bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The challenge of choosing in cardiovascular risk management
Authors: Hoogeveen R. M. , Hanssen N. M. J. , Brouwer J. R. , Mosterd A. , Tack C. J. , Kroon A. A. , de Borst G. J. , ten Berg J. , van Trier T. , van Lennep J. Roeters , Liem A. , Serné E. , Visseren F. L. J. , Cornel J. H. , Peters R. J. G. , Jukema J. W. , Stroes E. S. G. ,   the PANORAMA working group
Published: July 2021

AbstractCardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. For many years guidelines have listed optimal preventive therapy. More recently, novel therapeutic options have broadened the options for state-of-the-art CV risk management (CVRM). In the majority of patients with CVD, risk lowering can be achieved by utilising standard preventive medication combined with lifestyle modifications. In a minority of patients, add-on therapies should be considered to further reduce the large residual CV risk. However, the choice of which drug combination to prescribe and in which patients has become increasingly complicated, and is dependent on both the absolute CV risk and the reason for the high risk. In this review, we discuss therapeutic decisions in CVRM, focusing on (1) the absolute CV risk of the patient and (2) the pros and cons of novel treatment options.
Enhancing Firm Performance Through Adoption of Innovation: an Empirical Evidence from Indian Biotechnological Firms
Authors: Narayan Aishwarya , Hungund Sumukh 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThis paper explores the influence of innovation approaches on innovation performance and firm performance among Indian biotechnology firms. Further, it aims to discuss the interceding role of innovation performance between innovation practices and firm performance. A criteria-based snowball sampling method was adopted for data collection. The collection of data was carried out using a web survey from 200 biotechnology firms located across India. The data is analysed using a covariance-based structural equation modelling (SEM) technique. The results indicate that the adoption of innovation practices positively influences the firms’ innovation and overall performance. Furthermore, the results confirm the mediating role of innovation performance between innovation approach adoption and firm performance. Firms, particularly from the biotechnology industry, can use these results to assess their performance and formulate or modify their strategy to improve their innovation and overall performance.
Establishing Background Pathologic Changes of Valve Replacement Surgery in Sheep
Authors: Faustich Jill T. Schappa , Carney John P. , Lahti Matthew T. , Zhang Benjamin L. , Bianco Richard W. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Purpose
Sheep are the standard preclinical model for assessing safety of novel replacement heart valves, yet the anatomic and pathologic effects of invasive surgery, including those involving cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), are unknown. Thus, we aimed to determine the gross, hematologic and biochemical effects of sham mitral and aortic replacement valve procedures in sheep to establish a useful control for evaluation of novel replacement valves.

Methods
Six control sheep were examined without any surgical intervention. Six sham mitral valve replacements (MVR) and six sham aortic valve replacements (AVR) were performed on 12 sheep. Complete blood counts and serum biochemistry were performed throughout the study. Sheep were sacrificed with a necropsy performed at 90 days.

Results
Renal infarcts (RIs) were the most frequently observed lesion, averaging 4.7 in control sheep, 2.5 with MVR and 5.8 with AVR. The number of infarcts strongly correlated with total estimated area of infarcted kidney (r = .84, p < .01). Additional cardiac interventions were significantly correlated with increased numbers of RIs (r = .85, p < .01). There was no correlation between number of RIs and time on CPB, or between AVR and MVR procedures.

Conclusion
The sheep model for AVR and MVR requires invasive surgery and CPB, which are associated with background anatomic and pathologic changes, especially in cases with additional surgical cardiac interventions. These findings serve as a critical control for future evaluation and development of novel replacement valves in order to distinguish device-related safety issues from expected outcomes of the surgical procedure and normal background changes in sheep.
The Search for Putative Hits in Combating Leishmaniasis: The Contributions of Natural Products Over the Last Decade
Authors: Sakyi Patrick O. , Amewu Richard K. , Devine Robert N. O. A. , Ismaila Emahi , Miller Whelton A. , Kwofie Samuel K. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Despite advancements in the areas of omics and chemoinformatics, potent novel biotherapeutic molecules with new modes of actions are needed for leishmaniasis. The socioeconomic burden of leishmaniasis remains alarming in endemic regions. Currently, reports from existing endemic areas such as Nepal, Iran, Brazil, India, Sudan and Afghanistan, as well as newly affected countries such as Peru, Bolivia and Somalia indicate concerns of chemoresistance to the classical antimonial treatment. As a result, effective antileishmanial agents which are safe and affordable are urgently needed. Natural products from both flora and fauna have contributed immensely to chemotherapeutics and serve as vital sources of new chemical agents. This review focuses on a systematic cross-sectional view of all characterized anti-leishmanial compounds from natural sources over the last decade. Furthermore, IC50/EC50, cytotoxicity and suggested mechanisms of action of some of these natural products are provided. The natural product classification includes alkaloids, terpenes, terpenoids, and phenolics. The plethora of reported mechanisms involve calcium channel inhibition, immunomodulation and apoptosis. Making available enriched data pertaining to bioactivity and mechanisms of natural products complement current efforts geared towards unraveling potent leishmanicides of therapeutic relevance.

Graphic Abstract
Study on the cardboard behavior during the vacuum picking process in automatic pantyhose packaging machine
Authors: Wu Shiqing , Li Peixing 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThis study presents a use case of Finite Element Method and comparative experimental studies on a subproblem in packaging machines. The variables in the vacuum picking system including baffle height, back pressure and friction between sheets are evaluated through simulations and experiments. It is found that baffle height, back pressure F and friction between sheets are all critical in successful operation of vacuum picking cardboards from in-feed magazine. This study is of some practical value for the implementation of vacuum picking board sheets from in-feed magazine on many types of packaging machinery.
Drug delivery systems for the photodynamic application of two photosensitizers belonging to the porphyrin family
Authors: Malacarne Miryam Chiara , Banfi Stefano , Rugiero Matteo , Caruso Enrico 
Published: July 2021

AbstractPhotodynamic therapy involves the concomitant action of three components, light with an appropriate wavelength, molecular oxygen, and a molecule, able to absorb an electromagnetic radiation, called photosensitizer (PS). A fundamental aspect is the bioavailability of the PS that is directly related to some physicochemical properties of the PS itself as it should feature a certain degree of lipophilicity to easily cross the cell membrane, however, at the same time, should be sufficiently water-soluble to navigate in the bloodstream. Consequently, the use of a system for drug delivery becomes essential when photosensitizers with a high degree of lipophilicity are considered. In this work, we present three different drug delivery systems, microemulsions, emulsions and liposomes all capable of carrying a PS belonging to the porphyrin family: the tetraphenyl porphyrin (TPP) and the 4-hydroxyphenyl porphyrin (THPP), which show a relevant different degree of lipophilicity. A series of microemulsions (ME) and emulsions (E) were prepared, among which two formulations, one for THPP and one for TPP, have been chosen. The stability of these two carriers was monitored over time and under various temperature conditions. With the same criteria, two liposomal formulations have been also identified and analyzed. The four formulations mentioned above (one ME, one E and two liposomes) have been tested on SKOV3 tumor cell line comparing the photodynamic activity of the porphyrin formulations versus the aqueous/organic (DMSO) solution of the same two PSs. The results show that all the formulations have proved to be excellent carriers and that the liposomal formulation enhance the photodynamic efficacy of both porphyrins.
How the COVID-19 Pandemic Affects Sexual Behavior of Hetero-, Homo-, and Bisexual Males in Germany
Authors: Mumm Jan-Niclas , Vilsmaier Theresa , Schuetz Julius M. , Rodler Severin , Zati Zehni Alaleh , Bauer Ricarda M. , Staehler Michael , Stief Christian G. , Batz Falk 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic drastically altered the way of life around the world. Due to social distancing measures, contact restrictions and fears of infection, social life has changed significantly. These measures along with the stressors associated with the current worldwide situation, will inevitably have an effect on people's interpersonal and personal behaviors.

Aim
This study evaluates the effect the COVID-19 pandemic and nationwide German lockdown had on the sexual behavior of cis men.

Methods
An anonymous nationwide web-based questionnaire was conducted among cis men in Germany during the first COVID-19 home isolation (April 20, 2020–July 20, 2020). The questionnaire was distributed via e-mail, online chats and social-media platforms.

Main Outcome Measures
Data was collected on general characteristics including demographics and socio-economic backgrounds. To evaluate sexual health, questions from the Sexual Behavior Questionnaire were included.

Results
523 cis male participated. 414 met the inclusion criteria. Most were heterosexual (n = 248, 59.9%; vs homosexual n = 97, 23.4%; vs bisexual n = 69, 16.7%). 243 (59%) were employed, 153 (37.1%) were students and 16 (3.9%) were unemployed. Most of the participants reported an annual income lower than 75.000€. During the lockdown, average weekly frequency of sexual intercourse and masturbation was increased in all groups. Consistently, a significant rise of higher satisfaction with the frequency of sexual contacts during the quarantine was observed (P &lt; .05). Furthermore, the level of sexual arousal increased significantly in all groups (P &lt; .0005). Capability to enjoy sexual intercourse or masturbation increased significantly in heterosexual (P &lt; .0005) and homosexual men (P &lt; .005). Bisexual participants showed a significant increase in general satisfaction with sexual life (P &lt; .05) and a significant decrease in satisfaction in relationship or single life (P &lt; .05). Positive confounders in the changing of sexual behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic were: Being in a relationship or being single, parenthood and being employed.

Conclusion
Our study firstly describes how COVID-19 pandemic related restrictions and social distancing measurements altered sexual behavior amongst cis male in Germany. Further studies, including sexual minorities specifically, are needed to clarify if the behavior in the first German nationwide quarantine has persisted or transformed as the pandemic proceeded. Mumm J-N, Vilsmaier T, Schuetz JM, et al. How the COVID-19 Pandemic Affects Sexual Behavior of Hetero-, Homo-, and Bisexual Males in Germany. Sex Med 2021;9:100380.
The Relationships of Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate, Erectile Function and General Psychological Health
Authors: Li Kanglai , Liang Shangyan , Shi Yuyan , Zhou Ying , Xie Liping , Feng Jiali , Chen Zhongcheng , Li Qingling , Gan Zhaoyu 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Introduction
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) has been reported to be associated with sexual function and general psychological health respectively, however, no one has ever examined their mutual relationships in a single study.

Aim
The aim of the present study was to find out whether DHEAS, general psychological health, and erectile function were all associated with each other.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 34 patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and 32 healthy controls (HC). The levels of serum DHEAS were assessed by chemiluminescence method. Erectile function and general psychological health were measured by International Index for Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) and General Health Questionnaire 20(GHQ-20) respectively.

Main Outcome measure
The primary outcome measure of this study was the mutual correlations of serum DHEAS levels, general psychological health and erectile function.

Results
Compared to HC, patients with ED had a significant lower serum levels of DHEAS (6.43 ± 2.70 μmol/L vs 9.48 ± 2.82 μmol/L, P &lt; .001) and higher scores on GHQ-20 (35.06 ± 8.56 vs 24.97 ± 2.55, P &lt; .001). Multivariate binary logistic regression showed that both serum levels of DHEAS (OR = 0.667, 95% CI = 0.512–0.869, P = .003) and psychological distress (scores of GHQ-20 &gt; 28) (OR = 6.921, 95% CI = 1.821–26.305, P = .005) were significantly associated with ED. However, no significant association between psychological distress and serum levels of DHEAS was found (OR = 0.798, 95% CI = 0.623–1.021, P = .072) after controlling for ED. Partial correlation analysis revealed that both scores of GHQ-20 (r = −0.595, P &lt; .001) and DHEAS (r = 0.450, P &lt; .001) were significantly correlated with scores of IIEF-5, while no significant relationship was found between scores of GHQ-20 and DHEAS (r = 0.116, P = .363) after controlling for scores of IIEF-5 and age.

Conclusion
Both serum levels of DHEAS and general psychological health are significantly associated with erectile dysfunction in sexually active adult men but the relationship between general psychological health and erectile function seems to be independent of DHEAS.
Li K, Liang S, Shi Y, et al. The Relationships of Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate, Erectile Function and General Psychological Health. Sex Med 2021;9:100386.
Management of Disastrous Complications of Penile Implant Surgery
Authors: Bettocchi C. , Osmonov D. , van Renterghem K. , Djiovic R. , Ralph D.J. 
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACTRationalePenile Prosthesis Implantation (PPI) is the definitive treatment for Erectile Dysfunction not responsive to conservative management strategies. Furthermore, it is a staple of surgical treatment of severe Peyronie’s Disease (PD) and phallic reconstruction. Expert implantologists occasionally face disastrous complications of penile implant surgery which can prove to be very challenging. In this article we present a selected number of case reports which exemplify this kind of situations and discuss management strategies while also commenting on plausible aetiologies.Patients’ concernsThe first case describes a PPI performed in end-stage fibrotic corpora after multiple instances of implantation/explant. The second and third cases show two diametrically opposed approaches to the management of glans necrosis after PPI in post-radical cystectomy patients. The fourth case describes the history of a diabetic patient suffering from glandular, corporal and urethral necrosis after a complicated PPI procedure. The fifth case reports the surgical treatment of a case of recurring PD due to severe scarring and shrinking of a vascular Dacron patch applied in a previous operation.DiagnosisComplication diagnosis in all patient was mainly clinical, intra- and postoperative, with Penile Color Doppler Ultrasonography performed when needed in order to demonstrate penile blood flow.InterventionsThe patients underwent complex surgical procedures that addressed each specific complication. Complex penile implants with fibrosis-related complications, penile prosthesis explant with and without surgical debridement of necrotic areas, penile prosthesis explant with necrotic penile shaft and urethral amputation with perineostomy, and complex corporoplasty with scar tissue excision and patch application with PPI were performed in the five patients.OutcomesPenile anatomy and erectile function with PPI was achieved in 4 out of 5 patients. 1 of 5 patient is scheduled to undergo a total phallic reconstruction procedure at the time of this writing.LessonsManagement of disastrous complications of penile implant surgery can be very challenging even in expert hands. In-and-out knowledge of possible PPI and PD complications is required to achieve an acceptable outcome.
Anti-Androgenic Effects Comparison Between Cyproterone Acetate and Spironolactone in Transgender Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Burinkul Supanat , Panyakhamlerd Krasean , Suwan Ammarin , Tuntiviriyapun Punkavee , Wainipitapong Sorawit 
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACTBackgroundSpironolactone and cyproterone acetate are commonly used in feminizing hormone therapy to achieve the goal of female range testosterone level; however, the data on the efficacy comparing between these two anti-androgens are scarce.AimTo compare the anti-androgenic effects between spironolactone and cyproterone acetate as the component of feminizing hormone therapy among transgender women population.MethodsThe study was single-blinded randomized controlled trial involved 52 transgender women from two transgender health clinics. Each participant received oral estradiol valerate 4 mg/day combined with anti-androgen, spironolactone 100 mg/day or cyproterone acetate 25 mg/day, depending on which group they were randomized to. Clinical and biochemical variables were obtained at baseline and at 12 weeks of feminizing hormone therapy.Main Outcome MeasuresThe change of testosterone level from baseline. Other changes including free testosterone, estradiol, prolactin and lipid profile after the therapy.RESULTSAfter a 12 weeks of feminizing hormone therapy, the change of testosterone level in the cyproterone acetate group [558.0 ng/dL (IQR 352.0 to 783.3)] was significantly higher than the spironolactone group [226.2 ng/dL (IQR,-4.3 to 480.1)](p value &lt;0.001). Testosterone and calculated free testosterone in the cyproterone acetate group were significantly lower than the spironolactone group. Consequently, a proportion of the participants who achieved the female range testosterone (&lt;50 ng/dL) was significantly higher in cyproterone acetate group (90%) compared to the spironolactone group (19%). Serious adverse effects observed in cyproterone acetate users were drug-induced liver injury and asymptomatic hyperprolactinemia.Clinical ImplicationsThe data on the differences between the two anti-androgen could be benefit for the transgender health-care providers in medication selection and adverse-effects counseling.Strengths & LimitationsThe study design was randomized controlled trial and controlled the estrogen component by prescribed the same type and dose for each participant. However, the study was suffered from the confound feminizing effects from previous hormone therapy and the high drop-out rate.CONCLUSIONFor feminizing hormone therapy, cyproterone acetate had a higher testosterone suppression efficacy than spironolactone.
Are the sustainability-oriented skills and competencies of business graduates meeting or missing employers’ needs? Perspectives of regional employers
Authors: McCarthy Breda , Eagle Lynne 
Published: July 2021

AbstractIn the Anthropocene, universities play a role in developing students’ sustainability literacy and capacity to solve socio-ecological challenges. The objective of this study is to identify the generic and sustainability-oriented skills and competencies required of business graduates by regional employers. The regional focus meets a gap in the literature. An online survey of employers in North Queensland found that they attach importance to a wide range of skills and competencies and see sustainability as a key factor in future business success. Yet, there are contradictions in terms of their support for sustainability in the curriculum and business practices, particularly when it comes to the recruitment and selection process. Furthermore, contradictions exist between the university’s adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the weak interest displayed by prospective employers in graduates’ sustainability literacy. This study has important implications for regional universities. A reframing of the role of sustainability education in the curriculum is warranted, where a deeper connection is made between sustainability education and the values employers already hold. Recommendations for curriculum designers are made on how to foster and assess the competencies that business graduates need to meet the demands of regional business upon entering the labour market.
Fair payment and just benefits to enhance diversity in clinical research
Authors: Bierer Barbara E. , White Sarah A. , Gelinas Luke , Strauss David H. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractRoutine, nonmedical and ancillary medical costs associated with participation in clinical research create barriers to enrollment for economically disadvantaged individuals. To the extent that race, ethnicity, and gender are linked to SES, such barriers impact efforts to diversify clinical research enrollment. But payment policies and practices often reflect the longstanding and singular concern that payment to participants will bias decision-making and compromise informed consent. We argue that this concern must be viewed in a larger ethical context in which the untoward consequences for the individual participant and for the broader research enterprise are considerable when either inadequate or no payment is provided for expenses incurred (“reimbursement”) and time committed (“compensation”). Fairness in payment and protection from undue influence of payment on the informed consent process are important but distinct ethical considerations. Fundamentally, approaches to payment that leave participants financially worse off as a consequence of taking part in research are inherently unjust as they have a differential impact on recruitment and retention based on socioeconomic status. Sponsors, funders, investigators, and IRBs must be cognizant of the impact of inadequate payment on clinical trial inclusion of historically understudied groups. We address practical and fair payment strategies to advance inclusion, the additional barrier of ancillary medical costs, and potential unintended consequences of payment.
High-energy, high-repetition-rate ultraviolet pulses from an efficiency-enhanced, frequency-tripled laser
Authors: Lü Xinlin , Peng Yujie , Wang Wenyu , Zhao Yuanan , Zhu Xiangyu , Leng Yuxin 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
In this study, a high-energy, temporally shaped picosecond ultraviolet (UV) laser running at 100 Hz is demonstrated, with its pulses boosted to 120 mJ by cascaded regenerative and double-pass amplifiers, resulting in a gain of more than 108. With precise manipulation and optimization, the amplified laser pulses were flat-top in the temporal and spatial domains to maintain high filling factors, which significantly improved the conversion efficiency of the subsequent third harmonic generation (THG). Finally, 91 mJ, 470 ps pulses were obtained at 355 nm, corresponding to a conversion efficiency as high as 76%, which, as far as we are aware of, is the highest THG efficiency for a high-repetition-rate picosecond laser. In addition, the energy stability of the UV laser is better than 1.07% (root mean square), which makes this laser an attractive source for a variety of fields including laser conditioning and micro-fabrication.