bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulation of heat transfer performance of double-layer flat microchannels with different channel shapes
Authors: Yang Jingang. , Feng Zitong , Shella Noti , Su Zhili , Yuan Ling
Published: October 2023

Currently, the flow channel shape of double-layer flat microchannel heat sinks is mostly rectangular. It is still unknown, though, how different channel forms affect how well microchannels dissipate heat. This study used numerical simulation software COMSOL to simulate the double-layer flat microchannel heat dissipation structures of rectangular (MC-DLRC), staggered rectangular (MC-DLCFRC), circular (MC-DLCC), semi-circular (MC-DLHRC), and trapezoidal (MC-DLTC) and obtained the optimal microchannel flow structure. The results show that the overall performance of trapezoidal double-layer flat microchannels (MC-DLTC) has been significantly improved compared to rectangular double-layer flat microchannels (MC-DLCC). PEC is increased by 17.68-29.45%. Research was conducted on the bottom angle of trapezoidal microchannels, and the differences between vertical and staggered arrangement of microchannels were also studied.
Association of autoimmune diseases with the occurrence and 28-day mortality of sepsis: an observational and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Hui , Pan Xiaojun , Shen Xuan , Li Wan , Shang Weifeng , Wen Zhenliang , Zhang Sheng , Huang Sisi , Chen Limin , Chen Dechang , Liu Jiao
Published: October 2023

Background
Observational studies have indicated a potential association between autoimmune diseases and the occurrence of sepsis, with an increased risk of mortality among affected patients. However, whether a causal relationship exists between the two remains unknown.
Methods
We accessed genomic data from both the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit (MRC-IEU) and the FinnGen consortium, encompassing genome-wide association studies for 10 autoimmune disorders. Genome-wide association study data for sepsis and its 28-day mortality were obtained from MRC-IEU. We employed univariable, multivariable, and reverse Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to explore potential associations between autoimmune disorders and the occurrence of sepsis. Additionally, a two-step mediation MR analysis was performed to investigate indirect factors possibly influencing the relationship between the two. For 28-day mortality in sepsis, we first analyzed the relationship between autoimmune diseases and 28-day mortality in sepsis by MIMIC-IV database, and further verified the relationship by MR analysis.
Results
In univariable MR analysis, there appeared to be causal relationships between genetically predicted type 1 diabetes (OR = 1.036, 95% CI = 1.023–1.048, p = 9.130E-09), rheumatoid arthritis (OR = 1.077, 95% CI = 1.058–1.097, p = 1.00E-15) and sepsis, while a potential causal link was observed between celiac disease and sepsis (OR = 1.013, 95% CI = 1.002–1.024, p = 0.026). In a subsequent multivariable MR analysis, only rheumatoid arthritis was found to be independently associated with the risk of sepsis. Other autoimmune diseases were not found to have a causal association with sepsis. Furthermore, for all autoimmune diseases no causal link was established between autoimmune disorders and 28-day mortality from sepsis, aligning with the results obtained from the retrospective analysis of the MIMIC database. In reverse MR analysis, sepsis was suggested to potentially trigger the onset of psoriasis (OR = 1.084, 95% CI = 1.040–1.131, p = 1.488E-04), but this result requires further validation.
Conclusion
Apart from rheumatoid arthritis, there is no causal relationship between other autoimmune diseases and sepsis. At the genetic level, we did not find a causal relationship between autoimmune diseases and 28-day sepsis mortality, which is consistent with the results from the observational study from MIMIC-IV. Additionally, sepsis may increase the risk of developing psoriasis.
A case of corneal old sulfur mineral foreign body in both eyes
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Wu Dandan , Qin Xuewei
Published: October 2023

A 56-year-old male miner complained of right eye vision loss for 3 years and increased distension for 4 months. Admission examination: Best corrected visual acuity was no light in the right eye and 20/20 in the left eye. Anterior segment examination: A large number of spot-like grayish-brown mineral foreign bodies in the conjunctiva of the right corner of the eye, emulsified silicone oil floating in the anterior chamber, Corneal foreign bodies in the right eye were widely distributed in the upper cortex and the proelastic layer. There were fewer foreign bodies in the left cornea. Previous medical history, 20 years ago due to forging and burning sulphur mine explosion, resulting in a large number of ore foreign bodies in the conjunctiva of both eyes.
Evaluation of the bilateral dual plate internal fixation technique for rotationally dislocated tibial plateau fractures
Authors: Tang Zhong-jian , Zhang Ya-zhong , Lv Yong-xiang , Huang Shao-long , Zhou Chen-qiang , Zhu Zhe-xi , Wang Yun-qing , Zhu Zi-qiang , Wang Bin
Published: October 2023

Purpose
This study aims to explore the clinical efficacy of dual plate internal fixation through a bilateral approach for the treatment of rotationally dislocated tibial plateau fractures.
Methods
Clinical data of 20 patients (6 male, 14 female) with rotational dislocation type tibial flat fractures treated from January 2020 to April 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Out of all fractures, 12 occurred on the right side, and 8 on the left side. The average age of the patients was 51.9 ± 13.11 years. All patients underwent surgical treatment using the bilateral approach with dual plate internal fixation, and the related surgical indicators were recorded. After surgery, data such as fracture line disappearance time (in months), tibial plateau varus angle (TPA), tibial plateau posterior angle (PA), joint range of motion (ROM), New York Hospital for Special Surgery Hospital (HSS) knee joint function score, Rasmussen score, visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, and Fugl–Meyer motor function assessment (FMA) score were recorded, along with the incidence of postoperative complications.
Results
All patients were followed up for 13.55 ± 9.75 months. The average time for the disappearance of the patients’ fracture line was 3.75 ± 0.91 months. Comparisons of TPA, PA, ROM, HSS score, Rasmussen score, and VAS score at immediately and 3 month after surgery, as well as 6 and 12 months after surgery. The research results revealed that there is a statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) between 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery and immediately after surgery. The FMA score indicated an excellent and good rate of 80% at 12 months after surgery. Postoperative complications included superficial skin infection at the incision in 2 (10.0%) cases, delayed union of fractures in 2 (10%) cases, limited mobility in 1 (5.0%) case, knee instability in 2 (10.0%) cases, and traumatic arthritis in 4 (20%) cases.
Conclusion
The bilateral approach involving dual plate internal fixation was used to treat rotational dislocation tibial plateau fractures. This technique has the advantages of fast intraoperative reduction, high stability of internal fixation, fewer postoperative complications, and good recovery of knee joint function, proving its potential as an effective and safe treatment method.
Microscopic polyangiitis associated with myelodysplastic syndrome mimicking infectious pneumonia, with complications including complete atrioventricular block and fatal intra-alveolar hemorrhage.
Authors: Sudria Axel , Hyvernat Herve , Morand Lucas , Jozwiak Mathieu , Dellamonica Jean
Published: October 2023

The association between ANCA-associated vasculitis and hematologic malignancy has been previously described and remains a rare phenomenon, albeit potentially underdiagnosed. We report the case of an 81-year-old patient with myelodysplastic syndrome who was managed for an infectious-appearing pneumonia, which subsequently complicated into complete heart block and severe acute respiratory distress syndrome with a fatal outcome. The final diagnosis is severe hemorrhagic alveolitis associated with ANCA-associated vasculitis meeting the criteria for microscopic polyangiitis. This article provides an opportunity to discuss the association between ANCA-associated vasculitis and hematologic malignancies and the adverse prognosis associated with it.
BrachySound: Machine Learning Based Assessment of Respiratory Sounds in Dogs
Authors: Oren Ariel , Turkcu Jana D. , Meller Sebastian , Lazebnik Teddy , Wiegel Pia , Mach Rebekka , Volk Holger A. , Zamansky Anna
Published: October 2023

The early and accurate diagnosis of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) in dogs is pivotal for effective treatment and enhanced canine well-being. Owners often do underestimate the severity of BOAS in their dogs. In addition, traditional diagnostic methods, which include pharyngolaryngeal auscultation, are often compromised by subjectivity, are time-intensive and depend on the veterinary surgeon’s experience. Hence, new fast, reliable assessment methods for BOAS are required. The aim of the current study was to use machine learning techniques to bridge this scientific gap. In this study, machine learning models were employed to objectively analyze 366 audio samples from 69 Pugs and 79 other brachycephalic breeds, recorded with an electronic stethoscope during a 15-minute standardized exercise test. In classifying the BOAS test results as to whether the dog is affected or not, our models achieved a peak accuracy of 0.85, using subsets from the Pugs dataset. For predictions of the BOAS results from recordings at rest in Pugs and various brachycephalic breeds, accuracies of 0.68 and 0.65 were observed, respectively. Notably, the detection of laryngeal sounds achieved an F1 score of 0.80. These results highlight the potential of machine learning models to significantly streamline the examination process, offering a more objective assessment than traditional methods. This research indicates a turning point towards a data-driven, objective, and efficient approach in canine health assessment, fostering standardized and objective BOAS diagnostics.
Effects of aeration on hydraulic and anti-clogging performance of subsurface drip irrigation emitters
Authors: Wang Yue , liu Ningning , Zhang Jihong , Jin Yanjing , Zhang Jinzhu , Wang Zhenhua
Published: October 2023

The hydraulic and anti-clogging performance of drip irrigation emitters are crucial factors that determine irrigation quality. Subsurface aerated drip irrigation (SADI) has been shown to enhance plant growth and yield, but further investigation is needed to understand its effects on the hydraulic and anti-clogging performance of drip emitters. Thus, based on hydraulic performance tests, the flow rate of emitters was tested under various design nominal discharges (1.0, 1.35, 2.3 L·h-1), working heads (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 m), aeration amounts (0, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9 L·min-1) and soil depths (0, 15 cm). In addition, the influence of nominal discharges (ND), working heads (WH), aeration amounts (AA), and soil depths (SD) on the flow rate as well as the flow index were analyzed. Moreover, the relative discharge of emitters was tested by short-term clogging tests, and the influence of aeration on the anti-clogging performance of the emitter was analyzed. A three-phase flow simulation method, based on one-phase flow and two-phase flow, was employed to investigate the variations in velocity, gas concentration distribution, particle passing rate, and concentration distribution of particles in the flow channel after aeration. The results demonstrate that the effects of ND, WH, AA and SD on the flow rate of the emitter were extremely significant(P < 0.01). The influence of ND and SD on the flow index was significant (P < 0.05), while the influence of AA on the flow index was not significant(P > 0.05). In addition, the negative impact of subsurface outflow on the emitter under high-pressure conditions (10, 12 m) was significantly less than that under low-pressure conditions (2, 4 m). After aeration, the number of muddy water irrigation times increased, and the growth rates of high-speed mainstream areas after E1, E2, and E3 are 3%-10%, 20%-46%, and 7%-17%, respectively. The particle passing rates of E1, E2 and E3 increased by 10%, 9% and 4%, respectively. This study can provide a research basis for promoting and using subsurface aerated irrigation.
Polydopamine/redox graphene oxide/Fe3+ composite fabrics with excellent photothermal properties for continuous desalination
Authors: Ding Yan , Yuan Qi , Ma Ming-Guo , Cao Da-Qi
Published: October 2023

The shortage of fresh water is one of the great challenges facing the world nowadays. The photothermal water purification has attracted great attention due to its low energy consumption, environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness. Herein, the cotton towel/polydopamine/redox graphene oxide/Fe3+ (CT-PDA/rGO-Fe3+) composite fabric was fabricated via using PDA-modified waste Cotton towel as the base, and evenly loading rGO and Fe3+ by soaking and constant temperature oscillation. At the irradiation intensity of 1 KW/m2, the surface temperature of the composite fabric could rise to 61°C within 1 min. After 20 cycles, the saturation temperature could be maintained. These results showed that the composite fabric has good photothermal properties and stability. Meanwhile, the composite fabric showed high water purification efficiency (~ 1.201 kg/m2·h). This solar desalination simulator prepared on the basis of waste cotton towel has a simple preparation process and good solar steam efficiency, which shows great potential in the field of desalination.
T cell dysfunction in ARDS based on miRNA and mRNA integration analysis
Authors: Mitsuyama Yumi , Matsumoto Hisatake , Togami Yuki , Oda Sayaka , Murtatsu Arisa , Yoshimura Jumpei , Onishi Shinya , Ito Hiroshi , Ogura Hiroshi , Okuzaki Daisuke , Oda Jun
Published: October 2023

Background
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is respiratory failure that commonly occurs in critically ill patients, and the molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis and severity are poorly understood. We evaluated mRNA and miRNA in patients with ARDS and elucidated the pathogenesis of ARDS after performing mRNA and miRNA integration analysis.
Methods
In this single-center, prospective, observational clinical study of patients with ARDS, peripheral blood of each patient was collected within 24 hours of admission. Sequencing of mRNA and miRNA was performed using whole blood from the ARDS patients and healthy donors.
Results
Thirty-four ARDS patients were compared with 15 healthy donors. Compared with the healthy donors, 1233 mRNAs and 6 miRNAs were upregulated and 1580 mRNAs and 13 miRNAs were downregulated in the ARDS patients. For both mRNA and miRNA-targeted mRNA, canonical pathway analysis showed that the PD-1 and PD-L1 cancer immunotherapy pathway was most activated and the Th2 pathway was most suppressed. For mRNA, the Th1 pathway was most suppressed. miR-149-3p and several miRNAs were identified as upstream regulators.
Conclusion
miRNAs regulated the PD-1 and PD-L1 cancer immunotherapy pathway and Th2 pathway through miRNA interference action of mRNA. Integrated analysis of mRNAs and miRNAs showed that T cells were dysfunctional in ARDS patients.
Tuning Drafting Zone Parameters for Polyester Yarn within a Ring Spinning System: Modeling and Optimization
Authors: Savadroodbari Habib Amiri , Razbin Milad , Hasani Mohsen Reza , Johari Majid Safar
Published: October 2023

Most textile products incorporate yarn as a fundamental element in the production process. Among various yarn manufacturing methods, the ring spinning system stands out as a crucially employed technology due to its advantages including yarn quality, evenness, low hairiness, and ease of handling. The parameters of drafting zone in this technology have a great impact on the quality of yarns. Typically, tuning this drafting zone parameters is time-consuming and costly through trial and error method. This study introduces an algorithmic procedure based on response surface methodology (RSM), experimental modeling, and multi-objective optimization to reduce unevenness percentage (U%) and imperfection index (IPI). Input parameters, including cots hardness of front and back top rollers, spacer size, and break draft, are optimized. Results indicate superior prediction performance of the artificial neural network (ANN) (average vaule of TGF = 1.9996) compared to RSM (average value of TGF = 1.8668). Consequently, ANN is selected for optimization. Furthermore, coupling the genetic algorithm with two ANN-based models reduced IPI from 39 to 33.67 and a reduction from 9.73–9.67% occurred in terms of U%. The final setting of Input parameters were cots hardness of front roller of 70 shore and cots hardness of back roller of 76 shore, spacer size 2.8 mm, and break draft of 1.26. This method efficiently optimizes the drafting zone parameter, enhancing yarn quality.
Extrusion-based Additive Manufacturing of Three-dimensional MoSe2-nanosheet-coated TiO2 Hetero-structures for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Oh Heungseok , Charles Hazina , Im Taehyeob , Khan Haritham , Lee Sunyong
Published: October 2023

Extrusion-based additive manufacturing (EAM) provides design freedom and facilitates the production of complicated structures that are often challenging to produce using conventional processing methods. In this study, a TiO2 feedstock was developed by mixing TiO2 with a binder and optimized for extrusion. To maximize the reaction efficiency, we fabricated three-dimensional (3D) structures for photocatalytic CO2 reduction based on the designed model. To further enhance the photocatalytic CO2 reduction efficiency, we introduced a heterostructure by hydrothermally synthesizing MoSe2, a transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD), on the TiO2 surface. MoSe2, which is known for its affordability in fabrication heterostructures, high electrical conductivity, expanded light absorption range, and reduced bandgap, has the potential to enhance photocatalytic efficiency. The effectiveness of various TiO2–MoSe2 3D structural designs for CO2 reduction was evaluated. A custom-made stainless-steel reactor was used for CO2 reduction under UV-vis irradiation, followed by gas chromatography analysis of the produced gases. The optimized structure exhibited remarkable CO2 selectivity, reaching approximately 82%, demonstrating the feasibility of using EAM for fabricating 3D structures for photocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Generation of iPSC lines (KAIMRCi003A, KAIMRCi003B) from a Saudi patient with Dravet Syndrome carrying homozygous mutation in the CPLX1 gene and heterozygous mutation in SCN9A
Authors: Alowaysi Maryam , Al-Shehri Mohammad , Badkok Amani , ATTAS HANOUF , Aboalola Doaa , Baadhaim Moayad , Alzahrani Hajar , Daghestani Mustafa , Zia Asima , Al-Ghamdi Khalid , Al-Ghamdi Asayil , Zakri Samer , AOUABDI SIHEM , Tegner Jesper , Alsayegh Khaled
Published: October 2023

The most prevalent form of epileptic encephalopathy is Dravet Syndrome (DRVT), which is triggered by the pathogenic variant SCN1A in 80% of cases. iPSCs with different SCN1A mutations have been constructed by several groups to model DRVT syndrome. However, no studies involving DRVT-iPSCs with rare genetic variants have been conducted. Here, we established two DRVT-iPSC lines harboring a homozygous mutation in the CPLX1 gene and heterozygous mutation in SCN9A gene. Therefore, the derivation of these iPSC lines provides a unique cellular platform to dissect the molecular mechanisms underlying the cellular dysfunctions consequent to CPLX1 and SCN9A mutations.
Oral Health Outcomes In An HIV Cohort With Comorbidities- Implementation Roadmap For A Longitudinal Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Omolehinwa Temitope , Akintoye Sunday O. , Gabinskiy Marta , Re Vincent Lo , Mupparapu Mel , Urbina Rosa , Schaubel Douglas E. , Corby Patricia
Published: October 2023

Long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) perpetually suppresses HIV load and has dramatically altered the prognosis of HIV infection, such that HIV is now regarded as a chronic disease. Side effects of ART in Patients With HIV (PWH), has introduced new challenges including “metabolic” (systemic) and oral complications. Furthermore, inflammation persists despite great viral load suppression and normal levels of CD4+ cell count.
The impact of ART on the spectrum of oral diseases among PWH is often overlooked relative to other systemic complications. There is paucity of data on oral complications associated with ART use in PWH. This is in part due to limited prospective longitudinal studies designed to better understand the range of oral abnormalities observed in PWH on ART. Our group designed and implemented a prospective observational longitudinal study to address this gap.
We present a procedural roadmap that could be modelled to assess the extent and progression of oral diseases associated with ART in PWH. We described here the processes associated with subject recruitment and retention, study visit planning, oral health assessments, bio-specimen collection and preprocessing procedures, and data management. We also highlighted the rigors and challenges associated with participant recruitment and retention.
Sleep Related Breathing Disorders in Infants with Spina Bifida Repaired Prenatally and Postnatally
Authors: Stark Katherine G. , Smith Kathryn A. , Wang Rachel Y. , Keens Thomas G. , Speybroeck Alexander , Chmait Ramen H. , Ward Sally L. Davidson , Chu Jason , Perez Iris A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Recent advances in prenatal repair of myelomeningocele (MMC) have improved outcomes involving different organ systems. There is limited data on respiratory outcomes following prenatal surgical repair. We hypothesize there is no difference in respiratory outcomes between spina bifida (SB) patients who have undergone prenatal versus postnatal repair.
Methods: Retrospective study of 46 infants <1 year with SB seen at Children's Hospital Los Angeles from 2004-2022. Demographic data, timing of closure, neonatal course, Chiari II malformation (CIIM), ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS), polysomnography (PSG) results, and need for supplemental oxygen were collected. Unpaired t test and Chi-square Test were used to compare results between groups.
Results: 31/46 had prenatal repair of MMC; average age at repair was 27 weeks post-conception (PCA). Average age at postnatal repair was 37 PCA. There was no difference in age at PSG. There was no difference in CIIM presence (p=0.61). 60% of patients with postnatal repair and 23% in the prenatal group underwent VPS placement (p=0.01).
There was no difference in PSG findings between the two groups: CAI (p=0.11), OAHI (p=0.64), average SpO2 baseline (p=0.91), average SpO2 nadir (p=0.17), average PETCO2 baseline (p=0.87), average PETCO2 maximum (p=0.54). There were no significant differences in the proportion of patients on supplemental O2 (p=0.25), CSA or OSA between groups.
Conclusions: Patients with SB who’ve undergone closure of defect have persistent central apneas, obstructive apneas, and significant hypoxemia. There were no differences in the frequency or severity of sleep-disordered breathing in those with prenatal repair versus postnatal repair.
Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Ergasilus anchoratus and phylogeny of Copepoda
Authors: Hua Cong-jie , Huang Yan , Li Hui-quan , Feng Jin-mei , Qiao Jia-lu , Hu Song , Liu Wei , Shu Xi-ji
Published: October 2023

The mitochondrial (mt) genome can provide data for phylogenetic analyses and evolutionary biology. Herein, we sequenced and annotated the complete mt genome of Ergasilus anchoratus. This mt genome was 13852 bp long and comprised 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNAs and 2 rRNAs. All PCGs used the standard ATN start codons and complete TAA/TAG termination codons. A majority of tRNA genes exhibited standard cloverleaf secondary structures, with the exception of one tRNA that lacked the TψC arm (trnC), and three tRNAs that lacked the DHU arm (trnR, trnS1 and trnS2). Phylogenetic analyses conducted using Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) methods both supported Ergasilidae as a monophyletic family forming a sister group to Lernaea cyprinacea and Paracyclopina nana. It also supported the monophyly of orders Calanoida, Cyclopoida, Harpacticoida, and Siphonostomatoida; and the monophyly of families Harpacticidae, Ergasilidae, Diaptomidae, and Calanidae. The gene orders of E. anchoratus and Sinergasilus undulatus were identical, which represents the first instance of two identical gene orders in copepods. More mt genomes are needed to better understand the phylogenetic relationships within Copepada in the future.
Designing and Validation an Experimental Protocol to Induce Airway Narrowing in Older Adults with and without Asthma
Authors: Chavoshian Shaghayegh , Cao Xiaoshu , Thommandram Anirudh , Stanbrook Matthew B , Tarlo Susan M , Fossat Yan , Yadollahi Azadeh
Published: October 2023

Background: Persons with asthma may experience excessive airway narrowing due to exercise or exposure to cold air, worsening their daily functionality. Exercise has several benefits for asthma control, but it may induce airway narrowing in some persons with asthma. When combined with cold temperatures, it introduces another layer of challenges. Therefore, managing this interaction is crucial to increase the quality of life in individuals with asthma. The purpose of this study was to develop a reliable experimental protocol to assess the effects of exercise and cold air on airway narrowing in adults with asthma, in a controlled and safe environment.
Methods: This study was a randomized cross-over study in adults with and without asthma. Participants underwent a protocol involving a 10-minute seated rest, followed by a 10-minute cycling on a stationary bike in different temperatures of 0, 10, or 20°C. The sequence of room temperatures was randomized and there was a 30-minute interval for recovery between each temperature transition. In each temperature, to measure lung function and respiratory symptoms, oscillometry and a questionnaire were used at 0 minute of sitting (baseline), after 10 minutes of sitting or before starting biking (pre-exercise), and after 10 minutes of biking (post-exercise). At each room temperature, the changes in airway mechanics and asthma symptoms among baseline, pre-exercise, and post-exercise were compared with one-way repeated measures ANOVA or Friedman Rank Test.
Results: A total of 23 persons with asthma (11 females, age: 56.3 ± 10.9 years, BMI: 27.4 ± 5.7 kg/m2) and 6 healthy subjects (3 females, age: 61.8 ± 9.1 years, BMI: 28.5 ± 3.1 kg/m2) were enrolled in the study. Cold temperature of 0°C induced airway narrowing in those with and without asthma after 10 and 20 minutes respectively. Exercise intervention had significant changes in airway narrowing in participants with asthma in the range of 10-20°C. Our results showed that in asthma, changes in subjective respiratory symptoms were due to both cold temperatures of 0 and 10°C and exercise in the 0-20°C range. Respiratory symptoms were not noticed among the healthy participants.
Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings suggest that exposure to cold temperatures of 0°C could serve as a reliable method in the experimental protocol for inducing airway narrowing in asthma. The impact of exercise on airway narrowing was more variable among participants. Understanding these triggers in the experimental protocol is essential for the successful management of asthma in future studies.
Establishment and Validation of Early Prediction Model for Hypertriglyceridemic Severe Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Yi Shuanglian , Zeng Huiling , Lin Xunting , Deng Yifang , Lin Yufen , Xie Shanshan , Si Lijuan , Liu Yunpeng
Published: October 2023

Background
The prevalence of hypertriglyceridaemia-induced acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) is increasing due to improvements in living standards and dietary changes. However, at present, there is no clinical multifactor scoring system specific to HTG-AP. This study aimed to screen the predictors of hypertriglyceridemia severe acute pancreatitis (HTG-SAP) and combined several indicators to establish and verify a visual model for the early prediction of HTG-SAP.
Methods
The clinical data of 266 patients with HTG-SAP were analysed. Patients were classified into severe (n = 42) and non-severe (n = 224) groups according to the Atlanta classification criteria. Several statistical analyses, including one-way analysis, least absolute shrinkage with selection operator (LASSO) regression model and binary logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the data.
Result
The univariate analysis found that several factors showed no statistically significant differences, including number of episodes of pancreatitis, abdominal pain score and several blood diagnostic markers, such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), serum calcium (Ca2+), C-reactive protein (CRP) and the incidence of pleural effusion, between the two groups (P < 0.000). LASSO regression analysis identified six candidate predictors: CRP, LDH, Ca2+, procalcitonin (PCT), ascites and Balthazar computed tomography (CT) grade. Binary logistic regression multivariate analysis showed that CRP, LDH, Ca2+, and ascites were independent predictors of HTG-SAP. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.886, 0.893, 0.872, and 0.850, respectively. The AUC of the newly established HTG-SAP model was 0.960 (95% confidence interval: 0.936–0.983), which was higher than that of the bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis, modified CT severity index, Ranson score and Japanese severity score (JSS) CT grade (AUC: 0.794, 0.796, 0.894 and 0.764, respectively). The differences were statistically significant (P < 0.01), except for the JSS prognostic indicators (P = 0.130). The Hosmer–Lemeshow test showed that the predictive results of the model were highly consistent with the actual situation (P > 0.05). The decision curve analysis plot suggested that clinical intervention can benefit patients when the model predicts that they are at risk for developing HTG-SAP.
Conclusions
CRP, LDH, Ca2+ and ascites are independent predictors of HTG-SAP. The prediction model constructed based on these indicators has a high accuracy, sensitivity, consistency and practicability in predicting HTG-SAP.
Comparative Analysis of Short-term Efficacy between Robot- assisted Retrograde Drilling and Arthroscopic Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Authors: Xiaoqiang Chen , Jianquan Liu , Tianyu Wang , Zhe Zhao , Yongsheng Li , Yu Cheng Xiang , Wencui Li
Published: October 2023

Background
Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OCLT) are lesions involving the articular cartilage and subchondral bone of the talus, most of which are associated with chronic micro-injuries following ankle trauma.micro-fractures, cartilage or bone transplantation assisted by ankle arthroscopy and the use of surgical robots has emerged for the treatment of OCLT is the pursuit of doctors and patients. A novel surgical procedure is introduced from the perspective of surgical robots involved in the minimally-invasive treatment of early OCLT to reach the persuit.
Objective
To investigate the short-term clinical efficacy of robot-assisted retrograde drilling and arthroscopic microfracture for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OCLT).
Methods
A total of 6 OCLT patients who were treated with robot navigation-assisted retrograde drilling and 10 OCLT patients who were treated with arthroscopic microfracture between October 2020 and October 2021 were analyzed. There were 11 males and five females, with a mean age of 36 years. The patients were followed up for 6 to 12 months to compare the changes in the OCLT lesion area by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), visual analogue scale/score (VAS) and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score (AOFAS) before and after surgery.
Results
All 16 patients were followed up for an average of 8 months, and no complications occurred.Only one patient suffered discomfort involving transient postoperative pain in the operative area, but did not experience long-term numbness or chronic pain. Postoperative MRI revealed that none of the patients had severe signs of osteonecrosis, osteolysis or cystic changes of the talus, with lesion areas smaller than those before surgery. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). The patients in the experimental group showed a more significant improvement in the last 3 months than in the first 3 months of the follow-up period. At the last follow-up, the VAS score was 3 points in the experimental group and 2.2 points in the control group, and the AOFAS score was 88.6 points in the experimental group and 88 points in the control group, all of which were significantly higher than those before operation, and the differences were statistically significant, but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups.
Conclusion
Both robot navigation-assisted retrograde drilling and arthroscopic microfracture for bone marrow stimulation (BMS) to treat OCLT in all patients obtained a satisfied result. In addition, the the experimental group can significantly reduced the operative time and showed fewer complications. Consequently, robot navigation-assisted retrograde drilling for BMS was a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of OCLT.
Psychometric Properties of an Arabic Translation of the Short Entrapment Scale in a Non- Clinical Sample of Young Adults
Authors: Chabbouh Alfred , Charro Elie , Tekle Georges-Alain Al , Soufia Michel , Hallit Souheil
Published: October 2023

Background: Entrapment is defined as the feeling of wanting to leave an unbearable situation but believing that there are no options or ways to do so (i.e. inability to escape an unbearable situation). In clinical practice, it is crucial to regularly incorporate entrapment beliefs into the risk assessments and therapeutic interventions as entrapment beliefs are a significant risk factor for suicidal ideations. Therefore, in the current study, we aim to evaluate the psychometric properties of a translated Arabic version of the Entrapment Scale Short Form (E-SF).
Methods: 389 Lebanese citizens residing in the country at the time were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The mean age of participants were 23.03 years (SD = 2.93), 69.4% being women. To examine the factor structure of the entrapment scale, we used an exploratory-to-confirmatory factor analysis (EFA-to-CFA) strategy.
Results: EFA and CFA results indicated that fit of the unidimensional model of Arabic Entrapment Scale (A-ES) was generally acceptable. Composite reliability of scores was adequate in the total sample (ω = .87). All indices suggested that configural, metric, and scalar invariance was supported across gender. Entrapment was positively and significantly correlated with suicidal ideation, alcohol use disorder, psychological distress and orthorexia nervosa, suggesting convergent and divergent validity.
Conclusion: The A-ES was found to be a valid and reliable tool to assess the degree of entrapment in Lebanese young adults. The A-ES will assist healthcare professionals in the region in the prevention of suicide as the tool is tailored to the specific sociocultural context, which would enhance entrapment detection.
Resistance to Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agents in Children Receiving Renal Replacement Theraphy
Authors: KAYA MEHTAP , CICEK NESLIHAN , GUVEN SERCIN , ALPAY HARIKA , GOKCE IBRAHIM
Published: October 2023

Background
The incidence of anemia increases with the stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Erythropoietin (EPO) deficiency is the common cause of anemia in CKD. Erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) are the mainstay of treatment. Sometimes, treatment is challenging due to erythropoietin resistance (ER), which can be assessed using the erythropoietin resistance index (ERI). In this study, our aim was to investigate the factors contributing to high ERI levels in children receiving renal replacement therapy (RRT).
Materials and Methods
Thirty-three children receiving hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD) for at least three months were included in this study. Demographic characteristics, laboratory parameters, blood pressure findings, and medication records were documented. The Erythropoietin Resistance Index was calculated by determining the ratio of the weekly EPO dosage adjusted for body weight to the hemoglobin (Hb) level.
Results
The mean ERI value was 15.7 IU/kg/w/g/dL. There was a significant association between serum phosphorus levels and ERI (p = 0.016, r = 0.41). Mean parathormone (PTH) level was also higher in the high ERI group (599 ± 351 vs 392 ± 320 pg/ml, p: 0.088). An association, close to the statistical significance, was present between ERI and hypertension (p = 0.06, r = 0.32).
Conclusion
Our study demonstrated a potential relationship between hyperphosphatemia, possibly secondary hyperparathyroidism, and ERI in children receiving RRT. Additionally, the association of hypertension and ERI should not be ignored.
Expression and Prognostic Value of MCM2 in type B thymomas
Authors: Du Xin , Cui Jian , Yu Xin-tao , Cao Ding-fang , Zhang Ying , Yu Lei , Li Shan-qing
Published: October 2023

Background: Thymic epithelial tumor (TET) is the most common type of mediastinal malignancies. Currently, there is no reliable biomarker for predicting the prognosis of patients with TET. The purpose of the study was to find out a target gene, which may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker for TET patients.
Methods: By mRNA microarray analysis of 30 specimens of fresh tumor tissue and peritumoral thymic tissue, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out. The hub genes were identified from DEGs using protein-protein interaction (PPI). Survival analysis and enrichment analysis were performed to selected the target gene from hub genes. By establishing the validated cohort, we explored the association of the target gene expression with prognosis and clinicopathological characteristics.
Results: The 734 DEGs were differentially expressed between thymoma and peritumoral thymic tissue. The 9 hub genes were identified from DEGs, in which minichromosome maintenance proteins 2 (MCM2) was selected as the target gene. In the validated cohort, the expression of MCM2 in thymic epithelial cells was significantly associated with a prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) (HR=0.17; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.05-0.54; p=0.003), and it was also the independent risk factor of PFS in TETs (HR=0.26; 95% CI: 0.08-0.91; p=0.035). Further analyses showed that the expression of MCM2 was decreased from type B1 to B3 thymomas.
Conclusions: MCM2 expression was the independent risk factor for TETs. The expression of MCM2 was significantly associated with a prolonged PFS, and it was decreased from type B1 to B3 thymomas. Therefore, MCM2 may be a favorable prognostic marker in type B thymomas.
Association of PON1-L55M Genetic Variation with Idiopathic Male Infertility in an Iranian Population: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Mortezapour Hanie , Colagar Abasalt Hosseinzadeh , Fallah Fatemeh , Taravati Ali , Jorsaraei Ali
Published: October 2023

The risk of male infertility is related to gene polymorphisms that reduce the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1), is an antioxidant calcium-dependent enzyme has been implicated in the pathogenesis of male infertility. This study aimed to explore the relationship between PON1-L55M polymorphism with idiopathic male infertility. In this case–control study Semen samples were collected from 77 healthy men controls and 128 infertile donors. The paraoxonase activity of PON1 enzyme were measured by spectrophotometric methods. Genomic DNA was extracted from sperm and rs854560 (L55M) was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and PCR sequencing. Statistical analysis indicated that significant difference in genotype frequencies of PON1 L55M polymorphism between patients and controls. Our results showed that, the men with a MM genotype (p= 0.021; OR= 0.091, CI=0.012-0.7) had a significant increased risk of idiopathic male infertility than those with a LM genotype (p= 0.013; OR=0.418, CI=0.27-0.855). In addition, PON1 activities in LL genotype were the highest than LM and MM genotype respectively (MM<LM<LL) in both patients and controls. So, the PON1-L55M is more likely to be a risk factor for idiopathic infertility in Iranian men. Based on the findings of this study, PON1 rs854560 (L55M) variation may be related to semen PON1 activity and the risk of idiopathic male infertility in Iranian population. Nevertheless, we suggested that, future studies focused on some factors such as, environmental and epigenetic factors in larger sample size are needed to reach accurate results.
Quality of working life in relation to occupational stress, anxiety and depression of workers in primary and secondary healthcare workplaces.
Authors: Sotiria Barbagianni , Ioannis Moisoglou , Meimeti Evangelia , Ioanna Dimitriadou , Marilena Gialama , Petros Galanis
Published: October 2023

Background
Healthcare professionals work in a demanding working environment, due to which they may develop high levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
Aims
To assess the quality of working life of healthcare professionals and to investigate the association between stress, anxiety and depression and the quality of working life.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study implemented in two primary healthcare centers and a general hospital in Greece, between January to February 2020. A total of 248 healthcare professionals participated. The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS 21) and the Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL) were used.
Results
Healthcare professionals had normal stress (10.11), depression (6.69), anxiety (5.10) and appeared to had moderate quality in their working life. The quality of the working life was found to be influenced by educational level, as the level of education increases, occupational burnout (p = 0.015) and secondary traumatic stress (p = 0.001) decrease. Correlation of the demographic characteristics of the sample and the DASS-21 scale showed that as the level of education increases, depression, stress and anxiety decrease (p < 0.05). Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that increased depression, anxiety and stress were associated with increased occupational burnout and secondary traumatic stress and on the other hand, decreased depression, anxiety and stress were associated with increased compassion satisfaction.
Conclusions
The study emphasized the significance of the management of healthcare organizations to achieve a reduction of stress, depression and anxiety among healthcare professionals in order to ensure a better-quality working life.
Türkiye Karasal Rüzgar Enerji Santrallerin Maliyet Analizi: Adilcevaz Bölgesi Vaka Çalışması
Authors: ÇELİKDEMİR Soner , ÖZDEMİR Mahmut Temel
Published: October 2023

Elektrik enerjisi kullanımının artması yeni yatırımları da gerektirmektedir. Bu nedenle bir çok farklı yeni elektrik enerjisi üretim sistemi yatırımlarının yapılması kaçınılmazdır. Bu bağlamda gerçekçi bir maliyet tahminine sahip olmak yatırımcılara birçok avantaj sağlamaktadır. Bu avantajı kullanmak için bu çalışmada RES’lerin gerçekçi yatırım maliyetlerinin belirlenmesine odaklanılmıştır. Çalışmada, Türkiye'deki RES yatırım maliyetleri analiz edilerek yeni RES yatırım maliyetlerinin tahmini için ilk kez bir denklem modeli önerilmiştir. Önerilen denklem modelinde parametreleri belirlemek için Kaos Gömülü Adaptif Parçacık Sürü Optimizasyonu tercih edilmiştir. Önerilen denklem modelindeki parametrelerin hesaplanması için MATLAB programı kullanılmıştır. Yapılan analiz sonucunda ortalama hata %6,37 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Farklı türbin türlerindeki RES’ler ile önerilen denklem modelinin doğruluğu test edilmiştir. Test sonucunda önerilen denklem modelinin geçerliliği gösterilmiştir. Yapılan analiz sonucunda ortalama hata % 6,77 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Ayrıca çalışmada duyarlılık analizi yapılmış ve farklı parametre değerlerindeki maliyet değişimleri ifade edilmiştir. Duyarlılık analizine göre maliyet üzerinde kurulu güç değerindeki değişimin, rotor çapı ve kule yüksekliğindeki değişime göre daha baskın olduğu görülmektedir. Son olarak Adilcevaz bölgesinde bir vaka çalışması yapılmıştır. Belirlenen bölgede kurulacak rüzgar enerji çiftliği için 4 farklı türbin markasına ait 14 farklı türbin modeli için maliyetler hesaplanmıştır. Bu hesaplamalar sonucunda birim maliyet olarak uygun türbin modeli Nordex N117-3/3 olarak belirlenmiştir.
Diversitäts-Hotspots der Flussflora am Oberen Mittelrhein nach dem Extremniedrigwasser 2018
Authors: Kosack Lutz
Published: October 2023

Im Spätsommer 2018 sanken die Pegelstände des Rheins auf Rekordwerte. Unter diesen Bedingungen konnten auf den großflächig und längerfristig trocken gefallenen Rheinufern am Oberen Mittelrhein zahlreiche Vegetationsaufnahmen durchgeführt werden. Infolge des andauernden Niedrigwassers erwiesen sich die stark hemeroben Uferbereiche als überaus artenreiche Lebensräume. Auf den offenen Kies- und Sandflächen konnten neben vielen indigenen Arten der Auen auch zahlreiche Neophyten nachgewiesen werden. Bei der Inventur wurde erkennbar, dass jeder Rheinabschnitt eine charakteristische Flora zeigte, möglicherweise nicht unwesentlich durch anthropogene Diasporeneinträge verursacht. Insbesondere Flussbauwerke in Form von Buhnen und deren Umfeld erweisen sich nach den derzeitigen Beobachtungen als hochwertige anthropogene Lebensräume und als lokale Hotspots der Biodiversität.
Libellenfauna an neu angelegten Tümpeln im Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis im Jahr 2017 (Insecta: Odonata)
Authors: Rosenbach Jan , Sarpkan Marian , Braun Manfred , Braun Ursula , Wagner Thomas
Published: October 2023

Anfang des Jahres 2016 wurden im Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis 68 Stillgewässer, die sich nur aus dem Niederschlag speisen, als ökologische Kompensationsmaßnahme neu angelegt. Vom 1. Juni bis 26. September 2017 wurde in einem Begehungsintervall von ungefähr zwei Wochen an 37 dieser „Himmelsteiche“ die Libellenfauna erfasst. Dabei konnten 21 Arten nachgewiesen werden, maximal 15 Arten an einem Gewässer. Die meisten Arten waren erwartungsgemäß Ubiquisten wie Coenagrion puella und Aeshna cyanea, die bereits in der zweiten Vegetationsperiode an vielen Tümpeln als bodenständig eingeschätzt werden können. Häufig waren insbesondere die Pionierarten Libellula depressa und Ischnura elegans. Faunistisch bedeutsam ist die Gabel-Azurjungfer (Coenagrion scitulum), die an mindestens vier Tümpeln gefunden wurde. Die thermophile Art hat sich in den letzten dreißig Jahren beeindruckend schnell nach Norden ausgebreitet und konnte nun erstmals für den nordöstlichen Hunsrück nachgewiesen werden.