bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Variables of Younger-Aged Cervical Carcinoma Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Drokow Emmanuel Kwateng , Xu Lanlan , Akpabla Gloria Selorm , Ahmed Hafiz Abdul Waqas , Song Juanjuan , Neku Enyonam Adjoa , Sun Kai
Published: May 2021

Purpose. The prevalence of carcinoma of the cervix is increasing in younger women. This study aimed to evaluate the sociodemographic, pathological, and clinical features, prognosis, and treatment of women aged ≤35 years with carcinoma of the cervix (CC). Methods and Materials. We retrospectively analysed the clinical information of 352 younger women with carcinoma of the cervix aged ≤35 years at the Gynaecological Oncology Department of Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital from April 2000 to January 2018. The overall survival was evaluated with the Kaplan–Meier model, and the log-ranked analysis was compared with the univariate analysis to determine prognostic survival-related risk factors. Cox Proportional Hazards analysis was further used in analysing parameters correlated with survival after univariate analysis. A

p

value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. SPSS version 23.0 was used for the data analysis. Results. The most frequent histopathological type observed in the selected 352 younger women was squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (n = 221, 62.9%), adenocarcinoma (n = 125, 35.5%), and adenosquamous carcinoma (n = 6, 1.7%). The 5-year overall survival time was 80.5%. The prognostic risk factors discovered through univariate analysis were tumour stage (IA1-IIB vs. IIIA-IVA) (89.2% vs. 35.1%:

p

value = 0.002), histological type (SCC vs. non-SCC) (95.7% vs. 56.2%:

p

value = 0.001), surgical margin (negative vs. positive) (90.9% vs. 41.2%:

p

value = 0.001), and pelvic lymph node metastasis (no vs. yes) (93.4% vs. 39.2%:

p

value = .001). The Cox proportional hazards test demonstrated that lymph node metastases ([HR] = 2.924, 95% CI: 1.432–7.426;

p
=
0.014

), tumour stage IIIA-IVA ([HR] = 3.765, 95% CI: 1.398–9.765;

p
=
0.016

), and surgical margin ([HR] = 2.167, 95% CI: 1.987–9.554;

p
=
0.019

) were independent prognostic risk factors for overall survival in younger women with cervical carcinoma. Conclusion. In conclusion, the status of lymph node metastases, tumour stage, and surgical margin and the type of histopathology substantially influence the rate of survival.
Some Novel Generalized Strong Coupled Fixed Point Findings in Cone Metric Spaces with Application to Integral Equations
Authors: Rehman Saif Ur , Khan Sami Ullah , Ghaffar Abdul , Yao Shao-Wen , Inc Mustafa
Published: May 2021

Fixed point (FP) has been the heart of several areas of mathematics and other sciences. FP is a beautiful mixture of analysis (pure and applied), topology, and geometry. To construct the link between FP and applied mathematics, this paper will present some generalized strong coupled FP theorems in cone metric spaces. Our consequences give the generalization of “cyclic coupled Kannan-type contraction” given by Choudhury and Maity. We present illustrative examples in support of our results. This new concept will play an important role in the theory of fixed point results and can be generalized for different contractive-type mappings in the context of metric spaces. In addition, we also establish an application in integral equations for the existence of a common solution to support our work.
Antidepressant and Anxiolytic Effects and Subacute Toxicity of the Aerial Parts of Psychotria ankasensis J.B.Hall (Rubiaceae) in Murine Models
Authors: Armah Francis Ackah , Henneh Isaac Tabiri , Amponsah Isaac Kingsley , Biney Robert Peter , Malcolm Fynn , Alake John , Ahlidja Wisdom , Ahmed Mustapha Abubakar , Adokoh Christian Kweku , Adukpo Genevieve Etornam , Acheampong Desmond Omane , Gathumbi Peter K.
Published: May 2021

Background. The present study aimed at validating the traditional use and toxicity profile of a methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Psychotria ankasensis in alleviating depression and anxiety disorders. Method. The antidepressant effect of methanolic extract of Psychotria ankasensis (PAE 30, 100, and 300 mg/kg, p.o.) was assessed in mice using the forced swim test (FST) and the tail suspension test (TST). The plant's anxiolytic potential was also evaluated in mice using the elevated plus-maze (EPM) and the open field tests (OFT). The subacute toxicity was assessed via oral administration of PAE at doses of 100, 300, and 1000 mg/kg in rats for 28 days. Results. PAE 100 and 300 mg/kg showed antidepressant-like properties by significantly (at least

p
<
0.05

) decreasing the frequency and duration of immobility in FST and TST. PAE (100 and 300 mg/kg) also showed a significant (at least

p
<
0.05

) anxiolytic effect in both EPM and OFT. In the EPM test, Emax for PAE and diazepam were 92.52 ± 40.11% and 85.95 ± 45.92%, respectively, whereas Emax was approximately 100% for both test drugs in the OFT. Subacute administration of PAE did not reveal any toxic effects with respect to organ weight index, haematological, serum biochemical, and histopathological parameters. Conclusions. Methanolic extract of P. ankasensis exhibited antidepressant-like and anxiolytic-like effects devoid of significant toxicity at the doses tested in murine models.
Quantitative Method for Evaluating Shale Oil Resources Based on Movable Oil Content
Authors: Xianzheng Zhao , Xiugang Pu , Fengming Jin , Wenzhong Han , Zhannan Shi , Wei Zhang , Xiongying Dong , Hu Wang , Haodong Li
Published: May 2021

The light hydrocarbon content (

S

1

) of shale oil is lost in aboveground experimental measurements, which do not accurately reflect actual underground light hydrocarbon content and cannot meet the demands of resource quantity calculation. Based on field and laboratory experimental data from the second member of the Kongdian Formation in the Cangdong Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, the retained oil and movable oil contents in shale were calculated using a mathematical formula, and the total resources were quantified. The correction coefficient of

S

1

from pyrolysis and the adsorption of oil by the total organic carbon (TOC) were determined to be 1.25 and 100 mg/g, respectively. The calculated parameter movable oil content (

S

movable

) and the corresponding calculation formula of

S

1

are proposed. The lower limit of

S

1

is 100 mg HC/g rock, the TOC content is 4 wt % and 6 wt %, and the corrected movable oil content of 3 mg/g and 6 mg/g, respectively, will be of great significance in shale oil geology and engineering. The optimal geological and engineering settings are divided into three categories and eight subcategories on the basis of these findings. Methods for evaluating total, movable, and recoverable oil resources from shale are discussed, which elucidate a new method for quantitative evaluation and ranking of shale oil resources. This approach is suitable for application in other shale oil exploration and development areas globally.
Impact of Adjuvant Use of Midodrine to Intravenous Vasopressors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Al-Abdouh Ahmad , Haddadin Sadam , Matta Atul , Jabri Ahmad , Barbarawi Mahmoud , Abusnina Waiel , Radideh Qais , Mhanna Mohammed , Suffredini Dante A. , Michos Erin D.
Published: May 2021

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of midodrine use in intensive care units (ICU) to facilitate weaning off intravenous vasopressors (IVV). Methods. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar (inception through October 18th, 2020) for studies evaluating adjuvant use of midodrine to IVV in the ICU. The outcomes of interest were ICU length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, mortality, IVV reinstitution, ICU readmission, and bradycardia. Estimates were pooled using the random-effects model. We reported effect sizes as standardized mean difference (SMD) for continuous outcomes and risk ratios (RRs) for other outcomes with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results. A total of 6 studies were found that met inclusion criteria and had sufficient data for our quantitative analysis (1 randomized controlled trial and 5 retrospective studies). A total of 2,857 patients were included: 600 in the midodrine group and 2,257 patients in the control group. Midodrine use was not associated with a significant difference in ICU LOS (SMD 0.16 days; 95% CI −0.23 to 0.55), hospital LOS (SMD 0.03 days; 95% CI −0.33 to 0.0.39), mortality (RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.52 to 1.46), IVV reinstitution (RR 0.47; 95% CI 0.17 to 1.3), or ICU readmission (RR 1.03; 95% CI 0.71 to 1.49) when compared to using only IVV. However, there were higher trends of bradycardia with midodrine use that did not reach significance (RR 7.64; 95% CI 0.23 to 256.42). Conclusion. This meta-analysis suggests that midodrine was not associated with a significant decrease in ICU LOS, hospital LOS, mortality, or ICU readmissions.
Assisting and Opposing Stagnation Point Pseudoplastic Nano Liquid Flow towards a Flexible Riga Sheet: A Computational Approach
Authors: Rehman Aysha , Hussain Azad , Nadeem Sohail
Published: May 2021

Nanofluids are used as coolants in heat transport devices like heat exchangers, radiators, and electronic cooling systems (like a flat plate) because of their improved thermal properties. The preeminent perspective of this study is to highlight the influence of combined convection on heat transfer and pseudoplastic non-Newtonian nanofluid flow towards an extendable Riga surface. Buongiorno model is incorporated in the present study to tackle a diverse range of Reynolds numbers and to analyze the behavior of the pseudoplastic nanofluid flow. Nanofluid features are scrutinized through Brownian motion and thermophoresis diffusion. By the use of the boundary layer principle, the compact form of flow equations is transformed into component forms. The modeled system is numerically simulated. The effects of various physical parameters on skin friction, mass transfer, and thermal energy are numerically computed. Fluctuations of velocity increased when modified Hartmann number and mixed convection parameter are boosted, where it collapses for Weissenberg number and width parameter. It can be revealed that the temperature curve gets down if modified Hartmann number, mixed convection, and buoyancy ratio parameters upgrade. Concentration patterns diminish when there is an incline in width parameter and Lewis number; on the other hand, it went upward for Brownian motion parameter, modified Hartmann, and Prandtl number.
Role of Oxidative Stress in Reperfusion following Myocardial Ischemia and Its Treatments
Authors: Xiang Mi , Lu Yingdong , Xin Laiyun , Gao Jialiang , Shang Chang , Jiang Zhilin , Lin Hongchen , Fang Xuqin , Qu Yi , Wang Yuling , Shen Zihuan , Zhao Mingjing , Cui Xiangning
Published: May 2021

Myocardial ischemia is a disease with high morbidity and mortality, for which reperfusion is currently the standard intervention. However, the reperfusion may lead to further myocardial damage, known as myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI). Oxidative stress is one of the most important pathological mechanisms in reperfusion injury, which causes apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, and some other damage in cardiomyocytes through multiple pathways, thus causing irreversible cardiomyocyte damage and cardiac dysfunction. This article reviews the pathological mechanisms of oxidative stress involved in reperfusion injury and the interventions for different pathways and targets, so as to form systematic treatments for oxidative stress‐induced myocardial reperfusion injury and make up for the lack of monotherapy.
Role of Local Biofertilizer in Enhancing the Oxidative Stress Defence Systems of Date Palm Seedling (Phoenix dactylifera) against Abiotic Stress
Authors: Harkousse Oumaima , Slimani Afafe , Jadrane Issam , Aitboulahsen Mohamed , Mazri Mouaad Amine , Zouahri Abdelmjid , Ouahmane Lahcen , Koussa Tayeb , Al Feddy Mohamed Najib
Published: May 2021

Among the abiotic stresses, drought is the first environmental stress responsible for a decrease in agricultural production worldwide; it affects plants in various ways, including slowing down plant growth and disrupting its general physiology. Arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are considered to be the bioameliorators of the plant’s resistance to water stress. The present study investigated the effects of inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and PGPR on the water status and antioxidant enzyme activities of date palm seedlings grown under water stress conditions. The parameters related to the plant’s water status were significantly (

p
<
0.05

) higher in the plants treated with mycorrhizae and mycorrhizae + bacteria compared with their respective controls, especially under water stress conditions. The maximum proline content was obtained in plants inoculated with the AMF species and PGPR (combined) under severe water stress conditions reaching a value of 2.588 ± 0.034 in 25% field capacity, compared with 0.978 ± 0.024 for the control. In addition, the inoculated seedlings showed notably lower activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in response to severe water stress compared with nonmycorrhizal seedling. Overall, the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis and PGPR bacteria inoculation could be promising methods to enhance date palm resistance against oxidative stress.
A New Initialization Approach in Particle Swarm Optimization for Global Optimization Problems
Authors: Bangyal Waqas Haider , Hameed Abdul , Alosaimi Wael , Alyami Hashem
Published: May 2021

Particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is a population‐based intelligent stochastic search technique used to search for food with the intrinsic manner of bee swarming. PSO is widely used to solve the diverse problems of optimization. Initialization of population is a critical factor in the PSO algorithm, which considerably influences the diversity and convergence during the process of PSO. Quasirandom sequences are useful for initializing the population to improve the diversity and convergence, rather than applying the random distribution for initialization. The performance of PSO is expanded in this paper to make it appropriate for the optimization problem by introducing a new initialization technique named WELL with the help of low‐discrepancy sequence. To solve the optimization problems in large‐dimensional search spaces, the proposed solution is termed as WE‐PSO. The suggested solution has been verified on fifteen well‐known unimodal and multimodal benchmark test problems extensively used in the literature, Moreover, the performance of WE‐PSO is compared with the standard PSO and two other initialization approaches Sobol‐based PSO (SO‐PSO) and Halton‐based PSO (H‐PSO). The findings indicate that WE‐PSO is better than the standard multimodal problem‐solving techniques. The results validate the efficacy and effectiveness of our approach. In comparison, the proposed approach is used for artificial neural network (ANN) learning and contrasted to the standard backpropagation algorithm, standard PSO, H‐PSO, and SO‐PSO, respectively. The results of our technique has a higher accuracy score and outperforms traditional methods. Also, the outcome of our work presents an insight on how the proposed initialization technique has a high effect on the quality of cost function, integration, and diversity aspects.
IL-1β Impaired Diabetic Wound Healing by Regulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 through the p38 Pathway
Authors: Dai Jiezhi , Shen Junjie , Chai Yimin , Chen Hua
Published: May 2021

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prominent metabolic disorders in the world, and insulin resistance in diabetic patients leads to several complications including increased inflammation and delayed wound healing. Fibroblast migration and reepithelialization play a significant role in wound healing. In this study, we explored the effects of IL-1β signaling on proliferation and migration of human fibroblasts from diabetic wound tissues. We observed elevated levels of IL-1β in samples from diabetic patients when compared to normal wound tissues. At high concentrations, IL-1β inhibited cell proliferation and migration in ex vivo fibroblast cultures. Moreover, expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) was upregulated, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) was downregulated in diabetic wound tissues and cells. These effects were regulated by levels of IL-1β. Furthermore, IL-1β induced p38 phosphorylation thereby activating the p38 MAPK pathway that in turn regulated the expression of MMPs and TIMPs. Together, our study identifies a novel mechanism behind delayed wound closure in diabetes mellitus that involves IL-1β-dependent regulation of cell proliferation and migration.
Simulation and Experimental Study of Terahertz Wave Transmission Characteristics Based on Periodic Metal Open Resonant Ring Structures
Authors: Ren Yunpeng , Li Zhiyu , Chen Yan , Ye Yunxia , Xin Zhiduo , Lu Heng , Wan Hanyu , Yao Jianquan
Published: May 2021

Different open resonant ring structures with substrate of polyimide were designed. The transmission characteristics of the structures for terahertz wave were investigated by simulation and experiment. The results show that the transmission peak of the structures moves to high frequency with increase of thickness of the metal layer. With increase of substrate thickness, the transmission peak moved to low frequency and the transmissivity decreased. The influence of number of “C” shape open resonant rings in the unit structure on the transmission characteristics of terahertz wave was also studied. It is found that when the number of “C” shape open resonant rings increases from one to two, more transmission peaks appeared in the frequency of 0.2–2 THz. The transmissivity of the designed structures was tested by terahertz time-domain spectrometer (THz-TDS). The experimental results showed good agreement to the simulation results.
Off-Label Use of 0.19 mg Fluocinolone Acetonide Intravitreal Implant: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ribeiro Flávio , Falcão Manuel S.
Published: May 2021

Corticosteroids are used in a variety of ophthalmological diseases. One challenge faced by ophthalmologists is to deliver corticosteroids to the posterior segment of the eye with efficacy and safety. Sustained-release corticosteroid implants may be the answer to this problem. The 0.19 mg fluocinolone acetonide (FAc) implant (Iluvien®) releases FAc for 36 months, and it is approved for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) and noninfectious uveitis. We decided to do a systematic review to acknowledge in which other diseases FAc implant is being used off-label. A literature search was performed in the following three electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (from January 1st, 2000, to September 20th, 2020), using the following query: (“Fluocinolone Acetonide” OR Iluvien®) AND (“eye” OR “ocular” OR “intravitreal).” A total of 11 papers were included, and the use of FAc implant was analyzed in the following diseases: radiation-induced maculopathy (RM); paraneoplastic visual syndromes (melanoma-associated retinopathy (MAR) and cancer-associated retinopathy (CAR)); Sjogren’s syndrome-related keratopathy; retinal vein occlusion (RVO); cystoid macular edema (CME); diabetic retinal neurodegeneration (DRN); and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). FAc implant may be a potential treatment for these diseases; however, the level of scientific evidence of the included studies in this review is limited. Further studies with larger cohorts and longer follow-ups are needed to validate this data.
FGF23: A Review of Its Role in Mineral Metabolism and Renal and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Kurpas Anna , Supeł Karolina , Idzikowska Karolina , Zielińska Marzenna
Published: May 2021

FGF23 is a hormone secreted mainly by osteocytes and osteoblasts in bone. Its pivotal role concerns the maintenance of mineral ion homeostasis. It has been confirmed that phosphate and vitamin D metabolisms are related to the effect of FGF23 and its excess or deficiency leads to various hereditary diseases. Multiple studies have shown that FGF23 level increases in the very early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and its concentration may also be highly associated with cardiac complications. The present review is limited to some of the most important aspects of calcium and phosphate metabolism. It discusses the role of FGF23, which is considered an early and sensitive marker for CKD-related bone disease but also as a novel and potent cardiovascular risk factor. Furthermore, this review gives particular attention to the reliability of FGF23 measurement and various confounding factors that may impact on the clinical utility of FGF23. Finally, this review elaborates on the clinical usefulness of FGF23 and evaluates whether FGF23 may be considered a therapeutic target.
Retrograde Popliteal Access for Challenging Superficial Femoral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Ibrahim Georges , Nabhani Sami , Feghaly Michel
Published: May 2021

Retrograde popliteal access has long been established as an alternative to the antegrade approach to occlusive lesions in the superficial femoral artery (SFA). However, early reports with high complication rates (dissection, hematomas, aneurysms, and arteriovenous shunts at the puncture site) reduced enthusiasm for this technique. In recent years, with the development of thinner sheaths and low profile angioplasty devices, retrograde popliteal access has resurfaced as a viable technique, mostly in combination with or after failure of the more classical antegrade approach. In this retrospective study, we will report the safety and efficacy of the retrograde popliteal approach in the treatment of superficial femoral artery chronic total occlusions, in 13 consecutive patients between January 2017 and January 2021. The results showed 100% successful puncture of the popliteal artery and 100% successful recanalization and stenting of the superficial femoral artery with a total of 2 complications related to the puncture site and zero periprocedural mortality. In conclusion, the retrograde popliteal approach appears to be an effective and safe alternative to the common SFA complete total occlusion (CTO) treatment approach.
Experimental Study on Initial Damage Point of Deep Granite under Step Cyclic Loading Method
Authors: Chen Lu , Wu Shan , Guo Lijie
Published: May 2021

In deep engineering, the initial damage point of host rock has become an important concern. Nowadays, there are many methods which can work out the initial damage point. However, each existing method introduces some significant subjective or parametric errors. In this paper, a new determination method of initial damage point employing step cyclic loading tests was designed and a series of tests were conducted on deep granite. After analyzing the peak strength and effect of cyclic loading, the turning point of initial damage was confirmed. The testing results show that the turning stress of initial damage was about 45% peak strength and will present a little decrease with the confining pressure increasing. These calculated damage points are much more scientific, accurate, and intuitive, which provides a new method for the study on rock mechanics in deep mining.
Structural and Morphological Studies of V2O5/MWCNTs and ZrO2/MWCNTs Composites as Photocatalysts
Authors: Iqbal Sajid , Bokhari Tanveer Hussain , Latif Shoomaila , Imran Muhammad , Javaid Ayesha , Mitu Liviu
Published: May 2021

The present study outlines the synthesis of transition metal oxide- (TMO-) multiwall carbon nanotubes- (MWCNTs-) based composites for photocatalytic application. MWCNTs were functionalized/purified by treating with H2SO4 and HNO3 to improve their dispersion in water. The TMOs (ZrO2, V2O5) were decorated on MWCNTs by the hydrothermal method to yield V2O5/MWCNTs and ZrO2/MWCNTs composites. Subsequently, these composites were characterized for their structural/morphological studies by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Photocatalytic activities of TMO/MWCNTs composites were investigated by degradation phenomenon of methylene blue (MB) dye in aqueous solution. It was observed that the prepared composites best performed in the presence of H2O2 under ultraviolet irradiation. The maximum observed degradation efficiencies for ZrO2/MWCNTs and V2O5/MWCNTs were 49% and 96%, respectively.
Determination of Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Crimean–Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in the Endemic Region in Turkey: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Çıtıl Rıza , Eğri Mücahit , Önder Yalçın , Duygu Fazilet , Bulut Yunus Emre , Yaşayancan Özkan , Yıldız Çeltek Nagehan , Şahin Şafak
Published: May 2021

Objectives. Turkey is one of the countries that has the most cases of CCHF in recent years among the endemic countries. The disease also poses an important health threat with high mortality rate. The aim of the study was to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of CCHF in adults aged ≥20 years in Tokat in the endemic region, Turkey. Methods. In this population-based cross-sectional study, a total of 85 Family Medicine Units (FMUs), from over 170 in Tokat, were randomly selected using 50% sampling. The sample size was determined among the subjects aged ≥20 who registered with the FMUs, due to gender, age group, and the urban/rural population size of Tokat using the stratified cluster sampling method. Subjects were invited to the FMUs. A questionnaire was performed face to face. The blood samples were taken, and anti-CCHFV IgG antibodies were measured with ELISA method. Results. 1272 (54.9%) out of 2319 participants were female, and the mean age was 47.3 ± 15.3. Anti-CCHFV IgG seropositivity was 5.6% (n = 130). Seropositivity rates in terms of adjusted odds ratios (AOR) were higher 2.53 times (95% CI: 1.57–4.08;

p
=
0.001

) in males; 4.05 (95% CI: 2.14–7.65;

p
<
0.001

) in age group ≥65; 0.33 (95% CI: 0.14–0.76;

p
<
0.001

) in graduates of high school and above; 0.71 (95%CI: 0.33–1.52;

p
<
0.001

) in ones with good income; 1.84 (95%CI: 1.18–2.86;

p
<
0.001

) in farmers; 1.64 (95% CI: 1.04–2.27;

p
<
0.001

) in people dealing with animal husbandry; and 1.02 (95% CI: 1.03–2.29;

p
<
0.001

) in those with history of tick contact. Conclusions. CCHF seroprevalence is still a common public health problem in Tokat, Turkey. Male gender, advanced age group, low-educated, low-income, farmers, animal husbandry, and history of tick contact were found to be risk factors for CCHF. The importance of this kind of community-based studies to identify the seroprevalence in regional and national level increases even more.
Development of Internet Supply Chain Finance Based on Artificial Intelligence under the Enterprise Green Business Model
Authors: Zhang Jun
Published: May 2021

At present, China’s economic development has made unprecedented progress, but it is also facing a severe situation, and the environmental carrying capacity has almost reached its limit. For this reason, the government vigorously promotes the construction of ecological civilization and advocates green development, circular development, and low-carbon development. Enterprise green operation is a business activity that integrates environmental protection into the whole process of enterprise operation and management. It requires the guiding ideology of business operations and every link of business management to be based on environmental protection. The purpose of this article is to solve the problems between the development of corporate GDP and green protection and analyze the impact of green business development policies on China’s corporate GDP. In order to further clarify the impact of green development on social development of Chinese enterprises, this paper investigates the economic and environmental aspects of green transformation enterprises nationwide. The research results show that China’s green enterprise development has achieved remarkable development achievements. The average growth rate of China’s green development GDP in recent years has begun to significantly exceed the average growth rate of green GDP over the same period. The average annual growth rate of the enterprise’s total economic growth of green environmental protection GDP has reached 11.58%, surpassing the average growth rate of the green GDP economy of the same period of 0.12%. Chinese companies have also achieved impressive corporate achievements following the implementation of the national guidelines for green development. For the first time in 31 inland provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions in China, chemical companies have achieved green production, and the average GDP growth rate has reached 8.75% for the first time.
Compulsory Islanding Transition Strategy Based on Fuzzy Logic Control for a Renewable Microgrid System
Authors: Wan Jiexing , Hua Wei , Wang Baoan
Published: May 2021

Advantages of microgrid integrated with a renewable energy system have been acknowledged in more and more applications. Operating steadily during different modes is of great significance, and different modes transferring must be transient, seamless, and reliable to maintain the continuous electricity supply for loads, especially sensitive ones. As a semicontrolled switch that is unable to shut instantly until the zero point of its current, thyristors should be forced to be turned off by certain strategies to minimise the influence brought by the delay of modes transferring. In this paper, a compulsory turn-off strategy based on fuzzy logic control of converter output voltage is proposed. With the strategy, an alterable reverse voltage is applied across the conducting thyristor by dynamically adjusting the output voltage reference instruction and closed-loop control parameters depending on the changing rate rather than detecting the polarity of voltage or current. Constraints from acquisition of analog data and error of digital calculation will be eliminated. Finally, simulation and experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
Deformation Law and Control Measures of Gob‐Side Entry Filled with Gangue in Deep Gobs: A Case Study
Authors: Liu Xun , Tu Shihao , Hao Dingyi , Lu Yida , Miao Kaijun , Li Wenlong
Published: May 2021

Aiming at the large deformation problem of gob‐side entry in solid filling mining, the roof subsidence of gob‐side entry retaining (GER) was studied under the influence of gangue filling, by taking a deep filling working face in Shandong Province as the engineering background and using theoretical derivation as well as FLAC3D numerical simulation. Research shows that the stiffness of the gangue filling body in the gob and the stiffness and width of the entry protection coal and rock mass (EPCARM) are positively correlated with the GER roof subsidence, which is much less affected by the EPCARM parameters than by the GER stiffness. The GER failure to meet the application requirements is mainly attributed to the insufficient stiffness of the gangue filling body and excessive advance subsidence, which inhibit the roof stress transfer. The GER replacement by the gob‐side entry driving (GED) scheme, which implies replacing the entry protection gangue bag wall with the coal pillar with a width of 5 m, will reduce the roof subsidence to 0.114 m, according to the proposed equation. The results obtained are considered quite instrumental in deformation control of the gob‐side entry filled with gangue, as well as substantiation of GED and GER applicability options.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognostic Factors of Posterior Segment Intraocular Foreign Body: Canadian Experience from a Tertiary University Hospital in Quebec
Authors: Rozon Jean-Philippe , Lavertu Guillaume , Hébert Mélanie , You Eunice , Bourgault Serge , Caissie Mathieu , Tourville Eric , Dirani Ali
Published: May 2021

Purpose. To identify predictive factors for visual outcomes of patients presenting with a posterior segment intraocular foreign body (IOFB). Methods. A retrospective chart review was performed for all consecutive patients operated for posterior segment IOFB removal between January 2009 and December 2018. Data were collected for patient demographics, clinical characteristics at presentation, IOFB characteristics, surgical procedures, and postoperative outcomes. A multiple logistic regression model was built for poor final visual acuity (VA) as an outcome (defined as final VA 50 letters or worse [Snellen equivalent: 20/100]). Results. Fifty-four patients were included in our study. Ninety-three percent of patients were men, with a mean age of 40.4 ± 12.6 years. Metallic IOFB comprised 88% of cases with a mean ± standard deviation (SD) size of 5.31 ± 4.62 mm. VA improved in 70% of patients after IOFB removal. Predictive factors for poor VA outcome included poor baseline VA, larger IOFB size, high number of additional diagnoses, an anterior chamber extraction, a second intervention, the use of C3F8 or silicone tamponade, and the presence of vitreous hemorrhage, hyphema, and iris damage. Predictive factors for a better visual outcome included first intention intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and the use of air tamponade. In the multiple logistic regression model, both baseline VA (

p

 = 0.009) and number of additional complications (

p

 = 0.01) were independent risk factors for a poor final VA. Conclusions. A high number of concomitant complications and poor baseline VA following posterior segment IOFB were significant predictive factors of poor visual outcome.
Intracellular and Extracellular Lipopolysaccharide Signaling in Sepsis: Avenues for Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Gabarin Ramy S. , Li Manshu , Zimmel Paige A. , Marshall John C. , Li Yimin , Zhang Haibo
Published: May 2021

Sepsis is defined as organ dysfunction due to a dysregulated systemic host response to infection. During gram-negative bacterial infection and other acute illness such as absorption from the gut infection, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major mediator in sepsis. LPS is able to trigger inflammation through both intracellular and extracellular pathways. Classical interactions between LPS and host cells first involve LPS binding to LPS binding protein (LBP), a carrier. The LPS-LBP complex then binds to a receptor complex including the CD14, MD2, and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) proteins, initiating a signal cascade which triggers the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, it has been established that LPS is also internalized by macrophages and endothelial cells through TLR4-independent pathways. Once internalized, LPS is able to bind to the cytosolic receptors caspases-4/5 in humans and the homologous caspase-11 in mice. Bound caspases-4/5 oligomerize and trigger the assembly of the nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 inflammasome followed by the activation of inflammatory caspase-1 resulting in subsequent release of interleukin-1β. Caspases-4/5 also activate the perforin gasdermin D and purinergic receptor P2X7, inducing cell lysis and pyroptosis. Pyroptosis is a notable source of inflammation and damage to the lung endothelial barrier during sepsis. Thus, inhibition of caspases-4/5/1 or downstream effectors to block intracellular LPS signaling may be a promising therapeutic approach in adjunction with neutralizing extracellular LPS for treatment of sepsis.
Postdischarge Recovery after Acute Pediatric Lung Disease Can Be Quantified with Digital Biomarkers
Authors: Kruizinga Matthijs D. , Moll Allison , Zhuparris Ahnjili , Ziagkos Dimitrios , Stuurman Frederik E. , Nuijsink Marianne , Cohen Adam F. , Driessen Gertjan J.A.
Published: May 2021

Background: Pediatric patients admitted for acute lung disease are treated and monitored in the hospital, after which full recovery is achieved at home. Many studies report in-hospital recovery, but little is known regarding the time to full recovery after hospital discharge. Technological innovations have led to increased interest in home-monitoring and digital biomarkers. The aim of this study was to describe at-home recovery of 3 common pediatric respiratory diseases using a questionnaire and wearable device. Methods: In this study, patients admitted due to pneumonia (n = 30), preschool wheezing (n = 30), and asthma exacerbation (AE; n = 11) were included. Patients were monitored with a smartwatch and a questionnaire during admission, with a 14-day recovery period and a 10-day “healthy” period. Median compliance was calculated, and a mixed-effects model was fitted for physical activity and heart rate (HR) to describe the recovery period, and the physical activity recovery trajectory was correlated to respiratory symptom scores. Results: Median compliance was 47% (interquartile range [IQR] 33–81%) during the entire study period, 68% (IQR 54–91%) during the recovery period, and 28% (IQR 0–74%) during the healthy period. Patients with pneumonia reached normal physical activity 12 days postdischarge, while subjects with wheezing and AE reached this level after 5 and 6 days, respectively. Estimated mean physical activity was closely correlated with the estimated mean symptom score. HR measured by the smartwatch showed a similar recovery trajectory for subjects with wheezing and asthma, but not for subjects with pneumonia. Conclusions: The digital biomarkers, physical activity, and HR obtained via smartwatch show promise for quantifying postdischarge recovery in a noninvasive manner, which can be useful in pediatric clinical trials and clinical care.
Preoperative Alpha-Blocker Therapy in Patients with Missed Preoperative Diagnosis of Extra-Adrenal Retroperitoneal Paraganglioma Undergoing Resection: A Retrospective Study of 167 Cases at a Single Center
Authors: Liu Yi , Jin Xinye , Gao Jie , Jiang Shan , Liu Lei , Lou Jingsheng , Wang Bo , Zhang Hong , Fu Qiang
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Preoperative α-adrenergic blockade is thought to decrease perioperative risks and mortality in surgeries for adrenal pheochromocytoma. However, there are limited data on the efficacy of α-blockers in surgeries for retroperitoneal paragangliomas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the preoperative α-adrenergic blockade on outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for extra-adrenal retroperitoneal paraganglioma. Methods: We searched the clinical database for patients diagnosed with extra-adrenal retroperitoneal paraganglioma by postoperative histopathology in the General Hospital of People’s Liberation Army in China from 2000 to 2017. We compared the preoperative status of patients, preoperative examination, preoperative preparation, intraoperative and postoperative cardiovascular events, intake and output, length of stay in the intensive care unit, length of hospital stays, and short-term outcomes between patients who received preoperative treatment with α-adrenergic blockade and those who did not. Results: Of the 167 patients enrolled in the study, 61 received preoperative α-adrenergic blockade therapy. Intraoperative heart rate elevation and highest heart rate were higher in patients undergoing tumor manipulation with preoperative α-adrenergic blockade than those who did not (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences between these 2 groups in terms of intraoperative blood pressure elevation and systolic blood pressure decrease following tumorectomy (p > 0.05). Moreover, there were no significant differences in postoperative complications and outcomes (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Under the current medical practice, resection of extra-adrenal retroperitoneal paraganglioma can be successfully carried out with or without preoperative α-adrenergic blockade.
КОНЦЕПТУАЛЬНЕ МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ ЯКОСТІ ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНОЇ ДОПОМОГИ З ПОЗИЦІЙ ЇЇ ТЕРМІНОСТРУКТУРНИХ ЕЛЕМЕНТІВ ТА ВЗАЄМОЗВ’ЯЗКУ З ЛОГІСТИЧНИМ ОБСЛУГОВУВАННЯМ ПАЦІЄНТА
Authors: Korolyov M. V.
Published: May 2021

Мета роботи. Опрацювання концептуальної моделі взаємозв’язку основних характеристик якості фармацевтичної допомоги з її терміноструктурними елементами та складовими логістичного обслуговування пацієнта.

Матеріали  і  методи.  Матеріалом дослідження були теоретичні питання фармацевтичної допомоги та логістичного обслуговування пацієнта. Використано методи наукового узагальнення та моделювання.

Результати  й  обговорення.  На основі узагальнення вербального опису прикмет дев’яти характеристик якості фармацевтичної допомоги (належний терапевтичний конкорданс, пацієнт-орієнтованість результатів, доступність, раціональність, ефективність, безпечність, своєчасність, відсутність (мінімізація) лікопов’язаних помилок і неперервність), її чотирьох терміноструктурних елементів (надавачі й отримувачі, предмет і очікуваний результат) та семи складових логістичного обслуговування пацієнта (необхідному пацієнту необхідні лікарські засоби необхідної дози необхідної якості необхідної вартості у необхідному місці та в необхідний час) здійснено їхню структуризацію та визначено особливості взаємозв’язку у вигляді концептуальної моделі. Важливість опрацьованої концептуальної моделі полягає передусім у тому, що вона уможливлює наочну оцінку рівня фармацевтичної допомоги з позиції її багатоаспектності та дає можливість прийняти раціональні управлінські рішення щодо покращення якості фармацевтичної допомоги.

Висновки. Здійснено концептуальне моделювання і наукове обґрунтування теоретичних засад взаємозв’язку якості фармацевтичної допомоги з її терміноструктурними елементами та складовими логістичного обслуговування пацієнта.
ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ ВПЛИВУ ПРИРОДИ ДОПОМІЖНИХ РЕЧОВИН НА ПОКАЗНИКИ ЯКОСТІ ТАБЛЕТОК ІЗ ЛІОФІЛІЗОВАНИМ ПОРОШКОМ ТРУТНЕВОГО ГОМОГЕНАТУ
Authors: Hroshovyi T. A. , Pavliuk B. V. , Chubka M. B. , Stechyshyn I. P. , Dobrynchuk M. M.
Published: May 2021

Мета роботи. Вивчення впливу допоміжних речовин (ДР) на фармако-технологічні показники порошкових мас та таблеток на основі ліофілізованого порошку трутневого гомогенату з метою розробки складу таблеток.

Матеріали і методи. Активний фармацевтичний інгредієнт – ліофілізований порошок трутневого гомогенату, а також ДР, які розділені у 5 груп за функціональним призначенням. Таблетки отримували методом прямого пресування. Дослідження впливу ДР на фармако-технологічні показники порошкових мас та таблеток, проводили методами, регламентованими ДФУ.

Результати й обговорення. Дослідження проведені на основі п’ятифакторного експерименту на підставі гіпер-греко-латинського квадрату 5х5. Вивчено вплив ДР різних груп, а саме, зразків мікрокристалічної целюлози (МКЦ), наповнювачів на основі цукрів, розпушувачів, ковзних (регуляторів вологи) та змащувальних речовин на процес пресування таблеток із ліофілізованим порошком трутневого гомогенату. Результати дослідження показують, що на насипну густину порошкових мас, кут природного укосу, процес пресування, середню масу та однорідність маси таблеток найбільше впливають ковзні речовини (регулятори вологи). Розпушуючі речовини є визначальними по впливу на час розпадання таблеток.

Для прийняття рішення про вибір оптимальних ДР використано узагальнені показники – функції бажаності та корисності.

Висновок. Вивчено вплив 25-ти ДР на фармако-технологічні показники порошкових мас та таблеток з ліофілізованим порошком трутневого гомогенату. За сукупністю вивчених показників відібрано кращі поєднання ДР з метою подальшого вивчення їх впливу: Neusilin US 2, Neusilin UFL 2, кальцію фосфат двоосновний (фактор D); натрію крохмальгліколят і натрію карбоксиметилкрохмаль (фактор С); натрію лаурилсульфат і кальцію стеарат (фактор Е); Prosolv SMCC 90 та МКЦ 102 (фактор А); Ludipress та Emdex dextrates (фактор В).
СИНТЕЗ ТА ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ АНТИМІКРОБНОЇ АКТИВНОСТІ ДЕЯКИХ ПІРАЗОЛЗАМІЩЕНИХ 7H-[1,2,4]ТРИАЗОЛО[3,4-B][1,3,4]ТІАДІАЗИНІВ
Authors: Myrko I. I. , Chaban T. I. , Ogurtsov V. V. , Matiychuk V. S.
Published: May 2021

Мета роботи. Здійснити синтез деяких нових піразолзаміщених 7H-[1,2,4]триазоло[3,4-b][1,3,4]тіадіазинів та провести дослідження антимікробних властивостей синтезованих сполук.

Матеріали і методи. Органічний синтез, ЯМР-спектроскопія, елементний аналіз, фармакологічний скринінг.

Результати й обговорення. У результаті взаємодії eтил (2Z)-хлоро(фенілгідразоно)ацетатів з ацетилацетоном було отримано етил 4-ацетил-5-метил-1-феніл-1H-піразол-3-карбоксилати. Зазначені сполуки піддали бромуванню, що дозволило одержати цільові бромкетони. Синтезовані на даній стадії етил 1-арил-4-(бромацетил)-5-метил-1Н-піразол-3-карбоксилати було введено у взаємодію з 4-аміно-5-арил(гетарил)-2,4-дигідро-3Н-1,2,4-триазол-3-тіонами з подальшим формуванням 1,3,4-тіадіазольного циклу та отриманням відповідних етил 1-арил-4-{3-арил(гетарил)-7H-[1,2,4]триазоло[3,4-b][1,3,4]тіадіазин-6-іл)}-5-метил-1H-піразол-3-карбоксилатів. Структура синтезованих сполук підтверджена даними елементного аналізу та ЯМР спектроскопією. В рамках міжнародного проекту "The Community for Antimicrobial Drug Discovery" (CO-ADD) за підтримки Wellcome Trust (Великобританія) і університету Квінсленда (Австралія) для синтезованих сполук здійснено скринінг антимікробної активності. Як тестові мікроорганізми використовували п'ять штамів бактерій: Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 700603, Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC 19606, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 43300 та двох штамів грибків: Candida albicans ATCC 90028 і Cryptococcus neoformans ATCC 208821. Встановлено, що досліджувані сполуки виявляють різноманітну дію, від практично повної її відсутності до виразного антимікробного ефекту.

Висновки. Здійснено синтез 12 нових етил 1-арил-4-{3-арил(гетарил)-7H-[1,2,4]триазоло[3,4-b][1,3,4]тіадіазин-6-іл)}-5-метил-1H-піразол-3-карбоксилатів. Зазначені речовини отримані шляхом взаємодії відповідних етил 1-арил-4-(бромацетил)-5-метил-1Н-піразол-3-карбоксилатів з 4-аміно-5-арил(гетарил)-2,4-дигідро-3Н-1,2,4-триазол-3-тіонами. Дослідження антимікробної активності синтезованих сполук демонструють потенціал пошуку антимікробних агентів серед зазначеного класу сполук.
Хірургічне лікування хронічної ішемії, що загрожує втраті нижньої кінцівки, у хворих із оклюзивно-стенотичним ураженням гомілкових артерій
Authors: Венгер І. К. , Костів С. Я. , Ковальський Д. В. , Сельський Б. П. , Хвалибога Д. В.
Published: May 2021

Мета роботи: покращити результати хірургічного лікування хронічної ішемії, що загрожує втраті нижньої кінцівки, в умовах оклюзивно-стенотичного процесу гомілкових артерій.

Матеріали і методи. Реваскуляризуючі операційні втручання на інфраінгвінальному артеріальному руслі при стенотично-оклюзивному ураженні гомілкових артерій проведено у 95 пацієнтів. З метою встановлення характеру та поширеності оклюзивно-стенотичного ураження інфраінгвінального артеріального русла застосовували дуплексне ультразвукове сканування та комп’ютерну томографію із контрастуванням судинного русла.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Основною причиною припинення функціонування анастомозу у віддаленому післяопераційному періоді був тромбоз, який діагностовано у 9 (9,68 %) пацієнтів. Найчастіше (3 випадки) його виявляли в період 4–5 місяців віддаленого післяопераційного періоду. В кінці другого місяця спостерігали один випадок тромбозу сегмента реконструкції. На межі 9 і 10 місяців післяопераційного періоду виявили два випадки тромбозу, а в період між 19 і 33 місяцем віддаленого післяопераційного періоду діагностовано 3 прояви тромбозу сегмента реконструкції.

Аналіз хірургічного лікування хронічної ішемії, що загрожує втраті нижньої кінцівки, у хворих із оклюзивно-стенотичним ураженням гомілкових артерій встановив, що при 36 місячному поопераційному спостереженні кумулятивна прохідність збережених кінцівок склала 92,63 %, прохідність реконструкції – 73,57 %. Подібне вдалось досягнути за рахунок диференційованого підходу до вибору локації дистального анастомозу автовенозного шунта (дистальний, проксимальний сегмент гомілкових артерій) і включення у кровотік стопних артерій та у більшості формування дистального анастомозу за типом “кінець у кінець”.