bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CFD analysis of a solar parabolic trough collector powered adsorption cooling system using nanofluid under Tunisia climate
Authors: Mhedheb Taysir , Jr Skander , Feidt Michel , Mhimid Abdallah
Published: June 2022

Energy requirements for cooling systems are growing every year, especially in regions with significant solar radiation intensity. This increase causes big electricity consumption and environmental pollution. Hence, using solar energy as a heat source instead electricity for cooling needs is considered as a promising way. In this study, a transient Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation is carried out to investigate the performance of solar Parabolic Trough Collector (PTC) powered adsorption refrigeration system using nanofluid under a typical meteorological data of Tozeur, Sahara of Tunisia. The pure oil (Therminol-VP1) and Copper/Therminol-VP1 nanofluid (2% volumetric concentration) are the examined heat transfer fluids (HTF). The model is validated against data reported in the literature suggesting that the CFD approach can accurately predict the examined system. Specific Cooling Power (SCP), thermal system coefficient of performance (COPth) and solar Coefficient of Performance (COPs) were evaluated to assess the system performance. The results indicate that the system using thermal oil (VP1) operates satisfactorily under Tozeur climatic conditions achieving a SCP of 2.7W/kgz, a COPth around 0.378 and it could produce a daily useful cooling of 1920kJ, while the COPs could reach 0.06 for 8kg of Zeolite adsorbent. Furthermore, using a nanofluid of VP1 and nanoparticles of Cu as HTF enhancer increases the system performance by 10.58%.
An empirical study on Data Empowerment driving enterprise innovation performance in Shaanxi Province manufacturing enterprises
Authors: Zhao Wenping , Zhang wengong , Lv Jiaoqian
Published: June 2022

In the modern day, data resources have become the most important elements of production in the digital economy. However, manufacturing enterprises face the challenge of being unable to maximise the value of their data resources. This article presents a hypothetical model of the link between data empowerment (DE), network capability (NC), and enterprise innovation performance (EIP), based on the perspective of data empowerment (DE). On the basis of 245 data empowerment questionnaires from manufacturing enterprises in Shaanxi Province, the results indicate that data empowerment (DE) has a significant positive impact on the network capability (NC) and enterprise innovation performance (EIP). Network capability (NC) has a positive impact on enterprise innovation performance (EIP) and acts as a partial mediator between manufacturing enterprise data empowerment (DE) and innovation performance (EIP).
Assessing internalizing symptoms and their relation with levels of impairment: Evidence-based cutoffs for interpreting Inventory for Depression and Anxiety Symptoms (IDAS-II) scores
Authors: Rosa-Caceres Ana De la , Lozano Oscar M. , Sanchez-Garcia Manuel , Fernandez-Calderon Fermin , Rossi Gina , Diaz-Batanero Carmen
Published: June 2022

Background
Tests and scales measuring psychological disorders should provide information about how scores relate to other constructs such as quality of life or functional impairment. Such information is necessary to allow that their scores contribute to clinical decision making. The current study analyzes the clinical utility of the Inventory for Depression and Anxiety Symptoms (IDAS-II) to discriminate between different levels of functional impairment and identify the IDAS-II scales that contribute most to explaining impairment
Methods
The total sample (N = 1390) consists of two subsamples: a community sample of the general population (n = 1072) selected by random sampling; and a sample of patients (n = 318) from public and private mental health services. The IDAS-II for measuring internalizing symptoms and WHODAS 2.0 for measuring impairment were administered to all participants.
Results
All scales show statistically significant higher scores in the patient sample, with Cohen's d effect sizes values greater than 0.30, except for well-being (d = 0.19). The cutoff values and their confidence intervals do not overlap with the means of either the community or patient sample. AUC values for most of the scales are above .70, except for appetite gain, ordering, euphoria, cleaning, and well-being. Multiple linear regression model using IDAS-II scales explain 57.1% of the variance of the WHODAS 2.0 (F 12.1377 = 155.305; p < .001).
Conclusions
Cutoff values provided allow us to reliably differentiate between the patients and community samples. IDAS-II scores show greater sensitivity and specificity in detecting those with greater impairment. General Depression, Lassitude, Panic and Claustrophobia contribute to impairment in a greater extent. Knowledge of which symptoms are most related with impairment, allows healthcare providers to improve treatment planning based on empirical evidence.
Air Jet Impingement Cooling for Hot-Stamping Dies
Authors: Chen Li-wei , Dat Dong Van
Published: June 2022

The strength of panel sheets can be increased by 2-3 times after hot stamping, and for high quality of hot stamped sheets, uniform cooling rate on the die face to quench the panel is needed. However, it is difficult for cooling water channels, commonly used for hot stamping dies, to dissipate heat evenly. In addition, dies are easily corroded by contact with water at high temperature. Thus, this study considers air cooling for the quenching process. The air flow can be applied to the sheet directly during the forming stage to cool and quench, eliminating difficulties with cooling channel design and providing more uniform cooling. Simulations and experiments were used to test the feasibility of air cooling for hot-stamping with CSC-15B22 steel. A simple hot stamping tool with flat die face and either water or air cooling channels was used for testing, and results show that the both direct and indirect air flow can be used for hot stamping. With indirect air cooling, the cooling rate is sufficient for complete martensite transition, though the cooling rate is 40% lower than with indirect water cooling. To improve cooling efficiency of the air cooling system and obtain more uniform cooling, an air jet impingement cooling system (direct air flow cooling) was also tested. Results show that a similar cooling rate can be obtained in both indirect water cooling and the air jet impingement cooling. Thus, it is possible for air jet impingement cooling to provide hot stamping superior to water cooling. These results can be a reference for the design of new cooling systems for hot stamping dies.
Does T1 slope minus cervical lordosis mismatch affect surgical outcomes of cervical laminoplasty in the absence of preoperative severe kyphosis?
Authors: Sakamoto Ryuji , Nakamoto Hideki , Yoshida Yuichi , Ohtomo Nozomu , Nagata Kosei , Kato So , Doi Toru , Matsubayashi Yoshitaka , Taniguchi Yuki , Tanaka Sakae , Oshima Yasushi
Published: June 2022

Background: The impact of the T1 slope minus cervical lordosis (T1S-CL) on surgical outcomes in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy undergoing laminoplasty (LP) was assessed.Methods: One hundred patients who underwent cervical LP were retrospectively reviewed. Radiographic measurements included C2–C7 lordosis (CL), T1 slope (T1S), and C2–C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Additionally, pain numeric rating scale, neck disability index (NDI), 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey, Euro QOL 5 dimensions (EQ5D), and Japanese Orthopedic Association score were investigated. According to past reports, T1S–CL > 20° was defined as mismatched. Then, based on T1S-CL mismatching, patients were divided into 2 groups.Results: This research understudied 67 males and 33 females with a mean age of 67 y. Preoperatively, only eight patients showed a T1S-CL mismatch. Besides, while the C2–7 Cobb angles did not change significantly after surgery, the T1 slope (T1S) angle increased, increasing the T1S-CL. Furthermore, no significant differences between the two groups were observed in clinical outcomes based on the preoperative T1S-CL mismatch. However, the number of patients in the mismatched group increased to 21 patients postoperatively. Additionally, since we compared clinical outcomes based on the postoperative T1S-CL, results showed a significantly worse postoperative NDI score and preop/postop EQ5D scores in the mismatched group.Conclusions: Although cervical LP showed inferior outcomes in patients with postoperative T1S-CL even in the absence of severe preoperative kyphosis (>10°), preoperative T1S-CL mismatch was not adversely prognostic.
Lifeworld perspectives of people with dementia: A meta-aggregation of qualitative studies
Authors: Eriksen Siren , Engedal Knut , Grov Ellen Karine
Published: June 2022

Objectives: This meta-aggregation aims to interpret and synthesize the lifeworld perspectives of people with dementia and develop a model for guidance in clinical practice. Method: The data consist of four meta-syntheses describing different lifeworld perspectives in accordance with van Manen’s existentials: lived relations, lived space, lived time and lived body. The meta-aggregation summarizes a range of views expressed by people with dementia in qualitative, interview-based studies, with the aim of generating a reliable model based on the studies’ findings.Results: In total, 88 studies among 1,191 persons with dementia were included. Sixteen areas of focus were found, representing four perspectives: (a) lived relations, consisting of connectedness, independence, equality and competence; (b) lived space, consisting of belonging, meaningfulness, safety and security, and autonomy; (c) lived time, consisting of being rooted in the past, being in the present, viewing the future and being in process; and (d) lived body, consisting of being functional, trustworthy, adaptable and presentable. A model shaped as a tree trunk captures the lifeworld perspectives of people with dementia. Conclusion: Sixteen areas were revealed from this meta-aggregation and form the basis of a model. This model may be used as a guide for health care personnel to ensure lifeworld-preserving care with a person-centred approach for people with dementia.
Nucleated red blood cells are predictive of in-hospital mortality for pediatric patients
Authors: Gearhart Addison , Esteso Paul , Sperotto Francesca , Elia Eleni G. , Michelson Kenneth A. , Lipsitz Stuart , Sun Mingwei , Knoll Christopher , Vanderpluym Christina
Published: June 2022

Purpose: We sought to establish whether nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) are predictive of disposition, morbidity, and mortality for pediatric patients presenting to the emergency department (ED).Methods: A single center retrospective cohort study examining all ED encounters from patients<19 years old between January 2016 and March 2020, during which a CBC was obtained. Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression were used to test presence of NRBCs as independent predictor of patient-related outcomes.Results: The prevalence of NRBCs was 8.9% (4,195/46,991 patient encounters). Patient with NRBCs were younger (median age 4.58 vs 8.23 years; P<0.001). Those with NRBCs had higher rates of in-hospital mortality (30/2,465 [1.22%] vs 65/21,741 [0.30%]; P<0.001), sepsis (19% vs 12%; P<0.001), shock (7% vs 4%; P<0.001), and CPR (0.62% vs 0.09%; P<0.001). They were more likely to be admitted (59% vs 51%; P<0.001), have longer median hospital length of stay (LOS) (1.3 [IQR: 0.22, 4.14] vs. 0.8 days [0.23, 2.64]; P<0.001), and median intensive care unit (ICU) LOS (3.9 [IQR: 1.87, 8.72] vs 2.6 days [IQR: 1.27, 5.83]; P<0.001). Multivariable regression revealed presence of NRBCs as an independent predictor for in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.21 95% CI 1.38-3.53; p<0.001), ICU admission (aOR 1.30 95% CI 1.11, 1.51), CPR (aOR 3.83 95% CI 2.33-6.30; p<0.001), and 30-day return to the ED (aOR 1.15 95% CI 1.15-1.26; P<0.001).Conclusions: Presence of NRBCs is an independent predictor for mortality, including in-hospital mortality, ICU admission, CPR, and readmission within 30 days for children presenting to the ED.
The Cognitive Functions and Seizure Outcomes of Patients with Low-Grade Epilepsy-Associated Neuroepithelial Tumors
Authors: Xie Mingguo , Qiao Jiao , Wang Xiongfei , Zhou Jian , Guan Yuguang , Liu Changqing , Zhao Meng , Li Tianfu , Luan Guoming
Published: June 2022

Purpose
The aim of the study was to evaluate the cognitive functions and seizure outcomes of patients with low-grade epilepsy-associated neuroepithelial tumors (LEATs).
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of patients who underwent preoperative neuropsychological evaluations and subsequent epilepsy surgery for LEATs. The neuropsychological results of full-scaled intelligence quotient (FSIQ) and full-scaled memory quotient (FSMQ) were analyzed, as well as the postoperative seizure outcomes.
Results
Of the 138 patients included in the study, 59 patients (40.4%) were female and 47 (36.6%) patients were children. Preoperatively, 138 patients received FSIQ assessments and 30 patients (21.7%) had an intellectual deficit (FSIQ < 80 scores); 124 patients received FSMQ assessments and 32 patients (25.8%) had a memory deficit (FSMQ < 80 scores). Younger age at seizure onset (OR = 0.93; P = 0.035) and discordant ictal electroencephalography (EEG) findings (OR = 5.26; P = 0.001) were found to predict intellectual deficits, while abnormal hippocampus (OR = 2.36; P = 0.051) as well as discordant ictal EEG findings (OR = 4.03; P = 0.007) tended to cause memory deficits. During postoperative follow-up, 123 patients (90.7%) were followed up at least 12 months, and among them, 105 patients (85.4%) got seizure-free (Engel class I), while 18 patients (14.6%) were not (Engel class II-IV); longer duration of epilepsy (OR = 1.01; P < 0.001) and discordant interictal EEG findings (OR = 5.91; P = 0.005) were found to be related to poor seizure outcomes in patients with LEATs.
Conclusion
Cognitive deficits commonly occur in patients with LEATs, especially in patients with early or childhood seizures. Early surgical intervention, however, could prevent most of patients from repeated seizure onsets and thus cognitive impairments.
Low serum iodine is associated with iodine deficiency and thyroid dysfunctions: a cross-sectional study
Authors: 徐 婷婷 , Guo Wenxing , Ren Zhiyuan , Wei Hongyan , Tan Long , Zhang Wanqi
Published: June 2022

Background The relationship between low serum iodine and thyroid dysfunctions in adults is not well understood. This study aimed to explore the relationship between serum and urinary iodine and thyroid dysfunctions in the adult population. Methods: A total of 1320 participants were included in the final analysis. We collected basic demographic information, as well as blood and spot urine samples, to determine serological indices and iodine nutritional status of subjects. Results: The median (IQR) serum iodine (SI) level was 70.5µg/L (59.6–83.6µg/L). Compared to those with 59.6µg/L ≤ SI < 83.6µg/L, subjects with SI ≤ 59.6µg/L had a higher risk of thyroid dysfunctions (OR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.08–2.75), clinical hypothyroidism (OR = 16.4, 95%CI: 3.72–72.2) and sUIC < 100µg/L (OR = 1.41, 95%CI: 1.05–2.00). The areas under the ROC curve of SI (0.554, P = 0.02) was significantly higher than that of sUIC/UCr (0.446, P = 0.005). Conclusions: Serum iodine is more sensitive than urine iodine in the diagnosis of thyroid dysfunctions. Low serum iodine concentration is associated with an increased risk of thyroid dysfunctions, especially hypothyroidism.
ΔNp63α Transcriptionally Represses p53 Target Genes Involved in the Radiation-Induced DNA Damage Response
Authors: Kudo Ken-ichi , Tsuyama Naohiro , Nagata Kento , Imaoka Tatsuhiko , Iizuka Daisuke , Sugai-Takahashi Misaki , Muramatsu Moe , Sakai Akira
Published: June 2022

Background: The DNA damage response (DDR) is a mechanism that protects cells against radiation-induced oxidative DNA damage by causing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. TP63 is a member of the tumour suppressor TP53 gene family, and ΔNp63α, a TP63 splicing variant, is constitutively expressed in the stem cell-containing basal layer of stratified epithelial tissues, including the mammary gland, where it plays a critical role in stemness and tissue development. ΔNp63α has been reported to transcriptionally inhibit the tumour suppression protein p53. This p53-repressive activity may cause genomic instability in epithelial stem cells exposed to radiation. In this study, we analysed the inhibitory effect of ΔNp63α on radiation-induced DDR.Methods: To elucidate the role of the p53-repressive effect of ΔNp63α in radiation response, we performed a p63-siRNA knockdown experiment using human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs) expressing ΔNp63α and then performed ectopic and entopic expression experiments using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). After irradiation, the expression of DDR-related genes and proteins in ΔNp63α-expressing and control cells was analysed by RT–qPCR, Western blotting, and flow cytometry.Results: The mRNA/protein expression levels of BAX and p21 were significantly increased in p63-siRNA-treated HMECs (sip63) after X-ray irradiation (4 Gy, 0.7 Gy/min) but not in scramble-siRNA treated HMECs (scr). Transcriptomic analysis showed decreased RNA expression of cell cycle-related genes and increased expression of programmed cell death-related genes in sip63 cells compared to scr cells. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis revealed an increase in apoptotic cells and a decrease in 5-ethynyl-2´-deoxyuridine uptake in sip63 cells compared to scr cells. On the other hand, both the ectopic and entopic expression of ΔNp63α in apoptosis-sensitive hiPSCs reduced the expression levels of BAX after irradiation and significantly decreased the number of apoptotic cells induced by radiation.Conclusions: Taken together, these results indicate that ΔNp63α represses p53-related radiation-induced DDR, thereby potentially causing genomic instability in epithelial stem cells.Trial registration: None
Chemical Composition, Storage Stability and Microbial Quality of Debittered Orange Seed Flour
Authors: Emojorho Ernest Eguono , Okonkwo Thomas Mmuoemene
Published: June 2022

The study was carried out to determine the effect of debittering methods on the chemical, microbiological and shelf-life of defatted and undefatted orange seed flours. The orange seeds were removed manually from sweet orange fruits, soaked in water for 12 hours and then boiled at 100 0C for 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 min, respectively. The boiled seeds were dehulled manually, ground, and a portion defatted with absolute ethanol, milled and sieved. The various flours were analyzed for chemical composition, shelf life and microbiological properties. The orange seed flours contained 8.73–17.66% amylose, 11.71–33.43% amylopectin, 20.44–43.95% starch, 2.17–3.01 g/100g histidine, 3.4–5.11 g/100g, 6.65–8.22 g/100g leucine, 3.40–4.61 g/100g lysine, 1.20–4.61 g/100g methionine, 3.37–4.97 g/100g phenylalanin, 2.39–4.15 g/100g treonine, 1.16–1.58 g/100g tryptophan, 4.03–5.5 g/100g valine, 3.34–4.63 g/100g alanine, 8.16–10.84 g/100g arginine, 7.57–10.05 g/100g aspartic acid, 0.60–1.45 g/100g cystine, 9.54–13.63 g/100g glutamic acid, 2.84–5.04 g/100g proline, 3.19–5.03 g/100g serine, 2.92–4.49 g/100g tyrosine, 1.25–18.42 µg/g limonene. The limonene which is responsible for the bitter taste of the orange seed reduced with increase in the boiling time. Peroxide value, total viable count and titratable acidity of the biscuits increased with storage, while the pH deceased with storage period.
Investigation On the Suitability of Metamorphosed Granite In Ilorin Nigeria For Road Construction and Polished Rock
Authors: Olatunjji K.J. , Kamilu D.O. , Oladiti A. G. , Akanji F.A. , Ibrahim A.O. , Abubakar A. A. , Kolawole M.F.
Published: June 2022

The suitability of metamorphosed granite for road construction and polished rock were investigated. Three samples A, B and C were handpicked from Man Hardi Quarry Ilorin using random sampling method. The samples were subjected to different test namely, chemical analysis, polish value, oxidation properties, compressive strength and hardness test. The chemical analysis shows the silica contents for samples A, B and C are 67.73%, 73.62% and 72.40% respectively, specific gravity obtained are 4.52, 4.80 and 3.60 for sample A, B and C. The oxidation properties test reported with no peeling was observed, the polish stone value (psv) test for the samples resulted in good abrasiveness and produce attractive colour. The values for samples A, B and C are 90.88, 97.36 and 93.71 while respectively compressive strength test estimation obtained were 142.37, 201.62 and 164.62 for sample A, B and C. The Hardness test values are 85.59, 96.84 and 88.11 respectively. Hence, the value obtained from the investigation on the suitability of metamorphosed granites for road construction and polish rock shows that they are good for constructional and polished stonework.
Safety and efficacy of 8-and 10-sector ultrasound cycloagulation: a retrospective study
Authors: Rong Zhang , Li Fuhua
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To measure the efficacy and safety of ultrasound cycloplasty (UCP) in sectors 8 and 10.Methods: Thirty-four patients with various types and degrees of glaucoma (43 eyes) underwent UCP at the Aier Eye Hospital of Tianjin University. Primary outcomes included intraocular pressure and visual acuity. Secondary outcomes included corneal endothelium, pupil area, cornea (Surface asymmetry index）SAI and(Surface regularity index) SRI , ciliary body detachment, and the safety and efficacy of UCP after trabeculectomy.Results: Twelve months postoperatively, intraocular pressure (IOP) decreased from 28.4 mmHg to 14.4 mmHg (P < 0.05). On average, IOP decreased by 44.7%, and the success rate was 55.8%. At the final follow-up, IOP decreased by 43.46% on average, and the success rate was 62.8%. There was a significant difference in the postoperative pupil area of the eight sectors (P = 0.016) within six months and no significant difference after six months. There was a significant difference in SRI between baseline and one month after UCP (P = 0.016) and no significant difference in the remaining months. There was no significant difference in corneal endothelium from the preoperative baseline. Ciliary body detachment occurred in sectors 8 and 10, and it was removed and reduced one month after surgery. The success rate of UCP after trabeculectomy was 91%, and there were no follicle-related complications.Conclusion: UCP is safe and significantly lowers IOP, with few short-term complications and no long-term complications. It is safe and effective to select sectors 10 and 8 for IOP reduction; however, there is no advantage in IOP reduction compared with sector 6.
Ameliorative Effects of Ethanolic leaf extract of Diodia sarmentosa on high fat induced cardiac tissue injury in male wistar albino rats
Authors: Korie Stephen Chinedumije , Ezejiofor Tobias I.N , Ezeji Uche E.
Published: June 2022

Background
Diodia sarmentosa is a native straggling herb found in Nigeria, especially in evergreen forest, bushland, and riverine areas. In folklore medicine, it has been used to treat ailments like diabetes, ulcers, etc. This study investigated the ameliorative effects of ethanolic leaf extract of Diodia sarmentosa on high-fat diet-induced cardiac tissue injury in male albino Wistar rats.
Methods
Thirty (30) male Wistar rats (150g-200g) were divided into five (5) groups namely; Negative control (NC) group which was not induced nor treated, Positive control (PC) was induced but not treated, Low dose extract (LDE) was treated with 250mg/kg of the extract, High dose extract (HDE) was treated with 500mg/kg of the extract and SIM group treated with 5mg/kg of Simvastatin. Cardiac tissue injury was induced by feeding the rats with high-fat diet (Ghee and Coconut oil in the ratio of 3:1) for six (6) weeks. The administration of the treatments (extract and drug) at the appropriate doses started from the 4th week till the 6th week. Parameters like Total protein concentration, Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, Malondialdehyde level, Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, Catalase (CAT) activity, Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity, and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity were carried out in the cardiac tissue of the test rats to determine the ameliorative effects of Diodia sarmentosa.
Results
Results obtained showed that high-fat diet reduced antioxidant enzymes, protein levels, and caused lipid peroxidation indicating injury in the cardiac tissue of the test rats. However, the extract at high dose significantly reduced (p < 0.05) lipid peroxidation and high GST activity in the cardiac tissue caused by high-fat diet. Protein levels and antioxidant enzyme activities in SOD, CAT, GPx, and LDH were all significantly increased (p < 0.05), when compared to the positive group. The extract at high dose possesses similar efficacy to the standard drug simvastatin used to compare the efficacy of the extract.
Conclusions
Thee evidence from this study shows Diodia sarmentosa has the potential to improve and reverse the injury in the cardiac tissue caused by high-fat diet administration in the test rats, by reducing lipid peroxidation, and increasing antioxidant enzymes and total protein concentration. This makes the plant a potential new natural product for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Prognostic significance of preoperative nutritional assessment in elderly patients who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy for stage I–III gastric cancer
Authors: Uehara Hideo , Ota Mitsuhiko , Yamamoto Manabu , Nakanoko Tomonori , Shin Yuki , Shiokawa Keiichi , Fujimoto Yoshiaki , Nakashima Yuichiro , Sugiyama Masahiko , Onishi Emi , Shimagaki Tomonari , Mano Yohei , Sugimachi Keishi , Morita Masaru , Toh Yasushi
Published: June 2022

Purpose
Surgery for elderly patients with gastric cancer is becoming more common. However, the risk factors of the laparoscopic surgery for these patients are unknown, and thus it is difficult to determine appropriate treatments for such patients.
Methods
Two hundred twenty-two patients who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy for primary gastric cancer between January 2014 and December 2017 were enrolled. Clinical characteristics and short- and long-term prognoses were analyzed in 47 patients aged 75 years or older (elderly group) and in 175 patients who were under 75 years old (non-elderly group).
Results
The presence of comorbidities was more common in the elderly group than in the non-elderly group (91.5% versus 61.7%, p < 0.0001). The rate of postoperative complications in the elderly group was significantly higher than that in the non-elderly group (42.6% vs 22.9%, p = 0.01). The 5-year overall survival rate was significantly lower in the elderly group than in the non-elderly group (66.9% versus 92.2%; p < 0.0001). In the elderly group, 5-year overall survival in patients with a low preoperative prognostic nutritional index (PNI) was significantly worse than that in patients with a high preoperative PNI (25.0% versus 80.9%; p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that the PNI value was independently associated with overall survival in elderly patients who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy (p < 0.05). In particular, the rate of non-cancer deaths after surgery in elderly patients was significantly higher than that in non-elderly patients (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
PNI value is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in elderly patients who have undergone laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer; therefore, we need to determine not only its recurrence but also non-cancerous diseases in elderly patients with low PNI.
An Immunoinformatics Study to Explore HTL Epitopes for Fungal Pathogen Aspergillus lentulus
Authors: Dubey Shreesh Kumar , Rajawat Anuradha , Gupta Harsh Mohan , Kumar Ajay
Published: June 2022

Purpose
Aspergillus lentulus causes invasive aspergillosis and responsible for harmful impact on human health, as targets pulmonary sites and causes impaired respiration. Aspergilli mycotoxins too have a significant negative influence on human and animal health. Here, we found T-cell epitopes from proteome of Aspergillus lentulus and targeted them against MHC-Class II HLA determinants to predict putative immunogenic nature. Here we used best immunoinformatics tools like PatchDock, NetMHCII server, Molprobity, ProSA, ToxinPred and ProtParam to conduct the epitopes screening and to construct a novel scheme of epitope structural and functional working. The immunoinformatics study was found to be very novel method in rapid designing of vaccines; it is an efficient way to reduce hit and trial approaches. Here we finalized four epitopes GENGVNQLQGTTLGR, ITNYFSTQKLGSSSQ, YITNYFSTQKLGSSS, and PADYTSTARALSLPM, that interacts with MHC Class II alleles and were found to show better population coverage and stability in the docked complexes. In current study we targeted membrane proteins of Aspergillus lentulus fungal pathogen, it was very less studied but found to be involved in producing harmful pulmonary impacts on human and animals. The immunoinformatics study was found to be very novel method in rapid designing of vaccines; it is an efficient way to reduce hit and trial approaches. Here we finalized four epitopes against this harmful pathogen that can elicit immune responses in host.
An Improved Deep Convolutional Neural Network by Using Hybrid Optimization Algorithms to Detect and Classify Brain Tumor Using Augmented MRI Images
Authors: Qader Shko M. , Hassan Bryar A. , Rashid Tarik A.
Published: June 2022

Automated brain tumor detection is becoming a highly considerable medical diagnosis research. In recent medical diagnoses, detection and classification are highly considered to employ machine learning and deep learning techniques. Nevertheless, the accuracy and performance of current models need to be improved for suitable treatments. In this paper, an improvement in deep convolutional learning is ensured by adopting enhanced optimization algorithms, Thus, Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN) based on improved Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO), called G-HHO has been considered. This hybridization features Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) and HHO to give better results, limiting the convergence rate and enhancing performance. Moreover, Otsu thresholding is adopted to segment the tumor portion that emphasizes brain tumor detection. Experimental studies are conducted to validate the performance of the suggested method on a total number of 2073 augmented MRI images. The technique's performance was ensured by comparing it with the nine existing algorithms on huge augmented MRI images in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, f-measure, execution time, and memory usage. The performance comparison shows that the DCNN-G-HHO is much more successful than existing methods, especially with a scoring accuracy of 97%. Additionally, the statistical performance analysis indicates that the suggested approach is faster and utilizes less memory at identifying and categorizing brain tumor cancers on the MR images. The implementation of this validation is conducted on the Python platform. The relevant codes for the proposed approach are available at: https://github.com/bryarahassan/DCNN-G-HHO.
Chromosomal aberrations: A cytogenetic study of suspected cases in North Indian populations.
Authors: Kashayap Aditya , Ranjan Prashant , Sarkar Mou , Rai Amit Kumar , Das Parimal
Published: June 2022

Introduction Every year, a considerable number of children with genetic diseases are born in India over half a million with deformities, and another 21,000 with Down syndrome, owing to the country’s high birth rate. Recurrent abortions (12.4%), recognizable syndromes (12.1%), chromosomal anomalies (11.3%), and mental retardation were the top four diseases identified in multi-centric research findings on cases referred for genetic counseling (11%).ObjectiveTo study the prevalence of chromosomal anomalies in hospitals, captured suspected patients from the North Indian population.Material and MethodsBlood lymphocyte culture was used for metaphase chromosome preparation. The G-banded karyotypes of 244 suspected patients referred by IMS and BHU during the last five months (December 2021 to April 2022) were analyzed to study the chromosomal anomalies.Results Out of the all chromosomal abnormality, 64.58 % were cases of Down syndrome, and 14.58 % of the cases had Philadelphia chromosomes. 10.41 % had Klinefelter syndrome and 4.10% of cases are Turner. However, 2% of the cases were XXXY, X q arm deletion, and mosaic form. Based on these retrospective study observations, the prevalence of chromosomal anomalies in suspected hospitalized patients of the North Indian population was calculated as 19.67%.ConclusionThe prevalence of chromosomal anomalies in the north Indian population may differ greatly from data from the United States. Chromosomal abnormalities can be diagnosed and managed more quickly with cytogenetic testing methods.
WITHDRAWN: Effect of temperature factors on the heat conduction properties of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Chen Junjie
Published: June 2022

The effect of temperature on the thermal conductivity of carbon nanotubes was studied theoretically to understand the heat transport phenomena occurring in the nanostructured materials. The thermal conductivity of macroscopic carbon nanotubes was determined by employing the nonequilibrium molecular dynamics method. The effects of different temperature factors on the heat conduction properties were investigated to evaluate the roles of phonon scattering and defects in the thermal conductivity of the nanostructured materials. The results indicated that macroscopic carbon nanotubes can conduct heat very efficiently, depending on a variety of temperature factors. The structure and allotropes play fundamentally important roles in determining the heat conduction properties of carbon nanotube-based materials. Macroscopic materials formed by single-walled carbon nanotubes typically possess high heat conduction properties. The phonon scattering and defects negatively affect the heat conduction properties because of the low degree of the mean free path of phonons. Carbon nanotube-based materials give rise to a power-law dependence of thermal conductivity with respect to temperature. The lattice thermal conductivity of carbon nanotube-based materials first increases and then decreases with the temperature. Low levels of defects can compensate for the adverse effect of strong phonon scattering on lattice thermal conductivity. A maximum thermal conductivity is achieved at low temperatures, but Umklapp scattering occurs. The thermal conductivity of graphene is significantly higher than that of carbon nanotube-based materials because of the increased degree of ballistic thermal conductance.
Sustainable magnetically recoverable Iridium coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles for enhanced catalytic reduction of organic pollutants in water
Authors: kumari Diksha , Kaur Manpreet , Yempally Veeranna , Kaur Harminder
Published: June 2022

In the present study, modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles were fabricated by surface coating with tryptophan and Iridium by co-precipitation method to afford Fe3O4@trp@Ir magnetic nanoparticles. As-prepared Fe3O4@trp@Ir nanoparticles are environmentally benign efficient catalysts for reducing organic pollutants such as 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), 4-nitroaniline (4-NA), and 1-bromo-4-nitrobenzene (1-B-4-NB). The key parameters that affect the catalytic activity like temperature, catalyst loading, and the concentration of reducing agent NaBH4 were optimized. The obtained results proved that Fe3O4@trp@Ir is an efficient catalyst for reducing nitroaromatics at ambient temperature with a minimal catalyst loading of 0.0025%. The complete conversion of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol took only 20 seconds with a minimal catalyst loading of 0.0025% and a rate constant of 0.0522 s− 1. The high catalytic activity factor (1.040 s− 1mg− 1) and high turnover frequency (9 min− 1) obtained for Fe3O4@trp@Ir nanocatalyst highlight the possible synergistic effect of the two metals (Fe and Ir). The visible-light photocatalytic degradation of 4-NP was also investigated in the presence of Fe3O4@trp@Ir. The photocatalytic degradation of 4-NP by Fe3O4@trp@Ir is completed in 20 min with 95.15% efficiency, and the rate of photodegradation of 4-NP (0.1507 min− 1) is about twice the degradation rate of 4-NP in the dark (0.0755 min− 1). The catalyst was recycled and reused for five cycles without significant reduction in the conversion efficiency of the catalyst.
Economic Prosperity, Asymmetric Natural Resource Income, and Ecological Demands in Resource-reliant Economies
Authors: Aladejare Samson Adeniyi
Published: June 2022

This study extends the literature by examining the linear and nonlinear effects of natural resource income and the contribution of environmental demands to long-term economic growth in resource-reliant economies (RREs). Data was sourced from 45 RREs from 1970 to 2019 and processed using three novel methodological techniques: the mean group (MG), augmented MG, and common correlated effects MG. Empirically, the study affirmed asymmetry in the natural resources rents-economic growth nexus. Specifically, the study found that environmental demands and positive changes to natural resources income are a blessing to long-term economic growth. In contrast, adverse changes to natural resources income are growth decelerating. Globalisation and human capital development served as control variables, and while the former accelerated long-term economic growth, the latter had an irrelevant effect on the RREs. In addition, the Dumitrescu and Hurlin causality result showed a bidirectional nexus between environmental quality and economic growth and between economic growth and negative natural resource income changes. A unidirectional causal flow from positive natural resources income to economic prosperity and from the latter to human capital development was also revealed. The study proposed relevant policy measures.
Investigation of Fracture Prevention Effects of Composite Patches Repair on Cracked Al-Plates: Experimental and Numerical study
Authors: Ranjbaran Mohammadjavad
Published: June 2022

Today’s cutting-edge world of science and technology calls for composite materials to be widely employed in numerous industries, including marine, aeronautical and automotive due to their excellent mechanical, chemical and thermal characteristics. In various engineering applications composite materials are cost-effective, reliable, life saver and efficient. By reducing the strength-to-weight ratio by significant amounts, composite materials have revolutionized the manufacturing process of aircrafts. In the present research, 50 rectangular cracked aluminum alloy 7075 specimens with central crack were repaired by glass-epoxy composite patches with 0,90 and-45,+45 fibers orientations. Then, the specimens were subjected to uniaxial tensile loading test experimentally using the 600KN Santam testing machine. Next, the force-displacement curve for each repaired sample was monitored and plotted by the testing machine user’s software. After that, Abaqus as a finite element software was employed to numerically simulate and perform the tensile test with XFEM method on developed three-dimensional models. Lastly, the experimental and numerical results were validated and compared precisely. It was concluded that XFEM as an effective technique is capable of predicting crack propagation with maximum 0.0266 error percentage. Moreover, specimens repaired by glass-epoxy with 0,90 fibers orientation have the optimum performance while the ones whose fibers orientation is -45,+45 extended more before failure.
Cytoprotective effect and clinical outcome of perioperative progesterone in brain tumors. A novel randomized mono-centeric microscopic evidence based research.
Authors: Raouf Mina Maher , naguib Mohab Mohamad , nanous walid zeidan , Hanna. George Abdel-shaheed , Gayd Marian Fathi , mohamad omyma shehata
Published: June 2022

Objectives.The primary end-point of the current study was to to provide contemporary estimate about both cytoplasmic and nuclear effects of intramuscular progesterone therapy prior to craniotomy. Secondary end-points were to track post-operative course and short term (3 months) neurological sequele.Measurments.Cellular neuronal microscopic examination by immuno-histochemistry (Progesterone receptor density ) and by H&E. Allred score for nuclear staining for PR receptors . Post-operative course included time to wean from mechanical ventilation (hours), Length of ICU stay (days) and brain neuro-imaging by brain CT). Short term outcome included sensory, motor and autonomic assessment. Patients.Two hundred fifty two (252) adult patients of both sexes aged 18–60 years, American society of anesthesia (ASA class І-ІІ ) candidate for intra-parenchymal intra-axial elective brain tumors resection , Excluded candidates included refusal to sign document for intervention, urgent craniotomy, history of endometrial or ovarian neoplasia, redo craniotomy, stented coronary arteries or history of deep venous thrombosis. Design. This research was a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled single center study. Intervention. Two groups, the control group and Progesterone (PR) group. PR group received 1mg/ kg intramuscular progesterone five days before and five days after craniotomy, while Control group received intramuscular isotonic saline daily, five days before and five days after surgery.Setting.Fixtures performed in Minia university hospital, Neurosurgery operative theatre, Floor two (non trauma floor). The study was registered in local ethical committee on April 2020. First patient enrollment was on first of June 2020 and the patient allocation in the rank ended on 30 of December 2020. Main resultsProgesterone therapy successfully increased expression of active nuclear PR receptors on oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, provided cytoplasmic and nuclear neuro-quiescence. Progesterone gave better neurological outcome on 3 month follow- up.Conclusions.Neuronal biopsy examination represented a leap in confirming anti-neuro-inflammatory action offered by progesterone.
With W/Ringing Ears: an audiovisual response
Authors: Jones Leona , Wilkins Caroline
Published: June 2022

This work emerges from The Panacousticon, a performative response in the form of a script by Caroline Wilkins (2016, 109-118) to an original essay by Freddie Rokem on eavesdropping in classical theatre (2015). As a sequel it has developed into a co-authored digital work in collaboration with multi-media artist Leona Jones.
With W/Ringing Ears draws a link between the Panacousticon, a listening device invented in the 1600s by philosopher Athanasius Kircher, and both analogue and digital tools of surveillance emerging over the last two centuries, presented in the form of images of eavesdropping. It comprises a re-worked audio script based on the original and excerpts from sound recordings made from this new material. Emerging from the images is a contextual provocation on hearsay and virtual (mis-)information assailing our ears at this time of pandemic crisis, as well as the re-appearance of the original play script by Wilkins.
The oral event of philosophising rebounds from the aural one. The acts of speaking and listening lead to the act of philosophising. Thus an initial experience of immediacy develops into a joint audio-phonic work, an acoustic act, a live encounter between performance and philosophy.
Drama and Desire: Theorising entangled performance practice
Authors: Katafiasz Kate Rose
Published: June 2022

From Plato’s erotic symposium, through sex and death on Early Modern British stages, to Freud’s venture beyond pleasure, the ludic practice of plays and playing has long been associated with desire. This paper theorises that association for the first time, to propose an affiliation between stage and psyche. If we think of Freud’s obsession with Oedipus it is obvious that psychoanalysis has always leaned on drama; but when we read drama through the lens of desire, the relationship between drama and psychoanalysis becomes more structurally precise. It is as if Freud had modelled his topology of the psyche, directly upon the three carefully curated spaces at the Theatre of Dionysus. Reading stage-as-psyche allows us to explore the complex psycho-social connexions that take place in dramatized space in new ways. The paper maps Lacan’s reading of Borromean knots onto the stage to explore how the auditorial gaze, staged voice, and obscene backstage soundscape interconnect; and how they can be activated and suppressed in various dramatic and applied performance practices to generate startlingly different states of subjectivity. The paper offers fresh insight into how performance can position us to be creative, or receptive, in relation to culture, with important implications for artists who want to challenge anthropocentric practices.
Unnamed Autofictions, Dissonant Co-labouring: a preface
Authors: Co-Labouring
Published: June 2022

This preface to our keygroup conference contribution addresses the problem of collaboration and the autofictions that sustain co-labouring: working together in difficult conditions. It contains three registers of writing. Excerpts of autofictions reveal the slippery implications of contemporary collective labour in UK higher education. Questions punctuate the text to invite the reader into the problematics that sustain our working. Theory through narrative begins to articulate the ways that might enable the support and interest necessary for dignity to be possible at work.
An efficient coupling algorithm of fluid structure interaction for marine propeller flow
Authors: Zhong Jize , Wei Zihan , Qiu Changlin , Yan Xiaojie , Sun Qibin
Published: June 2022

An efficient coupling algorithm of fluid structure interaction for propeller flow has been proposed in this paper. Inner iterations for the flow analysis in the existing fluid structure coupling method were not needed any more while the flow, vibration of the propeller and the flow mesh deformation were solved using iterations called single-loop iteration to reduce the computing time. Fluid structure coupled computations were performed for a propeller blade. Results show that the vibration of the rotating blade is excited by its hydrodynamic force and the vibration of the 1st mode is the dominant. The vibration of the blade attenuates versus time and the blade finally stabilizes at the equilibrium position. The computing time is reduced by 88.4 % using the present algorithm in this paper compared with the existing fluid structure coupling method.
Prediction of structural dynamic response based on transfer function
Authors: Wei Lejun , Dong Yinfeng , Tian Hui
Published: June 2022

The dynamic response of structures under strong ground motion is a crucial information to study and analyze the seismic performance of structures. The dynamic response of the structure to earthquake action is an important foundation for analyzing and evaluating the structure’s seismic performance. For structures having design information, finite element numerical simulation can be calculated to assess the target building’s structural dynamic response. However, because a finite element model cannot be established for a structure without detailed design information, the dynamic response of the structure cannot be calculated by finite element numerical simulation. Therefore, this paper will develop a structural response prediction model based on the transfer function and use the prediction model to determine the structure’s dynamic reaction. The obtained structural reaction prediction values are equivalent to the numerical simulation estimates, according to the prediction results. The purpose of this paper is to present a new analytical method for assessing the structural response of buildings in the lack of design data.