bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reducing Variance with Sample Allocation Based on Expected Response Rates in Stratified Sample Designs
Authors: Szeitl Blanka , Rudas TamÁs 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This paper demonstrates that the sample allocation that takes the expected response rates (ERRs) into account has certain advantages over other approaches in terms of reducing the variances of the estimates. The performance of the ERR allocation is assessed within the framework of stratified sampling by comparing the resulting variances with those obtained using the classical procedure of proportional-to-stratum size (PS) allocation and then applying poststratification. The main theoretical tool is asymptotic calculations using the δ-method, which are complemented with extensive finite sample evaluations using various combinations of specific population parameters. The main finding was that within a stratified sample design, ERR allocation leads to lower variances than PS allocation, not only when the response rates are correctly specified but also under a wide range of conditions where the response rates can only be approximately specified in advance.
Power spectrum of density fluctuations, halo abundances, and clustering with primordial black holes
Authors: Padilla Nelson D , Magaña Juan , Sureda Joaquín , Araya Ignacio J 
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT
We study the effect of dark matter (DM) being encapsulated in primordial black holes (PBHs) on the power spectrum of density fluctuations P(k); we also look at its effect on the abundance of haloes and their clustering. We allow the growth of Poisson fluctuations since matter and radiation equality and study both monochromatic and extended PBH mass distributions. We present updated monochromatic black hole mass constraints by demanding $\lt 10{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ deviations from the Λ cold dark matter (CDM) power spectrum at a scale of k = 1 h Mpc−1. Our results show that PBHs with masses $\gt 10^4\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ are excluded from conforming all of the DM in the Universe. We also apply this condition to our extended Press–Schechter (PS) mass functions, and find that the Poisson power is scale dependent even before applying evolution. We find that characteristic masses $M^*\le 10^2 \, \mathrm{ h}^{-1}\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ are allowed, leaving only two characteristic PBH mass windows of PS mass functions when combining with previous constraints, at $M^*\sim 10^2\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ and $\sim \!10^{-8}\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ where all of the DM can be in PBHs. The resulting DM halo mass functions within these windows are similar to those resulting from CDM made of fundamental particles. However, as soon as the parameters produce unrealistic P(k), the resulting halo mass functions and their bias as a function of halo mass deviate strongly from the behaviour measured in the real Universe.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Phe-tRNA synthetase: structural insights into tRNA recognition and aminoacylation
Authors: Michalska Karolina , Jedrzejczak Robert , Wower Jacek , Chang Changsoo , Baragaña Beatriz , Gilbert Ian H , Forte Barbara , Joachimiak Andrzej 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, responsible for ∼1.5 million fatalities in 2018, is the deadliest infectious disease. Global spread of multidrug resistant strains is a public health threat, requiring new treatments. Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases are plausible candidates as potential drug targets, because they play an essential role in translating the DNA code into protein sequence by attaching a specific amino acid to their cognate tRNAs. We report structures of M. tuberculosis Phe-tRNA synthetase complexed with an unmodified tRNAPhe transcript and either L-Phe or a nonhydrolyzable phenylalanine adenylate analog. High-resolution models reveal details of two modes of tRNA interaction with the enzyme: an initial recognition via indirect readout of anticodon stem-loop and aminoacylation ready state involving interactions of the 3′ end of tRNAPhe with the adenylate site. For the first time, we observe the protein gate controlling access to the active site and detailed geometry of the acyl donor and tRNA acceptor consistent with accepted mechanism. We biochemically validated the inhibitory potency of the adenylate analog and provide the most complete view of the Phe-tRNA synthetase/tRNAPhe system to date. The presented topography of amino adenylate-binding and editing sites at different stages of tRNA binding to the enzyme provide insights for the rational design of anti-tuberculosis drugs.
What is the Best Latent Structure of Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia? A Systematic Review
Authors: Haguiara Bernardo , Koga Gabriela , Diniz Elton , Fonseca Lais , Higuchi Cinthia H , Kagan Simão , Lacerda Acioly , Correll Christoph U , Gadelha Ary 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Background
Determining the best latent structure of negative symptoms in schizophrenia could benefit assessment tools, neurobiological research, and targeted interventions. However, no review systematically evaluated studies that assessed and validated latent models of negative symptoms.

Objective
To identify and evaluate existing latent structure models in the literature of negative symptoms and to determine the best model.

Method
Systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus on July 19, 2020, for confirmatory factor analysis models of negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. The available evidence was assessed through 2 sets of criteria: (1) study design quality—based on negative symptoms assessment and modeling strategy and (2) psychometric quality and model fit—based on fit indices and factor definition quality.

Results
In total, 22 studies (n = 17 086) from 9 countries were included. Studies differed greatly regarding symptom scales, setting, and sample size (range = 86–6889). Dimensional models included 2–6 factors (median = 4). Twelve studies evaluated competing models and adopted appropriate instruments to assess the latent structure of negative symptoms. The 5-factor and hierarchical models outperformed unitary, 2-factor, and 3-factor models on all direct comparisons, and most of the analyses derived from the Brief Negative Symptom Scale. Considering the quality criteria proposed, 5-factor and hierarchical models achieved excellent fit in just one study.

Conclusions
Our review points out that the 5-factor and hierarchical models represent the best latent structure of negative symptoms, but the immaturity of the relevant current literature may affect the robustness of this conclusion. Future studies should address current limitations regarding psychometric properties and also address biological and clinical validity to refine available models.
Carbon Nanotube Exposure Triggers a Cerebral Peptidomic Response: Barrier Compromise, Neuroinflammation, and a Hyperexcited State
Authors: Mostovenko Ekaterina , Saunders Samantha , Muldoon Pretal P , Bishop Lindsey , Campen Matthew J , Erdely Aaron , Ottens Andrew K 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The unique physicochemical properties of carbon nanomaterials and their ever-growing utilization generate a serious concern for occupational risk. Pulmonary exposure to these nanoparticles induces local and systemic inflammation, cardiovascular dysfunction, and even cognitive deficits. Although multiple routes of extrapulmonary toxicity have been proposed, the mechanism for and manner of neurologic effects remain minimally understood. Here, we examine the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF)-derived peptidomic fraction as a reflection of neuropathological alterations induced by pulmonary carbon nanomaterial exposure. Male C57BL/6 mice were exposed to 10 or 40 µg of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) by oropharyngeal aspiration. Serum and CSFs were collected 4 h post exposure. An enriched peptide fraction of both biofluids was analyzed using ion mobility-enabled data-independent mass spectrometry for label-free quantification. MWCNT exposure induced a prominent peptidomic response in the blood and CSF; however, correlation between fluids was limited. Instead, we determined that a MWCNT-induced peptidomic shift occurred specific to the CSF with 292 significant responses found that were not in serum. Identified MWCNT-responsive peptides depicted a mechanism involving aberrant fibrinolysis (fibrinopeptide A), blood-brain barrier permeation (homeobox protein A4), neuroinflammation (transmembrane protein 131L) with reactivity by astrocytes and microglia, and a pro-degradative (signal transducing adapter molecule, phosphoglycerate kinase), antiplastic (AF4/FMR2 family member 1, vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 18) state with the excitation-inhibition balance shifted to a hyperexcited (microtubule-associated protein 1B) phenotype. Overall, the significant pathologic changes observed were consistent with early neurodegenerative disease and were diagnostically reflected in the CSF peptidome.
Principal Component Analysis of Striatal and Extrastriatal D2 Dopamine Receptor Positron Emission Tomography in Manganese-Exposed Workers
Authors: Criswell Susan R , Searles Nielsen Susan , Dlamini Wendy W , Warden Mark N , Perlmutter Joel S , Sheppard Lianne , Moerlein Stephen M , Lenox-Krug Jason , Checkoway Harvey , Racette Brad A 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The relationships between the neurotoxicant manganese (Mn), dopaminergic pathology, and parkinsonism remain unclear. Therefore, we used [11C](N-methyl)benperidol (NMB) positron emission tomography to investigate the associations between Mn exposure, striatal and extrastriatal D2 dopamine receptors (D2R), and motor function in 54 workers with a range of Mn exposure. Cumulative Mn exposure was estimated from work histories, and all workers were examined by a movement specialist and completed a Grooved Pegboard test (GPT). NMB D2R nondisplaceable binding potentials (BPND) were calculated for brain regions of interest. We identified 2 principal components (PCs) in a PC analysis which explained 66.8% of the regional NMB BPND variance (PC1 = 55.4%; PC2 = 11.4%). PC1 was positively correlated with NMB binding in all regions and inversely correlated with age. PC2 was driven by NMB binding in 7 brain regions (all p &lt; .05), positively in the substantia nigra, thalamus, amygdala, and medial orbital frontal gyrus and negatively in the nucleus accumbens, anterior putamen, and caudate. PC2 was associated with both Mn exposure status and exposure duration (years). In addition, PC2 was associated with higher Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale motor subsection 3 (UPDRS3) scores and slower GPT performance. We conclude Mn exposure is associated with both striatal and extrastriatal D2R binding. Multifocal alterations in D2R expression are also associated with motor dysfunction as measured by both the GPT and UPDRS3, demonstrating a link between Mn exposure, striatal and extrastriatal D2R expression, and clinical neurotoxicity.
Phase I Study of Muscadine Grape Extract for Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Bitting Rhonda L. , Tooze Janet A. , Isom Scott , Petty W. Jeffrey , Grant Stefan C. , Desnoyers Rodwige J. , Thomas Alexandra , Thomas Christopher Y. , Alistar Angela T. , Golden Shannon L. , Pleasant Katherine , Chappell Mark C. , Tallant E. Ann , Gallagher Patricia E. , Klepin Heidi D. 
Published: April 2021

Objective:
Preclinical studies with muscadine grape extract (MGE) show antitumor activity and decreased systemic inflammation. This phase I study (NCT02583269) assessed safety and tolerability of a proprietary MGE preparation in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Methods:
Patients with metastatic or unresectable cancers who were progressing on standard therapies were assigned to MGE in a standard 3+3 design. Five dose levels were tested (320 to 1600 mg total phenolics/d). Safety and maximum-tolerated dose were assessed after 4 weeks. Patients were evaluated for response at 8 weeks and continued on MGE if clinically stable. Secondary outcomes were response, survival, adherence, fatigue, and quality of life (QOL).

Results:
In total, 23 patients (lung, n=7; gastrointestinal, n=7; genitourinary, n=6; other, n=3) received MGE capsules by mouth twice daily. The cohort [median age 72 years, 48% Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) 2] was heavily pretreated. After 4 weeks on MGE, possibly attributable adverse events grade 2 or higher were fatigue (n=1), decreased lymphocyte count (n=1), and constipation (n=2), including 1 dose-limiting toxicity for grade 3 constipation. Maximum-tolerated dose was not reached. No partial responses were observed. Median time on therapy was 8 weeks, with 29% of patients treated beyond 16 weeks and a median overall survival of 7.2 months. QOL and fatigue levels were stable from baseline to 8 weeks. Higher MGE dose was correlated with improvement in self-reported physical well-being QOL at 8 weeks (r=0.6; P=0.04).

Conclusions:
MGE is safe and well-tolerated in heavily pretreated and older cancer patients. The potential anticancer properties and the effects of MGE on physical well-being and QOL metrics will be evaluated in future studies.
Review of the Current Medical and Surgical Treatment Options for Microstomia in Patients With Scleroderma
Authors: Gonzalez Cristian D. , Pamatmat Jarod John , Hutto Jake C. , Goff Heather W. 
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND
Most patients with scleroderma suffer from microstomia, which can have debilitating consequences on their quality of life. Unfortunately, treatment options remain limited. No specific guidelines exist; hence, microstomia remains a challenge to treat in this patient population.

OBJECTIVE
This review aims to evaluate the different medical and surgical treatment modalities currently available for microstomia in patients with scleroderma and make recommendations for future research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A search of PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Ovid Embase was conducted to identify articles discussing the treatment of microstomia in scleroderma. Twenty articles discussing surgical therapy and one article discussing medical therapy were reviewed.

RESULTS
Mostly because of a scarcity of high-level evidence, no individual therapy has documented long-term efficacy. Some treatments demonstrate positive results and warrant further research.

CONCLUSION
Given the variability of results, specific recommendations for the treatment of microstomia in patients with scleroderma are difficult to establish. A multifaceted approach that includes surgical and medical therapy is likely the best option to improve oral aperture in this patient population. Surgical treatments such as neurotoxins, autologous fat grafting, and ultraviolet A1 phototherapy may hold the most potential for improvement.
Nonsurgical Postpartum Abdominal Rejuvenation: A Review and Our Experience
Authors: Kream Elizabeth , Boen Monica , Fabi Sabrina G. , Goldman Mitchel P. 
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND
A significant population of aesthetic patients are postpartum women motivated to achieve a more youthful abdomen. Although traditionally, abdominoplasty was the treatment of choice, minimally invasive procedures have grown in popularity because of minimal downtime and the favorable side effect profile. so many women share concerns regarding their postpartum abdominal appearance, a limited number of studies focus specifically on postpartum abdominal rejuvenation.

OBJECTIVE
To review pertinent aspects of abdominal anatomy, associated changes with pregnancy, available nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, and to provide our experience to help guide treatment combinations which comprehensively address the concerns of the postpartum patient.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A review of the literature surrounding nonsurgical treatment options for postpartum abdominal lipohypertrophy, muscle changes, tissue laxity, and striae gravidarum, along with the authors' experience in this area are provided.

CONCLUSION
This review summarizes available nonsurgical modalities to address postpartum abdominal defects, including procedures that tone muscles, reduce fat, tighten skin, and improve the appearance of striae. Both the published literature and the authors' experience favor a combination of treatments to address the various lamellae affected by pregnancy. Further clinical trials focusing on the postpartum patient would further help create a standardized approach for postpartum abdominal rejuvenation.
Employment and Migration Patterns of Recent Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship Graduates
Authors: Kodumudi Vijay , Hales Hannah A. , Cohen Jeffrey M. , Feng Hao 
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND
There is currently an uneven distribution of the Mohs surgery workforce, with a dearth in nonurban areas. The relationship between training and employment locations of Mohs surgeons has not been studied.

OBJECTIVE
To analyze the employment location of recent micrographic surgery and dermatologic oncology (MSDO) graduates in reference to residency and fellowship locations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Data collection of training and practice locations of 421 MSDO fellowship graduates from 2012 to 2017.

RESULTS
Thirty-two percent (n = 136) and 53% (n = 225) of MSDO fellowship graduates' first employment locations were located within 10 and 100 miles of either their residency or fellowship locations. Ninety-six percent of graduates were employed in a metropolitan location. Female graduates worked closer to training sites than male graduates, with 62% (n = 124) versus 46% (n = 102) working within 100 miles of either training site. Analysis by fellowship census region showed that graduates clustered around training sites in all regions, with 45% to 60% of graduates working within 100 miles of either training site.

CONCLUSION
The majority of graduates chose to work in a metropolitan area. Training location strongly predicts employment location. More than 45% of graduates in any region worked within 100 miles of their residency or fellowship site, and a sizeable portion worked within 10 miles.
Dosimetry in Digital Breast Tomosynthesis Evaluated by Monte Carlo Technique
Authors: Alves Marcos S. , Belinato Walmir , Santos William S. , Galeano Diego C. , Neves Lucio P. , Perini Ana P. , N. Souza Divanizia 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The influence of the angular deviation of the tube during digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) acquisition to the dose in the examined breast and in other organs and tissues is not well known. In this work, the Monte Carlo method was used with an adult female virtual anthropomorphic phantom to investigate the impact of this angular variation on the breast dose. The absorbed dose in the examined breast was normalized by the air kerma, which resulted in an absorbed dose coefficient (DT/Kair) for the breast. The absorbed dose in each organ was normalized by the glandular dose in the breast, resulting in the relative organ dose (ROD). An adult female virtual anthropomorphic phantom (FSTA_M50_H50) was incorporated into a scenario containing tomosynthesis equipment with Mo/Mo, Mo/Rh, and W/Rh target/filter combinations and tube voltages of 28 kV. The comparison between the results of the simulations considering digital mammography (DM) and DBT data showed that the DT/Kair values for the examined breast obtained with the DBT parameters were up to 24 times higher than with the DT/Kair obtained with DM parameters. A DT/Kair of 0.97 × 10−1 mGy mGy−1 was obtained in a DBT exam of the right breast. Considering the other organs, the highest ROD values were observed in the thyroid (6.45 × 10−4), eyes (3.87 × 10−4), liver (1.95 × 10−5), and eye lenses (3.21 × 10−3). A variation in the absorbed dose values for the breast and other organs was observed for all projections different from 0°.
The Effect and Effectiveness of Decontaminating a Pond in a Residential Area of Fukushima
Authors: Katengeza Estiner Walusungu , Ochi Kotaro , Sanada Yukihisa , Iimoto Takeshi , Yoshinaga Shinji 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Special reconstruction and revitalization bases were designated in Fukushima’s difficult-to-return zone by the Japanese government as targets of intensive decontamination to drastically lower air dose rates and enable residents to return. A pond amid residences of one of these bases was targeted for decontamination, and this study aimed at evaluating the effect and effectiveness of the decontamination using decontamination factor, air dose rate reduction factor, and the additional annual effective dose to residents. Air dose rates were measured in situ with the second-generation Kyoto University Radiation Mapping system, while soil core samples were collected and measured for radioactivity in the laboratory by gamma spectrometry. Lower decontamination factors were observed for more deeply distributed radiocesium soil profiles, whereas areas covered with gravel demonstrated the largest reduction in air dose rates. Decontamination effectively lowered the radiocesium inventory and air dose rates by 51–93% and 37–91%, respectively. Moreover, the additional annual effective dose to the public changed from 1.7 ± 0.79 mSv to 1.2 ± 0.57 mSv because of decontamination representing a dose aversion of 29%. These findings demonstrate how decontaminating ponds in residential areas can help to further lower the external exposure.
Biomarkers of Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease in Workers Chronically Exposed to Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Oslina Darya , Rybkina Valentina , Adamova Galina , Zhuntova Galina , Bannikova Maria , Azizova Tamara 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
It is well established that cohorts of individuals exposed to ionizing radiation demonstrate increased risks of cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases. However, mechanisms of these radiation-induced diseases developing in individuals exposed to ionizing radiation remain unclear. To identify biomarkers of the atherosclerotic vessel damage in workers chronically exposed to ionizing radiation, this study considered 49 workers of the Russian nuclear production facility—the Mayak Production Association (mean age of 68.73 ± 6.92 years)—and 38 unexposed individuals (mean age of 68.84 ± 6.20 y) who had never been exposed to ionizing radiation (control). All workers were chronically exposed to combined radiation (external gamma rays and internal alpha particles). The mean cumulative liver absorbed dose from external gamma-ray exposure was 0.18 ± 0.12 Gy; the mean cumulative liver absorbed dose from internal alpha-particles was 0.14 ± 0.21 Gy. Levels of biomarkers in blood serum of the study participants were measured using the ELISA method. Elevated levels of apolipoprotein B, superoxide dismutase, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, vascular cell adhesion protein 1, and a decreased level of endothelin-1 were observed in blood serum of Mayak PA workers chronically exposed to combined radiation compared to control individuals. A significant positive correlation was demonstrated between the vascular cell adhesion protein 1 level and cumulative liver absorbed doses from external gamma radiation and internal alpha radiation. Findings of the study suggest that molecular changes in blood of individuals occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation (combined internal exposure to alpha particles and external exposure to gamma rays) may indicate dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction involved in atherosclerosis development.