bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro-Shaping of Pure Aluminum by Intermittent Ultrasonic Oscillation Assisted Wire Electrochemical Micromachining with an Ultra-Low-Concentration Mixed Electrolyte
Authors: Bi Xiaolei , Zeng Yongbin , Qu Ningsong
Published: November 2021

Sacrificial mandrels and micro-components made from pure aluminum have considerable application potential for fabricating terahertz micro-cavity components and for MEMS. Although WECMM has significant advantages in micro-shaping micro-components from difficult-to-machine materials, high-quality micro-shaping of pure aluminum has always been very challenging due to its extremely high chemical activity in an aqueous solution. This study analyzes the electrochemical characteristics of pure aluminum and the corresponding machining experiments by traditional WECMM in various electrolytes, and manufactures a high-quality micro-slit with a short machining path in the obtained ultra-low-concentration mixed electrolyte. However, in a continuous long-term WECMM with a long machining path, poor mass transport leads to the accumulation of bubbles around the machining area and the deposition of insoluble products on the wire surface that reduce the machining stability and machining accuracy. Therefore, a mass transport method of using intermittent ultrasonic oscillation is proposed. The principle was expounded, systematic comparative experiments demonstrated the effectiveness of this method in continuous long-time WECMM in improving the machining stability and machining accuracy. Finally, a rectangular mandrel of pure aluminum with a path length greater than 10,000 μm was fabricated. After dissolving the rectangular mandrel, a terahertz hollow-core rectangular waveguide micro-cavity was produced.
Electrochemical Detection of Nitrite on Electrodes Modified by Click Chemistry Using Asymmetrical Co(II) and Mn(III) Phthalocyanines Containing Push-Pull Substituents
Authors: Nkhahle Reitumetse , Nyokong Tebello
Published: November 2021

The more conventional route to synthesizing asymmetric push-pull phthalocyanines (Pcs) involves pairing electron-donating substituents with electron-withdrawing groups in either an A3B or AB3 manner. In this work, a push-pull system fashioned from a substituent bearing different functional groups was created. Symmetric and asymmetric cobalt and manganese Pcs in which acetaminophen was the dominant substituent were synthesized where the asymmetric analogues bore an alkyne-terminated substituent. These complexes were applied as sensors towards the electro-oxidation of nitrite. In addition to comparing the asymmetric Pcs to the symmetric counterparts, an assessment on the different central metals as well as the method of electrode modification was made. From the studies performed, the results showed that the manganese complexes are generally better suited (more so when clicked on to the electrode) in the electrocatalysis of nitrite with a limit of detection and a catalytic rate values of 2.15 μM and 6.91 × 106 s−1 M−1 being recorded for the asymmetric MnPc.
Copper Hexacyanoferrate as a Novel Electrode Material in Electrochemical Detection of Cumene Hydroperoxide
Authors: Moonla Chochanon , Jankhunthod Sukanya , Ngamchuea Kamonwad
Published: November 2021

Cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) is an important initiator in polymerization industry. The compound is potentially explosive, toxic, and mutagenic. Herein, an electrochemical sensor is developed for CHP detection. First, the mechanism of CHP electrode process was investigated by a combination of electrochemical methods and ex-situ characterization techniques (SEM, FTIR, LC-MS, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR). The electrochemically generated species became more easily reduced than CHP and deposited on the electrode surface, allowing the analyte to be detected at low overpotential in aqueous solutions (as opposed to organic solvents typically needed in organic peroxide detection). In addition to the newly developed method, the performance of the electrochemical sensor was further enhanced via the use of copper hexacyanoferrate (CuHCF), a Prussian blue analogue which showed strong electrocatalytic activity towards peroxide reduction. A number of different CuHCF samples were synthesized and tested. The crystalline nanostructured CuHCF with high surface area (31.92 m2 g−1) and large lattice parameter (10.1397(1) Å) yielded excellent analytical performance towards CHP detection. The optimized method showed high tolerance to interferences and was validated in tap water samples. The excellent reproducibility (%RSD = 1.81, n = 3), high sensitivity (44.03 μA cm−2 mM−1), and low detection limit (5.9 μM, 3S
b/m) of the developed CHP sensor were demonstrated.
Cubilin-, megalin-, and Dab2-dependent transcription revealed by CRISPR/Cas9 knockout in kidney proximal tubule cells
Authors: Long Kimberly R. , Rbaibi Youssef , Bondi Corry D. , Ford B. Rhodes , Poholek Amanda C. , Boyd-Shiwarski Cary R. , Tan Roderick J. , Locker Joseph D. , Weisz Ora A.
Published: November 2021

Megalin and cubilin receptors together with their adaptor protein Dab2 represent major components of the endocytic machinery responsible for efficient uptake of filtered proteins by the proximal tubule (PT). Dab2 and megalin expression have been implicated as both positive and negative modulators of kidney disease. We used RNA sequencing to knock out CRISPR/Cas9 cubilin, megalin, and Dab2 in highly differentiated PT cells to identify PT‐specific changes that are directly consequent to knockout of each component.
Bioinformatic Analysis and Integration of Transcriptome and Proteome Results Identify Key Coding and Noncoding Genes Predicting Malignancy in Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms of the Pancreas
Authors: Saha Barsha , Chhatriya Bishnupriya , Pramanick Swapnila , Goswami Srikanta
Published: November 2021

Background. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are precursor lesions of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). IPMNs are generally associated with high risk of developing malignancy and therefore need to be diagnosed and assessed accurately, once detected. Existing diagnostic methods are inadequate, and identification of efficient biomarker capable of detecting high‐risk IPMNs is necessitated. Moreover, the mechanism of development of malignancy in IPMNs is also elusive. Methods. Gene expression meta‐analysis conducted using 12 low‐risk IPMN and 23 high‐risk IPMN tissue samples. We have also listed all the altered miRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), identified their target genes, and performed pathway analysis. We further enlisted cyst fluid proteins detected to be altered in high‐risk or malignant IPMNs and compared them with fraction of differentially expressed genes secreted into cyst fluid. Results. Our meta‐analysis identified 270 upregulated and 161 downregulated genes characteristically altered in high‐risk IPMNs. We further identified 61 miRNAs and 14 lncRNAs and their target genes and key pathways contributing towards understanding of the gene regulation during the progression of the disease. Most importantly, we have detected 12 genes altered significantly both in cystic lesions and cyst fluid. Conclusion. Our study reports, for the first time, a meta‐analysis identifying key changes in gene expression between low‐risk and high‐risk IPMNs and also explains the regulatory aspect through construction of a miRNA‐lncRNA‐mRNA interaction network. The 12‐gene‐signature could function as potential biomarker in cyst fluid for detection of IPMN with a high risk of developing malignancy.
Structural Analysis of Backfill Highway Subgrade on the Lower Bearing Capacity Foundation Using the Finite Element Method
Authors: Xu Wenjuan , Huang Xin , Huang Jiandong , Yang Zhengjun
Published: November 2021

The present study is to investigate the stability of the backfill subgrade on the lower bearing capacity foundation. A finite element (FE) model was constructed to simulate the high‐filled road subjected to the actual self‐weight load. The strength reduction method was adopted to establish an analysis model of slope stability. At the same time, the sensitivity analysis of the factors affecting the slope stability was carried out through parametric studies, including the elastic modulus, cohesion, internal friction angle, and slope rate. The results showed that the slope stability analysis model established by the strength reduction method can characterize the stability of the slope by calculating the slope safety coefficient. The mutation point of the relationship curve between the displacement generated in the slope and the reduction coefficient can be used as the criterion. Under the condition of a given strength reduction coefficient, the calculated results obtained through FE modeling can show the development of the equivalent plastic zone in the form of cloud diagrams.
Vehicle‐Bridge Coupling Vibration Analysis for Simply Supported Girders of High‐Speed Railway Bridges Based on the Cross‐Sectional Decentralized Centre of Mass and Shear
Authors: Daihai Chen , Shuai Zhou , Shizhan Xu , Zheng Li , Yilin Fang
Published: November 2021

Taking the simply supported box girder bridge of high‐speed railway as an example, the effect of cross‐sectional decentralized centre of mass and shear on the spatial beam element stiffness matrix was theoretically derived. Based on the vehicle‐bridge coupling vibration analysis method of the railway bridge, an analysis program of vehicle‐bridge coupling vibration for the high‐speed railway was compiled, and its reliability was verified through an example analysis. On this basis, considering the cross‐sectional decentralized centre of mass and shear, the influence factors of vehicle‐bridge coupling vibration response were studied, which included the offset distance of the beam section’s mass and shear centre, offset distance of track centreline, vehicle weight, and vehicle speed. The results show that the additional items of the spatial beam element stiffness matrix are generated by the torsion effect when the cross‐sectional decentralized centre of mass and shear is considered, and it will affect the lateral and vertical stiffness of the element. The cross‐sectional decentralized centre of mass and shear has a significant effect on the lateral dynamic response of the bridge’s mid‐span, but the influence on the vertical response of the bridge and the dynamic response of the car body is small. The main influence factors of the lateral dynamic response of the bridge are the vertical offset distance of the beam section’s centre of mass and shear, the lateral offset distance of the track centreline, and the vehicle weight.
Porcine-Stimulated Human Tr1 Cells Showed Enhanced Suppression in Xenoantigen Stimulation Response
Authors: Chen Xiaoting , Ma Hongwen , Gong Lina , Yang Guang , Jin Xi
Published: November 2021

Type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells play a fundamental role in maintaining and inducing immune tolerance. Our preliminary study demonstrated that an interleukin- (IL-) 10-mediated pathway is a possible regulatory mechanism underlying the xenoantigen-specific human Treg enhanced suppressive capacity. Here, we developed a feasible protocol for expanding IL-10-induced xenoantigen-specific human Tr1 cells in vitro which would be more efficient in transplantation immunotherapy efficiency. In this study, xenoantigen-specific Tr1 cells are generated from human naive CD4+ T cells expanded for two subsequent xenoantigen-stimulation cycles with recombinant human IL-10. The phenotype and suppressive capacity of xenoantigen-stimulated Tr1 cells are assessed, and the mechanism of their suppression is studied. Tr1 cells can be induced by porcine xenoantigen stimulation combined with IL-10, IL-2, and IL-15, displaying an increased expression of CD49b, CTLA-4, and LAG-3 without expressing Foxp3 which also showed an effector memory Treg phenotype and expressed high levels of CD39. After xenoantigen stimulation, the IL-10 and IL-5 gene expression in Tr1 cells increased, secreting more IL-10, and xenoantigen-stimulated Tr1 cells changed their T cell receptor (TCR) Vβ repertoire, increasing the expression of TCR Vβ2, TCR Vβ9, and TCR Vβ13. In a pig to human mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), xenoantigen-stimulated Tr1 cells displayed enhanced suppressive capacity via CD39 in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, IL-5 could affect the proliferation of xenoantigen-specific Tr1 cells, but not their phenotypes’ expression. This study provides a theory and feasible method for immune tolerance induction in clinical xenotransplantation.
Perinatal Asphyxia and Its Associated Factors among Live Births in the Public Health Facilities of Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021
Authors: Dabalo Magarsa Lami , Animen Bante Simachew , Belay Gela Getahun , Lake Fanta Selamawit , Abdisa Sori Lemesa , Feyisa Balcha Wondu , Muse Yomilan Geneti , Derebe Tesfahun Tigist
Published: November 2021

Background. Birth asphyxia is a serious clinical problem of newborn babies, which occurs due to impaired blood-gas exchange and results in hypoxemia. Despite improvements in the diagnosis and management of perinatal asphyxia, it has become the leading cause of admission and neonatal mortality, especially in developing countries. Objective. This study was aimed at assessing factors associated with perinatal asphyxia among live births in the public health facilities of Bahir Dar city, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021. Method. Health facility-based cross-sectional study was employed from April 1-30/2021 in the public health facilities of Bahir Dar city among 517 mother-newborn pairs. The data were collected by systematic random sampling technique, entered by using Epi data 3.1, and analyzed using SPSS 25.0 version. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to estimate the crude and adjusted odds ratio with a confidence interval of 95% and a

P

value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Frequency tables, figures, and descriptive summaries were used to describe the study variables. Result. In this study, 21.7% (95% CI: 18.2%–25.5%) of the newborns had perinatal asphyxia. Malpresentation (

AOR
=
4.06

,

95
%
CI
=
2.08

-7.94), uterotonic drug administration (

AOR
=
2.78

,

95
%
CI
=
1.67

-4.62), meconium-stained amniotic fluid (

AOR
=
4.55

,

95
%
CI
=
2.66

, 7.80), night time delivery (

AOR
=
1.91

,

95
%
CI
=
1.17

, 3.13), and preterm delivery (

AOR
=
3.96

,

95
%
CI
=
1.98

, 7.89) were significantly associated with perinatal asphyxia. Conclusion and Recommendation. In the present study, the proportion of perinatal asphyxia was high. To mitigate this problem, there is a need to focus on early identification of the risk factors like fetal malpresentation, preterm labor/delivery, and managing them appropriately. Administering uterotonic drugs should be based on indication with close supervision.
Optimized Backprojection Filtration Algorithm for Postoperative Reduction and Analysis of Respiratory Infection-Related Factors of Pelvic Fractures by CT Imaging
Authors: Pu Aihua , Wang Hua , Ying Jichong
Published: November 2021

To explore the computed tomography (CT) imaging characteristics and BPF algorithm fine lung CT image efficiency for the diagnosis of pelvic fracture patients and assist clinicians to carry out the disease care and treatment, CT images based on optimized back-projection filtering (BPF) algorithm were utilized to diagnose postoperative reduction of pelvic fractures and penetrating lung infection caused by long-term bed rest. A total of 100 patients with pelvic fracture were selected and all of them underwent pelvic fracture surgery and were rolled into conventional CT diagnosis group (conventional group) and BPF algorithm optimized CT image diagnosis group (BPF group). One group used conventional CT images to guide pelvic reduction and detect lung infections, and the other used BPF algorithm to optimize the images. The results showed that the BPF group was superior to the conventional CT group in both image clarity and shadow area, and the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) was significantly better than that of the conventional group (

P
<
0.05

). Nine more cases were detected in the algorithm group than in the conventional group, and the incidence of complications was 48% in the conventional group and 28% in the BPF group, with a statistical difference of 20% between the two groups (

P
<
0.05

). In addition, the satisfaction of returning patients was 96% in the BPF group and 77% in the conventional group (

P
<
0.05

). The diagnosis of pulmonary infection was more obvious in the BPF group, indicating that BPF optimization of the CT image was suitable for clinical diagnosis and had a practical application value.
Controlled Decompression Attenuates Compressive Injury following Traumatic Brain Injury via TREK‐1‐Mediated Inhibition of Necroptosis and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Chen Tao , Qian Xiao , Zhu Jie , Yang Li-Kun , Wang Yu-Hai
Published: November 2021

Decompressive craniectomy is an effective strategy to reduce intracranial hypertension after traumatic brain injury (TBI), but it is related to many postoperative complications, such as delayed intracranial hematoma and diffuse brain swelling. Our previous studies have demonstrated that controlled decompression (CDC) surgery attenuates brain injury and reduces the rate of complications after TBI. Here, we investigated the potential molecular mechanisms of CDC in experimental models. The in vitro experiments were performed in a traumatic neuronal injury (TNI) model following compression treatment in primary cultured cortical neurons. We found that compression aggravates TNI‐induced neuronal injury, which was significantly attenuated by CDC for 2 h or 3 h. The results of immunocytochemistry showed that CDC reduced neuronal necroptosis and activation of RIP3 induced by TNI and compression, with no effect on RIP1 activity. These protective effects were associated with decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines and preserved intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. In addition, the expression of the two‐pore domain K+ channel TREK‐1 and its activity was increased by compression and prolonged by CDC. Treatment with the TREK‐1 blockers, spadin or SID1900, could partially prevent the effects of CDC on intracellular Ca2+ metabolism, necroptosis, and neuronal injury following TNI and compression. Using a traumatic intracranial hypertension model in rats, we found that CDC for 20 min or 30 min was effective in alleviating brain edema and locomotor impairment in vivo. CDC significantly inhibited neuronal necroptosis and neuroinflammation and increased TREK‐1 activation, and the CDC‐induced protection in vivo was attenuated by spadin and SID1900. In summary, CDC is effective in alleviating compressive neuronal injury both in vitro and in vivo, which is associated with the TREK‐1‐mediated attenuation of intracellular Ca2+ overload, neuronal necroptosis, and neuroinflammation.
Temporal Approach, Digitally Assisted Phacovitrectomy in a Patient with Severe Kyphosis due to Axial Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Rios-Nequis Geovanni J. , Ramírez-Estudillo J. Abel , Gutiérrez-García L. Daniel , Jiménez-Rodríguez Martin , Levine-Berevichez Arthur
Published: November 2021

Purpose. To describe a temporal approach, digitally assisted phacovitrectomy in a patient with severe kyphosis due to axial spondyloarthritis. Case Report. A 70-year-old male patient with proliferative diabetic retinopathy with vitreous hemorrhage and cataract and ankylosing spondylitis with severe kyphosis. A temporal approach, digitally assisted 25 G phacovitrectomy was performed with a Constellation platform and the NGENUITY visualization system. The Trendelenburg position was utilized. Conclusion. A temporal approach, digitally assisted phacovitrectomy may be used in select cases of severe kyphosis with positive outcomes.
Heavy Metal Concentrations in Fish from River Tano in Ghana and the Health Risks Posed to Consumers
Authors: Nyantakyi A. J. , Wiafe S. , Akoto O. , Fei-Baffoe Bernard
Published: November 2021

Appreciable levels of trace metals have been reported in the Tano basin, but data on the corresponding levels in fish and the risk they pose to consumers are limited. The levels of 7 trace metals in 18 fish muscles were assessed between November 2016 and October 2017 using acid digestion and PerkinElmer (PinAACle 900T) Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Apart from Cu, all the metals studied were detected in all fish samples. The levels of Cr, As, and Hg were higher than the acceptable levels of fish muscles. Cr concentration ranged from 16.10 ± 0.2 mg/kg in Clarias gariepinus to 57.9 ± 4.2 mg/kg in Sarotherodon galilaeus. The levels of As ranged from 1.01 ± 0.08 in Clarias gariepinus to 3.00 ± 0.01 mg/kg in Mormyrus rume. Hg level was 0.58 ± 0.69 mg/kg in Oreochromis niloticus and 2.52 ± 0.70 mg/kg in Ctenopoma kingsleyae. However, Pb, Zn, and Cd concentrations were below the Food and Agriculture Organization limits with low target hazard quotients in all fish samples, suggesting no possible noncarcinogenic risks to adult consumers. Possible noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks were recorded for As, Hg, and Cr in all fish species. Strong associations were observed between Hg, As, Zn, and Cr and between Pb and Cd suggesting a possible common source. Mormyrus rume fish species was under stress in the river, but the remaining species were in good condition. Periodic monitoring of trace metal concentrations in fish and enforcement of the buffer zone policy are recommended.
Free Radical Scavenging Capacities and Alleviating Actions of Polysaccharides Extract of Termitomyces le-testui on Methylprednisolone-Induced Immunodepression in Rats
Authors: Evans Ngwenah Foncham , Sanda Antoine Kada , Martin Salah , Christopher Tume , Mahamat Oumar
Published: November 2021

Background. Natural products have been said to show immunomodulatory and antioxidant activities. The research study was aimed to assess the immunomodulatory and free radical scavenging activities of crude polysaccharide from dry mushroom fruiting bodies of Termitomyces le-testui. Materials and Methods. Hot water extract of polysaccharide extract of T. le-testui was prepared and tested in white albino Wister rats for its immunomodulatory activities effect on methylprednisolone-immunosuppressed animals. In addition, the radical scavenging activity of the polysaccharide was evaluated using nitrite and hydrogen peroxide. Results. The result of the study showed that the polysaccharide T. le-testui increases the phagocytic index, energy metabolism of macrophages, spleen index, and nitric oxide in a concentration-dependent manner in immunosuppressed animals. Also, it was observed that the extract increased dose-dependent total oxidative stress and thymus index. Finally, the crude polysaccharide-rich extract showed nitrite and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Conclusion. Polysaccharide-rich extract possesses immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties.
Dynamical Effect Investigations of Component’s Internal Interface by Using Techniques of Rigid‐Flex Coupling Simulation
Authors: Li Te-te , Du Wei , Piao Ming-wei , Guo Yong-zheng , Jin Shi-ying , Nie Chun-ge , Fang Ji , Cheng Ya-jun , Fan Jun
Published: November 2021

As a component of servicing car body, the internal interfaces of aluminum alloy carbody include all connections of equipments hanged under floor and mounted on roof, which are expected to form the weak coupling relationship. For an imported prototype with primary hunting phenomenon, a dynamical design methodology of speeding‐up bogies was proposed. The analysis graph of full‐vehicle stability properties and variation patterns is used to clarify a self‐adaptive improvement direction, i.e., λeN ≥ λemin, and λemin = (0.03–0.05). Therefore, the central hollow tread wear can be self‐cleaned in time or regularly by crossing over the dedicated lines of different speed‐grades. The modified strategy with strong/weak internal interface transaction of servicing car body was furthermore formulated based on the dynamical condensation method of component interface displacements. The causal relationship between bogie vibration alarm and car body fluttering phenomenon was then demonstrated by using techniques of rigid‐flex coupling simulation. The self‐excited vibration of traction converter intersects with the unstable hunting oscillation, ca. 9.2/9.3 Hz, which is consistent with the conclusions of tracking‐test investigations on two car body fluttering formations. The technical space to promote the construction speed is thereby lost completely because of ride comfort decline, unsafe vibration of onboard electrical equipments, and weld fatigue damage of aluminum alloy car body. However, the rigid‐flex coupling simulation analyses of trailer TC02/07 confirm that the safety threshold of bogie vibration warning can be appropriately increased as long as the lateral modal frequency of traction converters is greater than 12 Hz, preferably close to 14 Hz.
Veterinary Drug Prescribing Practices at Selected District Veterinary Clinics of Rift Valley Areas of Ethiopia
Authors: Etefa Monenus , Beyi Ashenafi Feyisa , Ayana Dinka , Beyene Tariku Jibat , Tufa Takele Beyene
Published: November 2021

The rational use of drugs in veterinary medicine has various significances, such as reducing the risk of drug resistance, increasing efficacy, reducing drug residue, and decreasing adverse drug reactions. A retrospective study was conducted to assess veterinary drug prescribing practices at Batu and Arsi-Negelle district veterinary clinics in the rift valley areas of Ethiopia. A total of 2,464 cases were recorded from the case registration books at both the clinics for diseases treated between September 2012 and February 2015. The study results showed that for a total of 2,464 cases diagnosed at both clinics, 3,811 different drugs were prescribed, with an average per encounter of 1.6. Among the total drugs, oxytetracycline, ivermectin, penstrep, sulfa drugs, and albendazole were the most leading prescribed drugs with a frequency of 43.0%, 17.6%, 10.2%, 6.5%, and 1.3%, respectively. All drugs were prescribed by the generic name without any laboratory support of the disease. About 68.3% of the cases were diagnosed by unspecified professionals, whereas 21.7% and 10.1% were done by animal health assistants and veterinarians, respectively. The prescribing practices showed 61.0% of antibiotics and 29.7% of anthelmintics where 45.3% and 54.7% of antibiotics and 17.8% and 82.2% of anthelmintics were given at Batu and Arsi-Negelle veterinary clinics, respectively. Of the prescribed drugs, 4.6% oxytetracycline and 2.6% penstrep were prescribed irrationally to treat diseases that were tentatively diagnosed as parasitic cases. Similarly, 40.5% ivermectin and 17.7% albendazole were prescribed for bacterial infections. In conclusion, this study revealed problems in antibiotics and anthelmintics use, description of routes of administration and length of treatment, and shortage of laboratory diagnostic facilities. Therefore, veterinary drugs, particularly antibiotics and anthelmintics, should be used appropriately to safeguard the public from residual drug impacts and resistance development.
Necroptosis-Related lncRNAs: Predicting Prognosis and the Distinction between the Cold and Hot Tumors in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhao Zirui , Liu Haohan , Zhou Xingyu , Fang Deliang , Ou Xinde , Ye Jinning , Peng Jianjun , Xu Jianbo
Published: November 2021

Background. In the face of poor prognosis and immunotherapy failure of gastric cancer (GC), this project tried to find new potential biomarkers for predicting prognosis and precision medication to ameliorate the situation. Methods. To form synthetic matrices, we retrieved stomach adenocarcinoma transcriptome data from Genotype-Tissue Expression Project (GTEx) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Necroptosis-related prognostic lncRNA was identified by coexpression analysis and univariate Cox regression. Then we performed the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) to construct the necroptosis-related lncRNA model. Next, the Kaplan–Meier analysis, time-dependent receiver operating characteristics (ROC), univariate Cox (uni-Cox) regression, multivariate Cox (multi-Cox) regression, nomogram, and calibration curves were made to verify and evaluate the model. Gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA), principal component analysis (PCA), immune analysis, and prediction of the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) in risk groups were also analyzed. For further discussing immunotherapy between the cold and hot tumors, we divided the entire set into two clusters based on necroptosis-related lncRNAs. Results. We constructed a model with 16 necroptosis-related lncRNAs. In the model, we found the calibration plots showed a good concordance with the prognosis prediction. The area’s 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS under the ROC curve (AUC) were 0.726, 0.763, and 0.770, respectively. Risk groups could be a guide of systemic treatment because of significantly different IC50 between risk groups. Above all, clusters could help distinguish between the cold and hot tumors effectively and contribute to precise mediation. Cluster 2 was identified as the hot tumor and more susceptible to immunotherapeutic drugs. Conclusion. The results of this project supported that necroptosis-related lncRNAs could predict prognosis and help make a distinction between the cold and hot tumors for improving individual therapy in GC.
Association of IL‐1β, NLRP3, and COX‐2 Gene Polymorphisms with Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Risk and Clinical Features in the Iranian Population
Authors: Heidari Zahra , Salimi Saeedeh , Rokni Mohsen , Rezaei Mahnaz , Khalafi Neshat , Shahroudi Mahdieh Jafari , Dehghan Azizallah , Saravani Mohsen
Published: November 2021

Background. Grave’s disease (GD) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) are autoimmune diseases of the thyroid gland in which genetic predisposition plays a major role in their development. Currently, the role of NLRP3 inflammasome and COX‐2 has been documented in many autoimmune diseases. The purpose of the study is to delineate the impact of IL‐1β (rs1143634), NLRP3 (rs3806265), and COX‐2 (rs2745557) gene polymorphisms in the development of GD and HT. Methods. A total of 256 newly diagnosed patients with autoimmune thyroid disease (135 patients with HT and 121 GD patients) as case groups and 145 controls were included in the study. Results. Recessive and overdominant models showed a significant association between IL‐1β rs1143634 SNP and HT development risk. The frequency of TT genotype and T allele of IL‐1β rs1143634 SNP in the control group was significantly higher than the GD group. There was no significant association between NLRP3 rs3806265 polymorphism and HT and GD development. The frequency of GA genotype of COX‐2 (rs2745557) in the control group was significantly higher than that in the HT group. There was no significant association between COX‐2 rs2745557 genotypic and allelic distribution and GD development risk. The results revealed a significant relationship between some clinical features of HT and GD groups and SNPs studied. Conclusion. The results manifest the significant impact of IL‐1β rs1143634 and COX‐2 (rs2745557) SNPs and HT development and IL‐1β rs1143634 SNP on GD occurrence risk. Furthermore, a significant relationship was observed between some clinical features of HT and GD groups and studied SNPs.
Strength and Microstructural Investigation of Quaternary Blended High‐Strength Concrete
Authors: Bereda Ayele , Asteray Belachew
Published: November 2021

This research focuses on studying the effect of different supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) such as waste ceramic powder (WCP), lime powder (LP), and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) in combination on strength characteristics and microstructure of quaternary blended high‐strength concrete. To achieve the aims of the study, necessary physical and chemical composition tests were done for the raw materials. Then, mixes were designed into control mix with 100% Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and experimental mixes containing 30%, 40%, 50%, and 60% of GGBS, WCP, and LP in combination. Tests were conducted during casting and at curing ages of 7 and 28 days. Accordingly, the control mix which is concrete grade 50 (C‐50) as per American Concrete Institute (ACI) mix design is used as a reference for comparison of test results with those specimens produced by partial replacement of SCMs. The characterizations of high‐strength concrete are done using consistency, setting time, workability, compressive strength, flexural strength, and morphological tests. The optimum percentage replacement is 50% OPC replacement by 30% GGBS + 10% WCP + 10% LP. Based on the experimental investigations, the workability increases as the replacement level of SCMs increases from 30% to 60% by weight. Compressive strength and flexural strength results increase up to 11.41% and 20% when the percentage replacement increases from 30% to 50% of SCMs replacement at 28 days of curing time, respectively. There are also improvement in the microstructure and significant cost saving due to replacing OPC partially with SCMs with proportions mentioned above. Therefore, the practice of utilizing increased percentage of SCMs in quaternary blend in concrete can be beneficial for the construction industry and sustainability without compromising the quality of the concrete product.
Effect of Methotrexate Injection on Orthodontic Tooth Movement: An Experimental Study on Rats
Authors: Golshah Amin , Omidi Khaled , Nikkerdar Nafiseh , Moradpoor Hedaiat , Ghorbani Fatemeh
Published: November 2021

Introduction. Knowledge about the effects of medications, vitamins, and various supplements on orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is imperative for orthodontists. This study aimed to assess the effect of methotrexate (MTX) injection on OTM in rats. Materials and Methods. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n = 7). The first molar and central incisor were connected using a nickel-titanium (NiTi) coil spring with a 50 g load in each rat. The two experimental groups received 0.75 mg/kg and 1.5 mg/kg MTX, respectively, intraperitoneally for 21 days. The negative control group did not receive any injection and did not undergo orthodontic treatment. The positive control group underwent orthodontic treatment and received 0.9% saline (NaCl) injections for 21 days. All rats were sacrificed with chloroform inhalation after 21 days; their maxilla was resected, and the mean number of Howship’s lacunae, blood vessels, osteoclasts, and resorption lacunae was counted. The reduction in bone volume (bone volume to total volume ratio (BV/TV)) at the site of the maxillary molar was quantified by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). Results. OTM, the number of osteoclasts, and the number of blood vessels significantly increased in rats treated with MTX (

P
<
0.05

). However, the increase in the number of Howship’s lacunae and resorption lacunae was not significant (

P
>
0.05

). Lower BV/TV in the MTX groups was in agreement with the increased number of osteoclasts. Conclusion. Injection of MTX can significantly increase OTM and decrease root resorption in rats.
Deep Hybrid Convolutional Neural Network for Segmentation of Melanoma Skin Lesion
Authors: Yang Cheng-Hong , Ren Jai-Hong , Huang Hsiu-Chen , Chuang Li-Yeh , Chang Po-Yin
Published: November 2021

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that often leads to poor prognostic responses and survival rates. Melanoma usually develops in the limbs, including in fingers, palms, and the margins of the nails. When melanoma is detected early, surgical treatment may achieve a higher cure rate. The early diagnosis of melanoma depends on the manual segmentation of suspected lesions. However, manual segmentation can lead to problems, including misclassification and low efficiency. Therefore, it is essential to devise a method for automatic image segmentation that overcomes the aforementioned issues. In this study, an improved algorithm is proposed, termed EfficientUNet++, which is developed from the U‐Net model. In EfficientUNet++, the pretrained EfficientNet model is added to the UNet++ model to accelerate segmentation process, leading to more reliable and precise results in skin cancer image segmentation. Two skin lesion datasets were used to compare the performance of the proposed EfficientUNet++ algorithm with other common models. In the PH2 dataset, EfficientUNet++ achieved a better Dice coefficient (93% vs. 76%–91%), Intersection over Union (IoU, 96% vs. 74%–95%), and loss value (30% vs. 44%–32%) compared with other models. In the International Skin Imaging Collaboration dataset, EfficientUNet++ obtained a similar Dice coefficient (96% vs. 94%–96%) but a better IoU (94% vs. 89%–93%) and loss value (11% vs. 13%–11%) than other models. In conclusion, the EfficientUNet++ model efficiently detects skin lesions by improving composite coefficients and structurally expanding the size of the convolution network. Moreover, the use of residual units deepens the network to further improve performance.
Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori among Patients with Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT) Symptoms: A Retrospective Study at Selected Africa Air Rescue (AAR) Clinics in Kampala, Uganda, from 2015 to 2019
Authors: Namyalo Edity , Nyakarahuka Luke , Afayoa Matthias , Baziira Joel , Tamale Andrew , Atuhaire G. Collins , Kungu Joseph M.
Published: November 2021

Background. Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection is extremely common worldwide, with almost half of the world’s population infected. In Uganda, no study has been done on the trends of the prevalence of H. pylori infection in the affluent population. Therefore, this retrospective cross-sectional study aimed at determining the trend of H. pylori prevalence among affluent patients presenting with gastrointestinal (GIT) symptoms whose stool samples were tested at selected AAR clinics in Kampala area. Patients were tested for Helicobacter pylori infection using the stool antigen test between January 2015 and December 2019. Results. The overall 5-year H. pylori prevalence was 35.7% (1298/3634). The prevalence was higher in males (36.0% (736/2044)) than in females (35.4% (562/1590)), although not statistically significant (OR = 0.97, p = 0.680, 95% CI: 0.84–1.11). The prevalence of H. pylori infection was significantly higher (39.4%) among patients who belonged to the age group of 19–35 years (OR = 1.49,

p
<
0.001

, 95% CI: 1.22–1.82). The prevalence for H. pylori among the age group of 19–35, the most productive age, could be attributed to work-related factors such as stress. The highest prevalence (43.4%) was recorded in 2018 and the lowest (21.4%) in 2015; however, the trend of H. pylori infection in the 5 years was fluctuating. Conclusion. H. pylori infestation is a preserve of not only the poor but also the elites. Stressful factors, especially in the age group of 19–35 years, should be appropriately managed.
Machine Perfusion in Liver Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jakubauskas Matas , Jakubauskiene Lina , Leber Bettina , Strupas Kestutis , Stiegler Philipp , Schemmer Peter
Published: November 2021

Background: Liver transplantation (LTx) is the only treatment option for patients with end-stage liver disease. Novel organ preservation techniques such as hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) or normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) are under investigation in order to improve organ quality from extended criteria donors and donors after circulatory death. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature reporting LTx outcomes using NMP or HMP compared to static cold storage (SCS). Methods: The following data were retrieved: graft primary nonfunction rate, early allograft dysfunction (EAD) rate, biliary complication rate, and 12-month graft and patient survival. A total of 15 studies were included (6 NMP and 9 HMP studies), and meta-analysis was performed only for HMP studies because NMP had considerable differences. Results: The systematic review showed the potential of NMP to reduce graft injury and lower the liver graft discard rate. The performed quantitative analyses showed that the use of HMP reduces the rate of EAD (odds ratio [OR] 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34–0.76; p = 0.001; I2 = 0%) and non-anastomotic biliary strictures (OR 0.34; 95% CI 0.17–0.67; p = 0.002; I2 = 0%) compared to SCS. Conclusion: Our systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the use of HMP reduces the rate of EAD and non-anastomotic biliary strictures compared to SCS.
Leptomeningeal Dissemination of Low-Grade Neuroepithelial Tumor with FGFR1_TACC1 Fusion with Clinical and Radiographic Response to Pazopanib and Topotecan
Authors: Nelson Alexander T. , Bendel Anne , Skrypek Maggie , Patel Sachin , Tabori Uri , McDonald William , Schultz Kris Ann P.
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Low-grade neuroepithelial tumors are a heterogeneous group of central nervous system tumors that are generally indolent in nature but in rare instances can progress to include leptomeningeal dissemination. Case Presentation: We present a case of a patient with a low-grade neuroepithelial tumor of indeterminate type with symptomatic leptomeningeal dissemination despite 3 chemotherapy regimens and radiotherapy. Somatic targetable mutation testing showed an FGFR1_TACC1 fusion. Therapy with pazopanib/topotecan was initiated, and disease stabilization was achieved. He received pazopanib/topotecan for a total of 2 years and is now >2 years from completion of treatment and continues to do well with no evidence of disease. Discussion: This case highlights the utility of targetable mutation testing in therapeutic decision-making and the novel use of systemic pazopanib/topotecan therapy for refractory low-grade neuroepithelial tumor within the context of this clinical situation and specific mutation profile.
Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Can Predict Therapy Response of Hepatocellular Carcinoma to Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization
Authors: Drewes Ralph , Heinze Constanze , Pech Maciej , Powerski Maciej , Woidacki Katja , Wienke Andreas , Surov Alexey , Omari Jazan
Published: November 2021

Aim: The goal of this meta-analysis was to assess the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) as a pre- and posttreatment (ADC value changes [ΔADC]) predictive imaging biomarker of response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Scopus database, Embase database, and MEDLINE library were scanned for connections between pre- and posttreatment ADC values of HCC and response to TACE. Six studies qualified for inclusion. The following parameters were collected: authors, publication year, study design, number of patients, drugs for TACE, mean ADC value, standard deviation, measure method, b values, and Tesla strength. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Studies 2 instrument was employed to check the methodological quality of each study. The meta-analysis was performed by utilizing RevMan 5.3 software. DerSimonian and Laird random-effects models with inverse-variance were used to regard heterogeneity. The mean ADC values and 95% confidence intervals were computed. Results: Six studies (n = 271 patients with 293 HCC nodules) were included. The pretreatment mean ADC in the responder group was 1.20 × 10−3 mm2/s (0.98, 1.42) and 1.14 × 10−3 mm2/s (0.89, 1.39) in the nonresponder group. The analysis of post-TACE ΔADC revealed a threshold of ≥20% to identify treatment responders. No suitable pretreatment ADC threshold to predict therapy response or discriminate between responders and nonresponders before therapy could be discovered. Conclusion: ΔADC can facilitate early objective response evaluation through post-therapeutic ADC alterations ≥20%. Pretreatment ADC cannot predict response to TACE.
The Effect of the Emotional Demonstration Method of Mealing Schedule on the Knowledge of Mothers to Children in Posyandu V Mulyorejo Surabaya
Authors: Nurvitriana Nidya Comdeca , Andarwulan Setiana
Published: November 2021

Background of research on mother's knowledge of toddlers in providing feeding schedules, especially snacks. Giving snacks that are not right on schedule will have an influence on the growth and development of infants. Through the Emotional Demontration method, eating schedule for snacking can be controlled. Emotional Demonstration is the provision of education not only through lectures but also through games so that the key messages conveyed can be remembered by mothers of toddlers in Posyandu V Mulyorejo Surabaya. The Emo Demo method is one solution to reduce the stunting rate. In 2017 the stunting rate in Indonesia reached 22.2%. Based on the results of the survey conducted through interviews with nutritionists, it was explained that there were 16 stunting toddlers in Posyandu V Surabaya. Quantitative Research Methodology, a quasi-experimental research design method with one group pretest posttest approach. The population in this study were all mothers of children under five in Posyandu V Mulyorejo Surabaya as many as 36 people, samples as many as 36 mothers of toddlers. With a total sampling technique. Analyze data with Paired T-test. The results showed the mean value of the pre test was 6.06, the mean value after the post test reached 8.16. While the significance value of p value = 0,000 with α = 0.05 through the Paired T-test. The conclusion is that there are differences in the knowledge of pre and post test among mothers of children under five in Posyandu V Mulyorejo Surabaya, p value = 0,000 with α = 0.05. Suggestions for health workers to continue to make improvements in practicing emotional demonstration to participants because it is very useful in increasing knowledge to prevent increased stunting rates.
A Critical Review of the Impacts of Digital Citizenship on Teachers and Students’ Educational Development
Authors: Rahim Mohammad Naim
Published: November 2021

The teachers and students' engagement on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram, and other online and offline platforms for the purpose of teaching and learning are considered as digital citizenship in education. These social media have also exposed the users to admit several rights and mutual values. However, the enhancement of technology has motivated these citizens not only to communicate across the world but also to build platforms to practice and learn new knowledge and skills. This article is proposed to review the impacts of digital citizenship on teachers and students' educational development. Therefore, a critical review of the literature is conducted. The data is collected using Google Scholar with the scope of the topic and the criteria mainly between 2011 to 2021. The data analysis procedure and identifying codes, patterns, and similar themes have motivated the authors to present and discuss the results and findings thematically. The results show that the fundamental elements of digital citizenship are the internet, technological tools, social media, and responsible behaviors of the users on the platforms. The findings also indicate that the development of information communication technology and virtual practices are serving digital citizens to be involved in many related and unrelated activities which need to be controlled by an authentic policy. Since the growing technology of the world is transforming the paradigms including the students' needs, the layout of the classrooms, and the stakeholders' requirement for employability. Investigating these continuing needs contributes to the efforts to lead the information communication technology integration into educational circumstances and address the local and national policies, facilitating the infrastructure, enhancing the educational settings, cybersecurity issues, and privacy accountability among educators and the learners.