bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sigmoid Type Neuromorphic Activation Function Based on Saturable Absorption Behavior of Graphene/PMMA Composite for Intensity Modulation of Surface Plasmon Polariton signals
Authors: Tari Hamed , Bile Alessandro , Moratti Francesca , Fazio Eugenio 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
For an optical technology to be feasible as a substitution of electronics one, it is required the waveguides be capable of confining and directing light signals in much smaller dimensions than the operating wavelength of the light, i.e. subwavelength optical components must be realized. One approach to miniaturize the size of the photonic components is to benefit the hybrid nature of Surface Plasmon Polariton which addresses the problem with the diffraction limit of regular photonic components. Here, the authors present a two-dimensional numerical simulation of a passive photonic element based on a saturable absorber material as an analogy to the biological neurons activation function. They demonstrate that at telecom wavelengths a highly confined SPP mode can be modulated in a nonlinear fashion by considering the carrier dynamics of graphene/PMMA polymeric composite as a two-level system. The sigmoid type nonlinear activation function derived from this study, further characterized and the parameters which appeared to be effective on the performance of the structure, such as saturation intensity, modulation depth, and thickness of the synaptic part as a Fabry-Perot structure, has been studied.
Predictive Value of Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers for Tap Test Responsiveness in Patients with Suspected Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Hua Rongrong , Liu Chunyan , Liu Xing , Zhu Jinwu , Zhang Jie , Wang Lidong , Shi Zhe , Li Jian , Kong Shuangyan , Yang Chenhui , Liu Nan , Liu Lijuan , Sun Jie , Yang Qiong , Wu Yubing , Zhou Ying , Li Yanfeng , Xing Yan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: The value of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) needs to be determined. This prospective study aimed to reveal the correlation between CSF biomarkers and clinical symptoms of iNPH, and its predictive value for tap test responsiveness.Methods: Thirty-nine suspected iNPH patients were recruited, contributed qualified CSF, and accepted a tap test and unified pre- and post-test evaluation of neurological function. Results: The analysis of biomarkers from their CSF showed a decrease of tau and its phosphorylated form, especially in the tap test (+) group. In addition, the responsiveness of the tap test was also related to the number of combined symptoms (p<0.01). A correlation was also found between the end pressure or pressure difference of CSF and tap test responsiveness (p<0.05). The results of binary logistic regression analysis showed that P (tap test responsiveness) = 1/1 + e ^ - (-5.505+55.314 * ratio of p/T-tau - 1.586 * numbers of combined symptoms). The combined indicators (-5.505+0.553* percentage of p/T-tau - 1.586 * numbers of combined symptoms) gave the highest sensitivity and specificity, which were 94.12% and 72.73%, respectively.Conclusions: It may be accessed in judgment of tap test responsiveness, which is beneficial for the feasibility of clinical application.
The Role of Opioids in Cancer Response to Immunotherapy
Authors: Botticelli Andrea , Cirillo Alessio , Pomati Giulia , Cerbelli Bruna , Scagnoli Simone , Roberto Michela , Gelibter Alain , Mammone Giulia , Calandrella Maria Letizia , Cerbelli Edoardo , Lanzetta Gaetano , Cortesi Enrico , Mezi Silvia , Marchetti Paolo 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: The response to immunotherapy can be impaired by several factors including external intervention such as drug interactions with immune system. We aimed to examine the immunomodulatory action of opioids, since immune cells express opioid receptors able to negatively influence their activities.Methods: This observational, multicenter, retrospective study, recruited patients with different metastatic solid tumors, who have received immunotherapy between September 2014 and September 2019. Immunotherapy was administered according to the standard schedule approved for each primary tumor and line of treatment. The concomitant intake of antibiotics, antifungals, corticosteroids and opioids were evaluated in all included patients. The relationship between tumor response to immunotherapy and the oncological outcomes were evaluated. A multivariate Cox-proportional hazard model was used to identify independent prognostic factors for survival. Results: One hundred ninety-three patients were recruited. Overall, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly shorter in those patients taking opioids than in those who didn’t (median PFS, 3 months vs. 19 months, HR 1.70, 95% CI 1.37-2.09, p<0.0001; median OS, 4 months vs. 35months, HR 1.60, 95 % CI 1.26-2.02, p <0.0001). In addition, PFS and OS were significantly impaired in those patients taking corticosteroids, antibiotics or antifungals, in those patients with an ECOG PS ≥1 and in patients with a high tumor burden. Using the multivariate analyses, opioids and ECOG PS were independent prognostic factors for PFS, whereas only ECOG PS resulted to be an independent prognostic factor for OS, with trend toward significance for opioids as well as tumor burden.Discussion: Our study suggests that the concomitant administration of drugs as well as some clinical features could negatively predict the outcomes of cancer patients receiving immunotherapy. In particular, opioids use during immunotherapy is associated with early progression, potentially representing a predictive factor for PFS and negatively influencing OS as well. Conclusions: A possible negative drug interaction able to impair the immune response to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents has been highlighted. Our findings suggest the need to further explore the impact of opioids on immune system modulation and their role in restoring the response to immunotherapy treatment, thereby improving patients' outcomes.
Effectiveness of Auricular Acupuncture in Treating Depressive Disorders: a Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Santos Karla Natally , Santana Mayk Rodolfo de Jesus , Brito Giselle de Carvalho , Lobato Luciana Pereira 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Depression is a chronic condition of high prevalence in the world population and associated with functional disability and compromises the physical health of affected individuals. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), depression is associated with disability, there is not enough energy for positive feelings or associated with stagnation, when there is energy, but the flow of energy and emotions is blocked. Deficiency is also associated with excess in manic depression or irregularity in depression associated with anxiety. Auricular acupuncture, also known as auriculotherapy, it is part of a set of techniques based on TCM. For this, the auricular pavilion is related to 12 meridians, stimulating points in the ear and restoring the balance between blood and Qi (energy or vital force).Methods: This is a systematic review protocol for clinical trials prepared in accordance with the guidelines of the protocol Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA-P). Studies in which participants have any depressive disorder, diagnosed through standardized criteria such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and other diagnostic criteria used internationally will be included. There will be no restrictions on age, gender, ethnicity, education or economic status. Studies will be accepted that have as experimental intervention any type of auricular acupuncture (using needles, seeds, magnetic stones, lasers, ultrasound, bleeding or electrical treatment). The control interventions that will be considered for the studies will be conventional medical treatment for each depressive disorder, no treatment, placebo and other active therapies. Discussion: Auricular acupuncture can be a potential alternative complementary treatment, it is low cost and has minimal side effects presented until now. With this review we hope to complete gaps in the knowledge of auricular acupuncture, promoting an updated and comprehensive synthesis of research on this topic. Record of systematic review: In accordance with the guidelines, our systematic review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Registry of systematic reviews (PROSPERO) on 10/27/2020 (registration number CRD42020211302).
Quality of Life in a Randomized Phase II Study to Determine the Optimal Dose of 3-Week Cycle Nab-Paclitaxel in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Taira Naruto , Kashiwabara Kosuke , Tsurutani Junji , Kitada Masahiro , Takahashi Masato , Kikawa Yuichiro , Sakata Eiko , Naito Yoichi , Hasegawa Yoshie , Saito Tsuyoshi , Iwasa Tsutomu , Takashima Tsutomu , Aihara Tomohiko , Mukai Hirofumi , Hara Fumikata 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Purpose: To report our findings on quality of life (QoL) in a randomized phase II study to determine the optimal dose of 3-week cycle nab-paclitaxel (q3w nab-PTX) in patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC).Materials and Methods: Patients with HER2-negative MBC were randomly assigned to three different doses of q3w nab-PTX (SD: 260 mg/m2 vs. MD: 220 mg/m2 vs. LD: 180 mg/m2). QoL was assessed at baseline and during the 2nd, 4th and 6th courses of treatment using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Taxane (FACT-Taxane), Cancer Fatigue Scale (CFS) and EuroQol 5-Dimension (EQ-5D). Comparisons were performed with mixed-model repeated-measures (MMRM).Results: A total of 141 patients were enrolled in the parent study, and 136 (96%) (44, 45 and 47 in the SD, MD, and LD groups) were included in the analysis. MMRM analysis showed that the difference from the baseline FACT-Taxane trial outcome index at MD and LD were significantly higher than that at SD (MD vs. SD p<0.001, LD vs. SD p<0.001). Differences from baseline for FACT-Taxane total, physical and emotional well-being, and taxane subscale scores at MD and LD were also higher than at SD. The difference from baseline for the CFS score at LD was lower than at SD (p=0.013) and those for EQ-5D utility scores at MD and LD were higher than at SD (MD vs. SD p=0.011, LD vs. SD p<0.001). Conclusion: QoL of patients treated with 220 or 180 mg/m2 of q3w nab-PTX was significantly better than that of patients treated with 260mg/m2.
Usefull Hearing Preservation Is Improved in Vestibular Schwannoma Patients Who Undergo Stereotactic Radiosurgery Before Further Hearing Deterioration Ensures
Authors: Kano Hideyuki , Ogino Akiyoshi , Long Hao , Johnson Stephen , Faramand Andrew , Niranjan Ajay , Flickinger John C. , Lunsford L. Dade 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
IntroductionThe present study evaluates whether hearing deterioration during observation reduces serviceable hearing preservation rates after stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in vestibular schwannoma (VS) patients with useful hearing.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 1447 VS patients who underwent SRS between 1992 to 2017. We identified 100 VS patients who had Grade I Gardner- Robertson (GR) hearing at initial diagnosis but were observed without surgery or SRS. We compared hearing after SRS in 67 patients who retained GR Grade I hearing from initial diagnosis to SRS (the hearing maintenance or HM group) to 33 patients whose hearing worsened from GR grade I to grade II (the hearing deterioration or HD group). We also investigated whether a decline in pure tone average (PTA) or speech discrimination score (SDS) before SRS affected hearing preservation after SRS.ResultsThe serviceable hearing (GR I and II) preservation in HM patients was 80%s, 63%, and 51% at 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. The serviceable hearing preservation in HD patients was 40%, 33%, and 20% at 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. In multivariate analysis, younger age (<55 years, p=0.012) and HM during observation (p<0.001) improved serviceable hearing preservation rates. Patients whose PTA increased >15 dB (p=0.011) or whose SDS declined >10% (p=0.024) had reduced serviceable hearing preservation rates.ConclusionsHearing deterioration during observation before SRS reduced long term hearing preservation rate in VS patients with GR grade I hearing at initial diagnosis. SRS before hearing deterioration was recommended for hearing preservation.
FASTER and SCOTT&amp;EVA Trainings for Adults with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.
Authors: Elst Ludger Tebartz van , Fangmeier Thomas , Schaller Ulrich Max , Hennig Oliver , Kieser Meinhard , Koelkebeck Katja , Kuepper Charlotte , Roesner Veit , Wildgruber Dirk , Dziobek Isabel 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental condition with a prevalence rate above 1%, characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction, restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities as well as a preference for sameness and routines. The majority of adult ASD patients suffer from comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety. Therapy options for adult ASD patients are lacking, with presently no available evidence-based interventions in Germany. Recently, two interventions to improve social responsiveness have been published. FASTER (“Freiburger Asperger-Spezifische Therapie für ERwachsene” = Freiburg Asperger specific therapy for adults) is a manualized group psychotherapy program including three modules on psychoeducation, stress regulation management as well as non-verbal and verbal social communication training with videotaped tasks. SCOTT&EVA (“Social Cognition Training Tool”, and its enhancement “Emotionen Verstehen und Ausdruecken” = understanding and expressing emotions) is a computer-based training program to enhance social cognition including video and audio material of emotional expressions and complex real-life social situations. Initial studies for both programs have shown good feasibility and efficacy. Methods: 360 adult participants with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will take part in a randomized controlled three-armed multicenter trial to prove the efficacy of manualized group psychotherapy and a manualized computer-based training program. Both interventions will be compared with a treatment as usual (TAU) group, aiming to establish evidence-based psychotherapy approaches for adult individuals with ASD. The primary outcome is evaluated by parents, spouses, or others who have sufficient insight into the respective participant’s social communication and interaction, and will be measured with the Social Responsiveness Scale. First, the differences between both interventions in comparison to TAU will be analyzed. If there are significant differences both interventions will be tested confirmatorily.Discussion: The trial is the first to validate psychiatric therapeutic options for adult ASD patients in Germany. A trial is needed because the prevalence of ASD in adulthood without intellectual disability is high, and no evidence-based intervention can be offered in Germany.Trial Registration: DRKS00017817, German Clinical Trial Register, Registered 20 April 2020, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00017817
Ethnobotanical biocultural diversity by rural communities in the Cuatrocienegas Valley, Coahuila; Mexico
Authors: Estrada-Castillón Eduardo , Villarreal-Quintanilla José Ángel , Encina-Domínguez Juan Antonio , Jurado-Ybarra Enrique , Cuéllar-Rodríguez Luis Gerardo , Garza-Zambrano Patricio , Arévalo-Sierra José Ramón , Cantú-Ayala Cesar Martín , Himmelsbach Wibke , Salinas-Rodríguez María Magdalena , Gutiérrez-Santillán Tania Vianney 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundCuatrociénegas is a region of unique biological, geological, geographical and evolutionary importance. It is part of the Chihuahua Desert, its current population is mestizo; however, it has a high historical, cultural and tourist relevance. It has been cataloged as a Flora and Fauna by Mexican law, as well as a High Protection site by the World Wildlife Fund and UNESCO. Because of its complex biological and sociocultural characteristics, we consider it important to know, determine, identify and analyze the traditional ethnobotanical knowledge and practices in this region.MethodsBetween 2016 and 2019, seven field trips were made to document the knowledge and use of flora. Cuatrociénegas is a protected area, collecting botanical material is regulated, so specimens were photographed and collected in neighboring communities, and in public and private gardens. Later permission was obtained to complete the collection of specimens (2019-2020). The plants were identified and entered into the flora database of the state of Coahuila, and deposited in the Herbarium of the Faculty of Forest Sciences, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Mexico. One hundred and ten local residents (50 men and 60 women) aged between 27 and 91 years were interviewed (semi-structured interviews). The cultural importance of ethnobotanical resources (cultural significance index) and its significance with respect to ethnobotanical richness in other Biosphere Reserves in Mexico (Mann-Whitney test) ware evaluated.Results and DiscussionThe ethnobotanical information registers 158 species and 132 genera in 57 vascular and non-vascular families, documenting a greater knowledge and use of cultivated species (84) with respect to wild species (74). The diversity of plants reported, compared to other ethnobotanical studies carried out in Biosphere Reserves, is similar. The people local pay special attention to medicinal and ornamental plants. The species that presented the highest use values are Larrea tridentata, Jatropha dioica and Machaeranthera pinnatifida, three characteristic species of the desert region.ConclusionsThe particular diversity of wild flora in Cuatrociénegas Valley, combined with the varied introduced flora, is an important multifunctional resource. Special attention to introduced species is associated with use restrictions; as well as the high value of ornamental species, difficult to maintain in desert areas. The extensive knowledge and use of ethnobotany are an example that biocultural diversity (at the conceptual level) is also, strongly associated with socio-ecological system with mestizo groups and semi-urban rural landscapes, ceasing to be exclusive to indigenous regions.
Association of body mass index with in-hospital major adverse outcomes in acute type A aortic dissection patients in Fujian Province, China: a retrospective study
Authors: Lin Lingyu , Lin Yanjuan , Chen Qiong , Peng Yanchun , Li Sailan , Chen Liangwan , Huang Xizhen 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Abnormal body mass index(BMI) has been related to a higher risk of adverse outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. However, the effects of BMI in patients with acute type A aortic dissection(AAAD) on postoperative outcomes remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the relationships between BMI and in-hospital major adverse outcomes(MAO) in AAAD patients.Methods: Patients who underwent AAAD surgery at Fujian Province Cardiac Medical Research Center from June 2013 to March 2020 were retrospectively evaluated. They were divided into three groups on the basis of Chinese BMI classification established by the World Health Organization: normal weight group(BMI 18.5-23.9 kg/m2), overweight group(BMI 24-27.9 kg/m2), and obese group(BMI ＞28kg/m2). Patients’ baseline characteristics, preoperative, operative, and postoperative data were collected. A multivariable logistic regression analysis model was performed to identify the association between BMI and MAO in AAAD patients.Results: Of 777 cases, 31.9% were normal weight, 52.5% were overweight, and 15.6% were obese. A total of 160(20.6%) patients died in-hospital. There was a significant difference between the three groups for MAO(62.9% vs 72.1% vs 77.7%, respectively; P=0.006). The incidence of postoperative complications did not differ among the three groups, except for postoperative bleeding, and prolonged mechanical ventilation, the proportion of which were higher in the overweight and obese groups. Besides, multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that a higher risk of MAO in the overweight [odds ratios(ORs):1.475, 95%CI:1.006-2.162], and obese patients(ORs:2.147, 95%CI:1.219-3.782) with reference to the normal weight patients, and age, white blood cell, prior stroke and cardiopulmonary bypass time were also associated with in-hospital MAO (P＜0.05).Conclusions: BMI is independently associated with higher in-hospital MAO in patients who underwent AAAD surgery.
Activated tamarind seed coat: a green biosorbent to remove fluoride from aqueous solutions
Authors: Srinivasulu Dasaiah , Pindi Pavan Kumar 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
A novel, inexpensive, easily available and eco-friendly biosorbent, Tamarindus indica activated seed coat, has been evaluated for its capability to remove fluoride from water. Batch experiments were carried out to study the effect of various parameters affecting the biosorption such as pH (2–10), biosorbent dose (0.05 g/L to 0.35 g/L), contact time (10–80 min) and initial fluoride concentration (0.001–0.006 g/L) for the biosorption of fluoride at room temperature. The maximum removal of fluoride was found at pH 6, biosorbent dose 0.3 g and contact time 60 min. Physicochemical characterization studies revealed the suitable morphology and chemical functional groups present on the biosorbent. Isothermal data agreed well with the Langmuir isotherm adsorption model with R2 value 0.976 and KL 0.1. The biosorption interface of fluoride onto Tamarindus indica activated seed coat obeyed the pseudo-second-order rate equation with R2 0.976. The present study demonstrates that Tamarindus indica activated seed coat can effectively remediate fluoride-contaminated water.