bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
29Si NMR Investigation of the Effect of Acetic and Oxalic Acids on Portland-Limestone Cement Hydration
Authors: Mazur Anton S. , Tolstoy Peter M. , Sotiriadis Konstantinos
Published: October 2022

The use of carboxylic acids in mix design alters the hydration process of cement, the resulting pore structure of the obtained cement paste, and, consequently, the mechanical properties of concrete. All these changes are directly related to the structure of the calcium silicate hydrate phase. In the present study, the effect of acetic acid and oxalic acid on the hydration of Portland-limestone cement was monitored using solid state 29Si NMR spectroscopy. The results showed that acetic acid facilitated alite and belite hydration, however, the formation of polymerized silicate chains, incorporating Q2p species, begun later than in pure cement paste. Oxalic acid accelerated the polymerization, but slowed down alite and belite hydration. Such behaviors may correspond to decreased porosity (acetic acid addition) and increased strength (oxalic acid addition). Both acids accelerated belite hydration, compared to the pure paste, likely due to an increased acidity of the pore solution. The findings provide structural information about C─S─H phase, to be considered for thaumasite sulfate attack investigations on Portland-limestone cement pastes containing carboxylic acids.
Potential of Crude Tall Oil Polyols for Rigid Polyurethane Foam Production and their Comparison with Tall Oil Fatty Acids Polyols
Authors: Kauliņa Elīza , Abolins Arnis , Fridrihsone Anda , Kirpluks Mikelis
Published: October 2022

Tall oils are a second-generation feedstock with perspective use in polyurethane materials. This study compared crude tall oil and tall oil fatty acid bio-polyols to determine whether crude tall oil could be used for polyurethane foam production making the production more cost-effective. Polyols were synthesized in a two-step process. At first, double bond epoxidation followed by oxirane ring-opening, and transesterification with multifunctional alcohols. The epoxidation process was studied with acid value and relative conversion to oxirane analysis. The obtained polyols were analyzed for acid value, hydroxyl value, viscosity, and with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. The results showed suitable hydroxyl values for almost all polyols, including crude tall oil polyols, but the high viscosity limits the use of most of the polyols.
Research Progress on Properties and Application of Titanium Alloy Oil Country Tubular Goods
Authors: Zhu Li Juan , Feng Chun , Zhang Kai , Zhang Fang Fang , Song Wen Wen , Wang Peng , Ji Nan
Published: October 2022

In recent years, with the rapid development of modern petroleum industry, some conventional oil country tubular goods (OCTGs) have been unable to meet the requirements of ultra-deep oil and gas drilling and production. Titanium alloy OCTGs showed broad application prospects due to its high specific strength, Low elastic modulus and strong CO2+H2S+Cl- corrosion resistance. However, large-scale applications of titanium alloy OCTGs were seldom reported, which is mainly attributed to the lack of anti-corrosive resistance and mechanical performance of titanium alloy OCTGs in the working conditions. In the present work, the research progress on properties and application of titanium alloy OCTGs were reviewed. The resistance to uniform corrosion, stress corrosion cracking, pit and crevice corrosion, mechanical properties of the titanium alloy OCTGs in air and downhole corrosion media were comprehensively discussed. Application status and prospect of titanium alloy OCTGs in oil and gas exploration were also summarized.
The Research Landscape of Biorefinery: A Scientometrics Viewpoint
Authors: Kokorevičs Arnis
Published: October 2022

The scientometrics study of the publications set devoted to biorefinery allows to characterize the research field, its dynamics, most relevant countries, institutions, and authors, cooperation, thematic structure, and publishing praxis. The permanent and fast increase of biorefinery publications started in 2001 and will be approximated by the power function, which allows predicting a further increase in the number of biorefinery publications. The leading producers of publications are European Union countries, European Economic Area countries and Switzerland together, the USA, PR China, Brazil, and India, but the output of 76 countries have been at least 10 publications since 1981. The proportion of internationally coauthored publications was 33.0% during 2018-2021, and six clusters of more close cooperating countries are recognized. The keywords cooccurrence analysis allows recognition of 4 subfields of research: biorefinery itself and biofuels, wood chemistry, algae and biotechnology, and alcohol production. The citation characteristics of biorefinery publications are substantially higher than the values of the corresponding research fields, and the top journals are preferred for the dissemination of research results.
Study of Catalysts for Suberinic Acid-Based Adhesive Polymerization
Authors: Makars Raimonds , Rizhikovs Janis , Paze Aigars
Published: October 2022

Birch outer bark is a byproduct accumulated from birch tree (Betula pendula Roth. and Betula pubescens Ehrh.) processing and contains up to 50 wt% suberin. Suberin is a biopolyester built mostly from α,ω-bifunctional fatty acids (suberinic acids) which after depolymerization together with lignocarbohydrate complex is a potential adhesive for obtaining particleboard composites. These composites can be made in hot-pressing process at around 225 °C temperature. The high hot-pressing temperature for suberinic acid-based adhesive is a disadvantage compared to hot-pressing temperatures for conventional resins such as urea-formaldehyde and phenol-formaldehyde (120–130 °C and 170–180 °C respectively). In this study we looked into possible ways to improve the properties (modulus of elasticity (MOE), bending strength (MOR) of suberinic acid-based particleboards by utilization of catalysts (additives) for SA-based adhesive polymerization, thus reducing hot-pressing temperature by potentially achieving the same mechanical properties as for the catalyst-untreated boards hot-pressed at higher temperature. The suitability of potential protonic acid, Lewis acid, as well as tin-based and basic catalyst was studied with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) by quantifying specific enthalpy of the exothermic peak with an onset temperature of ≈185 °C. Based on DSC results, six catalysts (mixtures) were chosen (sulfanilic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, Al2(SO4)3, SnCl2, SnCl2/p-toluenesulfonic acid, dibutyltin oxide) for further studies on the effects of mechanical properties of particleboards. Treatment with 5 wt% sulfanilic acid, 5 wt% p-toluenesulfonic acid (free suberinic acid basis) significantly improved both MOE and MOR values. 6 wt% Al2(SO4)3 significantly improved MOE value.
A Study on Waste Paper Reinforced Recycled Polypropylene Biocomposite
Authors: Jaunslavietis Jevgenijs , Ozolins Jurijs , Kalnins Martins , Shulga Galia , Neiberte Brigita , Verovkins Anrijs , Betkers Talrits
Published: October 2022

The growing global request to make green materials nowadays expresses in reducing environmental problems and obtaining biomaterials with high-performed properties. Aside from being carbon neutral, the use of biomass for obtaining green materials contributes to energy security and climate change mitigation. The aim of the work was to fabricate and study a recycled polypropylene-based composite filled with recycled waste paper obtained by the acid hydrolysis of de-inked newsprint. It has been found that, with increasing the content of the recycled paper microparticles in the bio-composite, its mechanical and wetting properties deteriorated. The presence of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene as a compatibilizer increased the homogeneity of the structure of the bio-composite, which improved its mechanical properties and decreased its ability to be wetted with water.
Microstructure Evolution and Performance of Laser-Remelted Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Hu Kang Kai , Wang Shi Cheng , Gao Wei , Yu Hong Ying , Sun Dong Bai
Published: October 2022

Herein, Ti-6Al-4V alloy was remelting by high-energy laser, the influence of laser energy density of mobile laser source on the evolution of solidification structure of Ti-6Al-4V alloy was studied, and the changes of relevant service performance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy after laser-remelting were explored. The results showed that there were four distinct regions: overheated zone, melting zone, heat-affected zone and substrate zone in Ti-6Al-4V alloy after laser remelting. The overheated zone and melting zone were dominated by primary α phase and secondary α phase, and a heat-affected zone was dominated by β phase. With the increase of laser energy density, the depth of molten pool and the range of melting zone in Ti-6Al-4V alloy increased, and the crystal phase distribution and grain size changed significantly. Laser-remelting Ti-6Al-4V alloy could still maintain a good passive state in the potentiodynamic polarization curve test, and the optimal laser power during remelting was 1200 W. This study proved that the crystal phase composition and grain size during the solidification process after laser-remelting were a key factor affecting the service performance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy.
Preliminary Study of Chemically Pretreated Densification of Juniper Wood for Use in Bone Implants
Authors: Andze Laura , Andzs Martins , Skute Marite , Nefjodov Vadim , Kapickis Martins , Tupciauskas Ramunas
Published: October 2022

Kraft cooking of juniper wood with NaOH/Na2S aqueous solution has been used in the study for partial delignification at the temperature of 165°C for different residence time (0-40 min) following by thermal compression for densification under a pressure of 5 MPa at 100°C for 24 hours. The densified and natural juniper wood samples were characterized by chemical composition and mechanical properties. The results show that the density of densified juniper wood was increased by 96-127% reaching the value of 1170 kg/m3 that is similar to conventional bone implants (1090 kg/m3). Modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity of densified juniper wood were increased by 85% and 621%, respectively, demonstrating a high potential of the material to be used as bone implants.
Constraint Handling and Flow Control in Stirred Tank Bioreactors with Magnetically Coupled Impellers
Authors: Buss Armands , Suleiko Arturs , Jekabsons Normunds , Vanags Juris , Loca Dagnija
Published: October 2022

In this study, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), applied to a non-Newtonian fluid, was developed to characterize gas-liquid interaction and mixing process in a 15 m3 (working volume) bioreactor. The bioreactor was equipped with four arrangements of standard Rushton, Pitch-blade and Scaba® impellers. Gas-liquid hydrodynamics was estimated based on CFD results. The chosen operating conditions were defined by the settings used for production of xanthan gum via fermentation route by Xanthomonas campestris. The mixing process was simulated by using the k-epsilon turbulence model, Multiple Reference Frame and Population Balance Model approaches. The simulation results have been compared and analyzed by isosurfaces, volume fractions, velocity graphs, torques and flow analysis calculations. Obtained results revealed that for the Pitched-Pitched-Pitched arrangement to avoid the constraint-imposed overload torque limitations impeller diameter size should be reduced by 10%. The use of Rushton-Rushton-Rushton impeller arrangement was discouraged for non-Newtonian pseudoplastic fluid mixing, whereas Pitched-Rushton-Scaba and Scaba-Rushton-Pitched impeller arrangements were both acceptable.
Effect of Modified Starch on Properties of Clay Composites
Authors: Trambitski Yahor , Kizinievič Olga , Kizinievič Viktor
Published: October 2022

This study is devoted to clay modification with a corn starch biopolymer. Authors given the assessment of three different starch thermal modifications (cold, hot and combined), as well as their effect on the clay composite. Described the principle of starch thermal modification and its structural transformations during heat treatment. Incorporation of the gelated starch into clay body contributes to the strength increasing of the clay composite up 18% to 126% for gelatinized and retrograded starch, respectively. Due to its covering properties, the gelled and retrograded starch hydrogel integrates well into the structure of the clay composite and has a positive effect on both its mechanical and physical properties. Also, the obtained clay composite is ecological due to its natural components.
Laser Cladding of Titanium Alloy Coating on Low Carbon Steel via Cu Interlayer
Authors: Gao Wei , Wang Shi Cheng , Si Jiajia , Hu Kang Kai , Yu Hong Ying , Sun Dong Bai
Published: October 2022

Preparation of titanium alloy coating on the low carbon steel surface is an effective way to ensure the service performance of steel in marine environment. In this work, the effect of Cu interlayer thickness on the microstructure and properties of the titanium alloy coating was systematically studied. The results showed that a thin Cu interlayer cannot inhibit the diffusion of iron, and the Fe-Ti intermetallic compound (IMC) layer at the coating/substrate interface weakens the bonding property of the coating. And iron compounds on the surface of the coating surface are negative for corrosion resistance. The thickening of Cu interlayer inhibits the diffusion of iron and increases the shear strength of the coating by 40%～60%. When the iron compound is not present on the coating surface, the optimal electrochemical properties of the titanium alloy coating were achieved. However, the excessive thickness of the Cu interlayer will accelerate the heat loss of the molten pool and lead to the fusion defect in the initial cladding stage. In this study, the optimum thickness range of Cu interlayer (290μm ~ 375μm) was obtained. When the interlayer was in this range, titanium alloy coatings with excellent comprehensive properties could be prepared.
Corrosion Properties of Castables with Various Calcium Oxide Content
Authors: Zemánek David , Nevřivová Lenka
Published: October 2022

This article is focused to investigate the corrosion resistance of LCC, ULCC and NCC. Castables microstructure is one of the key factors influencing corrosion resistance, therefore new fine matrix was designed. Potassium carbonate was used as a corrosive medium using static crucible method for tested castables. The corrosion mechanism was evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with EDX probe. The experimental results disclosed that corrosion resistance was improved with decreasing calcium oxide content of tested castables.
BOTULINUM TOXIN (BOTOX) PRACTICE PATTERN
Authors: Roy Pummy
Published: October 2022

Botulinum toxin has found numerous uses in medicine, with new indications being continually added. This agent has become the treatment of choice for a number of movement disorders, and has been advocated for many other conditions such as aesthetic reduction of facial wrinkles. Among ophthalmic plastic surgeons, botulinum toxins are often used as the first line treatment for facial dystonias. These toxins are also efficacious for the temporary management of various other conditions including keratopathies (through so called chemo-tarsorraphy), upper eyelid retraction, orbicularis overaction-induced lower eyelid entropion, gustatory epiphora, Frey's syndrome, and dynamic facial rhytids such as lateral canthal wrinkles (crow's feet), glabellar creases and horizontal forehead lines.

Four leading Oculoplasty Surgeons of India opine in our panel discussion on their preferred 'Practice Pattern' regarding use of Botox in Ophthalmology. Their immense clinical experience, outstanding body of work, deep insight in their art and unmatched academic credentials will provide an excellent learning experience for our readers. The Editorial Board of BJO is deeply indebted to them for their contribution, considering the trials and tribulations of the continuing COVID era.
LATERAL TARSAL STRIP (LTS) - A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO VARIED EYELID MALPOSITIONS.
Authors: Verma Malay
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE:

To study the functional and cosmetic outcome of lateral tarsal strip (LTS) procedure in correcting various eyelid disorders.

METHODS:

A retrospective analysis of 30 patients who underwent the procedure in a 2 year period from January 2018 - January 2020 was done.

RESULTS:

The average age was 50.15 years (range-19-80 years). Nineteen males and 11 females were followed up for 32 weeks (mean-9.58 weeks). The procedure was done for facial nerve palsy (14 patients), involutional entropion (6 patients), anophthalmic socket with lax lower lids (7 patients) and cicatricial ectropion (3 patients). Common clinical indications for treatment were lagophthalmos (14 patients), epiphora (9 patients) and unacceptable cosmetic appearance (7 patients). Common ancillary procedures were fornix forming sutures (6 patients), lid everting sutures (8 patients) and medial canthoplasty (4 patients). Functional and cosmetic success was achieved in 29 patients (96%) with total success in 27 patients and partial in 2 patients.

CONCLUSION

LTS is a very simple basic technique which can be used in correcting various eyelid disorders and renders excellent cosmetic and functional satisfaction to the patients.
CONJUNCTIVAL LIMBAL STEM CELL GRAFTING FOR PRIMARY AS WELL AS RECURRENT PTERYGIUM
Authors: Jalwa Anchal , Jha Alka
Published: October 2022

Purpose:-

To study the efficacy of conjunctival limbal stem cell grafting in patients with primary as well as recurrent pterygium; to evaluate the change in post-operative best corrected visual acuity; post-operative cosmetic appearance.

Methods:-

The study is prospective, interventional study carried out for a period of two years.70 eyes of 70 patients with primary(progressive) and recurrent pterygium were operated and limbal stem cell grafting was done. The patients were followed-up for a period of 12 months.

Result:-

During the follow-up period pterygium recurred in 4 patients (5.71%). Best corrected visual acuity of 37(52.85%) patients remained stable and in 33(47.14%)patients improved. The post-operative cosmesis was good in 61(87%) cases.

Conclusion:-

Conjunctival Limbal stem cell grafting is a safe and effective procedure in the management of pterygium, with low recurrence rate.
BILATERAL CHLOROMA PRESENTING AS ACUTE PROPTOSIS IN A CHILD
Authors: Singh Ranjit , Kumari Reena , Abrol Kawaljeet , Kumar Gaurav
Published: October 2022

It is granulocytic sarcoma with extramedullary myeloid involvement1. Mass lesions constitute 37% of all childhood orbital disorders. 4% of all mass lesions are of Lymphoreticular origin. Granulocytic sarcoma is an interesting form of myelogenous leukemia with predilection for forming tumour masses in the orbit. The mass lesion represents a tumour of leukemic cells. This tumour may manifest as much as 8 months before any haematologic signs appear. Prognosis with granulocytic sarcoma is related to the course of underlying disease. Poorer prognosis was related to transformation of myeloproliferative state to frank AML. Survival has been reported to range from 1 to 30 months after onset of ocular signs.
Tolosa–Hunt Syndrome and IgG4 Diseases in Neuro-Ophthalmology
Authors: Kapila Aastha Takkar , Ray Sucharita , Lal Vivek
Published: October 2022

Tolosa–Hunt syndrome (THS) remains a challenging diagnosis for many neurologists. Often believed to be a rare presentation, the classical presentation is known to involve cranial nerves and tissues surrounding the cavernous sinus. Traditionally, a diagnosis of THS is considered when all secondary conditions have been ruled out. Yet, newer findings have elaborated a complex pathogenetic process with some overlap from the IgG4 spectrum of disorders, with which it shares many phenotypic similarities. In this narrative review, we present an updated picture of the condition focusing on the latest developments in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and clinical management of these two conditions and use illustrative examples to highlight the salient features of this rare presentation.
Audit of Blood Bank Services with Emphasis on Loss of Workforce
Authors: Rathi Monika , Chauhan Neetu
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

The goal of blood bank audit is to continuously improve services to the patients by reducing rework, wastage, and inappropriate care. This can be done by establishing certain quality indicators. The rate of discarded blood and its components due to wastage, expiry, and transfusion-transmitted infection are one of such indicator.

Design:

Retrospective data on the number of whole blood, components prepared, and discarded were collected from the blood bank information system and analyzed.

Results:

During the study period, the total number of blood and components prepared were 3922. Out of which, a total of 226 units (5.76%) were discarded. In order to alleviate the shortage of blood, we should do intermittent auditing, quality monitoring, thorough evaluation and training of staff, proper management of the resources, and workforce.
Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Khan Javed , Wani Irfan Yousuf , Mufti Showkat , Asimi Ravouf
Published: October 2022

Background:

Till date, no data has been published about the use of intravenous (IV) thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) from Kashmir valley.

Objective:

The objective of the study is to assess and determine the pattern of use of IV thrombolysis for AIS in Kashmir, including its efficacy and the difficulties faced in providing this modality of treatment.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective cross-sectional observational study conducted from July 2016 to July 2018. All those patients who were admitted with a diagnosis of stroke and gave informed consent were included in this study.

Results:

A total of 2023 patients of stroke presented to our emergency department during the study period. Out of them, 1085 (53.6%) cases were found to have hemorrhagic stroke and 938 (46.3%) patients were having ischemic stroke. 9.2% patients of ischemic stroke presented within the window period of thrombolysis, but only 34 (3.6%) patients received IV alteplase. The mean onset to door time in those who received thrombolysis was 103.5 ± 51.17 min. Door-to-needle time (DNT) of ≤60 min was achieved in only 14 (41.2%) cases, whereas mean DNT was 82.7 ± 49.17. There was a statistically significant improvement in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale in those who received thrombolysis as compared to those who did not receive it.

Conclusion:

Hemorrhagic stroke occurs in majority of stroke patients (53.6%) in our community. 3.6% of ischemic stroke patients were thrombolyzed. Thrombolytic therapy presented positive outcomes in comparison to nonthrombolyzed patients which, however, was not statistically significant.
Expert Group Opinion for Diagnosis and Management of Fungal Infections in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients in South Asia
Authors: Soman Rajeev , Rege Sujata , Jeloka Tarun , Jhaveri Tulip A. , Bansal Shyam B.
Published: October 2022

Fungal infections, are common in solid organ transplant (SOT) récipients in South Asia. Invasive fungal infections (IFI) are the third-most common cause of infections in SOT recipients in South Asia after urinary tract infection and tuberculosis and are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. There are multiple factors, which lead to poor outcomes of these patients, i.e., lack of awareness, inadequate training of physicians, poor laboratory support to diagnose these infections, and sometimes nonavailability of appropriate antifungal agents to treat these infections. Among the IFI in India, invasive candidiasis is the most common followed by mucormycosis, invasive aspergillosis, and cryptococcosis. There is an increasing prevalence of azole resistance and multi-drug resistance among candida infections in South Asia. There are drug interactions of azoles with tacrolimus, cyclosporine, and everolimus and this must be kept in mind when treating various fungal infections. Another challenge is, how to screen and treat the donors and recipients before accepting them for transplant and subsequent management of transplant recipients. The most common endemic mycoses in the Asia-Pacific region are histoplasmosis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, talaromycosis caused by Talaromyces marneffei and sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix schenckii. The endemic fungal infections should be kept in the differential diagnosis of pyrexia of unknown origin in transplant recipients. Finally, the outcomes of these patients can be improved by increasing awareness among transplant physicians, better and wider availability of diagnostic facilities, and appropriate use of antifungal agents to treat these infections.
Surgical Site Infections in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Seth Abhinav , Sharma Ashish , Gadde Ashwinin B , Mandwar Milind , Bansal Shyam Bihari
Published: October 2022

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are defined as superficial infections, deep incisional infections, and organ/organ space infections that occur within 30 days of the surgical procedure or up to 90 days if a prosthetic implant has been used. Incidence of SSI is highest in recipients of small bowel transplant, followed by liver, pancreas, and kidney transplant. These are diagnosed by the presence of at least one of the following: purulent discharge from the wound, organism identified from the specimen obtained from the site with culture/nonculture-based methods, evidence of infection on gross/histopathological examination or on imaging, or a clinical diagnosis of SSI by a physician. The spectrum of organisms implicated in SSIs in solid organ transplant recipients is more diverse due to underlying end-stage organ failure, need for immunosuppression, prolonged hospitalization, colonization or active infection in the deceased organ donor, contamination during organ transportation/preservation. SSI in solid organ transplant can be prevented leading to hospital stay and cost of transplantation. Minimizing surgical operative time, sterile and appropriate surgical technique and antimicrobial prophylaxis, management of patient comorbidities as well as glucose and temperature regulation are important for prevention of SSI. This article discusses useful preventive strategies for preventing SSI such as preoperative bathing, use of appropriate preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis, surgical site and hand preparation, use of wound protectors, drapes and gowns, incisional wound irrigation, adequate nutritional support, and use of perioperative oxygenation.
Individualized Antigen Expression in Precursor T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: El-Gamal Rasha Rasha Abd-El-Rahman , Ismail Mona Ahmed , Mohamed Inas Abdelmoaty , Alfeky Mervat Abdalhameed
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND:

In T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), multi-parametric flow cytometry can serve to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) by using immature or aberrant antigens expression as well as the altered expression of T-cell antigens. The latter approach has been specifically introduced to overcome the absence of leukemia-associated antigens. However, there is no agreed-upon method for the use of T-cell antigens in T-ALL MRD testing.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

To compare the expression of classic T-cell antigens on T-lymphoblasts and T-lymphocytes to establish a protocol for their use in MRD analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Flow cytometric data of PB or BM samples from 63 adults with T-ALL were collected. We assessed the frequency and degree of brightness or dimness of each T-cell marker, in addition to studying the uniformity of the events scatter of a total of 287 follow-up BM samples from 50 patients.

RESULTS:

Significant differences in expression intensity of T-cell markers were found between T-lymphoblasts and T-lymphocytes; they were reasonably stable on blasts in follow up samples. This detailed study has nominated the conjoint use sCD3neg/dim and CD5dim/neg in the identification of residual cells, to be supported by other T-cell markers.

CONCLUSION:

The suggested gating sequence showed an acceptable level of accuracy in detecting residual leukemia, supporting their use in T-ALL MRD especially when other distinguishing markers might be absent in the diagnosis sample, or susceptible to be lost with induction therapy.
Drug Therapy in Patients with Severe Forms of Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Khaled Safaa A. A. , Ashry Israa E. M.
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND AND AIM:

Combining Hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea) therapy and L-Carnitine (HU+LC) was proved effective and tolerable in patients with thalassemia intermedia; however, its role in sickle cell anemia (SCA) was not investigated. This study aimed to assess various aspects of treatment with HU + LC in adult patients with severe forms of SCA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Ninety-one adult SCA patients were recruited, then distributed into four treatment groups: Group 1 – 37 patients treated with HU + LC; Group 2 – 16 patients treated with HU; Group 3 – 18 patients treated with LC; and Group 4 – 20 patients received supportive treatment only. Their baseline data were recorded then reassessed 8–12 weeks later. Their compliance was assessed subjectively.

RESULTS:

Patients were nearly matched as regards gender, age, baseline hematologic, and biochemical data. Compared to baseline, HU + LC treatment significantly increased hemoglobin and reduced reticulocytes, white blood cells, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Compared with other lines, HU + LC significantly reduced number of painful episodes, blood transfusions, and in hospital days per year. Adding LC to HU improved patient compliance, with mild side effects. Residence, side effects, baseline hemoglobin (Hb), and Hb F% affected patients' compliance. Both gender and age did not show any influence on response to treatment while side effects, compliance, baseline Hb, and LDH displayed a significant effect.

CONCLUSION:

Combining LC with HU for the treatment of adult SCA patients showed superior hematologic and clinical effectiveness. The response was more obvious in severe cases. However, health education about the combination is needed to improve patients' compliance and therapeutic responses.

Trial registration:

Clinical Trials.gov, NCT05081349. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05081349.
A Comparison between Eight Formulas for the Estimation of Plasma Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in the Saudi Arabian Population
Authors: Awan Zuhier Ahmed , Nuwaylati Dena Abdulbadea
Published: October 2022

CONTEXT:

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is the classical target in cardiovascular (CV) disease management and is usually estimated by Friedewald's formula. However, this formula may over- or underestimate LDL-C levels.

AIMS:

Our aim is to compare eight LDL-C-estimating formulas to the direct LDL-C measurement and validate their use in the Saudi population.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

This was a retrospective study.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS:

A blood sample of fasting 669 Saudi subjects was tested for lipid profiles in King Abdulaziz University Hospital Laboratory, from which directly measured LDL-C was obtained. LDL-C was then estimated from eight different formulas: Friedewald's, Cordova's, Hata's, Puavilai's, Chen's, Ahmadi's, Hattori's, and Vujovic's, which were all compared to direct LDL-C.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:

Mean and standard deviation, paired t-test, and Pearson's correlation were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS:

The mean differences between the direct LDL-C and Hattori and Chen's LDL-C were 0.03 and 0.08 mmol/L, respectively; P < 0.001, while the mean difference observed with Hata, Friedewald, Puavilai, and Vujovic's formulas were higher in comparison: 0.15, 0.24, 0.29, and 0.33 mmol/L, respectively, P < 0.001. Ahmadi and Cordova's LDL-C were estimated to be 0.60 and 0.64 mmol/L more than direct LDL-C levels, respectively, which showed the highest discordance with direct LDL-C, P < 0.001. At a triglyceride (TG) level of <4.5 mmol/L, Hattori also had the best agreement with direct LDL-C, with a mean difference of 0.04 mmol/L, and with TG >4.5 mmol/L, their mean difference was 0.21 mmol/L. All estimated LDL-C strongly correlated with direct LDL-C, except for Ahmadi's.

CONCLUSIONS:

Hattori's LDL-C had the best agreement with the direct LDL-C, and across all TG levels. However, we recommend directly measuring LDL-C in those with high CV risk.
Dysplastic Transformation of Plasma Cell Myeloma
Authors: Alsuhaibani Laila , Owaidah Tarek
Published: October 2022

Rare cases of plasma cell myeloma with morphological variants have been reported. Here we report a case of a plasma cell myeloma with a very unusual presentation diagnosed based on flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and cytogenetic studies.
Erratum to “On minimal laminations of the torus”
Authors: Bangert Victor
Published: October 2022

We acknowledge an error in Bangert [Ann. Inst. H. Poincaré Anal. Non Linéaire 6
(1989)] and provide references to correct versions.
Bibliotecas, centros de información y medios de comunicación en la sociedad de la información
Authors: Asensio Baca Gerardo , Cortés Montalvo Jorge
Published: October 2022

El reto en que se centra la propuesta de este escrito, es conducir la convergencia tecnológica y encontrar vertientes imaginativas para brindar acceso a la información y el conocimiento a sectores cada vez más amplios de la sociedad. La combinación de bibliotecas, centros de información y medios de comunicación como instrumento de difusión pueden ser elementos clave para reducir la brecha digital y el desnivel de conocimiento en los países con economías emergentes. La biblioteca ha sido tradicionalmente el establecimiento que sirve a la comunidad como fuente de acceso a información especializada, es también un elemento indispensable en los procesos de formación académica. Esta presta su servicio sobre la base de igualdad de acceso de todas las personas, independientemente de su edad, raza, sexo, religión, nacionalidad, idioma o condición social. Debe contar además con servicios específicos para quienes por una u otra razón no pueden valerse de los servicios y materiales ordinarios. Es factible considerar el papel de los medios como instaladores de patrones de comportamiento y de formas de entender la realidad social, cultural, económica, política y de todo orden, por lo tanto se considera que la educomunicación puede ser un elemento fundamental para fomentar el uso de las bibliotecas y el desarrollo de habilidades informativas.
Barriers and facilitators in the provision of palliative care in adult intensive care units: a scoping review
Authors: Effendy Christantie , Yodang Yodang , Amalia Sarah , Rochmawati Erna
Published: October 2022

The provision of palliative care in the intensive care unit (ICU) is increasing. While some scholars have suggested the goals of palliative care to not be aligned with the ICU, some evidence show benefits of the integration. This review aimed to explore and synthesize research that identified barriers and facilitators in the provision of palliative care in the ICU. This review utilized Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Scoping Review guidelines based on population, concept, and context. We searched for eligible studies in five electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, Science Direct, and Sage) and included studies on the provision of palliative care (concept) in the ICU (context) that were published in English between 2005–2021. We describe the provision of palliative care in terms of barriers and facilitators. We also describe the study design and context. A total of 14 papers was included. Several barriers and facilitators in providing palliative care in the ICU were identified and include lack of capabilities, family boundaries, practical issues, cultural differences. Facilitators of the provision of palliative care in an ICU include greater experience and supportive behaviors, i.e., collaborations between health care professionals. This scoping review demonstrates the breadth of barriers and facilitators of palliative care in the ICU. Hospital management can consider findings of the current review to better integrate palliative care in the ICU.
Cervical cancer prevention in Ghana
Authors: A. Koram Kwadwo
Published: October 2022

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer and is responsible for nearly 10% of all cancer deaths among women in the country.1 It is estimated that about 3000 deaths occur annually, and more tragically, many of these deaths can be prevented with a well-instituted preventive programme. Cervical cancer has been linked with infec-tion with some Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) species in more than 95% of cases. HPV is a family of more than 150 species, but few of them have been linked with cer-vical, vulval and vaginal cancer in women; penile cancer in men; and throat, mouth and anal cancer in both men and women – the so-called high-risk HPV types.
The effects of Ghana’s capitation policy on hospital Under-5 mortality in the Ashanti Region
Authors: K. Yambah John , Kuunibe Naasegnibe , A. Atinga Roger , Laar Kindness
Published: October 2022

Objective: The study estimated the capitation policy’s effect on the under-5 mortality (U5MR) rate in hospitals in Ashanti Region.Design: We used an interrupted time series design to estimate the impact from secondary data obtained from the DHIMS-2 database. Monthly under-5 deaths and the number of live births per month were extracted and entered into Stata 15.0 for analyses. The U5MR was calculated by dividing the number of live deaths by the number of live births for each of the 60 months of the study.Setting: Health facilities of the Ashanti Region with Data in the DHIMS 2.Intervention: the level and trend of U5MR for 31 months during the Capitation Policy implementation (January 2015 to July 2017) were compared with the level and trend 29 months after the withdrawal of the capitation policy (August 2017 to December 2019).Outcome measures: changes in trend or level of U5MR after the withdrawal of capitation.Main Results: During the capitation policy, monthly U5MR averaged 10.71 +/-2.71 per 1000 live births. It declined to 0.03 deaths per 1000 live births (p=0.65). After the policy withdrawal, the immediate (increase of 0.01 per 1000live births) and the trend (decline of 0.13 deaths per 1000 live births per month) were still not statistically sig-nificant.Conclusion: We conclude that the capitation policy did not appear to have influenced under-5 mortality in the Ashanti Region. The design of future healthcare payment models should target quality improvement to reduce un-der-5 mortalities.
Free radical scavenging potential of methanol extract of Ficus thonningii leave and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer (LCMS) profiling
Authors: Muhammad A.A. , Garba Y. , Bashir M. , Bello N.U. , Mohammed S.Y.
Published: October 2022

This study evaluated the in vitro and in vivo free radical scavenging potentials of methanol extract of Ficus thonningii leaf and its liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer (LCMS) profiling. The qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out and the results show the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins glycoside and triterpenes. Antioxidant activities were carried out in vitro and in vivo and the reducing power shows a value of 0.53 ± 0.007 with a significant (p < 0.05) difference compared to the control and Diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) value of 59.0 ± 0.007 with a significantly different (p < 0.05) compared to the control. However, the two assays are concentration-dependent. The in vivo analysis shows that lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities have values of 24.03± 8.04, 1.60± 0.03 and 0.003± 0.001 respectively. All the values are significantly different when compared to the control and are concentration-dependent. The LCMS results revealed the presence of some important metabolites; phenolic glycosides and quassin, which are potential molecules against free radicals. Therefore, Ficus thonningii leaf contains vital antioxidants and could be used in health management to boost the immune system or in drug development.
Prevalence of haemoparasites and influence on haemato-biochemical parameters of polo horses in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Alaba B.A. , Omoniwa D.O. , Olajide E.O. , Koleosho S.A. , Olaleye J.T.
Published: October 2022

Parasitic diseases, which can reside inside or outside the host, have a devastating impact on human and animal health worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Little is known about the current haemoparasitic status of polo horses in Ibadan, Nigeria. This study aims to find out the scope and extent of haemoparasites and their associated haematological and serum biochemical changes in polo horses in Ibadan, Nigeria. Blood samples were randomly collected from 52 horses from Ibadan polo stable. Haemoparasites identification, haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were evaluated according to standard procedures. The overall prevalence of haemoparasitic infection in the sampled horses was 13.5%. The haemoparasites found were Theileria equi (85.7%) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum (14.3%). The haematology result showed that infected horses presented a significant decrease (P<0.05) in PCV, WBC counts and significant elevation (P<0.05) of eosinophils. The serum biochemical values revealed that infected horses had significantly higher (P<0.05) levels of AST and creatinine kinase whereas the glucose level was significantly lower (P<0.05) when compared with the uninfected horses. To reduce the threat of haemoparasitic infection, it is recommended that vector control, as well as prophylactic therapy, be carried out in stables.
Elucidation of mechanisms of action of Wei-Sheng-Fang-Yi-Bao-Dan in the treatment of COVID-19 and depression using network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Han Haicheng , Fang Rui , Wang Dan , Yang Yong , Fu Xiaoqing , Rui Kangle
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To investigate the mechanisms of action of Wei-Sheng-Fang-Yi-Bao-Dan (WSFYBD) in the treatment of COVID-19 and depression using network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Methods: First, the bioactive components and target genes of WSFYBD were retrieved from TCMSP database. The relevant gene targets of depression and COVID-19 were obtained from databases. The core WSFYBD genes for treatment were separately obtained by determining gene intersection. Cytoscape 3.8.0 software was used to draw the visual interactive networks. STRING database was employed to construct protein-protein interaction networks, while Gene Ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analyses were used to determine the function and pathway of target genes via a Bioconductor/R. Finally, AutoDockTools software was employed for molecular docking.

Results: A total of 105 potential bio-active components and 35 target genes of WSFYBD for COVID-19 therapy were identified. Also, 1905 GO entries (p < 0.05) and 158 related signal pathways (p < 0.05) for COVID-19 were obtained. Similarly, 114 potential bio-active components of WSFYBD and 127 potential therapeutic targets of depression were identified. Moreover, 1948 GO entries (p < 0.05) and 177 related signal pathways for depression were retrieved (p < 0.05). Docking results showed the main bio-active components were closely bound to the core targets.

Conclusion: The mechanisms for treating COVID-19 show that WSFYBD directly acts on SARS-CoV-2 virus to prevent it from entering the host cell, or inhibits virus replication. Secondly, WSFYBD ameliorates depression by acting on key targets that control over-activated cytokines. Therefore, WSFYBD has potentials for the management of COVID-19 and depression.
Bioymifi suppresses Burkitt’s lymphoma cell line proliferation via cell cycle arrest and apoptosis
Authors: Terzi Hatice , Inanır Merve
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To find a new treatment alternative for Burkitt’s lymphoma, one of the B cell-derived non-Hodgkin's lymphomas that has an extremely aggressive growth profile with a high mortality rate.

Methods: Bioymifi (death receptor agonist) was administered at various doses to Human Burkitt's Lymphoma Raji cell lines, and cell proliferation was evaluated using XTT analysis. Apoptosis induction and cell cycle analysis were assessed using flow cytometry.

Results: Bioymifi exhibited good cytotoxicity in Raji cell lines with IC50 value of 29.5 μM. Furthermore, results of apoptosis induction and cell cycle analysis indicated that Bioymifi had potent anti-proliferative activity through sub-S cell cycle arrest and stimulation of apoptosis (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Bioymifi has anticancer potentials against Human Burkitt's Lymphoma Raji cell lines. Further pharmacological studies will be required to establish the mechanism of action.
Modelling the Impacts of Immigrants on COVID 19 Transmission Dynamics with Control Measures
Authors: Hugo Alfred K. , Mlay Goodluck M. , Kabigi Moses B.
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic began in Wuhan City in the Hubei province of China in December 2019. The disease spread quickly in many countries around the world due to mobility of people from one location to another. As a result, a COVID-19 mathematical model with the impacts on immigrants was proposed to study its transmission dynamics and possible control measures. The reproduction number was determined by using the next-generation technique and found to be 0.636, indicating that the transmission could be minimized in the community if all immigrants were effectively controlled. The Pontryagin's Maximum Principle was applied in analysing control strategies which are screening of immigrants, provision of public education to raise community awareness, and treatment of infected individuals. The simulated results revealed that a combination of public education, screening of all immigrants, and treatment of infected individuals plays a significant role in reducing COVID-19 transmission in the community.

Keywords: COVID-19; Immigrants; Optimal control theory;