bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In-Situ Preparation of Novel Nanocomposites of PMMA and Ordered Mesoporous Carbon (FDU-15)
Authors: Mohammadnezhad Gholamhossein , Okhovat Milad , Fazel Tanin , Dinari Mohammad 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Ordered mesoporous carbons have recently been given significant attention because of their unique hexagonal structure, tunable large pore volumes, high thermal stability, and high surface-to-volume ratio. In this research paper, for achieving the maximum compatibility between the FDU-15 and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), KH-550 was used as a modifying and coupling agent to facilitate the bond formations between the mesoporous carbon and PMMA with the help of ultrasonic irradiation. Nanocomposite (NC) films were produced via the in-situ polymerization method aligned with various amounts of modified FDU-15. Sample characterizations were done by Field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), low angle X-ray diffraction (LXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The LXRD pattern proved that the modification process did not affect the hexagonal mesoporous structure of FDU-15. The PMMA-m-FDU 2 wt% showed the existence of some pores on its surface according to FE-SEM. The TEM image of the NC depicted a uniform dispersion of mesoporous carbon into the polymer matrix and also confirmed the hexagonal 2D structure of the mesopores. TGA data also confirmed that as the m-FDU-15 increases into the PMMA matrix, the higher thermal stability will achieve, and also the Td will increase to the higher temperatures.
Exercise Tolerance In Patients With Idiopathic Pulmonary Artery Hypertension: Insight Into Risk Thresholds And Prediction Capacity For 5-Year Mortality
Authors: Huang Zhihua , Yan Lu , Zhao Zhihui , Zhao Qing , Tang Yi , Jin Qi , Zhang Yi , Li Xin , Duan Anqi , Hu Meixi , Ma Xiuping , Luo Qin , Liu Zhihong 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Exercise tolerance is pivotal for risk-stratification in patients with idiopathic pulmonary artery hypertension (IPAH), yet optimal risk predictors and risk thresholds remain uncertain. This study aimed to investigate risk estimates of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) associated with 5-year mortality in patients with IPAH and explore their risk thresholds and prediction capacity.Methods: Consecutive patients with IPAH who underwent right heart catheterization and CPET were retrospectively enrolled and followed up for five years. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine independent prognostic factors for mortality. The risk trend and threshold for mortality were exhibited using restricted cubic splines. Survival rates were estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis stratified by various CPET parameters.Results: Among 210 patients with IPAH (75.7% female), 37 (17.6%) died during a 34-month median follow-up. Three CPET variables were independently predictive of mortality in multivariable Cox regression analysis (all P<0.05), including oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES), peak oxygen pulse (VO2/HR), and peak oxygen consumption (VO2), in descending order of prediction power (𝑥2 = 37.39 > 35.96 > 35.57). The levels of OUES at 0.91, peak VO2/HR at 5.3 ml·min-1·beat-1, and peak VO2 at 12.2 ml·kg-1·min-1 were respectively identified as risk thresholds for mortality. Patients below these thresholds had significantly higher mortality risk (adjusted hazard ratio of OUES: 3.34; peak VO2/HR: 3.76; and peak VO2: 1.56) and lower survival rates (log-rank test, all P<0.01). The joint model (area under the curve [AUC] 0.838) of these CPET variables (AUC 0.724) and estimates in contemporary risk assessment tools (AUC 0.809) provided more excellent prediction capacity for 5-year mortality. Conclusions: Suboptimal exercise tolerance indicated by OUES, peak VO2/HR, and peak VO2 under certain thresholds posed a higher mortality risk in patients with IPAH, and their joint combination further improved the prediction capacity.
Associations Among Body Composition Parameters and Quality of Life in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Kim Seon-Mi , Kang Minjung , Kang Eunjeong , Kim Ji Hye , Kim Yunmi , Ryu Hyunjin , Han Seung Seok , Lee Hajeong , Kim Yong Chul , Oh Kook-Hwan 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an important issue among patients undergoing dialysis treatment. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is associated with a number of adverse body composition changes. However, whether body composition is associated with HRQOL is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of body composition on HRQOL in PD patients. We performed a cross-sectional observational study on the association between body composition and HRQOL in PD patients at a single center. Body composition was determined by multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy. HRQOL is summarized to three composite scores: kidney disease component summary (KDCS), physical component summary (PCS), and mental component summary (MCS). The relationships between HRQOL and the hydration index, lean tissue index (LTI), and fat tissue index (FTI) were analyzed by regression analysis. One hundred and ninety-seven PD patients were included in the present study. Patients with severe fluid overload showed a lower PCS. The hydration index and FTI showed statistically significant negative associations with PCS. In subgroup analysis, the associations between the hydration index and PCS remained robust after stratifying according to sex, age, and residual urine. Our results indicated that both the hydration index and FTI were negatively associated with HRQOL, especially PCS.
Successful rituximab treatment for severe rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease with anti-MDA5 antibody-positive juvenile dermatomyositis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Nishi Kentaro , Ogura Masao , Tamai Naotaka , Gima Naofumi , Ide Kentaro , Koinuma Goro , Kamei Koichi , Ito Shuichi 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD) is a life-threatening complication of juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM); however, it is generally refractory to treatment and no evidence-based treatment has yet been established for RP-ILD. We present the case of a 2-year-old girl with RP-ILD who was resistant to methylprednisolone, cyclosporine A, cyclophosphamide, immunoglobulin, and plasma exchange. Finally, she required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, but rituximab contributed to the patient’s disease remission and survival. In addition, we conducted a literature review of 18 cases of JDM with RP-ILD.Case presentation: A 2-year-old girl developed malar rash, mild muscle weakness, and weight loss for a few months before admission. She presented with a history of dry cough and dyspnea for few days, followed by rapid respiratory failure. The diagnosis of JDM with RP-ILD was made by physical examination (malar rashes and Gottron’s sign) as well as by the finding of myositis on femoral magnetic resonance imaging, the elevation of serum muscle enzymes, positive anti-melanoma differentiation-association gene 5 antibody (>7,500 index), the elevation of Krebs von den Lungen-6 (3,420 U/mL), and the finding of extensive ground-glass opacities with consolidation in the bilateral lungs on chest high-resolution computed tomography. She received combination therapy, including methylprednisolone pulse therapy, followed by oral prednisolone, intravenous cyclosporine A, intravenous cyclophosphamide, and intravenous immunoglobulin. On the 11th day of her hospital stay, she was put on ventilation, and plasma exchange was started. However, her respiratory condition continued to deteriorate and veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was started on day 24 of hospitalization. Rituximab was administered on day 28 of hospitalization. Two weeks after starting rituximab therapy, her respiratory condition gradually started to improve. Eventually, on day 52 of her hospital stay, she was able to wean off extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Finally, 11 months after admission, she was discharged with minimal ventilatory support and no neurological complications.Conclusions: According to this literature review, JDM with RP-ILD has a high mortality rate. In JDM, rituximab could be a promising treatment option for RP-ILD. In the future, the effectiveness of rituximab in the early phases of ILD should be investigated.
Changes in eating behavior through lifestyle treatment in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jiskoot Geranne , de Loos Alexandra Dietz , Timman Reinier , Beerthuizen Annemerle , Laven Joop , Busschbach Jan 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
BackgroundEating behaviors like emotional eating, external eating and restrained eating play an important role in weight gain and weight loss in the general population. This has not yet been studied in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). MethodsWomen diagnosed with PCOS (N=183), with a body mass index (BMI) > 25 kg/m2 and trying to achieve a pregnancy were either assigned to one year of 20 group sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with nutritional advice and exercise with additional 9 months of electronically tailored feedback through SMS (LS with SMS) or 20 group sessions of CBT combined with nutritional advice and exercise without SMS (LS without SMS), or CAU, which includes the advice to lose weight using publicly available services. Disordered eating was assessed with the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDEQ).Results EDEQ scores worsened in CAU (+47.5%) and improved in the lifestyle group (LS) (-4.2%) at 12 months. The difference between the LS and CAU was significant (p=0.007) and resulted in a medium to large effect size (Cohen's d: -0.72). No significant difference were observed in EDEQ scores between LS with SMS compared to LS without SMS (Cohen’s d: 0.28; P=0.399). Also, weight loss did not mediate the changes in eating behavior. An overall completion rate of 67/183 (36.6%) was observed.ConclusionsA three-component CBT lifestyle program resulted in significant improvements in disordered eating behavior compared to CAU. Changes in disordered eating behavior are important for long-term weight loss and mental health. Trial registration: NTR, NTR2450. Registered 2 August 2010, https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/2344
Identification of Legacy and Active Sources of Metal Contamination in Soils in Brooklyn, NY
Authors: Henderson Emily , Maroko Andrew , Kelvin Elizabeth , Pavilonis Brian 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the spatial distribution and potential anthropogenic sources of Pb, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Fe in surface soils throughout Brooklyn, NY. We collected soil samples (n=1,373) from 176 different New York City parks. Metal concentrations were analyzed ex-situ using a portable X-ray fluorescence with a subset (n=350) confirmed with ICP-MS. The effect of multiple sources on metal concentrations were determined by stepwise multivariable linear regression with generalized estimating equations. Median concentrations for Pb, Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn were 107.8 ppm, 144.7 ppm, 49.4 ppm, 14033.6 ppm, and 279.2 ppm, respectively. All metals were significantly correlated with one another (p<0.001), with the strength of the correlation ranging from a low of approximately ρ = 0.3 (Pb-Mn and Zn-Mn) to a high of ρ = 0.7 (Pb-Cu). In final multivariate modeling, scrap yards were significantly associated with Mn concentration (β = 0.075, 0.019), NPL sites was significantly associated with Pb, Fe and Mn (β = 0.134, p=0.004; β = 0.038, p=0.014; β = 0.057, p=0.037, respectively), and bridges nearby were significantly associated with Pb and Zn (β = 0.106, p=0.003; β = 0.076, p=0.026, respectively). Although manufacturing and industry have mostly left the area, smaller scrap metal recyclers are abundant and significantly increased Cu and Mn soil concentrations. In addition, NPL sites contributed to increased concentrations of all five metals within 800 m. Roadways have long been established to be sources of urban pollution; however, in our study we also found the presence of bridges within 800 m were also strongly predictive of increased Pb, Cu, and Zn concentrations.
Green Synthesis and Comparison of Biological Properties of Ag-NPs as a Metal Nanoparticle with ZnO-NPs as a Metal Oxide Nanoparticle and their Applications
Authors: Shabestarian Hoda , Tabrizi Masoud Homayouni , Movahedi Monireh , Neamati Ali , Sharifnia Fariba 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Aim
The aim of study was synthesized both silver- and zinc-oxide nanoparticles utilizing the Peganum harmala smoke extract (PHSE) bio-platform to evaluate their cytotoxicity on different types of human cancer cell lines and study their antioxidant, and antiangiogenic potentials.
Material and Methods
The Ag and ZnO nanoparticles were produced utilizing the green-synthesize method applying PHSE bio-platform. After characterization by XRD, DLS, FESEM, and FTIR methods, MTT assay was used for evaluation toxicity of nanoparticles. ABTS, DPPH, FRAP and ROS for antioxidant capacity, CAM and qPCR for antiangiogenesis effects of nanoparticle’s were used
Results
Ag-NPs (82.42 nm) and ZnO-NPs (163.05 nm) were inhibited prostate, ovarian and liver malignant cells. Inhibition ABTS•+ and DPPH•+ and increasing the rate of intracellular ROS exhibited the anti and pro-oxidant capacity of Ag and ZnO-NPs out and inside of malignant cells. Also, their anti-angiogenesis impact was verified by significant dose-dependent VEGF and VEGFR down-regulation and the decreased blood vessels in the chicks’ chorioallantoic membrane (CAM).
Conclusion
The antioxidant, cytotoxicity and anti-angiogenesis effects of Ag and ZnO-NPs synthesized from Pecan smoke extract make it possible to use these nanoparticles in cancer chemotherapy.
“Go in with an open mind”: Perceptions of exoskeleton use during gait rehabilitation in an acute hospital setting following stroke
Authors: McDonald Caitlin , Fingleton Caitriona , Murphy Sean , Lennon Olive 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background Robotic gait devices allow intensive high repetition of the gait cycle in individuals with locomotor disability, with reduced therapist effort. The addition of robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) to usual rehabilitation post-stroke improves the likelihood of regaining independent walking, with maximum efficacy identified in the acute and subacute phases of stroke. The study explores the usability and acceptance of RAGT among persons with stroke in an acute hospital setting and examines users’ perceptions of two different modes of robotic assistance provided during rehabilitation. MethodsA mixed-methods approach comprised semi-structed interviews of end-user perspectives of RAGT in an acute hospital setting following stroke and two 10-point Likert scales rating how comfortable and how natural robotic gait felt using different assistance modes. Content analysis of qualitative data was undertaken with results synthesised by common meaning units. Quantitative data were reported using summary statistics, with Spearmann’s correlation co-efficient examining the relationship between Likert scale ratings and measures of participants’ stroke related disability. Results Ten individuals (6 men; 4 women; mean age of 64.5. ±13 years) were recruited from an acute hospital following admission with a stroke diagnosis. Content analysis of interviews identified discussion units centring around positive aspects of the device related to how helpful the device was, negative aspects related to set-up time, weight of the device and multiple instructions during use. Initially participants identified that the device could look intimidating and that they feared falling in the device but subsequently identified the correct mindset for using the device is to trust the technology and not be afraid. Mean ratings of device comfort (7.94 ± 1.4) and how natural walking felt (7.05 ± 1.9) were favourable. Interestingly, a strong relationship was identified, whereby the higher the level of disability, the more natural participants rated walking in the device in maximal assistance mode (rho =0.62). ConclusionsThis study suggests individuals in the early phases of stroke perceive RAGT to be acceptable and helpful in the main, with some associated negative aspects. The device was rated as comfortable and natural to use and those with greater disability rate the assisted walking was more natural.
Spontaneous common bile duct perforation- a rare cause of biliary peritonitis in a patient of chronic calcific pancreatitis.
Authors: B.M. Nandakumar , Rajdev Vivek , Gupta Rakesh , Chandel Pankaj , Gupta Jagdish 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Spontaneous perforation of common bile duct is a rare cause of acute generalised peritonitis. It is difficult to diagnose pre-operatively and mainly caused due to increased intra-ductal pressure of common bile duct, which can occur due to stone, stricture or malignancy. Here, we present an interesting case report of spontaneous common bile duct perforation in a patient of chronic calcific pancreatitis leading to peritonitis, the management protocol with highlight on previous literature.
An Intuitive Logic for Modeling Non-Local Hidden Variable Problems
Authors: Fox Keith , White Tyler 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
We present a notion of an un-measurable state, which we call an Anti-state and derive a simple and intuitive logic for Anti-states. Anti-states are then used to generate structures, which we call Anti-Structures. Theorems 3.25 and 4.2 yield that Anti-Structures are able to model the context changes occurring in quantum mechanics, which Kochen and Specker in [5] showed were un-modellable with local hidden variables. In our Examples 3.28, 4.3, and 4.7 , we show that, respectively, the orthohelium experiment (outlined in Kochen, Specker [5]), wave functions, and entanglement all have Anti-Structure models. Our results give a good contrast to the results of Kochen and Specker [5], and establish a limitation on self reference for partial Boolean algebras. This limitation is not held by Anti-Structures in general, and also does not seem to be a limitation that should be put on our physics. The theorems and examples of this paper lead to a series of questions regarding the expressiveness and a measure of contrivance for models of quantum mechanics.
Surveillance for potentially zoonotic viruses in rodent and bat populations and behavioral risk in an agricultural settlement in Ghana
Authors: Suu-Ire Richard , Obodai Evangeline , Bel-Nono Samuel Otis , Ampofo William Kwabena , Mazet Jonna A.K. , Goldstein Tracey , Johnson Christine Kreuder , Smith Brett , Boaatema Linda , Asigbee Theodore Worlanyo , Awuni Joseph , Opoku Eric , Consortium PREDICT , Kelly Terra R. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background
In Ghana, the conversion of land to agriculture, especially across the vegetative belt has resulted in fragmented forest landscapes with increased interactions among humans, domestic animals, and wildlife.
Methods
We investigated viruses in bats and rodents, key reservoir hosts for zoonotic viral pathogens, in a small agricultural community in the vegetation belt of Ghana. We also administered questionnaires among the local community members to learn more about people’s awareness and perceptions of zoonotic disease risks and the environmental factors and types of activities in which they engage that might influence pathogen transmission from wildlife.
Results
Our study detected the RNA from paramyxoviruses and coronaviruses in rodents and bats, including sequences from novel viruses with unknown zoonotic potential. Samples collected from Epomophorus gambianus bats were significantly more likely to be positive for coronavirus RNA during the rainy season, when higher numbers of young susceptible individuals are present in the population. Almost all community members who responded to the questionnaire reported contact with wildlife, especially bats, rodents, and non-human primates in and around their homes and in the agricultural fields. Over half of the respondents were not aware or did not perceive any zoonotic disease risks associated with close contact with animals, such as harvesting and processing animals for food. To address gaps in awareness and mitigation strategies for pathogen transmission risks, we organized community education campaigns using risk reduction and outreach tools focused around living safely with bats and rodents.
Conclusions
These findings expand our knowledge of the viruses circulating in bats and rodents in Ghana and of the beliefs, perceptions, and practices that put community members at risk of zoonotic virus spillover through direct and indirect contact with bats and rodents. This study also highlights the importance of community engagement in research and interventions focused on mitigating risk and living safely with wildlife.
Pollution of Heavy Metal Threat Posed by E-waste Burning and Its Assessment of Human Health Risk
Authors: Abubakar Ahmed , Zangina Aminu Sulaiman , Maigari Ahmed Ibrahim , Badamasi Murtala Muhammad , Ishak Mohd Yusoff , Abdullahi Amina Sheikh , Haruna Jamilu Adamu 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Improper treatment during recycling of e-waste materials by means of open burning is on the rise which has led to increase in air pollution. This study looked at heavy metal concentrations, concentration in relation to threshold values and assessment of risk for non-carcinogenic and cancer risk threat. MP-AES 4210 series instrument of Agilent technology, USA was used in analyzing the heavy metals (Cd, Cu, and Pb) concentration. The result of the analysis at Kuka Bulukiya treatment point revealed Pb has the highest mean concentration of 0.0693 ppm, Cu 0.0525 ppm and Cd having 0.0042 ppm. The mean concentration at PRP G/Ruwa for Cd was found to be 0.0059 ppm, Cu was 0.0363 ppm and Pb was 0.049 ppm respectively. The result of the adult and children population calculated shows that the HQ and HI values are not up to 1 in all the pathways (inhalation, ingestion, and dermal) at both treatment points (1.2 ˟ 10-4 and 9.8 ˟10-5) and (6.4 ˟ 10-4 and 5.9 ˟10-4) respectively. The cancer risk for Kuka Bulukiya 6 ˟ 10-10 and PRP G/Ruwa 5 ˟ 10-10 for adults and 7 ˟ 10-10 and 4 ˟ 10-10 for children were both lower than the threshold set for cancer risk by United States Environmental Protection Agency. This meant that both adults and children were not at risk of cancer and non-carcinogenic threat based on the assessment in this study. The study concluded that informal e-waste burning has substantially helped in the relatively high levels of air pollution identified in the treatment points and in turn posed environmental and public health concerns to people around the area. Climate change adaptation has to do with an environmentally friendly method of dismantling, extracting, refurbishing and recycling of valuable materials that should be at the forefront of policies that will be specifically enacted on e-waste management in developing countries. If not the adverse effects on the environment, humans (damage reproductive, nervous system, kidney, liver, heart and also lead to birth defects and diseases) and animals will be enormous. Government should identify a suitable location for e-waste collection and treatment points to avert the danger posed to the agricultural practices at PRP G/Ruwa treatment point and the pond at Kuka Bulukiya treatment point. Samples of the vegetable products at PRP G/Ruwa treatment point should be investigated immediately and adequate restrictions and regulations should be enacted and enforced in order to safeguard the environment and the populace. There is need for caution from the authorities to avert the possible implications (e-waste extractors and the public) of being affected with non-carcinogenic or carcinogenic ailments over time.