bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Combinatory Drugs using Markov Chain-Based Models
Authors: Ma Shuang , Dang Dan , Wang Wenxue , Wang Yuechao , Liu Lianqing 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Combinatory drug therapy for complex diseases, such as HSV infection and cancers, has a more significant efficacy than single-drug treatment. However, one key challenge is how to effectively and efficiently determine the optimal concentrations of combinatory drugs because the number of drug combinations increases exponentially with the types of drugs. Results: In this study, a searching method based on Markov chain is presented to optimize the combinatory drug concentrations. Its performance is compared with four stochastic optimization algorithms as benchmark methods by simulation and biological experiements. Both simulation results and experimental data demonstrate that the Markov Chain-based approach is more reliable and efficient than the benchmark algorithms.Conclusion: This article provides a versatile method for combinatory drug screening, which is of great significance for clinical drug combination therapy.
Evaluation and Discussion of Genetics Content in Museums
Authors: Howell Abigail , Reisenauer Keighley , Valkanas Michelle , Carter Katherine 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundGenetics literacy is crucial for making informed personal decisions. With rapid advances in genetic technology, a foundational understanding of genetics is now more important than ever for meaningful engagement with questions surrounding health, privacy, and policy. However, genetic content engagement barriers, including geographic unavailability, lack of prior education, and misleading media narratives, can make it difficult to reach diverse populations. Furthermore, with growing mistrust in science and genetic information, interventions to improve genetics literacy, particularly to those beyond a K – 12 classroom, require an approach centered on building science trust and self-efficacy. ResultsFor the meta-analysis, we found genetics content in 88 of the 691 museums queried, typically in science (n=37) and natural history (n=25) exhibits. While genetics content was present in 42 states, there were large portions of the country that were more than 150 miles away from any museum featuring genetics. We found a high concentration of genetics content in sponsored exhibits and a low concentration of content within children’s museums, reinforcing narratives of genetic technology as product and genetics as difficult, respectively. In framing devices, museums fell into one of three categories. Museums with the meta-narrative “Genetics is Fun” focused on interactivity and volunteer facilitation, and emphasized specific inherited traits and genetics tools and technology. Museums highlighting the meta-narrative “Genetics is Relevant” highlighted DNA basics and health testing. Finally, museums with the meta-narrative “Genetics is Discovery” featured heavy use of fishbowl-style genetics labs, highly visible museum collections, and an emphasis on visitor participation in science research. ConclusionWhile each of these meta-narratives leads to high engagement with genetics topics, they also all lead to construction of different personal identities around these topics. For example, watching a diverse set of scientists work in a fishbowl lab broadens definitions of who can be a scientist, but active participation in a genetics experiment through volunteer facilitation builds science self-efficacy. Furthermore, narratives focusing on technological breakthroughs alone may inadvertently send a message that genetics is complex and impersonal. Exhibit creators should consider the design ramifications of each of these choices when creating an impactful genetics exhibit.
A Novel Somatic Frameshift Mutation in PIK3CA Causes CLOVES Syndrome by Provoking PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Yan Wei , Zhang Bin , Wang Huijun , Mo Ran , Jiang Xingyuan , Qin Wen , Ma Lin , Lin Zhimiao 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundCLOVES syndrome(OMIM#612918) is a rare overgrowth disorder resulted from mosaic gain-of-function mutations in the PIK3CA gene. All the reported CLOVES-associated PIK3CA mutations are missense mutations affecting certain residues. To investigate underlying mutation and its pathogenicity in a patient with CLOVES syndrome and to evaluate the inhibitory effect of ARQ092, one of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibitors. ResultsWe performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing to detect underlying somatic mutations in the skin lesion of the patient. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was employed to evaluate the mRNA abundance of PIK3CA in the patient’s skin lesion. AKT phosphorylation level assessed by Western blot was performed to evaluate the PIK3CA mutations and inhibitory effects of ARQ092. A novel somatic frameshift mutation c.3206_3207insG (p.X1069Trpfs*4) in PIK3CA was identified in the genomic DNA extracted from the vascular malformation sample of the patient. This mutation affects the canonical stop codon of PIK3CA (NM_006218.4 ) and is predicted to produce a prolonged protein with four additional residues. qRT-PCR demonstrated that the mRNA expression levels of the patient’s affected skin tissue were comparable compared to the normal control. In vitro studies revealed that p.X1069Trpfs*4 mutant exhibited increased AKT phosphorylation significantly compared to that of the wildtype, which could be inhibited by ARQ092. ConclusionsWe have identified the first frameshift mutation in PIK3CA, which overactivated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway to cause CLOVES syndrome. We also provided evidence of ARQ092 to be a potential therapeutic option for PROS in vitro.
SELEX-Based Direct Enzyme-Linked Aptamer Assay (DELAA) for Diagnosis of Toxoplasmosis by Detection of SAG1 Protein in Mice and Humans
Authors: Shen Jilong , Wang Wei , Xu Yuanhong , Shen Xuhang , Cui Wen , Wang Cong , Cudjoe Obed , Wang Qizhi , Bibi Asma , Zhao Liang , Tao Qing , Yu Li , Du Jian 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a single-celled parasite commonly found in mammals. Diagnosis of toxoplasmosis largely depends on measurements of the antibody and/or antigen and Toxoplasma-derived DNAs due to the presence of tissue dwelling duplicating tachyzoites, or quiescent cysts in latent infection of the parasite. As a major surface antigen of T.gondii tachyzoites, SAG1 is a key marker for laboratory diagnosis. However, there are no methods available yet for SAG1 detection using aptamer-based technology.Methods: Recombinant truncated SAG1（r-SAG1）of Toxoplasma WH3 strain (type Chinese 1) was prokaryotically expressed and subjected to the synthetic oligonucleotide library for selection of nucleic acid aptamers which target the r-SAG1, with systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) strategy. The specific aptamer-2 was screened out and used in direct enzyme-linked aptamer assay (DELAA) for detection of native SAG1 obtained from tachyzoite lysates (n-SAG1), mouse sera of acute infection, and human sera that had been verified to be positive for Toxoplasma DNAs by PCR amplification. Results: The soluble r-SAG1 protein was obtained from E.coli lysates by purification and identification with immunoblotting, and then labelled with biotin. The selected aptamers were amplified by PCR, followed by DNA sequencing. The results showed that the aptamer-2, with the highest affinity to n-SAG1 in the sera of animals in the four aptamer candidates, has a high specificity and sensitivity when used in detection of n-SAG1 in the sera of humans when compared with the commercial kit of ELISA for Toxoplasma circulating antigen test.Conclusions: A new direct enzyme-linked aptamer assay (DELAA), with aptamer-2 as the recognition probe, was developed for detection of native SAG1 protein of Toxoplasma. With increased sensitivity and specificity, stability, easy and cheap preparation, the aptamer-based technology is considered as a efficient method for the diagnosis of active and reactivated toxoplasmosis.
Mapping strong electronic coupling in metavalent PbS moiré superlattices
Authors: Zheng Haimei , Wang Yu , Song Zhigang , Wan Jiawei , Betzler Sophia , Xie Yujun , Ophus Colin , Bustillo Karen , Ercius Peter , Wang Lin-wang 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Moiré superlattices are twisted bilayer materials, in which the long-range superlattice potentials from interlayer interactions can create quantum confinement in each layer. The quantum confinement can slow down or localize electrons in moiré superlattices, providing a tunable platform for studying strongly correlated physics1–4, such as superconductivity5–8, Mott insulators9, and interacting topological insulators10,11. Previously, moiré superlattices were built exclusively using materials with weak van der Waals interactions12 and fabrication of moiré superlattices with strong interlayer chemical bonding (e.g., covalent, metavalent, or ionic bonding) was considered to be impractical13. Here using lead sulfide (PbS) as an example, we report a strategy for synthesizing moiré superlattices coupled by strong metavalent bonding. We use water-soluble ligands as a removable template to obtain free-standing ultra-thin PbS nanosheets and assemble them into direct-contact bilayers with various twist angles. Atomic-resolution imaging shows the interlayer distance is approximately equal to the Pb–S bond length, rendering a strong metavalent coupling. Spatial mapping by electron energy loss spectroscopy reveals a strong localization of electronic states in small-angle twisted bilayers, which agrees with our DFT calculations. This study opens a new door to exploration of deep energy modulations within moiré superlattices alternative to van der Waals twistronics.
The physiological effects of massage before breast pumping on blood flow, temperature, and tension – A pilot study
Authors: Leow Mabel Qi He , Tay Peter Kai Chai , Afif Azaizah Binte Mohamed , Wong Boh Boi , Leong Lester Chee Hao 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Aim: To test the feasibility of our ultrasound protocol in evaluating the physiological changes during breast milk expression, and the impact of breast massage on temperature, blood flow and tension.Method: Breast massage was used for the right breast, and the left breast had no massage. Temperature was measured at baseline, post massage (for right breast), and post pump. The ultrasound scans were performed using a Toshiba Aplio 500 system (Toshiba Medical Systems, Otawara, Japan). B-mode, doppler ultrasound and shear wave elastography (SWE) were used. Blood flow of the IMA and LTA were measured at baseline, post massage (for right breast), 10 minutes into pump (relaxation and tension phase), and post pump. SWE was used to measure breast tension during the tension and relaxation phase of breast pump, after the breast milk was completely drained.Results: There was a slight decrease in breast temperature post massage, and further decreased post pump. With breast massage, the SWE values were higher at relaxation phase compared to no massage (left breast). However, with massage, the tension phase also showed less increase of SWE values compared to no massage, and appeared to be lower than no massage. Blood flow of IMA did not appear to follow a particular trend, with and without massage. Conclusion: Breast massage prior to pumping breast milk helped to reduce the temperature of the breast, showing that it has an effect in relieving breast engorgement. Massage also reduced the tension of the breast during the pump tension (suction) phase. There was no observable trend of massage on blood flow in both the IMQ and LTA.
Second-order hyperpolarizability, Figure of merit and nonlinear optical properties of novel organic compound doped conducting polymer film
Authors: Badran Hussain Ali , Al-Hazam Hanan A. , Alfahed Raeed K. , Ajeel Khalid I. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The structural characterization of a new organic compound (3, 5-bis (4-chlorophenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-Pyrazole) was analyzed experimentally by 1HNMR and FT-IR spectroscopic technique. The analysis of HOMO-LUMO and natural bond orbital are investigated to study the charge transfer interactions which is leading to the properties of nonlinear behavior. linear optical properties of anew organic compound / Poly (O- Methoxyaniline) (POMA) film was studied using Wemble and Didomenico (WD) technique to estimate the refractive index n and other optical constant such as the oscillation energy E0, the dispersion energy Ed, and the lattice dielectric constant. Measurements of the thermally induced optical nonlinearity of novel organic compound (3, 5-bis (4-chlorophenyl)-4, 5-dihydro-1H- Pyrazole) in an organic solvent (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone) NMP)) was studied through an excitation source (continuous wave diode laser at the wavelength of 473 nm) in the case of the solution and a conducting polymer film. The Z-scan technique was used to measure the nonlinear refractive index )) to obtain the optical response of prepared material. The prepared sample illustrated negative and large values in the order of 10− 7 cm2/W and reverse saturable absorption )RSA) with large values of the nonlinear absorption coefficient in the order of 10− 3 cm/W. The nonlinear refractive index was determined and varied as a response to different concentrations. The determination of the figure of merit (W) and nonlinear coefficients indicate that the compound is a promising candidate for applications in the nonlinear optics field.
Explainable machine-learning predictions for complications after pediatric congenital heart surgery
Authors: Zeng Xian , Hu Yaoqin , Shu Liqi , Li Jianhua , Duan Huilong , Shu Qiang , Li Haomin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The quality of treatment and prognosis after pediatric congenital heart surgery remains unsatisfactory. A reliable prediction model for postoperative complications of congenital heart surgery patients is essential to enable prompt initiation of therapy and improve the quality of prognosis. Here, we develop an interpretable machine-learning-based model that integrates patient demographics, surgery-specific features and intraoperative blood pressure data for accurately predicting complications after pediatric congenital heart surgery. We used blood pressure variability and the k-means algorithm combined with a smoothed formulation of dynamic time wrapping to extract features from time series data. In addition, SHAP framework was used to provide explanations of the prediction. Our model achieved the best performance both in binary and multi-label classification compared with other consensus-based risk models. In addition, this explainable model explains why a prediction was made to help improve the clinical understanding of complication risk and generate actionable knowledge in practice. The combination of model performance and interpretability is easy for clinicians to trust and provide insight into how they should respond before the condition worsens after pediatric congenital heart surgery.
Amorphous thin-film oxide power devices operating beyond bulk single-crystal silicon limit
Authors: Tsuruma Yuki , Kawashima Emi , Nagasaki Yoshikazu , Sekiya Takashi , Imamura Gaku , Yoshikawa Genki 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Power devices (PD) are ubiquitous elements of the modern electronics industry that must satisfy the rigorous and diverse demands for robust power conversion systems that are essential for emerging technologies including Internet of Things (IoT), mobile electronics, and wearable devices. However, conventional PDs based on “bulk” and “single-crystal” semiconductors require high temperature (>1000°C) fabrication processing and a thick (typically a few tens to 100 μm) drift layer1, thereby preventing their applications to compact devices2, where PDs must be fabricated on a heat sensitive and flexible substrate. Here we report next-generation PDs based on “thin-films” of “amorphous” oxide semiconductors with the performance exceeding the silicon limit (a theoretical limit for a PD based on bulk single-crystal silicon3). The breakthrough was achieved by the creation of an ideal Schottky interface without Fermi-level pinning at the interface, resulting in low specific on-resistance Ron,sp (<1×10-4 Ωcm2) and high breakdown voltage VBD (~100 V). To demonstrate the unprecedented capability of the amorphous thin-film oxide power devices (ATOPs), we successfully fabricated a prototype on a flexible polyimide film, which is not compatible with the fabrication process of bulk single-crystal devices. The ATOP will play a central role in the development of next generation advanced technologies where devices require large area fabrication on flexible substrates and three-dimensional integration.
Personal Protective Equipements usage and its disposal by the residents of Dhaka city during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed method enquiry
Authors: Saha Shuvashis , Newaz Md Shah , Hazari Shajib , Uddin Mohammad Kabir , Iqbal Samiul , Salekuzzaman Kh 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Context: COVID-19 has caused unprecedented hazard not only to the health and economy but also to the environment worldwide. In absence of an effective vaccine to the mass people, practice of preventive measures against coronavirus can only save the health and economy of a poor nation like Bangladesh. In one hand, poor practice of protective behavior against the novel coronavirus has been reported among the general population and on the other hand, sudden rise of Personal Protective Equipements (PPEs) use are causing massive damage to the environment of the cities like Dhaka. Aims: This study aims to understand the perception and practice of use and disposal of PPEs against COVID-19 by the residents of Dhaka city. Methods and Material: A cross-sectional study was designed with a mixed method approach with an online survey and key informant interviews of the residents of Dhaka city Results: About 44% respondents were regular mask users and 3% used gloves regularly while staying out of home. Confusion, discomfort, hot weather and unaffordability were commonly reasoned for not regular use. About 40% of the respondents disposed their used masks or gloves to open places in the streets at some point of their life during the pandemic. Lack of proper disposal facilities in the city was evident throughout the study. Conclusions: A proper health education program along with government initiatives enhancing disposal facilities around the city can improve the situation.
Interventions Addressing Loneliness Among University Students: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ellard Olivia Betty , Dennison Christina , Tuomainen Helena 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundLoneliness is detrimental to mental health, with university students at higher risk than other population groups. However, little research has explored interventions to reduce loneliness among students. This systematic review identifies the characteristics and effectiveness of interventions targeting students at university or college. MethodsPsycINFO, PubMed, ASSIA and Web of Knowledge were searched from inception using keywords linked to ‘loneliness’, ‘intervention’ and ‘students’. Relevant peer and non-peer reviewed English-language articles on studies implementing an intervention with loneliness as an outcome and investigating undergraduate or postgraduate students at a higher education institute were included for quality analysis and narrative review. Risk of bias was assessed at both study level and at outcome level using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (ROB2) and the risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions (ROBINS-I).Results22 articles were included, comprising 18 quantitative and four qualitative studies covering 29 interventions. The large majority of studies were conducted in the United States. Interventions were based on psychoeducation, social support groups, increasing social interaction, or reflective exercises. For quantitative studies, 80% of each of the interventions based on either social support, increasing social interaction or reflective exercises, and 30% of psychoeducation interventions reduced loneliness scores significantly. 21 out of 25 interventions measured quantitatively were delivered in a group setting, of which 62% significantly reduced loneliness scores, regardless of intervention.ConclusionsUniversities have a choice of interventions to help reduce loneliness among students either on campus or virtually. Ones promoting social connectedness appear to be more successful. More high-quality studies in a larger number of countries are needed, taking vulnerable student groups into consideration.
Blepharochalasis:Clinical and Epidemiological Characteristics, Surgical Strategy and Prognosis-- A Retrospective Cohort Study with 93 Cases
Authors: Zhou Jinqiong , Ding Jingwen , li dongmei 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Blepharochalasis is a rare eyelid disorder but eventually leading to destructive eyelid deformation. Until now the clinical and epidemiological data is unavailable. This study aimed o report the manifestations, epidemiological characteristics and surgical strategy of a large series of blepharochalasis patients with long-term follow up, the prognosis of different clinical deformities was also investigated. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study, included consecutive patients diagnosed with blepharochalasis in a single center. Blepharoplasty and other surgical approaches were scheduled according to the various manifestations, after a 2-year quiescent period with no recurrent attacks and exacerbation of lesions. Prognosis after surgery was recorded.Results: A total of 93 patients, with a mean follow-up of 5.29±2.07 (range: 3-10) years before surgery, and 2(range:1-4) years follow-up after surgery were included. Of all those 93 patients, 72.04% were females (67, P=0.02 ). The mean age of onset of blepharochalasis symptoms was 10.09±3.32 (range: 5-16) years, mostly (83.87%) consisted with the onset of the puberty. With the average of 5 times per year, the mean duration of each acute attack was 28.12±1.01 (rang: 2-192)hours. The mean duration from the onset of acute attack to the quiescent stage lasted for 7.33 ± 2.05 (range: 4-10) years. Most of the cases (88, 94.62%) had more than one manifestation at the end of the last follow-up before surgery. Ptosis (48.39%) was the most common deformity. Followed by lacrimal gland prolapse (44.09%), canthal angle deformity(29.04%), lower eyelid retraction(17.20%). After surgery, the functional and cosmetically acceptable results were achieved in all patients except for overcorrection in 5 (11.90%) patients with ptosis. The lacrimal gland prolapse recurred in two (4.00%) patients at 29 and 36 months after surgery. Conclusions: Blepharochalasis is rare but mostly occurred in adolescent females. The process from the onset to the stable stage usually lasted for about 7 years, might be associated with the onset of puberty. Surgical management of clinical manifestations after at least 2-year follow-up period of quiescence would be appropriate in order to observe a great plastic effect, low overcorrection and recurrence rate.