bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ultra-fast Tunable Optoelectronic Half Adder/subtractor based on Photonic Crystal Ring Resonators Covered by Graphene Nanoshells
Authors: Naghizade Saleh , Saghaei Hamed 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This paper reports a new design of a tunable optoelectronic half adder/subtractor. Two photonic crystal (PhC) ring resonators are used to realize the proposed structure. Several silicon rods surrounded by silica rods covered with graphene nanoshells (GNSs) form every PhC ring resonator. Setting the chemical potential of GNS with an appropriate gate voltage, we can tune the PhC resonant mode as desired. The plane wave expansion technique is used to study the photonic band structure of the fundamental PC microstructure, and the finite-difference time-domain method is employed in the final design for solving Maxwell's equations to analyze the light propagation inside the structure. We systematically study the effects of physical parameters on the transmission reflection and absorption spectra. By optimizing the geometric dimensions, resonant absorption peaks can be excited at the same time for GNSs. Our numerical results also reveal the maximum time response is about 0.8 ps. The 200 µm2 area of the proposed half adder/subtractor makes it the building block of every photonic integrated circuit. Also, the design of various fast signal processing systems in optical communication networks is possible due to using tunable GNSs in PhC ring resonators. This study can introduce the use of two-dimensional materials in the design and implementation of logic circuits.
Early Pregnancy Human Decidua Gamma/Delta T Cells Exhibit the Tissue Resident and Specific Functional characteristics
Authors: Yang Shuo , Feng Ting , Ma Yong Cheng , Wang Hao Tie , Chen Qin Hong , Li Man Li , Liu Yuan , Zhou Bin , Zhou Rong , Li Hong 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: A successful pregnancy is a complicated process that builds upon two aspects of the maternal immune system that needs to be balanced. As one of the dominant groups of cells at the maternal fetal interface, the decidual γδ T cells have attracted great research attention in normal pregnancy or miscarriage. However, the role of γδ T cells in fetal growth still remains poorly studied. Results: In this study, we identified γδ T cells were enriched and resident in decidua during early pregnancy, and early decidual γδ T cells were involved in the secretion of growth factors, including growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) and bone morphogenetic protein 1 (BMP1). Decrease of these growth factors could impaire fetal development, resulting in fetal growth restriction. We also observed that the early decidual γδ T cells exhibited stronger cytokine secretion characteristic, but its cytotoxicity against A549 cells was weaker, when compared with the γδ T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In addition, the functional abilities of early decidual γδ T cells in promoting trophoblast cell proliferation, migration, invasion and tube formation were also significantly stronger than those in γδ T cells of PBMCs. Conclusions: These findings highlighted the importance of γδ T cells in fetal growth and maternal immune tolerance during pregnancy, which is different from γδ T cells in PBMCs, and encouraged further research in this field.
COVID-19 and Medical Education in Africa: A Cross Sectional Analysis of the Impact on Medical Students
Authors: Bernard Alec , Indig Gnendy , Byl Nicole , Abdu Amani Nureddin , Menegesha Dawit Tesfagiorgis , Admasu Bereket Alemayehu , Holman Elizabeth 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: The African continent currently experiences 25% of the global burden of disease with only 1.3% of the world’s healthcare workers. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruption to medical education systems, increasing the strain on already-vulnerable regions. Our study examines the impact of COVID-19 on medical students across 33 countries in the African continent. Methods: A 39-item anonymous electronic survey was developed and distributed to medical students across Africa through social networks to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical education. The survey assessed the domains of: class structure changes and timing, patient interactions, exam administration, learning environment satisfaction, mental health impacts, and volunteer opportunities/engagement.Results: 694 students across 33 countries participated. 88% of respondents had their classes suspended for varied lengths of time during the pandemic, and from these students 51% of them resumed their classes. 83% of students felt they were in a supportive learning environment before the pandemic, which dropped to 32% since the start. The proportion of students taking exams online increased (6% to 26%, p<.001) and there was a corresponding decrease in the proportion of students seeing patients as a part of their education (72% to 19%, p<.001).Conclusion: COVID-19 is harming medical students in Africa and is likely to worsen the shortage of the future’s healthcare workforce in the region. Pandemic-related impacts have led to a degradation of the learning environment of medical students. Medical schools have shifted online to differing degrees and direct patient-care in training of students has decreased. This study highlights the urgent need for flexible and innovative approaches to medical education in Africa
The Double Burden of Ebola and COVID-19 Viral Infections and the Readiness for Safe Surgical Care Provision in Uganda and the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo: an Online Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Sikakulya Franck Katembo , Ssebuufu Robinson , Longombe Albert Ahuka Ona , Okedi Francis , Kalongo Michel , Valimungighe Moise Muhindo , Pascal Furaha Nzanzu Blaise , Vahwere Bienfait Mumbere , Mambo Simon Binezero , Mulumba Yusuf , Muyisa Muhindo Muhasa , Sonia Fatuma Djuma , Sekabira John , Fualal Jane , Kyamanywa Patrick 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Objective: This study aimed at highlighting the extent to which Uganda and the Eastern DR Congo are ready for safe surgical care provision during the double burden of Ebola and COVID-19. Methods: An online cross-sectional study was conducted in selected National, Regional Referral and General Hospital facilities of Uganda and in the Eastern part of D.R. Congo from 1st August 2020 to 30 October 2020. Data was analysed using Stata version 14.2. Results: A participation rate of 37.5% for both countries (72/192). The mean bed capacity of participating health facilities (HF) was 184 in Eastern DR. Congo and 274 in Uganda with an average surgical ward bed capacity of 22.3% (41/184) of the beds in the DR. Congo and 20.4% (56/274) in Uganda. The mean number of operating rooms was 2 and 3 in Eastern DR. Congo and Uganda respectively. Nine hospitals (12.5%) reported being able to test for Ebola and 25 (34.7%) being able to test for COVID-19. Only 7 (9.7%) hospitals reported having a specific operating room for suspect or confirmed cases of Ebola or COVID-19. Provision of appropriate Personal Protection Equipment to personnel were reported to be available in 60 (83.3%) hospitals. The mean of readiness score for provision of surgical care was 7.8/16 (SD: 2.3) or 60% in both countries with no statistical significance in multiple linear regression analysis (p>0.05). Conclusion: The majority of participating hospitals in both countries had a low level of readiness to provide safe surgical care due to lack of supplies to limit the exposure of Healthcare workers (HCW) to Ebola and Covid-19 viral infections, and poor funding. Governments and non-governmental organizations should work together to enhance health facility supplies and readiness for safe surgical provision in resource-limited settings.
Effects of Chronic Cholinergic Stimulation Associated With Aerobic Physical Training on Cardiac Morphofunctional and Autonomic Parameters in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Gardim Camila B. , Oliveira Ana Catarine V. , Aguilar Bruno Augusto , Philbois Stella V. , Souza Hugo C. D. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
We investigated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) the hemodynamic, cardiac morphofunctional, and cardiovascular autonomic adaptations after a protocol of aerobic physical training associated with chronic cholinergic stimulation. Fifty-four SRH were divided into two groups: trained and untrained. Afterward, each group was subdivided into three smaller groups: vehicle, treated with pyridostigmine bromide at 5mg/kg/day, and at 15mg/kg/day. The following protocols were assessed: echocardiography, autonomic double pharmacological blockade, analysis of heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure variability (BPV), and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). Physical training and pyridostigmine bromide reduced blood pressure and heart rate and increased vagal participation in cardiac tonic autonomic balance. Associated the responses were potentialized. Pyridostigmine bromide increased the oscillation of low frequency (LF:0.2-0.75Hz) and high frequency (HF:0.75-3Hz) of HRV. However, the association with physical training attenuated HF oscillations. Pyridostigmine bromide also increased LF oscillations of BPV. Both treatments promoted morphofunctional adaptations and associated increased the ejection volume, ejection fraction, cardiac output, and cardiac index. In conclusion, the association of pyridostigmine bromide and physical training promoted greater benefits in hemodynamic parameters and increase vagal influence on cardiac autonomic tonic balance. Nonetheless, pyridostigmine bromide alone seems to negatively affect BPV, while the association of treatment negatively influences HRV.
Generation of Miniaturized Ovaries by in Vitro Culture From Mouse Gonads
Authors: Jang Si Won , Jang Hoon , Choi Hyun Woo 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The incidence of infertility among individuals of reproductive age has been growing due to genetic and environmental factors, and considerable research efforts are focused on solving this issue. Ovarian development is an overly complex process in the body, involving the interaction between primordial germ cells and gonad somatic cells. However, follicles located in the center of the in vitro ovary are poorly formed or die owing to ovarian complexity, nutrient deficiency, and signaling deficiency. In the present study, we optimized methods for dissociating gonads and culture conditions for the in vitro generation of miniaturized ovaries. The gonads from embryos were dissociated into cell masses and cultured on a Transwell-COL membrane for 3~5 weeks. Approximately 12 follicles were present per in vitro ovary. We observed that miniaturized ovaries successfully matured to MII oocytes in vitro from 150 to 100 µm gonad masses. This method will be useful for investigating follicle development and oocyte production.
Cross-Border Mobility Responses to Covid-19 in Europe: New Evidence from Facebook Data
Authors: Docquier Frederic , Golenvaux Nicolas , Nijssen Siegfried , Schaus Pierre , Stips Felix 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
BackgroundWe use a unique database on Facebook users’ mobility to study the daily evolution of cross-border movements of people during the Covid-19 pandemic. To limit censoring issues, we focus on 45 pairs of European countries, and document the changes in daily traffic during an entire pandemic year. We rely on regression and machine learning models to identify the role of infection threats and containment policies. Permutation techniques allow us to compare the impact and predictive power of these two categories of variables. ResultsIn contrast with studies on within-border mobility, our models point to a stronger importance of containment policies in explaining changes in cross-border traffic as compared with international travel bans and fears of being infected. The latter are proxied by the numbers of Covid-19 cases and deaths at destination. Although the ranking among coercive policies varies across modelling techniques, containment measures in the destination country (such as cancelling of events, restrictions on internal movements and public gatherings), and school closures in the origin country (influencing parental leaves) have the strongest impacts on cross-border movements. ConclusionWhile descriptive in nature, our findings have policy-relevant implications. Cross-border movements of people predominantly consist of labor commuting flows and business travels. These economic and essential flows are marginally influenced by the fear of infection and international travel bans. They are mostly governed by the stringency of internal containment policies and the ability to travel.
WITHDRAWN: Immediate Postpartum Modern Family Planning Utilization and Associated factors among women gave birth public Health facilities, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Demissie Dereje Bayissa , Dadi Heran Worku 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Introduction: The first 48 hours after a woman has given birth is a crucial period for taking the immediate postpartum contraceptive to prevent unintended pregnancy. However many women do not realize that the time to initiate contraceptive. The postpartum period is a critical period for addressing widespread unmet needs in family planning and for reducing the risks of closely spaced pregnancies.Objective: The aim of this study was to determine immediate postpartum modern family planning utilization and associated factors among women attending delivery at Public Health Facilities in Addis Ababa.Methods: A facility based cross-sectional study design was conducted from November to December, 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were entered into Epi-data version 4.6.0.0 and analyzed with STATA version 14. Data were mainly analyzed using descriptive statistic and binary logistic regression. For the qualitative study purposive sampling technique was employed, and 7 participants were interviewed. Open coded thematic content analysis was used.Result: Of the total of 586 participants, 12.97 % with 95% CI: (10.1, 15.5) mothers were used immediate postpartum contraceptive methods, of which implant was the most frequently used method. Current knowledge of IPPFP (AOR=1.79, 95% CI: (1.02, 3.24)), Attitude towards IPPFP (AOR=1.73, 95% CI: (1.05, 2.85)) and counseled at delivery room (AOR=5.85, 95% CI: (2.57, 13.14)) were associated factors for utilizing contraceptive in the immediate postpartum period.Conclusion: Utilization of immediate postpartum modern family planning was low as compared to previous study done. This study identified that factors associated with utilization of immediate postpartum modern family planning were:- mothers’ knowledge, attitude towards postpartum modern family planning and had been counseled at delivery room were identified factors may increases likelihood of immediate postpartum family planning utilization. Therefore, these factors should be emphatically considered during antenatal care and post-partum care program development and training to improve contraceptive utilize during immediate postpartum period.
Gut Microbiota Associated with Effectiveness and Responsiveness to Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in Improving Trait Anxiety
Authors: wang zonghua , xu xiaoxiao , liu shuang , Xiao Yufeng , yang min , zhao xiaoyan , jin cancan , hu feng , yang shiming , tang bo , song caiping , wang tao 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
ObjectiveThe mindfulness based interventions have been widely demonstrated effective on reducing stress, alleviating mood disorders and improving quality of life; however, the underlying mechanisms remained to be fully understood. Along with the advanced research in microbiota-gut-brain axis, this study aimed to explore the impact of gut microbiota on the effectiveness and responsiveness to mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) among high trait anxiety populations.DesignA standard mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) was performed among 21 young adults with high trait anxiety. A total of 29 healthy controls were matched for age and sex. The differences on gut microbiota between the two groups were compared. The changes of fecal microbiota and psychological indicators were also investigated before and after the intervention. ResultsCompared with healthy controls, we found markedly decreased bacterial diversity and distinctive clusters among high trait-anxiety populations, with significant overgrowth of bacteria such as Streptococcus, Blautia, Romboutsia, and decrease of genera such as Faecalibacterium, Coprococcus_3, Lachnoclostridium. Moreover, MBCT attenuated trait-anxiety and depression, improved mindfulness and resilience, and turned gut microbiota more close to that of healthy controls. Notably, high burden of intestinal Subdoligranulum pre-MBCT was associated with an increased responsiveness to MBCT. Decreases in Subdoligranulum post-MBCT were indicative of ameliorated trait anxiety. The tryptophan metabolism pathways were significantly over-represented among high-responders compared to low-responders.Conclusion The significantly increased diversity post-MBCT added evidence to gut-brain communication, and highlighted the utility of mycobiota-focused strategies for promoting effectiveness and responsiveness of the MBCT to improve trait anxiety.Trial registration: Chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR1900028389. Registered 20 December 2019, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=47167&htm=4
Plastic Deformation of Synthetic Quartz Nanopillars by Nanoindentation for Multi-scale and Multi-level Security Artefact Metrics
Authors: Ito Shunya , Omori Toshiyuki , Ando Masao , Yamazaki Hiroyuki , Nakagawa Masaru 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Individual authentication using artefact metrics has received increasing attention as a greater importance has been placed on the security of individual information. These artefact metrics must satisfy the requirements of individuality, measurement stability, durability, and clone resistance, in addition to possessing unique physical features. In this study, we proposed that nanostructures of synthetic quartz (SQ) deposited on an SQ plate may provide such sophisticated artefact metrics if morphological changes can be intentionally introduced into the SQ nanostructures at certain positions. We fabricated SQ nanopillars using a mass-production method (namely ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography) and investigated their mechanical deformation using nanoindentation with a spherical diamond tip through loading and unloading cycles. The SQ nanopillars with an aspect ratio of 1 (i.e. diameters D of 100 and 200 nm and heights H of 100 and 200 nm, respectively) could be plastically deformed without collapsing within a specified pillar-array format at programmed positions. The plastically deformed SQ nanopillar arrays demonstrated multi-scale (sub-millimetre, micrometre, and nanometre) and multi-level (shape, area, diameter, and height) individuality authentication and clone resistance capabilities. Because SQ is physically and chemically stable and durable, the individuality authentication will be a highly reliable media on Earth and in space.
Efficient measures to control an outbreak of SARS-CoV2 in an elderly care home and to prevent a spill over into the general population
Authors: Weigl Josef A.I. , Werlang Thorsten , Wessendorf Michael , Helbing Holger 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: The vaccination campaign against SARS-CoV2 in Germany started at the peak of the second wave. An outbreak in an elderly care home occurred in our county at the time of the second vaccination.Aims: To describe a package of measures to control the outbreak and to prevent a spill over into the general population.Methods: After outbreak confirmation a package of measures such as quarantine of the elderly care home, staff and visitors, and their households was implemented. By sequential testing quarantine measures were lifted. Surveillance of staff and residents by rapid antigen test and symptom monitoring was used in parallel.Results: The outbreak was on-going for around 17 days until it was noticed by a symptomatic external staff member as index case. A total of 23 out of 96 (24.0%) residents and 9 out of 114 (7.9%) staff were infected. Three residents died. Effective first dose vaccine coverage was 85.4% in residents, 27.4% in internal and 10.5% in external staff. Given the long latency period the use of household quarantine prevented a spill over into the public. Already 16 days after notification of the index case the outbreak could be declared over.Conclusions: Interferences between vaccination coverage and outbreak characteristics in regard to an extended latency period were observed. Household quarantine of case as well as contact households is of increased importance in the era of vaccination to prevent further spread into the general population until population based control measures and lockdowns can be lifted.
Trametinib Monotherapy for the Treatment of Brain Metastasis from NSCLC: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Pan Tianfan , Huang Xiangzhong 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background:BRAF mutation mostly was observed in lung adenocarcinoma, accounting for about 4.9%. It mainly including V600E mutation and other rare mutations, among which non-V600E positive accounted for about 43.3%.Case presentation:We report a case that postoperative recurrence NSCLC with brain metastasis and multiple lymph nodes metastasis, who had been developed hemiplegia. The gene mutation was positive for BRAF non-V600E and a partial response was observed despite brain and multiple lymph nodes lesions after trimetinib monotherapy.Conclusion:Our case shows that trimetinib could potentially be a promising therapeutic agent for chemotherapy-refractory BRAF non-V600E mutant NSCLC patients.
Opioid Consumption Trends in Spain: The Case of the Island of La Gomera (2016-2019)
Authors: Oliva Alexis , Armas Néstor , Devora Sandra , Abdala Susan 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This study aimed to describe the consumption of opioid drugs in the island of La Gomera over a four-year period (2016–2019) at various levels (island, township and health areas). Data were extracted from the wholesaler in community pharmacies at a population level. Consumption patterns were expressed as number of Defined Daily Doses per 1000 inhabitant /day (DID) and by the number of sold units per 1000 inhabitants and year. A common classification system (ATC) and the two units of measurement proposed enabled comparisons at various levels. Major differences between island, township, and health areas are presented. Little is known about the reasons for these differences. The opioids belonging to the N02AJ groups and N02AX were the most consumed according to the “sold units” parameter, which accounted for 69.48% and 18.59%, respectively. The situation was similar in terms of DID, although with lower percentages, but a significative increase was observed in the use of fentanyl and buprenorphine, around 15% each. The balance between the uses of weak or strong opioids showed differences in La Gomera compared to those nationwide. In mainland Spain, almost 70% of the consumption came from weak opioids versus that of 58.67% in La Gomera. Fentanyl was the most frequently used strong opioid (16.10%) followed by tapentadol and buprenorphine, around 5% each, whereas in La Gomera buprenorphine was the most consumed (15.75%) followed by fentanyl (14.87%) and tapentadol (5.82%). These differences in opioids consumption are most likely explained by different changes on the prescribing habits and sociodemographic characteristics.