bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chronic Exposure to Perfluorohexane Sulfonate Leads to a Reproduction Deficit by Suppressing Hypothalamic Kisspeptin Expression in Mice
Authors: Yin Xiaorui , Di Tingting , Cao Xinyuan , Liu Zhengnan , Xie Jingyan , Zhang Suyun 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundPerfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) is a six-carbon perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acid found as an environmental contaminant. This study aims to investigate the effects of PFHxS exposure on female reproduction and the underlying mechanism in mice. MethodsEight-week-old ICR mice were divided randomly into four groups: corn oil (vehicle) and PFHxS at doses of 0.5, 5, and 50 mg/kg/day for 42 days by intragastric administration. Body weight, ovarian weight, estrous cycle, follicle counts, and serum sex hormone levels were evaluated. Expression of kisspeptin and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) in the hypothalamus was also detected. ResultsCompared to vehicle exposure, 5 mg/kg/day PFHxS prolonged the estrous cycle, especially the duration of diestrus, after 42 days of treatment. The numbers of antral follicles and corpus lutea were significantly reduced in PFHxS-treated mice. Moreover, compared with the control group, PFHxS-treated mice showed decreases in serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estrogen (E2), and reduced GnRH mRNA levels, along with the lack of an LH surge. Furthermore, PFHxS-treated mice had lower levels of kisspeptin immunoreactivity and kiss-1 mRNA in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV). After intraventricular administration of kisspeptin-10, the numbers of antral follicles and corpus lutea recovered, along with the levels of GnRH mRNA, FSH, and LH in mice treated with 5 mg/kg/day PFHxS. Conclusion﻿These results indicate that chronic exposure of mice to 5 mg/kg/day PFHxS affects reproductive functions by inhibiting kisspeptin expression in the ARC and AVPV regions, leading to the deficit of follicular development and ovulation.
Children’s Screen Time At Home: A Study of Parents’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practice
Authors: Arippin Nur Fatin-Aqilah , Mahmud Mardiah Haji , Rahman Hanif Abdul , Aliy-Yuin Kolinmo-Yumni A. , Lai Swee Ching Linda , Abdul-Mumin Khadizah H. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background

The present study investigated the parent’s knowledge, attitude, practice and experience of the screen time spent by their children at home aged below five years old, identify the common screen-based devices use, content type and level of screen time spent by the children and identify the association between sociodemographic variables and parent’s knowledge, attitude and practice on screen time.
Methods

We assessed target population of parents having children aged zero to four years old attending the Maternal and Child Health Care Clinics in four districts in Brunei Darussalam.
Results

Parents’ attitude and practice of screen time spent by their children are generally positive, however, the health knowledge level is poor with scores of < 50%. Children studied (< 2 years old and 3 to 4 years old) found to spent more time watching television. Interactive form of screen time content was mostly spent by the children (50%). Statistically significant association observed between children of both aged group with time spent on tablet device (p = 0.037) and (p = < 0.001). Also, significant association between parent’s knowledge, attitude and practice with gender of the parents, household income and total number of children was reported.
Conclusion

The children in our study exceeds the recommended guidelines on screen time behavior and the parent’s health knowledge with regards to screen time was poor which emphasized the need for improvement and further study.
Spreading Dynamics Analysis of a Novel SEAIRS Epidemic Model with Protection and Hospital Quarantine under Government Pre-warning
Authors: Xue Bingchuan , Li Tao , Cheng Xinming , Li Yumiao , Wu Yuanyuan , Shi Gaojun 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
To study the impact of protection and hospital quarantine measure, government pre-warning mechanism and heterogeneity of underlying networks on epidemic spreading, a novel SEAIRS epidemic model is proposed on scale-free networks. The spreading dynamics of the model is studied by means of the mean-field theory. Two equilibriums and the basic reproductive number R0 of the model is analyzed in detail. The global asymptotic stability of the disease-free equilibrium, the permanence of the epidemic spreading and the global attractivity of the endemic equilibrium are proved. Sensitivity analysis shows that the basic reproductive number R0 is dependent on the coverage rate of home quarantine (ωQ,ηA ,ηS ), hospitalization rate η1 and government pre-warning intensity δ . Finally, the theoretical analysis results are confirmed by means of numerical simulations.
Pleistocene-Holocene Monogenetic Volcanism at Malko-Petropavlovsk Zone of Transverse Dislocations on Kamchatka: Geological Setting, Spatial, Geochemical Paticular Features and Potential Volcanic Hazards
Authors: Bergal-Kuvikas Olga , Bindeman Ilya , Chugaev Andrey , Larionova Yulia , Perepelov Alexander , Khubaeva Olga 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Based on government statistical data ~80% of the local Kamchatkan population (~250 ka people) live in the major cities on the coastal line of Avacha Gulf . It is the main transport seaway to Kamchatka , and and important Asia - North America air transport corridor. The Avacha Gulf is located in the Malko-Petropavlovsk zone of transverse dislocations (MPZ) on the extension of deep transform fault on the boundary between various ly aged slabs. Most of monogenetic cinder cones chaotic distributed in relation to the trench and belong to the long-living rupture zones of MPZ. Some of the monogenetic volcanoes are parasitic cones on the slopes of Koryaksky and Avachinsky stratovolcanoes and related with their magma plumbing systems. We here present new results of the geochemical and isotopic stud ies of monogenetic volcanism in MPZ. Based on whole rock and trace element geochemistry, Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic ratios of monogenetic volcanism, ­­ magmas were shown to sample the enriched mantle source with dominance decompression melting without significant inputs of the slab`s components. Calculations of the P, T conditions suggest magma residence of monogenetic cinder cones on the Moho boundary. That correlates with the geophysical observation of crustal discontinuity under the MPZ. Monogenetic cinder cones have an active magma plumbing system because during the Holocene time were several periods of activations. Presented results show necessary install continuous monitoring of environment changing around the Avacha Gulf and more serious attention from government and science. A more detailed investigation of MPZ will help degrease potential risks of eruptions from monogenetic volcanoes for human and infrastructures.
Evaluation Method of Node Importance in Temporal Satellite Networks Based on Time Slot Correlation
Authors: Xu Rui , Di Xiaoqiang , He Xiongwen , Qi Hui 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Temporal satellite networks can accurately describe the dynamic process of satellite networks by considering the interaction relationship and interaction sequence between satellite nodes. In addition, the measurement of node importance in satellite networks plays a crucial role in understanding the structure and function of the network. The classical supra-adjacency matrix (SAM) temporal model identifies the key nodes in the temporal network to some extent, which ignores the differences of inter-layer connectivity relationships leading to the inability to reflect the dynamic variations of satellite nodes. Therefore, the evaluation method based on time slot correlation is proposed to measure the importance of satellite nodes in this paper. Firstly, the correlation coefficient of time slot nodes is defined to measure the coupling relationship of adjacent time slots. Secondly, the dynamic supra-adjacency matrix (DSAM) temporal network model is proposed considering the correlation between adjacent time slots and the characteristics of link time. Finally, the node importance ranking results in each time slot and a global perspective are obtained by utilizing the eigenvector centrality. Through experimental simulations of the Iridium and Orbcomm constellations, it is demonstrated that the DSAM method has a more accurate recognition rate and is more stable than the SAM method.
Dye Anionic Removal From Water by Green Synthesized Nannochloropsis Sp.- Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide Surfactant: Kinetics, Adsorption Isotherm and Adsorbent Regeneration
Authors: . Buhani , Miftahza Nurul , . Suharso , Permatasari Desy , . Sumadi 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Dynamic Handgrip Exercise: Feasibility and Physiologic Stress Response of a Needle-Free Cmr Stress Test
Authors: Ochs Andreas , Nippes Michael , Salatzki Janek , Weberling Lukas D , Riffel Johannes , Müller-Hennessen Matthias , Giannitsis Evangelos , Osman Nael , Stehning Christian , André Florian , Katus Hugo A , Frey Norbert , Friedrich Matthias G , Ochs Marco M 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Purpose: CMR pharmacological stress-testing is well-established to detect myocardial ischemia. Despite stressor and contrast agents appear rather save, contraindications and side effects have to be considered. Substantial costs are further limiting its applicability. Dynamic handgrip exercise(DHE) may have the potential to address these shortcomings as a physiological stressor. We therefore evaluated the feasibility and physiologic stress response of DHE in relation to pharmacological dobutamine-stimulation by cardiac magnetic resonance(CMR).Methods: Two subgroups were prospectively enrolled: (i)volunteers without relevant disease and (ii)patients with known CAD referred for stress-testing. A both-handed, metronome-guided DHE was performed over 2 minutes continuously with 80 contractions/minute by all participants, whereas dobutamine stress-testing was only performed in group(ii). Short axis strain by fast-Strain-ENCoded imaging was acquired at rest, immediately after DHE and during dobutamine infusion. Results: Eighty middle-aged individuals(age 56±17years, 48males) were enrolled. DHE triggered significant positive chronotropic(HRrest:68±10bpm, HRDHE:91±13bpm, p<0.001) and inotropic stress response(GLSrest:-19.4±1.9%, GLSDHE:-20.6±2.1%, p<0.001). Exercise-induced increase of longitudinal strain was present in healthy volunteers and CAD patients to the same extent, but in general pronounced from basal to apical layers(p<0.01). DHE was aborted by a minor portion(7%) due to peripheral fatigue. The inotropic effect of DHE appears to be non-inferior to intermediate dobutamine-stimulation(GLSDHE=-19.5±2.3%, GLSDob=-19.1±3.1%, p=n.s.), whereas its chronotropic effect was superior (HRDHE=89±14bpm, HRDOB=78±15bpm, p<0.001). Conclusions: DHE causes positive ino- and chronotropic effects superior to intermediate dobutamine-stimulation, suggesting a relevant increase of myocardial oxygen demand. DHE appears safe and timesaving with broad applicability. The data encourages further studies to determine its potential to detect obstructive CAD.
Risk Factors Associated with Self-Removal of Shoulder Braces After Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Won Yoo-Sun , Lee Jae Sung , Jung Hyoung-Seok , Jang Ye-Hoon , Jung Chan-Woo , Kim Jae Yoon 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Rotator cuff repair is a widely performed surgery, with the re-tear rate reportedly above 20%. To protect the repair site, patients are instructed to wear braces for 4-6 weeks, but the compliance is known to be poor. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for poor compliance and to determine whether poor compliance leads to complications such as re-tears. Additionally, we planned to determine the patients’ subjective factors for self-removal of the brace.Method: This study included 101 patients who underwent rotator cuff repair between June 2019 and August 2020. The patients could select from two types of braces, namely, the sling-type and hard-type abduction brace. They were then instructed to wear the brace for 6 weeks postoperatively. During the follow-up, ultrasonography was performed to evaluate the repair site, and a questionnaire was administered to evaluate the compliance. Result: The participants were categorized into three groups (Groups A, B, and C) according to the degree of self-removal. Compliance was found to be poor, and only 35 patients met the standard of Group A. There were no statistically significant patient factors affecting the compliance. Re-tears were noted in 4 patients. Only the surgery type (open versus arthroscopic surgery) was a statistically significant factor for re-tears. Among the subjective factors, discomfort while sleeping was the most common complaint and the most common reason for the actual removal of the brace.Conclusion: Although the risk factors for self-removal of the braces could not be identified clearly and statistically, catastrophic re-tears requiring re-operation were observed in patients with poor compliance. For better compliance, the postoperative guidelines and education of the patients should be reviewed. Furthermore, the braces need to be modified to a more comfortable design.
Encapsulated Allogeneic Synovial Membrane Mesenchymal Stem Cells Provide Better Outcomes of Chondral Lesions in Horses
Authors: Santos Vitor Hugo , Pfeifer João Pedro Hübbe , Stievani Fernanda de Castro , Rosa Gustavo Santos , Apolonio Emanuel Vitor Pereira , Rossi Mariana Correa , Constantino Leonel Vinicius , de Melo Thadeu Rodrigues , Fonseca-Alves Carlos Eduardo , Alves Ana Liz Garcia 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundOsteoarthritis is the main cause of equine lameness and its treatment remains ineffective. Synovial membrane mesenchymal stem cells (SMMSC) provide satisfactory outcomes in joint injuries, mainly due to their immunomodulatory and reparative properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of MSMSC, either encapsulated in alginate hydrogel or free, in chondral lesions of horses.MethodsChondral lesions were surgically induced in medial trochlea of talus of fifteen horses. Animals were treated with PBS, 1x107 free SMMSC or 1x107 encapsulated SMMSC. Physical evaluations, lameness scores and synovial fluid analysis were determined (cytological analysis and dosage of IL-1, IL-10, IL-6, INF-Ɣ, TNF 𝛼, P Substance, Serum Amyloid A, TGF-β, IGF and PGE2) initially and followed for up to two weeks. Cartilage biopsies were performed 150 days after the induction for histological analysis and immunohistochemistry staining.ResultsAll groups presented inflammation initially. Although free SMMSC showed moderate tissue repair, encapsulated SMMSC modulated inflammation and had the lower grade of inflammation with superior tissue macro and microscopic aspects at the end, while the control group showed fibrosis and poor cartilage appearance. This study suggests better stem cell effectiveness in chondral defects when encapsulated MSCs are used.ConclusionsWhile the absence of treatment perpetuates cartilage degradation, encapsulated SMMSC responded better to the initial inflammation, interacting and modulating the environment through the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Better outcomes observed in encapsulated MSCs were related to the immuno and physical barrier provided by the alginate hydrogel, allowing a longer period of permanence and interaction between MSCs and the environment.
Comparison of Blood Test Data Between Patients With COVID-19 and Influenza: a Retrospective Cross-sectional Survey in a Japanese University Hospital
Authors: Fukui Sayato , Inui Akihiro , Saita Mizue , Kobayashi Daiki , Naito Toshio 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Characteristics features, including blood test data, of COVID-19 compared to those of influenza have not been defined.Purpose: We aimed to compare clinical parameters, including blood test data, between COVID-19 and influenza.Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted at Juntendo University Nerima Hospital, Tokyo, Japan. We recruited patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between January 1 and December 31, 2020, and all patients underwent blood tests. For comparison, we recruited patients diagnosed with influenza. The number of patients with influenza and those with COVID-19 was the same. All patients with influenza underwent blood tests and the period was dated back from December 31, 2020 until the period that was the same number of COVID-19.Results: During the study period, 228 patients (male:female, 123 [54.0%]:105 [46.0%], age [mean±standard deviation], 54.68±18.98 years) were diagnosed with COVID-19. We recruited the same number of influenza patients (228 patients; male:female, 129 [56.6%]:99 [43.4%], age [mean±standard deviation], 69.6±21.25). Age 15–70 years (vs. 71 years), difficulty in breathing, malaise, and percentage of lymphocytes >20% were significantly more frequent in COVID-19. However, nausea, body temperature >38.1°C, and white blood cell count >9000/μL were more frequent in influenza.Conclusion: Our results are useful for differentiating COVID-19 from influenza.
Safety Monitoring Experience of Single-low Dose Primaquine Co-administered With Artemether-lumefantrine Among Providers and Patients in Routine Healthcare Practice: a Qualitative Study in Eastern Tanzania
Authors: Mosha Dominic , Kakolwa Mwaka A , Mahende Muhidin K , Masanja Honorati , Abdulla Salim , Drakeley Chris , Gosling Roland , Wamoyi Joyce 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Primaquine is a gametocytocidal drug recommended by the WHO in a single-low dose combined with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) for the treatment and prevention of Plasmodium falciparum malaria transmission. Safety monitoring concern and the lack of universal validated and approved primaquine pharmacovigilance tool is a challenge for a national rollout in many countries. This study aimed explored acceptance, reliability and perceived effectiveness of the primaquine roll out monitoring pharmacovigilance tool (PROMPT). Methods: This study was conducted in three dispensaries in the Coastal region of Eastern Tanzania. The study held six in-depth interviews with healthcare providers and six participatory focus group discussions with malaria patients (3) and parents/guardians of sick children (3). Participants were purposively sampled. Thematic analysis was conducted with the aid of NVivo qualitative analysis software.Results: The respondents’ general acceptance and perceived effectiveness of the single-low dose primaquine and PROMPT was good. Screening procedure for treatment eligibility and explaining to patients about the possible adverse events was considered very useful for safety reasons. Crushing and dissolving of primaquine tablet to get the appropriate dose, particularly in children, was reported by all providers to be challenging. Transport cost and poor access to the health facility were the main reasons for a patient failing to return to the clinic for a scheduled follow-up visit. Treatment was perceived to be safe by both providers and patients and reported no case of a severe adverse event. Some providers were concern with the haemoglobin drop observed on day seven. Conclusion: Single-low dose primaquine was perceived to be safe and acceptable among providers and patients. PROMPT demonstrated to be a reliable and user-friendly tool among providers. Further validation of the tool by involving the National Malaria Control Program is pivotal to address key challenges and facilitate the adoption of primaquine in the national policy.
Polypharmacy and Falls Risk-increasing Drugs: Their Relation to Fall Recurrence
Authors: Akın Sibel , Şentürk Nurdan Durmuş , Soysal Tuba , Özer Firuzan Fırat , Gokcekuyu Bilge Müge , Zararsız Gözde Ertürk 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Polypharmacy and adverse drug side effects are among the high-risk causes for falls in older adults.Objective: To assess the association between polypharmacy and the risk of recurrent falls and different pharmacological groups of drugs with falls.Setting: University hospital in community-dwelling older adults in Turkey.Method: Falls risk-increasing drugs were identified as Cardiovascular drugs, Analgesics, Central Nervous System (CNS) drugs, Endocrine drugs, and others. Falls were evaluated as to whether absent or present during the past 12 months. Two or more falls were recorded as a recurrent faller.Main outcome measure: Low hand grip strength (HGS) increased the risk of fall approximately 1.7 times (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.69 95% CI 1.11-2.58). Older age and using angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) increased the risk of recurrent falls (OR 1.05: 95% CI 1.00-1.09 and OR 4.04: 95% CI 1.70-9.60, respectively).Results: Patients' mean (SD) age was 71.9 (7.5)  years, and 71.0% of them were female. While 87 (51.4%) participants fall once, 82 (48.5%) of participants reported recurrent falls. Two hundred and eighty-eight (55.6%) participants had four or more prescribed medications. The percentage of patients who used at least one PIM on admission, as defined by the Beers criteria, was 155 (29.9%). Conclusion: Although the polypharmacy rate of the participants was high, there was no significant relationship between polypharmacy and falling. But low HGS, one of the components of sarcopenia, was a risk factor for fall, and older age and use of ACE-I were risk factors for recurrent fall.
The 3D Organisation of Mitochondria in Primate Photoreceptors
Authors: Hayes Matthew J , Tracey-White Dhani , Kam Jaimie Hoh , Powner Michael B , Jeffery Glen 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Vertebrate photoreceptors contain large numbers of closely-packed mitochondria which sustain the high metabolic demands of these cells. These mitochondria populations are dynamic and undergo fusion and fission events. This activity serves to maintain the population in a healthy state. In the event of mitochondrial damage, sub-domains, or indeed whole mitochondria, can be degraded and population homeostasis achieved. If this process is overwhelmed cell death may result. Death of photoreceptors contributes to loss of vision in aging individuals and is associated with many eye diseases. In this study we used serial block face scanning electron microscopy of adult (Macaca fascicularis) retinae to examine the 3D structure of mitochondria in rod and cone photoreceptors. Healthy-looking photoreceptors contain mitochondria with a range of shapes which are associated with different regions of the cell. In some photoreceptors we observe mitochondrial swelling and other changes we associate with stress or degeneration of the cell. In both rods and cones we identify elongated domains of mitochondria with densely-packed normal cristae associated with photoreceptor ciliary rootlet bundles. We observe mitochondrial fission and mitochondrion fragments localised to these domains. Swollen mitochondria with few intact cristae are located towards the periphery of the photoreceptor inner-segment in rods, whilst they are found throughout the cell in cones. Swollen mitochondria exhibit sites on the mitochondrial inner membrane which have undergone complex invagination resulting in membranous, electron-dense aggregates. Membrane contact occurs between the mitochondrion and the photoreceptor plasma membrane in the vicinity of these aggregates, and a series of subsequent membrane fusions results in expulsion of the mitochondrial aggregate from the photoreceptor. These events are primarily associated with rods, likely reflecting the ageing mechanism in primates where many rods die but cones do not. Possible consequences of this atypical mitochondrial degradation are discussed.