bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What can we do to prevent knee osteoarthritis? Evidence from a genetically informed perspective
Authors: Xu Jiawen , Li Shuai , Si Haibo , Ma Jun , Zeng Yi , Wu Yuangang , Zhang Shaoyun , Shen Bin
Published: July 2022

Object: To determine some modifiable risk factors for KOA through MR analysis from a genetically informed perspective to achieve early prevention to reduce the prevalence of KOA in the population.Methods: First, we used a series of quality control steps to identify eligible instrumental SNPs that were strongly related to exposure. Second, we used numerous dependable analytical methods (Inverse-variance weighting, MR-PRESSO method, weighted median, MR–Egger regression, and MR. RAPS method) to make our conclusions more robust and credible. The MR–Egger intercept test, Cochran’s Q test and “leave-one-out” sensitivity analysis were performed to evaluate the horizontal pleiotropy, heterogeneities, and stability of these genetic variants on KOA. Outlier variants identified by the MR-PRESSO outlier test were removed step-by-step to reduce heterogeneity and the effect of horizontal pleiotropy.Results: Through double sample MR analysis, we found a causal association between obesity and KOA, and obesity was positively correlated with the incidence of KOA (IVW: beta (95% CI), 0.144 (0.089, 0.199); OR (95% CI) 1.155 (1.093, 1.221); p =3.09e-7). The genetic predisposition to smoking was associated with a decreased risk of KOA (IVW: beta (95% CI), 0.178 (0.045, 0.311); OR (95% CI), 1.195 (1.046, 1.365); p =0.008). In addition, there was a causal association between alcohol consumption and KOA (IVW: beta (95% CI), 0.347 (0.003, 0.692); OR (95% CI) 1.416 (1.003, 1.998); p =0.047).Conclusion: Our study confirmed some controllable risk factors (smoking, drinking and obesity) had causal associations with KOA from a genetic point of view, which provides an important clue for the prevention and treatment of KOA.
A Novel Feature Selection Method Based on Bio-inspired Artificial Intelligence for palm vein authentication
Authors: Ghoualmi Lamis , Benkechakche Mohamed-El-Amine , Draa Amer
Published: July 2022

Recently, both industry and academics are paying increasingly more attention to bio-metric authentication using palm vein patterns due to the benefits it provides over traditional methods, like those that rely on a fingerprint, iris, or face. However, feature extraction of the palm vein feature, which seeks to collect the most distinctive features that uniquely identify individuals might have redundant and useless features, which would reduce the performance of the bio-metric system and cause a dimension issue. This paper presents an improved feature selection technique based on a bio-inspired artificial intelligence algorithm called Discrete Artificial Bee Colony (DABC) for palm vein bio-metric authen-tication. The best set of features from those offered by Gabor feature extractor are selected using the DABC algorithm. In attempt to grant additional diversity and effectively explore the solution space, a variant of Opposition Based Learning (OBL) notion is implemented. The proposed approach, termed Modified Opposition based DABC (MODABC), has been evaluated using the CASIA palm vein database in comparison to a number of feature selection algorithms based on bio-inspired artificial intelligence. The experimental findings demonstrate that the presented method perform better that the literature in a number of areas, including accuracy, FRR, FAR, feature vector size, and fitness values. The method being proposed enables providing a suitable balance between the feature vector size and the authentication rate.
Operando tomographic microscopy during laser-based powder bed fusion
Authors: Makowska Malgorzata , Verga Fabrizio , Pfeiffer Stefan , Marone Federica , Chang Cynthia , Schlepütz Christian , Florio Kevin , Wegener Konrad , Graule Thomas , Petegem Steven Van
Published: July 2022

Laser-based Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) of oxide ceramics enables fabrication of objects with complex three-dimensional shapes, which are impossible to achieve using conventional manufacturing routes. However, mechanical properties of dense LPBF-manufactured ceramics are very poor due to large amount of structural defects. To acquaint deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms, operando tomographic microscopy during LPBF of a magnetite-modified alumina using a pulsed, green laser has been carried out. Operando 3-dimensional information provides an insight into phenomena not accessible with other techniques. The effect of the laser energy density on the surface roughness, powder denudation zone and porosity formation mechanisms is investigated. Using increasing power results in significant increase of the melt pool width, but not of its depth and no melt pool depression is observed. For the investigated ceramic system, the forces due to the recoil pressure do not significantly influence the melt pool dynamics. Increasing power leads to avoid the lack of fusion porosity, but enhances formation of spherical porosity that is formed by either reaching boiling point of liquid alumina, or by introducing gas bubbles by injection of hollow powder particles into the liquid.
Identification of a Variant in NLRP3 Gene in a Patient with Muckle-Wells Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: liu jia , Zhang Ranran , Yi Zhi , Lin Yi , Chang Hong , Zhang Qiuye
Published: July 2022

Background: Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome (CAPS), a rare genetic autoimmune disease, is composed of familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome (FCAs), Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS), and neonatal onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID). MWS is caused by dominantly inherited or de novo gain-of-function mutations in the NOD-like receptor 3 (NLRP3) gene. At present, there is no report about the variation of R262W in China.Case presentation: We reported a 3-year-old Chinese boy who had recurrent fever without obvious inducement, bilateral conjunctival congestion, and urticarial-like rash. Laboratory examination showed elevation in leukocyte count, neutrophil count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid protein (SAA) levels. Whole exome sequencing identified a missense variation c.784-786delinsTGG (p.R262W) in the coding region of the NLRP3 gene. Conclusion: A classical variant of the NLRP3 gene in a patient with MWS was first reported in China.
Genome sequence analysis of H7N3 subtype avian influenza virus originated from wild birds and its potential infectivity in mice
Authors: Yin Xin , Wu Tiantian , Peng Cheng , Li Jinping , Liu Shuo , Hou Guangyu , Jiang Wenming , Liu Hualei
Published: July 2022

In 2021, an H7N3 avian influenza virus (AIV) was isolated from a mallard in Tianhewan Yellow River National Wetland Park, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. Sequences analysis showed that this strain received its genes from H7, H6, H5, H3, and H1 AIVs of domestic poultry and wild birds in Asia and Europe. It was low pathogenic in chickens and mild pathogenicity in mice. These results suggest that the importance of continued surveillance of the H7N3 virus to better understand the ecology and evolution of the AIVs in poultry and wild birds and the potential threat to human.
Nodeless electron pairing in CsV3Sb5-derived kagome superconductors
Authors: Okazaki Kozo , Zhong Yigui , Liu Jinjin , Wu Xianxin , Akifumi Mine , Li Yongkai , Najafzadeh Sahand , Han Xinloong , Kondo Takeshi , Hu Jiangping , Shin Shik , Yin Jia-Xin , Wang Zhiwei , Shi Xun , Yao Yugui
Published: July 2022

The newly discovered kagome superconductors represent a promising platform for investigating the quantum interplay between band topology, electronic order, and lattice geometry. Despite extensive research efforts on this system, the nature of the superconducting ground state remains elusive. In particular, consensus on the electron pairing symmetry has not been achieved so far, in part owing to the lack of a momentum-resolved measurement of the superconducting gap structure. Here we report the direct observation of a nodeless, nearly isotropic and orbital-independent superconducting gap in the momentum space of two exemplary CsV3Sb5-derived kagome superconductors — Cs(V0.93Nb0.07)3Sb5 and Cs(V0.86Ta0.14)3Sb5, using ultrahigh resolution and low temperature angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). Remarkably, we find that such a gap structure is robust to the appearance or absence of charge order in the normal state, tuned by isovalent Nb/Ta substitutions of V. Moreover, the scaling ratio of gap versus superconducting transition temperature is close to the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) value, indicating a pairing in the weak-coupling regime. Our direct observation of the superconducting gap structure points to a persistent s-wave pairing in such kagome superconductors.
Use of food attractants to monitor and forecast Spodoptera frugiperda Smith seasonal abundance in southern China
Authors: He Wei , Wang Liying , Lv Chunyang , Ge Shishuai , Zhang Haowen , Jiang Shan , Chu Bo , Yang Xianming , Wyckhuys Kris A. G. , Wu Kongming
Published: July 2022

The fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda Smith) is an important invasive pest of maize crops in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. To enable timely and effective pest management, accurate monitoring and forecasting of S. frugiperda populations is essential. In this study, we used food attractants to assess seasonal abundance of S. frugiperda in southern Yunnan (China) and determined adult age based upon ovarian development or testes size. During 2020–2021, the seasonal abundance of trapping S. frugiperda males with food attractants and sex pheromones were approximately the same at two field sites. Both trapping methods yielded S. frugiperda males of different ages – with an identical age structure for both trap types. The proportion of females trapped with food attractants was about 80%, which was significantly higher than that of males. S. frugiperda populations at two field sites were composed of immigrants that either originated in central Yunnan or in eastern Myanmar. Based upon field-level recordings of adult reproductive state, models reliably anticipated S. frugiperda fecundity dynamics. Next, drawing upon meteorological data and FAW adult age, migration trajectories were established for S. frugiperda immigrant populations. Overall, these novel (food-based) monitoring and forecasting tools can improve integrated pest management (IPM) of S. frugiperda in China and abroad.
Measuring the Radioactivity Concentration of 40 K, 226 Ra, 232 Th and Radiological Risk Assessment from Water Tap
Authors: Salih Najeba F.
Published: July 2022

The water has an importance in environmental studies because of its daily usage by human and its ability to transport pollutants, such as radionuclides that can pose a health risk to human. The radiological quality of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in some samples of water tap collected in kirkuk area, Iraq, has been measured by direct gamma ray spectroscopy using high purity germanium detector Result: or radium equivalent activity, internal hazard index (Hin), external hazard index (Hex),representative level index Iγr, Dose rate (nGyh-1),indoor and outdoorAnnual effective dose (AEDE) in the air,respectively, due to gamma radiation and the annual gonadal dose equivalent (AGDE) were calculated, it was lowerthe world average value 300μSv.y−1, recommended by UNSCEAR. Also, the values of radiation hazard expressed by (Raeq) varied from (223.2445 to 369.9037) mBq.kg−1 with a mean of 339.9506 mBq.kg−1 which is less, lower than the worldwide average. These values are far below the allowable limit (370 Bq.kg–1) recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). And the calculated external hazard indices were found to be less than 1 which shows a low dose. These results can be contributed to the database of this area
Inter- and Intrarater Reliability of Short-term Measurement of Heart Rate Variability on Rest in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Authors: Santos-de-Araújo Aldair Darlan , Bassi-Dibai Daniela , Camargo Patricia Faria , Marinho Renan Shida , Goulart Cássia da Luz , Dourado Izadora Moraes , Ricci Paula Angélica , Mendes Renata Gonçalves , Borghi-Silva Audrey
Published: July 2022

Individuals with COPD have an imbalance of cardiac autonomic control. In this context, HRV is considered an important tool for assessing cardiac sympathetic and parasympathetic balance, however it is a dependent evaluator measure and subject to methodological biases that may compromise the interpretation of results. This study examines the inter- and intrarater reliability of HRV parameters derived from short-term recordings in individuals with COPD. Fifty-one individuals of both genders with COPD clinical diagnosis confirmed by the pulmonary function test and aged ≥ 50 years were included. The RR interval (RRi) were recorded during a 10 min period on supine position using a portable heart rate monitor (Polar® H10 model). The data were transferred into Kubios® HRV Standard analysis software and analyzed within the stable sessions containing 256 sequential RRi. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ranged from 0.942 to 1.000 according to the intrarater analyse by Researcher 01 and 0.915 to 0.998 to the intrarater by Researcher 02. The interrater ICC ranged from 0.921 to 0.998. The coefficient of variation was up to 8.28 for Researcher 01 intrarater analysis, 9.06 for Researcher 02 intrarater analysis and 13.07 for interrater analysis. The measurement of HRV using a portable heart rate device in individuals with COPD present acceptable values of intra- and interrater reliability, supporting the use of HRV in the clinical and scientific scenario. Furthermore, it is important that the data analysis be performed by the same experienced evaluator.
Plasma cell myeloma with RAS/BRAF mutations: Clinicopathologic, molecular genetic features and outcomes of 68 patients
Authors: Li Nianyi , Lin Pei , Zuo Zhuang , You M. James , Shuai Wen , Orlowski Robert Z. , Manasanch Elisabet , Li Shaoying , Xu Jie , Garces Sofia , Jelloul Fatima Zahra , Tang Zhenya , Wang Wei , Medeiros L. , Yin C. Cameron
Published: July 2022

High-throughput genomic analysis of plasma cell myeloma has identified recurrent gene mutations of prognostic significance. Mutations in the RAS-MAPK pathway, such as KRAS, NRAS, and BRAF, are known as high-risk factors associated with poor prognosis in patients with various types of cancers, but studies in myeloma have yielded mixed results. We describe the clinicopathologic, cytogenetic, molecular features and outcomes of 68 patients with RAS/BRAF-mutated myeloma, and compare this group with 79 myeloma patients without any mutations. We show that KRAS, NRAS and BRAF were mutated in 16%, 11%, and 5% of cases, respectively. The RAS/BRAF-mutated group included 39 men and 29 women with a median age of 63 years (range, 35–82) at initial diagnosis. Patients with RAS/BRAF-mutated myeloma had lower hemoglobin and platelet counts, higher levels of serum lactate dehydrogenase and calcium, higher percentage of bone marrow plasma cells, and more advanced R-ISS stage. In addition, RAS/BRAF mutations were associated with complex karyotype and extra copies of CKS1B. The median overall survival and progression-free survival were significantly shorter for patients in the RAS/BRAF-mutated group (69.0 months vs 220.7 months, p = 0.0023 and 46.0 months vs 60.6 months, p = 0.0311, respectively). Univariate analysis revealed that KRAS mutation, NRAS mutation, lower hemoglobin level, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, higher R-ISS stage, complex karyotype, gain/amplification of CKS1B, monosomy 13/RB1 deletion and lack of autologous stem cell transplantation were associated with poorer prognosis. Multivariate analysis showed that KRAS mutation, lower hemoglobin level, higher level of serum calcium, higher ISS stage and lack of autologous stem cell transplantation predict inferior outcome. In summary, RAS/BRAF mutations occur in 30–40% of myeloma cases and are associated with higher tumor burden, higher R-ISS stage, complex karyotype, and shorter overall survival and progression-free survival. These findings support testing for RAS/BRAF mutations in myeloma patients and underscore the potential therapeutic benefits of RAS/BRAF inhibitors.
High-resolution terahertz digital holography based on frequency- domain diagonal extension imaging
Authors: Wang Yao , Li Qi
Published: July 2022

By leveraging frequency-domain diagonal extension (FDDE) imaging in terahertz (THz) in-line digital holography, the resolution of THz digital holography would be dramatically improved. The holography system in this work which utilizes a CO2-pumped 2.52 THz (118.83 µm) continuous-wave laser as the source and a pyroelectric-array camera with a pixel pitch of 100 µm as the detector could attain a resolution of 150 µm (∼1.26 λ) near to the resolution limit of the system. FDDE imaging is a simple and effective method for resolution enhancement, where no new detector or other equipment is employed. Samples are imaged twice from different angles and then the high-frequency components of images are stitched to improve the resolution. Different from the traditional FDDE, weight-FDDE (w-FDDE) which can reduce the visibility distinction between different orientations of the synthetic pictures by adding weight factors to produce a superior synthetic image is proposed in this work.
Real-life experience on the effectiveness of conjunctival flap and amniotic membrane graft in the treatment of refractory fungal corneal ulcer
Authors: Mahmuda Khadiza , Thakur Prof. Moshahid , Talukdar Paritush Kanti , Tanim Tawfique Enayeth , Chowdury Md. Kamrul Islam , Shanta Shamima , Afroz Mst Sabiha , Khan Md. Abdullah Saeed , Hasan Mohammad Jahid
Published: July 2022

Background: The study aimed to evaluate and compare the results of the conjunctival flap (CF) and cryopreserved amniotic membrane graft (AMG) in the management of fungal corneal ulcer with complications or non-responsive to medical treatment. Methods: In this retrospective study, medical records of 30 patients with culture-positive fungal corneal ulcer treated with either CF or AMG (15 eyes in each group) were retrieved for analysis. After the surgical procedure, patients were followed up at days 1, 7, 14, 21, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 to explore outcome of the operation along with complications.Results: Infecting fungi were Fusarium (n=11), Aspergillus (n=10), Mucor (n=4) and Penicillium (n=10). The most common indication was resistant ulcer with perforation. After the procedure, epithelization was completed in 11(73.33%) and 13 (86.67%) patients in the CF and AMG groups. Visual acuity improvement was significantly better in the latter group (CF: 1 [6.67%] vs. AMG: 7 [46.67%], p=0.023). Flap failure occurred in 4 patients (26.67%) from the CF and 2 (13.33%) from the AMG group. No significant differences were found between the two groups regarding success rate (p=0.651), epithelialization time (p=0.691), healing of corneal ulcer (p=0.651), and postoperative stability (p=0.651) of the flaps. Conclusions: CF and AMG are both effective for the management of refractory fungal corneal ulcers. However, AMG appears to improve visual acuity better than CF.
Modeling strength characteristics of hydrate-bearing sediments based on discrete element method
Authors: CHEN Yu-qi , Liu Lei , ZHOU Bo , XUE Shi-feng
Published: July 2022

It is indispensable for the natural gas hydrate exploration to evaluate the strength and deformation characteristics of hydrate-bearing sediments (HBS) and predict its strength and strain parameters. The main objective of this paper is to model the strength characteristics of HBS based on the discrete element method (DEM) simulation experiments. A preparation method is introduced to fabricate the DEM numerical samples of various HBS. A series of triaxial compression tests are operated on the HBS numerical samples with various conditions. The strength parameters of the HSB with various hydrate saturation and confining pressure, such as failure stresses, failure strains, cohesion and internal friction angles, are determined based on the test results. A strength model, which includes the failure stress evolution equation, the failure strain evolution equation, the cohesive evolution equation and the internal friction angle evolution equation, is developed to represent the strength characteristics of the HSB under various conditions. The cohesion evolution equation describes an exponential relationship between the cohesion and the hydrate saturation. While the internal friction angle evolution equation presents a linear relationship between the internal friction angle and the hydrate saturation. The failure stress evolution equations are based on Mohr-Coulomb criterion and modified Lade-Duncan criterion, respectively. Error analysis shows that the prediction of failure stress based on the modified Lade-Duncan criterion has the higher accuracy. The failure strain evolution equation is based on Mohr-Coulomb criterion, and it has a good performance.
Pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in triple negative breast cancer - one clinic experience.
Authors: Sivina Elina , Blumberga Lubova , Purkalne Gunta , Irmejs Arvids
Published: July 2022

Background. Triple negative breast cancer is heterogeneous BC molecular subtype. Pathological complete response (pCR) is important surrogate marker for progression free and overall survival. Aim of study was to evaluate clinical and pathological factors that are associated with complete pathological response status in triple negative breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Materials and methods. 80 triple negative breast cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery in Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital between January 2018 and January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. 27 patients (33.7%) were BRCA founder mutation carriers. Results. 32.5% (n=26) patients in all study group and 55.6% (n=15) in patients with BRCA founder mutation achieved pCR. 47 of all patients received platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 19 patients (40.4%) achieved complete pathological response. Patients in pCR group presented with significantly higher Ki-67 score (p=0.007), BRCA 1 or 2 mutation (p=0.002) and younger age (p=0.02) than in non-pCR group. pCR did not statistically significantly impact RFS and OS. Conclusions. BRCA mutation, Ki67 score and age are predictive factors for response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in triple negative breast cancer.
Lysinibacillus macrolides 38328 Isolated from Agricultural Soils as a Promising Probiotic Candidate for Intestinal Health
Authors: Chen Huinan , Sun Xiaoyi , He Huilin , Ren Hongkun , Duan Haoyuan , Zhang Chuankun , Chang Qingru , Zhang Runxiang , Ge Junwei
Published: July 2022

There is an increasing interest in the use of spore-forming Bacillus spp. as probiotic ingredients on the market. However, probiotics Bacillus species are insufficient, and more safe Bacillus species were required. In the study, traditional fermented foods and soil samples were collected from all over the country in China, and 506 Bacillus were selected from 109 samples. Using the optimized procedure, we screened 9 strains, which successfully passed the acid, alkali, bile salt and trypsin resistance test. Drug sensitivity test results showed that three Bacillus out of the 9 isolates exhibited antibiotic sensitivity to more than 29 antibiotics. The 3 strains sensitive to antibiotics were identified by 16S ribosomal RNA analysis, two isolates (38327 and 38328) belong to the specie Lysinibacillus macrolides and one isolate (37326) belong to Bacillus halotolerans. Moreover, the 3 strains were confirmed safe through animal experiments. Finally, L. macrolides 38327 and 38328 showed the protection in Salmonella infection mouse model, which manifested in slowing down weight loss, reducing bacterial load, improving antioxidant capacity. Altogether, our data demonstrate selected L. macrolides strains can be used novel probiotics for intestinal health.
Integrated interpretation of most positive and most negative curvature of ground gravity data across the Shillong plateau and Mikir hills periphery, north-east India
Authors: Ghosh Gopal K.
Published: July 2022

The study area falls in one of the utmost seismically vigorous zones covering latitude 23°–28°N and longitude 88°–96°E in the north-eastern part of India. Various studies suggest that tectonic activities are still active across the Shillong plateau, Mikir hills, Arakan-Yoma fold belt, Naga hills, parts of Bengal basin, lower-upper Brahmaputra valley along with the Mishmi hills of Himalayan foothills. The available information about the thrust-faults in the area is very limited and most of the information are available from the geographic information system map, field geological studies and very limited from seismic and other data sources. In this present study, attempt has been made to carry out details study of most positive and most negative curvature attributes for understanding sub-surface structural features and able to identify structural lineament/thrust-fault in the study area using available ground gravity data in the north-eastern part of India. Further, present studied results are correlated and compared with the past derived results of three-dimensional Euler source depth locations and source edge estimations in this area. The integrated results of the curvature interpretation look promising and can able to delineate the thrust–fault locations. This paper also suggests additional new thrust-fault lineament information. As the gravity data has its own constraint hence integrated study can help to provide for better geoscientific information.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa pulmonary infection results in S100A8/A9-dependent cardiac dysfunction
Authors: Rajaram Murugesan , Kumar Naresh , Pestrak Matthew , Wu Qian , Ahumada Omar Santiagonunez , Dellos-Nolan Sheri , Saljoughian Noushin , Shukla Rajnikant , Mitchem Cortney , Nagareddy Prabhakara , Ganesan Latha Prabha , Lafuse William , Wozniak Daniel
Published: July 2022

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P.a.) infection accounts nearly 20% of all cases of hospital acquired pneumonia with mortality rates > 30%. P.a. infection induces a robust inflammatory response, which ideally enhances bacterial clearance. Unfortunately, excessive inflammation can also have negative effects, and often leads to cardiac dysfunction with associated morbidity and mortality. However, it remains unclear how P.a. lung infection causes cardiac dysfunction. Using a murine pneumonia model, we found that of P.a. infection of lungs led to severe cardiac left ventricular dysfunction and electrical abnormalities. More specifically, we found that neutrophil recruitment and release of S100A8/A9 in the lungs activates the TLR4/RAGE signaling pathways, which in turn enhance systemic inflammation and subsequent cardiac dysfunction. Paradoxically, global deletion of S100A8/A9 did not improve but aggravated cardiac dysfunction and immortality likely due to uncontrolled bacterial burden in the lungs and heart. Our results indicate that P.a. infection induced release of S100A8/9 is double-edged, providing increased risk for cardiac dysfunction yet limiting P.a. growth.
Long-Term Outcome of Cohen Vs. Gil-Verent Methods in The Treatment 0f Vesicoureteral Reflux
Authors: Hosseini Seyedeh Elnaz , mahdavynia Soheila , Hooman Nakysa , Jahangiri Fariba , Nasiri Seyyed Javad , Otoukesh Hasan , Hosseini Rozita , Nickavar Azar
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is among the most common congenital disorder of urinary system. There are several surgical methods to manage this disease. In this study we aimed to assess and compare the result of the two common surgical techniques including Cohen and Gil-Vernet methods of in children with VUR.Method and materials: In this retrospective study, we gathered the record of all patients who underwent Cohen or Gil-Vernet surgeries during 2010-2017. We recruited all the infants and patients until age of 15 years who had moderate and high grade VUR in voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). We gathered and compared information regarding the grade of VUR, the number of breaks through urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney parenchymal scars and the side effects of surgery between two methods. Results: In this study we recruited 89 patients with mean age of 66.56 ± 31.51months. Of all patients, 18 cases underwent Cohen surgery and for 71 patients Gil-Vernet was performed. All the patients showed improvement regarding the grade of reflux according to VCUG (p:.001). The incidence rate of UTI was decreased in both groups (p:0.001). The clinical profile of the study participants was improved in both group and there was not any difference between two surgical modalities in this respect. The mean follow-up time was 59.11 ± 23.4 months.Conclusion: Both Cohen or Gil-Vernet surgeries were effective methods for treating VUR. Also, there was not any significant difference between two surgical techniques.
Overexpression of legumain and matrix metallopeptidase-9 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells are associated with the severity of coronary artery stenosis
Authors: Sedehi Ameneh Zamani , Samani Keihan Ghatreh , Khaledifar Arsalan , Mohseni Roohollah
Published: July 2022

Aims
The deregulation of cellular and molecular events in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) may have contributed to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. We investigated the alteration of the expression of legumain and matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9) in PBMCs of subjects who underwent angiography.
Main methods:
Following a thorough clinical examination and anthropometric assessments, 90 individuals were divided into two groups: 56 CAD participants (subjects with coronary artery stenosis ≥ 50%) and 34 Non-CAD participants (subjects with coronary artery stenosis ≤ 30%). Fasting blood sugar (FBS), total cholesterol (Chol), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglyceride cholesterol (TG) were evaluated. The severity of coronary artery stenosis was recorded. Additionally, Real-time PCR was used to assess the gene expression of legumain and MMP-9. Legumain and MMP-9 protein levels were also assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blot techniques, respectively.
Key findings:
Elevated FBS was positively associated with the increased expression of legumain and coronary artery stenosis. Our results revealed that legumain and MMP-9 were upregulated both at the level of transcription and translation. Moreover, the upregulation of legumain and MMP-9 had a significant positive correlation with the severity of coronary artery stenosis.
Significance:
Our hypothesis that upregulation of involved extracellular proteases such as legumain and MMP-9 in PBMCs plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis before monocyte recruitment and its subsequent processes was confirmed by the significant correlation of overexpression legumain and MMP-9 with coronary artery stenosis.
Proteomics data reveals Wnt signaling involvement in the hippocampal-dependent behavioral impairment in THRSP-overexpressing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder mouse model
Authors: Custodio Raly James , Kim Hee Jin , Kim Jiyeon , Ortiz Darlene Mae , Kim Mikyung , Buctot Danilo , Sayson Leandro Val , Lee Hyun Jun , Kim Bung-Nyun , Yi Eugene , Cheong Jae Hoon
Published: July 2022

Despite the predominance and high heritability of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), its etiology remains unclear. Preclinical and clinical evidence partially implicates impaired limbic system function, particularly in the hippocampus (HPC). Children diagnosed with ADHD often struggle with deficits in executive function, temporal processing, and visuospatial memory, the defining hallmarks of the predominantly inattentive presentation (ADHD-PI), which is subserved by the hippocampus. However, the specific genes/proteins involved and how they shape hippocampal structure to influence ADHD behavior remain poorly understood. As an exploratory tool, hippocampal tissues from a mouse model overexpressing (OE) thyroid hormone-responsive protein (THRSP) with defining characteristics of ADHD-PI were utilized for proteomic analyses. Integrated proteomics and network analysis revealed altered protein network involved in Wnt signaling. Compared with THRSP knockout (KO) mice, THRSP OE mice showed impaired attention and memory, accompanied by dysregulated Wnt signaling affecting hippocampal cell proliferation (BrdU) and neurogenic marker expression (i.e., NEU-N, GFAP), markers of neural stem cell (NSC) activity. In addition, combined exposure to an enriched environment and treadmill exercise could improve behavioral deficits in THRSP OE mice and Wnt signaling and NSC activity.
Artificial Intelligence-Based Traffic Flow Prediction: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sayed Sayed A. , Abdel-Hamid Yasser , Hefny Hesham Ahmed
Published: July 2022

The expansion of the Internet of Things has resulted in new creative solutions, such as smart cities, that have made our lives more productive, convenient, and intelligent. The core of smart cities is the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) which has been integrated into several smart city applications that improve transportation and mobility. ITS aims to resolve traffic issues, especially traffic congestion. Recently, new traffic flow prediction models and frameworks have been rapidly developed in tandem with the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) approaches to improve the accuracy of traffic flow prediction. Traffic forecasting is a crucial duty in the transportation industry. It can significantly affect the design of road constructions and projects in addition to its importance for route planning and traffic rules. Furthermore, traffic congestion is a critical issue in urban areas and overcrowded cities. Therefore, it must be accurately evaluated and forecasted. Hence, a reliable and efficient method for predicting traffic is essential. The main objectives of this study are: First, present a comprehensive review of the most popular machine learning and deep learning techniques applied in traffic prediction. Second, identifying inherent obstacles to applying machine learning and deep learning in the domain of traffic prediction.
Comparative evaluation of caries prevalence among group of Egyptian adolescence using DMFS and ICDASII methods: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Zaazou Mohamed , Zaki Dalia , Abdelnabi Ali , Hamdy Tamer , Saleh Reham , Hassan Shahinaz , Zaki Zeinab , Moharam Lamiaa
Published: July 2022

Background
to compare and describe outcomes regarding the prevalence of dental caries among group of Egyptian students using two caries assessment indices; DMFS and ICDAS II.
Methods
This descriptive, cross-sectional study included 2760 school students with age range from 15–18 years. Participants were selected randomly from public secondary schools in the Great Cairo, Egypt. The examinations were achieved by 6 trained and previously calibrated examiners using a diagnostic mirror, compressed air and a WHO probe. Two different methods of caries detection were used; DMFS index and ICDAS II system. In DMFS index; the number of decayed (D), missing (M) and filled (F) surfaces was recorded. In the ICDAS II, the assessment of both cavitated and non-cavaitated carious, missed and teeth with restorations /sealants was recorded. Examiners performed the oral examination for both scoring systems in an alternating manner. Data were collected and subsequently analyzed.
Results
The prevalence of dental caries among secondary school students in the Great Cairo was (69.56%) and (78.29%) for DMFS and ICDAS II, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the DMFS and ICDAS II methods regarding the recorded number of caries affected teeth and cavitated teeth surfaces.
Conclusions
The prevalence of dental caries among Egyptian adolescent is high. ICDAS scoring system revealed higher caries prevalence values than DMFS method. ICDAS method is the best choice for the preventive goals, while DMFS is sufficient for clinical goals.
Emotional Awareness in Children Exposed to Interparental Violence and Its Relation to Symptoms and Protective Variables
Authors: Ortiz-Jiménez Eva Mª , Gómez-Benito Juana , Llac Selene Liz , Ochoa Susana
Published: July 2022

Aims
This study was to analyze the relationship of the emotional awareness (EA) in children exposed to intimate partner violence (EIPV) aged 8–12 with internalizing and externalizing symptoms, and protective factors such as social skills, self-esteem, and resilience.
Method
Participants were 61 children (M = 10 years, SD = 1.25, 52.5% girls), EIPV patients from three CSMIJs of the Barcelona metropolitan area was interviewed. Spearman correlations were made to assess the relation between the EA and the clinical and protective factors. Multiple linear regression models were constructed using the stepwise method to determine the signifcant clinical and protective factors that were most relevant in bivariant analysis to explain each of the EA subscales.
Results
the following results were produced: greater EA meant more symptoms, mainly trait anxiety (TA), depression, dysphoria, and low self-esteem from the CDI, as well as predominant sadness, fear, and anger from the MOOD questionnaire. There was also a lesser effect on other symptoms such as isolation, somatic complaints, altered thinking, attention problems, criminal behavior, total externalizing, and total internalizing, from the CBCL. Relating EA with protective factors, the results demonstrate that greater EA carries with it a greater self-esteem from the Rosemberg; resilience capacity: self-esteem, creativity and humor factors from the personal resilience factors (PRF), internal protective factor (IPF), external protective factor (EPF); and improved social skills: appropriate social skills, friendship from the MESSY.
Conclusion
we may conclude that EA is a relevant factor in this sample of EIPV children, and it may be related with both internalizing and externalizing symptoms, as well as with protective factors such as resilience, self-esteem, and social skills.
WITHDRAWN: Heavy Metals Treatment in Groundwater at Landfill Sites by Permeable Reactive Barriers(PRBs) Filled With Waste Materials
Authors: Jagoda S.W. , Hasini K.A.A. , Dayanthi Neetha
Published: July 2022

Groundwater at landfill sites has usually been contaminated with different types of contaminants including heavy metals. This is a great threat to the surrounding environment. Permeable Reactive Barrier (PRB) is a potential in-situ treatment system for groundwater contaminated with landfill-leachate. This study was conducted to investigate the applicability of a ‘composite reactive media’ (COM) mainly composed of waste materials, for Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs), to treat heavy metals (Fe, Pb, Cu, As, Mn, Zn and Cd) in groundwater at landfill sites. COM was composed of 40% BMW, 40% BC, 10% GAC and 10% Zeolite on the volume basis. The average removal efficiencies of Fe, Pb, Cu, As, Mn, Zn and Cd in an upward column were 70.9 ± 2.7%, 80.9 ± 3.2%,72.2 ± 1.6%,76.3 ± 2.5%, 81.6 ± 6.3%, 88.0 ± 2.0% and 67.3 ± 4.6%, respectively. The average removal efficiencies of Fe, Pb, Cu, As, Mn, Zn and Cd in a bench-scale PRB reactor (0.85m x 0.25 m x 0.3 m) filled with COM, were 71.4 ± 1.3%, 75.4 ± 4.9%, 67.4 ± 4.3%, 72.9 ± 1.3%, 83.6 ± 7.6%, 89.8 ± 7.4%, 80.9 ± 7.1%, respectively. Hence, COM is applicable in PRBs as reactive media to treat heavy metals in groundwater contaminated with landfill-leachate. In addition, COM has the potential to be applied as a filtration media in treatment unit processes. It may be able to treat any type of wastewater having the same characteristcs as groundwater at landfill sites. Further, there is a serious issue associated with disposing BMW. Hence, its apllication as a reactive/filtration material would lessen its disposal burden as well.
Announcement of the First Draft Genome of Crustose Coralline Algae
Authors: Kashyap Kumar , Venu Sasidharan , Godwin Jeffrey
Published: July 2022

Crustose coralline algae are some of the most ecologically significant species of red algae occurring in the tropical reef ecosystems. They contribute efficiently to the primary productivity of the reef and helps in carbon sequestration. They act as one of the most suitable substrates for coral larval settlement and metamorphosis. Because of their encrusting nature, they also cement the reefs together, preventing their subsequent degradation. Though numerous studies on taxonomy and barcodes are available for this red algal group, genomic studies are mostly restricted to a few transcriptomes. The group also lacks a reference genome. Porolithon onkodes (Heydrisch) Foslie 1909, is one of the most abundant and ecologically important species found on the tropical reefs. The authors herewith announce the first draft genome of crustose coralline algae. A draft genome of 215 Mb size of P. onkodes was assembled from 22 Gb of paired-end raw data. BUSCO’s (Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs) genome completeness analysis indicated 71% complete BUSCOs against the Eukaryota_odb10 dataset. The assembled genome projected 8150 protein-coding genes. Further comparative and functional genomic studies of the coralline algae group will be possible due to the P. onkodes draft genome.
Aspergillus flavus induced oxidative stress and immunosuppressive activity in Spodoptera litura as well as safety for mammals
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , Chadha Pooja , Kaur Sanehdeep , Kaur Amarjeet
Published: July 2022

Background
In the last few decades, considerable attention has been paid to entomopathogenic fungi as biocontrol agents, however little is known about their mode of action and safety. This study aimed to investigate the toxicity of Aspergillus flavus in insect Spodoptera litura by analyzing the effect of fungal extract on antioxidant and cellular immune defense. In antioxidant defense, the lipid peroxidation (Malondialdehyde content) and antioxidant enzymes activities (Catalase, Ascorbate peroxidase, Superoxide dismutase) were examined. In cellular immune defense, effect of A. flavus extract was analyzed on haemocytes using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, mammalian toxicity was analyzed with respect to DNA damage induced in treated rat relative to control by comet assay using different tissues of rat (blood, liver, and kidney).
Results
Ethyl acetate extract of A. flavus was administrated to the larvae of S.litura using artificial diet method having concentration 1340.84 µg/ml (LC50 of fungus). The effect was observed using haemolymph of insect larvae for different time intervals (24, 48, 72 and 96). In particular, Malondialdehyde content and antioxidant enzymes activities were found to be significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased in treated larvae as compared to control. A. flavus ethyl acetate extract also exhibit negative impact on haemocytes having major role in cellular immune defense. Various deformities were observed in different haemocytes like cytoplasmic leakage and surface abnormalities etc. Genotoxicity on rat was assessed using different tissues of rat (blood, liver, and kidney) by comet assay. Non-significant effect of A. flavus extract was found in all the tissues (blood, liver, and kidney).
Conclusions
Overall the study provides important information regarding the oxidative stress causing potential and immunosuppressant nature of A. flavus against S. litura and its non toxicity to mammals (rat).
Factors Influencing Childhood Immunization Uptake in Africa: A Systematic Review.
Authors: Galadima Abubakar Nasiru , Zulkefli Nor Afiah Mohd , Md. Salmiah , Ahmad Norliza
Published: July 2022

Background: Vaccine preventable diseases are still the most common cause of childhood mortality, with an estimated 3 million deaths every year, mainly in Africa and Asia. An estimate of 29% deaths among children aged 1–59 months resulted from vaccine preventable diseases. Despite the benefits of childhood immunisation uptake, routine vaccination coverage for all recommended Expand Program on Immunisation vaccines has remained poor in some African countries, such as Nigeria (31%), Ethiopia (43%), Uganda (55%) and Ghana (57%). The aim of this study is to collate evidence on the factors that influence childhood immunisation uptake in Africa as well as to provide evidence for future researchers in developing, implementing and evaluating intervention among African populations which will improve childhood immunisation uptake. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of articles on the factors influencing under-five childhood immunisation uptake in Africa. This was achieved by using various keywords, searching multiple databases (Medline, PubMed, CINAHL and Psychology and behavioural data collection) dated back from inception to 2020. Results: Out of 18,708 recorded citations retrieved, 324 abstracts were screened leading to 51 included studies. The factors that were found to influence childhood immunisation uptake were classified into modifiable and non-modifiable factors and were further classified into different groups based on relevance. The modifiable factors include obstetric factors, maternal knowledge, maternal attitude, self-efficacy and maternal outcome expectation. Whereas non-modifiable factors were sociodemographic factors of parent and child, logistic factors and administration factors. Conclusion: Different factors were found to influence under-five childhood immunisation uptake among parents in Africa. Immunisation health education intervention among pregnant women focusing on the significant findings from this systematic review would hopefully improve childhood immunisation uptake in African countries with poor coverage rates.
Regional Trends and Associated Factors of Childhood Visual Impairment: A Case Study in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Han Lizhen , Jia Jinzhu , Wang Lu
Published: July 2022

Background: Visual impairment is a common child health problem. We hopes to analyze the regional trend, related factors and spatial distribution of children's visual impairment in Shandong province, to explore the spatial changes brought by time and their influencing factors, so as to provide scientific basis for prevention of childhood visual impairment.Methods: This study covers five complete cross-sectional surveys (Physical examination data in Shandong province) from 2013 to 2017, involving about 29.24 million students. The 11th International Classification of Diseases was selected as the diagnostic standard. Spatial autocorrelation and hotspot analysis methods in ArcGIS software were used to analyze spatial features. The associated factors were analyzed by multinomial logistic regression.Results: The visual impairment prevalence showed a trend of decreasing first and then increasing from 2013-2017, with slight changes. In terms of regional spatial differences, Weihai and Yantai have the highest VI rates in all years, and there was a large-scale spatial aggregation phenomenon. The southern low-value clusters, however, showed a weakening year by year. Further exploration revealed that the per capita disposable income of rural households, the growth rate of gross domestic product, total retail sales of consumer goods and number of full-time teachers were verified as risk factors for regional visual impairment levels.Conclusions: The slight rebound of the prevalence of visual impairment and the high rate in the eastern and northern regions of Shandong province need more attention. It is suggested that relevant departments should focus on the influence of regional economic and educational factors when formulating relevant strategies.