bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Amniotic Membrane Allografts in Advanced Venous Leg Ulcer: A Case Study and Literature Review
Authors: Lambert Naomi , Vinke Eric , Barrett Tyler , Regulski Matthew
Published: September 2022

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a lifelong, moribund, and debilitating disease process with tremendous personal and financial costs. At its core, CVI involves blood pooling in the lower extremities secondary to inadequate venous blood return, resulting in venous hypertension and incompetence of the one-way valves in the lower extremity veins. As venous circulation slows, metabolic demands of the cells in the lower extremities increase, leading to stasis dermatitis, infection, cellular death, and venous ulceration. This case study aims to report the efficacy of dehydrated amniotic membrane allograft (DAMA) applications to a chronic right lateral ankle ulcer resulting from chronic venous insufficiency. The patient in this study received DAMA applications weekly for six weeks. Upon examination at the initial application, the wound was wet and macerated due to drainage with significant hemosiderosis and lipodermatosclerosis consistent with a Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) of 2. Upon inspection at the final visit, the wound was closed, with a VCSS of 0. This case study demonstrates that the application of DAMA has the potential to act as an effective barrier to cover and accelerate wound closure time. Future non randomized and randomized controlled trials may further establish standardized protocols for DAMA application in venous ulceration, help create treatment algorithms to predict wound closure endpoints, and encourage innovation that may further accelerate healing time.
Helper Innate Lymphoid Cells as Cell Therapy for Cancer
Authors: Magnusson Fay C. , Bahhar Ilham
Published: September 2022

Although the first cancer immunotherapy was given in the clinic more than a century ago, this line of treatment has remained more of a distant goal than a practical therapy due to limited understanding of the tumor microenvironment and the mechanisms at play within it, which lead to failures of numerous clinical trials. However, in the last two decades, the immune checkpoint inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapies have revolutionized the treatment of cancer and provided proof-of-concept that immunotherapies are a viable option. So far, immunotherapies have majoritarily focused on utilizing T cells, however T cells are not autonomous but rather function as part of, and therefore are influenced by, a vast cast of other immune cells, including innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). Here, we summarize the role of ILCs, especially helper ILCs, in tumor development, progression and metastasis, as well as their potential to be used as immunotherapy for cancer. By reviewing the studies that used helper ILCs as adoptive cell therapy, we highlight the rationale behind considering these cells as novel adoptive cell therapy for cancer as well as identify open questions and areas for future research.
Realization of turbulent flows mixing and combustion model in the program complex framework
Authors: Solomatin Roman Sergeevich
Published: September 2022

Mathematical model and numerical algorithm realization in parallel program complex for spatial turbulent multicomponent reactive flows modelling is considered. Summary of employed gas-dynamic and chemical kinetics equation systems is given. Time marching schemes and applied numerical method are described. Thorough flowcharts of program complex and its computational module operation with applied algorithms, file formats and structures, third-party packages and some realization features are introduced. Example of the result of program complex operation is demonstrated on numerical solution of model gas-dynamic problems.
Dampak Implementasi CSR dan Ukuran Perusahaan Terhadap Kinerja Keuangan Perusahaan Sektor Infrastruktur
Authors: Noor Ahmad Ikliluddien , Srimindarti Ceacilia
Published: September 2022

This study aims to analyze how the influence of the implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and firm size on the company's financial performance. This study's populations are infrastructure companies listed on the Indonesia stock exchange during 2017-2020, and 20 companies were used as a sample. The sample selection in this study uses a purposive sampling method. The data were analyzed using panel data regression analysis. This research found that implementing corporate social responsibility does not affect the company's financial performance. At the same time, the firm size has a negative effect on the company's financial performance.
A Three-Dimensional Constitutive Model for Rocks Based on a Strain-Dependent Elastic Modulus
Authors: Li Z. , Fujii Y. , Kodama J. , Fukuda D. , Dassanayake A. B. N. , Sinkala P.
Published: September 2022

Our research group previously proposed a simple two-dimensional (2D) constitutive model for rocks to simulate not only the axial stress–axial strain relationship, but also the axial stress–lateral strain relationship, with few complicated equations. However, the failure envelope that it predicted was linear, and it did not consider the effect of the intermediate principal stress (σ2). In the present study, the authors modify this simple 2D model to have a convex failure criterion. Then, the model is extended to a simple three-dimensional (3D) model that well approximates true triaxial stress–strain curves for real rocks under specific values of σ2 and σ3 and uses only four parameters. However, the predicted peak stress–σ2 relationship is linear. Finally, a modified 3D model was developed, which exhibited the true triaxial convex failure criterion. The equations in this model are simpler than the conventional true triaxial failure criteria. The proposed models can be implemented with a finite element method to improve the design of rock structures.
Energy Chaos Characteristic Evolution Analysis of Sandstones during Multilevel Unloading Subject to Different Confining Pressures
Authors: Dang Shuang , Bi Jing , Zhao Yu , Wang Chaolin , Xia Kaizong , Gan Fei
Published: September 2022

In this study, multilevel and conventional unloading triaxial compression tests under different confining pressures are separately carried out to systematically reveal the deformation, energy evolution, and fracture characteristics of sandstone samples. Results show that under the multilevel unloading condition, the increase of the initial confining pressure has a more obvious inhibitory effect on the radial strain of sandstone, and the samples can fully exhibit elastic deformation and partial plastic deformation, showing obvious plastic characteristics. The radial energy growth factor is more sensitive than the axial energy growth factor during the process of confining pressure unloading, and the larger the initial confining pressure, the earlier the period-doubling bifurcation region and chaotic region are reached. To better understand the deformation and failure process of rock during engineering excavation, it is necessary to establish a constitutive relation describing the mechanical properties of rock. The three-step failure mode also proves that there are tensile and shear fractures in sandstone samples, in which the effects of tensile stress and shear stress are more or less interdependent in the failure process. It can be seen that multilevel unloading makes the energy conversion more adequate and reduces the sudden release of energy when the rock fails, reducing the possibility of rockburst and making the excavation unloading process safer. This will deepen the understanding of rock failure behavior and contribute to the better application of energy characteristics to relevant engineering practices.
Earthquake-Induced Stress Amplification and Rock Fragmentation within a Deep-Seated Bedding Fault: Case Study of the Daguangbao Landslide Triggered by the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake (Ms=8.0)
Authors: Cui Shenghua , Pei Xiangjun , Yang Hailong , Yang Qingwen , Zhu Ling
Published: September 2022

The 2008 Wenchuan Ms 8.0 earthquake triggered the Daguangbao (DGB) landslide, of which the shear surface belongs to a thrust bedding fault 400 m below the carbonate slope. After the landslide, a 1.8 km-long inclined sliding face (0.3 km2) was exposed in the south source area. By using shaking table test, the contributions of the fault to the landslide sliding have been studied in this paper. The bedding fault in the test model is simplified as a weak layer with small elasticity and the carbonate layers as a hard layer with high elastic modulus, which is 296 times the weak one. The test records larger displacement amplitude in the upper hard layer than that in the lower one and larger pressure amplitude in the weak layer than that in the hard ones. We ascribed the stress amplification in the weak layer to time delay of shaking wave as wave velocity in the weak layer is only 1/15 of that in the hard layers. Such time delay gives rise to phase differences between the hard layers during shaking. The compressive stress amplification occurs in the weak layer when the upper hard layer moves downwards relative to the lower one; otherwise, tensile stress amplification occurs. It is suggested that this kind of stress amplification triggered an extensive fragmentation of the bedding fault rock mass during the Wenchuan earthquake, which can be verified by a good deal of gentle-dip and steep-dip cracks observed on site. It is proposed that stress amplification had caused a fast dropping of shear strength in the bedding fault to enhance the suddenness of DGB landslide initiation.
Carbon stock assessment on natural mangrove species of Avicennia marina in Pichavaram mangrove forest Southeast coast of India
Authors: Natarajan Manivannan , Ayyappan Saravanakumar , vajiravelu manigandan
Published: September 2022

Avecennia marina is potential mangrove plant and it exhibits high CO2 accumulation, rapid growth with high biomass and significant carbon storage in soil than other mangroves. The present study conducted to imply the carbon sequestration potential of mangrove along with their biomass and sediment characteristics for the year 2017. The study was conducted on natural stand of Avicennia marina at Pichavaram mangrove forest in Southeast coast of India. To highlight the significance of mangroves a comparative carbon stock assessment was made on natural stand of Avicennia marina, and with the non-mangrove barren habitat. The analysed parameters are leaf area index, net canopy photosynthesis, biomass, biomass carbon and soil characteristics such as, total organic carbon, total carbon, temperature, pore water salinity, moisture, bulk density, soil texture, nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. The average measured value of leaf area index and net canopy photosynthesis were 1.66m2/m2, and 6.03 gC/m2. The level of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium (NPK) were higher in A. Marina when compared to non-mangrove barren site. One way ANOVA was conducted for the soil sediment characteristic observed for the both site and no significant variation was observed except particle density, soil clay, loss of ignition and available potassium and phosphorous. In correlation analyses significant positive correlation was observed with temperature and soil while soil silt had negative correlation with bulk density, pore space, soil sand and clay. Temperature and sand content was lower than that of barren habitat. Soil moisture, bulk density, particle density, pore space, pore water salinity, soil silt and clay content showed higher value in mangrove soil than that of barren habitat. The present investigation revealed the total organic carbon (TOC) and total carbon (TC) was 7 fold higher in A. marina when compared to barren habitat.
Delta Oscillation Coupled Propagating Fast Ripples Precede Epileptiform Discharges in Patients with Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Weiss Shennan , Sheybani Laurent , Seenarine Nitish , Fried Itzhak , Sharan Ashwini , Wu Chengyuan , Engel Jerome , Sperling Michael , Nir Yuval , Staba Richard
Published: September 2022

Epileptiform spikes are brief (50-200 msec) sharply contoured waveforms in the electroencephalogram that are used to diagnose epilepsy and localize epileptogenic brain tissue. The mechanisms that spontaneously trigger epileptiform discharges are not yet elucidated. Fast ripples (FR, 200-600 Hz) are associated with epileptogenic brain tissue and may play critical roles in the epileptic network that generates seizures. We postulated that FR network interactions are involved in generating epileptiform spikes. Using macroelectrode stereo EEG recordings from a cohort of 46 patients we found that spatially propagating FR, in the seizure onset zone (SOZ), often was followed by an epileptiform spike (p<0.05). Propagating FR, compared to non-propagating FR, exhibited a distinct frequency and larger power (p<1e-10) and were strongly phase coupled to the peak of delta oscillation DOWN states during non-REM sleep (p<1e-10). While FR propagation was rare, all FR occurred with the highest probability, in the inter-ictal epoch, within +/- 400 msec of certain epileptiform spikes (p<0.05). Thus, a distinct sub-population of epileptiform spikes in the SOZ, are preceded, and perhaps triggered by, propagating FR that are coordinated by the DOWN state during non-REM sleep. Our results also imply that FR propagation plays a role in the epileptic network.
AuthROS: Secure Data Sharing Among Robot Operating Systems Based on Ethereum
Authors: Zhang Shenhui , Li Wenkai , Li Xiaoqi , Liu Boyi
Published: September 2022

The Robot Operating System (ROS) streamlines human processes, increasing the efficiency of various production tasks. However, the security of data transfer operations in ROS is still in its immaturity. Securing data exchange between several robots is a significant problem. This paper proposes \textit{AuthROS}, an Ethereum blockchain-based secure data sharing method, for robot communication. It is a ROS node authorization system capable of ensuring the immutability and security of private data flow between ROS nodes of any size. To ensure data security, AuthROS employs the smart contract for permission granting and identification, SM2-based key exchange, and SM4-based plaintext encryption techniques. In addition, we deploy a data digest upload technique to optimize data query and upload performance. Finally, the experimental findings reveal that AuthROS has strong security, time performance, and node forging in cases where data should be recorded and robots need to remain immobile.
Exploring the role of carbon and nitrogen metabolism in Chenopodium quinoa (Willd.) from the commencement of grain growth until maturity
Authors: Grewal Satvir Kaur , Gill Ranjit Kaur , Chandora Rahul
Published: September 2022

Co-ordination between carbon and nitrogen metabolism plays a vital role in maintaining the source-sink relationship between the reproductive structures (inflorescence and seed). The present investigation was carried out to study carbon and nitrogen metabolism in quinoa genotypes IC411824, IC411825, EC507747 and EC507742 at different stages of anthesis and post -anthesis, which could affect seed growth and maturity. Carbon metabolism enzymes such as acid invertase, sucrose synthase (cleavage), and sucrose phosphate synthase showed increased activity from 75 to 90 days after sowing (DAS) in inflorescence of quinoa genotypes, which might be responsible for the assimilation of carbohydrates required for seed development during the post-anthesis period. Activities of acid invertase and sucrose synthase (cleavage) were observed to be maximum in seeds of quinoa genotypes at 110 DAS, then decreased as seed development progressed, reaching a minimum near seed maturity at 124 DAS. Nitrogen metabolizing enzymes such as glutamate dehydrogenase and nitrite reductase plays a central role in the re- assimilation of amides from the amino group of asparginase at 90 DAS in inflorescence and 124 DAS at seed maturity. IC411825 and EC507747 genotypes had better availability to assimilate the nutrients and their remobilization during the onset of seed development. The pattern of carbon and nitrogen metabolism enzymes at different stages of inflorescence and grain development influenced the source sink relationship mediating partitioning and accumulation of assimilates during of anthesis and post anthesis periods of grain development in quinoa, which eventually led to grain development and yield establishment.
Gene Expression and Early Radiation Response of Two Distinct Neuroblastoma Cell Lines
Authors: Ritner Carissa , Popovic Jelena , Abouzeid Aushra , Li Ya , Paunesku Tatjana , Papineni Rao , Woloschak Gale
Published: September 2022

Simple Summary: Neuroblastoma is a common pediatric cancer that spreads systemically, making therapy difficult. Tumors are frequently resistant to radiation therapy, a last line of defense in patients with aggressive disease. In this study, we found that there are distinct gene expression patterns dependent on neuroblastoma subtype; however, both neuroblastoma types examined showed only subtle gene expression differences early following radiation exposure. This indicates that while neuroblastoma tumors are diverse in phenotype and gene expression, they have similarly stable gene expression and resistance during early response to stressors such as radiation.
Abstract: External beam radiation is infrequently used for treatment of pediatric cancer such as neuroblastoma, typically reserved for palliative care in patients with aggressive metastatic disease who fail to respond to alternative treatments. Understanding effects of radiation on neuroblastoma cells could improve efficacy of this final means of therapy to decrease tumor burden and stabilize the disease. In this study, clonogenic assays were used to establish radiation responses for SK-N-AS and SK-N-DZ cell lines; cells were then irradiated at doses that cause 90% cell killing based on clonogenic assay and their RNA isolated and subjected to microarray analysis. In addition, cells were transfected with pre-miRNA constructs that led to overexpression of microRNAs miR-34a and miR-1228. Statistically significant differences were detected for expression of several thousands of genes when the two cell lines were compared with each other. In comparison, radiation led only to minor gene expression differences of less than two-fold at the 1h post-irradiation timepoint in both cell lines. Overexpression of miR-34a and miR-1228 in either cell line did not change this outcome. Therefore, neuroblastoma cell lines SK-N-AS and SK-N-DZ are phenotypically diverse and gene expression differences between them are extensive. At the same time, the regulation of gene expression in both of these cell lines is in a stable equilibrium at early timepoints after exposure to ionizing radiation.
Based annual classification of precipitation fallow period in dryland the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Noor Hafeez , Min Sun , Li· Tingliang , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: September 2022

In order to clarify the relationship between wheat yield and precipitation in dryland region, the annual classification method of precipitation in fallow period was summarized in this paper by analyzing precipitation, precipitation distribution and its relationship with yield in Wenxi Experimental Base of Shanxi Province and major meteorological stations on the Loess Plateau from 1983 to 2020.The results showed that the average precipitation during fallow period was 296mm (coefficient of variation CV = 10%), accounting for 58% (coefficient of variation CV = 6%) of annual precipitation in the upland region of the Loess Plateau. With the increase of precipitation in fallow period, the wheat yield in dryland increased logarithmically (Y = 2526.5 lnX-10148, R2 = 0.42, P < 0.05). The method of annual classification of precipitation in fallow period. Divide the year type by annual precipitation, wet year: Pi > Pm + 0.33δ; Pm-0.33 δ ≤ Pi ≤ Pm + 0.33δ; Dry years: Pi < Pm-0.33 δ, Pi was annual precipitation (mm); Pm is perennial average annual precipitation (mm); δ is mean variance of annual precipitation (mm). The proportion of perennial and humid fallow precipitation was lower than the multi-year average were defined as abnormal years, and the years in which the proportion of arid fallow precipitation was higher than the multi-year average were defined as abnormal years.
A clinical study of topical treatment for thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy with dry eye syndrome
Authors: Sun Rou , Yang Muyue , Lin Chenyi , Wu Yu , Sun Jing , Zhou Huifang
Published: September 2022

PurposeTo evaluate the clinical effect of vitamin A palmitate eye gel and sodium hyaluronate eye drop for thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) with dry eye syndrome.MethodsThe study was conducted in the Ophthalmology Department of the Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated with the Medical College of Shanghai Jiao Tong University from May to October 2020. A total of 80 mild or moderate-to-severe inactive TAO patients with dry eye syndrome were divided into the control or the experimental group. Patients in the experimental group were treated with vitamin A palmitate eye gel three times/day for one month and sodium hyaluronate eye drop in the control group. The index of the dry eye test, including break-up time (BUT) and Schirmer I test (SIT), corneal fluorescence staining (FL), ocular surface disease index (OSDI), and adverse reactions were analyzed. The data were analyzed by SPSS 24.0.ResultsAfter the intervention, the effective rate was 67.7% in the control group and 91.2% in the experimental group. The BUT value of the experimental group was significantly longer than that of control group (P=0.009). For the control group, the OSDI score and FL grade were significantly improved after treatment (P=0.002), while BUT score and FL grade were significantly improved after treatment for the experimental group (P<0.001). ConclusionIn patients with TAO, vitamin A palmitate gel and sodium hyaluronate eye drop improved the dry eye and promoted corneal epithelial repair. Vitamin A palmitate gel improves the stability of tear film, while sodium hyaluronate eye drop improves patients’ subjective discomfort.
Some Meat Quality Traits and Fatty Acid Composition of Saanen, Turkish Hair × Saanen (F1) and Honamlı × Saanen (F1) Crossbreed Kids in Tropical Region of Turkey
Authors: AKBAŞ Aykut Asım , KULEAŞAN Şükran , ÜSTÜNER Hakan , ELMAZ Ozkan , SARI Mehmet , SAATCI Mustafa
Published: September 2022

The study was aimed to investigate the possibilities of obtaining slaughtered kids using indigenous breeds in Saanen flocks, which does not require breeding. The cross-sectional surface of the Musculus longissimus dorsi (MLD) muscle was used to evaluate the some meat quality parameters. Evaluations were made after slaughtering and at 24th hour and on 7th day after the slaughtering. The average values of pH, pH 24, cooking loss, water holding capacity and shear force values obtained in research groups were 6.46, 5.02, 24.58%, 3.25% and 3.67 kg / cm2 in Honamlı x Saanen; In the same order, 6.46, 5.69, 25.66%, 5.59% and 4.52 kg / cm2 in Saanen and 6.62, 5.27, 22.69%, 2.55% and 4.25 kg / cm2, in the Turkish Hair x Saanen (F1) respectively.. It was found in the study that L0 (brightness), a0 (redness) and b0 (yellowness) values were 47.50, 7.51 and 12.67 for Honamlı x Saanen crossbred kids, respectively. The same values were 48.34, 7.74, and 12.62 for Saanen kids and 47.73, 8.01, and 13.20 for Turkish Hair x Saanen crossbred kids, respectively. In the study, the amount of muscle fat in Turkish Hair x Saanen (F1) crossbred kids was found 2.85%. While there was no difference in oleic acid content among genotypes, the ω-6 fatty acids linoleic and arachidonic were detected in the Saanen kids with a maximum of 10.67% and 4.98%, respectively (P < 0.05). According to findings, It was found that Honamlı x Saanen (F1) cross kids have shown beter performance for many traits than others. Therefore, Saanen farms which has no need young breeding animal can use Honamlı bucks as patternal line for the butchered kid production. This application can be introduced to the sector.
Major Earthquakes on the Southern San Andreas Fault Modulated by Lake Filling Events
Authors: Hill Ryley , Weingarten Matthew , Rockwell Thomas , Fialko Yuri
Published: September 2022

We use new geologic and paleoseismic data to demonstrate that the past 6 major earthquakes on the Southern San Andreas Fault (SSAF) correlate with high-stands of the ancient Lake Cahuilla, a ~236 km^3 body of water adjacent to the SSAF. In order to investigate possible causal relationships, we computed time-dependent Coulomb stress changes due to variations in the lake level over the last ~1100 years. Simulations were performed using a fully coupled 3-D finite element model incorporating a poroelastic crust overlying a viscoelastic mantle. We find that the Coulomb stress perturbations on the SSAF are positive (i.e., promoting failure) throughout the lake loading history. For a plausible range of lake ages and material properties of the Earth's crust, the estimated stress perturbations are of the order of 0.5 MPa, likely sufficient for triggering. Stress perturbations are dominated by pore pressure changes, but are enhanced by the poroelastic "memory" effect whereby increases in pore pressure due to previous lake high stands do not completely vanish by diffusion and constructively interfere with the undrained response in subsequent high stands. Our preferred model suggests that the lake loading complemented the interseismic stress accumulation on average by as much as 16-44%. The destabilizing effects of lake inundation are enhanced by a non-vertical fault dip, presence of a fault damage zone, and lateral pore pressure diffusion. Our model may be applicable to other regions where hydrologic loading, either natural or anthropogenic, was associated with significant seismicity.
The efficacy and safety of remimazolam versus propofol for endoscopy in Chinese patients: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Li Xiaoxiao , Han Yurong , Chang Pan , Zhang Wensheng
Published: September 2022

Background
Several trials have been designed to assess the efficacy and safety of remimazolam for endoscopy in Chinese patients. However, the results were not powerful with the small number of patients. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of remimazolam compared with propofol for endoscopy.
Materials and Methods
We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, China Wan Fang, CNKI, and ClinicalTrials.gov (up to 6 November 2021). Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing I.V. propofol versus remimazolam for endoscopy were included. The primary outcome was sedation success rate. The trial sequential analysis (TSA) and GRADE assessment were performed to evaluate the level of evidence.
Results
Nine RCTs with 1321 patients were included. Although the success rate in the remimazolam group (97.6%) was lower than that in the propofol group (98.9%), the difference was not statistically significant (RR 0.98, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.97 to 1.00; I2 = 16%, P = 0.09; high-quality). Moreover, I.V. remimazolam led to a significant reduction in the incidence of injection pain (RR 0.03, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.08; I2 = 0%; P < 0.001; high-quality), intraoperative hypotension (RR 0.37, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.60; I2 = 78%; P < 0.001; low-quality), and respiratory depression (RR 0.17, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.28; I2 = 0%; P < 0.001; high-quality). TSA showed that the cumulative Z curve crossed the monitoring boundary for all outcomes.
Conclusion
There is high-quality evidence to support that compared with propofol for Chinese patients undergoing endoscopy, remimazolam has similar high sedation success rates, with less injection pain and respiratory depression; there is low-quality evidence to support the benefit of low incidence of hypotension of remimazolam.
Clinical Evaluation of Resin Infiltration Treatment Effect on Hypomineralised Enamel Surfaces
Authors: Altan Halenur , Yılmaz Rabia Erağca
Published: September 2022

Background: Resin infiltration is a minimally invasive treatment for molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH). It was aimed to evaluate changes in the degree of mineralisation, colour, and size of MIH lesions after resin infiltration treatment in permanent teeth.Methods: A total of 116 permanent central incisors in 37 patients were included in the study. resin infiltration treatment (Icon®) was applied to the teeth with MIH; the healthy teeth received no treatment (control). Lesions were evaluated before; immediately after; and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Degree of mineralisation, changes in lesion colour, and lesion size were evaluated using the laser fluorescence (DIAGNOdent Pen), spectrophotometer (VITA EasyShade), and cross polarisation photography, respectively. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.Results: Degree of mineralisation values before treatment were significantly higher than posttreatment times (p < 0.05). In the treatment group, lesion areas decreased significantly after treatment (p < 0.05).Conclusions: Considering the degree of mineralisation, changes in colour, and size of MIH lesions, resin infiltration is a clinically effective treatment for MIH lesions, with stable outcomes after 6 months.Trial registrationThe protocol was registered at Clinical Trials.gov (NCT04685889).
Elevation of cAMP upregulates Cav1.2 expression and promotes odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells
Authors: JIN Changlong , JU Yanqin , Zhao Shouliang , XIE Han
Published: September 2022

Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) are promising cellular sources in dental tissue engineering. Although studies have reported that cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and Cav1.2 played important roles in the differentiation of stem cells, the relation between cAMP and Cav1.2 in the odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs still remained unclear. This study hypothesized that elevating cAMP contributed to the odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs by regulating Cav1.2 expression. Here, Forskolin was used to activate cAMP and Nimodipine was used to inhibit Cav1.2. This study firstly screened out the safety concentrations of Forskolin and Nimodipine by CCK-8 proliferation assay. Following, Forskolin was used to elevate cAMP during odontogeinic differentiation of hDPSCs. qPCR was performed to compare the odontogenic differentiation-related gene expression between groups. The odontogenic mineralization was evaluated by Alizarin Red Staining. Subsequently, in order to investigate the relation between cAMP and Cav1.2, hDPSCs was treated with Nimodipine in one hour before Forskolin adding. Finally, Alizarin Red Staining and qPCR were performed to observe mineralized deposit formation and the Cav1.2 together with odongenic related gene expression in each group. Results showed that Forskolin promoted the formation of mineralized nodules in hDPSCs. The expression of odontogenic related genes (ALP, RUNX2, OSX, BMP2, DSPP) and Cav1.2 were also upregulated after 14 days of odontogenic induction. Nimodipine inhibited the odontogenic differentiation and attenuated the promoting effect of Forskolin during the odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. The above results suggested that the elevation of cAMP could upregulate Cav1.2 expression and significantly promote odongenic differentiation of hDPSCs.
Comparison of Quality of Life in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease undergoing haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and conservative management in Johannesburg, South Africa: a cross-sectional, descriptive study
Authors: Mathew Neelu , Davies Malcolm , Kaldine Feroza , Cassimjee Zaheera
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Mental health and quality of life are under-appreciated clinical targets which affect patient and modality survival. Lack of dialysis slot availability in the resource-constrained public health sector in South Africa, results in assignment to treatment modalities without regard to effects on these parameters. We assessed the effect of dialysis modality, demographic and laboratory parameters on mental health and quality of life measurements.Methods: Size-matched voluntary cohorts were recruited from patients on haemodialysis (HD), peritoneal dialysis (PD), and patients on conservative management (with an estimated glomerular filtration rate below 20mL/min/1.73m2), between September 2020 and March 2021. Responses to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form 36 (KDQOL-SF36) questionnaires and demographic and baseline laboratory parameters were compared between treatment modalities using the Student t-test and Pearson Chi-square test. Linear regression was used to test for independent effect where significant difference was observed.Results: HADS anxiety score was highest (p < 0.001) and KDQOL-SF36 emotional wellbeing was poorer in HD (p < 0.001). Social functioning (p = 0.011) and physical limitation due to pain (p = 0.030) were poorer in PD. Unemployment (p = 0.044) was more frequent in HD; fewer PD patients required a social support grant (p = 0.008). Significant independent effect was found for age (p = 0.009), employment (p = 0.007), and haemoglobin (Hb) (p = 0.025) on anxiety; HD worsened (p = 0.037) and PD improved (p = 0.007) anxiety. Unemployment (p < 0.001) and low Hb (p = 0.018) worsened depression. PD improved (p= 0.002) and HD worsened (p < 0.001) emotional well-being. PD worsened social functioning (p = 0.002). PD (p = 0.007) and higher phosphate (p = 0.022) worsened and HD (p = 0.01) and higher Hb (p = 0.02) improved physical discomfort / pain.Conclusion: Advanced chronic kidney disease increases anxiety and depression and limits quality of life. Peritoneal dialysis improves mental health and emotional wellbeing and preserves the ability to undertake economic activity but limits social functioning and causes greater physical discomfort. Targeting haemoglobin and phosphate may ameliorate modality effects on mental health and quality of life.
First-in-human diagnostic study of hepatic steatosis with computed ultrasound tomography in echo mode (CUTE)
Authors: Stähli Patrick , Becchetti Chiara , Martiartu Naiara Korta , Berzigotti Annalisa , Frenz Martin , Jaeger Michael
Published: September 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is rapidly emerging as the leading global cause of chronic liver disease. Efficient disease management requires low-cost, noninvasive techniques for diagnosing hepatic steatosis accurately. Here we propose quantifying liver speed-of-sound (SoS) with computed US tomography in echo mode (CUTE), a newly developed US imaging modality adapted to clinical pulse-echo systems. CUTE reconstructs the spatial distribution of SoS by measuring local echo phase shifts when probing tissue at different steering angles in transmission and reception. This first-in-human phase II study shows that liver CUTE-SoS estimates correlate strongly (r=-0.84, p=8.27∙10-13) with controlled attenuation parameter values, a commonly used tool for assessing liver steatosis, and have 90.9% (95% confidence interval: 84 - 100%) sensitivity and 95.5% (81 - 100%) specificity for differentiating normal and significantly steatotic livers. Because CUTE offers the same flexibility as conventional US imaging, it can be readily extended to other clinical applications, establishing it as a new quantitative add-on to diagnostic US.
Nephroangiosclerosis not related to hypertension: a matter to resolve in the era of precision medicine.
Authors: Gigante Antonietta , Lai silvia , Pellicano Chiara , De Marco Oriana , Rosato Edoardo , Giannakakis Konstantinos , D'Amati Giulia , Muscaritoli Maurizio , Ferri Claudio , Cianci Rosario
Published: September 2022

Nephroangiosclerosis (NAS) associated with hypertension continues to be one of the most causes of end stage renal diseases in Europe, but it is still poorly studied. The prevalence of NAS shows a large variability due to the difference among different countries regarding clinical presentations and the indication to perform renal biopsy. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence in biopsy-proven NAS patients and the association with hypertension and/or glomerulonephritis (GN). We included all patients referred for native kidney biopsy between 2003–2021 at Policlinic Umberto I of Rome. From 837 patients who underwent renal biopsy NAS was diagnosed in 80 (10.5%) patients. Serum creatinine was significantly higher in NAS [2.07 mg/dl (IQR 1.13–5.2) vs 1.1 mg/dl (IQR 0.8–2.1), p < 0.001] compared to patients without NAS. Hypertension was present in 45% of patients with NAS. Proteinuria was significantly higher in patients with mild-moderate NAS compared to patients with severe NAS [2.6 g/die (IQR 1–5) vs 1.5 g/die (IQR 0.86–2.3), p < 0.05]. We did not find any significant differences, including histological features, between NAS patients with hypertension and NAS patients without hypertension (p > 0.05). IgA nephropathy, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and membranous nephropathy were the most frequent GN associated. In conclusion no specific feautures are reported in NAS with and without hypertension. More informations on the phenotype, clinical presentation and markers are needed to improve histological and clinical diagnostics.
Storm Surge Level Prediction Based on Improved NARX Neural Network
Authors: Li Lianbo , Wu Wenhao , Zhang Wenjun , Zhu Zhenyu , Li Zhengqian , Wang Yihan , Niu Sen , Wang Xinyi , Fu Yaoyao
Published: September 2022

The northern Gulf of Mexico coast is affected by the North Atlantic hurricane season, which brings serious economic losses to the southern U.S. every year; therefore, it is necessary to make an accurate advance prediction of storm surge level. In this paper, a prediction model has been constructed based on Nonlinear Auto-Regressive Exogenous (NARX) Neural Network. Five types of data are selected as the input factors of the model. A neuron pruning strategy based on sensitivity analysis is introduced. Moreover, a modular prediction method is introduced based on the tide harmonic analysis so as to make the prediction results more accurate. At last, a complete storm surge level prediction model, Pruned Modular (PM)-NARX, is constructed. In this paper, the model is trained by using historical data and used for storm surge level prediction along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast in 2020. The simulation test results show that the correlation coefficient is stable above 0.99 at 12 h in advance within one minute. The prediction speed, accuracy, and stability are higher than those of conventional models. The above can prove that the PM-NARX can effectively provide early warning before the storm surge to avoid property damage and human casualties.
Extreme Temperatures and Temperature-Duration-Frequency (TDF) Relationship in Australia
Authors: Chowdhury Rezaul , Chadalavada Sreenivasulu , Pakdel Hadis , McDougall Kevin
Published: September 2022

The frequency and severity of extreme temperatures are changing and therefore, the necessity for the development of design temperatures has emerged. Design temperatures in the form of temperature-duration-frequency (TDF) curves can be utilized to better understand the variability of extreme temperatures with respect to duration and recurrence levels. This study explored the presence/absence of trend and step change in extreme temperatures for nine locations across Australia. Frequency analysis of annual maximum temperatures from 1- to 15-day durations was performed using a generalized extreme value (GEV) distribution under stationary and non-stationary conditions, where the parameters were estimated using the Monte Carlo Bayesian inference approach. Rising trend and step change were observed in Hobart, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Alice Springs, Sydney and Melbourne, but not identified in Cairns and Brisbane. Lower variability in design temperatures was found in Cairns and Brisbane, as well as in Darwin and Alice Springs. In contrast, high variability was observed in Sydney and Melbourne, and high design temperatures are reflected in Adelaide and Perth. The approach followed in this study can be applied to any location for TDF curves development and can be utilised to support health risk management of heatwaves, design of infrastructures where temperature related changes may impact the infrastructure, and for preparedness for natural hazards like droughts and bushfires.
Analysis of factors influencing hand function in patients with Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa following surgery
Authors: Wu Chong , Jiao Xin-He , Yang Tao
Published: September 2022

Background Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is a hereditary disease characterized by increased fragility of the epidermis and mucosa and is accompanied by blister formation following minor trauma. The patient develops blisters on the skin, which heal after being broken. Repeated injuries cause contracture and scar formation, which can further result in hand deformity, leading to a decline in hand ability and a lower quality of life.It is thus, critical to reconstructing the function and appearance of their hands through surgical manipulation to aid their reintegration into society. Objectives This study aimed to analyze patients' clinical and follow-up information to investigate the influencing factors of hand function in patients with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa after the release of scar contracture in both hands.Methods The hand function of the patients two years after the operation was assessed in accordance with the evaluation criteria formulated by the hand surgery branch of the Chinese Medical Association in 2000. According to the scoring results, the patients were divided into two groups. Those with excellent and good grades were assigned to the open hand function group, and those with poor and poor grades were allocated to the restricted hand function group. The primary conditions, the use of a postoperative hand brace, and some common factors in the two groups were compared to determine whether these parameters influence postoperative hand function.Results There were no significant differences in age, gender, nationality, body mass index, ADL assessment index, albumin concentration, hemoglobin concentration, fasting blood glucose level, prothrombin time, and activated partial thromboplastin time between the two groups (p>0.05). In contrast, there was a significant difference between the two groups in the use of hand braces following the operation (p<0.05). The odds ratio of patients fixed with a brace compared with patients not fixed with a brace was 11.01.Conclusions Hand brace is a critical factor impacting the hand function of patients with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa after scar contracture release in both hands. Indeed, a hand brace worn after the operation can delay the recurrence of scar contracture in both hands and offer patients a longer time to use their hands effectively.Level of Evidence IV
MicroRNA-708 emerges as a potential candidate to target undruggable NRAS
Authors: Lin Kai-Ti , Pang Jia Meng , Chien Po-Chen , Kao Ming-Chien , Chiu Pei-Yun , Chen Pin-Xu , Hsu Yu-Ling , Liu Chengyang , Liang Xiaowei
Published: September 2022

RAS (KRAS, NRAS, HRAS), the most frequently mutated oncogene in cancers, drives tumorigenesis by promoting cell proliferation, survival, and motility, was perceived undruggable for the past three decades. Intense research mainly focused on KRAS mutation, however, targeted therapy for NRAS mutation, which is frequently observed in several cancer types, including melanoma (15–20%), leukemia (10%), and occasionally other cancer types, remained an unmet medical need. Here we report using miRNA-708 that targets the distinct 3’ untranslated region (3’UTR) of NRAS to develop a miRNA-based precision medicine to treat NRAS mutation-driven cancers. We identify NRAS as a direct target of miRNA-708. Overexpression of miRNA-708 successfully reduced NRAS protein levels in NRAS-mutated melanoma, leukemia, and lung cancer cell line, resulting in suppressed cell proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, and promotion of reactive oxygen species-induced apoptosis. Consistent with the functional data, the activities of NRAS-downstream effectors, PI3K-AKT-mTOR or RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway, were impaired in miR-708 overexpressing cells. On the other hand, cell proliferation was not disturbed by miRNA-708 in cells carrying wildtype NRAS. Collectively, our data unveil the therapeutic potential of using miRNA-708 in NRAS mutation-driven cancer through direct depletion of constitutively active NRAS and thus inhibit its downstream effectors to decelerate cancer progression. Harnessing the beneficial effects of miR-708 may therefore offer a potential avenue for small RNA-mediated precision medicine in cancer treatment.
Designing the evaluation model of evidence-based performance in Tehran medical sciences educational hospitals
Authors: Azamakhlaghi Atoosa , Alimohammadzadeh Khalil , Hosseini Seyed Mojtaba , Maher Ali , Jafari Mehrnoosh
Published: September 2022

Background
Evidence-based performance (EBP) helps to make decisions in relation to providing and/or promoting healthcare via integrating the best evidences. It is important to know the factors affecting the EBP. This study was conducted to design a comprehensive model for the EBP in 14 hospitals in Tehran medical sciences educational.
Methods
The statistical population was including 6208 staff in the Medical Sciences of Tehran and 362 people were selected using Cochran’s formula. Semi-structured interviews were performed and a self-questionnaire was designed for EBP, clinical effectiveness, self-requirements, strategic planning, organizational mission statement, patient-centered, empowering human resources, satisfaction, accountability governance, supportive services, employee-oriented, quality and safety of services, management of hospital and responsibility. The data were analyzed by Smart PLS software.
Results
The results showed that clinical effectiveness (coefficient = 0.303, T = 3.344), employee requirements (coefficient = 0.317, T = 3.626), strategic planning (coefficient = 0.279, T = 2.738), organization's mission statement (coefficient = 0.391, T = 4.54), patient-centered (coefficient = 0.341, T = 3.544), human resource empowerment (coefficient = 0.289, T = 2.997), satisfaction (coefficient = 0.374, T = 3.99), accountability governance (coefficient = 0.303, T = 3.049), support services (coefficient = 0.707, T = 9.08), employee-oriented (coefficient = 0.356, T = 3.649), service quality and safety (coefficient = 0.459, T = 6.589), hospital management (coefficient = 0.317, T = 3.586) and central employee (coefficient = 0.515, T = 7.404) had positive significant effects on the EBP (P < 0.01).
Conclusions
In conclusion, all the variables had significant effects on the EBP and must be considered to improve the EBP.