bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Usability and Acceptability of Oral-Based HCV Self-Testing Among Key Populations: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation in Tbilisi, Georgia
Authors: Fajardo Emmanuel , Watson Victoria , Kumwenda Moses , Usharidze Dali , Gogochashvili Sophiko , Kakhaberi David , Giguashvili Ana , Johnson Cheryl C , Jamil Muhammad S , Dacombe Russell , Stvilia Ketevan , Easterbrook Philippa , Reipold Elena Ivanova 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Hepatitis C virus self-testing (HCVST) is an additional approach that may expand access to HCV testing. We conducted a mixed-methods cross-sectional observational study to assess the usability and acceptability of HCVST among people who inject drugs (PWID), men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender (TG) people in Tbilisi, Georgia. Methods: The study was conducted from December 2019 to June 2020 among PWID at one harm reduction site and among MSM/TG at one community-based organization. We used a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Usability was assessed by observing errors made and difficulties faced by participants. Acceptability was assessed using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. A subset of participants participated in cognitive and in-depth interviews.Results: A total of 90 PWID, 84 MSM and 6 TG were observed performing HCVST. PWID were older (median age 35 vs 24) and had a lower level of education compared to MSM/TG (27% vs 59%). The proportion of participants who completed all steps successfully without assistance was 60% among PWID and 80% among MSM/TG. The most common error was in sample collection and this was observed more often among PWID than MSM/TG (21.1% vs 5.5%; p=0.002). More PWID requested assistance during HCVST compared to MSM/TG (22.2% vs 7.8%; p=0.011). Acceptability was high in both groups (98% vs 96%; p=0.407). Inter-reader agreement was 96.7% among PWID and 98.9% among MSM/TG. Qualitative data from cognitive (n=20) and in-depth interviews (n=20) was consistent with the quantitative data confirming a high usability and acceptability. Conclusions: HCVST was highly acceptable among key populations in Georgia of relatively high educational level, and most participants performed HCVST correctly. A significant difference in usability was observed among PWID compared to MSM/TG, indicating that PWID may benefit from improved messaging and education as well as options to receive direct assistance when self-testing for HCV.
Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor of the Sigmoid Colon in an Infant: A Case Report
Authors: wu luyao , meng xinyao , sun xiaoyi , zhu tianqi , yu donghai , feng jiexiong 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT), an infrequent mesenchymal lesion composed of myofibroblastic and fibroblastic spindle cells with inflammatory infiltration, mostly occurred in pediatric patients. IMT has been reported in a number of locations throughout the body. However, the cases occurred in the gastrointestinal tract, especially those involving the sigmoid colon in pediatric patients, are very rare and even have not been reported. Here we present a case of a large IMT originating from the sigmoid colon and invading the omentum and the surrounding tissues in an 11-month-old boy. Case presentation: The patient is an 11-month-old boy initially presenting with symptoms of fever and vomiting. Abdominal ultrasound revealed an inhomogeneous echo with a size of 9.9*4.6 cm in the left lower abdomen. Abdomen computed tomography (CT) scanning confirmed that a mass with a size of 10*8*6 cm located in the left middle and lower abdomen. Post-operative pathological examination confirmed the histopathologic diagnosis of IMT. Complete resection of the tumor along with the involved colon segments were performed and followed by end-to-end colon anastomosis. The boy recovered well without postoperative complications or recurrence during one-year follow-up. Conclusions: Colon IMT is extremely rare; its etiology and pathogeny are unclear. Imaging examination may provide reliable evidence for determining IMT. However, postoperative histopathologic examination is also important for the final diagnosis. Complete tumor excision, accompanied by rare recurrence and satisfying survival, is the best therapeutic approach at present. This case report may complete the clinical presentation of IMT by reminding physicians not to ignore the possibility of IMT in the colon.
PM2.5 Induced Airway Remodeling via Wnt5a/β-catenin Pathway in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases
Authors: Zou Weifeng , Wang Xiaoqian , Sun Ruiting , Hu Jinxing , Ye Dong , Liu Sha , Guo Meihua , Ran Pixin 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: PM2.5-associated airway remodeling has recently been recognized as a central feature of COPD. The activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway is closely related to the occurrence of airway remodeling. Accordingly, the goal of this study was to determine whether Wnt5a/β-Catenin is involved in PM2.5-induced smooth muscle proliferation in vivo and vitro, which promoted the development of airway remodeling in COPD.Methods: The effect of Wnt5a on β-Catenin-mediated airway remodeling was assessed by using an in vivo model of PM2.5-induced COPD and PM2.5-exposed human bronchial smooth muscle cell (HBSMC) in vitro. Small animal spirometry to measure lung function in mice. H&E staining and immunohistological inspection of emphysema and airway remodeling indexes. qPCR to detect Wnt5a, β-Catenin, TGF-β1, CyclinD1 and c-myc mRNA expression. CCK8 assay for cellular activity. Western blotting for PCNA, α-SMA, Wnt5a, β-Catenin, PDGFRβ and TenascinC protein expression. Detection of β-Catenin expression by cellular immunofluorescence.Results: The exposure to PM2.5 led to emphysema, airway wall thickening, increased smooth muscle layer thickness, decreased lung function and induced the expression of Wnt5a, β-Catenin, PDGFRβ and Tenascin C protein expression in lung tissue of mice. BOX5 alleviated PM2.5-induced these outcomes in mice. Moreover, PM2.5 induced the mRNA expression of Wnt5a, β-Catenin, TGF-β1, CyclinD1 and c-myc in HBSMC. BOX5 also inhibited PM2.5-induced the increase of PCNA, α-SMA, Wnt5a, β-Catenin, PDGFRβ and Tenascin C protein expression in HBSMC. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that PM2.5 exposure induce HBSMC proliferation, contributing to airway remodeling via Wnt5a/β-Catenin signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro, which could be a target of treatment of COPD.
Bixin Protects Mice Against Bronchial Asthma Though Modulating PI3K/Akt Pathway
Authors: Zhu Yingjie , Sun Dong , Liu Han , Sun Linzi , Jie Jing , Luo Jingjing , Peng Liping , Song Lei 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Accumulating evidence has implicated the potential of natural compounds in treatment of asthma. Bixin is a natural food coloring isolated from the seeds of Bixa Orellana, which possesses anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. Nevertheless, its therapeutic effect in asthma has not been elucidated. Methods: Acute and chronic asthma models of Balb/c mice were established by ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization. For the establishment of a glucocorticoids (GCs) resistant asthma model, Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA) was injected intraperitoneally with OVA. After Bixin treatment, cells in Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were stained with Diff Quick staining and the levels of cytokines were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The levels of protein in cells and tissues were determined by immunoblotting and/or immunostaining with specific antibodies. The histological changes were determined by Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), PAS and MASSON staining. Results: Our present study demonstrated that administration of Bixin suppressed allergic airway inflammation and reversed GCs resistance, as well as alleviated airway remodeling and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in asthmatic mice. In vitro studies showed that Bixin treatment could inhibit the development of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling. Importantly, Bixin antagonized activation of phosphatidylinositol 3‑kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway both in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions: Above all, our findings reveal that Bixin functions as a potent antagonist of PI3K/Akt signaling to protect against allergic asthma, highlighting a novel strategy for asthma treatment based on natural products.
Occupation And Occurrence of Respiratory Infections Among Adults With Newly Diagnosed Asthma
Authors: Jaakkola Maritta S. , Lajunen Taina K. , Rantala Aino K. , Nadif Rachel , Jaakkola Jouni J.K. 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Work environments are potential areas for spreading respiratory infections. We hypothesized that certain occupations increase susceptibility to respiratory infections among adults with asthma. Our objective was to compare the occurrence of respiratory infections among different occupations in adults with newly diagnosed asthma.Methods: We analysed a study population of 492 working-age adults with newly diagnosed asthma who were living in the geographically defined Pirkanmaa Area in Southern Finland during a population-based Finnish Environment and Asthma Study (FEAS). The determinant of interest was occupation at the time of diagnosis of asthma. We assessed potential relations between occupation and occurrence of both upper respiratory tract infections and lower respiratory tract infections during the past 12 months. The measures of effect were incidence rate ratio (IRR) and risk ratio (RR) adjusted for age, gender, and smoking habits. Professionals, clerks, and administrative personnel formed the reference group. Results: The mean number of common colds in the study population was 1.85 (95% CI 1.70, 2.00) infections in the last 12 months. The following occupational groups showed increased risk of common colds: forestry and related workers (aIRR 2.20, 95% CI 1.15-4.23) and construction and mining (aIRR 1.67, 95% CI 1.14-2.44). The risk of lower respiratory tract infections was increased in the following groups: glass, ceramic, and mineral workers (aRR 3.82, 95% CI 2.54-5.74), fur and leather workers (aRR 2.06, 95% CI 1.01-4.20) and metal workers (aRR 1.80, 95% CI 1.04-3.10).Conclusions: We provide evidence that the occurrence of respiratory infections is related to certain occupations.
Controlling friction and wear with anisotropic microstructures in MoN coated surfaces
Authors: Schulz Wadim , Köhn Florian , Kolb David , Balzer Martin , Riegel Harald , Albrecht Joachim 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Steel surfaces have been patterned by laser surface texturing (LST) to create anisotropic microstructures with typical dimensions of a few 10 micrometers. The subsequent deposition of thin molybdenum nitride coatings by high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) leads to surfaces that conserve the surface microstructures and exhibit an extraordinarily large resistance against mechanical wear. Tribological experiments with steel counter bodies show a substantial influence of the relative orientation of structures and wear track on friction and wear. It is pointed out that the main effect is the removal of abrasion particles from the mechanical contact. Analogue experiments with alumina counter bodies that hardly provide wear particles show that the orientation effect is absent.
Greenland's thaw pushes the biodiversity crisis
Authors: Ureta Carolina , Ramírez-Barahona Santiago , Calderón-Bustamante Óscar , Cruz-Santiago Pedro , Gay Carlos , Swingedouw Didier , DeFrance Dimitri , Cuervo-Robayo Ángela P. 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Global warming1, is reshaping the distribution of biodiversity across the world and can lead to the occurrence of large-scale singular events, such as the melting of polar ice sheets2,3. The potential impacts of such a melting event on species persistence across taxonomic groups – in terms of magnitude and geographic extent – remain unexplored. Here we assess impacts on biodiversity of global warming and melting of Greenland’s ice sheet on the distribution of 21,146 species of vascular plants and tetrapods across twelve megadiverse countries. We show that high global warming would lead to widespread reductions in species’ geographic ranges (median range loss, 35–78%), which are magnified (median range loss, 95–99%) with the added contribution of Greenland’s melting and its potentially large impact on oceanic circulation and regional climate changes. Our models project a decline in the geographical extent of species hotspots across countries (median reduction, 48–95%) and a substantial alteration of species composition in the near future (mean temporal dissimilarity, 0.26–0.89). These results imply that, in addition to global warming, the influence of Greenland’s melting can lead to the collapse of biodiversity across the globe, providing an added domino in its cascading effects.
Acoustically Manipulating Internal Structure of Disk-in-Sphere Endoskeletal Droplets
Authors: Shakya Gazendra , Yang Tao , Gao Yu , Fajrial Apresio , Li Baowen , Ruzzene Massimo , Borden Mark , Ding Xiaoyun 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Manipulation of micro/nano particles has been well studied and demonstrated by optical, electromagnetic, and acoustic approaches, or their combinations. Manipulation of internal structure of droplet/particle is rarely explored and remains challenging due to its complicated nature. Here we demonstrated the manipulation of internal structure of disk-in-sphere endoskeletal droplets using acoustic wave for the first time. We developed a model to investigate the physical mechanisms behind this novel phenomenon. Theoretical analysis of the acoustic interactions indicated that these assembly dynamics arise from a balance of the primary and secondary radiation forces. Additionally, the disk orientation was found to change with acoustic driving frequency, which allowed on-demand, reversible adjusting disk orientations with respect to the substrate. This novel dynamic behavior leads to unique reversible arrangements of the endoskeletal droplets and their internal architecture, which may provide a new avenue for directed assembly of novel hierarchical colloidal architectures and intracellular organelles or intra-organoid structures.
Galaxy lacking dark matter in the standard cosmological paradigm
Authors: Moreno Jorge , Danieli Shany , Bullock James , Feldmann Robert , Hopkins Philip , Catmabacak Onur , Gurvich Alexander , Lazar Alexandres , Klein Courtney , Hummels Cameron , Hafen Zachary , Mercado Francisco , Yu Sijie , Jiang Fangzhou , Wheeler Coral , Wetzel Andrew , Angles-Alcazar Daniel , Boylan-Kolchin Michael , Eliot Quataert , Faucher-Giguere Claude-Andre , Keres Dusan 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
The standard cold dark matter plus cosmological constant model predicts that galaxies form within dark matter halos and that low-mass galaxies are more dark-matter dominated than massive ones. The unexpected discovery of two low-mass galaxies lacking dark matter immediately provoked concerns about the standard cosmology and ignited explorations of alternatives, including self-interacting dark matter and modified gravity. Apprehension grew after several simulations using the conventional cosmology failed to adequately form numerical analogs. Here we show that the standard paradigm naturally produces galaxies lacking dark matter, with characteristics largely in agreement with observations. Using a state-of-the-art cosmological simulation and a meticulous galaxy-identification technique, we find that extreme close-encounters with massive neighbors can transform regular galaxies into dark-matter deficient ones. We predict that ∼30% of massive central galaxies (with at least 1e11 solar masses in stars) harbor at least one dark-matter deficient satellite (with 1e8−1e9 solar masses in stars). This distinctive class of galaxies opens an additional layer to our understanding of the role of interactions in shaping galactic properties. Future observations surveying galaxies in the aforementioned regime will provide a crucial test of this scenario.
Investigation of Pharmacological Mechanisms of Schisandrin a for the Treatment of Asthma Determined by Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation
Authors: Qiu Qing , Huang Fangfang , Su Jiating , Lin Qianwen , Huang Yuge , luo lianxiang 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) are increasingly applied and accepted in asthma prevention and treatment. In the present investigation, we aimed to evaluate the effects of schisandrin A against asthma and examine its underlying mechanism. Here, 68 intersection targets between schisandrin A and asthma were identified by network pharmacology. Further enrichment analysis demonstrated that the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) signaling pathway may be a major signaling pathway and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2/PTGS2) may be a key target in the anti-asthmatic mechanism of schisandrin A. Then, the relevant mechanisms were verified. In vitro, we found that schisandrin A knock down the expression of COX-2 and iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase) in 16 HBE cells and RAW264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. While, it ameliorated the epithelial barrier function injury, and reduced the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway effectively. Additionally, OVA-induced asthma mice model showed that inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus secretion as well as airway remodeling could be availably suppressed by schisandrin A treatment. In conclusion, our data suggested that schisandrin A can reduce asthma symptoms by inhibiting inflammation production, including lowering the Th2 cell ratio, which provides a basis for further understanding of the treatment of asthma with schisandrin A.
Mediation Effect of Obesity on the Association Between Triglyceride-glucose Index and Hyperuricemia in Chinese Hypertension Adults.
Authors: Sun Jin , Su Yongkang , Li Man , Ma Shouyuan , Zhang Yan , Zhang Anhang , Cai Shuang , Cheng Bokai , Bao Qiligeer , Wang Shuxia , Zhu Ping 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: The triglyceride glucose (TyG) index was regarded as a simple surrogate marker of insulin resistance (IR). It is confirmed that IR was significantly associated with hyperuricemia, and obesity was the risk factor for IR and hyperuricemia. However, the relationship of TyG index and hyperuricemia and the potential role of obesity in Han Chinese hypertension are not entirely elucidated.Method：A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 4551 hypertension patients aged 40-75 years with clinical and biochemical data. The TyG index was calculated as ln [fasting triglyceride (mg/dl) × fasting blood glucose (mg/dl)/2]. Hyperuricemia was determined as serum uric acid ≥357μmol/L (6 mg/dl) for females and ≥417μmol/L (7 mg/dl) for males. Body mass index (BMI), waist (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were regarded as obesity indexes, to evaluate the mediation effect of the association between TyG index and hyperuricemia.Result：The TyG index was higher in patients with hyperuricemia than in those without (8.99±0.61, 8.70±0.59, P<0.001). The prevalence of hyperuricemia in patients with the lowest (≤8.32), second (8.33-8.66), the third (8.67-9.07) and the highest quartile (≥9.08) of TyG index was 6.0%, 10.4%, 15.4%, 21.4%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis suggested that the higher quartile of TyG index were associated with increased hyperuricemia risk whether in crude or adjusted models (P<0.05). Mediation analysis showed that all of our obesity indexes partially mediated the association between TyG index and hyperuricemia to some extent.Conclusion：TyG index is significantly associated with hyperuricemia in hypertension patients among Han Chinese, obesity plays a partial mediation role in this relationship.
Impact of Targeted Antibiotic Therapy and Infectious Diseases Specialist Input in the Management of Cystic Neutrophilic Granulomatous Mastitis
Authors: Lever Robert Andrew , Ryan Rebecca , Rathbone Victoria , Mahadeva Ula , Franks Joanna , Morris-Jones Stephen , Khiroya Reena , Brown Michael 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Objectives: Cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis (CNGM) is a rare cause of destructive inflammatory breast disease which has been linked to the presence of lipophilic Corynebacteria which often show broad resistance to antibiotics. Antibiotic therapy is frequently utilised as an adjunct to surgical management however there is a lack of reported data on optimal antimicrobial strategies and recovery is often prolonged. Methods: We developed a management strategy in a tertiary infectious diseases unit to identify potential Corynebacteria-related CNGM pathology and took a targeted antibiotic-led approach to treatment. Clinical, laboratory, imaging, and therapeutic data were collected retrospectively from patients seen in our clinic between 2016-2020. Results: Thirteen patients were identified who met criteria for the diagnosis of CNGM. The mean age was 42.6 years and all patients were female. All had bacteriological evidence of Corynebacteria infection or granulomatous findings on histology. Microbiological evidence of Corynebacteria was present in 76.9%. Antibiotics were used as first line therapy in 92.6%, with a variety of agents used. Steroids were used as an adjunctive therapy in 53.8%. Most patients underwent surgical drainage or clinic-based aspiration of an abscess as part of their treatment. Eleven of thirteen patients (84.6%) experienced complete resolution of symptoms however recovery was protracted with a median time to resolution of >6 months. Conclusions: We present a case series of a rare clinical entity, CNGM, and highlight the outcomes of implementation of an antibiotic and infection service-led clinical approach in these patients.