bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical in Vitro and Finite Element Study On Different Sagittal Alignment Postures of the Lumbar Spine During Multiaxial Daily Motion
Authors: Wilmanns Nadja , Beckmann Agnes , Nicolini Luis Fernando , Herren Christian , Sobottke Rolf , Hildebrand Frank , Siewe Jan , Kobbe Philipp , Markert Bernd , Stoffel Marcus
Published: November 2021

Lumbar Lordotic correction (LLC), the gold standard treatment for Sagittal Spinal malalignment (SMA), and its effect on sagittal balance have been critically discussed in recent studies. This paper assesses the biomechanical response of the spinal components to LLC as an additional factor for the evaluation of LLC.

Human lumbar spines (L2L5) were loaded with combined bending moments in Flexion (Flex)/Extension (Ex) or Lateral Bending (LatBend) and Axial Rotation (AxRot) in a physiological environment. We examined the dependency of AxRot range of motion (RoM) on the applied bending moment. The results were used to validate a Finite Element (FE) model of the lumbar spine. With this model, the biomechanical response of the intervertebral discs (IVD) and facet joints under daily motion was studied for different sagittal spinal alignment (SA) postures, simulated by a motion in Flex/Ex direction.

Applied bending moments decreased AxRot RoM significantly (all P<0.001). A stronger decline of AxRot RoM for Ex than for Flex direction was observed (all P<0.0001). Our simulated results largely agreed with the experimental data (all R2>0.79). During daily motion, the IVD was loaded higher with increasing lumbar lordosis (LL) for all evaluated values at L2L3 and L3L4 and posterior Annulus Stress (AS) at L4L5 (all P<0.0476).

The results of this study indicate that LLC with large extensions of LL may not always be advantageous regarding the biomechanical loading of the IVD. This finding may be used to improve the planning process of LLC treatments.
Continuum Thermodynamics of Constrained Reactive Mixtures
Authors: Ateshian Gerard A. , Zimmerman Brandon K.
Published: November 2021

Mixture theory models continua consisting of multiple constituents with independent motions. In constrained mixtures, all constituents share the same velocity but they may have different reference configurations. The theory of constrained reactive mixtures was formulated to analyze growth and remodeling in living biological tissues. It can also reproduce and extend classical frameworks of damage mechanics and viscoelasticity under isothermal conditions, when modeling bonds that can break and reform. This study focuses on establishing the thermodynamic foundations of constrained reactive mixtures under more general conditions, for arbitrary reactive processes where temperature varies in time and space. By incorporating general expressions for reaction kinetics, it is shown that the residual dissipation statement of the Clausius–Duhem inequality must include a reactive power density, while the axiom of energy balance must include a reactive heat supply density. Both of these functions are proportional to the molar production rate of a reaction, and they depend on the chemical potentials of the mixture constituents. We present novel formulas for the classical thermodynamic concepts of energy of formation and heat of reaction, making it possible to evaluate the heat supply generated by reactive processes from the knowledge of the specific free energy of mixture constituents as well as the reaction rate. We illustrate these novel concepts with mixtures of ideal gases, and isothermal reactive damage mechanics and viscoelasticity, as well as reactive thermoelasticity. This framework facilitates the analysis of reactive tissue biomechanics and physiological and biomedical engineering processes where temperature variations cannot be neglected.
Serpentinite-derived slab fluids control the oxidation state of the subarc mantle
Authors: Zhang Yuxiang , Gazel Esteban , Gaetani Glenn A. , Klein Frieder
Published: November 2021

Incorporation of variable amounts of oxidizing slab fluids leads to globally heterogeneous oxidation state of the subarc mantle.
Organic Constituents and Biota in the Urban Atmospheric Solid Aerosol: Potential Effects on Urban Soils
Authors: Prokof’eva T. V. , Shoba S. A. , Lysak L. V. , Ivanova A. E. , Glushakova A. M. , Shishkov V. A. , Lapygina E. V. , Shilaika P. D. , Glebova A. A.
Published: November 2021

The main components of solid atmospheric aerosol are soil and rock particles raised from the earth’s surface by wind erosion, and primary biological aerosol particles. In the composition of atmospheric aerosol, many pollutants, both mineral and organic, appear in areas with intensive human activity. Summer dust (solid atmospheric fallouts) that fell out of atmosphere was collected at two sites in Moscow (the territory of the Leo Tolstoy Museum-Estate in Khamovniki and the Botanical Garden of the Biological Faculty of Moscow State University). Morphological and microbiological studies were carried out in order to characterize the composition of the organic part of urban solid atmospheric fallouts and its possible impact on soils and the urban ecosystem as a whole. It has been found that the composition of the organic part of the samples was identical and included: the representatives of aeroplankton and other particles of biological origin, and also fragments of oil films, plastic fibers, carbon particles, etc., which indicated the hydrocarbon and microplastic pollution brought from the atmosphere. The composition of the studied groups of microorganisms in atmospheric fallouts and in urban soils was similar and indicated close ecological links between urban dust aerosol and soils. The biomass of the studied groups of microorganisms of atmospheric solids was dominated by fungi, many of which are potentially pathogenic and allergenic organisms. Apparently, atmospheric solid aerosols are carriers of microbiological pollution associated with animal feces in the city. The presence of such particles in the air indicates insufficient soil activity as a “bacterial filter”.
Evaluating a complex intervention addressing ability to perform activities of daily living among persons with chronic conditions: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (ABLE)
Authors: Hagelskjær Vita , Nielsen Kristina Tomra , von Bulow Cecilie , Oestergaard Lisa Gregersen , Graff Maud , Wæhrens Eva Ejlersen
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The need to develop and evaluate interventions, addressing problems performing activities of daily living (ADL) among persons with chronic conditions, is evident. Guided by the British Medical Research Council’s guidance on how to develop and evaluate complex interventions, the occupational therapy programme (ABLE) was developed and feasibility tested. The aim of this protocol is to report the planned design and methods for evaluating effectiveness, process and cost-effectiveness of the programme.

Methods and analysis

The evaluation is designed as a randomised controlled trial with blinded assessors and investigators. Eighty participants with chronic conditions and ADL problems are randomly allocated to ABLE or usual occupational therapy. Data for effectiveness and cost-effectiveness evaluations are collected at baseline (week 0), post intervention (week 10) and follow-up (week 26). Coprimary outcomes are self-reported ADL ability (ADL-Interview (ADL-I) performance) and observed ADL motor ability (Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS)). Secondary outcomes are perceived satisfaction with ADL ability (ADL-I satisfaction); and observed ADL process ability (AMPS). Explorative outcomes are occupational balance (Occupational Balance Questionnaire); perceived change (Client-Weighted Problems Questionnaire) and general health (first question of the MOS 36-item Short Form Survey Instrument). The process evaluation is based on quantitative data from registration forms and qualitative interview data, collected during and after the intervention period. A realist evaluation approach is applied. A programme theory expresses how context (C) and mechanisms (M) in the programme may lead to certain outcomes (O), in so-called CMO configurations. Outcomes in the cost-effectiveness evaluation are quality-adjusted life years (EuroQool 5-dimension) and changes in ADL ability (AMPS, ADL-I). Costs are estimated from microcosting and national registers.

Ethics and dissemination

Danish Data Protection Service Agency approval: Journal-nr.: P-2020-203. The Ethical Committee confirmed no approval needed: Journal-nr.: 19 045 758. Dissemination for study participants, in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04295837
Impact of a public health intervention for active surveillance and mitigation of SARS-CoV-2 in a district from Buenos Aires province, Argentina: a descriptive epidemiological study
Authors: Crudo Favio , Fernández Mariana , Rodríguez Fermepín Marcelo , Entrocassi Andrea Carolina , Cardone Karina Angela , Spina Markmann Fernando , Periago Maria Victoria , Chuit Roberto , Abril Marcelo Claudio
Published: November 2021

Background

The first case of SARS-CoV-2 was reported in Argentina on 3 March 2020. Measures to limit the spread of the virus were implemented, including complete lockdown (26 March). Nonetheless, the virus spread throughout the country, with a first peak of almost a million cases in October. On 30 November, the government’s recommendation switched from social, preventive and compulsory isolation, to social, preventive and compulsory distancing.

Objectives

To describe a tailored public health strategy to mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and determine its behaviour in San Antonio de Areco district from Buenos Aires province (Argentina) through a private–public association.

Design, setting and participants

Surveillance of the virus was performed with the local healthcare system, through early identification of cases and the systematic study of each infected individual and contact, regardless of symptomatology, using telemedicine and a COVID-19-specific outpatient clinic. Real-time PCR was used for detection using both individual and pooled samples, with a 12-hour turnaround time.

Results

Up to 30 November, a total of 2426 suspected cases were analysed and 578 were confirmed. Surveillance of health personnel and at-risk populations proved effective, mitigating viral spread. Pooling samples allowed reduction of operator time, helped reduce costs, and allowed detection of both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases.

Conclusion

After 8 months of protocol implementation, the strategy to intensively survey groups at higher epidemiological risk and the systematic search for asymptomatic cases with the incorporation of pooled PCR for diagnosis, in combination with individual testing, is an efficient and viable option in populations with similar characteristics, in the frame of social isolation.
COVID-19 outcomes among adult patients treated with long-term opioid therapy for chronic non-cancer pain in the USA: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tuan Wen-Jan , Spotts Hannah , Zgierska Aleksandra E , Lennon Robert P
Published: November 2021

Objective

Patients treated with long-term opioid therapy (LTOT) are known to have compromised immune systems and respiratory function, both of which make them particularly susceptible to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The objective of this study was to assess the risk of developing severe clinical outcomes among COVID-19 non-cancer patients on LTOT, compared with those without LTOT.

Design and data sources

A retrospective cohort design using electronic health records in the TriNetX research database.

Participants and setting

418 216 adults diagnosed with COVID-19 in January–December 2020 from 51 US healthcare organisations: 9558 in the LTOT and 408 658 in the control cohort. They did not have cancer diagnoses; only a small proportion might have been treated with opioid maintenance for opioid use disorder.

Results

Patient on LTOT had a higher risk ratio (RR) than control patients to visit an emergency department (RR 2.04, 95% CI 1.93 to 2.16) and be hospitalised (RR 2.91, 95% CI 2.69 to 3.15). Once admitted, LTOT patients were more likely to require intensive care (RR 3.65, 95% CI 3.10 to 4.29), mechanical ventilation (RR 3.47, 95% CI 2.89 to 4.15) and vasopressor support (RR 5.28, 95% CI 3.70 to 7.53) and die within 30 days (RR 1.96, 95% CI 1.67 to 2.30). The LTOT group also showed increased risk (RRs from 2.06 to 3.98, all significant to 95% CI) of more-severe infection (eg, cough, dyspnoea, fever, hypoxaemia, thrombocytopaenia and acute respiratory distress syndrome). Statistically significant differences in several laboratory results and other vital signs appeared clinically negligible.

Conclusion

COVID-19 patients on LTOT were at higher risk of increased morbidity, mortality and healthcare utilisation. Interventions to reduce the need for LTOT and to increase compliance with COVID-19 protective measures may improve outcomes and reduce healthcare cost in this population. Prospective studies need to confirm and refine these findings.
Development of an optimal grocery list based on actual intake from a cross-sectional study of First Nations adults in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Batal Malek , Kenny Tiff-Annie , Johnson-Down Louise , Ing Amy , Fediuk Karen , Sadik Tonio , Chan Hing Man , Willows Noreen
Published: November 2021

A multi-stage sampling strategy selected 1387 on-reserve First Nations adults in Ontario. Foods from a 24-hour dietary recall were assigned to the 100 most common food groups for men and women. Nutrients from market foods (MF) and traditional foods (TF) harvested from the wild as well as MF costs were assigned based on the proportions of total grams consumed. Linear programming was performed imposing various constraints to determine whether it was possible to develop diets that included the most popular foods while meeting Institute of Medicine guidelines. Final models were obtained for both sexes with the top 100 food groups consumed while limiting the nutrient-poor foods to no more than the actual observed intake. These models met all nutrient constraints for men but those for dietary fibre, linoleic acid, phosphorus, and potassium were removed for women. MF costs were obtained from community retailers and online resources. A grocery list was then developed and MF were costed for a family of 4. The grocery list underestimated the actual weekly food cost because TF was not included. Contemporary observed diets deviated from healthier historic First Nations diets. A culturally appropriate diet would include more traditional First Nations foods and fewer MF.

Novelty: Linear programming is a mathematical approach to evaluating the diets of First Nations. The grocery list is representative of food patterns within Ontario First Nations and can be used as an alternative to the nutritious food basket used for public health food costing.
Transgenerational impact of topical steroid application on superoxide dismutase activities of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis in rats
Authors: Polat Seher , Caner Armağan
Published: November 2021

Topical steroids (TS) have been widely prescribed since the 1950s. This study investigated for the first time the transgenerational effects of TS on the antioxidant mechanism of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, both in prenatal and infancy. Three generations (F1, F2, and F3) and prenatal group (P) were investigated in both sexes with two different time points; P45th and P75th day were accepted as puberty and early adulthood, respectively. Clobetasol propionate 0.05% was used as TS. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to expressional analyses of Sod1, Sod2, and Sod3 genes in the HPA tissues. The Sod mRNA expression of the HPA belonging to P and F1 groups revealed similar results in both genders. The downregulation in the adrenal Sod level was determined in P and F1, F2, and F3 generations in both genders, especially in females (p < 0.05). The Sod activities in the pituitary of all groups were downregulated in female rats (p < 0.05). Interestingly, in male rats, Sod2 and Sod3 were not expressed in the pituitary compared with the control on the day P45, while Sod2 and Sod3 expressions were determined in all the groups on day P75. Sod1 overexpression was found in pituitary and hypothalamus of males in the F3 generation. This study showed that TS applied in infancy had a transgenerational adverse effect on antioxidant defense mechanisms, especially in the adrenal gland.
Irisin relaxes rat thoracic aorta: MEK1/2 signaling pathway, KV channels, SKCa channels, and BKCa channels are involved in irisin-induced vasodilation
Authors: Demirel Sadettin , Sahinturk Serdar , Isbil Naciye , Ozyener Fadil
Published: November 2021

This study investigated the effects of irisin on vascular smooth muscle contractility in rat thoracic aorta, and the hypothesis that mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK1/2) signaling pathway, voltage-gated potassium (KV) channels, small-conductance calcium-activated potassium (SKCa) channels, and large-conductance calcium-activated potassium (BKCa) channels may have roles in these effects. Isometric contraction-relaxation responses of isolated thoracic aorta rings were measured with an organ bath model. The steady contraction was induced with 10–5 M phenylephrine (PHE), and then the concentration-dependent responses of irisin (10−9−10−6 M) were examined in endothelium-intact and -denuded rat thoracic aortas. Also, the effects of irisin incubations on PHE-mediated contraction and acetylcholine (ACh) – mediated relaxation were studied. Irisin exerted the vasorelaxant effects in both endothelium-intact and -denuded aortic rings at concentrations of 10–8, 10–7, and 10–6 M compared with the control groups (p < 0.001). Besides, pre-incubation of aortic rings with irisin (10 nM, 100 nM, or 1 µM for 30 min) augmented ACh-mediated (10–9–10–5) vasodilation in PHE-precontracted thoracic aorta segments but did not modulate PHE-mediated (10–9–10–5) contraction. In addition, MEK1/2 inhibitor U0126, KV channel blocker XE-991, SKCa channel blocker apamin, and BKCa channel blocker tetraethylammonium (TEA) incubations significantly inhibited the irisin-induced relaxation responses. In conclusion, the first physiological findings were obtained regarding the functional relaxing effects of irisin in rat thoracic aorta. The findings demonstrated that irisin induces relaxation responses in endothelium-intact and (or) endothelium-denuded aortic rings in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, this study is the first to report that irisin-induced relaxation responses are related to the activity of the MEK1/2 pathway, KV channels, and calcium-activated K+ (SKCa and BKCa) channels.
Ultralight axions versus primordial black holes
Authors: Corianò Claudio , Frampton Paul H. , Kim Jihn E.
Published: November 2021

We reconsider entropy arguments which have been previously argued to support the idea that the dark matter constituents are primordial black holes with many solar masses. It has recently been shown that QCD axions which solve the strong CP problem may have masses [Formula: see text] in the extended range [Formula: see text]. Ultralight axions provide so many degrees of freedom that their entropy can exceed that of primordial black holes. This suggests that ultralight axions are more suited than primordial black holes to be constituents of dark matter.
Preparation of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 in Hospital Radiopharmacy: Convenient Formulation of a Clinical Dose Using a Single‐Vial Freeze‐Dried PSMA‐617 Kit Developed In‐House
Authors: Guleria Mohini , Amirdhanayagam Jeyachitra , Sarma Haladhar D. , Rallapeta Ramya Priya , Krishnamohan V. S. , Nimmagadda Ajit , Ravi Parthasarathy , Patri Sailaja , Kalawat Tekchand , Das Tapas
Published: November 2021

Objective. In the recent time, endoradionuclide therapy for metastatic castration‐resistant prostate carcinoma employing 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 has yielded encouraging results and several clinical trials with the agent are currently ongoing. Routine preparation of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 patient doses can be made simpler and convenient, if the ingredients essential for radiolabeling are made available in a ready‐to‐use lyophilized form. Methods. PSMA‐617 freeze‐dried kit was formulated and used for the preparation of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 clinical dose with high radiochemical purity using low/medium specific activity 177Lu. Detailed radiochemical studies were performed to determine the maximum activity and volume of 177LuCl3, which can be added in the kit for the formulation of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617. Studies were also performed to determine the shelf life of the kit to ensure its long‐term usage. Studies were performed in buffer as well as human serum medium to determine the stability of the 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 complex after storing in respective media up to 7 days postpreparation. About ten patient doses of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 were administered, and posttherapy scans were acquired. Results. The formulated freeze‐dried kit of PSMA‐617 could be radiolabeled with an average percentage radiochemical purity > 98.53 ± 0.38. The freeze‐dried kit was found suitable for tolerating up to 0.5 mL of 177LuCl3 (in 0.01 N HCl) and specific activity of 555 MBq/μg (15 mCi/μg) for the preparation of the patient dose of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617. The 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 complex prepared using the freeze‐dried kit of PSMA‐617 was observed to maintain % radiochemical purity (RCP) of 96.74 ± 0.87 and 94.81 ± 2.66, respectively, even after storing up to 7 days in buffer and human serum, respectively. 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 prepared using the in‐house formulated freeze‐dried kit of PSMA‐617 exhibited accumulation in metastatic lesions picked up in a pretherapy PET scan. Reduction in number as well as size of lesions was observed in posttherapy scans acquired after two months of administering the first therapeutic dose of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617. Conclusions. The freeze‐dried kit of PSMA‐617 could be used for the preparation of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 with high radiochemical purity (>98%) in a reproducible manner. 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 prepared using the developed kit was successfully evaluated in patients suffering from metastatic prostate cancer.
Investigation of Light Parameters on Image Quality and Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Fikadu Boka , Bekele Bulcha , Jule Leta Tesfaye , Degefa Anatol , Nagaprasad N. , Ramaswamy Krishnaraj
Published: November 2021

In this work, image quality and optical coherence tomography were studied. The results of the study show that there is a very significant difference between ultrasound and optical coherence tomography to produce an image with a different wave. To understand this, we studied the basic principle of optical coherence tomography in the Michelson interferometer using monochromatic and broadband sources. Time-domain and spectral-domain measurements, which exist at the detector level, are briefly described using a glass sample. The time-domain signal strength of the Michelson interferometer using a broadband source is a Gaussian envelope.
Pursuing Historical Truth: The Discourse of History Teachers in Teaching the History of 30 September Movement in Indonesia
Authors: Djono  , Abidin Nur Fatah , Salimi Moh
Published: November 2021

The most controversial issue in history teaching in Indonesia is the history of the 30 September Movement. History teachers have to deal with seven versions of the narrative presented in history textbooks and a bunch of pseudohistories invented by students from the Internet and social media outlets. This research analyzes the discourse of history teachers in teaching the history of the 30 September Movement in Indonesia. Critical discourse analysis based on the socio-cognitive approach was used to analyze the perception and attitudes of 25 history teachers in five cities in Indonesia. The findings of the research show two typologies of history teachers in dealing with the history of the 30 September Movement. The first is the conformist history teachers who try to accept and confirm the official history but feel confused when dealing with other narratives. The second is the objectivist history teachers who try to criticize the official narrative but are afraid to express it in the learning process. They tend to believe in one narrative to be the historical truth that closely relates to the narratives in history textbooks. Based on the findings, it can be pointed out that history teachers need an appropriate pedagogical approach that accommodates multiple narratives in teaching controversial histories such as the history of the 30 September Movement.
Apparent Molecular Weight Distributions for Investigating Aging in Polymer-Modified Bitumen
Authors: Cappello Miriam , Filippi Sara , Hung Yvong , Losa Massimo , Polacco Giovanni
Published: November 2021

The oxidative aging of bituminous binders affects the performance and durability of pavements. In the case of polymer-modified binders, aging involves both bitumen and polymers and has a strong impact on the whole architecture of the material. Rheology may help in understanding these structural changes, and interesting information may be obtained by analysing the evolution of apparent molecular weight distributions. This was demonstrated with a bituminous binder modified with a poly(styrene-butadiene) block copolymer and subjected to prolonged artificial aging. Isothermal frequency sweep tests were used to construct master curves of the phase angle and magnitude of the complex modulus. The master curves were then used to calculate relaxation spectra and apparent molecular weight distributions of the binders, as well as simulated temperature sweep tests. A comparison of the behaviour of the base and modified bitumen highlighted the role of the polymer in aging. Polymer degradation significantly damages the elastomeric network, yet the residual polymer chains still interact with the bitumen molecules and reduce their oxidative aging. The apparent molecular weight distributions were deconvoluted to create an aging index specifically developed for polymer-modified bitumen.
A Comparative Study of Two Types of Implantation Surgery Methods for Implantable Collamer Lenses
Authors: Liu Hao , Dong Denghao , Chen Chunlin , Ye Jian
Published: November 2021

Purpose. To investigate the effects of two different surgical methods of implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation on the operation time, visual outcomes, corneal endothelial cell count, and intraocular pressure (IOP). Methods. This was a contralateral eye comparison study, a total of 192 eyes from 96 patients were included, and the two eyes from the same patient were randomly assigned to two groups (group 1 and group 2, with 96 eyes in each group). In group 1, after making the corneal incision, ophthalmic viscosurgical devices (OVDs) were first injected into the anterior chamber followed by ICL implantation. In group 2, the ICL was first implanted into the anterior chamber followed by OVDs injection. The operation time, uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity, spherical equivalent, corneal endothelial cell count, and IOP were recorded and analyzed. Results. The operative time in group 1 was significantly longer than that in group 2 (

P

 = 0.002 < 0.05). There were significant differences between IOP measured 2 hours following surgery of the two groups (

P

 = 0.026 < 0.05), Furthermore, the rate of IOP change 2 hours following the operation was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (

P

 = 0.019 < 0.05). There were significant differences in the anterior chamber angle 2 hours after surgery compared with that before surgery in both groups (

P

 = 0.014 < 0.05 and

P

 = 0.029 < 0.05, respectively). No significant differences were observed in the other parameters measured (all

P

 > 0.05). Conclusion. The two ICL implantation methods had similar clinical outcomes and effects on the corneal endothelial cell count. Additionally, the implantation of an intraocular lens prior to injecting OVDs reduces the operation time and lowers the rate of IOP rise in the early postoperative period, making it safe and effective for ICL implantation.
Endotoxin Triggers Tumor Initiation Events in Nontumorigenic Breast Epithelial Cells and Enhances Invasion-Related Phenotype in Pretumorigenic and Tumorigenic Breast Epithelial Cells
Authors: Yassine Farah , Fostok Sabreen F. , Al Deen Nataly Naser , Talhouk Rabih S.
Published: November 2021

Inflammation is associated with the development of several cancers, including breast cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms driving breast cancer initiation or enhancement by inflammation are yet to be deciphered. Hence, we opted to investigate the role of inflammation in initiating and enhancing tumor-like phenotypes in nontumorigenic, pretumorigenic, and tumorigenic breast epithelial cells. Noncytotoxic endotoxin (ET) concentrations capable of inducing an inflammatory phenotype were determined for the different cell lines. Results showed that short-term ET exposure upregulated matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity in nontumorigenic mammary epithelial cells of mouse (SCp2) and human origins (HMT-3522 S1; S1) and upregulated inflammatory mediators including nitric oxide (NO) and interleukin 1-β in tumorigenic human breast cells (MDA-MB-231), all in a dose-dependent manner. Long-term ET treatment, but not short-term, triggered the migration of SCp2 cells, and proliferation and migration of tumorigenic human breast cells MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Both short- and long-term ET exposures preferentially enhanced the invasion of pretumorigenic S1-connexin 43 knockout (Cx43-KO S1) cells compared to their nontumorigenic S1 counterparts. Moreover, both ET exposures disrupted lumen formation and apicolateral distribution of β-catenin in 3D cultures of S1 cells. In conclusion, ET treatment at concentrations that elicited inflammatory phenotype triggered tumor initiation events in nontumorigenic and pretumorigenic breast cells, and increased tumorigenicity of breast cancer cells. Our findings highlight the role of inflammation in enhancing migration, invasion, and loss of normal 3D morphology and suggest that such inflammatory insults can “add injury” to pretumorigenic and tumorigenic breast epithelial cells.
Clinical Characteristics of Lamellar Macular Hole Subtypes: Degenerative and Tractional
Authors: Kim Joseph , Min Joon Ki , Kim Se Young , Yoon Myung Hun , Chin Hee Seung
Published: November 2021

Purpose. To analyze clinical parameters of two subtypes of lamellar macular hole (LMH): degenerative and tractional. Methods. This retrospective chart review study included patients monitored for more than 6 months after the initial diagnosis of LMH from January 2011 to January 2018. LMH was classified in two subtypes: degenerative and tractional. The following parameters between both subtypes were assessed: central subfield thickness (CST), maximum inner diameter (MID), maximum outer diameter (MOD), MID/MOD ratio, inner and outer segment (IS/OS) junction disruption, residual retinal thickness (RRT), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), anatomical progression rate, and percentage of patients undergoing surgery. Results. This study included 51 eyes with a mean follow-up period of 18.94 months: 33 eyes with tractional LMH and 18 eyes with degenerative LMH. MID was not significantly different between both subtypes but MOD was significantly greater in tractional LMH than degenerative types (tractional, 1131.6 μm; degenerative, 708.9 μm;

p

 < 0.001). The MID were significantly increased in degenerative eyes, while the tractional eyes featured a significant increase in MOD. BCVA was not significantly different between both subtypes at baseline and the last follow-up. Epiretinal membrane presence was significantly different between the two subtypes (tractional, 96.9%; degenerative, 22.2%;

p

 < 0.001). Ellipsoid defect and rate of receiving surgery were not significantly different between both subtypes. The anatomical progression rate in tractional eyes (81.8%) was significantly higher than that of degenerative LMH (27.7%) (

p

 = 0.010). The SFCT was correlated to anatomical progression in the tractional LMH (correlation coefficient = 0.351,

p

 = 0.049) but not in the degenerative LMH. During the follow-up period, 4 eyes (22.2%) of the degenerative LMH and 11 eyes (33.3%) of the tractional LMH underwent surgery. Conclusions. We found that greater SFCT at baseline was correlated to anatomical progression of tractional LMH. Therefore, it is expected that SFCT could be used as a biomarker to predict anatomical progression in tractional LMH.
E-Health System Characteristics, Medical Performance, and Healthcare Quality at Jordan’s Health Centers
Authors: Alazzam Malik Bader , Al Khatib Husam , Mohammad Walid Theib , Alassery Fawaz
Published: November 2021

This research explores how e-health systems’ features (information quality, quality of the system, usability perceived, and perceived usefulness) contribute to improving medical personnel performance in medical centers, patient care, and physician-patient interactions in Jordan. The objective is to evaluate a single integrated model consisting of the technology acceptance model. This study used the logical research method and approach. A collection of data from 212 medical personnel working in 19 healthcare facilities throughout Jordan were gathered. To analyze the data collected and test the hypotheses of the research, a partially square/structural equation modeling method has been employed. The study found that the health information system (HIS) information quality has a direct and indirect beneficial effect on the performance of the staff, beneficial effects on patient care alone, and only favorable, indirect effects on the doctor-patient relationship. On the contrary, system quality was shown to influence directly and indirectly and to have a direct and indirect beneficial effect both on the connection between doctors and patients. Remember that the HIS has accessibility, speed, and mistake detection and avoids error issues. These shortcomings are suggested to be rectified in conjunction with improved user perception towards easy usage and utilization of the system.
Experimental and Computational Approaches for the Structural Study of Novel Ca-Rich Zeolites from Incense Stick Ash and Their Application for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Yadav Virendra Kumar , Choudhary Nisha , Ali Daoud , Gnanamoorthy G. , Inwati Gajendra Kumar , Almarzoug Mohammed HA. , Kumar Gokhlesh , Khan Samreen Heena , Solanki Mitesh B.
Published: November 2021

At present, chemical Si/Al sources are mainly used as precursor materials for the manufacturing of zeolites. Such precursor materials are quite expensive for commercial synthesis. Here, we have reported the synthesis of Ca-based zeolite from incense stick ash waste by the alkali-treatment method for the first time. Incense stick ash (ISA) was used as a precursor material for the synthesis of low Si zeolites by the alkali-treatment method. The as-synthesized zeolites were characterized by various instruments like particle size analyzer (PSA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), electron diffraction spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). FTIR and XRD helped in the identification of the microstructure and crystalline nature of the zeolites and also confirmed the synthesis of Ca-based zeolite with two thetas at 25.7°. The microscopic analysis by FESEM and TEM exhibited that the size of synthesized Ca-rich zeolites varies from 200 to 700 nm and they are aggregated and cuboidal in shape. Additionally, structural, electronic, and density of states’ characteristics of gismondine (Ca2Al4Si4O16·9H2O) structures were evaluated by computational simulations (first principle, density functional theorem). The structural optimization of structures was carried out in the first stage under the lowest condition of total energy and forces acting on atoms for the lattice constant, as well as the available experimental and theoretical findings. The present research approach predicted the transformation of ISA waste into a value-added mineral, i.e., zeolite, which was further used for the removal of both heavy metals and alkali metals from fly ash-based wastewater using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES).
Truncated WT1 Protein Isoform Expression Is Increased in MCF-7 Cells with Long-Term Estrogen Depletion
Authors: Santiago Saavedra-Alonso , Pablo Zapata-Benavides , Edgar Mendoza-Gamboa , Karina Chavez-Escamilla Ana , Mariela Arellano-Rodríguez , Cristina Rodriguez-Padilla
Published: November 2021

Background. The wt1 gene codes for a transcription factor that presents several protein isoforms with diverse biological properties, capable of positively and negatively regulating genes involved in proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. WT1 protein is overexpressed in more than 90% of breast cancer; however, its role during tumor progression is still unknown. Methodology. In this work, we analyzed the expression of WT1 isoforms in several breast cancer cells with different tumor marker statuses and an in vitro assay using MCF-7 cells cultured with long-term estrogen depletion (MCF-7 LTED cells) with the finality to mimic the process of switching from hormone-dependent to hormone-independent. Moreover, growth kinetics, sensitivity to tamoxifen, and relative expression analysis of ER and Her2/neu were performed. Results. Initially, the expression of 52-54 kDa protein isoform of WT1 in the breast cancer cell line ER (+) was detected by western blot and was absent in ER (-), and the 36-38 kDa protein isoform of WT1 was detected in all cell lines analyzed. The analysis of alternative splicing by RT-PCR shows that the 17AA (+)/KTS (-) isoform of WT1 was the most frequent in the four cell lines analyzed. In vitro, the MCF-7 cells in the estrogen depletion assay show an increase in the expression of the 52-54 kDa isoform of WT1 in the first 48 hours, and this was maintained until week 13, and later, this expression was decreased, and the 36-38 kDa isoform of WT1 did not show change during the first 48 hours but from week 1 showed an increase of expression, and this remained until week 27. Growth kinetic analysis showed that MCF-7 LTED cells presented a 1.4-fold decrease in cellular proliferation compared to MCF-7 cells cultured under normal conditions. In addition, MCF-7 LTED cells showed a decrease in sensitivity to the antiproliferative effect of tamoxifen (

p
≤
0.05

). Samples collected until week 57 analyzed by qRT-PCR showed an increase in the relative expression of the Her2/neu and ER. Conclusions. Modulation of protein isoforms showed differential expression of WT1 isoforms dependent on estrogen receptor. The absence of 52-54 kDa and the presence of the 36-38 kDa protein isoform of WT1 were detected in ER-negative breast cancer cell lines classified as advanced stage cells. Long-term estrogen depletion assay in MCF-7 cells increased the expression of the 36-38 kDa isoform and reduced the 52-54 kDa isoform, and these cells show an increase in the expression of tumor markers of ER and Her2/neu. MCF-7 LTED cells showed low proliferation and insensitivity to tamoxifen compared to MCF-7 cells in normal conditions. These results support the theory about the relationship of the 36-38 kDa isoform of WT1 and the absence of ER function in advanced breast cancer.
NOMA and OMA‐Based Massive MIMO and Clustering Algorithms for Beyond 5G IoT Networks
Authors: Rahman Taj , Khan Feroz , Khan Inayat , Ullah Niamat , Althobaiti Maha M. , Alassery Fawaz
Published: November 2021

The Internet of Things (IoT) has brought about various global changes, as all devices will be connected. This article examines the latest 5G solutions for enabling a massive cellular network. It further explored the gaps in previously published articles, demonstrating that to deal with the new challenges. The mobile network must use massive multiple input and output (MIMO), nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA), orthogonal multiple access (OMA), signal interference cancellation (SIC), channel state information (CSI), and clustering. Furthermore, this article has two objectives such as (1) to introduce the cluster base NOMA to reduce the computational complexity by applying SIC on a cluster, which ultimately results in faster communication and (2) to achieve massive connectivity by proposing massive MIMO with NOMA and OMA. The proposed NOMA clustering technique working principle pairs the close user with the far user; thus, it will reduce computational complexity, which was one such big dilemma in the existing articles. This will specifically help those users that are far away from the base station by maintaining the connectivity. Despite NOMA’s extraordinary benefits, one cannot deny the significance of the OMA; hence, the other objective of the proposed work is to introduce OMA with MIMO in small areas where the user is low in number, it is already in use, and quite cheap. The next important aspect of the proposed work is SIC, which helps remove interference and leads to enhancement in network performance. The simulation result has clearly stated that NOMA has gained a higher rate than OMA: current NOMA users’ power requirement (weak signal user 0.06, strong signal user 0.07), spectral efficiency ratio for P‐NOMA and C‐NOMA (21%, 5%), signal‐to‐noise ratio OMA, P‐NOMA, C‐NOMA (28, 40, 55%), and user rate pairs NOMA, OMA (7, 3), C‐NOMA, and massive MIMO NOMA SINR (4.0, 2.5).
Interpolation-Based Modeling Methodology for Efficient Aeroelastic Control of a Folding Wing
Authors: Yue Chengyu , Zhao Yonghui
Published: November 2021

The aeroelastic model of a folding wing varies with different configurations, so it actually represents a parameter-varying system. Firstly, a new approach based on interpolation of local models is proposed to generate the linear parameter-varying model of a folding wing. This model is capable of predicting the aeroelastic responses during the slow morphing process and is suitable for subsequent control synthesis. The underlying inconsistencies among local linear time-invariant (LTI) models are solved through the modal matching of structural modes and the special treatment of the rational functions in aerodynamic models. Once the local LTI models are represented in a coherent state-space form, the aeroservoelastic (ASE) model at any operating point can be immediately generated by the matrix interpolation technique. Next, based on the present ASE model, the design of a parameterized controller for suppressing the gust-induced vibration is studied. The receptance method is applied to derive fixed point controllers, and the effective independence method is adopted and modified for optimal sensor placement in variable configurations, which can avoid solving ill-conditioned feedback gains. Numerical simulation demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed interpolation-based modeling approach, and the parameterized controller exhibits a good gust mitigation effect within a wide parameter-varying range. This paper provides an effective and practical solution for modeling and control of the parameterized aeroelastic system.
Effects of Psychological Intervention on Perioperative Quality of Life and Serum PSA and FPSA Levels of Patients with Prostate Cancer Treated with Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine
Authors: Sun Xifeng , Lu Yi , Zhu Hongxia , Li Rui , Zhang Donghua , Pang Kunfang
Published: November 2021

Objective. To observe the effects of psychological intervention on the perioperative quality of life and serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and free PSA (FPSA) levels in patients with prostate cancer treated with integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine. Method. A total of 208 prostate cancer patients were selected and randomly divided into a study group with 104 cases and a control group with 104 cases. The control group received a plan of basic nursing combined with integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine, and the study group received psychological intervention on the basis of the control group. Negative emotion, pain degree, quality of life, maximum urine flow rate, residual urine volume, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and incidence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups before and after the treatment. The levels of PSA and FPSA and the long-term efficacy of the two groups of patients before and after treatment were compared. Results. After nursing, Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) score, Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) score, pain degree, maximum urine flow rate, residual urine volume, IPSS score, emotional function, social function, role function, and physical function scores of patients in two groups were decreased, and the decrease was more significant in the study group. After treatment, serum PSA and FPSA levels in the study group were obviously lower than those in the control group. The two-year cumulative survival rate of the study group was higher than that of the control group. There was no significant difference in the cognitive function score and incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups. Conclusion. Psychological intervention combined with traditional Chinese and Western medicine in the treatment of prostate cancer can effectively improve the patient’s psychological state, reduce the degree of pain in patients, improve the therapeutic effect and the quality of life of patients, and significantly reduce serum PSA and FPSA levels, which could lead to a prolonged life.
Study on the Surge-Swab Pressure considering the Effect of the Cutting Plug in Shale Drilling
Authors: Tan Tianyi , Zhang Hui , Ma Xusheng , Chen Yufei
Published: November 2021

Wellbore instability is a frequent problem of shale drilling. Accurate calculation of surge-swab pressures in tripping processes is essential for wellbore pressure management to maintain wellbore stability. However, cutting plugs formed in shale horizontal wells have not been considered in previous surge-swab pressure models. In this paper, a surge-swab pressure model considering the effect of cutting plugs is established for both open pipe string and closed pipe string conditions; In this model, the osmotic pressure of a cutting plug is analyzed. The reduction of cutting plug porosity due to shale hydration expansion and dispersion is considered, ultimately resulting in an impermeable cutting plug. A case study is conducted to analyze swab pressures in a tripping out process. The results show that, in a closed pipe condition, the cutting plug significantly increases the swab pressures below it, which increase with the decrease of cutting plug porosity and the increase of cutting plug length. Under the give condition, the swab pressure at the bottom of the well increases from 3.60 MPa to 8.82 MPa due to the cutting plug, increasing by 244.9%. In an open pipe string condition, the cutting plug affects the flow rate in the pipes and the annulus, resulting in a higher swab pressure above the cutting plug compared to a no-cutting plug annulus. The difference increases with the decrease of the porosity and the increase of the length and the measured depth of the cutting plug. Consequently, the extra surge-swab pressures caused by cutting plugs could result in wellbore pressures out of safety mud density window, whereas are ignored by previous models. The model proposes a more accurate wellbore pressure prediction and guarantees the wellbore stability in shale drilling.