bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dithiolethiones D3T and ACDT protect against iron overload-induced cytotoxicity and serve as ferroptosis inhibitors in U-87 MG cells
Authors: Kulkarni Neha , Gadde Rajitha , Betharia Swati
Published: January 2023

Iron overload-induced oxidative stress is implicated in various neurodegenerative disorders. Given the numerous adverse effects associated with current iron chelators, natural antioxidants are being explored as alternative therapeutic options. Dithiolethiones found in cruciferous vegetables have emerged as promising candidates against a wide range of toxicants owing to their lipophilic and cytoprotective properties. Here, we test the dithiolethiones D3T and ACDT against ferric ammonium citrate (FAC)-induced toxicity in U-87 MG astrocytoma cells. Exposure to 15 mM FAC for 24 hours resulted in 54% cell death. A 24-hour pretreatment with 50 µM D3T and ACDT prevented this cytotoxicity. Both dithiolethiones exhibited antioxidant effects by activating the Nrf2 transcription factor and upregulating levels of intracellular glutathione (GSH). This resulted in the successful inhibition of FAC-induced reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, and cell death. Additionally, D3T and ACDT upregulated expression of the Nrf2-mediated iron storage protein ferritin which consequently reduced the total labile iron pool. A 24-hour pretreatment with D3T and ACDT also prevented cell death induced by the ferroptosis inducer erastin by upregulating the xCT transporter expression. The resulting increase in intracellular GSH and alleviation of lipid peroxidation was comparable to that caused by ferrostatin-1, a specific ferroptosis inhibitor. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that dithiolethiones may show promise as potential therapeutic options for the treatment of iron overload disorders.
Risk prediction model construction for heart failure after myocardial infarction by immune B cells in blood
Authors: Sun HouRong , Kong XiangJin , Meng LingWei , Hao Jie , Xi Yue , Wei KaiMing , Li GuanNan , Lv Xin , Zou Xin , Gu XingHua
Published: January 2023

With a high prevalence of morbidity and mortality, myocardial infarction (MI) is a prevalent heart disease. The development and outcomes of post-MI heart failure (HF) continue to be a major factor in the poor post-MI prognosis despite the extensive medical treatment for MI. There are currently few indicators that can accurately predict post-MI heart failure. In this study, we re-examined single cell RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq datasets collected from peripheral blood samples of myocardial infarction and dataset of patients who developed heart failure or heart failure did not occur after myocardial infarction. We discovered a subtype of immune-activation B cell which is associated with the discrimination of post-MI HF and nonHF patients. Such finding was further validated in independent corhorts using PCR. By incorporating the specific marker genes of the B subtype, we developed a prediction model with 13 markers that can predict the HF risk of myocardial infarction patients and provide useful clinical experience and tools.
Inhibition mechanism of MRTX1133 on KRASG12D : a molecular dynamics simulation and Markov state model study
Authors: Liang Fanglin , Kang Zhengzhong , Sun Xianqiang , Chen Jiao , Duan Xuemin , He Hu , Cheng Jianxin
Published: January 2023

The mutant KRAS was considered as an “undruggable” target for decades, especially KRASG12D. It is a great challenge to develop the inhibitors for KRASG12Dwhich lacks the thiol group for covalently binding ligands. The discovery of MRTX1133 solved the dilemma. Interestingly, MRTX1133 can bind to both the inactive and active states of KRASG12D. The binding mechanism of MRTX1133 with KRASG12D, especially how MRTX1133 could bind the active state KRASG12Dwithout triggering the active function of KRASG12D,has not been fully understood. Here, we used a combination of all-atom molecular dynamics simulations and Markov state model (MSM) to understand the inhibition mechanism of MRTX1133 and its analogs. The stationary probabilities derived from MSM show that MRTX1133 and its analogs can stabilize the inactive or active states of KRASG12Dinto different conformations. More remarkably, by scrutinizing the conformational differences, MRTX1133 and its analogs were hydrogen bonded to Gly60 to stabilize the switch II region and left switch I region in a dynamically inactive conformation, thus achieving an inhibitory effect. Our simulation and analysis provide detailed inhibition mechanism of KRASG12Dinduced by MRTX1133 and its analogs. This study will provide guidance for future design of novel small molecule inhibitors of KRASG12D.
The use of Xenogeneic Block Graft and Perforated Collagen Membrane Augmented L-PRF Coverage in Vertical Ridge Augmentation: An Experimental Study in Canine Model
Authors: Eldabe Abdelrahman K. , Amr Ahmed E. , Abu-Seida Ashraf M. , Abdelhamid Ehab S. , Gamal Ahmed Y.
Published: January 2023

Objectives
The primary objective was to evaluate clinically the efficacy of modified perforated collagen membrane (PCM) and/or (L-PRF) in combination with xenogeneic block bone graft in the vertical alveolar ridge augmentation. Secondary outcome measurements were to evaluate histologically the quality of newly formed tissues.
Materials and Methods
Six adult mongrel dogs were enrolled in this randomized blinded study. After defect preparation, xenogeneic screw fixed block graft was covered by occlusive collagen membrane in the group (1) (Block + CM - control group ), while group (2), (L-PRF) membrane was added first before top coverage by occlusive collagen membrane (Block + L-PRF + CM). Groups (3) and (4) were identical to the first two groups except that, the occlusive collagen membrane was replaced by a perforated one, so group (3) was (Block + PCM ) and group (4) was (Block + L-PRF + PCM). Following a healing period of 2 months, dogs were submitted to surgical reentry phase for clinical and histological evaluation.
Results
Clinically, no significant differences were found among all groups regarding vertical and horizontal ridge dimensions (P = 0.155, 0.492 respectively). Histomorphometric analysis revealed that the percentage of total bone area and mature bone was significantly higher in group 4 (69.36 ± 2.72), (33.11 ± 5.18) compared to control group (59.17 ± 4.27),( 21.94 ± 2.86) (P = 0. 027, P = 0.029).
Conclusion
The use of xenogenic block grafts in combination with a double-layered perforated collagen-L-PRF membrane in vertical ridge augmentation appeared to improve the inductive power of this challenging defect type.
Clinical Relevance:
Size and number of perforations may affect the mechanical and handling properties of the membrane.
Reinforcement Learning in Noise Enabled Simulated Environment
Authors: Varghese Tiju George , Sherif Bismin V
Published: January 2023

Reinforcement learning (RL) is a subfield of Artificial intelligence concerned with how agents are trained to become intelligent, so as to take optimum actions in a stochastic environment, in order to maximize the cumulative reward in the long term. The main objective in this field is to find a balance between exploration and exploitation based search strategy. In this context a control problem refers to an objective function of environment state at different points in time and control variables. Optimal control deals with the problem of finding a set of control variable that helps in maximizing the cumulative reward under certain constraints. In case of CartPole, also known as inverted pendulum, the goal here is to move the cart to the left or to the right, so that the pole (pendulum) can stand within a certain angle as long as possible. This work aims to design and develop an intelligent agent for CartPole balancing task using reinforcement learning technique. The actor-critic based reinforcement algorithm was used for training the proposed agent. The results of the proposed agent is compared with a genetic algorithm (GA) based agent. The proposed agent was found to score higher rewards than GA based agent and the training process was significantly faster compared to GA based agent.
A Study of Multivariable Calculus Vector-Related Items in the WeBWorK Open Problem Library
Authors: VanDieren Monica , Moore-Russo Deborah
Published: January 2023

WeBWorK is a free, online homework system that was developed in 1994. It has been supported by key organizations and is currently used by many in the postsecondary mathematics community. Its Open Problem Library (OPL) contains tens of thousands of items at the lower division undergraduate mathematics level. The goal of this study is to investigate multivariable calculus vector-related items in the WeBWorK OPL. We first consider the usage and nature of these items. Next, we consider the nature of the items by looking at each item’s cognitive complexity, the key vector ideas addressed in the item, and the vector representations used in the item by systematically adapting and employing previous coding schemes from documented mathematics education research. The findings in this study validate the critical features of vectors that were identified in earlier work. We conclude that the list of key vector ideas appears to be comprehensive since they addressed the topics in all multivariable calculus vector-related items studied. However, there are not many items of high or very high cognitive complexity. based on our findings, there appears to be a need for specific types of vector-related items available in the WeBWorK OPL. We conclude there is a need for additional items that involve contextual situations; graphical or geometrical interpretation; and reasoning, proof, and justification. We also provide detailed recommendations for the addition of vector-related items that address topics or use representations that are missing or in limited supply in the WeBWorK OPL.
The Obnoxious Competitive Facility Location Model
Authors: Drezner Tammy , Drezner Zvi , Zerom Dawit
Published: January 2023

In this paper we propose a new competitive location model that considers the possible negative impact generated by competing facilities (such as cannabis dispensaries) on surrounding communities. The facilities cannot be located too close to the communities. Therefore, when distances are Euclidean, the facilities must be located at a point outside a set of circles centered at the communities. After formulating the model, a specially designed efficient algorithm that solves the single facility location problem within a given relative accuracy of optimality is constructed. A total of 128 instances are solved in a relatively short time. The largest instance of 10 existing competing facilities and 20,000 demand points was solved in less than 15 minutes of computer time. This new model opens avenues for future research by designing similar new models. Also, the algorithm designed in this paper can be applied to solving other location problems with outside of a set of circles constraints.
Complete genome sequence of the temperate bacteriophage phiSTEC1575-Stx2k induced from Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli
Authors: Yang Xi , Sui Xinxia , Liu Qian , Wang Hua , Sun Hui , Bai Xiangning , Xiong Yanwen
Published: January 2023

A temperate phage, phiSTEC1575-Stx2k, was induced by mitomycin C treatment from a clinical Escherichia coli isolate producing a recently identified Shiga toxin 2k subtype. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that phiSTEC1575-Stx2k belongs to the family Siphoviridae. The complete genome of the phage contained 46,647 bp of circular double-stranded DNA with an average G+C content of 51%. Eighty putative open reading frames were predicted, 44 of which encode proteins involved in phage integration, DNA packaging and replication, regulation, toxicity, bacterial lysis, and morphogenesis. The phage was determined to be inserted into the dusA of lysogenic host chromosome by comparative genomic analysis. These results expand our knowledge on the genomic characteristics of Stx phages.
Potential of whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to predict muscle volume of psoas major, gluteus maximus and back muscles
Authors: Tanaka Masaru , Kanayama Masahiro , Oha Fumihiro , Shimamura Yukitoshi , Tsujimoto Takeru , Hasegawa Yuichi , Hashimoto Tomoyuki , Nojiri Hidetoshi , Ishijima Muneaki
Published: January 2023

Background
Measurement of trunk muscle volume using axial MR images is considered clinically meaningful for understanding several spinal pathologies such as low back pain and spinal sagittal imbalance. However, it remains unclear whether trunk muscle mass (TMM) measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) can predict trunk muscle volume. The aim of this study is to investigate correlation between TMM measured by DXA and cross-sectional area (CSA) of trunk muscles measured by MRI in healthy volunteers.
Methods
A total of 48 healthy volunteers underwent whole-body DXA and MRI of spinopelvic region. CSAs of psoas major, back muscles, and gluteus maximus were measured on MR axial images. Correlations between TMM measured by DXA and CSA of each musculature were investigated. Spearman rank correlation coefficient was employed for statistical analysis.
Results There was a weak correlation between TMM and CSA of psoas major (r = 0.39, P = 0.0678) in men, and a moderate correlation was found in women (r = 0.58, P = 0.0021). There were moderate correlations between TMM and CSA of back muscles both in men (r = 0.63, P = 0.0012) and women (r = 0.63, P = 0.0007). There was a strong correlation between TMM and CSA of gluteus maximus in men (r = 0.72, P < 0.0001), and a moderate correlation was found in women (r = 0.69, P < 0.0001).
Conclusions
TMM was significantly correlated with CSAs of back muscles and gluteus maximus. DXA-derived TMM could reflect the muscle volume of back muscles and gluteus maximus.
Cytochrome C Oxidase is One of the Key Enzymes Providing the Ability to Synthesize Phenazines in Pseudomonas Chlororaphis Subsp. Aurantiaca
Authors: Verameyenka Katsiaryna G. , Naumouskaya Volga A. , Maximova Natalia P.
Published: January 2023

Phenazines are heteroaromatic compounds consist of a central pyrazine ring fused with two benzenes. Various functional groups linked to the dibenzopyrasine core cause differences in chemical, physical and biological properties of phenazines. The interest to these substances does not reduce in several decades. New biological activities and practical applications discovered in recent years force the researchers to study all aspects of phenazines synthesis, degradation and mechanisms of their action.
In this study, we demonstrated the involvement of coxA gene product (cytochrome c oxidase, su I) in phenazines biosynthesis in P. chlororaphis subsp. aurantiaca. Overlap PCR was used to knockout coxAgene and derived mutants were analyzed for their ability to grow on rich and minimal culture media, as well as for the phenazines production level. We showed that the product of coxA gene is necessary for the phenazines production in rich growth media. At the same time CoxA protein seems has no effect on phenazines production in M9 minimal salts medium. CoxA protein is one of the core proteins of large transmembrane protein complex cytochrome c oxidase found in bacteria, archaea, and mitochondria of eukaryotes. We demonstrated that the knockout of even one subunit of this complex multiunit protein leads to a significant decrease (to trace concentrations) or complete suppression of phenazine antibiotics production on rich PCA-medium in P. chlororaphis subsp. aurantiaca.
Analysis of Escherichia coli resistance to ampicillin
Authors: Zheng Yuhong , Chang Jiyuan , Zhang Wenxuan , Lin Jiahui , Yin Juzhen , Yin Youqiang , Su Yubin
Published: January 2023

The abuse and misuse of antibiotics in medical treatment and livestock production have led to the generation of bacterial resistance, especially Escherichia coliresistance to ampicillin, which has compromised clinical treatment. To further understand the specific characteristics of E. coli resistance to ampicillin, we explored the growth and resistance characteristics of bacteria evolving from sensitive to resistant bacteria, with the aim of discovering new phenomena and patterns. In the present study, ampicillin-resistant E. coli strains with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 4-, 16-, and 64-fold were obtained through artificial passage. Results showed that the diameter of the colony inhibition circle decreased at the same concentration of ampicillin and "microcolonization"appeared as bacterial resistance increased. Regarding growth rate, ampicillin-resistant bacteria grew more slowly than susceptible bacteria. The MIC value of ampicillin-resistant bacteria for cefpirome and cefazolin, which are both β-lactam antibiotics, increased as drug resistance increased. In addition, the intracellular concentration of ampicillin and the permeability of the cell membrane decreased as drug resistance increased. This study explored the changing drug resistance characteristics of E. coliampicillin-resistant bacteria to varying degrees, and provides a foundation for future studies investigating the resistance mechanism and clinical treatment of E. coli ampicillin-resistant bacteria.
Gastric collision tumor with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and adenocarcinoma: a rare case report and literature review
Authors: Hao Meiling , Zhao Yuyang , Shen Xingbin , Li Chunhui
Published: January 2023

Background
Gastric adenocarcinoma is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system. Primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the stomach is a common lymphoma originating from gastric submucosal lymphoid tissue, and the coexistence of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and adenocarcinoma is exceedingly rare.
Case presentation:
A 58-year-old woman came to our hospital for treatment due to a choking feeling after eating. During endoscopy, multiple irregular ulcers were seen in the fundus and body of the stomach, and the surrounding mucosa was raised. The biopsy pathology showed poorly differentiated cancer, and the patient did not undergo immunohistochemical detection. Distal gastrectomy was performed. Pathological evaluation of resected specimens showed gastric tubular adenocarcinoma and GC diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. No migration was found at the junction of the two tumors, forming a collision tumor. The patient received two cycles of R-CHOP chemotherapy, and there is no recurrence at present.
Conclusion
We report a case of primary gastric adenocarcinoma colliding with GC-DLBCL. Clinicians and pathologists should pay attention to this issue to avoid missed diagnoses.
Patient as Educator: A Pearl in Medical Education
Authors: Rezazadeh Mahnaz Boroumand , momen Farhad , Mousavi Seyed Reza , Khadem-Rezaiyan Majid , Ranjbar Esmaeil
Published: January 2023

Introduction: One of the important goals of modern medical education is to change the role of patients in education from passive to active. One of the new educational methods is the "patient as educator" method. This study was conducted for investigating the effect of using the patient as educator method on medical students.
Methods: his study was conducted in a semi-experimental intervention method with 56 medical studentsof Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. 2 menopausal women, as patient educators, participated in the training course on the important points of history taking and examination in menopausal women. Demographic information of the students, including age, gender, and mean of scores, was collected. Then the students were divided into two groups. The control group received the usual method of training in the department. In the intervention group, a one-hour training session was held with the presence of the patient and the history taking and examination by the medical students and then by the patient, feedback was given based on the checklist. One month later, both groups were given an OSCE.
Results: the two groups were homogenous in terms of age, sex, and grade point average (P>0.05). After the intervention, a significant difference between the two groups was observed in the history test, professional behavior and examination between the two groups (P<0.001).
Conclusion: using the patient as educator method can be a suitable method to enhance the skill level of history taking, examination and professional behavior of medical students.
Aortic Valve Leaflets Are Asymmetric and Correlated With the Origin of Coronary Arteries
Authors: Koerner Taylor S. , Cunningham Thomas , Marshall Mayme E. , Talley Lauren S. , Childress Megan , Kharouf Rami M. , Li Wen , Salazar Jorge D. , Corno Antonio F.
Published: January 2023

Background.
Aortic valve leaflets asymmetry has been known since Leonardo Da Vinci, but our aim was to evaluate their relationship between size and shape, not defined in children, which we hypothesized correlated with coronary arteries origin.
Methods.
Consecutive pediatric patients with trans-esophageal echocardiography (TEE), with or without trans-thoracic echocardiography (TTE), were included in our study. Exclusion criteria: a) bicuspid aortic valve, b) aortic valve stenosis, c) hypoplasia of aortic valve annulus, or aortic root; d) truncal valve, e) coronary artery atresia, f) previous surgery on aortic valve and/or coronary arteries. In pre-operative TTE and intra-operative TEE inter-commissural distance and length of aortic valve leaflets were measured in short axis view at the period of isovolumetric contraction in systole. Echocardiography investigations, anonymized and randomly coded, were independently reviewed by at least two readers. Echocardiography, angiography, cardiac CT scan and MRI, and operative notes were reviewed to identify origin of coronary arteries.
Findings.
261 pediatric patients were identified, 93 excluded per our criteria, leaving 168 patients, age 2.6 ± 4.3 years, weight 12.87 ± 17.34 kg, 128 (76%) with normal and 40 (24%) with abnormal coronary arteries. In TTE and TEE measurements the non-coronary leaflet had larger area (P < 0.001), while the right and left had equal areas, but different shape, with the left leaflet longer (P < 0.001) and narrower (P = 0.005) than the right. With the major source of blood flow from the right coronary sinus, the non-coronary leaflet was still the longest. However, there was no statically significant difference between the size and shape previously observed between the right and left leaflets.
Conclusions.
Our study showed asymmetry of size and shape among aortic valve leaflets, and a correlation with coronary artery origin. The complex aortic root anatomy must be approximated to optimize function of any surgical repair. These findings also may prove useful in the pre-operative definition of coronary artery anatomy and in the recognition of coronary artery anomalies.
Multidimensional Analysis of Engineering Cost Database Based on Descriptive Data Mining
Authors: Ke Dandan , Dai Jingyi
Published: January 2023

Cost estimation in construction engineering is a crucial topic of study. Low precision in construction engineering cost prediction results from traditional models' inability to adequately capture the evolving trend of construction engineering costs. As a result, a descriptive data mining-based cost prediction model for construction engineering is suggested. The database of engineering costs is first built using several characteristic indices, and the aberrant data are found and filtered using the K-means clustering approach. Second, the mathematical model is established, and its solution is carried out using the LSSVM. Finally, the model is optimized using the PSO technique. The experimental results demonstrate that, in comparison to the conventional engineering cost prediction models, our model's predicted value of the single cost is the closest to the actual cost of one party, and the predicted difference is all within 30 yuan/m2. This finding has significant implications for engineering investment decisions because it can achieve higher accuracy and stability in engineering cost prediction.
Identification and Validation of Cuproptosis Related Genes and Signature Markers in Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Disease using Bioinformatics Analysis and Machine Learning
Authors: Jia Mingxuan , Li Jieyi , Zhang Jingying , Wei Ningjing , yin yating , Chen Hui , Yan Shixing , Wang Yong
Published: January 2023

Background
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) has a high incidence and affects the health of preterm infants. Cuproptosis is a novel form of cell death, but its mechanism of action in the disease is not yet clear. Machine learning, the latest tool for the analysis of biological samples, is still relatively rarely used for in-depth analysis and prediction of diseases.
Methods and Results
First, the differential expression of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in the GSE108754 dataset was extracted and the heat map showed that the NFE2L2 gene was significantly expressed and highly expressed in the control group and the GLS gene was significantly highly expressed in the treat group. Chromosome location analysis showed that both genes were associated with chromosome 2 and positively correlated between genes. The results of immune infiltration and immune cell differential analysis showed differences in the four immune cells, especially in Monocytes cells. Five new pathways were analyzed by consistent clustering based on the expression of CRGs. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) set the screening condition to the top 25% to obtain the disease signature genes. Four machine learning algorithms: Generalized Linear Models (GLM), Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) were used to screen the disease signature genes, and the final five marker genes for disease prediction. The models constructed by GLM method were proved to be more accurate in the validation of two datasets, GSE190215 and GSE188944.
Conclusion
We eventually identified two copper death-associated genes, NFE2L2 and GLS. A machine learning model-GLM was constructed to predict the prevalence of BPD disease, and five disease signature genes NFATC3, ERMN, PLA2G4A, MTMR9LP and LOC440700 were identified. These genes that were bioinformatics analyzed could be potential targets for identifying BPD disease and treatment.
The positive influence of leptin in mature corpus luteum function of pregnant sows
Authors: Zhang Wenlong , Peng Jiang , Yang Sitian , Huang Yupei , Tong Dewen
Published: January 2023

Background: Leptin, well-known modulator of fat deposition and energy metabolism, is a rather peptide hormone involved in reproduction. The mature corpus luteum (CL) of pregnant pig is able to undergo luteolysis in response to prostaglandin (PG)F2α, luteolytic capacity is established. However, the direct role of leptin in mature CL functin of pregnant sows has remained obscure, especially in PGF2α-reduced CL function.
Methods: We first investigated the expressions of leptin and its long form receptor (Ob-R) in the mature CL and cultured luteal cells of pregnant sows. We therefore used luteal cells of mature CL of pregnant sows to investigate the effect of leptin on CL function.
Results: Our results showed that leptin and Ob-R immunostaining was predominantly located in luteal cells of mature CL, and leptin and Ob-R proteins were detected in cultured luteal cells. In vitro, treatments of luteal cells with PGF2α are decreased cell viability and P4 release. To note, leptin is increased the basal and PGF2α-reduced cell viability, and P4 release by luteal cells. Leptin is also accelerated the LH-stimulated P4 secretion in luteal cells. Furthermore, leptin is induced PGE2 release, but reduced PGF2α secretion by luteal cells. Finally, leptin is increased the release and mRNA expression of LH by luteal cells.
Conclusions: Our data provide evidence for the expressions of leptin and Ob-R in the mature CL and cultured luteal cells, and a positive influence of leptin in mature CL function of pregnant sows. The findings may represent an additional link between energy metabolism and pregnant female reproduction.
Cloning, heterologus expression and characterization of a thermophilic and salt tolerant GH11 xylanase from Allostreptomyces psammosilenae YIM DR4008 T
Authors: Li Xin-Wei , Zhu Dan , Li Lei , Yang Run-Feng , Fan Shi-Yuan , Lv Zhi-Hua , Rao Meng-Di , Song Rong-Huang , Sang Peng , Yin Yi-Rui , Yang Li-Quan
Published: January 2023

Xylanases are used in a wide range of applications such as food, feed, and bioenergy production. Many industrial applications need to be carried out at high temperatures, so it is important to discover new thermophilic xylanases. In this study, a xylanase gene (576 bp), denominated apxyn11a, was obtained from Allostreptomyces psammosilenae YIM DR4008T and was cloned and heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). The recombinant xylanase (ApXyn11A) was isolated and purified by Ni2+-affinity chromatography. The molecular weight of recombinant ApXyn11A was 22.7 kDa. Its optimum reaction temperature and pH were 65°C and 5.6, respectively. It maintained above 95% relative activity after incubation at 55°C for 120 min and more than 80% residual activity after incubation in pH 4.0–6.0 for 24 h. What more, ApXyn11A exhibited more than 60% relative activity in presence of 3.5 M NaCl. The kinetic parameters Km (0.2 mg/mL), Vmax (2000 µmol/min/mg) and Kcat (755.09 S− 1) were determined using corn cob xylan as the substrate. These indicate that ApXyn11A has the properties of small molecular weight, thermophilic, salt and acid tolerance, which predicts the potential use of ApXyn11A in food, feed, paper and bioenergy fields.
A Machine Learning Model Based Web App to Predict Diabetic Blood Glucose
Authors: Sampa Masuda Begum , Biswas Topu , Hoque M Rakibul , Hossain M Nazmul , Ahmed Ashir
Published: January 2023

Aim of this study is to use machine learning approaches for predicting blood glucose based on basic non-invasive health checkup test results, dietary information, and socio-demographic characteristics and to develop a web application to predict blood glucose easily. We evaluated the performance of five widely used machine learning models. Data have been collected from 271 employees of Grameen Bank complex, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This study used continuous blood glucose data to train the model and predicted new blood glucose values using the trained data. Finally, we developed a blood glucose prediction web application. The Boosted Decision Tree Regression model showed the best performance among other models based on the Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) 2.30, this RMSE is better than any reported in the literature. This study developed a blood glucose prediction model and web application which is easier, more convenient, and more efficient for people. People can also easily check their blood glucose values using our app, especially in remote areas of developing countries that lack adequate skilled doctors and nurses. By predicting blood glucose, this study can help to save medical costs and time and to reduce health management costs. Our system can be helpful in achieving SDGs, Universal Health Coverage and thus reducing overall morbidity and mortality.
Biplanar versus Triplanar Chevron Osteotomy for the Correction of Hallux Valgus: A Comparison of Radiologic Outcomes
Authors: Feeney Kaylem M , D'Souza Lester G
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Hallux valgus is a common disorder of the foot. The chevron osteotomy is among the most common methods of surgically correcting mild to moderate hallux valgus, though it has been associated with inadequate distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) correction and risk of hallux valgus recurrence. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the triplanar and biplanar chevron osteotomies in correcting mild to moderate hallux valgus. Specifically, we aimed to determine if the triplanar chevron osteotomy results in superior correction of the DMAA compared to the biplanar chevron osteotomy.
Methods: A retrospective review of patient medical charts and preoperative and postoperative radiographs was performed. A total of 55 patients were included, with 28 patients in the biplanar chevron group and 27 patients in the triplanar chevron group. The DMAA and intermetatarsal (IM) angles were measured on preoperative and postoperative radiographs. Statistical analysis was carried out on SPSS.
Results: The DMAA and IM angles improved significantly in both groups (p = <0.001). There was no significant difference in the mean postoperative IM angle in the biplanar versus triplanar groups (9.58 degrees versus 9.19 degrees, respectively, p = 0.279). There was a significant difference in the mean postoperative DMMA in the triplanar versus biplanar groups (7.88 degrees versus 8.79 degrees, respectively, p = 0.026).
Conclusions: The biplanar and triplanar chevron osteotomies are equally effective in reducing IM angle in mild to moderate hallux valgus. The triplanar chevron osteotomy significantly increases DMAA correction when compared to the biplanar chevron osteotomy and may therefore reduce hallux valgus recurrence.
Study of Candida species in various clinical specimens at UCMS-TH, Bhairahawa, Nepal
Authors: Ghimire Kripa , Reddy K. Rajeshwar , Raut Shristi
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The incidence of fungal infections has increased significantly in the recent times contributing to high rates of morbidity and mortality. Although being the normal flora of various parts of human body, Candida species are recognized as a major fungal pathogen causing both superficial and deep-seated infection in immunosuppressed patients. Increase in antimicrobial resistance recently has rendered treatment difficult due to restricted number of antifungal drugs.
Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study done for a period of 18 months at a tertiary care center. Ethical clearance was obtained from Institutional Review Committee with a referece number (UCMS/IRC/036/18). Two hundred isolates of Candida species were identified from various clinical samples by using phenotypic tests such as CHROM agar, sugar fermentation test, sugar assimilation test and germ tube test. Antifungal susceptibility test was performed for five drugs namely ketoconazole (10µg), fluconazole (10µg), itraconazole (10µg), nystatin (100µg) and amphotericin-B(20µg). All the statistical evaluation was done by using SPSS version 20.0 software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY).
Results: Among 200 isolates of Candida, the most frequently isolated species was C.albicanswhich was seen in 69% of total isolates followed by C.tropicalis, C.krusei, and C.dubliniensis. Maximum Candida isolates were from urine sample (41.5%) followed by sputum (22.5%). Amphotericin –B was found to be the most sensitive drug with a sensitivity of 97.1% whereas ketoconazole was the least sensitive drug with a sensitivity of 40.5% among the isolates.
Conclusion: C.albicans were the major isolates in this study, however, there is an increased incidence of non- albicans Candida species. Antifungal susceptibility test revealed increased resistance to different antifungal drugs among Candida species. This may conclude that increase in resistant strains may lead to difficult management of Candida infection as there are very few antifungal agents available.
Expedited Surrogate-Based Quantification of Engineering Tolerances using A Modified Polynomial Regression
Authors: Parnianifard Amir , Chaudhary Sushank , Mumtaz Shahid , Wuttisittikulkij Lunchakorn , Imran Muhammad Ali
Published: January 2023

Statistical analysis is frequently used to determine how manufacturing tolerances or operating condition uncertainties affect system performance. Surrogate is one of the accelerating ways in engineering tolerance quantification to analyze uncertainty with an acceptable computational burden rather than costly traditional methods such as Monte Carlo simulation. Compared with more complicated surrogates such as the Gaussian process, or Radial Basis Function (RBF), the Polynomial Regression (PR) provides simpler formulations yet acceptable outcomes. However, PR with the common least-squares method needs to be more accurate and flexible for approximating nonlinear and nonconvex models. In this study, a new approach is proposed to enhance the accuracy and approximation power of PR in dealing with uncertainty quantification in engineering tolerances. For this purpose, first, by computing the differences between training sample points and a reference point (e.g., nominal design), we employ certain linear and exponential basis functions to transform an original variable design into new transformed variables. A second adjustment is made to calculate the bias between the true simulation model and the surrogate's approximated response. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed PR approach, we provide comparison results between conventional and proposed surrogates employing four practical problems with geometric fabrication tolerances such as three-bar truss design, welded beam design, and trajectory planning of two-link and three-link (two and three degrees of freedom) robot manipulator. The obtained results prove the preference of the proposed approach over conventional PR by improving the approximation accuracy of the model with significantly lower prediction errors.
Flexibility Values of Battery and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles
Authors: Liu Ruixue , He Guannan , Wang Xizhe , Mallapragada Dharik , Zhao Hongbo , Shao-Horn Yang , Jiang Benben
Published: January 2023

To address the intermittency problems of variable renewable energy (VRE) in low-carbon energy systems, flexibility has become increasingly important. Electrified transportation exhibits great potentialto provide essential flexibility. In this work, we analyzed and compared the flexibility values of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) for planning and operating interdependent electricity and hydrogen supply infrastructures while considering battery degradation impacts and costs. A cross-scale framework involving both macro-level and micro-level models was proposed to compute the values of flexible EV charging. At the macro level, a sector-coupling planning model was adopted to estimate the system cost reduction from flexible EV charging incorporating battery degradation costs. Battery degradation cost computation for BEVs was based on micro-level simulations of battery degradation via a porous electrode theory-based model under various charging-time constraints and temperatures. The results show that the flexibility values of BEVs are significantly reduced by considering the battery degradation cost and becomes comparable to those of FCEVs. Fast charging and a low-temperature environment could reduce the flexibility values of BEVs due to increased degradation. Under theelectrolytic-hydrogen only pathway, with more stronglycoupled power and hydrogen supply chains, the flexibility values of BEVs are significantly reduced because of the substitution effect of the less expensive flexibility from hydrogen storage. Our findings imply that policies (e.g., the hydrogen pathway) and relevant management technologies (e.g., battery fast charging and thermal management) for BEV battery degradation mitigation are crucial to shaping the comparative flexibility advantage of the two transportation electrification pathways.
Irrigation Sources with Chlorine Drinking Water Standard Limits Cause Phytotoxicity on ‘Rex’ Lettuce Grown in Hydroponic Systems
Authors: McGehee Cora , Raudales Rosa E.
Published: January 2023

Chlorine is a disinfectant commonly used to treat water. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has set a standard limit of up to 4 mg·L−1 chlorine for drinking water. The objective of this project was to identify chlorine phytotoxicity thresholds on ‘Rex’ lettuce (Lactuca sativa) when the water source contained chlorine levels within the USEPA standard limits. The nutrient solution to grow lettuce was prepared with reverse osmosis–treated water treated with 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 4 mg·L−1 chlorine and then fertilizers were added. Lettuce plants were grown in a deep-water culture hydroponic system. Visual toxicity symptoms on leaves, relative leaf greenness, and fresh and dry biomass were measured. Our results indicate that irrigation water sources with ≥1 mg·L−1 chlorine used to prepare nutrient solutions can cause phytotoxicity in lettuce plants in just 3 days. Compared with the untreated control, lettuce shoot biomass was lower by 30%, 55%, 66%, 83%, and 92% at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 4 mg·L−1 of chlorine, respectively. Water sources with ≥ 1 mg·L−1 chlorine can cause significant marketable yield reduction in lettuce grown in deep-water culture.
NEED ANALYSIS OF NON-ENGLISH DEPARTMENT STUDENTS IN ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSE (ESP)
Authors: Fitria Tira Nur
Published: January 2023

This research is to investigate the need analysis of the non-English students in ESP. This research is descriptive and qualitative. The findings show that in the educational students’ background in high school from 348 students as respondents, most students (196 students or 56.3 %) graduated from Vocational High School. They think that the career opportunities available to tertiary education graduates are much wider and more numerous. Most students (259 students or 74.4 %) have a ‘Basic’ level. The students can use simple vocabulary/expressions in English, know a little grammar and make lots of pronunciation errors. Most students (232 students or 66.6 %) are motivated to learn English to have the ability in communicating orally in English and to get a good job after graduating from the study. Most students (231 students or 66.6 %) have difficulty understanding grammar’. Most students (250 students or 71.8 %) want to have the reading ability in looking for information on English text. Most students (283 students or 81.3 %) want to have the ability in writing English sentences properly and correctly. Most students (270 students or 77.6 %) want to have the ability in listening to and understanding English presentations from the lecturer. Most students (304 students or 87.4 %) want to have the speaking ability in pronouncing English words correctly. Related to English language material needs for specific purposes required by students, most students (303 students or 87.1 %) want the material of vocabulary, especially English specific terms in several references such as books, journal articles, textbooks, modules, or other sources according to their study program in the fields of Accounting, Taxation, Engineering and Information Systems, and Islamic Economics.
OUTCOMES AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF BABIES DIAGNOSED WITH MECONIUM ASPIRATION SYNDROME (MAS): A CASE CONTROL STUDY
Authors:   Department of PediatricsControl Kalkaal Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia., Abdi Malin Jibril , Abdullahi Mohammed Suleyman ,   Senior Consultant GI-Surgery Kalkaal Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia., Kimutai Timothy ,   Statistics and Information Kalkaal Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is an illness that linked with significant respiratory morbidity among neonates born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF). MAS, the most common cause of serious sickness and death in newborns, occurs in around 5% to 10% of births. 6ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â“25% of all babies have meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF), and approximately 11% will have MAS. This case-control study examines the outcomes and factors associated with MAS in babies born with MSAF. Methods: This single-center case-control study was performed in Kalkaal Hospital from December 15, 2020 to December 15, 2021. The hospital review board of the examined and approved the research protocol. During this period 430 neonates were admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the Hospital. Among the 430, 63 neonates had Meconium aspiration syndrome and were included as the case group in the study. 63 neonates without meconium-stained amniotic fluid or meconium aspiration syndrome were selected purposively for the study. In both groups a record was made on information about fetal distress, gestational age of baby and delivery mode. Additionally, complications like prolonged duration of labor, obstructed labor, and presence of premature rupture of membrane (PROM), and maternal age were recorded. Results: 50.8% of the neonates born with meconium-stained amniotic fluid were males, while 49.2% were females. 61 of the MAS neonates were still alive, while two had expired while all of the control groups were alive. The variables that showed to have significant effect on MAS include fetal distress(p<0.000), gestational age greater than 42 weeks (p = 0.01), and obstructed labor (p = 0.023). The results of the study indicates that 66.7% (n=42) of the patients in the case group had fetal distress with a odds ratio of 19, gestational age above 42 weeks in the case group were 31.7% with a odds ratio of 3.19 and 27% (n=17) of the patients had obstructed labor with a odds ratio of 2.96. Conclusion: The research found out that fetal distress, gestational age greater than 42 weeks, and obstructed labor all contribute significantly to meconium aspiration. Identification and screening of these risk factors may assist in the care of patients with meconium aspiration, therefore minimizing MAS-related complications, morbidity, and death.
PREVENTING AND MINIMIZING ARC FLASH RISK IN POWER SYSTEM NETWORK
Authors:   Electrical and Electronics Engineering Department Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Nigeria., Eruotor F.O. , Eruotor M.O. ,   Physics with Electronics Department Western Delta University, Oghara, Nigeria.
Published: January 2023

Arc flash events have resulted in several accidents due to faults in electrical equipment that lead to a significant release of energy. This event is a hazard and threat to the Power System Security and due to the large energy release, plasma is generated, as pressure increases since it causes physical damage to equipment while life of system operators within the vicinity of its occurrence are at risk. Although arc flash is one of the electrical safety programs that have been in existence, arc flash hazard was not adequately addressed until recently. However, the Electric Arc phenomenon is relatively new in the Nigerian power industry, there are certain aspect that are yet to be treated by the available literature, hence it is the duty of this work to establish model for addressing the observed lapses. The design is adequately prepared for the power system security analysis using typical scenarios in industrial facilities that are prone to yield high incident energy levels. In line with the foregoing, the developed methodology is validated using a segment of the Nigerias power industry as case study.
ANAESTHETIC MANAGEMENT OF A PATIENT WITH EBSTEINS ANOMALY POSTED FOR CEREBRAL ABSCESS DRAINAGE
Authors:   Department of Anaesthesiology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune., A. Prabhune , V.S Barua ,   Department of Anaesthesiology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune., Ghotawadekar Sameer ,   Department of Anaesthesiology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune., Maheshwari Poonam ,   Department of Anaesthesiology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune.
Published: January 2023

Ebsteins anomaly is a rare complex congenital heart disorder with malformation of the tricuspid valve and right ventricle associated with the right to left shunt. Severity can range from asymptomatic to severely debilitated. We have discussed a case of a 12-year-old female patient with Ebsteins anomaly for cerebral abscess drainage.