bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Structural and Surface Modifications by Varying Precursor Concentrations on Spray Deposition of Zno Thin Films
Authors: ES Rajalekshmi , Ferby V. Anslin , Shabu R 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Zinc Oxide thin films have been deposited on glass substrates using zinc acetate as starting precursor at different concentrations 0.05–0.3 M in steps of 0.05 M by spray pyrolysis method at the constant substrate temperature of 350º C. Lattice structure of the prepared ZnO films were characterized by X-Ray diffraction analysis (XRD). Diffraction pattern revealed hexagonal wurtzite structure with cell edges a = 3.2530 Å, c = 5.2092 Å and density 5.66 g/cm3, which is almost equal to the standard values a = 3.2556 Å, c = 5.2070 Å and 5.6525 g/cm3 (COD No: 96-900-4180). Structural parameters such as dislocation density, lattice stress, unit cell volume, number of crystallites per unit area have been calculated and its dependency with thickness was studied. As the film thickness increases, the crystallite size also increases. Through FTIR, chemical bonds and their stretching vibrations confirmed the metal-oxide phase formation. Scanning electron microscope images showed the formation of good quality film with regularly distributed spherical shaped grains. Roughness values of the films were attained from the Atomic force microscope images. In overall observations, precursor concentration has significant effect on film thickness which in turn modified the structural, optical and morphology properties of the prepared ZnO thin films.
New Challenges Towards the Ecological Management of Paliastomi Lake Will Significantly Improve the Local Environment With Far-Going Global Consequences
Authors: Abramia Grigol , Gverdtsiteli Leila , Eristavi Dimitri , Kalandadze Besik , Girgvliani Akaki , Weber Gero , Honecker Ulrich , Kubiniok Jochen , Golijashvili-Microbiologist Alexander , Japarashvili Nana 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The publication is addressing the problems of pollution from agricultural sources; municipal wastewater and industry in line with the bacterial pollution caused by migratory waterfowl of Paliastomi Lake that is an internationally recognized habitat, wintery and transit area of the birds and an important tourism site. It reviews: the current state of the environment of Paliastomi Lake at the moment of the chemical and microbiological research and mathematical simulation modeling of possible dissemination of polluting chemicals and bacterial pathogens; pollution by nutrient-rich water causing large blooms of algae and aquatic plants that in its turn leaves little oxygen for fish and other aquatic animals, resulting in the eutrophication followed by suffocation of aquatic life. According to the research provided, the publication recommends ongoing monitoring of not only the lake's inflowing waters, but also seasonal sources of bacterial pollution caused by migratory birds. According to monitoring, the integration of constructed wetlands, localized spraying of bacteriophage cocktails, and feeding the birds, who are potential carriers of pathogenic bacteria, with food supplemented with BCs will help limit bacterial contamination, improve the habitat for local and migratory waterfowl, and ensure the biosecurity of the area.
Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis with Natalizumab: Experiences from a Real-Life Cohort Over 15 Years
Authors: Auer Michael , Zinganell Anne , Hegen Harald , Bsteh Gabriel , Pauli Franziska Di , Berek Klaus , Fava Elena , Wurth Sebastian , Berger Thomas , Deisenhammer Florian 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
BackgroundNatalizumab (NTZ) has been used for treatment of highly active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). When stopping NTZ the risk of severe rebound phenomenon has to be considered. We aimed to investigate the use of NTZ in clinical routine and focused on identification of potential risk factors for disease reactivation after treatment discontinuation.MethodsAt the Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria, we identified all MS patients who were treated with NTZ and performed a retrospective analysis on therapeutic decision making, disease course before, during and after treatment with NTZ and on risk factors for disease reactivation after NTZ discontinuation.Results235 NTZ treated MS patients were included, of whom 105 had discontinued treatment. At NTZ start disease duration was 5.09 (IQR 2.09-10.57) years, average number of total relapses was 4 (IQR 3-6) and median EDSS 2.0 (range 0-6.5), whereby these values significantly decreased over time. Reduction of annualized relapse rate (ARR) on treatment was 93% and EDSS remained stable in 64%. In a multivariate regression model only conversion to secondary progressive MS (SPMS) on treatment was significantly associated with lower risk of disease reactivation after NTZ, while ARR before treatment was associated with earlier disease reactivation. ConclusionsWe could confirm the high therapeutic efficacy of NTZ which trends to be used earlier in the disease course nowadays. Discontinuation of NTZ seems safe only in patients who convert to SPMS during treatment, while higher ARR before NTZ increases the risk of disease reactivation after treatment discontinuation.
Protocol for Sonospeech Cleft Pilot: A Pilot Randomised Control Trial of Ultrasound Visual Biofeedback Versus Standard Intervention for Children with Cleft Lip and Palate.
Authors: Cleland Joanne , Crampin Lisa , Campbell Linsay , Dokovova Marie 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Children with cleft lip and palate can continue to have problems producing clear speech after surgery. This can lead to social, emotional, and educational challenges. Typical treatment involves teaching children the correct tongue movements to produce speech sounds. This is known as articulation intervention. However, this intervention is challenging because the tongue is hidden from view and movements are difficult to see and describe. This pilot randomized control trial will try a new treatment, ultrasound visual biofeedback (U-VBF). Methods/Design: The Sonospeech project will enroll up to 40 children with cleft lip and palate aged 4;6 to 16 in a single-centre two-arm parallel group pilot randomized controlled trial with blinded assessors. Children will receive either six sessions of U-VBF or articulation intervention. The primary goals of this pilot are to determine recruitment/attrition rates; to measure pre-post follow up completion; and acceptability of the randomization and interventions to families.Discussion: Larger trials of speech interventions for children with cleft lip and palate are needed. This pilot/feasibility study will determine whether a larger randomized control trial comparing ultrasound and articulation interventions is feasible. Trial registration. ISRCTN, ISRCTN17441953. Registered 22 March 2021, http://isrctn.com/ISRCTN17441953. See Appendix 1 for all items.
Niveoporofomes (Basidiomycota, Fomitopsidaceae) in Tropical Africa: Niveoporofomes oboensis sp. nov. and N.widdringtoniae comb. nov., two species from Afromontane Forests
Authors: Decock Cony Antonio , Ryvarden Leif , Amalfi Mario 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
During a survey of polypores in the montane forest of the Ôbo de São Tomé National Park, in the western African, equatorial island of São Tomé, a specimen that was, a priori, related to Fomitopsis, based on the gross morphology of the basidiome and a brown rot, showed deviating features including subglobose basidiospores with a large gutta, what pointed toward Niveoporofomes. Phylogenetic inferences based on multiple loci dataset (ITS-nLSU-nSSU-tef1-rpb2) confirmed these affinities, and Niveoporofomes oboensis is described as new. The species is compared to Fomitopsis widdringtoniae, known from southeast Africa, which is characterized also by subglobose basidiospores; hence, the new combination N. widdringtoniae is proposed. The new combination Niveoporofomes globosporus (basionym Trametes globospora) is also proposed based on phylogenetic analyses. A key to the species of Fomitopsis, Niveoporofomes, Rhodofomes, and Rhodofomitopsis in Tropical Africa is presented.
Pulpotomy for the Management of Irreversible Pulpitis in Mature Teeth (Pip): A Feasibility Study
Authors: Clarkson Jan E , Ramsay Craig R , Mannocci Francesco , Jarad Fadi , Albadri Sondos , Ricketts David , Tait Carol , Banerjee Avijit , Deery Chris , Boyers Dwayne , Marshman Zoe , Goulao Beatriz , Banister Katie , Bell Rosanne , Brown Lori , Conway David , Donaldson Pina , Duncan Anne , Dunn Katharine , Fee Patrick , Forrest Mark , Glenny Anne-Marie , Gouick Jill , Gupta Ekta , Hamilton Alice R , Jacobsen Elisabet , Kettle Jennifer , MacLennan Graeme , Macpherson Lorna , McGuff Tina , Mitchell Fiona , Pol Marjon Van der , Moazzez Rebecca , Roberston Douglas , Wojewodka Gabriella , Young Linda , Lamont Thomas 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
BACKGROUNDProgression of dental caries can result in irreversible pulpal damage. Partial irreversible pulpitis, is the initial stage of this damage, confined to coronal pulp whilst the radicular pulp show little or no sign of infection. Preserving the pulp with sustained vitality and developing minimally invasive biologically based therapies are key themes within contemporary clinical practice. However, root canal treatment involving complete removal of the pulp is often the only option (other than extraction) given to patients with irreversible pulpitis, with substantial NHS and patient incurred costs. The European Society of Endodontology’s (ESE 2019) recent consenus statement recommends full pulpotomy, where the inflamed coronal pulp is removed with the goal of keeping the radicular pulp vital, as a more minimally invasive technique, potentially avoiding complex root canal treatment. Although this technique may be provided in secondary care, it has not been routinely implemented or evaluated in UK General Dental Practice.METHODThis feasibility study aims to identify and assess in a primary care setting, training needs of General Dental Practitioners, clinical fidelity of the full pulpotomy intervention, estimate likely eligible patient pool and develop recruitment materials ahead of a main randomised controlled trial comparing the clinical and cost-effectiveness of full pulpotomy compared to root canal treatment in pre/molar teeth of adults 16 years and older showing signs indicative of irreversible pulpitis. The feasibililty study will recruit and train 10 primary care dentists in the full pulpotomy technique. Dentists will recruit and provide full pulpotomy to 40 patients with indications of partial irreversible pulpitis. DISCUSSIONThe Pulpotomy for the Management of Irreversible Pulpitis in Mature Teeth (PIP) study will address the lack of high-quality evidence in the treatment of irreversible pulpitis, to aid dental practitioners, patients and policy makers in their decision making. The PIP feasibility study will inform the main study on the practicality of providing both training and provision of the full pulpotomy technique in general dental practice. TRIAL REGISTRATIONTrial registry: ISRCTNTrial registration number: 17973404Date of Registration: 28.01.2021URL of trial registry record: https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17973604PROTOCOL VERSIONProtocol version: 1Date: 03.02.2021
Targeting CRABP-II Overcomes Pancreatic Cancer Drug Resistance By Reversing Lipid Raft Cholesterol Accumulation and AKT Survival Signaling
Authors: Yu Shuiliang , Wang Lei , Che Danian , Zhang Mei , Li Ming , Naito Mikihiko , Xin Wei , Zhou Lan 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Resistance to standard therapy is a major reason for the poor prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Developing novel therapy to overcome PDAC drug-resistance is urgently needed. CRABP-II was highly expressed in all PDAC but not expressed in normal pancreatic tissues and chronic pancreatitis. CRABP-II was shown to promote PDAC migration and metastasis while its potential role in promoting PDAC drug-resistance was not known.Methods: A paired cohort of human primary and relapsing PDAC tissues was assessed for CRABP-II expression by immunohistochemistry. CRISPR/cas9 gene editing was used to establish CRABP-II knockout cell lines and MTT assays were performed to assess gemcitabine sensitivity in vitro. Cleaved caspase-3/PARP blots and Annexin V staining were conducted to detect cell apoptosis. Gene expression microarray, Q-PCR, western blots, Co-IP and RNA-IP were used to study the molecular function of CRABP-II. Sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation was applied to isolate lipid rafts and LC-MS-MS was used to assess cholesterol content. Both subcutaneous and orthotopic PDX models were established to examine the efficacy of SNIPER-11 and the synergistic effect between SNIPER-11 and gemcitabine in vivo. Results: A higher expression of CRABP-II was found in relapsing PDAC tissue and was associated with poor prognosis. Gemcitabine-resistant cell lines exhibited increased level of CRABP-II, while CRABP-II knockout resensitized PDAC cells to gemcitabine. Mechanistically, aberrant expression of CRABP-II increased the stability of SREBP-1c mRNA through cooperation with HuR and upregulated the downstream genes of SREBP-1c to favor cholesterol uptake and accumulation in lipid rafts. Increased lipid raft cholesterol accumulation facilitated ATK survival signaling and PDAC drug resistance. The small compound SNIPER-11 treatment effectively induced CRABP-II protein degradation, induced apoptosis, and suppressed tumor growth. Combination of SNIPER-11 and gemcitabine significantly reduced the lipid raft cholesterol content in PDX and profoundly inhibited tumor progression. Conclusions: These findings identified CRABP-II as a novel regulator of cholesterol metabolism and suggested that CRABP-II is a selective target for overcoming PDAC drug resistance.
Structural equation modelling the relationship between anti-fungal prophylaxis and Pseudomonas bacteremia in ICU patients.
Authors: Hurley James 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Purpose

Animal models implicate candida colonization facilitating invasive bacterial infections. The clinical relevance of this microbial interaction remains undefined. Observations from studies of anti-septic, antibiotic, anti-fungal, and non-decontamination-based interventions to prevent ICU acquired infection collectively serve as a natural experiment.
Methods

Three candidate generalized structural equation models (GSEM), with Candida and Pseudomonas colonization as latent variables, were confronted with blood culture and respiratory tract isolate data derived from 460 groups from 279 studies including studies of combined antibiotic and antifungal exposures within selective digestive decontamination (SDD) interventions.
Results

Introducing an interaction term between Candida colonization and Pseudomonas colonization substantially improved GSEM model fit. Model derived coefficients for singular exposure to anti-septic agents (-1.23; -2.1 to -0.32), amphotericin (-1.78; -2.79 to -0.78) and topical antibiotic prophylaxis (TAP; +1.02; +0.11 to + 1.93) versus Candida colonization were similar in magnitude but contrary in direction. By contrast, the model-derived coefficients for singular exposure to TAP, as with anti-septic agents, versus Pseudomonas colonization were weaker or non-significant. Singular exposure to amphotericin would be predicted to more than halve candidemia and Pseudomonas bacteremia incidences versus literature benchmarks for absolute differences of approximately one percentage point or less.
Conclusion

GSEM modelling of published data supports the postulated interaction between Candida and Pseudomonas colonization towards promoting bacteremia among ICU patients. The model implicates that anti-fungal agents have greater impact in preventing bacteremia versus TAP, which has no impact.
Large-Capacity Image Data Hiding based on Table Look-up
Authors: Ding Wenjia , Zhang Huyin , Reulke Ralf , Wang Yulin 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
In previous data hiding techniques, binary rules are usually used to guide the fine-tuning of the values of basic objects in the host media to hide bit 0 and bit 1. In this paper, we propose a new data hiding technique for gray images based on querying a 256x256 information table. The information table is constructed by cloning a 3x3 basic block, which we call seed block. Eight unsigned integer values between 0 and 7, i.e., 3 bit binary data, are assigned to different elements of the seed block. Each time, a pair of pixels are chosen from a host image, and their pixel values are used as row and column numbers to look up the information table. If element value obtained by looking up the table is equal to the 3 bit binary data to be hidden, the values of the pixel pair will remain unchanged. Otherwise, take this element as the central point, we call it the focus element, to enclose a 3x3 window in the information table. Then in the window, find the element which is equal to the data to be hidden. Finally, update the pixel values of the pair with the row and column numbers of the found element in the window. Since the row and column numbers are in the range of 0-255, the updated pixel values will not overflow. In the proposed algorithm, a pair of pixels can hide 3 bits of information, so the embedding capacity is very high. Since the adjustment of pixel values is constrained in a 3x3 window, the modification amount of pixel values is small. The proposed technique belongs to fragile digital watermarking, so it can be used for image authentication and tamper localization. By the evaluation of data hiding capacity, security, imperceptibility, computational cost and extensibility, this algorithm is superior to existing information hiding techniques. The proposed technique can also be used in color image and audio data hiding.
Rapid and Concise Quantification of Mycelial Growth by Microscopic Image Intensity Model and Application to Mass Cultivation of Fungi
Authors: Lee Soo Kweon , Lee Ju Hun , Kim Hyeong Ryeol , Chun Youngsang , Lee Ja Hyun , Park Chulhwan , Yoo Hah Young , Kim Seung Wook 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The microbial food fermentation industry requires real-time monitoring and accurate quantification of cells. However, filamentous fungi are difficult to quantify as they have complex cell types such as pellet, spores, and dispersed hyphae. In this study, numerous data of microscopic image intensity (MII) were used to develop a simple and accurate quantification method of Cordyceps mycelium. The dry cell weight (DCW) of the sample collected during the fermentation was measured. In addition, the intensity values were obtained through the ImageJ program after converting the microscopic images. The prediction model obtained by analyzing the correlation between MII and DCW was evaluated through a simple linear regression method and found to be statistically significant (R2 = 0.941, p <0.001). In addition, validation with randomly selected samples showed significant accuracy, thus, this model is expected to be used as a valuable tool for predicting and quantifying fungal growth in various industries.
Protocol For a Randomised Controlled Feasibility Study Examining the Efficacy of Brief Cognitive Therapy For the Treatment of Panic Disorder in Adolescents (PANDA)
Authors: Waite Polly 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Panic disorder occurs in between 1-3% of adolescents, is associated with high levels of co-morbidity, and without treatment, appears to have a chronic course. To improve access to effective psychological interventions, briefer versions of CBT have been developed and evaluated for pre-adolescent children with anxiety disorders. However, there are currently no brief evidence-based CBT interventions for adolescents with anxiety disorders that can be delivered in less than eight sessions. Given that a brief version of cognitive therapy has been shown to be effective in adults with panic disorder, with a large effect size, it is possible that an adapted version could be effective for adolescents with panic disorder.Methods: The study will examine whether a definitive trial can be conducted, based on a feasibility RCT using several well-defined criteria. The feasibility RCT is a single centre, randomised control trial. Between 30-48 young people (age 11-18 years) who meet diagnostic criteria for panic disorder, attending a routine clinical service, will be randomly allocated to receive either (i) brief cognitive therapy, or (ii) a general form of CBT treatment that is more commonly used for adolescents with anxiety disorders. Both will be delivered 1:1 by a therapist and involve five treatment sessions and two booster sessions. Young people’s outcomes will be assessed at the end of treatment and at 3 month follow up, and qualitative interviews will be conducted to examine acceptability. We will also explore outcomes 1-year after the completion of treatment. Discussion: This study will test the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial to compare brief cognitive therapy to a general form of CBT for adolescents with panic disorder in the UK. The outputs from the study will provide a clear indication of the feasibility of a future definitive trial and, if indicated, the critical resources that will be required and key information to inform the design and maximise the successful completion of the trial. This has the potential to bring direct benefits to young people and their families, as well as services and society more broadly.Trial Registration: This trial is registered on the ISRCTN Registry, registration number ISRCTN14884288, registered retrospectively on 05/12/2019.
Long-term Outcome of Extensive Mitral Valve Reconstruction With Autologous Pericardium and Artificial Chordae for Treatment of Destructive Active Infective Endocarditis of the Mitral Valve
Authors: Handa Kazuma , Masai Takafumi , Ohata Toshihiro , Sakamoto Tomohiko , Kuratani Toru 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Objective: Mitral valve (MV) repair is a well-accepted surgical approach for infective endocarditis (IE). In our hospital, extensive MV reconstruction with fresh autologous pericardium (AP) and artificial chordae (AC) has been performed for patients with profoundly extensive and destructive IE in which valve reconstruction would be extremely challenging, especially in young patients to avoid mechanical valve replacement. Long-term outcome including the future performance of the newly created leaflet has not been established. Methods: Five patients (50 ± 30 years of age; 3 men, 2 women) underwent this procedure from January 2011 to December 2020. In all patients, preoperative cardiac function was good (left ventricular ejection fraction, 70% ± 5%). After complete debridement of the infective valve tissue, the MV was reconstructed with large, fresh, trimmed AP and AC.Results: The reconstructed leaflets were anterior in three patients and posterior in four, and AC were placed in four patients. All patients showed an uneventful postoperative course and were discharged to home 35 ± 5 days postoperatively after completion of intravenous antibiotic therapy. Pre-discharge echocardiography revealed no or trivial mitral regurgitation (MR) in all patients. The mean follow-up period was 7.2 (range, 1.3–9.5) years, and no patients developed recurrence of the IE. The latest echocardiography in four patients showed trivial/mild MR with good leaflet function. One patient developed recurrence of MR, 5 months postoperatively. Conclusions: The short- and long-term outcomes of this procedure were satisfactory. This procedure might be considered as an effective and valuable option, especially in young patients.