bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Algorithm for calculating parameters of mold temperature controller
Authors: Hong Liu , Danqi Pan , Zheqi Jiang
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a method to calculate the parameters of mold temperature controller based on the fast algorithm of mold water heating with these problems that it is difficult to calculate the parameters of injection mold temperature controller and it can’t be simulated. According to the requirements of fast mold water heating algorithm, firstly, similar transformations are used to construct a similar model to obtain a similar model with the same solution of the fluid-solid coupling mathematical model of mold water heating. The temperature field of the mold after heating is obtained through rapid simulation of the similar model. Secondly, a constrained mold temperature control equation is established, and the iterative method is used to numerically solve the mold temperature equation to obtain the mold temperature controller parameters that meet the heating conditions. An example is given in this paper to show that the calculation method of mold temperature controller parameters presented in this paper has good practical value.
Community Characteristics of Sympatric Freshwater Turtles From Savannah Waterbodies in Ghana
Authors: Gbewaa Suleman B. , Oppong S. Kobby , Horne Brian D. , Tehoda Paul , Petrozzi Fabio , Dendi Daniele , Akani Godfrey C. , Vittorio Massimiliano Di , Ajong Stephanie N. , Pacini Nic , Fa Julia E. , Luiselli Luca
Published: March 2021

Despite increasing pressures on freshwater resources worldwide, and the threatened status of most freshwater turtles, there is still limited knowledge of habitat use and niche partitioning in Afrotropical freshwater turtle communities. In this study, we describe habitat associations, community diversity, and temporal patterns of occurrence of freshwater turtle species in the Dahomey Gap ecoregion of Ghana (West Africa). We gathered data from 13 sites in central Ghana and along the Sene Arm of Lake Volta in the Digya National Park (Bono East Region). We employed opportunistic short-term surveys (at seven sites) together with longer-term (six-months duration) standardized evaluations of turtle presence and numbers in different habitats (at six sites). In addition, we interviewed fishers in the Lake Volta area to explore their perception about turtle abundance trends. Overall, 210 turtle individuals belonging to four species (Trionyx triunguis, Cyclanorbis senegalensis, Pelomedusa sp. and Pelusios castaneus) were recorded; for 139 individuals the precise capture sites and habitat type were recorded, whereas 71 individuals were observed in market places and were not considered in our analyses. We observed three sympatric species at the local scale of the various study sites. In each site, the dominant species was either C. senegalensis or Pelomedusa sp. However, Pelomedusa sp. was the most abundant species in temporary waterbodies whereas C. senegalensis was more numerous in permanent ones. A Multiple Correspondence Analysis visualized that, in permanent waterbodies all species were associated with similar physical habitat variables. C. senegalensis and T. triunguis were more abundant in localities containing woody emergent vegetation and inorganic substrate. In a Canonical Correspondence Analysis, we show that the density of herbaceous emergent vegetation was more important for P. castaneus than for C. senegalensis. Interviews with local people suggested that freshwater turtles do not have any special marketing interest for them, but that overfishing may have considerably affected the population density of these semiaquatic reptiles. Overall, Comparisons of diversity metrics between our study areas and previous literature revealed that turtle community composition was substantially the same, both qualitatively and quantitatively, all throughout the savannahs of West Africa.
Core decompression versus nonvascularized bone grafting in patients with osteonecrosis of femoral head
Authors: Mei Jin , Pang Lili , Jiang Zhongchao
Published: March 2021

Background
Core decompression and nonvascularized bone grafting are used in the early stage of osteonecrosis of femoral head for a period. Since the comparison of the core decompression and nonvascularized bone grafting are less reported, the purpose of our study was to investigate the clinical outcomes of two procedures in patients with earlier stages of the osteonecrosis of femoral head.
Methods
Between January 2018 and January 2019, 46 patients (48 hips) are divided into core decompression group and non-vascularized allogeneic fibula grafting group according to their procedures. The mean follow-up were 28.31±3.7 months (24–36 months) and 29.23±4.7months(24–36 months) respectively. the primary outcomes were VAS and HHS. Survivorship was analyzed with the collapse of femoral head or conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) as the endpoint.
Results
At the final follow-up, two hips underwent THA in core decompression group and three hips in non-vascularized allogeneic fibula grafting group. The radiographic survival rates are 76.9% and 77.3% in the two groups. Statistically significant improvements were seen in both groups on the VAS and HHS. The radiographic survival rate of hips was significantly inferior in lateral type lesion (P = 0.03; CI,0.765–2.114) and ARCO III stage (P = 0.28; CI, 1.254–58.752) in core decompression group. ARCO III stage (P = 0.02; CI, 1.351–49.344) and BMI>25 (P = 0.35; CI, 0.999–2.131) were independent risk factors for the collapse of femoral head in non-vascularized allogeneic fibula grafting group.
Conclusion
In this study, two procedures all can reduce the patient’s pain and improve functional activity. Arco stage III is a common risk factor for the collapse of femoral head in both groups. lateral lesion and BMI>25 are risk factors for the collapse of femoral head in core decompression group and non-vascularized allogeneic fibula grafting group, respectively. Both groups had good hip survival rates during the follow-up period.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019-associated ARDS and the Early Intubation: A Two-Hospital Retrospective Cohort Study in Hubei, China
Authors: Mu Jing-Lan , Qin Ming-Zhe , Sun Hui-Mei , Guo Bao-Sheng , Qiu Shi-Da , Zhang Fu , Yang Huan , Nie Juan , Liu Xu-Dong , Yeung Wing-Fai , Liu Xiao-Dong , Li Bi-Xi , Song Xiao-Yang , Lin Shao-Yan , Dong Ye-Hong , Liu Ke-Xuan
Published: March 2021

Background: More evidence in understanding the heterogeneity of COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and in improving strategy to increase the survival from the critical patients intubated is always needed. The study aimed to comprehensively explore the features of COVID-19-associated ARDS and the features and outcomes between the early and late intubation groups. Methods: This retrospective cohort included 65 adult COVID-19 inpatients with ARDS at two hospitals in Hubei, China. The ARDS in these patients was diagnosed according to the Berlin criteria. We defined intubation within 7 days of ARDS diagnosis as ‘early’ intubation and that performed from the eighth day as ‘late’ intubation based on literatures. The outcomes were invasive mechanical ventilation and in-hospital death. The log-binomial regression models were used to explore the risk factors and the Kaplan-Meier statistic was used to estimate the risk of mortality. Results: The median number of days from symptom onset to ARDS diagnosis was 11.0 (IQR, 8.0–13.0). Up to 84.1% COVID-19-related ARDS patients demonstrated multiple organ injuries. The mortality rates were 41.9% and 85.7% in moderate and severe ARDS. The early intubation and the late intubation had the differences in days from symptom onset/hospital admission/ARDS diagnosis to intubation (P = 0.023, P = 0.011, P < 0.001). Compared with the early-intubation group, the late-intubation group showed less severity at admission (median oxygenation index 159.0 95% CI 134.0-203.0 vs. 133.9 95% CI 98.3-183.2), but required more aggressive therapies (ICU 80% vs. 70%, CRRT 50% vs. 10%, prone-position 50% vs. 30%, and ECMO 50% vs. 10%) and had higher risk to die at hospital (RR, 3.18; 95% CI 1.98-5.12). Conclusion: The ARDS caused by COVID-19 was not typical ARDS due to prolonged onset time, multiple organ injuries, and higher mortalities. The late-intubation group showed less severity at admission but higher risk of in-hospital death than the early-intubation group.
Observation of High Dielectric Properties of Mg Substituted BST Ceramic Synthesized by Conventional Solid State Route
Authors: Sharma Anshu , Karol Vidushi , Prakash Chandra
Published: March 2021

Barium Strontium Titanate exhibits ferroelectric or paraelectric behaviour that depends upon the composition and other factors, making it suitable for a number of applications. We have adopted conventional solid state reaction route to synthesize magnesium substituted barium strontium titanate with low concentration of Mg (Mg= 0.005, 0.010 and 0.015). X-ray diffraction has confirmed the perovskite cubic single phase. The dielectric studies were carried out as a function of temperature at different fixed frequencies (1kHz, 10kHz, 50kHz and 100kHz) and as a function of frequency at room temperature. The Curie’s temperature of pure BST was 96°C and for Mg substituted BST samples it dropped from 85°C to 63°C. The dielectric permittivity firstly suppressed and then maximum value observed for Mg content 0.015 and dielectric loss is also less than one. The remanance (Pr) and coercivity (Ec) are obtained and analysed for ceramics samples. Improvement in dielectric properties due to substitution of Magnesium is observed.
Genipin Attenuates Tau Phosphorylation and Aβ Levels in Cellular Models of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Li Meiting , Cai Nan , Gu Liang , Yao Lijun , Bi Decheng , Fang Weishan , Lin Zhijian , Wu Yan , Xu Hong , Li Hui , Hu Zhangli , Xu Xu
Published: March 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating brain disorder characterized by neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques. Inhibiting Tau protein and amyloid-beta (Aβ) production or removing these molecules are considered potential therapeutic strategies for AD. Genipin is an aglycone and is isolated from the extract of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis fruit. In this study, the effect and molecular mechanisms of genipin on the inhibition of Tau aggregation and Aβ generation were investigated. The results showed that genipin bound to Tau and protected against heparin-induced Tau fibril formation. Moreover, genipin suppressed Tau phosphorylation probably by downregulating the expression of CDK5 and GSK-3β, and activated mTOR-dependent autophagy via the SIRT1/LKB1/AMPK signaling pathway in Tau-overexpressing cells. In addition, genipin decreased Aβ production by inhibiting BACE1 expression through the PERK/eIF2α signaling pathway in N2a/SweAPP cells. These data indicated that genipin could effectively lead to a significant reduction of phosphorylated Tau level and Aβ generation in vitro, suggesting that genipin might be developed into an effective therapeutic complement or a potential nutraceutical for preventing AD.
Childhood Immunisation Coverage in Kenya by Socioeconomic, Geographic, Maternal, Child, and Place of Birth Characteristics: Equity Impact Analysis
Authors: Allan Simon , Adetifa Ifedayo M. O. , Abbas Kaja
Published: March 2021

Background: The WHO Immunisation Agenda 2030 highlights coverage and equity as a strategic priority goal to reach high equitable immunisation coverage at national levels and in all districts. We estimated inequities in full immunisation coverage associated with socioeconomic, geographic, maternal, child, and place of birth characteristics among children aged 12-23 months in Kenya. Methods: We analysed full immunisation coverage (1-dose BCG, 3-dose DTP-HepB-Hib, 3-dose polio, 1-dose measles, and 3-dose pneumococcal vaccines) of 3,943 children aged 12–23 months from the 2014 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey. We disaggregated mean coverage by socioeconomic (household wealth, religion, ethnicity), geographic (place of residence, province), maternal (maternal age at birth, maternal education, maternal marital status, maternal household head status), child (sex of child, birth order), and place of birth characteristics, and estimated inequities in full immunisation coverage using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Immunisation coverage ranged from 82% [81–84] for the third dose of polio to 97.4% [96.7–98.2] for the first dose of DTP-HepB-Hib, while full immunisation coverage was 68% [66–71] in 2014. After controlling for other background characteristics, children of mothers with primary school education or higher have at least 54% higher odds of being fully immunised compared to children of mothers with no education. Children born in clinical settings have 41% higher odds of being fully immunised compared to children born in home settings. Children in the Coast, Western, Central, and Eastern regions had at least 74% higher odds of being fully immunised compared to children in the North Eastern region, while children in urban areas had 26% lower odds of full immunisation compared to children in rural areas. Children in the middle and richer wealth quintile households were 43–57% more likely to have full immunisation coverage compared to children in the poorest wealth quintile households. Children who were sixth born or higher had 37% lower odds of full immunisation compared to first-born children. Conclusions: The inequities in full immunisation adversely affect children of mothers with no education, born in home settings, in regions with limited health infrastructure, living in poorer households, and of higher birth order.
Genomic Expression Profiling of Colorectal Cancer in Silico
Authors: Liu Feifei , Wang Yu , Li Wenxue , Li Diancheng , Xin Yuwei , Liu Fang , Zhu Jiaan
Published: March 2021

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies of the digestive system; the progression and prognosis of which are affected by a complicated network of genes and pathways. The aim of this study was to identify potential hub genes associated with the progression and prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC).Methods: We obtained gene expression profiles from GEO database to search differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between CRC tissues and normal tissue. Subsequently, we conducted a functional enrichment analysis, generated a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network to identify the hub genes, and analyzed the expression validation of the hub genes. Kaplan–Meier plotter survival analysis tool was performed to evaluate the prognostic value of hub genes expression in CRC patients.Results: A total of 370 samples, involving CRC and normal tissues were enrolled in this article. 283 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 62 upregulated genes and 221 downregulated genes between CRC and normal tissues were selected. We finally filtered out 6 hub genes, including INSL5, MTIM, GCG, SPP1, HSD11B2, and MAOB. In the database of TCGA-COAD, the mRNA expression of INSL5, MT1M, HSD11B2, MAOB in tumor is lower than that in normal; the mRNA expression of SPP1 in tumor is higher than that in normal. In the HPA database, the expression of INSL5, GCG, HSD11B2, MAOB in tumor is lower than that in normal tissues; the expression of SPP1 in the tumor is higher than that in normal tissues. Survival analysis revealed that INSL5, GCG, SPP1 and MT1M may serve as prognostic biomarkers in CRC. Conclusions: We screened out six hub genes to predict the occurrence and prognosis of patients with CRC using bioinformatics methods, which may provide new targets and ideas for diagnosis, prognosis and individualized treatment for CRC.
Newborns in intensive care: Apgar score predicts in fifth minute
Authors: Rocha Emerson , Rodrigues Lucio FG , Moraes Luciana FC , Coelho Gabrielly , Souza Josiel , Costa Natália , Araújo Sabrina , Stroppa-Marques Ana Elisa , Gomes Fabiana , Melo-Neto João
Published: March 2021

Apgar Score (AS) < 7 is a predictor of mortality. Survival is shorter in newborns, with AS5min < 7 and the use of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze whether maternal, obstetric, anthropometric, and postnatal variables of newborns admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) may be associated with AS5min < 7. If this score is a predictor of morbidity and mortality, and if factors most associated with the worse AS interfere with survival. This observational, retrospective, and quantitative study used a descriptive and inferential approach to analyze the medical records of patients of both sexes treated in the NICU of a tertiary hospital which is a recognized reference center of maternal and child health, during 2017. Data were collected to verify the relationship between AS values ​​(AS5min < 7 and AS5min ≥ 7). AS5min < 7 was associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), premature rupture of the amniotic membrane, vaginal delivery, fetal trauma at birth, abdominal perimeter, and ventilatory support. Among these, HDP and the use of IMV were predictors of lower survival. Conclusion: AS5min was associated with maternal, obstetric, anthropometric, and postnatal variables of neonates admitted to the NICU. Specific maternal and postnatal variables interfered with the survival of these newborns.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Daily and Weekly Iron Supplementations for Improving Iron Status in the Infants
Authors: Pattrakornkul Nalinee , Ngamcherdtrakul Parichaya , Kriangburapa Warawut , Tangjaturonrasme Siriporn , Yampratoom Ramorn
Published: March 2021

Background: Iron deficiency anemia screening and iron supplementation in infants aged 6-12 months are recommended in the Guideline in Child Health Supervision. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of weekly iron supplementation compared with daily supplementation in improving the iron status in infants.Methods: A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in infants aged 6 months visiting the Well Child Clinic between May 2019 and November 2020 at Burapha University Hospital, Chonburi, Thailand. The intervention consisted of either daily or weekly iron supplementation combined with iron-rich complementary food promotion for six months. The outcomes were the differences of serum ferritin and hematological variables before and after being iron supplemented. Results: Sixty-nine six-month-old healthy infants were randomized to receive either 10 mg Fe/day (daily group) or 30 mg Fe/week (weekly group). Forty-five infants (daily group; n = 24 and weekly group; n = 21) completed the intervention. After the six-month period of iron supplementation, the mean differences of serum ferritin in the daily and the weekly group were 8.78±37.21 and -13.05 ±17.53 ng/mL, respectively (95%CI: 4.54, 39.12; P=0.015). The mean differences of hemoglobin in the daily and the weekly group were 0.58±0.82 and 0.08±0.59 g/dL, respectively (95%CI: 0.06, 0.93; P=0.026). Daily supplementation could prevent iron deficiency more than weekly supplementation significantly (P=0.029), particularly in the exclusive breastfeeding subgroup (P=0.032).Conclusions: Daily iron supplementation is more effective than weekly iron supplementation in improving iron status and hemoglobin level in infants, especially in the exclusively breast-feds.Trial registration: TCTR20191107001, November 7th, 2019. Retrospectively registered, http://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org
The Outcome of Smoker Patients With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) Undergone Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (P-PCI) Versus Thrombolytic Therapy
Authors: Karimi Mohammad Amin , Piranfar Mohammad Asadpour , Fesharaki Mehrdad Jafari , Soleimani Atousa , Habib Hananeh
Published: March 2021

Background: Because of the high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and their urgent treatment in a way that have minimal side effects and maximum benefits, this study aims to compare the mortality rate, re-hospitalization, and ejection fraction of smoker patients undergone P-PCI (primary percutaneous coronary intervention) with those who received thrombolytic therapy in autumn 2018.Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in Ayatollah Taleghani and Labbafinejad hospitals of Tehran City, Iran. The study group consisted of 42 smoker patients referred to the hospitals with the diagnosis of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and have undergone P-PCI or thrombolytic therapy from September 2018 to December 2018. Complications such as death and re-hospitalization were noted, and the ejection fraction of each patient was also recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25. Statistical significance was considered at P< 0.05.Results: The Independent Samples t-test showed no significant difference between two groups of PCI and thrombolytic therapy regarding ejection fraction (EF) at the time of admission. Also, there was no considerable EF difference after three months of follow-up between 2 groups in both smoker and ex-smoker ones (P>0.05). Mean (SD) values of EF in smoker patients who underwent PCI were 41.56 9.95 at the time of admission and 45.00 10.52 after three months of follow-up. The paired sample t-test showed no significant difference between both groups regarding EF at the time of admission and after three months. The mean (SD) values of EF in smoker patients who underwent thrombolytic therapy were 40.26 8.73 at the time of admission and 48.53 5.80 after three months of follow-up. The paired sample t-test showed no significant difference between EF at the time of admission and after three months in the ex-smoker group, but there was a considerable difference in the smoker group (P<0.05). Three months mortality rate was estimated at 23.1% in smokers with PCI and 7.1% in patients treated with thrombolytic therapy. Conclusion: Thrombolytic therapy can increase the EF of smoking patients with STEMI for a long time, indicating a beneficial effect of thrombolytic therapy to prevent heart failure.
Atomic Control of Active Site Ensembles in Ordered Alloys to Enhance Hydrogenation Selectivity
Authors: Dasgupta Anish , He Hoaran , Gong Rushi , Shang Shun-Li , Zimmerer Eric , Meyer Randall , Liu Zi-Kui , Janik Michael , Rioux Robert
Published: March 2021

Intermetallic compounds offer unique opportunities for atom-by-atom manipulation of catalytic ensembles through precise stoichiometric control. The [Pd, (M), Zn] γ-brass phase allows for controlled synthesis of Pd-M-Pd catalytic sites (M = Zn, Pd, Cu, Ag and Au) isolated in an inert Zn matrix. These multi-atom heteronuclear active sites are catalytically distinct from Pd single atoms and fully coordinated Pd. We quantify the unexpectedly large effect of active site composition (i.e., identity of M atom in Pd-M-Pd sites) on ethylene selectivity during acetylene semi-hydrogenation. Subtle stoichiometric control demonstrates Pd-Pd-Pd sites are active for ethylene hydrogenation, whereas Pd-Zn-Pd sites show no measurable ethylene to ethane conversion. Agreement between experimental and density functional theory predicted activities and selectivities demonstrates precise control of Pd-M-Pd active site composition. The diversity and well-defined structure of intermetallics can be utilized to design active sites assembled with atomic-level precision.
Mesenchymal stem cell surgery, rescue, and regeneration in glaucomatous optic neuropathy
Authors: Limoli Paolo Giuseppe , Limoli Celeste , Vingolo Enzo Maria , Franzone Federica , Nebbioso Marcella
Published: March 2021

Background

Glaucomatous optic neuropathy (GON) is an anatomofunctional impairment of the optic nerve triggered by glaucoma. Recently, growth factors (GF) have been shown to produce retinal neuroenhancement. The suprachoroidal autograft of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) by Limoli Retinal Restoration Technique (LRRT) has proven to achieve retinal neuroenhancement by producing GF directly into the choroidal space. This retrospectively registered clinical study investigated the visual function changes in patients with GON treated with LRRT. Methods: Twenty-five patients (35 eyes) with GON in progressive disease conditions were included in the study. Each patient underwent a comprehensive ocular examination, including analysis of Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) for far and near visus, sensitivity by Maia microperimetry, and the study of the spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The patients were divided into two groups: a control group, consisting of 21 eyes (average age 72.2 years, range 50–83) and an LRRT group, consisting of 14 eyes (average age 67.4, range 50–84). Results: After 6 months the BCVA, close-up visus, and microperimetric sensitivity significantly improved in the LRRT-treated group (p < 0.05), whereas the mean increases were not statistically significant in controls (p > 0.5). Conclusions: Patients with GON treated with LRRT showed a significant increase of visual performance (VP) both in BCVA and sensitivity and an improvement of residual close-up visus, in the comparison between the LRRT results and the control group. Further studies will be needed to establish the actual significance of the reported findings.
Enhanced wound repair ability of arginine-chitosan nanocomposite membrane through the antimicrobial peptides-loaded dopmine-modified graphene oxide
Authors: Fu Chuan , Qi Zhiping , Zhao Chengliang , Kong Wenlai , Li Hongru , Guo Wenlai , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: March 2021

Skin wound healing is a complicated and lengthy process, which is influenced by multiple factors and need a suitable cellular micro-environment. For skin wound, wound dressings remain a cornerstone of dermatologic therapy at present. The dressing material can create an effective protective environment for the wound, and the interactions between the dressing and the wound has a great impact on the wound healing efficiency. An ideal wound dressing materials should have good biocompatibility, moisturizing property, antibacterial property and mechanical strength, and can effectively prevent wound infection and promote wound healing. In this study, in order to design wound dressing materials endowed with excellent antibacterial and tissue repair properties, we attempted to load antimicrobial peptides onto dopmine-modified graphene oxide (PDA@GO) using lysozyme (ly) as a model drug. Then, functionalized GO was used to the surface modification of arginine-modified chitosan (CS-Arg) membrane. To evaluate the potential of the prepared nanocomposite membrane in wound dressing application, the surface morphology, hydrophilic, mechanical properties, antimicrobial activity, and cytocompatibility of the resulting nanocomposite membrane were analyzed. The results revealed that prepared nanocomposite membrane exhibited excellent hydrophilic, mechanical strength and antimicrobial activity, which can effectively promote cell growth and adhesion. In particular, using PDA@GO as drug carrier can effectively maintain the activity of antimicrobial peptides, and can maximize the antibacterial properties of the nanocomposite membrane. Finally, we used rat full-thickness wound models to observe wound healing, and the surface interactions between the prepared nanocomposite membrane and the wound. The results indicates that nanocomposite membrane can obviouly accelerated wound closure, and the wounds showed reduced inflammation, improved angiogenesis and accelerated re-epithelialization. Therefore, incorporation of antimicrobial peptides -functionalize graphene oxide (ly-PDA@GO) into CS-Arg membrane was a viable strategy for fabricating excellent wound dressing. Together, this study not only prepared a wound dressing with excellent tissue repair ability, but also provided a novel idea for the development of graphene oxide-based antibacterial dressing.
Depositional environment and diagenesis of Asmari Formation in the well-A (oilfield at western Lorestan basin) and Syah-koh Anticline (Zagros fold–thrust belt, west Iran): microfacies, sequence stratigraphy and geochemistry
Authors: Mohammadi Zahra , Gharechelou Sajjad , Mozafari Mahtab , Liyaghat Mohsen , Jalali Mahmoud , Swennen Rudy
Published: March 2021

The Asmari Formation (Oligocene-Miocene), as one of the main carbonate petroleum reservoirs of the Middle East, represents strongly variable reservoir quality on regional and local scale. One outcrop analogue (Syah-koh Anticline) and a well-A (oilfield at western Lorestan basin), both situated in western Iran, were investigated to address the reservoir characteristics. The 12 microfacies identified reflect deposition on a broad carbonate ramp reflecting an outer, mid and inner ramp setting. Three third-order depositional sequences are deduced based on interpreted Gamma-ray, sonic logs and stratal stacking patterns. The identified sequences and existence of a thicker evaporite succession in well-A points to more restricted depositional conditions with reduced connection to the open sea from the Syah-koh Anticline towards well-A. The diagenetic modifications revealed micritization, dissolution, cementation, fracturing, dolomitization and compaction. Petrographic and δ13C and δ18O analysis of cements points towards marine, meteoric and burial diagenetic alteration, whereby the cements with δ13C and δ18O values similar to those of enclosing micrite (0 to -2‰ V-PDB) reflect a marine diagenetic environment. The micrite phases enriched in aforementioned isotopes resulted from evaporation which is supported by widespread associated dolomitization. The J trend present in the δ13C and δ18O cross plot reflects the meteoric diagenetic overprint. The cements with highly depleted δ18O signatures (<-10‰ V-PDB) are linked to burial diagenetic processes. The isotopic values are in agreement with the luminescence characteristics of the cements including dull for marine, alternating bright and dull zones for meteoric and bright for burial cements.
Experimental study on the synthesis and characterization of volcanic rocks (pozzolan and perlite)-based geopolymers
Authors: AZIZ Ayoub , BENZAOUAK Abdellah , BELLIL Abdelilah , ALOMAYRI Thamer , HASSANI Iz-Eddine EL AMRANI EL , ACHAB Mohammed , FEKHAOUI Mohammed
Published: March 2021

The geopolymer preparation based on natural pozzolan is a promising route. Thus, improving the physicochemical properties of these geopolymers by adding other volcanic rocks merits investigation. The present work aims to study the effect of perlite addition, as an acidic volcanic rock, on the physico-chemical and microstructural properties of geopolymers based on pozzolan (basic volcanic rock). The perlite proportion varied between 0 and 50%. A mixture of sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was used as an alkaline activator. The perlite effect on the physico-mechanical properties of the synthesized geopolymers was evaluated by the compressive strength (Rc), P-wave velocity (Vp), bulk density (D), and porosity (P). The microstructural aspects have been explored by X-ray Diffractometry (XRD), Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results highlight the possibility of obtaining an eco-efficient geopolymer, with compressive strength of up to 50 MPa at 28 days by partially replacing the pozzolan by 40% of the perlite, due to the formation of more amorphous N-A-S-H type gel. However, the excessive content (over 40%) of perlite had a negative effect on the development of the compressive strength and microstructure of the pozzolan-based geopolymer, which was related to the formation of zeolitic phases in the geopolymer matrix. This study confirms the promise of using pozzolan-perlite-based geopolymers as sustainable building materials, which could significantly promote the development of geo-resources and environmental protection in the construction sector.
Assessing baseline dependency of anchor-based minimal important change (MIC): don’t stratify on the baseline score!
Authors: Terluin Berend , Roos Ewa M , Terwee Caroline B , Thorlund Jonas B , Ingelsrud Lina H
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The minimal important change (MIC) of a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) is often suspected to be baseline dependent, typically in the sense that patients who are in a poorer baseline health condition need greater improvements to qualify as minimally important. Testing MIC baseline dependency is commonly performed by creating two or more subgroups, stratified on the baseline PROM score. This study’s purpose was to show that this practice produces biased subgroup MIC estimates resulting in spurious MIC baseline dependency, and to develop alternative methods to evaluate MIC baseline dependency.
Methods

Datasets with PROM baseline and follow-up scores and transition ratings were simulated with and without MIC baseline dependency. Mean change MICs, ROC-based MICs, predictive MICs and adjusted MICs were estimated before and after stratification on the baseline score. Three alternative methods were developed and evaluated. The methods were applied in a real data example for illustration.
Results

Baseline stratification resulted in biased subgroup MIC estimates and the false impression of MIC baseline dependency, due to redistribution of measurement error. Two of the alternative methods require a second baseline measurement with the same PROM or another correlated PROM. The third method involves the construction of two parallel tests based on splitting the PROM’s item set. Two methods could be applied to the real data.
Conclusion

MIC baseline dependency should not be tested in subgroups based on stratification on the baseline PROM score. Instead, one or more of the suggested alternative methods should be used.
Achieving High Exciton Utilization with Folded π-Molecules
Authors: Xu Shidang , Liu Bin
Published: March 2021

π-Molecules play important roles in many applications such as organic light emitting devices, photocatalysis, photovoltaics, biosensors and medicine. Very often, high-performance π-conjugated molecules are of great research interest. However, owing to the conflict between the design of efficient π structure (good rigidity and planarity) and efficient π aggregates (minimum face-to-face π effect), it is challenging for traditional planar π or recently emerged twisted π molecules to realize very high exciton utilization in solid state. Herein, we report a new π skeleton, folded π, to achieve high exciton utilization in solids. Folded π-based molecules tend to form molecular packing patterns that are rich in π interactions, favoring the suppression of unfavorable energy dissipation pathways such as molecular thermal perturbation. Meanwhile, the potential face-to-face π effect between planar π is well prevented by the hydrogen atoms around the π planes. As a result of effective packing, all the synthesized π-based molecules show very high exciton utilization in solids.
T cell exhaustion is associated with the risk of papillary thyroid carcinoma and can be a predictive and sensitive biomarker for diagnosis
Authors: Zhu Chumeng , Dai Yuechu , Ruan Yanyun , Zhou Yong , Dai Yingjie , Fan Lilong , Jia Tianjun , LU Hongsheng , chen qi
Published: March 2021

Background

The incidence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has been steadily increasing over the past decades. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) is the most common autoimmune disease, and is related to the pathogenesis of PTC. Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) is currently used for the treatment of PTC, but there are very few studies on the clinical value of PD-1 in the diagnosis and targeted therapy of PTC.
Methods

The expressions of PD-1 in the peripheral blood of 139 patients with PTC (PTC group), 48 patients with thyroid nodules (TN group) and 63 healthy subjects (HP group) were detected by flow cytometry. The expressions of plasma T3, T4, FT3, FT4, TSH, TGAb and TPO were detected by chemiluminescence immunoassay. T cell subsets, thyroid function indexes and PD-1 were also detected.
Results

The expressions of FT3, TGAb, CD3+PD-1+, CD3+CD4+PD-1+ and CD3+CD8+PD-1+ in PTC and TN were significantly higher than that in the HP group. Moreover, CD3+PD-1+, CD3+CD4+PD-1+ and CD3+CD8+PD-1+ expressions had significant differences between the PTC group and the TN group. In addition, the expressions of TGAb, TPO, CD3+PD-1+, CD3+CD4+PD-1+ and CD3+CD8+PD-1+ in PTC combined with HT (PCH group) were significantly higher than that in the PTC group. PD-1 showed a significant correlation with PTC lymph node metastasis. CD3+PD-1+ and CD3+CD4+PD-1+ expressions were higher in N1 stage than in N0 stage.
Conclusions

The present study showed that T cell exhaustion might act as a biomarker for the differential diagnosis of PTC and TN. The combination of PD-1, TGAb and TPO might be used as an early warning biomarker for the progression of HT to PTC. Targeting the PD-1 pathway could be a new approach to treat PTC and prevent malignant transformation from HT to PCH in the future.
Association between Intravenous Iron Therapy and Short-term Mortality Risk in Older Patients Undergoing Hip Fracture Surgery: An Observational Study
Authors: Clemmensen Silas Zacharias , Kragholm Kristian Hay , Melgaard Dorte , Hansen Lene Torp , Jensen Johannes Riis , Cavallius Christian , Mørch Marianne Metz , Krogager Maria Lukács
Published: March 2021

Background: Anemia is common among ortho-geriatric hip fracture patients and is associated with prolonged recovery and increased postoperative mortality rate. Intravenous iron seems to increase hemoglobin recovery and reduce the mortality rate in patients undergoing orthopedic surgeries. This study investigated the association between short-term mortality risk and intravenous iron therapy in older patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.Methods: This observational study included 210 patients undergoing hip fracture surgery from July 2018 to Maj 2020. These 210 patients were alive and had a hemoglobin ≤ 6.5mmol/L on the 3rd postoperative day. In May 2019 a local intravenous iron therapy protocol was implemented and recommended intravenous iron (Monofer ©) if hemoglobin on the 3rd postoperative day was ≤ 6.5 mmol/L. According to treatment of postoperative anemia between 1st and 3rd day post-surgery, the patients were divided into four groups: No treatment (n=52), blood transfusion (n=38), IV Monofer (n=80) and blood transfusion & IV Monofer (n=40). Primary outcome was 30-day mortality post-surgery. The secondary outcome was the impact on hemoglobin level 14-30 days postoperatively. Multivariable Cox regression was used to estimate the 30-day mortality standardized for covariates. Results: Of 210 patients, 17 (8.1%) died within 30-days after surgery. There was a significantly lower mortality among the patients who received IV Monofer compared to those who received no treatment (HR: 0.17, 95% CI: [0.03-0.93], P = 0.041). Among the 86 patients with available hemoglobin measurements within 14 to 30 days post-surgery, there was no significant difference in hemoglobin level between the various treatment groups (mean 6.6 mmol/L, P = 0.1165).Conclusion: IV Monofer on the 3rd postoperative day in older hip fracture patients seemed to reduce 30-day mortality compared with no treatment. No significant differences in hemoglobin levels between 14-30 days post-surgery across treatment groups were found, although this was assessed in a subset of patients with available hemoglobin levels warranting further study. Trial registration: NA
Using Artificial Neural Network and Machine Learning Algorithms to Scrutinize Liver Diseases 
Authors: Sharma Tanu , Kumawat Gaurav , Chakrabarti Prasun , Poddar Sandeep , Chakrabarti Tulika , Kamali Ali-Mohammad , Kateb Babak , Nami Mohammad
Published: March 2021

In this recommendation, liver incurable record is investigated for structure gathering replica to foresee liver disorder. This proposal actualized a component replica development and near investigation for refining the forecast exactness of Indian liver incurable in three stages. In the primary stage, the min-max standardization calculation is put into the unique liver incurable record accumulated from the UCI document. In liver incurable conjecture the second stage, by the use of PSO characteristic decision, a portion of the liver incurable record from the sum normalized liver incurable record is gained which includes simply enormous impute. In the third stage, portrayal figuring’s are applied to the educational list. In this paper, an introduction evaluation between various estimation: Random Trees, Neural Network, eXtreme Gradient Boosting, Support Vector Machine (SVM), C5.0. The rule objective is to survey the rightness in social affair information concerning the benefit and plausibility of every calculation with respect to the accuracy, precision, affectability, and unequivocally. Exploratory outcomes show that the Neural Network gives the most fundamental accuracy (93.48 %.) with the least blunder rate. All assessments are executed inside a redirection environment and drove in SPSS information mining device.
Effect of Transverse Magnetic Field on Arc Characteristics and Droplet Transfer During Laser-mig Hybrid Welding of Ti-6Al-4V
Authors: Yue Chen , Yin Annan , Huang Dehua
Published: March 2021

In this study, the effect of the transverse magnetic field on the arc characteristics and droplet transfer behavior is investigated during Laser-MIG hybrid welding of Ti-6Al-4V. Especially, transverse magnetic fields with 0 mT, 8 mT, 16 mT, 24 mT, and 32 mT are studied. Results indicate that an appropriate magnetic field can increase the stability of arc characteristics, improve the droplet detachment efficiency, and reduce the welding defects such as incomplete fusion and undercut. By applying 24 mT transverse magnetic field, the maximum arc area can decrease by 48.7% with its variance changing from 2.81 mm2 to 1.06 mm2, indicating that an appropriate transverse magnetic field can shrink the arc and improve its stability. The reason of arc shrinkage is that the electric streamline in the arc rotates away from the laser side to the droplet side due to the influence of external magnetic field. On the other hand, the droplet transfer process become more uniform under the appropriate magnetic field. This phenomenon is mainly attributed to the change of Lorentz force direction during droplet rotation, which resultantly increases effective detachment energy. This phenomenon leads to the reduction of the contact time between droplet and molten pool. The droplet transfer form changes from short-circuit transfer to meso-spray transfer under 24 mT magnetic field because of the reduction of the contact time. Therefore, the incomplete fusion and undercut disappears. At last, the appropriated magnetic field parameters during the laser-MIG parameters (2 kW, 160 A, 2 m/min) is concluded as B =24 mT.
Divergent dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase isoenzyme expression in the central nervous system
Authors: Kozlova Alena A , Ragavan Vinitha N , Jarzebska Natalia , Lukianova Iana V , Bikmurzina Anastasia E , Rubets Elena , Suzuki-Yamamoto Toshiko , Kimoto Masumi , Mangoni Arduino A , Gainetdinov Raul R , Weiss Norbert , Bauer Michael , Markov Alexander G , Rodionov Roman N , Bernhardt Nadine
Published: March 2021

The endogenous methylated derivative of L-arginine, NG-NG-dimethyl-ʟ-arginine (asymmetric dimethylarginine, ADMA), an independent risk factor in many diseases, inhibits the activity of nitric oxide synthases and, consequently, modulates the availability of nitric oxide. While most studies on the biological role of ADMA have focused on endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthases modulation and its contribution to cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal diseases, a role in regulating neuronal nitric oxide synthases and pathologies of the central nervous system is less understood. The two isoforms of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH), DDAH1 and DDAH2, are thought to be the main enzymes responsible for ADMA catabolism. A current impediment is the limited data on specific tissue and cellular distribution of DDAH enzymes within the brain. In this study, we provide a detailed characterization of the regional and cellular distribution of DDAH1 and DDAH2 proteins in adult murine and human brain. Immunohistochemical analysis showed a wide distribution of DDAH1, mapping to multiple cell types, while DDAH2 was detected in a limited number of brain regions and exclusively in neurons. Our results provide key information for the investigation of the pathophysiological roles of the ADMA/DDAH system in neuropsychiatric diseases and pave the way for the development of novel selective therapeutic approaches.
The channel and characteristics of the stope supplied by atmospheric precipitation in the karst landform mining area
Authors: Shi Xianzhi , Zhang Weiqiang , Tang Yongjin , Jiang Ting , Zhang Shaojie , Chen Chao
Published: March 2021

Atmospheric precipitation causes some mining faces, mining areas or mines to be flooded every year. In order to explore the relationship between atmospheric precipitation and mine water inflow under Karst geomorphic conditions in Guizhou Province, some typical mine related data were collected systematically. It was found that atmospheric precipitation can supply mine goaf through weathered zone cracks, mining fissures, water conducting faults, water flowing subsided columns and karst channels. These channels are in the form of surface infiltration, pipeline flow and layered recharge Replenish the goaf. The results show that the mine water inflow is significantly affected by rainfall under all kinds of recharge modes, the correlation between them is significant under layered recharge mode，the correlation coefficient R reaches 0.88. The recharge channel is filled by loess and other materials on the surface, and has the self-healing characteristics of gradual plugging; the recharge amount is affected by the burial depth of coal seam and the rock combination characteristics of the upper roof. The deeper the coal seam is, the worse the recharge effect is to the mine. The results show that the atmospheric precipitation is the main water filling source of coal mine stope water inflow in the study area, and its recharge has seasonal characteristics. The mine water inflow in rainy season is 1.2-12 times of that in dry season, with an average of 1.9 times; the recharge of mine water by atmospheric precipitation has hysteresis, the lag time of surface infiltration recharge mine is generally 1-4 days, and the lag time of pipeline flow replenishing mine is generally 24 hours In general, the time lag of laminar flow recharge to mine is more than 2 days.
A comprehensive study of Al-Cu-Mg system reinforced with nano-ZrO2 particles synthesized by powder metallurgy technique
Authors: AbuShanab Waheed S. , Moustafa Essam B. , Ghandourah E. , Taha Mohammed
Published: March 2021

Recently, increasing attention has been devoted to improving the various properties of aluminum alloys such as strength, elastic modulus, and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) as well as wear and corrosion by adding different percentages of ceramics for use in various industrial applications. In this sense, powder metallurgy technique has been used to fabricate Al-4.2 wt.% Cu-1.6 wt.% Mg matrix nanocomposites reinforced by different weight percentages of nano-ZrO2 particles. The microstructure and particle size distributions of the prepared powders were examined by SEM, TEM technique and diffraction particle size analyzer. The prepared powders were compacted and sintered in argon to obtain good sinterability. The physical, elastic and mechanical properties of the sintered nanocomposites were measured. Furthermore, thermal expansion, wear and corrosion behavior were also studied. The results showed that the decrease in the particle sizes of the Al-Cu-Mg alloy by adding ZrO2 nanoparticles up to 47.8 nm for the composite containing 16 wt.% ZrO2. With increasing the sintering temperature to 570 °C, the densification of nanocomposites was clearly enhanced. Also, the coefficient of thermal expansion and wear rate were remarkably decreases about 28 and 37.5 % with adding after adding 16 wt. % ZrO2. Moreover, microhardness yield, strength and Young’s modulus were enhanced to 161, 145 and 64%, respectively after adding 16 wt.% ZrO2. In addition, increasing the exposure time was responsible for decreasing the corrosion rate for the same sample.