bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Weight Per Volume and Protein Nitrogen Units in Non-standardized Allergen Extracts: Implications for Prescribing Subcutaneous Immunotherapy
Authors: Dua Benny , Park Jane , Kim Harold 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundAllergen extracts used in subcutaneous immunotherapy are standardized or non-standardized. Standardized extracts are available in specific biological potencies, presumably making their biological activity more consistent. The majority of allergen extracts are non-standardized and may have less consistent potencies. Non-standardized extracts are labeled as weight per volume or protein nitrogen units (PNUs). Neither method allows for any direct information regarding the extract’s biologic potency. The purpose of this study was to compare weight per volume versus PNU concentrations for 4 non-standardized allergen extracts prepared by two allergen manufacturers. The potencies were compared in application in current North American practice recommendations.MethodsThe weight per volume and PNU values were provided for 4 non-standardized extracts – birch, short ragweed, dog hair and Alternaria – from HollisterStier and Stallergenes Greer. Weight per volume and PNU concentrations were compared for each of these extracts from both manufacturers. From the raw data, we calculated the corresponding PNU values for a weight per volume of 1:100 and 1:200 for each extract. Similarly, we calculated the corresponding weight per volume for a range of PNU values, for 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 and 5000 PNU/ml.ResultsBirch extract has low PNU concentration, below 5000, for a weight per volume of 1:200 for both HollisterStier and Stallergenes Greer. In contrast, for both HollisterStier and Stallergenes Greer ragweed extract, a weight per volume of 1:200 corresponds to a PNU concentration greater than 5000. Dog extract for a weight per volume of 1:200, and even for 1:100, corresponds to very low PNUs for both companies. For Alternaria, corresponding PNU concentrations for HollisterStier is low at only 500 while over 5000 for Stallergenes Greer. Corresponding weight per volumes for PNU values for these extracts can be found in the manuscript.Conclusions Our results show variability when comparing weight per volume and PNU concentrations for both Hollister-Stier and Stallergenes Greer products. We suggest selecting a PNU dose that corresponds to a weight per volume of 1:200 as this may improve patient safety. Our recommendations for starting PNU dose for the four non-standardized extracts are highlighted in the manuscript. If the starting PNU concentration is considerably below 5000 for a weight per volume of 1:200 slow up-titration is advised. Conversely, for PNU concentrations above 5000 for weight per volume of 1:200 we suggest a maintenance dose of 5000 PNU.
An Overwhelming Infection After Laparoscopic Transvaginal Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction Procedure for Right Hemi-colonic Radical Resection: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Shi Jian , Li Jian-Nan , Wang Min , Yu Ling-Yun , Han Xu , Zhao Ze-Yun , Yang Ting-Ting , Liu Tong-Jun , Yang Yong-Ping 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BACKGROUNDLaparoscopic transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) procedure, as one of sub-surgical procedure selections of NOSE, has been well discussed recently. Although most studies argued receiving better post-surgical outcomes than laparoscopic right hemi-colonic radical resection, disadvantages of laparoscopic transvaginal NOSE have seldom been reported. Herein, we reported a case with an overwhelming infection after laparoscopic transvaginal NOSE, even leading a sudden cardiac arrest, and also performed a review of the literature of NOSE, in hopes of expending experience with NOSE for every general surgeon.CASE PRESENTATIONA 78-year-old female patient was diagnosis with ascending colon carcinoma (cT3N0M0). After pre-surgical preparation, a laparoscopic transvaginal NOSE was performed. At the 1st day post-surgery, a septic shock was manifested, with an acute cardiac failure. An intensive care unit therapy was given immediately, including anti-inflammatory therapy, anti-shock therapy, cardiac functional supporting therapy. At the 2nd day post-surgery, there was a sudden cardiac arrest. A cardiac emergency treatment was immediately given to her, following a comprehensive therapy. After a supporting treatment, this patient was discharged from our department at 12 days post-surgically, with a normal manifestation of blood pressure level, breath rate, heart rate, body temperature, white blood cell count, et al. However, a complaint of intermittent precordial pain still existed when discharging from our department. She was transferred to cardiovascular medicine department for a further treatment on cardiac function then. After another 18 days treatment, she left from hospital.CONCLUSIONSConsidering many clinical trials on NOSE with positive clinical outcomes, NOSE was recommended to an optional surgical treatment for gastrointestinal carcinoma. However, this case report reminders general surgeons that post-surgical complications to NOSE, some are even fatal, still has possibility to come out. A thorough evaluation pre-operationally and an appropriate therapy post-operationally are crucial and inevitable.
Investigation of Surface Plasmon Polaritons based Gas sensor: Far and Near field Analysis
Authors: Afsheen Sumera , Iqbal Tahir , Khalid Anum , Ijaz Mohsin , Bashir Almas , Abrar Muhammad , Tahir Muhammad Bilal , Tehseen Aqsa , Zafar Maria , Iqbal Khalid , Rafique Muhammad 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This research work reports the plasmonic-based biosensing using attenuated total reflection (ATR). A photon beam falls on the metallic film through an angle higher than critical angle of glass. SPPs are produced along the metal/analyte interface. An optimum gold (Au) film has been used to sense the refractive index of analyte lying next to it while utilizing the sensitivity power of electric field of the surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs). Such Nanoplasmonic devices have been designed and optimized utilizing finite element analysis (FEA) in licensed version of COMSOL 5.4, RF module. Reflection spectra have been extracted for far-field analysis, whereas shift in the position of SPP dip has been exploited to compute sensitivity of the device. By controlling the film thickness and angle of light incidence, the sensitivity of the device is enhanced. It is worth mentioning that the spectral range was brought in visible region where most of the practical devices work very well. The sensitivity of 18200 nm/RIU has been achieved for optimum angle and gold film thickness. Hence such devices have various sensing applications in medical diagnostics.
Visualization and Validation of Twin Nucleation and Early-stage Growth in Magnesium
Authors: Jiang Lin , Wang Jian , Wang Jian , Pan Zhiliang , Wang Xin , Zhang Dalong , Wang Y , Ciston Jim , Minor Andrew , Xu Mingjie , Pan Xiaoqing , Rupert Timothy , Mahajan Subhash , Lavernia Enrique , Beyerlein Irene , Schoenung Julie 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The abrupt occurrence of twinning when Mg is deformed leads to a highly anisotropic response, making it too unreliable for structural use and too unpredictable for observation. Here, we describe an in-situ transmission electron microscopy experiment on Mg crystals with strategically designed geometries for visualization of a long-proposed but unverified twinning mechanism. Combining with atomistic simulations and topological analysis, we conclude that twin nucleation occurs through a pure-shuffle mechanism that requires prismatic-basal transformations. Also, we verified a crystal geometry dependent twin growth mechanism, that is the early-stage growth associated with instability of plasticity flow, which can be dominated either by slower movement of prismatic-basal boundary steps, or by faster glide-shuffle along the twinning plane. The fundamental understanding of twinning provides a pathway to understand deformation from a scientific standpoint and the microstructure design principles to engineer metals with unprecedented combinations of properties from a technological standpoint.
Sex-Biased Expression of Genes Allocated in the Autosomal Chromosomes: Lc-ms/ms Protein Profiling in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Giha Hayder Ahmed , Abdulwahab Rabab Asghar , Abbas Jaafar , Shinwari Zakia , Alaiya Ayodele 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Sex and gender has large impact in human health and disease prediction. Men differ from women by a limited number of genes in Y chromosome while their phenotypes differ markedly. In this study, serum samples from healthy Bahraini men and women were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Bioinformatics databases were used for proteins/peptides (PPs) identification and their gene localization. Results revealed that, the PPs which differed significantly (p<0.05 ANOVA) in abundance with fold change (FC) of ³1.5, were twenty, 11 were up-regulated in women (up to 8-folds), and 9 were up-regulated in men but with much lower FC, however, all PPs are encoded by genes located in autosomal chromosomes, indicative of sex-biased gene expression. The only PP related to sex, the sex hormone-binding globulin, was up-regulated in women. The remaining PPs were involved in immunity (6), lipid metabolism (5), gene expression (3) connective tissue (3), and others. The identified PPs were discussed within their physiological and pathological context, in relation to sex e.g. Apo-B100 (pathological cholesterol) was unregulated in men while the inflammatory/immunity related PPs, including Alpha-1-acid glycoproteins, were up-regulated in women. Finally, we propose proteomic as an ideal complementary tool for study of the molecular basis of the sex-biased gene expression.
Does a “Cushion Effect” Really Exist? A Morphomic Analysis of Vulnerable Road Users with Serious Blunt Abdominal Injury
Authors: Tee Yu-San , Cheng Chi-Tung , Hsieh Chi-Hsun , Kang Shih-Ching , FU CHIH-YUAN , Derstine Brian A. , Su Grace L. , Wang Stewart C. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background: The severity of injury from motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) depends on complex biomechanical factors, and the body features of the injured person account for some of these factors. By assuming that vulnerable road users (VRU) have limited protection resulting from vehicle and safety equipment, the current study analyzed the characteristics of fat distribution measured by computed tomography (CT) imaging and investigated the existence of a “Cushion effect” in VRU.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 592 VRU involved in MVCs who underwent CT scans. Visceral fat area and subcutaneous fat cross-sectional area were measured and adjusted according to total body area (TBA) and are presented as the visceral fat ratio and the subQ fat ratio (subcutaneous fat ratio). Risk factors for serious abdominal injury [maximum abbreviated injury scale (MAISabd ≥ 3)] resulting from MVCs were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis.Results: MAISabd ≥ 3 was observed in 104 (17.6%) of the patients. The SubQ fat ratio at the L4 vertebral level was significantly lower in the MAISabd ≥ 3 group than in the MAISabd < 3 group (24.9 ± 12.0 vs 28.1 ± 11.9%; p=0.015). A decreased L4 subQ fat ratio was associated with a higher risk for MAISabd ≥ 3 in multivariate analysis (odds ratio 0.063; 95% CI 0.008-0.509; p = 0.009).Conclusion: The current study supported the “Cushion effect” theory, and protection was apparently provided by subcutaneous fat tissue. This concept may further improve vehicle and safety designation in the future.
Electricity Demand Prediction of Smart Grid in Smart Cities Using K-means Algorithm
Authors: Wang Shurui , Song Aifeng , Qian Yufeng 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The aims are to unify big data management among various departments in smart city construction, establish a centralized data collection and sharing system, and provide fast and convenient big data services for smart applications in various fields. The national grid industry is taken as the research object. A new electricity demand prediction model is proposed based on smart city big data’s characteristics. This model integrates meteorological, geographic, demographic, corporate, and economic information to form an intelligent big database. The K-mean algorithm mines and analyzes the data to optimize the electricity user information. The electricity prediction model is established using the Backpropagation (BP) neural network algorithm. The electricity market is evaluated through an in-depth exploration of data relationships to verify the effectiveness of the model proposed. Results demonstrate that the K-mean algorithm can significantly improve electricity user segmentation accuracy, separate the different regional electricity consumption, and categorize different electricity users. The electricity demand network model constructed can significantly improve the prediction accuracy, and the mean error rate is 3.2671%. The model’s training time improved by the additional momentum factor is significantly reduced, and the mean error rate is 2.13%. The above results can provide a theoretical and practical basis for electricity demand prediction and personalized marketing, as well as development planning for the electricity sector.
Comparison of FOLFIRINOX, Gemcitabine Plus Nab-Paclitaxel, and Chemoradiotherapy as First-Line Treatments for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Nakano Shintaro , Komatsu Yoshito , Kawamoto Yasuyuki , Saito Rika , Ito Ken , Nakatsumi Hiroshi , Harada Kazuaki , Yuki Satoshi , Sakamoto Naoya 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Currently, it is unclear whether chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is the optimal first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In this study, we compared the efficacy and safety of FOLFIRINOX (FFX), gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GnP), and CRT as first-line treatments for locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Methods: We evaluated patients receiving FFX, GnP, or CRT, and assessed treatment efficacy in terms of overall survival and progression-free survival. Safety was evaluated using the Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.0). Results: Fifty-five patients were included in the analysis (10 for FFX, 25 for GnP, and 20 for CRT). The median overall survival was 7.1, 16.9, and 20.0 months in the FFX, GnP, and CRT groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in overall survival between the FFX and GnP groups (HR: 0.503, 95% CI: 0.205–1.238, p = 0.135), FFX and CRT groups (HR: 0.518, 95% CI: 0.213–1.256, p = 0.136), or GnP and CRT groups (HR: 0.993, 95% CI: 0.451–2.188, p = 0.987). The 1-year survival rates were 40%, 64%, and 60%, whereas the 2-year survival rates were 0%, 16%, and 35% in the FFX, GnP, and CRT groups, respectively. Conclusions: Both chemotherapy and CRT were effective and well tolerated. Thus, the combination of intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be a beneficial treatment strategy.
Telling Apart the Bad from the Good Guys Behind the Spraying Mist
Authors: Benzing Albrecht , Piepho Hans-Peter , Malik Waqas Ahmed , Finckh Maria R. , Mittelhammer Manuel , Strempel Dominic , Jaschik Johannes , Neuendorff Jochen , Guamán Liliana , Mancheno José , Melo Luis , Pavón Omar , Cangahuamín Roberto , Ullauri Juan-Carlos 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Residues of pesticides not allowed in organic farming are often found in organic food. A large number of samples are being tested by organic certifiers, but the sampling methods often do not allow to determine if such residues stem from prohibited pesticide use by organic farmers, from mixing organic with conventional products, from short-range spray-drift from neighbour farms, from the ubiquitous presence of such substances due to long-distance drift, or from other sources of contamination. Eight case studies from different crops and countries are used to demonstrate that sampling at different distances from possible sources of short distance drift allows in most cases to differentiate deliberate pesticide application by the organic farmer from drift. Datasets from 67 banana farms in Ecuador, where aerial fungicide spraying leads to a heavy drift problem, were subjected to statistical analysis. A linear discriminant function including four variables was identified for distinguishing under these conditions application from drift, with an accuracy of 93.3%.
Complex Structure of PDE3A–SLFN12 and Structure-based Molecular Glue Design for Apoptosis of Tumor Cells
Authors: Chen Jie , Liu Nan , Li Dianrong , Wang Yuanxun , Sun Yuxing , Wu Qingcui , Huang Yinpin , Wang Hong-Wei , Huang Niu , Qi Xiangbing , Wang Xiaodong 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Molecular glue is a class of small molecular drugs that mediate the protein-protein interactions. It can induce target proteins degradation or stabilization. Anagrelide, as a known phosphodiesterase 3A (PDE3A) inhibitor, is a drug used for the treatment of essential thrombocytosis. Here, we report Anagrelide induces cell death directly binding to PDE3A, which stabilizes protein Schlafen 12 (SLFN12). The high-resolution cryo-EM maps indicates that the interaction of PDE3A and SLFN12 exhibits a butterfly-like shape, to form a heterotetramer. Structure analysis showed that Anagrelide, as a new molecular glue, packs in a shallow pocket of PDE3A in the catalytic domain and the resulting modified interface binds SLFN12 through the short helix (E552-I558) of SLFN12. Based on the structure, we designed and synthesized the Anagrelide analogues with hydrophobic substitutes at 7-position. The p-tolyl substitution (compound A6) had the best improvement of around 20 folds, which IC50 is around 0.3 nM. Our studies revealed a new strategy to identify and develop a new molecular glue for targeted protein stabilization.
Empirical Examination of the Relationship Between Venture Capital Financing and the Profitability of the Portfolio Companies in Uganda
Authors: Kato Ahmed Idi , Germinah Chiloane-Phetla E 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
PurposeThis paper empirically examined the relationship between Venture capital Financing and the profitability of portfolio companies in Uganda. Several empirical works paint an intriguing picture that VC financing is a reality in fostering economic growth of the early-stage enterprisesDesign/methodology/approachThe paper embraced a mixed-method wherein quantitative data were collected from 68 key VC stakeholders and statistical data was analysed using a multiple regression model by generating the results from the SPSS. This was supplemented by 16 semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Qualitative data were transcribed and analysed using Altas-ti.Findings The key findings from this study suggest superior performance of VC-financed enterprises following VC financing when compared to non-VC financed enterprises. The VC-financed enterprises realised tremendous growth in terms of: Return on Equity - 42.3%; profitability - 30% - 50%; Return on Assets - 44.5%. In addition, 63% of the respondents confirmed a positive impact of government regulatory policy in enhancing the development of the early-stage firms. The higher the percentage of growth the better for the growth of the company. Research limitations/implicationsThis study may assist the policymakers and business fraternity to develop policy frameworks tailored to enhancing a vibrant venture capital market in Uganda. Contribution/value-addThis study makes a vital contribution to knowledge by offering a diversified framework for enterprise success, to benefit the VC stakeholders in customizing funding programs that can propel the early-stage enterprise success in Uganda and similar emerging economies.
Treadmill Running Induces Remodeling of the Infrapatellar Fat Pad in an Intensity-dependent Manner
Authors: Zeng Ni , Liao Tao , Chen Xin-yuan , Yan Zhi-peng , Li Jie-ting , Ni Guo-xin 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Objective: To investigate the response of the infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) to running at different intensities and further explore the underlying mechanisms of these responses under different running-induced loadings.Methods: Animals were randomly assigned into the sedentary (SED), low-intensity running (LIR), medium-intensity running (MIR), and high-intensity running (HIR) groups. Rats in the LIR, MIR, and HIR groups were subjected to an 8 week treadmill running protocol. In each group, the IFP was examined at the baseline and the 8th week to perform histomorphology, immunohistochemistry, and mRNA expression analyses.Results: Compared with LIR and MIR, HIR for 8 weeks led to a considerable increase in the surface cellularity (1.67±1.15), fibrosis (1.29±0.36), and vascularity (33.31±8.43) of the IFP but did not increase IFP inflammation or M1 macrophage polarization. Compared with the SED group, low-to-medium running resulted in unchanged or decreased fibrosis, vascularity, and surface cellularity in the IFP. Furthermore, serum leptin and visfatin levels were significantly lower in the LIR and MIR groups than in the SED group or HIR group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The effect of running on IFP remodeling was intensity dependent. Contrary to LIR and MIR, HIR increased the fibrosis and vascularity of the IFP. The HIR-induced IFP fibrosis was probably due to mechanical stress, rather than pathologic proinflammatory M1/M2 polarization.
Appropriateness for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination for Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeons in case of Pregnancy, Breastfeeding or Childbearing potential: YO-IFOS and CEORL-HNS joint clinical consensus statement
Authors: saibene alberto maria , Allevi Fabiana , Ayad Tareck , Baudoin Tomislav , Bernal-Sprekelsen Manuel , Briganti Giovanni , Carrie Sean , Cayé-Thomasen Per , Saidi Sara Dahman , Dauby Nicolas , Fenton John , Golusiński Wojciech , Klimek Ludger , Leclerc Andrée-Anne , Longtin Yves , Mannelli Giuditta , Mayo-Yáñez Miguel , Meço Cem , Metwaly Osama , Mouawad François , Niemczyk Kazimierz , Pedersen Ulrik , Piersiala Krzysztof , Plzak Jan , Remacle Marc , Rommel Nathalie , Saleh Hesham , Szpecht Dawid , Tedla Miro , Tincati Camilla , Tucciarone Manuel , Zelenik Karol , Lechien Jerome R. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose: SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are a key step in fighting the pandemic. Nevertheless, their rapid development did not allow for testing among specific population subgroups such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, or elaborating specific guidelines for healthcare personnel working in high infection risk specialties, such as otolaryngology (ORL). This clinical consensus statement (CCS) aims to offer guidance for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination to this high-risk population based on the best evidence available.Methods: A multidisciplinary international panel of 33 specialists judged statements through a 2-rounds modified Delphi method survey. Statements were designed to encompass the following topics: risk of SARS-Cov-2 infection and use of protective equipment in ORL; SARS-Cov-2 infection and vaccines and respective risks for the mother/child dyad; and counseling for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pregnant, breastfeeding, or fertile healthcare workers (PBFHW). All ORL PBFHW were considered as the target audience.Results: Of the 13 statements, 7 reached consensus or strong consensus, 2 reached noConsensus and 2 reached near-consensus. According to the statements with strong consensus Otorhinolaryngologists – Head & Neck Surgeons who are pregnant, breastfeeding or with childbearing potential should have the opportunity to receive SARS-Cov-2 vaccination. Moreover, personal protective equipment (PPE) should still be used even after the vaccination.Conclusion: Until prospective evaluations on these topics are available, ORL-HNS must be considered a high infection risk specialty. While the use of PPE remains pivotal, ORL PBFHW should be allowed access to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination provided they receive up-to-date information.