bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Calcium Hydroxide Content on Pozzolanic Reaction of Calcined Clays: Their Mechanical Properties and Microstructures
Authors: Suttikul Supaluk , Ano Kanyarat , Pimraksa Kedsarin
Published: June 2021

The research aimed to investigate the effect of calcium hydroxide content on pozzolanic reaction of calcined clays. Pozzolanic reaction of calcined clay was determined in terms of its mechanical properties, phase development and microstructures. Three clay minerals (two kaolinitic clays and kaolinite-montmorillonite clay) were chosen to produce pozzolanic materials via calcination at temperature of 700 °C to allow dehydroxylation of clay minerals. Ratios of calcium hydroxide to calcined clays were varied from 0.1 to 0.5. Mixing water contents or liquid to solid ratios (0.62, 0.75 and 0.80) and curing times (7 and 28 days) were also studied. It was found that calcium aluminosilicate hydrate (stratlingite) could be formed after pozzolanic reactions of all clay minerals. The development of stratlingite agreed with the strength development showing the highest compressive strength at 26 MPa (28 days) when kaolinite-montmorillonite clay was used as pozzolanic material and the ratio of calcium hydroxide to calcined clay was 0.5.
Effect of Reduction Rate on the Recrystallization Behavior in AA3003 Aluminum Alloy Fabricated by DC Casting
Authors: Park Sung Jin , Muraishi Shinji
Published: June 2021

The recrystallization behavior of the cold-rolled AA3003 aluminum alloy with the reduction rate of 20%, 50% and 90% during annealing at the temperature ranging from 300°C to 400°C was investigated. As increasing reduction rate, the cold rolled specimens exhibit deformation bands with elongated grain microstructure consisting of straight grain boundary parallel to rolling direction. Therefore, large density of nucleation sites for recrystallization would be expected with increase of strain energy. The grain size of the cold-rolled specimens decreased with increase of reduction rate, c.f., as the rolling reduction increased to 90%, grain size along the direction normal to the sheet decreased to about 8μm in thick. When the sample annealed at 350°C for 5s, the first recrystallized grains were observed in the vicinity of the grain boundary. The relaxation and recrystallization kinetics under different annealing conditions were characterized in terms of the Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov (JMAK) model. The apparent activation energies of recrystallization for the cold-rolled specimens with reduction rate of 20%, 50% and 90% were determined as 332 kJ/mol, 239 kJ/mol and 115 kJ/mol, respectively. XRD analysis by using modified Williamson–Hall plots revealed that the tendency of the change in dislocation density is varied depending on reduction rate. These results indicate that the apparent activation energy for recrystallization and the crystallites size decrease with increase of the reduction rate, which leads to a decrease in the size of the recrystallized grains.
Effect of Detergent on Concrete prepared with Periwinkle shell as Coarse Aggregate
Authors: Ogbodo Munachiso C. , Akpabot Akpabot Ifiok
Published: June 2021

The use of the periwinkle shell in the production of lightweight concrete has been studied and accepted to be used for concrete works. Hard water containing detergent-like chemicals has been observed to be used in mixing locally produced concrete. This exploratory study is on the effect of water mixed with detergent in a concrete prepared with the periwinkle shell as a coarse aggregate. A total of 27 concrete cubes of size 150mmx150mmx150mm were prepared in the laboratory with a mix ratio of 1:2:4. A water-cement ratio of 0.4 was used with the addition of detergent at varying percentages (0%, 0.3% and 0.6). The cubes were cured in water and tested at 7days, 14days and 28days respectively. Laboratory tests, which includes bulk density, specific gravity, grain size analysis, slump and the compressive strength test was carried out on the aggregates and concrete. The periwinkle shell had a bulk density of 1440kg/m3and a specific gravity of 2.50. The workability tested revealed that the slump values increased with increase in the percentages of detergent. The compressive strength at 28days and at 0.3% and 0.6% were 12.58N/mm2 and 14.06N/mm2 respectively. It was observed that the compressive strength decreased with the addition of detergent because of the tiny air bubbles introduced into the concrete by the detergent. From the results of the study, it can safely be concluded that the use of detergent contaminated water in concrete production will reduce its compressive strength and increase its workability.
Effect of Temperature on δ-Ferrite Morphology of Carbon Steel and Austenitic Stainless Steel Welds
Authors: Nhung Le Thi , Nam Nguyen Duong , Khanh Pham Mai
Published: June 2021

δ-ferrite was formed in the weld metal when the melted metal solidified to the room temperature. The δ-ferrite morphology depended on the composition, temperature gradient and growth rate. Research on the influence of heat treatment temperature (400°C, 600°C, 900°C) on the morphology changes and the δ-ferrite content is presented in this paper using optical microscopy, SEM, TEM. The δ-ferrite concentration reduced continuously in increasing temperature (from 23.5% after welding to 11% at 900°C for 10 hours). Besides, the formation of sigma phase and carbides at 600°C were the main cause of increasing hardness values in the fusion zone. However, the heat treatment at a temperature of 900°C eliminated both the sigma phase and brittleness.
Influence of Nitriding Temperature on Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Titanium
Authors: Chen Tong , Koyama Shinji
Published: June 2021

One of the commonly used methods for the surface hardening treatment of pure titanium was nitriding. Based on the study of nitriding temperatures on the properties of the pure titanium, some conclusions can be drawn in this paper. The surface hardness of samples after nitriding was gradually increased firstly and then decreased with the processing temperature increasing. And the hardness of the diffusion layer reached the maximum value of 1792 HV when the processing temperature at 1050°C. At the same temperature, the indentation modulus also reached the maximum value of 270 GPa. The wear depth reached the minimum value at 1050°C. At different nitriding temperatures, the minimum of wear depth was 14.8 μm. In summary, when the processing temperature at 1050°C, the nitriding of pure titanium can improve the comprehensive properties.
Study on Mechanical Properties of AA6061/SiC/B4C Hybrid Nano Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Das Shubhajit , Chandrasekaran Muthumari , Samanta Sutanu
Published: June 2021

The present work investigates the mechanical characterization of aluminium alloy (AA) 6061 based hybrid nanometal matrix composites (MMCs) fabricated using conventional stir casting process. Two compositions viz., AA6061+1.5 wt.% B4C+0.5 wt.% SiC (Hybrid A) and AA6061+1.5 wt.% B4C+1.5 wt.% SiC (Hybrid B) was prepared and its mechanical properties such as microhardness, tensile, compressive, flexural and impact strength were investigated to compare with unreinforced AA6061. SiC and B4C ceramic particles (purity 99.89%) of average particle size of 50 nm were used as reinforcements. Significant enhancement in microhardness of 30.2% and 31.02% for hybrid A and B are observed respectively. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) increased by 10.72% and 16.55% for hybrid A and B respectively. Improved interaction because of the enhanced surface to volume ratio at the interface resulted in improvement of mechanical properties. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) of the fractured surface shows brittle fracture because of the incorporation of the ceramic reinforcements in the matrix material. The developed AA6061/SiC/B­4C hybrid nanocomposites show improved mechanical properties for high-performance structural applications.
Wear Characteristics of Al7075/Al2O3/SiC Hybrid Metal Matrix Nano Composites
Authors: Sreedhar N.
Published: June 2021

In the present investigation Aluminum matrix composites (AMMCs), Al7075 Alloy as matrix metal and Al2O3/SiC particles (2-8%) with an average particulate size of 20, 50 nm as strengthened material have been processed by the stir casting method. For the counter surface wear testing, a computerized pin on a wear tester was used as EN31 (58-60 HRC) steel disc and composite pin. The wear rate for the matrix metal and composites in terms of weight loss per unit sliding distance, friction coefficient, and volume loss were achieved. The composite results show better resistance to wear than matrix metal. SEM was used to investigate the microstructural characterization of worn surfaces. Sample weight loss was calculated and the change in cumulative wear loss at a sliding distance was uniform both for metal matrix as well as for composites. The wear speed for composites was also noted to be small compared to the metal matrix. In addition, experiments have shown that, with the increasing weight fraction of Al2O3/SiC and the coefficient of friction increases with increasing sliding velocity and weight fraction of Al2O3/SiC, the wear rate reduces. The wear characteristics (wear rate, coefficient of friction and wear loss) were better than those of other composites and the matrix metal with 6wt% Al2O3/SiC composites.
Sliding Wear Characteristics of Carbon Filled Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Composite against AISI 304 Stainless Steel Counterface
Authors: Chinchanikar Satish , Barade Amol , Deshpande Abhijeet
Published: June 2021

In the present work, dry sliding wear characteristics of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composite reinforced with 35% by weight carbon fiber against AISI 304 stainless steel counterface is investigated with a view to consider PTFE composite as an alternative material for automotive applications. Dry sliding experiments were performed on pin-on-disk wear testing machine varying the normal load on pin, disk rotation (rpm) and temperature correlating with the range of pressure, sliding velocity and temperature variation at reciprocating conditions of compressor. A mathematical model to predict specific wear rate in terms of pressure and temperature was developed to understand parametric effect on wear rate. Specific wear rate has been observed to decrease with increase in pressure and temperature. Although, pressure (normal load) has been observed as more significant in lowering specific wear rate than temperature, no significant benefit was observed at higher ranges of pressure. Decrease in specific wear rate with increase in normal load (pressure) can be attributed to formation of transfer film at sliding interfaces. However, it is necessary to characterize transition of formation of transfer film varying with normal load and temperature respectively.
Examining Concussion Nondisclosure in Collegiate Athletes Using a Health Disparities Framework and Consideration of Social Determinants of Health
Authors: Wallace Jessica , Beidler Erica , Register-Mihalik Johna K. , Hibbler Tamaria , Bretzin Abigail , DeMedal Spencer , Kerr Zachary Y.
Published: June 2021

Context

Limited research exists concerning the relationship between the social determinants of health (SDOHs), including race, socioeconomic status (SES), health care access and physical environment and concussion nondisclosure in collegiate athletes. However, among high school athletes, disparities have been noted, with Black athletes who attended under-resourced schools and lacked access to an athletic trainer (AT) disclosing fewer concussions.

Objective

To investigate whether concussion nondisclosure disparities existed by (1) race, (2) SES, or (3) AT health care access before college and understand the differential reasons for concussion nondisclosure between White and Black collegiate athletes.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Collegiate athletics.

Participants

A total of 735 college athletes (84.6% White, 15.4% Black).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Participants completed a questionnaire that directly assessed concussion nondisclosure, including reasons for not reporting a suspected concussion. With the premise of investigating SDOHs, race was the primary exposure of interest. The outcome of interest, nondisclosure, was assessed with a binary (yes or no) question, “Have you ever sustained a concussion that you did not report to your coach, AT, parent, teammate, or anyone else?”

Results

Among the White and Black athletes, 15.6% and 17.7%, respectively, reported a history of concussion nondisclosure. No differences were found by race for distributions of history of concussion nondisclosure (P = .57). Race was not associated with concussion nondisclosure when evaluated as an effect modification measure or confounder, and no significant associations were noted by SES or high school AT access. Differences by race for reported reasons for nondisclosure were present for “At the time, I did not think it was a concussion” (P = .045) and “I thought my teammates would think I am weak” (P = .03), with Black athletes selecting these more frequently than White athletes.

Conclusions

These data help to contextualize race and its intersection with other SDOHs that could influence concussion nondisclosure outcomes in collegiate athletes.
Return-to-Play Recommendations After COVID-19 Diagnosis in High School Athletes
Authors: Calpino Kathryn Michele , Morrissette Jaclyn D.
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed everyday life across the world and dramatically affected how athletics operate. Since the return of high school sports, high school athletic trainers are now responsible for ensuring the safe return of athletes previously diagnosed with COVID-19 to sports. Due to the relatively recent identification of this novel virus, very little is understood about the long-term effects of COVID-19 infection on the cardiac and respiratory systems. Unfortunately, due to the rapid return of athletics, limited research is available regarding how athletes respond to COVID-19 and how it may affect their ability to return to play. Therefore, high school athletes previously diagnosed with COVID-19 should undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation with their physician and complete a graduated, medically supervised return-to-play protocol.
Longitudinal Change in Myocardial Function and Clinical Parameters in Middle-Aged Subjects: A 3-Year Follow-up Study
Authors: Cho Dong-Hyuk , Joo Hyung Joon , Kim Mi-Na , Kim Hee-Dong , Lim Do-Sun , Park Seong-Mi
Published: June 2021

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is closely associated with the aging process. However, changes in metabolic conditions and cardiac function that occur in middle aged population remain unclear. We evaluated longitudinal changes in metabolic parameters and cardiac function during a 3-year period in subjects with suspected MetS.Methods: We studied 191 participants with suspected MetS at baseline and after 3 years. Anthropometric parameters, including waist circumference (WC), and metabolic parameters, including fasting blood glucose and lipid profile were measured. Conventional echocardiography with two-dimensional speckle tracking was performed.Results: Mean age was 56.2±4.4 years, and there were 97 women (50.8%). Men had increased WC and triglycerides (TG) (WC 91.2±6.8 cm vs. 84.0±8.0 cm, P<0.001; TG 184.4±116.3 mg/dL vs. 128.2±53.6 mg/dL, P<0.001), and reduced global longitudinal strain (GLS) (–15.4%±2.1% vs. –17.1%±2.0%, P<0.001) compared to women. After 3.4 years, values of WC and TG did not change in men but increased in women (all P<0.05). The absolute value of left ventricular (LV) GLS did not change in men but was reduced in women (P=0.011). Change in TG was independently associated with worsening of LV GLS only in women (standardized β, –0.309; 95% confidence interval, –0.130 to –0.009; P=0.025).Conclusion: In middle aged population, a vulnerable period for metabolic disturbance, cardiac remodeling tended to progress, which was prominent in women. Progression of adiposity and dyslipidemia after menopause may accelerate subclinical cardiac remodeling in middle-aged women. Lifestyle modification and medical interventions may help prevent further cardiac dysfunction in these subjects.
A Review on Coronavirus Disease and Potentially Active Drugs Targeting Coronavirus
Authors: Verma Tarawanti , Sinha Manish , Nitin Bansal , Yadav Shyam Raj , Shah Kamal , Chauhan Nagendra Singh
Published: June 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a virus with single positive-strand RNA, having glycoproteins projection on envelopes so reveals a halo-like appearance or corona. Coronavirus is of four types: (1) α-coronavirus (α-COV); (2) β-coronavirus (β-COV); (3) δ-coronavirus (δ-COV); and (4) γ-coronavirus (γ-COV) and belongs to family Coronaviridae and subfamily Coronavirinae. Coronaviruses are the normal pathogens that cause broad band of gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases in domestic as well as wild animals such as pigs, birds, and rodents. Coronavirus is highly infectious in case of elders for mortality rate. The elder peoples are at 2-fold higher risk as compared to the younger population and the greater part of the population dying from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is male. The virus enters into the body by the mouth, eyes, or nose, then particles march inside of the body by different pathways and affect vital organs in severe ways such as liver, heart muscle, blood vessels, kidneys, central nervous system, etc. Right now, the only solution to avoid COVID-19 infection is “precautions.” Different companies of different countries at different steps are in race to develop effective medicines for treatment and management of the same. Here, in this review, we tried to give an overview of all about SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 infection, pathophysiology, mechanisms, and various treatment trials.
Vaccine in Response to COVID-19
Authors: Quazi Sameer
Published: June 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 proved to be disastrous as it affected a large population in the period of a few months. As the virus took hold in the world, health experts paced efforts to solve the unknown nature of this threat. Besides finding short-term and sudden relief, scientists directed their efforts to provide a long-term solution for an ensuing pandemic that influenced all areas of life in unprecedented ways. The subject matter of this research involves exploring the relevant literature regarding passive immunity in fight against the virus. It is expected that different vaccine platforms such as traditional recombinant protein, macromolecule DNA and mRNA, and nonreplicating and replicating viral vectors could be helpful if utilized properly. This article is going to discuss all these platforms and recent developments regarding the formulation of the vaccine. It is going to highlight the need for the production and distribution of the medicines along with challenges that are present in this task. The facts involving social, political, and economic aftermath would also be discussed in the current research. There is no doubt that biotechnology is going to provide a sound foundation to fight with upcoming health-related challenges. Along with the exploration of this fact, the article is going to prove a case for effective collaboration among all stakeholders such as government, academia, health sector, and civil society. The mechanism of collaboration would produce safety and efficacy data with the help of many volunteers, to speed up the distribution of multiple vaccine platforms to fight against COVID-19 and to strive for a better future.
Prevalence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 among the Young People and Association Between Diabetes, Hypertension, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2
Authors: Akter Aklima , Tabassum Nafisa , Rahman Arifur
Published: June 2021

Background:

The corona virus disease-2019 (COVID-19) or corona pandemic is an outgoing pandemic caused by coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. It was first identified in Wuhan, China, and the first COVID-19 case in Bangladesh was on March 7, 2020. A retrospective research was conducted on Brahmanbaria Medical College with COVID-19-suspected patients to understand the current situation of COVID-19 in Brahmanbaria.

Methods:

A total 752 oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from COVID-19 suspected patients and reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction test was run to identify the positive cases.

Results:

We found 28.5% (n = 214) of positive cases among which 22.9% (n = 49) were diabetes mellitus patients and 20.5% (n = 46) were hypertension patients too.

Conclusion:

A total of 214 (28.5%) COVID-19 positive confirmed cases among 752 COVID-19-suspected peoples were found. The most common age group of COVID-19 patients was between 31 and 40 years, which is a matter of great concern as these patients develop different postcorona syndromes such as weakness, breathlessness, and muscles pains and cannot go back to their normal daily life as before.
Immunohistochemical Subtypes of Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas with Special Emphasis on Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Pal Gaurav , Dasgupta Senjuti , Banerjee Uma
Published: June 2021

Background:

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a heterogeneous disease with respect to etiology, morphology, immunohistochemistry, and prognosis. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is categorized into two subtypes – germinal center B-cell like (GCB) and activated B-cell like, based on the stage of B-cell differentiation. The epidemiologic profile of NHL varies from one place to another. The aim of the present study was to delineate the frequencies of different types of NHL including subtypes of DLBCL in a tertiary care center. Another objective was to determine if there is any correlation between different subtypes of DLBCL and clinicopathological parameters.

Materials and Methods:

Immunohistochemical (IHC) examination was done on paraffin blocks of patients diagnosed as NHL by histopathological examination. The patient details, type of NHL including subtype of cases of DLBCL, diagnosed by IHC, were recorded.

Results:

The mean age of the study population of 62 patients was 53 ± 14.5 years. Forty patients (65%) were male and 22 (35%) were female. The majority (56, 90%) of the NHLs were of B-cell type. DLBCL was the most common B-cell lymphoma (23, 41%). GCB subtype (12, 21%) of DLBCL was slightly more frequent than non-GCB type (11, 20%). The correlation between subtypes of DLBCL and clinicopathological parameters was not statistically significant. Peripheral T-cell lymphoma was the most common type of T-cell lymphoma. Most of the NHLs presented with nodal involvement (38, 61%).

Conclusion:

The heterogeneity of NHLs in different parts of the country makes it necessary to undertake epidemiological studies so that patient care may be improved.
The Effect of 16 Arg/Gly β2–Adrenergic Receptors Gene Polymorphism on Pulmonary Function in Asthmatic Children Treated with Nebulized Salbutamol
Authors: Mohammed Ayat Sahib , Abood Haidar Abdul Amir , Hussein Aqeel Mehdi
Published: June 2021

Background:

The β2-adrenergic receptor gene is a typical candidate for the study of genetic polymorphism, the biological relevance, and clinical consequences of polymorphisms. Many patients with asthma do not respond to β2-agonist; in addition, a wide interindividual variability in pharmacological response exists, likely because of the interaction between clinical, environmental, and genetic factors.

Methods:

A total of 80 asthmatic children, including 55 males and 25 females with acute attacks ages range between 5 and 18 years, attended the Respiratory Clinic at Karbala Pediatric Hospital, allele-specific polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine SNP of β2-adrenergic receptor gene at nucleic acid 46 (16 amino acid position).

Results:

Asthmatic children having GG genotype showed significant increase (P < 0.05) in all the recorded lung function parameter (forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC], FEV1/FVC and FEV1% predicted) after treatment with nebulized salbutamol while those having AA and AG genotypes showed significant (increase) improvement (P < 0.05) only in FEV1, FVC, and FEV1% predicted after treatment with nebulized salbutamol and showed no significant increase (P > 0.05) in FEV1/FVC ratio after treatment with nebulized salbutamol, patients having GG genotype of 16Arg/Gly SNP showed highest change (increase) in FEV1 (204.44 ± 175.35) ml and in FEV1% predicted (15.22 ± 14.75) % after treatment with nebulized salbutamol in compared with other genotypes groups, although this change is not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Asthmatic children having GG (Gly16Gly) genotype showed better improvement in lung function after nebulized salbutamol in compared with those having AA (Arg16Arg) and those having heterozygous AG (Arg16Gly) during mild-to-moderate acute asthma attacks.
Identification of a Subpopulation of Chemoresistant Cancer Cells with Adult Stem Cell Properties and Embryonic Transcription Factors in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Shaik Mahaboob Vali , Shaik Munni , Subramanyam G. , Rajasekhar G.
Published: June 2021

Background:

In South-central Asia, oral cancer ranks among the three most common types of cancer. India alone accounts for 86% of the total oral cancer figures globally. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to give rise to differentiated tumor cells and to predict tumor recurrence and metastases. This study designed to characterize the CSCs derived from oral squamous cell carcinoma and its identification of correlation with embryonic transcriptional potential.

Materials and Methods:

Tumor (microscopically ~80% of their areas occupied by tumor cells) and normal counterpart (normal paired noncancerous matched tissue) samples from each histologically confirmed cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were undertaken in this study. Isolation of stem cells using anti-CD133-positive selection. Expression levels of stem cell surface markers were assessed by flow cytometer. The immunoprofile of these markers was correlated with sex-determining region Y-box 2 (SOX-2), octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), and NANOG. The tissue samples of OSCC were studied to identify the localization pattern for CSCs using fluorescence microscopy.

Results:

Histologically, SOX-2 expression has been identified at all zones exhibiting dysplasia. Isolated CD133+ cells showed differential expression pattern with embryonic transcription factors in tumor cells but not in normal counterpart, which depicts their cancer stemness. Flow cytometry analysis exhibited that SOX-2/OCT4/CD44+with CD133 positive stemness in OSCC malignant tissues was identified to be the best marker for OSCC prediction of the disease.

Conclusion:

The isolated subpopulation CD133+ cells possess the characteristics of both stem cells and malignant tumors. The findings show that elevated levels of CD133 lead to OSCC invasiveness and metastasis, associated with the upregulation of embryonic and stemness markers. Hence, these tumors may be controlled by restricting the expression of CD133, CD44, OCT4, and SOX2 or by disrupting the molecular pathways that are altered in CSCs.
Assessing Liver Functions of Radiologic Technologists Exposed Chronically to Radiation
Authors: Alasmari Sultan Zaher , Makkawi Mohammed , Shubayr Nasser , Zaman Gaffar , Alashban Yazeed , Eisa Nashwa , Khairy Hussain , Rudiny Fuad , Afif Basma
Published: June 2021

Background:

The continued absorption of occupational radiation encounter by radiologic technologists and the potential resulting adverse effects have been a concern to the field for decades. This study investigates the risk factors of developing liver dysfunction among a selected group of radiologic technologists (RTs) to evaluates the correlation between cumulative radiation doses and liver injury.

Methods:

Only RTs who have been working in the radiology department for more than 10 years were selected for the study. The RTs and control groups were chosen based on several factors: adults, nonalcoholic, non-smoker, and have no history of hypertension or diabetes. A retrospective analysis was performed on the effective cumulative radiation dose for a selected RTs from 2009 to 2019. Fully automated biochemical analyzer was used to evaluate liver function tests. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), total bilirubin (BiL), direct BiL, indirect BiL, albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), cholesterol (CHOL), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and glucose (GLUH) were measured.

Results:

The result showed that the difference in the medians of liver biomarker GGT between control and RTs groups was statistically significant. The median of GGT in RTs group was higher than that of the control group.

Conclusions:

GGT test is a hallmark of liver function and alteration in GGT level may indicate a hepatic defect. Thus, further investigation in a large cohort to study the association between GGT elevation and chronic radiation exposure is required.
The Contribution of [18]F-Fluoro-2-Deoxy-Glucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography to the Diagnosis and Staging of Signet-Ring Cell Carcinoma of the Stomach
Authors: Tatar Selda Yilmaz , Arslan Esra
Published: June 2021

Background:

Signet ring cell carcinomas (SRCC) have been among the most common histological types of gastric cancer. In recent years, [18]F-fluoro-2-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography ([18]F-FDG-PET/CT) has been very useful for primary cancer staging and distant metastasis detection. In our study, the aim was to evaluate the diagnostic and predictive level of [18]F-FDG-PET/CT in SRCC.

Methods:

Ninetytwo patients that underwent [18]F-FDG-PET/CT procedures between 2011 and 2017 for primary staging were included in the study. The clinicopathological features and maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax) of histopathologically defined cancers were determined. Ethical approval was obtained from Istanbul Training and Research Hospital Local Ethics Committee with the date and number 04/08/2017-1048.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 58.1 ± 12.2 years. Sixtythree of the patients (75.3%) were male and 29 (24.7%) were female. According to the histopathological classification, the majority of the SRCCs were poorly differentiated and were most frequently localized in the middle and lower parts of the stomach. The mean value of [18]F-FDG uptake by [18]F-FDG-PET/CT in the primary lesions was SUVmax = 9.69 ± 7.58. The mean SUVmax (SUVmax: 7.92) measured in the patient group, 60 years and older, was found to be statistically significantly higher (p = 0.038) than the value measured in the 59 years and younger group (SUVmax: 10.26). There was a statistically significant difference between the mean SUVmax of the patients aged 60 and over and under this age group (p = 0.038). A statistically significant difference was found between the group with a positive regional LN and the mean SUVmax calculated between the group with negative regional LN (p = 0.012). A statistically significant difference was found between the group with distant organ metastasis and the negative group (p = 0.008). However, no statistically significant difference was found between tumor diameter, tumor wall thickness, localization of the tumor in the stomach, presence of distant nodal metastasis, and SUVmax calculated for histological gradients of the lesions (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Due to the advances in the diagnosis and treatment of SRCC in recent years, PET/CT may contribute to the diagnosis, staging, and prognosis determination of patients. [18]F-FDG-PET/CT demonstrated high FDG uptake in SRCC lesions. The FDG SUVmax was observed to increase significantly in patients with SRCC diagnosis of regional LN and distant organ metastasis. Studies with larger patient groups are needed to detect locally advanced and metastatic cases in SRCC patients using [18]F-FDG-PET/CT.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Pneumothorax in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Hashemian Seyed Mohammad Reza , Shafigh Navid , Erfani Raziyeh , Khoundabi Batoul , Miller James
Published: June 2021

Background:

Spontaneous pneumothorax is known as a fatal complication in patients with COVID-19. However, the exact pathogenesis of the spontaneous pneumothorax occurrence and its cause remains unknown. Accordingly, the present study examined 30 patients with acute COVID-19-induced respiratory failure who were under biphasic positive airway pressure (BIPAP) and medical ventilator machines.

Methods:

This study is a retrospective study and was performed on patients with COVID-19-induced acute respiratory failure who were admitted to the intensive care unit. The study population included 30 patients (10 patients with pneumothorax complication and 20 other patients without this complication). All study patient demographic data and device parameters (physiological parameters observed by the device) were collected and compared with each other.

Results:

Overall, 30 patients with COVID-19 and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) were selected during the 3 months from April to July 2020, with complications of spontaneous pneumothorax and emphysema detected in the collected chest X-ray images of 10 patients. In general, the results showed that p-plateau and p-peak parameters in the group with pneumothorax were significantly higher than the other group. Alternately, it was observed that static compliance for the group with pneumothorax was significantly lower than the uncomplicated group. Further, the mortality rates obtained were equal to 80% for the group with pneumothorax complication and 55% for the other group.

Conclusion:

Spontaneous pneumothorax in patients with ARDS and COVID-19 is a rare complication with a high mortality rate that occurs even in patients without intubation and patients undergoing BIPAP. Hence, if low static compliance and high pulmonary pressures are observed for patients, physicians should seek the complication diagnosis and treatment following changes in patients' symptoms.
Ameliorating and anti-inflammatory role of Balanites aegyptiaca aqueous extract on Doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats
Authors: Elkareem Hanaa F.A. , Essawy Abd El-Naby I. , Ashry Mahmoud , Badawi Manal A. , Abdel-Wahhab Khaled G.
Published: June 2021

Background and objective

Doxorubicin (Doxo) is an antibiotic that used in cancer treatment, with many complications like hepatotoxicity. The objective of this study was to explore the ameliorative effect of Balanites aegyptiaca aqueous extract (BAE) against Doxo-induced hepatotoxicity in male rats.

Materials and methods

Adult male Wistar rats (140–160 g) were randomly divided into six groups (10 animals each) as follows: group I, normal rats act as a control group; group II, rats ingested with BAE (200 mg/kg) for 4 weeks; group III, rats intoxicated (intraperitoneal) with Doxo (0.5 mg/kg) for 4 weeks; group IV, rats ingested with BAE in combination with Doxo injection for 4 weeks; group V, rats ingested with BAE for 4 weeks before Doxo injection for another 4 weeks; and group VI, rats ingested with BAE for 4 weeks after Doxo injection.

Results

The results revealed all BAE regimens succeeded to decrease the hepatotoxicity induced by Doxo. This was evidenced by the significant reduction of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-1beta levels, as well as hepatic malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels. Moreover, a marked increase was observed in serum protein and albumin levels, as well as hepatic-reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase values. The obvious histopathological regenerations came in line with both serum and tissue biochemical findings. The Doxo-BAE combined regimen exhibited the highest potential of amelioration.

Conclusion

As a promising supplement, BAE exhibited hepatoprotective potential against Doxo-induced hepatic injuries; this could be mechanized through its antioxidant and radical scavenging exhibition of its bioactive constituents.
Mechanical Ventilation and Weaning Practices for Adults with Spinal Cord Injury - An International Survey
Authors: Korupolu Radha , Stampas Argyrios , Jimenez Isaac Hernandez , Cruz Darby , Di Giusto Melina Longoni , Verduzco-Gutierrez Monica , Davis Matthew E.
Published: June 2021

Objective:

There is heterogeneity in the management of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). This survey's objective was to study the current practices of ventilator management and weaning in adults with SCI.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional, self-administered global electronic survey of providers caring for adults with SCI on MV. Recruitment was accomplished through direct E-mailing, social media posting and sharing amongst qualifying providers. Respondents were divided into acute care (AC) and rehabilitation (rehab) groups based on their work setting and specialty.

Results:

Overall, 137 respondents with a majority from North America (50%) were included. Assist Control mode was the most frequently reported mode (33%) in AC and the rehabilitation setting (RS). Most (72%) in AC use predicted body weight (PBW) to determine the tidal volume (VT); it varies widely in the RS. The highest VT (median [interquartile range]) reported by AC was 10 (8–10) cc/kg pbw compared to 13 (10–15) cc/kg pbw (P = 0.001) in the RS. Application of positive end-expiratory pressure and keeping the tracheostomy cuff inflated are commonly reported practices in AC, whereas there is inconsistency with these practices in the RS. Regarding factors to initiate weaning, physicians in the AC mostly relied on arterial blood gas (70%) findings, whereas in the RS, physicians relied on vital capacity (73%).

Conclusion:

We found significant differences in practices between “AC and RS” and “within RS,” which warrants further investigation of optimal ventilator settings and weaning practices for people with SCI.
Epidemiological Determinants of Children's Orthopedic Care in Rural Central India
Authors: James Deeptiman , Gajendran Manjulata , Paraseth Tapan Kumar
Published: June 2021

Background:

Musculoskeletal disorders of children in rural India are often highlighted through anecdotal reports of delayed presentations. This study was conducted to identify prevalence and factors that influenced children's orthopedic care in a secondary hospital in rural Central India.

Methodology:

A retrospective survey was conducted to identify the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and delayed presentation among children at our institution from July 2011 to June 2016. Actionable epidemiological determinants were identified with the Delphi method and a prospective cohort was analyzed for delayed presentation.

Results:

Among 2281 children 71% presented with trauma. The incidence of delayed presentation among the trauma cases was 28%. Remaining had neuromuscular (17%), infectious (3.75%), metabolic (1.5%), congenital (3.25%), and miscellaneous (3.5%) disorders. Delayed presentation in 19 children from a prospective cohort of 100 patients showed significant association with distance traveled to reach the clinic and poor transport infrastructure in rural areas (P = 0.025) but did not differ by socioeconomic scale (SES) (P = 0.085), lack of health insurance coverage (P = 0.348) or primary indigenous treatment (P = 0.535). In this cohort, 84% belonged to middle and low-SES families, 33% had insurance coverage, 79% received primary traditional remedies and 68% traveled from distant rural locations.

Conclusions:

Trauma care and neuromuscular diseases constituted the bulk of musculoskeletal disorders in children in this survey from rural India. Poor transport infrastructure led to delayed presentation in the prospective cohort but lower SES, lack of health insurance, and rampant primary indigenous treatment in rural areas are likely contributory factors.
Is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome Influenced by Pelvic Anatomy? A Radiological Review
Authors: Kattimani Raviprasad , Bayley Morgan
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is one of the common causes of hip pain, which can be difficult to treat. The incidence of GTPS is highest in the middle aged and the elderly. The iliotibial band (ITB) acts as a tension band over the concave lateral surface of the femur. We postulate that those with wider pelvic morphology have higher tension though the ITB which predisposes to developing GTPS.

Aim of the Study:

The aim of the study is to evaluate the relationship between pelvic anatomy and GTPS.

Methodology:

A total of 89 patients underwent steroid injection in a district general hospital for the clinical diagnosis of GTPS between February 2013 and December 2014. We performed a retrospective radiological analysis of their pelvic morphology. We measured intertrochanteric distance and the bispinal distance between both anterosuperior iliac spines on anteroposterior pelvis radiographs. A ratio of intertrochanteric to bispinal distance was calculated. Femoral neck angle and offset were also recorded. Student's t-test was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The average intertrochanteric distance and bispinal distance of patients with GTPS and control group were 362 mm and 341 mm, respectively. Intertrochanteric to bi spinal average ratio of 1.06 was found in GTPS group compared to 1.04 in the control group. Patients with GTPS had more varus femoral necks and a larger femoral offset. Intertrochanteric distance, neck-shaft angle, and offset were also statistically significant.

Conclusion:

We postulate that risk factors for GTPS include female sex, increasing age, and a wider pelvis. To allow for magnification of radiographs, we would suggest the use of the intertrochanteric to bispinal ratio in assessing patients with suspected trochanteric bursitis. We believe a figure of >1.06 would be supportive of the condition.
Comparisons of Health-Related Quality of Life of Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis Undergoing Anterior Spinal Fusion with Extrapleural and Posterior Lumbar Spinal Fusion with Transpleural Treatments using Scoliosis Research Society-22 Questionnaire
Authors: Ng Bobby Kin-Wah , Chau Wai-Wang , Hui Anna C. N. , Wong C. Y. , Shit Francis K. Y.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Conventional posterior lumbar spinal fusion (PLSF) surgical treatment in severe adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients involved transpleural technique. AIS patients undergoing anterior spinal fusion (ASF) together with extrapleural treatments in the treatment of thoracolumbar scoliosis are well known for its effect in curve correction. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients after ASF and PLSF has yet to be explored.

Subjects and Methods:

Severe AIS patients underwent ASF with extrapleural or PLSF with transpleural treatments filled out Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire before and after surgery. HRQOL before and after surgery was compared. HRQOL between ASF and PLSF was also compared.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients (10 ASF extrapleural and 18 PLSF transpleural) filled out the SRS-22 questionnaire before and after surgery. No significant difference in function, pain, self-image, mental, satisfaction, and mean scores between ASF and PLSF. All mentioned domains and mean scores were significantly improved after surgery in both ASF and PLSF.

Conclusions:

Significant improvements in all HRQOL domains after either treatment after surgery were observed, while there was no difference when compared with each other postoperatively. ASF with extrapleural treatment provided same HRQOL as of PLSF.
Colorimetric Reverse Transcription–Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Lai Meng Yee , Tang Soo Nee , Lau Yee Ling
Published: June 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been spreading rapidly all over the world. In the absence of effective treatments or a vaccine, there is an urgent need to develop a more rapid and simple detection technology of COVID-19. We describe a WarmStart colorimetric reverse transcription–loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) assay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2. The detection limit for this assay was 1 copy/µL SARS-CoV-2. To test the clinical sensitivity and specificity of the assay, 37 positive and 20 negative samples were used. The WarmStart colorimetric RT-LAMP had 100% sensitivity and specificity. End products were detected by direct observation, thereby eliminating the need for post-amplification processing steps. WarmStart colorimetric RT-LAMP provides an opportunity to facilitate virus detection in resource-limited settings without a sophisticated diagnostic infrastructure.
Association of Total Electron Content (TEC) and foF2 variations with earthquake events at the anomaly crest region
Authors: M. Devi  , A. K. Barbara  , A. Depueva
Published: June 2021

The paper attempts to identify ionospheric parameters in association with earthquake at anomaly crest station through VHF Radio Beacon data and ground based ionosonde measurements while the Total Electron Content(TEC) parameters from RB observations are based mainly on data taken over Guwahati (26.2°N, 91.75° E), foF2 data used in the analysis were collected at Ahmadabad (23.01°N, 72.36°E). The paper describes methods and techniques adopted to examine modifications on these parameters if any, due to earthquake preparatory processes at equatorial anomaly crest stations. The mechanism of inducement of density changes in the ionosphere is sought through the generation of strong fountain effect possibly by the development of electric field during the earthquake preparatory process.
A survey of the past earthquakesin the Eastern Adriatic (14th to early 19th century)
Authors: P. Albini
Published: June 2021

Focusing on the Eastern Adriatic region, from Zadar in the north to Corfu in the south, the background information supporting our knowledge of the seismicity in the time-span 14th to early 19th century is discussed from the point of view of the historical earthquake records. The late 19th century seismological compilations turn out to be those responsible for the uneven spatial and temporal distribution of seismicity suggested by current parametric earthquake catalogues. This awareness asked for a comprehensive reappraisal of the reliability and completeness of the available historical earthquake records. This task was addressed by retrieving in the original version the information already known, by putting the records in the historical context in which they were produced, and finally by sampling historical sources so far not considered. Selected case histories have been presented in some detail also. This material altogether has shown that i) current parameterisation of past earthquakes in the Eastern Adriatic should be reconsidered in the light of a critically revised interpretation of the available records; ii) collecting new evidence in sources and repositories, not fully exploited so far, is needed. This should aim mostly at overcoming another limitation affecting the evaluation of full sets of earthquake parameters, that is the few observations available for each earthquake. In this perspective, an optimistic assessment of the potential documentation on this area is proposed.