bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association Between Urine Uranium and Asthma Prevalence: NHANES 2007-2016
Authors: Huang Dongdong , Wang Saibin 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Previous studies showed that urine uranium (U) is associated with asthma prevalence in adults. However, the association between them among the general population is unclear. Therefore, this study aimed at exploring this unclear association. Methods: The data of the participants were collected from the 2007-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) performed in the United States. Continuous variables with skewed distribution were analyzed using Ln-transformation. The association between urine U and asthma prevalence was analyzed by multiple regression analysis, and the linear association between them was evaluated by the smooth curve fitting. The subgroup analysis was performed by the hierarchical multivariate regression analysis.Results: A total of 13,581 participants were included in our analysis. The multivariate regression analysis showed that LnU was independently and positively correlated with asthma prevalence in the general population (OR=1.12; 95% CI:1.04,1.20; P=0.002). The subgroup analysis revealed that the College Graduate or above showed the stronger association between LnU and asthma prevalence (<9th Grade: OR=0.84; 95% CI: 0.61, 1.14; 9-11th Grade: OR=1.23; 95% CI: 0.99,1.52; High School Grade: OR=1.00; 95% CI: 0.84, 1.19; College: OR=1.04; 95% CI: 0.91,1.19; ≥College Graduate: OR=1.32; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.57; P for interaction=0.0389). Conclusions: Our research suggested that urinary U levels are positively correlated with asthma prevalence in the general population of the United States, and the association is especially strong among people with high level of education.
Return to Sports Activity After Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy in Elderly Patients
Authors: Otoshi Akio , Kumagai Ken , Yamada Shunsuke , Nejima Shuntaro , Fujisawa Takahiro , Miyatake Kazuma , Inaba Yutaka 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate return to sports (RTS) after opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) in elderly patients and associated factors affecting RTS.Methods: Seventy-four patients (mean age 68 years) who underwent OWHTO were enrolled. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Knee Society Score (KSS). Patients were asked regarding types of sports activities and their levels of participation within preoperative 1 year and postoperative 1 year. Levels of participation in sports and recreational activities were examined using the Tegner activity scale. The outcomes were compared between two age groups (≥70 years vs <70 years).Results: Of the 74 patients overall, 59 participated in at least one sport preoperatively, and 55 returned to sports postoperatively (RTS 93%). The KSS knee score and function score were significantly improved after surgery in both age groups (P<0.05), but no significant differences were found between the age groups. The Tegner activity scales for ≥70 years and <70 years were 2.9±1.1 and 4.0±1.9 preoperatively (P<0.01) and 2.7±1.2 and 3.3±1.4 postoperatively (P=0.16), respectively. RTS was reported by 24 of 25 (96.0%) in the age <70 years group and 31 of 34 (91.2%) in the age ≥70 years group. Of the patients who reported RTS, 66.7% in the age <70 years group and 77.4% in the age ≥70 years group could return to the same or higher level.Conclusions: The rate of RTS after OWHTO was high in elderly patients. OWHTO is a preferred surgical option for elderly patients who desire RTS.
COVID-19 Outbreak After 100 Days Without Community Transmission: Epidemiological Analysis of Factors Associated With Death
Authors: Duc Nguyen Tran Minh , Abozaid Ali Ahmed-Fouad , Truong Le Van , Hung Nguyen Bao , Linh Dao Khanh , Dung Nguyen Hoang , Voong Teresa Pham , Huy Nguyen Tien 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has cost millions of deaths and lifelong consequences since December 2019. We attempted to evaluate the incidence, distribution, and risk factors associated with death after applying the social distance strategy to the second wave of SARS-CoV-2 in the Danang outbreak (July 2020), Vietnam. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the online Danang Hospital reports, gathering the epidemiological history of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 patients. We then conducted a descriptive analysis of Fisher's Phi Coefficient and Cramer's, along with multiple logistic regression models to test the effects of symptomatology and control measures performed by the Vietnamese government on transmission dynamics. The last report we examined was on August 29, 2020.Results: 389 SARS-CoV-2 confirmed cases related to the Danang outbreak are included in our analysis with a mean age of 47.1 (SD = 18.4), involving 154 men and 235 women, 34 cases of death, and 355 were alive. The study showed significant results related to age, quarantine measures, previous negative SARS-CoV-2 test, and a range of symptoms, including shortness of breath and myalgia (p-value < 0.05). Our multiple-variable analysis suggested the significant risk of death was related to age, severe symptomology, undetected SARS-CoV-2 test results, and prior quarantined SARS-CoV-2 history.Conclusions: Vietnamese authorities had implemented successful quarantine practices to control the SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks. However, this virus has shown dynamic spread beyond the ability of the country to control its transmission. Adequate screening, social distancing, and adequate care of the elderly and healthcare workers can lower the risk of future outbreaks.
Epicardial adipose tissue, inflammation, fibrosis and coronary artery diseases
Authors: Fantin Francesco , Gloria Mazzali , Vanni Rizzatti , Elena Zoico , Andrea Rossi , Giuseppe Faggian , Francesco Onorati , Francesco Santini , Mauro Zamboni 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Accumulation of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is associated with severity and progression of coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to compare EAT fibrosis, inflammation, Hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1-α) and caveolin-1 (CAV-1) between subjects with and without CAD.Methods and Results: Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment index, serum leptin and adiponectin were evaluated in EAT of patients with and without CAD undergoing elective surgery. Biopsies were collected from EAT. Immunohistochemistry for macrophages CD68, CD11c, CD163, HIF1-α and CAV-1 was performed and Masson Trichrome staining to define the degree of fibrosis.A total of 22 male patients (age range from 51-80 years), were studied: 12 CAD and 10 non-CAD undergoing elective surgery.Fibrosis, HIF1-α, number of total CD68, CD163 and CD11c were higher in CAD than in non-CAD patients, whilst serum adiponectin and CAV-1 significantly lower. In 4 patients with CAD, but in none in those without, macrophages aggregated in crown like structure were found. Fibrosis correlated with HIF1-α and M1 pro-inflammatory CD11c (+) macrophages; HIF1-α with total, M1 pro-inflammatory CD11c (+) and M2 anti-inflammatory CD163 (+) macrophages; Caveolin-1 positively correlated with serum adiponectin.Conclusions: CAD patients displays a dysfunctional EAT characterized by greater inflammation, fibrosis, HIF1-α and lower CAV. Our results seem to suggest that adiponectin may decline CAD risk even by determining an increase of CAV-1. Level of evidence: III cross-sectional study.
Measuring the “weight” of human in vivo bio-inertia by legendary Galileo falling body experiments on a commercial 10m diving platform and gravitationally inversion of Newton's Three Laws of Motion into the Basic Laws of Evolution
Authors: Lai Yi Yu 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Mutations of legendary Galileo falling bodies experiment with non-living objects in a non-isolated environment demonstrate that the recoverable internal motions of falling bodies can bind and polarize gravity over conventional Newtonian mass inertia. Bio quantum path experiments further interpret the binding mechanism and reveal the isolated logic restriction of Einstein’s equivalence principle. Mutations of the Cavendish experiment unveil 109 levels of gravitational differences between living and dead states. Mutations of the Galileo falling body experiments for living beings confirmed that such differences come from recoverable internal motion surface tension gravitational binding that can be calibrated as a measurable bio-inertia. We then calibrated the falling height difference for human in vivo bio-inertia on a commercial 10m diving platform and verified 98% of populations on Earth can safely be tested in this way with enough preparation training. In vivo lifetime gravitational binding curve that governs all biological parameters and reveals life evolutionary mechanisms becomes technologically feasible. These results, along with various facts, modulate the gravitational multi-surface tension region resonating model of in vivo bio quantum path inversion superposition. Photoelectric effect, PCR, GPCR, ancient CSF-ligament human Kungfu training systems, music harmonics, and board observations physically sustain this model. Newtonian Third Laws of motion are therefore evolved into Basic Laws of Evolution originates from surface tension non-unitary time inversion superposition that is different from the mathematical superposition in quantum mechanics; original memory negentropy is also disciplinarily integrated.
A Novel Strain of Stenotrophomonas Acidaminiphila Produces Super-active Alkaline Protease During Cassava Effluent Fermentation: Process Optimization, Kinetic Modeling and Scale-up
Authors: Asitok Atim , Ekpenyong Maurice George , Takon Iquo , Antai Sylvester , Ogarekpe Nkpa , Antigha Richard , Edet Philomena , Antai Agnes , Essien Joseph 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
PurposeMicrobial fermentations for value-added metabolites production are exploited for efficient bioconversion of agro-industrial wastes for the dual purposes of pollution abatement and cost-effectiveness.MethodsIn the present study, the regular 2-level factorial design was employed to screen fermentation parameters that enhance production of a novel alkaline protease by a strain of Stenotrophomonas acidaminiphila using cassava processing effluent as substrate. Data from randomized experiments of central composite rotatable design for improved enzyme activity, guided by path of steepest ascent experiments, were modeled and optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). Shake flask kinetics of production under optimized conditions was modeled by logistic and modified Gompertz models and determinations of maximum specific growth rate, µmax, maximum volumetric rate of substrate consumption, rsm, maximum volumetric rate of biomass formation, rxm and specific yield of product, Yp/x were made.ResultsLogistic model poorly fitted RSM-generated product formation and substrate consumption data. However, biomass formation was accurately fitted (adjusted r2 >99%), with µmax of 0.471 h-1. The modified Gompertz model, on the contrary, more accurately fitted all three major response data with minimal mean squared error. Potential for scale-up of bioprocess evaluated in 5-L bioreactor satisfactorily revealed 8.5-fold more substrate consumption in bioreactor than in shake flask. The 86.76-fold aqueous two-phase system-purified protease had a specific activity of 1416.73 Umg-1 which improved with increasing surfactant concentration.ConclusionThese results suggest significant bioprocess potential for sustainable cassava effluent management and concomitant commercial production of alkaline protease for industrial detergent application.
Study on Double-sided Impedance Matching of Spherical Focusing Transducer in Ultrasonic Abrasive Flow Polishing System
Authors: Wei Li , Li Hua , Wei Dong 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
The impedance matching of ultrasonic focusing spherical transducer is one of the primary factors affecting its work efficiency in ultrasonic focusing flow polishing system. To realize the efficient utilization of the vibration energy of the transducer, there are different requirements for the front and rear matching structure of the transducer. That is, the front matching structure should have high transmittance, and the rear matching structure should have high reflectivity. Based on the acoustic impedance matching theory and Kirchhoff's theory, the Influence of the front & back impedance matching structure of spherical focusing ultrasonic transducer to the focus sound pressure is studied theoretically and experimentally. The new matching structure for spherical focusing transducer is proposed based on above research. The experimental result shows that the focus sonic pressure with the new matching structure is increased by 72.03% compared with the traditional structure.
Left Supraclavicular (Virchow’s) Node Metastasis Detected Before Diagnosis of the Primary Infradiaphragmatic Tumor
Authors: Mochizuki Yumi , Tsuchiya Maiko , Oyama Jun , Wada Akane , Kugimoto Takuma , Kuroshima Takeshi , Hirai Hideaki , Tomioka Hirofumi , Harada Hiroyuki , Ikeda Toru , Akashi Takumi 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background and Purpose: Malignant infradiaphragmatic tumors that metastasize to the left supraclavicular (Virchow’s) node are relatively rare. Since Virchow's time, the survival rates of cancer patients have improved because of dramatic research advances in the epidemiology of cancer and the development of screening technologies and treatment methods. However, when metastasis is detected in the left supraclavicular node in patients with head and neck carcinoma, locating the primary cancer remains a difficult and time-consuming challenge. We report three cases of malignant infradiaphragmatic tumors diagnosed following the initial finding of left supraclavicular node (LSN) metastasis after surgery for tongue squamous cell carcinoma (follow-up period, range 18–62 months).Methods: In these cases, adenocarcinoma was diagnosed based on LSN biopsies, and a second primary tumor was found, including cholangiocarcinoma, bladder carcinoma, and prostate carcinoma.Results: CA19-9 and alpha-fetoprotein levels helped to diagnose cholangiocarcinoma. In the bladder carcinoma case, immunopathological examination of the metastatic LSN and bladder lesion showed GATA 3(+), and the tongue squamous cell carcinoma showed GATA 3(-). GATA 3 staining aided in the diagnosis of urothelial bladder cancer with LSN metastasis. In the prostate carcinoma case, PSA levels and weak FDG-PET/CT uptake aided the diagnosis process. This patient underwent bilateral orchiectomy and adjuvant hormonal therapy and survived for 47 months after the diagnosis of LSN metastasis. The other patients died within 1 year.Discussion and Conclusions: These cases suggest that the prognosis of malignant infradiaphragmatic tumors after LSN metastasis depends on the tumor characteristics and that rapid diagnosis is important for providing appropriate treatment.
Ultra-Selective Polyamide Membrane from Metal Organic Framework Assembly Regulated Interfacial Polymerization for Desalination and Water Reuse
Authors: Wen Yue , Dai Ruobin , Li Xuesong , Zhang Xingran , Cao Xingzhong , Wu Zhichao , Lin Shihong , Tang Chuyang , Wang Zhiwei 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
While reverse osmosis (RO) is the leading technology to address the challenge of water scarcity through desalination and potable reuse of wastewater, current RO membranes still fall short in rejecting certain harmful constituents from seawater (e.g., boron) and wastewater (e.g., N-nitrosodimethylamine, or NDMA). In this study, we develop an ultra-selective polyamide (PA) membrane via enhancing interfacial polymerization using amphiphilic metal-organic framework (MOF) nanoflakes. In this process, MOF nanoflakes horizontally aligned at the water/hexane interface to accelerate the transport of diamine monomers across the interface and conserve gas bubbles and heat of reaction near the interface. These mechanisms synergistically led to the formation of a crumpled PA nanofilm with an ultrathin intrinsic thickness of ~ 5 nm and a high cross-linking degree of ~ 97%. The resulting PA membrane delivered excellent desalination performance that is beyond the existing upper-bound of perm-selectivity, and exhibited very high rejection (> 90%) of boron and NDMA unmatched by state-of-the-art RO membranes.
The challenges of predicting pipe failures in clean water networks: a view from current practice
Authors: Barton N. A. , Hallett S. H. , Jude S. R. 
Published: August 2021

AbstractPipe failure models can aid proactive management decisions and help target pipes in need of preventative repair or replacement. Yet, there are several uncertainties and challenges that arise when developing models, resulting in discord between failure predictions and those observed in the field. This paper aims to raise awareness of the main challenges, uncertainties, and potential advances discussed in key themes, supported by a series of semi-structured interviews undertaken with water professionals. The main discussion topics include data management, data limitations, pre-processing difficulties, model scalability and future opportunities and challenges. Improving data quality and quantity is key in improving pipe failure models. Technological advances in the collection of continuous real-time data from ubiquitous smart networks offer opportunities to improve data collection, whilst machine learning and data analytics methods offer a chance to improve future predictions. In some instances, technological approaches may provide better solutions to tackling short term proactive management. Yet, there remains an opportunity for pipe failure models to provide valuable insights for long-term rehabilitation and replacement planning.
Dual Inhibition of Parasitic Targets: A Valuable Strategy to Treat
Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases
Authors: Previti Santo , Di Chio Carla , Ettari Roberta , Zappalà Maria 
Published: August 2021

:
Despite the countless efforts made in the last decades, malaria and neglected
tropical diseases remain a high-impact health problem in developing countries. Malaria is
one of the most severe parasitic diseases, with over 200 million cases and 400,000 deaths
in 2019. Parasitic diseases caused by trypanosomatidae, namely Human African Trypanosomiasis,
Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis, register the highest rates of mortality
amongst all the neglected tropical diseases. In this scenario, chemotherapy remains the
first strategy, which aims to control and eliminate these diseases. However, the use of
outdated, unsafe, and poorly effective drugs, together with the onset of resistance,
prompted the researchers to identify new and valid targets. The innovative idea, aimed at
the development of multi-target ligands addressing two different targets playing key roles
in parasite survival, could represent a valuable strategy. Thanks to this approach, the wellknown
limitations characterizing the antiparasitic drugs, such as toxicity, rapid resistance
onset and narrow spectrum of action, could be overcome. In this review, we now describe
the most recent multi-target ligands endowed with antiparasitic effects reported in the literature,
focusing our attention on their binding with the targets, inhibitory activities, and
potential therapeutic applications.
PCSK9 and Inflammation: Their Role in Autoimmune Diseases, with
a Focus on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Ministrini Stefano , Carbone Federico 
Published: August 2021

Abstract:
Despite a clear epidemiological link between autoimmune disease and cardiovascular
(CV) risk exists, pathophysiological explanations are extremely complex and far
from being elucidated. Dysregulation of metabolic pathways and chronic low-grade inflammation
represent common pathways, but CV risk still remains underestimated in patients
with autoimmune diseases. Among different candidate mediators, pro-protein convertase
subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is attracting growing attention, due to a combined
effect on lipid metabolism and inflammatory response. Studies on PCSK9 inhibitors have
established a clear benefit on CV outcome without an established effect on inflammation.
Conversely, evidence from sepsis and HIV infection strongly supports a pro-inflammatory
role of PCSK9. Still, the role of PCSK9 in autoimmune diseases is uncertain. So far, reported
clinical findings are controversial and likely reflect the poor knowledge of PCSK9
activity on monocyte/macrophage migration and activation. The complex signaling network
around PCSK9 synthesis and metabolism may also have a role, especially concerning
the involvement of scavenger receptors, such as CD36. Such complexity in PCSK9
signaling seems particularly evident in autoimmune disease model. This would also potentially
explain the observed independency between lipid profile and PCSK9 levels, the
so-called “lipid paradox”. In this narrative review, we will summarize the current
knowledge about the complex network of PCSK9 signaling. We will focus on upstream
and downstream pathways with potential implication in autoimmune disease and potential
effects of PCSK9 inhibiting strategies.
Another Look at Dietary Polyphenols: Challenges in Cancer Prevention
and Treatment
Authors: Arrigoni Roberto , Ballini Andrea , Santacroce Luigi , Cantore Stefania , Inchingolo Angelo , Inchingolo Francesco , Di Domenico Marina , Quagliuolo Lucio , Boccellino Mariarosaria 
Published: August 2021

Abstract:
Cancer is a pathology that impacts in a profound manner all over the world.
The election strategy against cancer often uses chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which,
more often than not, can present many side effects and are not always considered reliable
efficacy. By contrast, it is widely known that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables has a protective
effect against cancer insurgence and development. Polyphenols are generally believed
to be responsible for those beneficial actions, at least partially. In this review, we
highlight the metabolic interaction between polyphenols and our metabolism and discuss
their potential for anticancer prevention and therapy.
Recent Advances in Lung Cancer Therapy Based on Nanomaterials: A
Review
Authors: Gholami Leila , Ivari Jalil Rouhani , Nasab Niloofar Khandan , Oskuee Reza Kazemi , Sathyapalan Thozhukat , Sahebkar Amirhossein 
Published: August 2021

Abstract:
Lung cancer is one of the commonest cancers with a significant mortality rate
for both genders, particularly in men. Lung cancer is recognized as one of the leading
causes of death worldwide, which threatens the lives of over 1.6 million people every day.
Although cancer is the leading cause of death in industrialized countries, conventional anticancer
medications are unlikely to increase patients' life expectancy and quality of life
significantly. In recent years, there are significant advances in the development and applications
of nanotechnology in cancer treatment. The superiority of nanostructured approaches
is that they act more selectively than traditional agents. This progress led to the
development of a novel field of cancer treatment known as nanomedicine. Various formulations
based on nanocarriers, including lipids, polymers, liposomes, nanoparticles and
dendrimers have opened new horizons in lung cancer therapy. The application and expansion
of nano-agents lead to an exciting and challenging research era in pharmaceutical
science, especially for the delivery of emerging anti-cancer agents. The objective of this
review is to discuss the recent advances in three types of nanoparticle formulations for
lung cancer treatments modalities, including liposomes, polymeric micelles, and dendrimers
for efficient drug delivery. Afterward, we have summarized the promising clinical
data on nanomaterials based therapeutic approaches in ongoing clinical studies.