bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Target-oriented Percutaneous Lumbar Annuloplasty in Ambulatory Spine Center: Proctorship Description of Technique
Authors: Sharma Sagar B , Kim Jung-Hoon , Kim Jin-Sung
Published: October 2022

Objective: To describe an alternative technique of annuloplasty for treatment of chronic discogenic back pain in an ambulatory setting.Method: A retrospective review of all patients presenting with chronic discogenic low back pain and managed by target-oriented thermal annuloplasty at our institute from May 2015 to June 2019 was performed. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia in prone position. The principle of the technique relies on dividing the posterior annulus into nine equal segments on AP-view of the C-arm. The trajectory is through the Kambin’s triangle in a horizontal trajectory as much as possible to target the posterior part of the disc annulus. Each of the nine segments is treated with radio-frequency probe to produce disc alterations required to relieve the pain.Results: A total of 9 patients were treated by this method with an average follow-up of 28.1±11.4 months. The average VAS improved from 4.1±1.2 to 2.5±0.4 at final follow-up. The ODI improved from 42±6.7 to 19.98±5.6. None of the patients had any complications. The patient satisfaction rate was 82%, the rate of return to daily life was 100% and recommendation rate to others was 100%.Conclusion: Target-oriented lumbar percutaneous nine point annuloplasty may be considered as a viable option for chronic discogenic back pain patients with relatively well-maintained disc heights. A successful outcome depends upon proper patient selection and correct trajectory.
Mineralization of Dentinal Lesions with different Concentrations of Fluoride Mineralization of Dentinal Lesions with Fluoride
Authors: Al-Asmar Ayah Abdulla
Published: October 2022

Background
The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between fluoride concentration and mineral distribution within the dentinal lesion body.
Materials and Methods
Remineralization of artificial deep dentinal lesions with various levels of fluoride was studied using scanning electron microscope, microhardness tests and polarized light microscope. Human molars were exposed to demineralization at pH 5.0 for two weeks. Then they were divided into different groups for remineralization with different fluoride concentrations (0.1–10.0 ppm) for 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks.
Results
The results indicated a proportional relationship between fluoride concentration and dentinal lesion remineralization from 0.1–10.0 ppm. In the present study the formation of a well-remineralized surface layer inhibited remineralization at the lesion front. On the other hand the lesion front remineralization was found to be independent from fluoride concentration.
Conclusions
Our results stated that for effective remineralization of dentinal lesions to the innermost part, fluoride levels from 1.0–5.0 ppm have the highest efficiency.
Association of Blood Mercury Levels with Bone Mineral Density in Adolescents Aged 12–19
Authors: Xu Ke , Gao Bingqian , Liu Tingfeng , Li Jiayi , Xiang Yixin , Fu Yicheng , Zhao Mingyi
Published: October 2022

Adolescence is a critical period of rapid bone mass growth, and achieving higher bone mineral density (BMD) during this period can help prevent osteoporosis. The effects of metallic mercury on bone health remain unclear and controversial. Numerous studies have focused on perimenopausal women and older adults, and the association of blood mercury with bone mineral density in adolescents has not been discussed. This study aimed to collect data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2018 to explore the association of blood mercury levels with bone mineral density in adolescents. Based on the results of statistical analyses of 2818 participants, we found that blood mercury levels were negatively associated with bone mineral density in adolescents, although not significantly. Additionally, the trend in bone mineral density with changes in blood mercury was different in male and female adolescents. We also found an inverted U-shaped association between blood mercury and bone mineral density in male and Mexican American adolescents. This suggests that increased blood mercury levels within a range may be beneficial for bone health in male adolescents (inflection point: 5.44 nmol/L) and Mexican-American adolescents (inflection point: 5.49 nmol/L), while higher blood mercury levels may be detrimental to bone health. Due to the design of this study, more prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Experimental investigation of the influence of different nozzle exit geometries in fused layer modeling
Authors: Krampe Michael , Walter Fabian
Published: October 2022

To solve the trade-off between build time and level of detail in fused layer modeling (FLM), there are concepts of variable adjustable nozzles that have non-circular exit geometries by design. However, in this context it is unclear whether the shape of the nozzle exit can affect the FLM process. The aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of different exit geometries of the nozzle in the FLM process. In order to determine the effects of nozzle shapes, an experimental investigation was carried out. Individual strands were deposited with different nozzle shapes, whose shape was subsequently determined by laser scanning and microscopic images of the strand cross-sections. In addition, the orientation in relation to the deposition direction and five different layer heights were investigated. Circular, triangular, square, and hexagonal nozzles with cross-sectional areas equivalent to a circle of 1 mm, 0.8 mm and 0.6 mm diameter were prepared for these tests. Afterwards, the strand shapes were compared with each other using the created profiles and strand cross-sections.The results show that different geometries of the nozzle exit lead to different shapes of strand cross sections. It can be observed that the deviation from the cross section of the circular nozzle decreases with an increase in the number of corners of the nozzle geometry. Furthermore, the extent of the deviation increases with increasing layer height. In addition to the outlet shape, a different orientation of the same nozzle leads to a deviating strand cross-section.
Clinical, behavioral and psychosocial factors and dental visits by preschool children
Authors: Almeida Fernanda Vieira , Pauli Laís Anschau , Azevedo Marina Sousa , Costa Vanessa Polina Pereira da , Maroneze Marília Cunha , Goettems Marília Leão
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the frequency of preschool children that have had a dental visit and to identify factors associated.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: Children aged two to five years, enrolled in preschools were included (n=200). Parents/guardians answered a questionnaire and oral exams were performed using the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST). The outcome was having consulted a dentist in one’s lifetime and Andersen’s behavioral model was adopted to assess independent variables associated, including predisposing factors (sex, age, maternal education), enabling factors (family income), need factors (dental caries severity, dental pain, oral health-related quality of life and oral hygiene habits), and psychosocial factors (dental fear) were evaluated. Associations were tested with Poisson regression, obtaining the prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).
RESULTS: Most of the children had never visited a dentist (71%; n=141), 15% (30) visited for prevention and 14% (29) visited due to oral health problems. Predisposing and enabling factors were not associated with having visited a dentist. Need factors, including severe dental caries (PR=3.11;95% CI=1.85-5.20), dental pain (PR=2.04;95% CI=1.32-2.17), toothbrush performed by parents (PR=1.99; 95% CI=1.05-3.77) and presence of impact on OHRQoL (PR=1.87; 95%CI=1.21-2.89), and absence of dental fear (psychosocial factor) were also associated with dental service use (PR=2.28; 95% CI=1.45-3.59).
CONCLUSIONS: Most preschool children had never visited a dentist. Need and psychosocial factors were associated with dental services use. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Most of the preschool children have never visited a dentist and the presence of signs and symptoms and the perception of dental problems influenced search for dental treatment.
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) patients' self-perception of periodontal diseases
Authors: Abidin Zaridah Zainal , Noor Erni , Nor Noor Shafina Mohd , Nazari Nor Shafina Mohamed , Zaini Azriyanti Anuar , Azizi Nurul Zeety , Soelar Shahrul Aiman , Shahrizad Marshah mohamad , Halim Rohaida Abdul
Published: October 2022

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate type 1 DM (T1DM) patients’ self-perceived periodontal health status and to identify the association between PD and DM.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 113 T1DM children between 3 and 18 years old from the Universiti Teknologi MARA and the University of Malaya. Periodontal health parameters, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), basic periodontal examination (BPE), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were recorded. Self-perceived periodontal health status was assessed with questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the sensitivity of the questionnaire and the relationship between T1DM and periodontal parameters.
Results: The median age was 11.4 years. Half of them (50.4%) were females. 83.5% rated their oral condition as good, while 27.5% reported a history of gingival bleeding. Clinical examination revealed that 48.7% had healthy gingiva, whereas 47.8% had gingivitis. The question “Do you have bleeding when brushing, flossing, or eating food?” showed good accuracy in the evaluation of PD (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The questionnaire has a high potential to be used by medical professionals in identifying T1DM patients at risk of PD to guide non-dental healthcare providers in making appropriate referrals to dental services.
Clinical Relevance: Early detection and timely referral of PD under coordinated medical-dental care can enhance patients’ dental care and quality of life.
Suitability of the 1D Assumption for Ground Response Analysis in the Epicentral Area of the 2016 Mw 6.0 Amatrice Earthquake (Central Italy)
Authors: Giulio Giuseppe Di , Salomon Hailemikael , Chiara Felicetta , Claudia Mascandola , Francesca Pacor , Daniele Spallarossa
Published: October 2022

The 2016–2017 Central Italy seismic sequence was recorded by the 3A network deployed in the epicentral area and composed of 50 seismic stations. Taking advantage of microzonation activities, we retrieved site information for a subset of these stations, including shear-wave velocity profiles from down-hole tests down to a minimum depth of 30 m. In this paper, we compared the theoretical 1D transfer functions, computed from site information with the STRATA code under the linear-elastic assumption, to the empirical amplification functions derived by weak-motions spectral ratios, using either a reference site (SSR) or horizontal-to-vertical ratios (EHV). The poor match between empirical and theoretical amplification functions suggests that the 1D assumption may not hold for most sites. To support this observation, we applied different classification strategies to discriminate those sites that can be interpreted as having a 1D site response.
Multiband Polarization-Insensitive Cartwheel Metamaterial Absorber
Authors: Majeed Khalid , Niazi Shahab , Altintas Olcay , Baqir Muhammad Abuzar , Karaaslan Muharrem , Hasar Ugur Cem
Published: October 2022

Metamaterials are specifically engineered to produce electromagnetic properties that are not available in natural materials. Multiband metamaterial (MM) absorbers achieve great research interest due to their applications in sensing, filtering, and stealth. These absorbers are mostly made of multilayered and complex geometrical structures. In this work, a single layered cartwheel shaped (CWS), polarization-insensitive MM absorber operating in the microwave band is proposed. It shows a good angular stability, and multiple absorption peaks are attained due to multiple electric and magnetic resonances. Moreover, absorption characteristics can be tuned by modifying the substrate thickness. The comparison of simulated results and measured results show good agreement with each other. This absorber would be useful for sensing and filtering applications in microwave devices.
Stat3 is a mediator for TGFβ1 regulating bromodomain protein 4 and cross-talks with Smad3 signaling and Egr-1 in hepatic stellate cell
Authors: Xu Feifan , Lu Sidan , Zhao Feifan , Pan Nachuan , Jia Xin , zhou yajun
Published: October 2022

Background
Bromodomain protein 4 (BrD4), an epigenetic reader, functions as a global genomic regulator to direct hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and liver fibrogenesis. Our recent researches demonstrated the effect of TGFβ1, a pivotal pro-fibrotic cytokine, on BrD4 expression through Smad3/Egr1 axis in HSCs. Stat3 is widely acknowledged as a regulator of gene transcription and involved in fibrosis of many tissues. The present study was focused on the roles of Stat3, a non-canonical signaling of TGFβ1, in TGFβ1 regulating BrD4 in HSCs and examined the relationship among Stat3 signaling, Smad3 signaling, and Egr1.
Methods
Heterogeneous TGFβ1 knockout mice and thioacetamide-induced liver injury were employed. Adeno-associated virus encoding shRNA were for knockdown of gene expression in vivo. Mouse HSCs were used in vitro.
Results
Stat3 mediated TGFβ1-induced BrD4 expression in vitro and in vivo. BrD4 knockdown lessened Stat3- induced HSC activation and liver fibrosis. TGFβ1-induced Smad3 pathway activated Stat3 signaling which at least promoted Egr1 binding to BrD4 promoter for BrD4 expression. Egr1 knockdown significantly reduced the effect of Stat3 signaling on BrD4 expression and Egr1 had a positive feedback on Stat3 activation in HSCs. Moreover, an increase in BrD4 expression paralleled to Stat3 activation in activated HSCs in human cirrhotic livers. Thus, a network consisting of Stat3 signaling, Smad3 signaling, Egr1, and BrD4 emerged, which contributed to the effects of TGFβ1 on HSC activation and liver fibrosis.
Conclusions
Stat3 was another mediator for TGFβ1 regulating BrD4 and cross-talked with Smad3 and Egr-1. This report broadened the understanding of the roles of TGFβ1 in liver fibrogenesis.
Gradient Phosphatized Interphase for Ultra-Stable and Low-Temperature Zinc Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen Shan , Liao Xuelong , Huang Rong , Chen Jialei , Wang Yaxin , Wang Fei , Wang Huan
Published: October 2022

In situ formation of a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on zinc (Zn) surface is an effective solution to suppress dendrite growth. However, the fast transport of bivalent Zn-ions within the solid interlayer remains very challenging. Herein, we engineer the SEI components and enable a superior kinetic of Zn metal under harsh conditions. Trimethyl phosphate was employed as a cosolvent, which decreases the freezing point of water and spontaneously generate a gradient ZnF2–Zn3(PO4)2 interphase. Mechanistic studies reveal the outer ZnF2 facilitates Zn2+ desolvation and inner Zn3(PO4)2 serves as channels for Zn2+ transport, contributing to long-term cycling at subzero temperatures. Impressively, the gradient SEI enables a record lifespan of symmetric Zn cells over 6000 hours (~ 8 months) at − 50 oC. Furthermore, the Zn–KVOH full cell achieves a superhigh areal capacity (9.42 mAh cm− 2) under a practical cycling condition (high cathode loading: 33.75 mg cm− 2; lean electrolyte: 6.76 µL mAh− 1), and delivers a capacity retention of 86.1% after 12000 cycles at − 50 oC. This work provides a feasible route for low-temperature aqueous Zn metal batteries.
Experience of Nurses in the Prevention of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Among Critically Ill Patients at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Zenas Joan , Mwakawanga Dorkasi , Ndomondo Mathew D. , Ndile Menti L.
Published: October 2022

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is one of the most common nosocomial infections that occur more than 48 hours after intubation and initiation of mechanical ventilation. It is associated with morbidity and mortality, increased health costs, and prolonged hospital stays. The estimated incidence of VAP globally is about 5-40% whereby in low and middle-income countries is about 47.9 per 1000 ventilator days. The prevention of VAP requires the successful implementation of VAP prevention strategies. However, there is limited literature about VAP prevention in hospitals in Tanzania. Therefore this study aimed to explore nurses’ experience in the prevention of VAP at a tertiary hospital in Tanzania.
Methods: An exploratory descriptive study design was conducted with 15 nurses who were purposefully recruited from medical and surgical ICUs. A semi-structured interview guide consisting of main questions and probes was used to collect data. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using an inductive thematic analytical approach.
Results and conclusion: Four main themes emerged; nurses’ roles in the prevention of VAP, nurses’ challenges toward care provision, nurses’ competency in implementing VAP prevention strategies, and enablers toward the implementation of VAP. The revealed prevention strategies were suctioning, early weaning, head of bed elevation of 30-45°, oral care, administration of medication, and implementation of IPC measures. The study has also revealed important barriers such are inadequate equipment, lack of VAP prevention protocols, shortage of staff, and inadequate knowledge. However, the major facilitators were responsible leadership, a quality control team, availability of IPC guidelines, and individual motivation. Therefore, we recommend that nurses update their knowledge on the prevention of VAP. Moreover, the hospital management should initiate training, prepare protocols and ensure a constant supply of equipment.
Socioeconomic Inequality in Awareness, Treatment and Control of Diabetes Among Adults in India: Evidence from National Family Health Survey of India (NFHS), 2019-2021
Authors: Maiti Suraj , Akhtar Shamrin , Upadhyay Ashish Kumar , Mohanty Sanjay K
Published: October 2022

Diabetes is a growing epidemic and a major threat to most of the households in India. There is little evidence on awareness, treatment, and control (ATC) among adults in India is limited. We estimate the prevalence and ATC of diabetes among adults across various sociodemographic groups and states of India. We used 2,078,315 individuals aged 15 years and over from the recent fifth round of National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), 2019-21, that was carried out across all states of India. Diabetes individuals were identified as those who had random blood glucose above 140 mg/dL or taking diabetes medication or doctor diagnosed diabetes. Individuals who were measured as diabetic and (i) reported diagnosis were labelled as aware, (ii) reported taking medication for controlling blood glucose levels as treated and (iii) had measured blood glucose levels < 140 mg/dL as controlled. The estimates of diabetes prevalence, and ATC were age-sex adjusted, and disaggregated by household wealth quintile, education, age, sex, urban-rural, caste, religion, marital status, household size and state. Concentration indices was used to quantify socioeconomic inequalities and multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted differences in these outcomes. We estimated diabetes prevalence at 16.1% (15.9–16.1%). Among those with diabetes, 27.5% (27.1–27.9%) were aware, 21.5% (21.1–21.7%) were treated and 7% (6.8–7.1%) were under control. Across states of India, adjusted rates of ATC varied from 14.4% (12.1–16.8%) to 54.4% (40.3–68.4%), from 9.3% (7.5–11.1%) to 41.2% (39.9–42.6%), and from 2.7% (1.6–3.7%) to 11.9% (9.7–14.0%), respectively. Age–sex adjusted rates were lower (p < 0.001) in poorer, less educated, and social backward groups, as well as for male and residents of rural areas. Among individuals with diabetes, the richest fifth were 12.4 percentage points (pp) (11.3–13.4; p < 0.001), 10.5 pp (9.7–11.4; p < 0.001), and 2.3 pp (1.6-3.0; p < 0.001) more likely to be aware, getting treated, and having control, respectively, than the poorest fifth. The concentration index of ATC was 0.089 (0.085–0.092), 0.083 (0.079–0.085) and 0.017 (0.015–0.018) respectively. Overall, the ATC of diabetes is low in India. The ATC was much lower among adults belonging to poorer class and were less educated. Targeted intervention and management can reduce the diabetes burden in India.
Safety and status report of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with Wilson's disease.
Authors: Han Hui , Zhao Dan , Fang Xinru , Yang Wenming , Wang Mengli , Liu Qianzhuo , Wang Luyao , Ji Zhihui , Zhang Juan , Hou Zhifeng , Hua Lei , Wang Yu , Wu Limin
Published: October 2022

Objective
To examine the risk of exacerbation after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with Wilson's disease.
Methods
Collect the participants' characteristics and the current status of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. To compare the vaccination rates of Wilson's disease patients in different regions of China. To analyze the subjective reasons of patients who are not vaccinated. Differences in Unified Wilson's Disease Rating Scale (UWDRS) scores between vaccinated and unvaccinated patients were analyzed using independent samples t-tests. Paired samples t-tests were used to analyze whether there were differences in UWDRS scores before and after vaccination in vaccinated patients. The risk of increased UWDRS scores was evaluated using logistic regression.
Results
Among the 554 patients with Wilson's disease included in the study, the mean age was 25 years. 368 (66.4%) received at least one dose of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. 186 (33.6%) were not vaccinated. Patients with Wilson's disease chose not to receive the vaccine mainly because of the advice of the medical center (n = 83,44.6%), fear of worsening Wilson's disease symptoms (n = 63, 33.9%), and doubts about the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine (n = 40, 21.5%). There were no significant differences in UWDRS scores between vaccinated and unvaccinated patients (P > 0.05). There were also no differences in UWDRS scores before and after vaccination (P > 0.05). Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 was not significantly associated with increased scores of UWDRS (OR = 0.924, 95% CI: 0.336–2.540, P = 0.879), hepatic subscale (OR = 0.170, 95% CI: 0.148–3.027, P = 0.603), neurological subscale (OR = 1.322, 95% CI: 0.219–7.984, P = 0.761), and psychiatric subscale (OR = 1.011, 95% CI: 0.183–5.571, P = 0.990).
Conclusion
SARS-CoV-2 vaccination was not significantly associated with aggravated liver, neurological, or mental damage in patients, which provides a basis for the safety of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. It also provides a reference for patients with other heavy metal metabolism disorders, nervous system damage, and other similar diseases to be vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2.
Optimal Use of Advanced Practice Providers at an Academic Medical Center: A First Year Retrospective Review
Authors: Kidd Vasco Deon , Amin Alpesh , Bhatia Nitin N , Healey Denise C , Fisher Courtney , Rafiq Mojgan , Gallegos Mary Jo Angelica E. , Munoz Kathrina M
Published: October 2022

Background
Physician Assistants/Associates (PAs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) together known as advanced practice providers (APPs) practice with a high degree of clinical autonomy and professional respect, and play a critical role in team-based care. Aligning APP care delivery models to promote top-of-license practice is essential to improving ambulatory capacity and bottom-line expectations at Academic Medical Centers (AMCs) in the 21st century and beyond. This administrative quality improvement study assesses the downstream impact of restructuring our APP care models to promote independent practice sessions.
Methods
Our AMC formed an APP oversight committee in April 2021 to optimize the ambulatory care model, realign APP funds flow, and set performance standards to which PAs and NPs are being held accountable. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNAs) were excluded from this analysis.
Results
APP productivity year-over-year (YOY) aggregate data across all School of Medicine (SOM) departments, demonstrated a 53% increase in work relative value units (wRVUs), 83% increase in payments, and 79% increase in charges from the prior fiscal year (July to June). Regarding APP ambulatory clinical effort, there was a 45% increase in the number of APP completed visits (90% return patient visits, 10% new visits). An increase in APP productivity (YOY) did not adversely impact patient satisfaction, physician compensation, or delay programmatic expansion efforts. Lastly, in a recent engagement survey, the majority of PA and NP respondents (78%) reported working either “most of the time” or “always” at the top-of- license.
Conclusion
This quality improvement study demonstrates that enhancement of PA and NP utilization through top-of-license initiatives can be achieved without jeopardizing physician compensation or performance. While we acknowledge, there are differences between healthcare institutions in terms of care delivery and compensation models, organizational culture, and distribution of clinical resources, there remains an opportunity among hospitals and health systems to optimize this critical and essential APP workforce.
Evaluation of Multi-target Drugs on the Cocaine-induced Locomotor Sensitization in Rats
Authors: Barbosa-Mendez Susana , Salazar-Juarez Alberto
Published: October 2022

Purpose — Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is a complex disease. Some suggest that multi-target drugs could be useful in the treatment of cocaine use disorder. Several studies have shown the efficacy of various multi-target-target drugs used in clinical studies to treat CUD; which integrate into their pharmacological profile the simultaneous NE or 5-HT receptors antagonism or agonism. However, the results of these studies have not shown results consistently. Thus, this study aimed to compare the efficacy of various multi-target drugs on cocaine-induced behavioral effects in rats.
Methods — Male Wistar rats received cocaine (10 mg/Kg; i.p.) during the induction and expression of locomotor sensitization. The MIR, PIN, FLX, RIS, TRZ, ZRP, OND, YOH, or PRZ were administered 30 minutes before cocaine. After each treatment, the locomotor activity was recorded for 30 minutes. In experiments 5 and 6, the animals were sacrificed after treatment administration. Dopamine levels were determined in the ventral striatum, the prefrontal cortex (PFc), and the ventral tegmental area (VTA) by high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) in animals treated with mirtazapine and cocaine. The quantification of c-fos immunoreactive cells was carried out by stereology analysis.
Results — In this study, we found mirtazapine generated a decrease in cocaine-induced locomotor activity of greater magnitude and duration compared to the other drugs evaluated. Also, at the optimal doses used the PIN, FLX, RIS, TRZ, ZRP, OND, YOH, or PRZfailed to attenuate long-term cocaine locomotor activation. In addition, mirtazapine decreased in the striatum, prefrontal cortex (PFc), and ventral-tegmental area (VTA) the amount of cocaine-induced extracellular dopamine and the number of cells immunoreactive to the Fos protein.
Conclusion — At the optimal doses of drugs evaluated, mirtazapine was the multi-target drug that showed the greatest long-term effects on cocaine-induced behavioral effects compared to other multi-target drugs.
Petrophysical and Textural Parameters of Calcarenitic Rocks in World Heritage Sites in Alexandria, Egypt
Authors: Hemeda Sayed
Published: October 2022

The underground Greek and Roman monuments at Alexandria are all excavated in the plioquaternary calcarenite that constitutes the basement of the whole region. A few kilometers to the north of the city, quarries still provide this ornamental rock widely used by stone craftsmen. It is characterized by variable and high porosity (18–47%) and thus an elevated permeability, and generally bad geotechnical quality. Its chemical composition is very rich in calcium carbonates and its rough surface allows a high receptivity to the atmospheric gaseous pollutants and to hydrous marine sprays and sea water charged with various salts. The main purpose of this study is to understand influences of bulk structure of materials on water storage and transfer in order to assess durability and weathering. By analysis of linear correlations, some essential mechanisms should be underlined, which may connect the macrostructure to the microstructure of the material. A systematic method of analysis should clearly appear and emphasize the role of the structure (grain size, grain contact and pore shape) on physical and mechanical behavior. The main parameters leading to weathering should then be identified and models of correlations drawn. Correlations between the various physico-mechanical properties could ameliorate the possibilities to assess durability and weathering in the natural environment. Study of these sediments provides information about the origin, texture, distribution and composition which is used in the description of physiochemical and physio-mechanical properties. The contolloing factors in the physiochemical and physiomechanical properties of the Calcarenitic rocks are primarly composition, environment of deposition, microstructure characters, and physical properties.
On the parametrizations for the dissipation rate of the mean turbulence kinetic energy in stable conditions
Authors: Schiavon Mario , Barbano Francesco , Brogno Luigi , Leo Laura Sandra , Tampieri Francesco , Sabatino Silvana Di
Published: October 2022

Observations acquired in the stable surface layer during two field experiments (The The Mountain Terrain Atmospheric Modeling and Observations Program and the Climate Change Tower Integrated Project) are considered to test different parametrizations of the dissipation rate of mean turbulence kinetic energy (TKE). Particular attention is dedicated to the effect of the submeso motions on these parametrizations. The analysis shows that TKE-based formulations are particularly prone to the submeso effect, whilst better results are obtained if the vertical velocity variance is considered. In the latter case, stability must be taken into account explicitly in Mellor-Yamada type parametrizations but not in shear-based formulations.
Radiation caries impacts morbidity and mortality outcomes in head and neck cancer survivors
Authors: Palmier Natália Rangel , Prado-Ribeiro Ana Carolina , Mariz Bruno Augusto , Rodrigues-Oliveira Letícia , Paglioni Mariana Pauli , Napimonga Juliana Trindade , Pedroso Caique Mariano , Morais-Faria Karina , Oliveira Maria Cecília Querido , Filho Aljomar José Vechiato , Brandão Thaís Bianca , Santos-Silva Alan Roger
Published: October 2022

Purpose: Radiation caries (RC) is a highly prevalent chronic complication of head and neck radiotherapy (HNRT) and a challenge for clinicians and patients. The present study aimed to assess the impact of RC on the morbidity and mortality outcomes of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients.
Methods: Patients were divided into 3 groups: RC (n=20), control (n=20) and edentulous (n=20). Information regarding the number of appointments, dental procedures, osteoradionecrosis (ORN), prescriptions, and hospital admissions werecollected. Mortality outcomes were assessed through disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates.
Results: RC patients required more dental appointments (p<0.001), restorations (p<0.001), extractions (p=0.001), and antibiotic and analgesic prescriptions (p<0.001). Kaplan–Meier subgroup analyses showed a significantly impaired risk of ORN in RC compared to edentulous patients (p=0.015). RC presented lower DFS rates (46.5 months) than the control and edentulous groups (53.5 and 52.8 months, respectively).
Conclusion: RC impacts morbidity outcomes for cancer survivors due to increased demand for medication prescriptions, multiple specialized dental appointments, invasive surgical treatments, risk of ORN, and hospital admissions.
Disease characteristics of 70 patients with Kimura disease
Authors: Zhang Wenhui , Zhai Yaling , Tian Huijuan , Sun Shuaigang
Published: October 2022

Objective
To analyze the disease characteristics of patients with Kimura disease (KD) and provide reference for clinical practice.
Methods
Laboratory data of 70 patients with KD diagnosed based on pathology at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from August 2012 to December 2021 were collected. Clinical manifestations, renal involvement, treatments, and risk factors for recurrence were analyzed.
Results
Among the 70 patients, 61 were male and 9 were female; 61.4% of patients (43/70) had focal masses only in the head and neck region and 30.0% (21/70) had masses not restricted to the head and neck; 52.9% (37/70) had pruritus. The proportion of eosinophils in peripheral blood was elevated in 80.0% of patients (56/70), and the level of serum immunoglobulin (Ig)E was increased in 96% (24/25). Renal damage was a complication in 21.8% of patients (12/55). Serum albumin and total protein levels were significantly lower in patients with as compared to those without renal impairment. Of the 70 patients, 37 had disease recurrence following treatment (surgical resection, oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, radiotherapy, or combinations thereof). Risk factors for KD recurrence were percentage of eosinophils in peripheral blood ≥ 20%, maximum diameter of masses ≥ 3 cm, and masses at multiple sites (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
KD is a systemic disease involving multiple organs, especially the kidney. A better understanding of disease pathogenesis can lead to the development of effective treatments that improve the prognosis of patients.
Impact of COVID-19 on medical students` performance in surgical OSCE examination in a German University Hospital: a retrospective analysis before, during and after pandemic
Authors: Manzini Giulia , Denzinger Maximilian , Kornmann Marko , Hines Ian N. , Kremer Michael
Published: October 2022

Background
COVID-19 had a significant impact on medical education. Aim of this work is to assess if the pandemic has influenced medical student performance on the surgical Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
Methods
Student performance at a German University Hospital during surgical OSCE (before, during, and after pandemic) were compared. 3 OSCE stations were considered: visceral surgical cases with clinical abdominal examination, suturing and description of visceral surgical operation techniques. Student`s marks were compared among the three groups above using the Student t-test for independent samples.
Results
423 students took part in one of the three OSCE. Performance in solving clinical cases and performing an abdominal examination was better before pandemic than during pandemic (p = 0,04) as well as after pandemic than during pandemic (p = 0.02). Suturing was better during pandemic than before (p < 0.001) as well as after pandemic (p < 0.001). Performance in surgical technique was not different among the groups.
Conclusions
Cessation of the practical internship reduced student performance on clinical case and abdominal examination section but not on suturing or surgical technique sections. These data suggest that alternative approaches to instruction including online education may be sufficient for some but not all aspects of the surgical internship.
An On-site-based Opportunistic Routing Protocol for Scalable and Energy-Efficient Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhu Rongxin , Yang Qiuling
Published: October 2022

With the advancements of wireless sensor networks and the Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT), underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs) have attracted much attention, which also has been widely used in marine engineering exploration and disaster prevention. However, UASNs still face many challenges, including high propagation latency, limited bandwidth, and energy consumption, influencing the reliability of data transmission. In this paper, we propose a routing protocol based on the on-site architecture (SROA) for UASNs to improve network scalability, energy efficiency, and transmission reliability. The on-site architecture adopted by SROA is different from the most architectures in that the data center is deployed underwater which makes the sink nodes closer to the data source. The SROA is a cluster-based protocol which adapts to the changes of network scale and avoids single-point failure through the decentralized and distributed sensor networks. To seek optimal routing policies, the factors of energy, delay, and link quality are considered jointly in the reward function of Q-Learning. Moreover, the reduction of packet retransmissions and collisions is advocated using a waiting mechanism developed from opportunistic routing (OR). The SROA realizes opportunistic routing to choose candidate nodes and coordinate packet forwarding among candidate nodes. Scalability of the proposed routing protocols is also analyzed by varying the network size and transmission range. According to the evaluation results, with the network scale ranging from 100 to 500, the SROA outperforms the existing routing protocols, extensively increasing packet delivery ratio and decreasing end-to-end delay.
Fabrication of highly crystalline covalent organic framework for solid-phase extraction of three dyes from food and water samples
Authors: Wang Junji , Tao Yongqing , Wang Luchun , Tian Meng , Yang Yulian , Liu Qiuyi , Zou Yuemeng , Liu Shaochi , Niu Hong , Wang Dandan , Gao Die
Published: October 2022

The harm caused by dye pollution in water or excessive dyes in food has seriously threatened human health, and thus the monitor and removal of the dyes in environmental water and food are of great significance. In present study, covalent organic framework (namely COF-TFTP), which was fabricated at room temperature by using 1,3,5-tris(p-formylphenyl) benzene and 1,3,5-tris(4-aminophenyl)benzene as building blocks, was employed as an adsrobent for solid-phase extraction (SPE) of dyes including congo red, methyl blue and direct red 80 for the first time. The physicochemical properties of COF-TFTP were investigated by using SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS and so on. The results revealed that COF-TFTP showed uniform spherical structure, high crystallinity, satisfactory surface area, and good thermal stability. The results of adsorption experiments indicated that COF-TFTP had good adsorption capacities for congo red, methyl blue and direct red 80 (284.10, 177.62 and 55.25 mg⋅g− 1) and the adsorption equilibrium can be achieved in a relatively short time (15 min). Further, to achieve the best adsorption effects of COF-TFTP, the influence parameters including pH, ionic strength, type of desorption solvent, the COF-TFTP dosage in SPE column, were optimized in turn. Finally, under the optimal SPE conditions, COF-TFTP based SPE was applied to the adsorption of congo red and methyl blue in food samples (e.g. pork and fish), to the adsorption of three dyes in water samples. The recoveries of dyes in environmental water samples (71.50-86.84%) and food samples (68.50-88.95%) were satisfactory, revealing the unique applicability of COF-TFTP in sample pretreatment field.
Assessment Of Bromochloroacetonitrile Formed As A Disinfection Byproduct in an HaCaT Cells
Authors: Fayadoglu Elif , Fayadoglu Mustafa , Koparal A Tansu , Koparal Ali Savas
Published: October 2022

Bromochloroacetonitrile is a disinfection byproduct of water chlorination. We investigated, the cytotoxic effects of bromochloroacetonitrile in human keratinocyte cells. Cells were exposed to 5–80 µM bromochloroacetonitrile for 24 and 48 h. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and Lactate Dehydrogenase Leakage assays was used to evaluate cytotoxic effects. The changes in cellular Reactive Oxygen Species was determined. In addition, the effect of bromochloroacetonitrile on wound healing in cell culture was investigated by the scratch test. Concentration and time-dependent cytotoxicity was observed. Increasing concentrations of bromochloroacetonitrile have been observed to induce reactive oxygen species assay production in human keratinocyte cells. It was determined that concentrations of 5, 10 and 20 µM of bromochloroacetonitrile did not have a negative effect on wound healing, but when toxic concentrations of 40, 60 and 80 µM were increased, it had a slowing effect on wound healing. In this study, the effects of bromochloroacetonitrile on human keratinocyte cells were evaluated for the first time in the literature.
Analysis of domain-specific function reveals significant plasticity in BCR-ABL signaling
Authors: Gregor Tomas , Bosakova Michaela , Nita Alexandru , Feketova Zuzana , Fafilek Bohumil , Czyrek Aleksandra , Mayer Jiri , Trantirek Lukas , Krejci Pavel
Published: October 2022

Discontinuation of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy leads to relapse in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), suggesting that TKIs do not completely eliminate cancer cells. Recently, we showed that TKIs inhibit catalytic activity of BCR-ABL, but do not dissolve the BCR-ABL core complex, consisting of signaling mediators SHC1, GRB2, SOS1, cCBL, SHIP2, p85a, STS1, and CRKL. Here, we examined the contribution of the BCR-ABL structural domains to downstream signaling. Individual deletion of the coiled-coil domain, ABL-binding domain, intrinsically disordered region, and SH3 and SH2 domains downregulated, but not eliminated the BCR-ABL-mediated phosphorylation of STAT1, STAT5, SHC1, SHIP2 and CRKL. Moreover, elimination of the BCR residue Y177 upregulated signaling via the RAS-ERK MAP kinase pathway, possibly through increased BCR-ABL interaction with the SHC1. We demonstrate that removal of individual BCR-ABL domains does not abolish downstream signaling, and may even increase activation of some pathways, such as RAS-ERK. Our data point to significant plasticity in the BCR-ABL signaling, and undermine targeting integrity of the BCR-ABL core complex as an approach to eliminate residual cancer cells in TKI-treated CML.
In vitro susceptibility of HIV isolates with high growth capability to antiretroviral drugs
Authors: H Alfredo Jr. A. , Kanai Kyosuke , Tsuneki-Tokunaga Akeno , Komatsu Mizuki , Telan Elizabeth O , Kageyama Seiji
Published: October 2022

It has been considered that reduced antiretroviral susceptibility can occur with drug-resistance mutations in the HIV genome. In the present study, we assessed the susceptibility of HIV isolates with high growth capability to antiretroviral drugs using an in vitro model. Phytohemagglutinin-activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (1.5×106 cells) were infected with HIV isolates (106 copies/mL). The culture was carried out at different concentrations (0.001–20 µM) of 13 synthetic antiretroviral compounds (six nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors, one non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, four integrase inhibitors, and two protease inhibitors), and HIV production was assessed using HIV-RNA copies in culture. The 90% inhibitory concentration (IC90) and pharmacokinetics of an antiretroviral agent were used as parameters to determine the reduced antiretroviral drug susceptibility of HIV isolates with high growth capability to synthetic antiretroviral compounds. The high growth capability of HIV isolates affected their susceptibility to tenofovir (IC90 = 2.05 ± 0.40 µM), lamivudine (IC90 = 6.83 ± 3.96 µM), emtricitabine (IC90 = 0.68 ± 0.37 µM), and efavirenz (IC90 = 3.65 ± 0.77 µM). These antiretroviral drugs showed IC90 values close to or above the Cmin-Cmax range against HIV isolates with a high growth capability without any drug resistance-related mutations. Our results may contribute to the development of effective antiretroviral therapy strategies to tailor and individualize ART in patients harboring HIV isolates with a high growth capability.
Lactate levels and CD3+ T cells indicate how well patients with sepsis would respond to treatment: a single-center retrospective analysis
Authors: Wang Xibo , Peng Yahui , Zhou Yang , Zhang Qianqian , Luo Yinghao , Li Nana , Li Yue , Luan Feiyu , Wei Jieling , Ji Yuanyuan , Mu Wenjing , Wang Jun , Wang Chunying , Yu Kaijiang , Zhao Mingyan , Wang Changsong
Published: October 2022

Background and aims Sepsis is one of the most common causes of death in intensive care units. Numerous studies have been performed on lymphocyte immunity in sepsis patients, but they seldom pay attention to whether lactate levels and T lymphocytes affect sepsis immunity. This study focused on how well lactate levels and CD3+ T cells will influence the outcome of sepsis patients.
Methods This is a single-center retrospective investigation. All of the participants satisfied the diagnostic standards for sepsis 3.0. We collected the results of the lymphocyte subset within 24 hours of admission to ICU as well as the first lactate levels and other medical indicators.Followed up the patients for 28 days, we separated the participants into survival and mortality groups and then we processed uni-variate and multivariate analyses.
Results A total of 132 sepsis patients who were older than 18 years old and met the diagnostic standards for sepsis 3.0 were included. Only 107 patients, including 53 in the survival group and 54 in the mortality group, were enrolled into statistical analysis. Based on uni-variate and multivariate analysis results, lactate levels and the quantity of CD3+ T cells were independent predictive markers that affected 28-day mortality in sepsis patients.
ConclusionInitial lactate levels at ICU admission may predict outcomes in sepsis patients, and CD3+ T-lymphocyte will influence how well a patient will respond to treatment. Patients with elevated lactate levels and overall lower CD3+ T-cell counts at ICU admission should receive greater care and powerful medication.
Trial registration：retrospectively registered
Detection of porcine cytomegalovirus, a roseolovirus, in pig ovaries and follicular fluid: Implications for somatic cells nuclear transfer, cloning and xenotransplantation
Authors: Hansen Sabrina , Fischer Konrad , Krabben Ludwig , Carrapeiro Alexander Rinke , Klinger Bernhard , Schnieke Angelika , Kaufer Benedikt , Denner Joachim
Published: October 2022

Background: Porcine cytomegalovirus (PCMV) is a porcine roseolovirus (PCMV/PRV) which is widely distributed in pigs. Transmission of PCMV/PRV in preclinical xenotransplantations was shown to significantly reduce the survival time of the pig transplants in non-human primates. PCMV/PRV was also transmitted in the first transplantation of a pig heart into a human patient. To analyze how PCMV/PRV could be introduced into pig breeds, especially considering cloned transgenic pigs, and subsequently spread in breeding facilities, we screened ovaries and derived materials which are used to perform somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
Methods: DNA was isolated from ovary tissues, follicular fluids, oocytes with cumulus cells, denuded oocytes and parthenotes. A real-time PCR with PCMV/PRV-specific primers and probes was performed to detect PCMV/PRV. Furthermore, a Western blot assay using a recombinant fragment of the gB protein of PCMV/PRV was performed to screen for virus-specific antibodies in the follicular fluids.
Results: PCMV/PRV was found by real-time PCR in ovary tissues, in the follicular fluid and in oocytes. In parthenotes the virus could not be detected, most-likely due to the low amount of DNA used. By Western blot assay specific antibodies against PCMV/PRV in 19 of 20 analyzed follicular fluids were found.
Conclusion: PCMV/PRV was found in ovary tissues, in the follicular fluids and also in denuded oocytes, indicating that the virus is present in the animals of which the oocytes were taken from. Despite several washing steps of the denuded oocytes, which are subsequently used for microinjection or SCNT, the virus could still be detected. Therefore, the virus could infect oocytes during genetic modifications or stay attached to the surface of the oocytes, potentially infecting SCNT recipient animals.