bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How ornithopters can perch autonomously on a branch
Authors: Zufferey Raphael , Barbero Jesus Tormo , Talegon Daniel Feliu , Nekoo Saeed Rafee , Acosta Jose Angel , Ollero Anibal
Published: August 2022

Flapping wings are a bio-inspired method to produce lift and thrust in aerial robots, leading to quiet and efficient motion. The advantages of this technology are safety and maneuverability, and physical interaction with the environment, humans, and animals. However, to enable substantial applications, these robots must perch and land. Despite recent progress in the perching field, flapping-wing vehicles, or ornithopters, are to this day unable to stop their flight on a branch. In this paper, we present a novel method that defines a process to reliably and autonomously land an ornithopter on a branch. This method describes the joint operation of a flapping-flight controller, a close-range correction system and a passive claw appendage. Flight is handled by a triple pitch-yaw-altitude controller and integrated body electronics, permitting perching at 3 m/s. The close-range correction system, with fast optical branch sensing compensates for position misalignment when landing. This is complemented by a passive bistable claw design can lock and hold 2 Nm of torque, grasp within and can re-open thanks to an integrated tendon actuation. The perching method is supplemented by a four-step experimental development process which optimizes for a successful design. We validate this method with a 700 g ornithopter and demonstrate the first autonomous perching flight of a flapping-wing robot on a branch, a result replicated with a second robot. This work paves the way towards the application of flapping-wing robots for long-range missions, bird observation, manipulation, and outdoor flight.
On the Tensile-Shear and Tensile-Peel Strengths of Resistance Spot-Welded Joints 316L Austenitic Stainless Steel Sheets
Authors: Pluphrach Ganwarich - , Phetcharat Sudniran - , Utaikaifa Torsak - , Pluphrach Kanviroon -
Published: August 2022

The key technology involved in resistance spot welding when considering the quality of the weld on tensile-shear and tensile-peel testing. The strengths of the material specimens 316L austenitic stainless steel sheet with a thickness of 2 mm, formed as a result of the appropriate welding current. Welding machines according to this technology use a controlled current of 59 kVA. It is also equipped with a pneumatic actuator with a single lever used for specimen preparation in the welding section. The times for welding are considered to be 18, 20, and 22 cycles where the welding current increased from 7 kA to 9 kA is regarded in 1 kA increments. The applied force on the electrode is constant at 3.2 kN. The prepared weld specimens are subjected to a tensile-shear and tensile-peel test, provided in the diagrams, and ultimately, the appropriate welding parameters will be effective for the benefit of the relevant industry.
The role of Photobiomodulation therapy in the treatment of head and neck radiotherapy-related trismus: a single-arm clinical trial
Authors: Borges Marcela Maria Fontes , Malta Cássia Emanuella Nóbrega , Carlos Anna Clara Aragão Matos , Crispim André Alves , de Moura José Fernando Bastos , Rebouças Lievin Matos , Coelho Bruna Carolina , de Albuquerque Clarissa Gondim Picanço , Silva Paulo Goberlânio Barros
Published: August 2022

Background
Trismus is a common adverse effect in patients with head and neck cancer. Patients have a limitation of mouth opening (< 35mm), which can compromise maxillomandibular function. The cancer treatment itself can lead to its emergence, with surgery and radiotherapy being the most involved. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a PBMT protocol for treating and reducing the severity of trismus in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.
Material and Methods
Sixteen patients who had a mouth opening < 35mm and were undergoing RT were included. The patients were evaluated daily before and after the PBMT application, measuring mouth opening and performing pain scores for the masticatory muscles using the VAS scale. We used the infrared laser (~ 808nm) extraoral, 0.1W power, 3J energy, 30s (30.61/cm2) per point, applied to temporalis anterior, masseter, and TMJ muscles. We used one intraoral point with the same wavelength and energy density as the others for the medial pterygoid muscle.
Results
The mean mouth opening of the patients increased by more than 7 mm throughout the treatment. The pain scores on the initial days showed an immediate reduction after PBMT on the ipsilateral side in the muscles and TMJ. Throughout PBMT applications, there was a significant reduction in pain scores in all muscles and the TMJ. The radiation dose of all patients was above 40Gy, which is the threshold dose for the risk of developing trismus. PBMT in patients with mouth opening < 35mm has been responsible for long-term improvement in mouth opening limitation and pain during mouth opening.
Conclusion
It is suggested that PBMT helps in pain control by anti-inflammatory muscle pathways. Further studies are needed to evaluate the preventive capacity of this or other PBMT protocols in trismus related to RT of HNC.
Cartilage intermediate layer protein attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis through the TGF-β1/Smad3 negative feedback loop
Authors: Zou Hua , Liu Feng , Cheng Jingsong , Li Xushan , Guan Hong , Liu Chunlei
Published: August 2022

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic, progressive interstitial lung disease, has multiple etiologies. It is characterized by excess myofibrocyte aggregation and extracellular matrix deposition. However, its pathomechanisms have not been conclusively elucidated. We performed a comprehensive study of mRNAs in human pulmonary fibrosis using GSE10667 microarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and identified differentially expressed mRNAs among end-stage pulmonary fibrosis (EPF), acute pulmonary fibrosis (APF) and paired non-fibrosis matched tissues. The Cartilage intermediate layer protein (CILP) mRNA was upregulated in pulmonary fibrosis and myofibroblasts upon TGF-β1 activation. However, its role in pulmonary fibrosis is unclear. Therefore, we investigated the potential effects and mechanisms of CILP on pulmonary fibrosis. In vitro, CILP attenuated TGF-β1-myofibroblast activation and inflammatory responses. Mechanistically, CILP inhibited TGF-β1-induced Smad3 activities by suppressing Smad3 phosphorylation and inhibiting its nuclear translocation by competitively binding ALK5. In vivo, CILP reduced bleomycin-induced inflammation and collagen deposition. In conclusion, CILP inhibited TGF-β1-induced inflammation and fibrosis via its negative feedback loop.
Establishment and Characterization of 21 Human Colorectal Cancer Patient-Derived Organoids
Authors: Nam Hee-Ju , Lee Ja-Oh , Kim Min-Jung , Park Ji-Won , Jeong Seung-Yong , Ku Ja-Lok
Published: August 2022

Purpose
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortalities in Korea. It is also the third most frequently diagnosed malignancy worldwide. To significantly improve its oncologic outcome, there is a need to study the diagnosis and treatment strategies further.
Methods
We established 21 patients-derived organoids from 20 patients with CRC, and characterized their cellular and molecular features. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed for these organoids to obtain mutational profiles. It generally took 3 ~ 4 weeks for organoids to grow enough for DNA/RNA extraction and drug screening. The research protocol was reviewed and approved by the institutional review board of the Seoul National University Hospital (IRB No. 1102-098-357).
Results
Single nucleotide variations, in-frame deletions and insertions, and splice site mutations of CRC related genes were found and classified based on their existing pathogenicity reports from National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Heterogeneity was confirmed by comparing the expression of each organoid in the major cancer pathway through RNA sequencing. Also, drug sensitivity assay was performed to measure cell viability after treatment with 24 anti-cancer drugs approved by FDA.
Conclusion
We used the organoid model to identify tumor heterogeneity through various screening. By integrating mutational profiles of WES, RNA-seq, and drug screening results, we could elucidate which mechanism went wrong. Results suggested that tumor heterogeneity should be considered when using organoids as a preclinical model and that organoids are a suitable platform for use in precision medicine. Organoid model is meaningful because we can figure out what therapy will be good for a patient in vitro in a few weeks so that clinical application can be suggested.
Artificial intelligence assisted thermoelectric materials design and discovery
Authors: Lu Na , Han Guangshuai , Sun Yixuan , Feng Yining , Lin Guang
Published: August 2022

Materials discovery from infinite earth repository is considered the bottleneck of each revolutionary technological progress. The discovery of the new materials is hindered by the labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Although machine learning techniques shown the excellent capability for speeding up materials discovery, it is still challenging to obtain effective material feature representations and making a precise prediction of the material properties are still challenging.
This work focuses on developing an automatic material design and discovery framework enabled by data-driven AI models. We utilize the material's thermoelectric (TE) properties prediction as a baseline to demonstrate the investigation logistic. The framework works in a closed-loop mode. Starting from the well-established TE materials databases, we develop a TE material encoding method and TE material screening model by using machine learning technology. The models show excellent accuracy for TE properties prediction. Furthermore, the developed AI models have identified 6 novel promising p-type TE materials and 8 novel promising n-type TE materials. Evaluated by the Density-functional Theory (DFT) calculation, the prediction results have a good agreement with the realistic material's TE property. The proposed framework well accelerates the design and discovery of the new functional materials.
Wireless Charging Scheme with Secured Data Transmission
Authors: Lin Chun-Liang , Wong Zi-Qian , Yang Jamie
Published: August 2022

This research task proposes a magnetic resonant coupling wireless power transfer (MRC-WPT) scheme for electric vehicles, which realizes secure data communication between the wireless charging station and the electric vehicle using binary phase shift-keying (BPSK) data transmission, thereby waving any radio frequency (RF) communication links. The secondary side is designed to accept power while transmits data back to the primary side simultaneously. The BPSK design ensures data transmission robustness to against disturbance interference. The data is encrypted by the user's biometric features for information security. The magnetic resonance performs better than that of the traditional magnetic induction in the power transmission efficiency against coil misalignments. With the Internet of Thing (IoT) architecture, the encrypted data can be stored and retrieved via the cloud server.
Chromatin-modifying enzymes as modulators of nuclear size during lineage differentiation
Authors: Meng Lingjun
Published: August 2022

The mechanism of nuclear size determination and alteration during normal lineage development and cancer pathologies which is not fully understood. As recently reported, chromatin modification can change nuclear morphology. Therefore, we screened a range of pharmacological chemical compounds that impact the activity of chromatin-modifying enzymes, in order to get a clue of the specific types of chromatin-modifying enzymes that remarkably effect nuclear size and shape. We found that interrupted activity of chromatin-modifying enzymes is associated with nuclear shape abnormalities. Furthermore, the activity of chromatin-modifying enzymes perturbs cell fate determination in cellular maintenance and lineage commitment. Our results indicated that chromatin-modifying enzyme regulates cell fate decision during lineage differentiation and is associate with nuclear size alteration.
Validation of day and night delivery of melatonin in a rat ovariectomized model of osteoporosis
Authors: Li Tian-lin , Tao Zhou-shan , Liu He-dong , Ren Mao-xian , Zhou Zhi , Jiang Wen-kai , Yang Min
Published: August 2022

Aim
To explore the difference in the efficacy of intraperitoneal injection of exogenous melatonin of daytime or nighttime in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Methods
In this study, 40 rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham operation group (Sham), ovariectomy (OVX), and daytime melatonin injection group (OVX + DMLT, 9:00, 30mg/ kg/d) and nighttime injection of melatonin (OVX + NMLT, 22:00, 30 mg/kg/d). During the period, we measured the concentration of melatonin in the blood of each group 1 hour after the injection of melatonin. After three months of treatment, the rats were sacrificed. The distal femur, blood and femoral marrow cavity contents were saved. The rest of the samples were tested by Micro-CT, histology, biomechanics and molecular biology. Blood was used for bone metabolism marker measurements.
Results
Compared with the nighttime injection, the bone mass of the rats was significantly increased after the daytime injection treatment. All morphometric parameters increased, only Tb.Sp decreased. Histologically, the bone microarchitecture was also better. In the biomechanical experiment, the femur samples of the day treatment group were able to withstand greater loads and deformation. In molecular biology experiments, bone formation-related molecules increased, while bone resorption-related molecules decreased. After treatment with melatonin injection at night, the expression of MT2 was significantly decreased.
Conclusion
Daytime injection of melatonin is more effective in preventing bone loss.
Design and synthesis of Brønsted-Lewis acidic tetraimidazolyl ionic liquids for efficient catalytic conversion of glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in water/1-octanol
Authors: Zhao Jian , Li Chao , Fan Xiaodong , Liu Hao , Liu Ziqi , Zhang Jingchao , Sun Zhizhong , Chu Wenyi
Published: August 2022

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) is a key platform compound in the catalytic conversion of biomass. Ionic liquids (ILs) have attracted much attention due to their unique tunable structures and wide applications. A series of Brønsted-Lewis acidic tetraimidazolyl ionic liquids ([TeimILs]) were designed and synthesized by introducing Brønsted acid (-SO3H) in the cation and Lewis acid (AlCl3) in the anion. Among them, [Teim-PS][AlCl4]4 exhibited good catalytic performance in the conversion of glucose to 5-HMF in the biphasic system of H2O: 1-octanol= 1:2, and the conversion of glucose and the yield of 5-HMF can reach 94 % and 71.3 %, respectively. [Teim-PS][AlCl4]4 as the catalyst can be reused at least six times, the yield of 5-HMF does not decrease significantly. The biphasic system was beneficial for the recycling of [Teim-PS][AlCl4]4 and the separation of 5-HMF. In addition, the kinetic analysis was performed on the catalytic system, and its activation energy was only 49.98 KJ/mol. This work provides a new solution for the efficient and green conversion of glucose to HMF.
Association between control group therapy and magnitude of clinical benefit of cancer drugs.
Authors: Molto Consolacion , Tibau Ariadna , Bujosa Aida , Tapia Jose Carlos , Mittal Abhenil , Tamimi Faris , Amir Eitan
Published: August 2022

Background: Little is known about the impact of control group therapy on clinical benefit scales such as American Society of Clinical Oncology Value Framework (ASCO-VF), European Society for Medical Oncology Magnitude Clinical Benefit Scale (ESMO-MCBS), National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Evidence Blocks and ASCO Cancer Research Committee (ASCO-CRC). Methods: We searched Drugs@FDA to identify cancer drugs approved between January 2012 and December 2021 based on randomized trials (RCTs). Definition of substantial clinical benefit was based on recommendations for each scale. Associations between characteristics of control group therapy and clinical benefit were explored using logistic regression. Results: RCTs with a control group of active treatment plus placebo were associated with significantly lower odds of substantial benefit with ESMO-MCBS (OR:0.27, P=.003) and ASCO-VF (OR:0.30, P=.008) but not with NCCN Evidence Blocks or ASCO-CRC. This effect was attenuated and lost statistical significance without adjustment for quality of life (QoL) and/or toxicity (ESMO-MCBS OR:0.50, P=.17; ASCO-VF OR:0.49, P=.11). Discussion: Clinical benefit scales can be sensitive to control group therapy. RCTs with substantial overlap between experimental and control therapy showed lower magnitude of clinical benefit using ESMO-MCBS and ASCO-VF scales; possibly due to differences in the weighting of QoL and toxicity between different frameworks.
Federal Job Guarantee as a Path for Ending Income Inequality and Promoting Business Sustainability
Authors: Zumaeta Jorge N. , Darity william
Published: August 2022

This paper expands on the benefits of the Federal Job Guarantee (FDG) and offers an exploration for financing the program (Paul, et Al., 2018). The FJG is a program that supplies a tangible and sustainable solution to break the cycle of long-term poverty in America by providing quality employment options for all, especially for the most financially vulnerable members of our society (Paul, et al, 2017, 2018) (Tcherneva, 2005, 2018). The program has three additional other benefits. First, it creates a counter-cyclical stabilizer that could smooth severe economic downturns (Palley, 2018) (Tcherneva, 2017), Second, it generates a skillful and competitive labor force due to active investment in skills development with the prospect of impacting a business's bottom line (Paul, et al, 2018) (Dunn, 2018), and third, it serves as a price floor for wages in the labor market (Paul, et Al., 2017). An efficient labor market creates a more efficient and productive business environment (Deming, 2017). In short, the FJG, if implemented conscientiously, efficiently, and strategically, has the potential of serving as a mechanism for moderating economic downswings and as a catalyst for igniting socio-economic development and equity, thereby contributing to a more productive and competitive labor force in support of business growth. Additionally, the COVID-19 Global Pandemic and economic crisis are offering an opportunity to rethink our tools to soften the business cycle swings (Hensher, 2020). The FJG can provide the safety net for the millions of people that have been left without employment during this crisis (Tcherneva, 2019, 2020). The FJG offers tangible and sensitive solutions for many Americans.JEL Classifications: D60, D63, D69, E62, J38, L38, L88, O22
Fused Lasso Logistic Matrix Regression Method for Multi- Source Data Fusion of Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Xu Xiang , Cao Yiyun , Xiao Wentao , Zhang Zhengyong
Published: August 2022

Raman spectrometer has a broad application prospect in the identification of dairy products quality. The diversity of measuring instruments makes the spectral data present multi-source. Multi-source data can provide more accurate information than single-source data by supporting, supplementing and correcting each other. How to fuse spectral data from different sources is a valuable research problem. In this paper, the Fused Lasso Logistic Matrix Regression (FLLMR) model is proposed for multi-source spectral data fusion, and a fast-iterative algorithm is designed by using Auxiliary Problem Principle (APP). The iterative process of the algorithm has a simple closed form. In order to verify the validity of the model and algorithm, we used 10 spectrometers to collect Raman spectral data of two kinds of dairy products respectively. Then, we used FLLMR method to perform fusion and discriminant analysis on the collected data. Experimental results show that the FLLMR method can effectively process multi-source Raman spectral data, and the model results have good interpretation. On the other hand, experiments verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
A safe ex-vivo application of an autonomous medical robot with AI
Authors: Cop Ruben , Meer Wicher van der , Carloni Raffaella , Ren Yijin , Gulabivala Kishor , Sluis Luc van der
Published: August 2022

While most robot platforms in clinical settings are still controlled by a human operator, synergy of robot technology and artificial intelligence will eventually enable fully autonomous surgical robots. Here we show such a combined robot system where neural networks ensure safety for the patient while increasing the accuracy of the system. The system is able to autonomously remove hard material and was tested by drilling a pre-operatively planned access cavity in a predetermined tooth in a phantom head. The performance of the system was validated by a deviation analysis of 56 teeth prepared by the robot system with a Micro CT scanner. The safety level of the system and the response time to potentially hazardous situations was also assessed. The results show that the system is capable of drilling openings in a consistent manner (trueness: 0.34mm, precision: 0.2mm). The neural networks allow the system to detect external forces and visual occlusion and show excellent detection of hazardous situations). The performance of the system surpasses human performance and meets clinical standards.
Hepatic artery intervention combined with immune-targeted therapy is superior to sequential therapy in BCLC-C hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Dong Hanzhi , Jian Yan , Peng Zhiqiang , Wang Meijian , Cheng Na , Liu Fangfang , Zhang Qi , Zhang Wenfeng
Published: August 2022

Background: Hepatic artery intervention combined with immunotarget therapy exerts excellent disease control and prolongs survival. However, the arrangement of hepatic artery intervention and systemic therapy confuses clinical decisions.Methods: A two-center, retrospective clinical study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee. From December 2018 to February 2022, patients with BCLC-C HCC who received targeted therapy plus PD-1 inhibitors with or without hepatic artery intervention were included. According to the treatment mode, the patients were assigned to three groups: initial hepatic artery intervention combined with immunotarget therapy, immunotarget therapy sequential hepatic artery interventional therapy, and immunotarget therapy only. The survival, response, and adverse events were compared among the three groups. Subgroup analysis and univariate and multivariate prognostic analyses were also evaluated.Results: The median follow-up time was 18.3 months (95% CI 16.7 to 20.0 months). A total of 163 patients with BCLC-C stage HCC were assigned to three groups: initial hepatic artery intervention plus PD-1 inhibitors plus targeted therapy (HPT, n=66), PD-1 inhibitors plus targeted therapy followed by hepatic artery intervention (PTH, n=56) and PD-1 inhibitors plus targeted therapy (PT, n=41). The median progression-free survival was 8.37 months (95% CI 6.35-10.39) with HPT versus 5.3 months (95% CI 3.48-7.12) with PTH versus 6.33 months (95% CI 3.75-8.92) with PT. The progression-free survival of the HPT group was better than that of the PTH group (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.45-0.97, p=0.027) and PT group (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.39-0.92, p=0.01). The median overall survival was 14.6 months (95% CI 10.6-18.7) with HPT, 10.0 months (95% CI 8.2-11.8) with PTH and 11.3 months (95% CI 8.3-14.3) with PT. The 1-year OS rates in the HPT, PTH and PT groups were 50%, 33.9%, and 34.1%, respectively. Overall survival was significantly longer in the HTP group than in the PT group (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.361-0.996, p=0.032). Compared with the PTH group, the overall survival of the HTP group had a prolonged survival trend (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.416-1.032, p=0.059). All treatment modalities were deemed equally safe. Multivariate analysis suggested that the mode of treatment, albumin level, Child‒Pugh grade and hepatectomy history were independent prognostic factors for BCLC-C HCC patients.Conclusions: Initial hepatic artery intervention combined with immunotarget therapy gained survival benefits with tolerable side effects compared with immunotarget sequential hepatic artery intervention and immunotarget therapy alone. Multivariate analysis suggested that liver reserve function was closely correlated with prognosis.
Morphometric Study of Sacral Hiatus in Dry Adult Human Sacra: Its Clinical Relevance in Caudal Epidural Block
Authors: Yadav Nisha , Jasuja Vishal
Published: August 2022

INTRODUCTION:
Correct localization of the sacral hiatus is essential for administering a successful caudal epidural block. The present study was undertaken to find out the anatomical variations of sacral hiatus by metrical method, so that it could help anaesthesiologists in the clinical field.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study was performed on 140 (83 male and 57 female) adult human sacra of known sex. Various parameters of sacrum studied were as follows; the shape of hiatus, length of sacral hiatus, transverse width at the base and anteroposterior diameter at the level of apex. For each parameter, the mean value (calculated in mm), standard deviation, range and percentage of bones identified correctly were calculated.
RESULTS
Various shapes of sacral hiatuses were observed, including inverted ‘U’ in 73 (52.14%), inverted ‘V’ in 33 (23.57%), irregular in 10 (7.14%), elongated in 10 (7.14%) and dumbbell shaped in 12 (8.57%). Absent sacral hiatus was observed in 2 (1.43%) specimens. The mean value for length of sacral hiatus from apex to midpoint of base was found to be 23.26 mm in males and 22.38 mm in females. However, the parameter was found to be statistically not significant. The mean value for transverse width at base of hiatus was found to be 14.19 mm in males and 13.54 mm in females. The mean value for anteroposterior diameter of sacral canal at apex was found to be 4.57 mm in males and 4.32 mm in females. Both the above parameters were found to be statistically not significant.
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION:
The anatomical knowledge of sacral hiatus and its variations are important in caudal epidural anaesthesia, and it may improve the success rate of caudal epidural anaesthesia.
Associations between parenteral energy/amino acids and clinical outcomes in long-term fasting ICU patients: A retrospective cohort study using a medical claims database
Authors: Yasuda Hideto , Horikoshi Yuri , Kamoshita Satoru , Kuroda Akiyoshi , Moriya Takashi
Published: August 2022

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to clarify the associations between energy/amino acid doses and clinical outcomes for intensive care unit (ICU) patients receiving parenteral nutrition.MethodsICU patients aged ≥ 18, receiving mechanical ventilation, and fasting for > 7 days were identified in a medical claims database between January 2010 and June 2020 and were compared in 3 different ways by: (1) mean daily energy dose (Low-calorie < 10 kcal/kg/day; Middle-calorie ≥ 10, < 20 kcal/kg/day; High-calorie, ≥ 20 kcal/kg/day); (2) mean daily amino acid dose (Low-amino acid < 0.3 g/kg/day; Middle-amino acid ≥ 0.3, < 0.6 g/kg/day; High-amino acid ≥ 0.6 g/kg/day); and (3) mean daily energy/amino acid dose combinations. The primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality, and secondary endpoints were hospital readmission and length of stay. Multivariate logistic or multiple regression analyses were performed to calculate adjusted odds ratios (AOR) or adjusted regression coefficients and 95% confidence intervals (CI). ResultsA total of 20,773 patients were included. With a reference of Low-calorie, AOR (95% CI) of in-hospital mortality was lower for Middle-calorie (0.85 [0.78-0.92]). With a reference of Low-amino acid, it was lower for High-amino acid (0.69 [0.63-0.76]). With a reference of Middle-calorie/High-amino acid, it was highest in High-calorie/Low-amino acid (2.25 [1.76-2.87]) and High-calorie/Middle-amino acid (1.68 [1.36-2.08]), and did not differ in Low-calorie/High-amino acid (1.10 [0.78-1.56]) and High-calorie/High-amino acid (1.16 [0.99-1.35]).ConclusionsIn ICU patients receiving only parenteral nutrition, in-hospital mortality was lower when at least 0.6 g/kg/day-amino acid is prescribed regardless of the amount of prescribed calories. Attention on amino acid doses is needed in such patients.Trial registrationThe study was conducted after being registered in the clinical study registration system in the University hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) clinical trial registry (Japan) (UMIN000042607). Retrospectively registered December 1, 2020. Available at: https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000048553
Simplified cryopreservation of sperm in Grey mullet Mugil cephalus: A robust method for wide adoption
Authors: Ramachandran Balamurugan , Kumbha Shekar Babu , Saini Bharat , Jha Natwar , Prabhakar Varsha , Venkatesan Arul
Published: August 2022

In this study, we developed a simple and robust method of cryopreservation of sperm in
Mugil cephalus. A series of experiments were conducted to develop a simplified method by changing the extender, cryoprotectant and freezing height above the liquid nitrogen (LN2) surface. Fresh sperm were diluted 1:1 in a cryomedium (cryomedium = extender + cryoprotectant) containing cryoprotective agents (CPAs) namely, propylene glycol (PG), methanol (MeOH), glycerol (GLY), ethylene glycol (EG), dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and dimethylacetamide (DMA). The final concentration of CPAs in cryomedium was 5% and 10% (v/v). The cryovials (2.0 mL) were loaded with diluted samples, fixed in cryo canes, and frozen at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 cm above the LN2 surface and also by vitrification. After 7, 30 and 180 days of storage in LN2 (-196 °C), the sperm was thawed at 30 °C for 90-120 s and their quality was evaluated. Among the experimented factors, sperm diluted in cryomedium composed of 0.3 M glucose combined with 10% EG, frozen at 4 cm above the LN2 surface recorded significantly (P < 0.05) highest post-thaw motility (73 ± 2%) and (71 ± 1%) viability respectively. However, no significant (P > 0.05) differences were observed in sperm quality at different storage days. Thus, the results of the study revealed that using this simplified method of cryopreservation high-quality post-thaw sperm can be obtained. Besides, it is expected that this method can be successfully adoptable at hatchery, farm and on-site cryopreservation of sperm in grey mullet.
The role of imaging in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis during the COVID- 19 pandemic: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Perrotta Gerardo , Geropoulos Georgios , Bhan Chetan
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Acute appendicitis is one of the most common general surgical emergencies worldwide, however its diagnosis remains challenging, with a high proportion of negative appendicectomies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the benefit of routine use of pre-operative imaging for the evaluation of suspected appendicitis.Methods: This retrospective cohort study included all cases of appendicectomies performed for suspected acute appendicitis during the first and second peaks of the COVID-19 pandemic, between March 2020 and February 2021. The control group included all cases of appendicectomies performed for suspected acute appendicitis in the previous 12 months (March 2019-February 2020).Results: 104 patients underwent appendicectomy in the study group, compared to 209 in the control group, with similar gender distribution but a significantly higher mean age in the study group (37.51 vs 31.92, p < 0.05). The two groups had similar rates of perforation and similar mean white cell count, but mean CRP was higher in the study group (86.84 mg/L vs 48.33 mg/L, p < 0.05). Imaging was used in 80.77% of the patients in the study group, compared to 61.72% in the control group (p < 0.05), with 55.77% of patients in the study group undergoing CT scans. Despite this, the difference in NAR in the two groups was not statistically significant (11.54% vs 15.79%, p = 0.320).Conclusion: The increase in the use of imaging for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic did not lead to a significantly lower Negative Appendicectomy Rate.
Geochemical study of heavy metals (lead, cadmium, copper, and zinc) in the rocks and sediments of Latakia sheet, Syria, and their environmental impact
Authors: Ghadeer afraa , Ibrahim ahlam , Masri Mohammed Sayd Al-
Published: August 2022

This study is mainly concerned with a geochemical study of heavy metals (lead, cadmium, 10 zinc, and copper) in different types of rocks, soils, and sediments in the geological sheet of latakia, To study the environmental impact of these elements and to determine the sources of pollution (natural, human). Collecting 43 rock samples (sedimentary, ophiolite complex), and 18 sedimentary and soil samples, The mineralogical content was determined using the X-ray diffraction device (XRD), and the concentration of the heavy metals was determined using the wave polarograph device in the laboratories of the Syrian Atomic Energy Authority in Damascus.
The XRD analysis showed the predominance of calcite metal in sedimentary rocks, with the presence of varying proportions of quartz metal and clay minerals, and gypsum minerals in gypsum rocks. Serpentine rocks dominated the rocks of the ophiolite complex, with a limited spread of the basic rocks, while the main minerals in serpentine rocks are serpentine (Lizardite, Antigorite), Anthophyllite, and Talc. The results of XRD analyses confirmed the effect of the mineral composition of rock formations on the mineral composition of sediments and soils, where calcite mineral dominates in sediments and soils formed over carbonate formations, and quartz mineral, serpentine, and clay minerals, on the soil, and sediments formed over the rocks of the ophiolite complex
The abundance trend increases for mean concentrations of heavy metals in rocks, sediments, and soils in the order of Zn> Cu> Pb> Cd. Polarograph results showed a decrease in cadmium concentration in most of the samples, while the concentration of zinc, copper, and lead varied according to the metallic composition of the samples.
Pollution indicators showed the presence of zinc, copper, and lead contamination in some samples. This pollution is due to human and industrial activities in the study area.
Long-term Cardiovascular Outcomes of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Associated with COVID-19 using an Institution Based Algorithm
Authors: Chakraborty Abhishek , Johnson Jason N , Spagnoli Jonathan , Amin Nomisha , Mccoy Mia , Swaminathan Nithya , Yohannan Thomas , Philip Ranjit
Published: August 2022

Background: Cardiovascular involvement is a major cause of inpatient and intensive care unit morbidity related to Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). The objective of this study was to identify long-term cardiovascular manifestations of MIS-C. Methods: We included 80 consecutive patients admitted to the intensive care unit with MIS-C who were evaluated for a year in our follow-up clinic using an institution protocol. The outcome measures were cardiac biomarkers (troponin and BNP), electrocardiogram changes, echocardiographic findings cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and graded-exercise stress test (GXT) findings. Results: The cohort included patients aged between 6 months and 17 years (median 9 years; 48.8% females). At the peak of the disease 81.3% had abnormal BNP and 58.8% had troponin leak which reduced to 33.8% and 18.8% respectively at discharge with complete normalization by 6 weeks post-discharge. At admission 33.8% had systolic dysfunction, which improved to 11.3% at discharge with complete resolution by 2 weeks. Coronary artery abnormalities were seen in 17.5% during the illness with complete resolution by 2 weeks post discharge except one (1.9%) with persistent giant aneurysm at 1 year-follow up. CMR was performed at 6 months in 23 patient and demonstrated 4 patients with persistent late gadolinium enhancement (17.4%). Normal exercise capacity with no ectopy was seen in the 31 qualifying patients that underwent a GXT.Conclusions: There is significant heterogeneity in the cardiovascular manifestations of MIS-C. Although majority of the cardiovascular manifestations resolve within 6 weeks, diastolic dysfunction, CAA and myocardial scar may persist in a small subset of patients warranting a structured long-term follow-up strategy.
Proposed Computational Relations for Design Parameters of Composite Steel Plate Shear Walls with Opening
Authors: meghdadian Mohammad , ghalehnovi mansour
Published: August 2022

Composite Steel Plate Shear Walls (CSPSW) are a developed type of steel shear walls that can be used in two ways to form the buckling due to the buckling in the steel sheet in these walls. One method is to use metal hardeners and the other is to use a concrete cover that is attached to the steel sheet through cutters. The second type is known as composite shear wall. In steel shear wall, the floor shear is transferred using the tensile field of the steel plate and after buckling due to diagonal pressure. In a composite cutting wall, the concrete wall preserves the steel plate and prevents it from buckling before yielding to pressure. As a result, the steel plate resists the shear force of the floor due to shear yield. The shear yield capacity of a metal plate is clearly greater than the capacity it seeks to obtain with the help of a diagonal tensile field. In addition, the compacted concrete wall provides insulation against sound and temperature, and makes steel shear walls resistant and fire-retardant for steel sheets. However, due to architectural and installation reasons, these walls need to be opened. So with modeling as well as recommendations and criteria related to composite shear walls from different regulations to make a relationship for the case that we want to design the wall with opening with the given relations without opening, we have finally done the process of seismic design In composite shear wall systems, along with some design recommendations, it is stated about the design of composite shear wall components.
Introducing new plan evaluation indices for prostate dose painting IMRT plans based on apparent diffusion coefficient images
Authors: Moradi Saman , Hashemi Bijan , Bakhshandeh Mohsen , Banaei Amin , Mofid Bahram
Published: August 2022

Background: Dose painting planning would be more complicated due to different levels of prescribed doses and more complex evaluation with conventional plan quality indices considering uniform dose prescription. Therefore, we tried to introduce new indices for evaluating the dose distribution conformity and homogeneity of treatment volumes based on the tumoral cell density and relative volumes of each lesion in prostate IMRT. Methods: CT and MRI scans of 20 male patients having local prostate cancer were used for IMRT DP planning. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) images were imported to a MATLAB program to identify lesion regions based on ADC values automatically. Regions with ADC values lower than 750 mm2/s and regions with ADC values higher than 750 and less than 1500 mm2/s were considered CTV70Gy (clinical tumor volume with 70Gy prescribed dose), and CTV60Gy, respectively. Other regions of the prostate were considered as CTV53Gy. New plan evaluation indices based on evaluating the homogeneity (IOE(H)), and conformity (IOE(C)) were introduced, considering the relative volume of each lesion and cellular density obtained from ADC images. These indices were compared with conventional homogeneity and conformity indices and IOEs without considering cellular density. Furthermore, tumor control probability (TCP) was calculated for each patient, and the relationship of the assessed indices were evaluated with TCP values.Results: IOE (H) and IOE (C) with considering cellular density had significantly lower values compared to conventional indices and IOEs without considering cellular density. (P<0.05). TCP values had a stronger relationship with IOE(H) considering cell density (R2=-0.415), and IOE(C) without considering cell density (R2=0.624). Conclusion: IOE plan evaluation indices proposed in this study can be used for evaluating prostate IMRT dose painting plans. We suggested to consider cell densities in the IOE(H) calculation formula and it’s appropriate to calculate IOE(C) without considering cell density vaqlues.
Processor-in-the-Loop implementation of an Adjusting Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation for Suppressing Zero-Sequence Circulating Current in Parallel PWM converters
Authors: Chebabhi Ali , Husin AL-DWA Ala Addin Mohammed , Kessal Abdelhalim
Published: August 2022

Grid-connected common DC-bus parallel three-phase PWM converters system is widely used in many power systems due to its advantages, including high reliability, sinusoidal grid currents, lower switching frequency, stable DC-bus voltage, and good flexibility. However, this topology suffers from zero-sequence-circulating-current (ZSCC), which will deteriorate the control performance, distort the grid currents, and increase power losses. In this context, an adjusted space vector pulse width modulation strategy (ASVPWM) based on ZSCC fuzzy logic control loop (ZSCC-FLC) is proposed not only to suppress the ZSCC but also to mitigate its ripples and grid current harmonics, especially the third harmonic and their multiples. The main objective of the proposed ZSCC-FLC based ASVPWM strategy is to enforce the ZSCC to zero with very lower ripples in order to accurately provide the appropriate adjusting variable for the duty rations of zero state vectors of ASVPWM. A processor-in-the-loop (PIL) co-simulation is implemented using embedded hardware on the STM32F407 microcontroller discovery-development-board as an experimental study of the proposed ZSCC-FLC based ASVPWM strategy for parallel three-phase PWM converters under balanced and unbalanced grid voltage. Finally, we quantitatively compare both the proposed ZSCC-FLC based ASVPWM strategy to the ZSCC-PIC. This comparison verifies the superiority and effectiveness of the proposed strategy over the ZSCC-PIC strategy in terms of ZSCC, ripples, and inputs currents harmonics.
Mechanistic insights into TLR7-mediated clinical outcome in COVID-19 and the potential modulatory role of N-acetylcysteine
Authors: Naushad Shaik Mohammad , Mandadapu Gowtham , Ramaiah Mekala Janaki , Almajhdi Fahad N. , Hussain Tajamul
Published: August 2022

Men with loss-of-function (LOF) variants of toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) are more susceptible to critical COVID-19. We aimed to determine the pathogenicity and binding affinity changes of TLR7 variants towards SARS-CoV2 RNA, MyD88, imiquimod, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC). TLR7 deleterious mutations increase the risk of critical COVID-19 by 16-folds (95% CI: 2.40–106.73, p = 0.005). LOF-TLR7 variants had impaired SARS COV-2 viral RNA sensing (-292.09 ± 11.86 Kcal/mol) compared to hypofunctional (-304.65 +/- 8.84 Kcal/mol), and neutral (-310.01 ± 5.29 Kcal/mol) TLR7 variants (p < 0.00001). The hypofunctional TLR7 variants had the lowest binding affinity (-270.31 ± 8.35 Kcal/mol) to MyD88, while the LOF variants had the highest binding affinity (-284.87 ± 13.20 Kcal/mol, F:4.66, p = 0.02). The TLR7 variants in critical COVID-19 had a higher binding affinity to N-acetylcysteine (NAC) than those in severe COVID-19 (-7.68 ± 0.68 vs.-7.18 ± 0.35, p = 0.03). The binding affinity of imiquimod to TLR7 variants is not altered by the TLR7 functionality (F = 1.09, p = 0.36). To conclude, men with deleterious TLR7 mutations are highly prone to critical COVID-19 due to loss of viral RNA sensing ability of TLR7, which impairs anti-viral response. NAC can circumvent the impact of these TLR gene variants and elicit anti-viral responses by relaying TLR7-MyD88 signaling while imiquimod was not effective.
Diabetes, COVID 19 and mucormycosis
Authors: Trabulsi Ali Mohammed Adnan , Derki Mohammad Wassim Ghassan , Kattan Amer , Zedan Ruziv , Nahas Louei Darjazini , Hammoud Taghrid
Published: August 2022

Aim
Patients with diabetes mellitus are more likely to develop invasive fungal infections. Mucormycosis with COVID 19 infection has recently increased, especially in diabetic patients. The goal of this investigation is to examine the clinical range of COVID-associated Mucormycosis with diabetes and subsequent results.
Materials and methods
This study includes 59 cases in Al-Mujtahid Hospital, and this study is a Cohort study.
Results
The sample included 59 patients with Mucormycosis, their average age was 58.9 years with a standard deviation of 12.2 years, where the number of patients with diabetes was 56 patients with a percentage of 95%, while the patients with high blood pressure were 25 patients with a percentage of 42%, and 46 patients suffered from covid-19 with a percentage of 78%. In addition to the previous diseases, the patients suffered from many symptoms, including: Nerve injuries, Nerves 2-3-4-5-6-7 were injured with a percentage of 33%, and Nerves 2-3-4-5-6 came in second place by 22%, and 24% of patients reported black crusts in the nasal cavity, 12% suffered from necrosis of the roof of the palate, and the most affected sinus was the ethmoid sinus in 61%, followed by the maxillary sinus with 58% and the frontal and sphenoid sinus 56%. By following up on these patients, 27 patients died and only 3 patients healed. In terms of hospital discharge, 24 patients were discharged, and the rest were discharged under their responsibility.
Conclusion
Diabetes should be controlled in all patients with Mucormycosis, and periodic examinations should be carried out for diabetic patients, and future studies should be conducted to understand the relationship between diabetes and Mucormycosis.
Correlations of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa Korth.) Use Behavior and Psychiatric Conditions from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Grundmann Oliver , Veltri Charles A. , Morcos Sara , Smith Kirsten E. , Singh Darshan , Corazza Ornella , Cinosi Eduardo , Martinotti Giovanni , Walsh Zach , Swogger Marc T.
Published: August 2022

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa Korth.) use has increased substantially over the past decade outside of its indigenous regions, especially for the self-treatment of psychiatric conditions. An anonymous, cross-sectional, online survey was completed by 4,945 people who use kratom (PWUK) between July 2019 and July 2020. A total of 2,296 respondents completed an extended survey utilizing clinical scales for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and anxiety disorders.PWUK and met criteria for ADHD, PTSD, depressive or anxiety disorders were primarily middle-aged (31-50 years), employed, more likely to have college-level education (81.3% vs. 80.0%), and reported increased concurrent or prior use of kratom with cannabis products, cannabidiol, and benzodiazepines. In all psychiatric conditions, PWUK reported less depressive and anxious moods. Self-reported quality of life was worse in psychiatric conditions whereas current pain was more severe. Based on this observational study, further clinical studies are warranted for kratom.