bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Duo-Stimulation is a Time and Cost-Effective Stimulation Method to Increase the Number of Usable Blastocysts and Ongoing Pregnancies
Authors: POHL Nyssa , WARD Madeleine , DALTON Russell
Published: November 2022

Background: Duo-stimulation is an ART method whereby a patient undergoes two rounds of ovarian stimulation within a single menstrual cycle; a follicular phase stimulation (FPS) followed by a luteal phase stimulation (LFS) a . Previous studies have indicated that adoption of the duo-stimulation method increases the occurrence of at least one euploid blastocyst from 42% to 65.5% within a single ovarian cycle b . Additional benefits of the duo-stimulation method include both time taken to achieve similar results and, in Australia, cost a .

Aim: To determine the efficacy of LPS oocyte collections, as part of a duo-stimulation cycle, in relation to; stimulation, egg collection and utilization parameters, as well as pregnancy outcomes from subsequent FET cycles.

Method: A retrospective analysis of all LPS collections as part of a duo-stimulation cycle and subsequent FET cycles undertaken at Ballarat IVF between November 2016 and April 2021 was performed.

Results: 129 duo-stimulation cycles were started, (FPS egg collection), with 118 of these progressing to a LPS collection. The average number of oocytes collected was similar with 4.8 eggs collected from FPS egg collections and 4.9 oocytes from LPS collections. Embryo utilization rates were increased in a LPS collection compared to an FPS collection, at 36.09 and 38.04 respectively. Ongoing pregnancy rates from subsequent FET cycles were also increased when embryos created from an LPS collection were transferred, 33.3% vs those created from an FPS cycle 30.6%.

Conclusion: Egg collections performed after an LPS as part of a duo-stimulation cycle are a clinically effective method to procure more usable embryos in a short period of time. The duo-stimulation method will be of increasing benefit to those women of advanced maternal age, poor responders or undergoing fertility preservation for medical reasons. The biggest benefit to patients undergoing this method is cost related; when taking into account medicare rebates, undertaking two egg collections as part of a duo-stimulation cycle is a significantly more affordable option for patients in comparison to undertaking two subsequent stimulation cycles, with similar clinical outcomes.
The Effectiveness of Intra-Uterine Platelet Rich Plasma Infusion for Improving Endometrial Thickness and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Pilot Study Analysis
Authors: POHL Nyssa , DALTON Russell
Published: November 2022

Background: Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is well researched and utilized in many medical fields to increase angiogenesis, tissue healing and regeneration a . Recent studies have reported that intra-uterine PRP infusions when used during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles, can similarly affect endometrial proliferation, resulting in decreased cycle cancellation rates and improved endometrial thickness and pregnancy outcomes in women with thin linings b , c

Aim: To establish if intra-uterine PRP infusions can increase endometrial thickness and improve pregnancy rates in women with a history of thin endometrial lining.

Method: An analysis of all PRP infusions and their FET cycles undertaken at Ballarat IVF between November 2020 and May 2021 was performed. Patients with a history of thin endometrial lining were offered a PRP infusion from day 6 of their cycle, followed by a second infusion 2-3 days later. Endometrial thickness was measured by ultrasound prior to PRP infusion, post infusion #1/prior to PRP infusion #2, and post PRP infusions, and pregnancy outcomes collected.

Results: Thirty patients were offered PRP infusions prior to their FET cycle and all 30 patients received one infusion of PRP. Twenty-six patients went on to receive a 2nd PRP infusion. Twenty-five patients had an FET, only one cycle was cancelled due to poor endometrial thickness. Average Endometrial thickness increased by 0.8mm after each PRP infusion; from 6.2mm prior to PRP infusion, to 7.0mm prior to PRP infusion #2, to 7.8mm post PRP infusions. Clinical pregnancy rates and ongoing pregnancy rates were 48%* and 24%* respectively (*two scans pending: anticipated rates 48% and 28% respectively).

Conclusion: Intra-uterine Platelet Rich Plasma infusions prior to a FET appear to offer a safe method to increase endometrial lining in women with a history of thin endometrium, allowing these cycles to proceed to an embryo transfer. Clinical pregnancy rates are increased compared to women who have no history of thin endometrial lining. Despite increased implantation, ongoing pregnancy rates (defined by a fetal heart) are decreased compared to women with no history of a thin lining. A longer-term study on a larger number of patients is required to confirm the effectiveness of this technique on live birth rates.
Mitochondrial Uncoupler BAM15 Ameliorates Associated Metabolic PCOS Traits in a Hyperandrogenic PCOS Mouse Model
Authors: RODRIGUEZ PARIS Valentina , ALEXOPOULOS Stephanie J. , HU Ying , SHAH Divya P. , AFLATOUNIAN Ali , EDWARDS Melissa C. , BERTOLDO Michael J. , GILCHRIST Robert B. , HOEHN Kyle L. , WALTERS Kirsty A.
Published: November 2022

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition characterized by endocrine, reproductive and metabolic abnormalities. There is no cure for PCOS and existing treatments are suboptimal. Obesity and adverse metabolic features are prevalent in PCOS patients, but weight loss has a beneficial effect on PCOS features. However, dietary interventions aimed at weight loss are difficult to sustain long-term. Interestingly, recent data from animal studies has shown that a mitochondrial uncoupler, BAM15, is an effective approach to pharmacologically treat obesity and metabolic diseases.

Aim: To investigate the efficacy of BAM15 to ameliorate PCOS-traits in a PCOS mouse model.

Method: The effect of BAM15 treatment on metabolic and reproductive PCOS features were evaluated in dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced PCOS mice fed a standard chow diet ± BAM15 for 10 weeks.

Results: As expected, exposure of female mice to DHT induced the PCOS metabolic features of increased body weight (P<0.05), lean mass (P<0.001), increased parametrial and mesenteric fat pad weights (P<0.05) and adipocyte hypertrophy (P<0.05). DHT-induced PCOS mice also exhibited increased HOMA-IR, cholesterol and fasting triglyceride levels and hepatic steatosis (all P<0.05). Conversely, DHT-induced PCOS females treated with BAM15 displayed lowered body weights similar with controls, a significant decrease in parametrial and mesenteric fat depot weights (P<0.05) and reduced adipocyte hypertrophy. Likewise, BAM15 treatment decreased HOMA-IR, cholesterol and fasting triglyceride levels and the degree of hepatic steatosis observed in PCOS females, to levels comparable with control females. Lastly, PCOS mice presented the reproductive PCOS traits of irregular cycles and ovulatory dysfunction, though BAM15 treatment did not improve these PCOS features.

Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that the pharmacologic mitochondrial uncoupler BAM15 is able to ameliorate metabolic PCOS features in a PCOS mouse model. These data provide evidence to support BAM15 as a potential innovative therapeutic approach to manage associated metabolic PCOS features.
Is There an Increased Incidence of Aneuploid Embryos in Cases of Obstructive and Non-Obstructive Azoospermia?
Authors: SOLE Sally , WILLATS Elissa , GREEN Mark , ROMBAUTS Luk , KATZ Darren , ZANDER-FOX Deirdre , HORTA Fabrizzio
Published: November 2022

Background: Current evidence supports that males with low spermatozoa concentrations, as well as obstructive azoospermia (OA) or non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), present with high rates of aneuploid spermatozoa. This issue could potentially lead to an increased number of aneuploid embryos in subsequent ICSI cycles using surgically retrieved spermatozoa, however, azoospermia is not routinely considered to be a clinical indication for pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A).

Aim: To identify the incidence of aneuploid embryos in PGT-A cycles that used testicular spermatozoa extracted through surgical sperm retrieval (SSR). In addition, whether aneuploidy rates differed between embryos fertilised with SSR compared with ejaculated spermatozoa.

Method: A retrospective study of OA and NOA patients who underwent SSR between March 2017 and September 2020 and had PGT-A cycles. Next-generation sequencing was employed to detect embryo aneuploidies. Data were compared and analysed using a chi-square test with PGT-A cycles using ejaculated spermatozoa within the same time-period.

Results: A total of 57 males underwent SSR, leading to 68 cycles that included the use of PGT-A. A total of 152 embryos with conclusive results identified there to be 57.2% euploid embryos (87/152) and 38.2% aneuploid embryos (58/152) in the SSR group. In comparison, the ejaculated spermatozoa group resulted in 59.2% (2115/3677) euploid embryos and 35.7% (1312/3677) aneuploid embryos. The incidence of aneuploid embryos (38.2%) in the SSR group was not statistically significant [Odds ratio: 1.11 (0.79-1.56) p=0.53]. Importantly, there were no differences for mean maternal age for both study groups (SSR female partners: 36.7 years; ejaculated spermatozoa female partners: 37.1 years; p>0.1).

Conclusion: The current outcomes indicate there is not an increased incidence of aneuploid embryos in PGT-A cycles of men who underwent to SSR compared with men using ejaculated spermatozoa.
The Race to Equilibrate
Authors: GLAGE Eve , DEAN Casey , GUNASEGARAN Kavya , SORBY Kelli
Published: November 2022

Background: While it is well documented that culture in hypoxic conditions produces superior outcomes, the mechanics of establishing such conditions within the embryo’s liquid environment is less clear.

It is not uncommon for laboratories, while ‘culturing’ in low-oxygen, to equilibrate dishes in CO2 only environments prior to use, meaning embryos are exposed to high oxygen tension in their media even after placing into the hypoxic environment, but for how long is so far unclear.

Aim: To assess the equilibration rate of oxygen within embryo culture media when exposed to hypoxic conditions.

Method: A handheld blood gas analyser (EPOC system, ‘BGEM’ cartridges) was used to determine the pO2 of G1+ culture media after exposure to a reduced oxygen environment.

Results: Culture media in atmospheric oxygen (with or without the presence of CO2) showed mean pO2 values of 150mmHg.

Media fully equilibrated over 24 hours in 5% oxygen fell to approximately 70mmHg. This was well above the theoretically expected value but shown to be consistent across multiple measurements including various dish and incubator types.

Initial equilibration to hypoxic conditions occurred relatively rapidly, with dishes undergoing 50% of the required oxygen reduction in only 30 minutes. Within 1.5 hours of exposure 5% O2, media achieved 83% of the required change, with full equilibration reached at approximately 2.5 hours.

Pre-equilibration of dishes in 6% CO2 did not appear to affect the oxygen diffusion rate compared with non-equilibrated media.

Oxygen exhibited similarly rapid diffusion into culture media when dishes equilibrated at 5% O2 were exposed to atmospheric conditions, with pO2 increasing by 1.46mmHg per minute.

Conclusion: The diffusion rate of oxygen appears to be significantly faster than the more widely studied CO2, however, oxygen tension in media still requires greater than 2 hours to reach optimum levels, requiring us to consider oxygen in our equilibration practices.
Investigation into Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Infusions Within the Intrauterine Cavity, to Support the Development of Endometrial Lining in Transfer Cycle Patients
Authors: ALCOCK Jenyne , BURMEISTER Dr Lynn , ZHANG Shelley , GLAGE Eve , SORBY Kelli
Published: November 2022

Background: Poor endometrial lining is classically referenced as <6mm. Patients commencing Embryo Transfer (ET) cycles can experience issues with lining development and require additional therapy supplementation with the aim of increasing lining thickness prior to ET day. PRP is an adjuvant IVF treatment, known as an infusion therapy, for use in uterine lining development support with the specific aim of increasing endometrial lining outcomes for patients prior to ET.

Aim: To assess the effectiveness of PRP infusion therapy on lining development for ET cycle patients.

Method: Using the TGA approved Alocuro PRP medical device system, 10mls of whole blood is collected via venepuncture, this sample is centrifuged, to produce 3 identifiable layers; Plasma, Buffy coat and Packed red blood cells.

The Buffy coat is collected with 1ml of Plasma and administered via Intrauterine Infusion with an Embryo Transfer Catheter set.

Patients are offered this procedure based on clinical histories of poor lining outcomes.

Retrospective analysis of all patients undertaking PRP infusion, included assessment of uterine thickness, was conducted.

Results: A total of 35 records were identified, of these 2 were cancelled prior to administration of PRP and 7 were removed due to incomplete records of Initial Lining measurement or Final Lining measurement.

In the remaining cohort of 26 patients, 2 patients demonstrated regression in their lining, while 24 patients recorded an increase in final lining measurement, with a mean increase of 2mm or 28% over initial lining measurements.

When compared with their previous cycle, PRP infusion cycles demonstrated a greater increase in lining thickness between scans, 0.82mm and 1.78mm respectively (p=0.018).

Conclusion: PRP treatment appears to show potential in the treatment of poor lining development and warrants further study.
Illuminating the Artefacts of NGS Seen in PGT-A & PGT-SR
Authors: TILLEY Sam , PACELLA-INCE Leanne , HARDY Tristan , FULLSTON Tod
Published: November 2022

Background: Advancements in next generation sequencing (NGS) based genomics over the past 10 years have allowed the routine adoption of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), and/or segmental rearrangements (PGT-SR) of [Formula: see text]10Mb 1 in the assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinic. However, one challenge remains within the assessment of aligned short read sequencing data, in the ability to discriminate between embryonic profiles with genuine pathological copy number variations (CNVs) from artefacts arising from erroneous DNA amplification or library preparation.

Aim: To identify the common artefacts seen in next generation sequencing (NGS) based PGT to reduce inconclusive or false positive results.

Method: NGS profiles generated from biopsied human embryonic trophectoderm cells were manually analysed for common genomic artefacts. Following trophectoderm biopsy within a clinical ART cycle, cell samples underwent DNA amplification (Illumina SureplexTM DNA amplification system), sequencing (VeriSeqTM PGS kit on the MiSeq[Formula: see text] System, and bioinformatic data analysis (Bluefuse Multi v4.4, Illumina).

Results: Common artefacts were identified affecting chromosomes 7, 11, and 19. Artefacts imitated small CNVs typically displaying a [Formula: see text]50% increase in centromeric sequence counts on chromosomes 7 and 11, and a global increase of sequence counts of [Formula: see text]40% across the entire chromosome 19 (except at the centromere, presenting as diploid). Interestingly a technical repeat of the library preparation and sequencing of the original DNA template somewhat normalised these artefacts.

Conclusion: The study found three commonly occurring artefacts involving chromosomes 7, 11, and 19 artificially introduced during suboptimal NGS library preparation. Importantly these artefacts may be normalised through technical repeat of library preparation and sequencing. The awareness of these artefacts may reduce false positive and/or inconclusive results, increasing clinical embryonic utilisation following PGT.
Research of College English Online Course Based on Cloud Computing and Exploitation for Multimedia Asian Information Processing
Authors: Xiao Hongfang , V E Sathishkumar , Manickam Adhiyaman
Published: November 2022

In today's techno world,teachers worldwide can learn the world-famous masterclasses and access all sorts of courses for school teachers. Learners have more learning opportunities based on the excellent sharing of resources. Technical support is provided in developing the Fuzzy Integrated Cloud Computing Framework (FICCF) to develop Online Courses. This paper explores the educational capabilities of cloud computing, the real-time contact between teachers and students, studying, and heterogeneous terminal access to track evaluation-based fuzzy variables. It addresses the benefits of open-ended modes, creating an English course design system in a cloud-based environment, modifying lecture mode, and reforming the English course design mode. The experimental result shows that the proposed cloud computing framework has better efficiency in developing and promoting English online courses.The self-learning systems make it possible to provide the best possible learning environment. It ensures that sensitive data generated by an application is deleted, and this feature ensures accuracy.
Determination of Diethylstilbestrol in Environmental Water Based on Co(II)-Sensitized Electrochemical Sensing
Authors: Zeng Wanpen , Qiu Jiao , Chen Wen , Li Zhukun
Published: November 2022

In this research, a simple electrochemical sensor (c-MWCNTs/Nafion/GCE) was prepared by carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotube, perfluorosulfonic acid polymer and glassy carbon electrode using drop coating method, and based on the obvious sensitization effect on the redox peak current of diethylstilbestrol (DES) in the presence of Co2+, a new electrochemical sensing method for the determination of DES in water was established. In a buffered solution of 0.2 mol l−1 NaH2PO4-Na2HPO4 at pH = 7.0, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was used when the Co2+ concentration was 20 μmol l−1. Under the optimized conditions of −0.2 ∼ −0.4 V (vs SCE), −0.2 V enrichment potential, and 120 s enrichment time, the concentration of DES showed a good linear relationship with the peak current over the range of 0.3 to 90 μmol l−1, and the detection limit(S/N = 3) was 0.01 μmol l−1. The actual water sample was detected, and the recovery was between 89.17% and 101.23%. This method had the characteristics of simple operation, low analysis cost and fast analysis speed, and had the potential application value of detecting DES in environmental water.
Effect of Microstructure of Low-Alloy Steel on Corrosion Propagation in a Simulated CO2 Environment
Authors: Gupta Kapil K. , Yazdi Rouhollah , Styrk-Geisler Mathias , Mishin Oleg V. , Ambat Rajan
Published: November 2022

The paper focuses on the analysis of initiation and propagation of CO2 corrosion in several samples of low-alloy steel with different microstructures using scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and other microscopy techniques. It is found that the corrosion rate and the mode of corrosion are highly sensitive to the microstructure. The overall current density is much higher and more uniformly distributed for the tempered martensite structure than for samples having either a ferritic-pearlitic microstructure or a microstructure combining ferritic, bainitic and martensitic-austenitic regions. As a result, the sample with the tempered martensite structure undergoes uniform corrosion, while the other two samples undergo selective corrosion. The SECM maps show that regions of polygonal ferrite generate larger anodic currents than the pearlitic structure in the early stages of corrosion. The residual cementite provides greater cathodic surface areas after the initial dissolution of ferritic lamellae within pearlite, promoting galvanic corrosion and subsequently enhanced dissolution of ferritic lamellae. According to SECM data, the dissolution of iron in polygonal ferritic grains is 2.4 times faster than that of ferritic lamellae in pearlitic regions.
Colors and Learner’s Gender Evoke Different Emotional and Cognitive Effects in Multimedia Learning
Authors: Liew Tze Wei , Tan Su-Mae , Gan Chin Lay , Pang Wei Ming
Published: November 2022

The emotional design principle avers that highly saturated warm colors in multimedia learning presentations can elevate affective-motivational, cognitive, and learning outcomes. While warm and achromatic grayscale color tones have been explored extensively, relatively less research examines the effects of cold colors in multimedia learning. This study explores how color tones (warm, cold, and achromatic grayscale) and learners’ gender influence positive emotions, intrinsic motivation, cognitive load, and transfer performance. An online experiment was conducted where learners pursuing IT courses in an Asian university (n=204) engaged with either one of the multimedia learning lessons on distributed denial-of-service attack imbued with (1) a warm color tone, (2) a cold color tone, and (3) an achromatic grayscale color tone. Findings show that the cold color tone was associated with fewer enhanced positive emotion types than the other color tones. Compared to the achromatic grayscale color tone (M=2.38,SD=1.88), significantly higher extraneous cognitive load ratings were observed with the warm color tone (M=3.26,SD=1.96) and the cold color tone (M=3.24,SD=2.18). Following reports by some learners, this could be attributed to the overly vivid and saturated chromatic colors impairing the learners’ visual and cognitive processes, causing them to rate the multimedia learning experience with warm and cold color tones as more difficult than with the achromatic grayscale color tone. Male learners in the warm color tone condition (M=4.93,SD=3.46) performed marginally better on the transfer posttest than male learners in the cold color tone condition (M=3.49,SD=3.45) and male learners in the achromatic grayscale color tone condition (M=3.44,SD=2.69). In contrast, female learners in the warm color tone condition (M=1.75,SD=1.62) performed marginally worse than female learners in the cold color tone condition (M=3.83,SD=3.92) and significantly worse than female learners in the achromatic grayscale color tone condition (M=3.67,SD=2.50). Overall, these results show that gender can shape the effects of warm colors on learning—the warm color tone can enhance male learners’ but stifle female learners’ transfer performance. Moreover, this study aligns with recent studies that colors as an emotional design feature may lead to higher cognitive load ratings. This paper discusses the theoretical and practical implications and submits a future outlook for broadening the research domain.
Biochemical Composition Variation among Southern Ethiopian Arabica Coffee (Coffea arabica L.) Genotypes
Authors: Degefa Meseret , Alamerew Sentayehu , Mohammed Ali , Gemechu Adeba
Published: November 2022

Coffee (Coffea arabica L.) provides several health benefits to users due to its strong medicinal and nutritional properties and caloric value. Green bean proximate composition diversity is unknown among the coffee genotypes now cultivated in southern Ethiopia. The study’s major goals are to determine the variability in green bean proximate composition among coffee genotypes and to see if there are any relationships between green bean proximate attributes. Therefore, a nutritional laboratory experiment was carried out at Jimma University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine (JUCAVM). Using the augmented design, a total of 104 entries were examined, including 100 accessions from southern Ethiopia and four standard checks. Each accession had data on 07 proximate composition parameters of green beans. The presence of significant (

P
<
0.05

) differences among the examined accessions for most of the traits considered was revealed by analysis of variance, and a wide range of variation was detected for several traits, indicating that the coffee germplasm accessions have high genetic variability. According to the findings, coffee beans have crude protein (6.93 to 10.14%), total lipids (8.89 to 16.08%), crude ash (2.51–5.47%), crude fiber (6.79–22.25%), dry matter (89.08 to 91.63%), carbohydrate (40.65 to 59.38%), and caloric value (307.39–382.77 k/calories). One hundred four arabica coffee accessions were grouped into ten distinct groups by 20 (19.23%), 21 (20.19%), 39 (37.50%), 12 (11.54%), 04 (3.85%), 03 (2.88%), 02 (1.92%), 01 (0.96%), 01 (0.96%), and 01 (0.96%). The majority of intercluster distances were significantly varied, showing that diversity exists that can be utilized through selection and hybridization. Clusters III and X had the greatest intercluster distance (D2 = 344.16), followed by clusters II and X (D2 = 236.33), VII and X (D2 = 199.04), and clusters VI and I (D2 = 106.25). Clusters I and IV had the smallest intercluster distance (D2 = 10.09), followed by II and IV (D2 = 10.66), and I and VI (D2 = 11.03). The first three principal components with eigenvalues larger than one explained 71.84% of the overall variation. In general, genotypes differed in green bean proximate composition and might be used as gene sources to generate future green bean varieties with appropriate biochemical composition.
Bidirectional Virtual Inertia Control Strategy for Hybrid Distributed Generations Integrated Distribution Systems
Authors: Liu Dan , Ye Chang , Wu Yingzi , Ji Xiaotong , Xia Yongjun , Kang Yiqun , Liu Ziwen
Published: November 2022

The bidirectional ac/dc converter between the ac and dc subgrids plays a crucial role in enhancing the inertia support ability and ensuring the stable operation of the hybrid ac/dc distribution systems. In this paper, the bidirectional virtual inertia control strategy of hybrid distributed generations (DGs) integrated distribution systems is proposed for desired inertia support ability of both ac frequency and dc voltage. Firstly, the active power droop characteristics of the bidirectional ac/dc converter are analyzed, which reveals the steady power-sharing relationship between the ac and dc subgrids. Then, based on the dynamic power balance of the bidirectional ac/dc converter, the bidirectional virtual inertia control is proposed by introducing the virtual capacitor and moment of inertia, which can enhance the interactive inertia support ability of the hybrid distribution system. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is verified with a hybrid DGs integrated distribution simulation system in the PSCAD platform.
Investigating the Thermo-Physiological Comfort Properties of Weft-Knitted Smart Structures Having a Negative Poisson’s Ratio
Authors: Anas Muhammad Sohaib , Awais Habib , Ali Hamdani Syed Talha , Shaker Khubab , Azam Zeeshan , Nawab Yasir
Published: November 2022

Smart auxetic structures are gaining attention in various areas such as architecture, clothing (sports and protective), civil, and medical applications owing to their negative Poisson’s ratio. Compared to ordinary structures, these structures have better properties (shear resistance, formability, energy absorbance, and robust fracture strength). Auxetic structures show the exceptional property of becoming wider in one direction when stretched from another direction. In this research, three different auxetic weft-knitted structures were fabricated using nylon, polyester, acrylic, and cotton yarns on a Shima Seiki flat-knitting machine. The physical properties, negative Poisson’s ratio, and thermo-physiological comfort properties of these fabrics were checked. Negative Poisson’s ratio strain curves of the developed fabrics were plotted; all fabrics, except for nylon, show the negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR). The NPR decreases with increased strain in the longitudinal direction, and polyester exhibits a maximum value of NPR −0.4 in line structure at 30 mm extension. Results also revealed that structures made with nylon and polyester yarns exhibit a better value of air permeability than acrylic and cotton, while acrylic provides the best thermal resistance values than other materials in line structure and polyester yarn shows better overall moisture management capacity (OMMC) performance in zigzag structures.
The Role of Combining Probiotics in Preventing and Controlling Inflammation: A Focus on the Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects of Probiotics in an In Vitro Model of IBD
Authors: Aghamohammad Shadi , Sepehr Amin , Miri Seyedeh Tina , Najafi Saeideh , Pourshafie Mohammad R. , Rohani Mahdi
Published: November 2022

Objective. IBD is an inflammatory disease with abnormalities such as dysbiosis and abnormal immune system activity. Probiotics, as live beneficial microorganisms, play a role in maintaining health through various mechanisms, including the modulation of the immune system and the control of inflammation. Here, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of a probiotic mixture of Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. in modulating JAK/STAT and NF-kB inflammatory signaling pathways. Method. A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was conducted to analyze the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes after treatment with the probiotic mixture before, after, and simultaneously with the sonicated pathogen in the HT-29 cell line. The production of IL-6 and IL-1β after probiotic treatment was investigated via cytokine assay. Results. Treatment with probiotics resulted in downregulation of TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway and JAK/STAT genes compared with sonicat-treated cells as inflammation inducers. The production of IL-6 and IL-1 decreased after probiotic treatment. Conclusions. The probiotic mixture of Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. showed anti-inflammatory effects by modulating JAK/STAT and NF-kB signaling pathways. The use of probiotics could be considered as an appropriate complementary treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
The Curious Case of Lip Tongue Fusion: A Consequence of Suboptimal Oral Care
Authors: Xu Jimmy , Biyani Prateek , Rajkumar Andrew , Orr Robert
Published: November 2022

Oral care is an often difficult and an unappreciated part of hospital life. Patients who are unable to provide their own care rely on assistance from hospital personnel. Most sequelae from suboptimal oral care often present over months if not years, in the form of dental caries and periodontal disease. We present an exception, where a 66-year-old patient who experienced widespread ulceration and necrosis from Capnocytophaga-related sepsis received suboptimal oral care, resulting in their tongue being fused to their lip. This was later divided by the oral and maxillofacial team resulting in restoration of full function. Future cases can be avoided in patients with similar symptoms, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or erythema multiforme, if rigorous oral care can be provided.
ncRNA‐Regulated LAYN Serves as a Prognostic Biomarker and Correlates with Immune Cell Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Cao Liangbin , Zhu Lingling , Cheng Li
Published: November 2022

Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) remains a lethal disease for humans. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD1/PD‐L1 and CTLA4 offered new hopes for advanced‐stage patients. Novel immune biomarkers and therapeutic targets are urgently needed. For the first time, we evaluated the expression and prognostic value of Layilin (LAYN) using in silico analyses and uncovered the carcinogenic role of LAYN in LIHC. The HCG18/hsa‐mir‐148a/LAYN axis was predicted as the upstream mechanism. Moreover, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that LAYN and its coexpressed genes primarily participated in immune response pathways, and LAYN expression was found significantly correlated with tumor immune cell infiltration in LIHC tissues. In general, our data provided evidence that HCG18/hsa‐mir‐148a‐regulated high expression of LAYN is associated with immune cell infiltration and unfavorable prognosis of LIHC patients.
Fault Detection and Classification of a Photovoltaic Generator Using the BES Optimization Algorithm Associated with SVM
Authors: Koloko R. J. Koloko , Ele P. , Wamkeue R. , Melingui A.
Published: November 2022

In this work, an innovative approach based on the estimation of the photovoltaic generator (GPV) parameters from the Bald Eagle Search (BES) optimization algorithm, associated with a support vector machine (SVM) classification algorithm, allowed to highlight a new tool for the classification of the signatures of shading and moisture PV defects. It recognizes signatures generated by the GPV in healthy and erroneous operation using the optimized parametric vector and classifies defects using the same optimized vector. The technique emphasizes the resilience of parameter estimate in terms of error on all parameters. The classification accuracy is 93%. The residuals between the estimated curve in healthy operation with a minimum error of the order of 10-4 and the one at fault are used as an indicator of faults.
Lucidumol A, Purified Directly from Ganoderma lucidum, Exhibits Anticancer Effect and Cellular Inflammatory Response in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Shin Min-Ji , Chae Hae-Jung , Lee Ji Won , Koo Man Hyung , Kim Hyun-Jin , Seo Jong Bae , yanIllia Shagin , Park Sang Hee , Lo Han En , Kim Sung-Hak , Youn Ui Joung , Jeon Young-Jun , Suh Sung-Suk
Published: November 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a deadly disease regardless of sex, and a few therapeutic approaches have been fully developed at advanced stages, even if some strategies have durable clinical benefits, such as immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Ganoderma lucidum has been recognized as an organism that suppresses tumors and inflammation; however, the molecular mechanisms induced by a triterpenoid in Ganoderma lucidum, Lucidumol A, have not yet been fully explored in CRC and inflammatory responses. To this end, we extracted Lucidumol A from Ganoderma lucidum and analyzed its anticancer effect and anti-inflammatory potential in CRC cell lines and RAW264.7 macrophage-derived cell lines, respectively. A series of in vitro experiments including cell survival, wound healing, and migration assays were performed to determine the role of Lucidumol A in the CRC cell line. We also analyzed inflammatory responses using qRT-PCR, Western Blot, and ELISA in RAW 264.7 macrophaged-derived cell lines exposed to various concentrations of Lucidumol A. Lucidumol A efficiently suppressed the metastatic potential of CRC at very low concentrations. Furthermore, significant anti-inflammatory activities were observed in Lucidumol A-treated RAW264.7 cells through modulation of inflammation-associated marker genes and cytokines. In conclusion, Lucidumol A plays an important role in Ganoderma lucidum-dependent tumor suppression and anti-inflammation, suggesting different strategies to treat CRC patients, and other diseases evoked by proinflammatory cytokines, despite the need to explore further its mechanism of action.
Topic Analysis and Mapping of Tuberculosis Research Using Text Mining and Co-Word Analysis
Authors: Dastani Meisam , Mohammadzadeh Alireza , Mardaneh Jalal , Ahmadi Reza
Published: November 2022

Tuberculosis is still one of the most severe progressive diseases; it severely limits the social and economic development of many countries. In the present study, the topic trend of scientific publications on tuberculosis has been examined using text mining techniques and co-word analysis with an analytical approach. The statistical population of the study is all global publications related to tuberculosis. In order to extract the data, the Scopus citation database was used for the period 1900 to 2022. The main keywords for the search strategy were chosen through consultation with thematic specialists and using MESH. Python programming language and VOSviewer software were applied to analyze data. The results showed four main topics as follows: “Clinical symptoms” (41.8%), “Diagnosis and treatment” (28.1%), “Bacterial structure, pathogenicity and genetics” (22.3%), and “Prevention” (7.84%). The results of this study can be helpful in the decision of this organization and knowledge of the process of studies on tuberculosis and investment and development of programs and guidelines against this disease.
Prevalence of HIV/AIDS Infection among Sexually Active Women in Ethiopia: Further Analysis of 2016 EDHS
Authors: Mulugeta Solomon Sisay , Wassihun Selamawit Getachew
Published: November 2022

Background. The issue of HIV/AIDS is prevalent around the world and in Ethiopia as well. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of HIV/AIDS infection among sexually active women in Ethiopia. Methods. For this study, data were obtained from the Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey conducted in 2016. This study contains 11,729 women who have had at least one episode of sexual intercourse in their lifetime. Interviewers for voluntary HIV testing collected finger-prick blood specimens from women who agreed to be tested for HIV. Based on factors at the individual and community levels, a multilevel logistic regression model was used. Results. The study found that 2% of 11,729 sexually active women tested positive for HIV from all regions who received voluntary counseling and testing. The intraclass correlation coefficient findings showed that 32.844% of HIV/AIDS transmission among sexually active women was the result of community-level factors. Variables at the individual level were women of age 16–24 (AOR = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.11–0.29), women of age 25–34 (AOR = 0.733; 95% CI: 0.55–0.98), women with primary education level (AOR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.23–2.57), more than one sexual accomplice (AOR = 1.33; 95% CI: 0.613–2.87), and women’s age at first sexual intercourse between 25 and 34 (AOR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.301, 1.06); these were the most significant determinants of HIV/AIDS infection. According to community-level factors, there was a lower HIV prevalence rate among rural women (AOR = 0.22; 95 percent CI: 0.13–0.36), and women in the Gambela region (AOR = 4.1; 95 percent CI: 1.99–8.34) also had higher HIV prevalence rates. Conclusions. The prevalence of HIV infection among sexually active women varies by region, with urban women more likely to contract the virus. Women who had more than one regular sexual partner and had their first sexual encounter at a younger age are at an increased risk of contracting HIV/AIDS. According to the study, the government should focus more support on high-risk clusters, mainly in urban areas, as well as on regions with high rates of HIV/AIDS infection.
Evolutionary Game and Simulation in Forest Rights Exchange Based on the Supplier-Demander View
Authors: Lin Junjie , Zhang Qun , Wei Yuanzhu
Published: November 2022

At present, the forest rights exchange market in China is in its early stages. Forest rights exchange faces low circulation problems. The strategic choices of supply and demand play an important role in enhancing the efficiency of forest rights exchange. However, only limited empirical evidence has been provided on the strategic selection of forest rights exchange from the perspective of the dynamic game. Based on field investigation, this study constructed a dynamic game model and explored the dynamic evolution process of different strategic behaviors based on evolutionary game theory. Furthermore, a numerical simulation was conducted to evaluate the rationality of the theoretical model. The results show that several factors affected the strategies of transaction subjects including transaction price, transaction cost, forestry revenue, and nonforestry revenue. These factors are important means to regulating the forest rights exchange. In terms of policy implications, we suggest that diversity measures should also be considered to formulate policies of transaction price management and to encourage forestland owners to exchange forestland with enterprises and cooperatives. Moreover, additional efforts are needed to establish and improve the forest rights exchange market.
Primary Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Diagnostic Challenges of This Lethal Imposter
Authors: Dusseault Sonya K. , Okobi Okelue Edwards , Thakral Nimish , Sankar Vignesh , Gunawardene Ishan , Dawkins Bryan , Abu Yaw , Davis Barry
Published: November 2022

Primary Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a rapidly aggressive and rare neoplasm that arises from the lining of mesothelial cells of the peritoneum and spreads extensively within the confines of the abdominal cavity. The pathogenesis of all forms of mesothelioma is strongly associated with industrial pollutants, of which asbestos is the principal carcinogen. Characteristically, asbestos exposure has a strong relationship with mesothelioma of the pleura, but the peritoneal cavity is the second most commonly affected site. Additionally, in contrast to pleural mesothelioma, which has a male predominance (male-female ratio of between four and five to one), women comprise approximately one-half of all cases of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. A thorough history of occupational/paraoccupational exposure along with histopathology is the key to timely diagnosis and treatment.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding from Dieulafoy’s Lesion in the Cecum
Authors: Dokmak Amr , Muso Ergen
Published: November 2022

Dieulafoy’s lesion is a rare cause of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding comprising approximately 2% of all acute GI bleeds. It is an abnormal submucosal artery that has a tortuous course before protruding through the mucosa and leading to hemorrhage. Dieulafoy’s lesions are most commonly located in the upper GI tract within the lesser curvature of the stomach. Lower GI tract Dieulafoy’s lesions are remarkably rare. Our case describes an elderly gentleman who presented with fatigue and dyspnea several days prior to experiencing any evidence of GI bleeding. Initial laboratory investigation revealed severe anemia, requiring packed red blood cell transfusion. Endoscopic examination revealed a cecal Dieulafoy’s lesion with active spurting of blood. Hemostasis was achieved through local epinephrine injection and hemostatic clipping. Previously reported cases of cecal Dieulafoy’s lesions involve variable presentations including hematochezia, melena, or bright red blood per rectum. These lesions can be treated by angiography, surgically, or endoscopically via techniques that include epinephrine or ethanol injection, argon plasma coagulation, heater probe coagulation, hemostatic clips, or band ligation. Dieulafoy’s lesions of the lower GI tract should be considered when no clear culprit is discovered, particularly with the concomitant use of antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants.
Metastatic BRAF V600E-Mutated Thyroid Carcinoma: Molecular/Genetic Profiling Brings a New Therapeutic Option
Authors: Reis Joana S. , Costa Inês , Costa Mariana , Valente Ana Carmo , Freitas Marta Baptista , Almeida Catarina Lopes , Gonçalves Marina , Teixeira Carina , Ribeiro Maria , Caeiro Cláudia , Fernandes Catarina , Barbosa Miguel
Published: November 2022

We describe a case of a 46-year-old woman diagnosed with localized PTC 20 years ago, having already undergone several treatments with iodine-131 and then treatment with lenvatinib for metastatic disease, to which she developed intolerance. In 2020, in addition to pleural, thoracic, and abdominal lymph node metastasis, progression with symptomatic vertebral bone metastasis was detected, which led to the equation of new therapeutic options. In this context, a genetic/molecular test was carried out, which identified the BRAF V600E mutation and enabled the start of treatment with dabrafenib/trametinib since June 2020. This treatment allowed functional gain, symptomatic relief, and stabilization of the disease. It demonstrates how, in rare tumors, the personalized medicine approach can bring new treatment possibilities.
Sequential Combination of FLAM and Venetoclax plus Azacitidine to Bridge to Cord Blood Transplantation in a Patient with Primary Induction Failure Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Murakami Hiroyuki , Matsuoka Ken-ichi , Asano Takeru , Moriyama Takashi , Matsumura Akifumi , Fujiwara Hideaki , Asada Noboru , Ennishi Daisuke , Nishimori Hisakazu , Fujii Keiko , Fujii Nobuharu , Toji Tomohiro , Yoshino Tadashi , Maeda Yoshinobu
Published: November 2022

Venetoclax (VEN) is an oral B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) inhibitor that has been widely used to treat various hematological disorders. Recent studies have demonstrated that VEN in combination with fludarabine-enhanced high-dose cytarabine (FLA) is effective for treating relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In the combination therapy, salvage chemotherapy and VEN are basically concurrently administrated; however, further optimization may enable the treatment to apply to larger numbers of patients with various clinical backgrounds. Here, we describe a case of refractory AML treated with a sequential combination of the intensive chemotherapy (fludarabine, cytarabine, and mitoxantrone; FLAM) and VEN/AZA to bridge to an unrelated cord blood transplantation (uCBT). By continuously adding VEN/AZA after FLAM, the patient achieved morphologic leukemia free state with only minor toxicities. Blood cell counts did not recover until the time of transplantation because of the deep myelosuppression caused by the treatment sequence, but the infection risk was safely managed during this period. After engraftment, maintenance therapy with VEN/AZA was performed, and the patient has survived without disease recurrence for over 9 months after transplantation. Our case suggests that bridging therapy with VEN and AZA from the time of the last chemotherapy to allogeneic transplantation may provide an effective and tolerable treatment strategy for refractory AML. Further studies of larger numbers of cases are needed to validate the effectiveness of this treatment.
Unusually Aggressive Presentation of Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Two Case Reports
Authors: Neff Dominik , Padberg Sgier Barbara-Christina , Dietze Hannah , Müller Joachim , Früh Martin
Published: November 2022

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare disease. Patients mainly present with abdominal distension, pain, nausea, and weight loss with or without an exposure history of asbestos. Diagnosis may be difficult from a clinical and histopathologic perspective. Treatment options are surgery in early stages, radiotherapy and/or intraperitoneal or systemic therapy. Prognosis depends on TNM stage and histologic subtype with epithelioid subtype being the most favorable one but in general remains poor. We present a 59-year-old male (patient 1) and a 79-year-old female (patient 2) with progressive dyspnea. PET-CT of patient 1 revealed metastatic spread in the pleura and extensive peritoneal carcinomatosis. PET-CT of patient 2 displayed FDG-avid lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm, polyserositis, and FDG uptake along the peritoneum. Both patients were eventually diagnosed with malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. Patient 1 was treated with carboplatin and gemcitabine, and patient 2 received no systemic therapy. Even though the epithelioid subtype was found, both patients succumbed due to rapid tumor progression in a matter of a few weeks only. Presentation with polyserositis even in the absence of relevant asbestos exposure may represent malignant peritoneal mesothelioma if ascites is present, and rapid invasive diagnostic (excision biopsy) should be performed. These two unusual cases emphasize that even in epithelioid subtype, clinicians ought to be aware of possible rapid clinical deterioration, and timely diagnosis with initiation of therapy is crucial. Further research is necessary to better understand tumor biology, establish predictive markers, and develop new treatment options.