level (P=0.002), high monthly income(P=0.020), high degree of short marital-adjustment test(P＜0.001) and social support rating(P＜0.001) were independently positively correlated with HHI.Conclusion: The infertile women with repeated IVF-ET have a low hope level. Maintaining a good marriage adjustment, establishing a good social support and relationship network, may effectively improve their hope level.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Chemotherapy Response Score as prognostic markers in ovarian cancer patients treated with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Liontos Michalis , Andrikopoulou Angeliki , Koutsoukos Konstantinos , Markellos Christos , Skafida Efthymia , Fiste Oraianthi , Kaparelou Maria , Thomakos Nikolaos , Haidopoulos Dimitrios , Rodolakis Alexandros , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Zagouri Flora 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
BackgroundNeoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by interval debulking surgery (IDS) is the recommended approach in patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). However, most patients eventually relapse despite the initial high response rate to chemotherapy. Chemotherapy response score (CRS) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) have been identified as potential biomarkers of platinum resistance and disease prognosis. We retrospectively evaluated 132 patients with stage IIIc or IV ovarian/fallopian tube/primary peritoneal cancer who had received NACT followed by IDS from 01/01/2003 to 31/12/2018. CRS was assessed on omental specimens collected from IDS according to ICCR guidelines. ResultsMedian age was 64.57 years (SD: 9.72; range 39.2 - 87.1). Most ovarian tumors were serous epithelial (90.9%; 120/132). An elevated NLR (defined as > 3) was observed in 72% (95/132) of patients in contrast with 28% (37/132) of patients characterized by low NLR status. Median PFS (mPFS) and median overall survival (mOS) were 13.05 months (95% CI: 11.42-14.67)) and 34.69 months (95% CI: 23.26 - 46.12) respectively. In univariate analysis, CRS3 score was significantly associated with prolonged mPFS (CRS1/2: 12.79 months vs CRS3: 17.7 months; P= 0.008). CRS score was not associated with mOS (P=0.876). High NLR was not significantly associated with mPFS (P=0.128), however it was significantly associated with poor mOS (P=0.012). In multivariate analysis, only performance of surgery maintained its statistical significance with both PFS (P=0.001) and OS (P=0.008).ConclusionNLR could serve as a useful predictor of OS but not PFS in ovarian cancer patients receiving NACT. In accordance with our previous study, CRS score at omentum was found to be associated with PFS but not OS in ovarian cancer patients treated with NACT and IDS.
Reactive Zinc Extraction in MRDC Column; Case Study by Mathematical Modelling and Applying the Droplet Size Distribution with Forward Mixing Approach
Authors: Shakib Benyamin , Torkaman Rezvan , Torab-Mostaedi Meisam , Saremi Mojtaba , Asadollahzadeh Mehdi 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
In this survey, the reactive mass transfer data are determined for zinc extraction from chloride solution using D2EHPA in the MRDC extraction column. The numerical analysis for evaluating the column performance is applied to describe mass balance equations. Four mathematical models (backflow, forward mixing, plug flow, and axial dispersion) are investigated to compute the mass transfer coefficients of the dispersed phase. The solvent extraction experiments showed that the optimum zinc transport efficiency in rotor speed of 410 rpm in this column is equal to 98.85% and 99.85 for extraction and stripping stages, respectively. The model's achievement is compared with the solvent extraction data and a significant validity is obtained by coupling the forward mixing approach. The mathematical modeling expresses that the coefficients of axial dispersion and backflow based on the continuous phase increase by an increase in the rotor speed and inlet continuous phase rate. While these coefficients reduce at a higher inlet dispersed phase rate. The FMM method is preferred to predict the reactive mass transfer rate in the MRDC column due to the lowest relative deviation. The experimental study and mathematical modeling in this report provide beneficial information about the metallurgical industry to design solvent extraction equipment.
A Combination Approach of Pseudotime Analysis And Mathematical Modeling For Understanding The Drug-Resistant Mechanisms
Authors: Magi Shigeyuki , Ki Sewon , Ukai Masao , Domínguez-Hüttinger Elisa , Naito Atsuhiko , Suzuki Yutaka , Okada Mariko 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Cancer cells acquire drug resistance through the following nonresistant, pre-resistant, and resistant stages. Although the molecular mechanism of drug resistance is well investigated, the process of drug resistance acquisition remains largely unknown. Here we elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the process of drug resistance acquisition by sequential analysis of gene expression patterns in tamoxifen-treated breast cancer cells. Single-cell RNA-sequencing indicates that tamoxifen-resistant cells can be subgrouped into two, one showing altered gene expression related to metabolic regulation. The other showed high expression levels of adhesion-related molecules and histone-modifying enzymes. Pseudotime analysis showed a cell transition trajectory to the two resistant subgroups that stem from a shared pre-resistant state. An ordinary differential equation model based on the trajectory fitted well with the experimental results of cell growth. Based on the established model, it was predicted and experimentally validated that inhibition of transition to both resistant subtypes would prevent the appearance of tamoxifen resistance.
Comparing Porous Tantalum Fusion Implants and Iliac Crest Bone Grafts for Spondylodesis of Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures
Authors: Jordan Martin , Jansen Hendrik , Meffert Rainer , Heintel Timo 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare two different techniques of performing one-level spondylodesis for thoracolumbar burst fractures using either an autologous iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) or a porous tantalum fusion implant (PTFI).Methods: In a prospective nonrandomized study, 44 patients (20 women, 24 men; average age 43.1 ± 13.2 years) suffering from severe thoracolumbar burst fractures were treated with combined anterior-posterior stabilization. An ICBG was used in 21 cases, and a PTFI was used in the other 23 cases. A two-year clinical and radiographic follow-up was carried out.Results: There were no statistically significant differences in age, sex, localization/classification of the fracture, or visual analog scale (VAS) before injury between the two groups. All 44 patients were followed up for an average period of 533 days (range 173 - 1567). The sagittal spinal profile was restored by an average of 11.1° (ICBG) vs. 14.3° (PTFI) (monosegmental Cobb angle). Loss of correction until the last follow-up tended to be higher in the patients treated with ICBG than in those treated with PTFI (mean: 2.8° vs. 1.6°). Furthermore, significantly better restoration of the sagittal profile was obtained with the PTFI than with the iliac bone graft at the long-term follow-up (mean: ICBG 7.8°, PTFI 12.3°; p < 0,005).Conclusion: Short-segment posterior instrumentation combined with anterior one-level spondylodesis using either an ICBG or a PTFI resulted in sufficient correction of posttraumatic segmental kyphosis. PTFI might be a good alternative for autologous bone grafting and prevent donor site morbidities.
Understanding Fatigue in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Authors: Ahn Jong Hyeon , Song Joomee , Lee Dong Yeong , Youn Jinyoung , Cho Jin Whan 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Fatigue is a common and disabling non-motor symptom (NMS) of Parkinson’s disease (PD); however, it has been poorly understood in patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). We investigated the association between fatigue, clinical features, and other NMS in patients with probable PSP.Methods: In 72 probable PSP patients, fatigue was investigated using the PD fatigue scale (PFS). Further, all patients were evaluated using the PSP rating scale (PSPRS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), PD Sleep Scale (PDSS), NMS scale (NMSS), PD Questionnaire-39 summary index (PDQ-39 SI), and Scale for Outcomes in PD-Autonomic (SCOPA-AUT). Results: The prevalence of fatigue was 38.9% (28/72) in patients with PSP. Logistic regression analysis showed that depression (BDI) was the factor associated with fatigue. We divided the patients into primary (fatigue without depression, n =16), secondary (fatigue with depression, n = 12), and non-fatigue groups. There were no differences in age, sex, disease duration, and PSPRS, PDSS, MMSE, and FAB scores among the three groups. The primary fatigue group had higher scores in PDQ-39 SI compared to the non-fatigue group. The secondary fatigue group showed higher scores in NMSS, PDQ-39 SI, and SCOPA-AUT compared to the non-fatigue group. PFS was positively correlated with NMSS and PDQ-39 SI and SCOPA-AUT.Conclusions: Fatigue is common in patients with PSP and is associated with the NMS and the quality of life in these patients. The present study provides meaningful insight into fatigue in patients with PSP.