bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tibial Spine Height Measured by Radiograph is A Risk Factor for Non-Contact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Males: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Nie Shixin , Chen Jiaxing , Zhang Hua , Zhao Pei , Yan Wenlong , Huang Wei
Published: September 2022

Objectives: To determine the relationship between non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and tibial spine width or height and to verify whither the relationships vary from males to females.
Design: Retrospective case-control study, level of evidence III.
Methods: Ninety-six patients with non-contact primary ACL injuries and 96 patients with intact ACL were recruited in our institution from 2017 to 2019. The patients were divided into male and female subgroups. The tibial plateauwidth (TPW), medial and lateral tibial spine height(MTSH and LTSH, respectively), and tibial spine width (TSW) were measured by radiographs. The ratios of TSW/TPW, LTSH/TPW, and MTSH/TPW were used to normalize these length parameters. We compared these parameters between subgroups. Binary regression mode, receiver operating characteristic curves and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the contributions of the parameters to ACL injury.
Results: The median value of TSW/TPW was smaller in the study group than in the control group (15.2% vs. 17.3%, P<0.001). The ratio of LTSH/TPW was larger in ACL-injured patients (median, 12.0%) than in ACL-intact controls (median, 11.6%) (P=0.015). The LTSH/TPW (P=0.007) and MTSH/TPW(P=0.002) were larger in males (12.3% and 12.9%, respectively) than in females (11.6% and 11.9%, respectively) in the study group. In males, the LTSH/TPW had an AUC of 0.709 for ACL injury. The LTSH/TPW and MTSH/TPW revealed significant ORs of 1.73 (95% CI [1.29-2.33], P<0.001) and 1.53 (95% CI [1.16-2.03], P=0.003) for ACL injury in males, respectively.
Conclusions: When taking individual differences into account, the tibial spine height varies from male to female in patients with ACL injury and is a risk factor for ACL injury in males. The influence of the increased lateral tibial spine height in patients with ACL, male patients in particular, on the impingement between the grafts and lateral tibial spine warrants further investigation.
Myo1b promotes premature endothelial senescence and dysfunction via suppressing autophagy: implications for vascular aging
Authors: Yu Yi , Ren Yuanyuan , Li Yang , Li Yirong , Zhang Yan , Gui Runlin , Cui Yue , Qian Lu , Xiong Yuyan
Published: September 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Topical tranexamic acid can be used safely even in high risk patients: deep vein thrombosis examination using routine ultrasonography of 510 patients
Authors: Joo Yong Bum , Kim Young Mo , An Byung Kuk , Lee Cheol Won , Kwon Soon Tae , Song Ju-Ho
Published: September 2022

Background: Previous studies regarding tranexamic acid (TXA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) investigated only symptomatic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or did not include high risk patients. The incidence of DVT including both symptomatic and asymptomatic complications after applying topical TXA has not been evaluated using ultrasonography.
Methods: Medical records of 510 patients who underwent primary unilateral TKA between July 2014 and December 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Because TXA was routinely applied through the topical route, those who had history of venous thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, or cerebral vascular occlusive disease were not excluded. Regardless of symptom manifestation, DVT was examined at 1 week postoperatively for all patients using ultrasonography, and postoperative transfusion rate was investigated. The study population was divided according to the use of topical TXA. After the two groups were matched based on the propensity scores, the incidence of DVT and the transfusion rate were compared between the groups.
Results: Of the 510 patients comprising 298 patients in the TXA group and 212 patients in the control group, DVT was noted in 22 (4.3%) patients. Two patients had DVT proximal to the popliteal vein. After propensity score matching (PSM), 168 patients were allocated to each group. 11 patients in the TXA group and 7 patients in the control group were diagnosed with DVT, which did not show a significant difference (p=0.721). However, the two groups differ significantly in the transfusion rate (p<0.001, 50.0% in the TXA group, 91.7% in the control group).
Conclusion: The incidence of DVT, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic, was not affected by the use of topical TXA. Postoperative transfusion rate was reduced in the TXA group. Topical TXA could be applied safely even in patients who had been known to be at high risk.
Identifying new psychoactive substances (NPS) using drug checking services: An innovative observational study design
Authors: Grifell Marc , Mir Guillem , Estelrich-Azubide Roger , Ventura Mireia , Galindo Liliana , Guilanyà Josep , Fornís Iván , Gil Cristina , Roldán Maria , Carbón Xoán , Barratt Monica J , Farré Magí , Colom Francesc , Pérez Víctor
Published: September 2022

Background
Despite the proliferation of new psychoactive substances (NPS) in recent years, there are many gaps in our understanding of the phenomena. Current methodologies still fail to provide timely and scientifically reliable knowledge between controlled trials and online data reports that lack analytical confirmation of the reported substances. This study tests a new online, collaborative, observational methodology for tracking the emergence of NPS. It involves conducting laboratory analysis of community-submitted NPS samples using a naturalistic approach.
Methods
Participants were recruited from online communities of people who claim to use NPS. They were asked to send and report on the substances they would have taken independently of the study participation. They received free drug-checking services for the samples sent during the data collection. Participants were also asked to complete multiple online questionnaires to provide information about the analysed NPS samples. Comprehensive literature reviews of the analysed samples were conducted to assess the importance of the results.
Results
Participants sent 136 sample submission questionnaires. Ninety-two were followed by the laboratory analysis of a submitted NPS sample. Only 54 of those analysed NPS samples completed all the study protocols. Forty different NPS were identified in the laboratory analysis. Of those, 13 substances had no previous reports in the scientific literature as new psychoactive substances. Another 12 substances had no available peer-reviewed data regarding their subjective effects. Only one opioid and no synthetic cannabinoids were detected.
Conclusions
The confirmed identification of 13 previously unreported NPS demonstrates the capacity of the current methodology to identify potentially emerging NPS. Despite the vast diversity of substances submitted, the most common NPS types (e.g., cannabinoids and opioids) were not found. Altogether, these results warrant further research to consolidate the favourable impact of monitoring the NPS market using this innovative methodology.
Illustration of a Methodology to Characterize Some Preference Uncertainties in Multicriteria Decision Analysis
Authors: Thiessen Ron J. , Achari Gopal
Published: September 2022

Any multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) method should make sense to its users and be practical in helping make decisions. Using selected civil and environmental engineering examples in life cycle sustainability assessment and in prioritizing environmental assessment and remediation, the presented methodology strives to meet this objective by emphasizing the importance of visualizing some of the preference uncertainties associated with choice and ranking decision analyses. The emphasis on visualization should compel stakeholders to discuss MCDA results and deliberate conclusions, which is a need in any MCDA practice. The methodology employs simple yet well-founded equations derived from partial-order theory for uncertainty visualization. These equations can be easily programmed using a spreadsheet software or used via a publicly available software highlighted in the article. In addition to its simplicity, the methodology avoids the requirement to quantify stakeholder preferences or to aggregate attribute scores in all situations. As shown through the examples, reasonable decisions can often be made by visualizing the information as it is.
Reducing Impact of Wind on Tall Buildings Through Aero-dynamic Shape Modifications
Authors: GHOTE TILAKCHAND , Wankhade L R
Published: September 2022

Instead than being driven by aerodynamic concerns, new generations of tall structures are becoming taller, more flexible, and slimmer due to architectural factors, functional requirements, and site constraints. Tall buildings are hence more vulnerable to lateral loads like wind. Aerodynamic form adjustment can considerably lessen these effects. In terms of fluid dynamics, drag force describes how a solid object behaves in the direction of the relative wind flow velocity. This investigation involves drag coefficient of aerodynamically shape modified buildings with combinations such as setback with void(S + V), corner cut with void(CC + V), setback with corner cut(S + CC) comparatively with square, setback and corner cut. The model is generated using SOLIDWORKS software and further analyse in the ANSYS FLUENT 19.2.) The velocity and pressure contours for these model has been studied along with drag and lift coefficient.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Antibiotic Use and Resistance among Health Science and Non-Health Science University Students in Thailand
Authors: Precha Nopadol , Sukmai Suphachai , Hengbaru Muhammadsarif , Chekoh Muhammadkaddfee , Laohaprapanon Sawanya , Makkaew Prasert , Dom Nazri Che
Published: September 2022

Background
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) have been recognized as one of the global health issues affecting humans, animals, and the environment. A lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and irrational drug use can make significant contributions to the spread of ARB. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use and resistance among health science (HS) and non-health science (NHS) students and to determine the factors that influence their KAP concerning antibiotic use and resistance.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 404 HS and NHS students in Southern Thailand from December 2021 to March 2022. The students who fulfilled the study inclusion criteria responded to a questionnaire that had five dimensions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the qualitative variables, and Fisher’s exact test was applied to compare the demographic variables between the HS and NHS students. Chi-squared tests were used to compare the percentages of each KAP question between the HS and NHS students. The KAP regarding antibiotic use and resistance for each variable were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis H test. Spearman’s correlation test was used to estimate the correlation between the variables and KAP.
Results
A total of 404 (HS,162; NHS,242) students completed the self-administered questionnaire. The students’ highest score was for attitude, followed by practice and knowledge. Our findings revealed that the HS students had higher levels of KAP correlated with antibiotic use and resistance than the NHS students (P < 0.001). The higher KAP scores were among the more senior students, which indicates that instruction on antibiotics was effective in their curriculum.
Conclusions
Antibiotic use and resistance knowledge and attitudes should be conveyed to all university students via courses, seminars, or workshops. Such interventions could set the standard for rational antibiotic use as well as long-term prevention and control of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
The factors influencing wildlife to use of existing bridges and culverts in Giant Panda National Park
Authors: Lu Song , Yue Ying , Wang Yihong , Zhang Dawei , Yang Biao , Yu Zhen , Lin Honghui , Dai Qiang
Published: September 2022

Roads, acting as barriers, hamper wildlife movements and disrupt habitat connectivity. Bridges and culverts are common structures on roads, and some of them can function to allow wildlife passage. This study investigated the effects of traffic, surrounding landscape, human disturbance, and bridge and culvert structures on the utilization of bridges and culverts as underpasses by wildlife, using motion-activated infrared camera traps along a 64 km road in Giant Panda National Park, Sichuan, China. The results found that both species richness and counts of wildlife recorded at the bridge and culvert were significantly lower than those observed at the control sites far away from roads. No large-sized wildlife was recorded at the bridges and culverts. Human activities and traffic volume significantly and negatively affected medium-sized wildlife utilization of bridges and culverts. Compared with medium-sized wildlife at control sites, those at bridges and culverts tended to be recorded at night, when traffic was spare. We conclude that functions as wildlife crossing structures served by bridges and culverts were worked but weak. It emphasized the necessity of retrofitting bridges and culverts by mitigation facilities such as noise and light barriers and vegetation restoration on both sides of the roads in Giant Panda National Park.
Laparoscopic-assisted pyloromyotomy for cases of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, a safer new technique
Authors: Khairi Ahmed , Louka Baher , Kamel Tarek , Elrouby Ahmed
Published: September 2022

Purpose
The main difficulty of laparoscopic pyloromyotomy (LP) is the method of spreading and deepening the incised pyloric mass. The aim of the work was the presentation of the surgical outcome of a new procedure of laparoscopic-assisted pyloromyotomy using a fine curved artery forceps for muscle spreading.
Methods
Our prospective study included 24 pediatric patients with IHPS. Under general anesthesia, the patient was positioned transversely on the operating table and the working instruments were inserted directly without ports through the umbilicus, right hypochondrium, and the epigastrium. The mass was grasped by the right instrument holding the duodenum and the pyloromyotomy knife was inserted through the epigastric incision and incised the pyloric mass transversely. The knife was then removed and a fine curved artery forceps was inserted to complete the pyloromyotomy.
Results
The age of the studied patients was 20–50 days (36.48 ± 8.98 days) and their body weight was 2500–3200 gm (2864 ± 271.11 gm). The operative duration was 15–25 minutes (19.08 ± 3.86 minutes). No intra-operative complications were encountered without any need for conversion to open pyloromyotomy in any case. All of the studied patients started oral feeding on the 1st to 2nd postoperative day and were discharged from the hospital on the same day. One patient had persistent postoperative vomiting, US revealed persistence of the mass, and a redo open pyloromyotomy was done.
Conclusion
The described technique is safe, making the control of pyloromyotomy more secure without the need for special instruments.
Evaluation of Lithium chloride effects as a GSK3-β inhibitor on human Adipose Derived Stem cells differentiation into oligodendrocytes and re-myelination in animal model of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ghosouri Sahar , Soleimani Mitra , Bakhtiari Mohammad , Ghasemi Nazem
Published: September 2022

The application of neuroprotective agents in combination with stem cells, is considered as a potential effective treatment for Multiple sclerosis (MS). So, the effects of lithium chloride as a neuroprotective agent and a GSK3-β inhibitor was evaluated in combination with human adipose derived stem cells on re-myelination, oligodendrocyte differentiation, as well as functional recovery. After inducing mouse model of MS and proving it through hanging wire test, the mice were randomly assigned to five experimental groups including: Cup, Sham, Li, hADSC, and Li + hADSC groups. In addition, a control group with normal feeding was considered. At the end, toluidine blue staining was done to estimate the level of myelination. Moreover, Immunofluorescent staining was used to evaluate the mean of OLIG2 and MOG positive cells. Also, the mRNA levels of β-Catenin, myelin and oligodendrocyte specific genes were determined via Real Time-PCR. The results of hanging wire test and toluidine blue staining showed a significant increase in myelin density and motor function improvement in groups which received lithium and stem cells, especially in Li + hADSC group compared to untreated groups (P < 0.01). In addition, immunostaining results indicated that the mean percentage of MOG and OLIG2 positive cells were significantly higher in Li + hADSC group in compared to other groups (P < 0.01). Finally, gene expression studies showed that the use of lithium can able to increase the expression of β-Catenin, myelin and oligodendrocyte specific genes. The use of Lithium Chloride can able to increase stem cells differentiation into oligodendrocytes and improve re-myelination in MS.
Early Triassic super-greenhouse climate driven by vegetation collapse
Authors: Xu Zhen , Yu Jianxin , Yin Hongfu , Merdith Andrew , Hilton Jason , Allen Bethany , Wignall Paul , Dunhill Alexander , Gurung Khushboo , Shen Jun , Schwartzman David , Godderis Yves , Donnadieu Yannick , Wang Yuxuan , Zhang Yinggang , Poulton Simon , Mills Benjamin
Published: September 2022

The Permian–Triassic Mass Extinction (PTME), life’s most severe crisis1, has been attributed to intense global warming triggered by CO2 emissions from Large Igneous Province volcanism2–8. It remains unclear, however, why super-greenhouse conditions persisted for around five million years after the volcanic episode, when Earth system feedbacks should have returned temperatures to pre-extinction levels within a few hundred thousand years8. Here we use fossil occurrences and lithological indicators of climate to reconstruct spatio-temporal maps of plant productivity and biomass changes through the Permian–Triassic and undertake climate-biogeochemical modelling to investigate the unusual longevity and intensity of warming. Our reconstructions show that terrestrial vegetation collapse during the PTME, especially in tropical regions, resulted in an Earth system with low levels of organic carbon sequestration and chemical weathering, leading to limited drawdown of greenhouse gases. This led to a protracted period of extremely high surface temperatures, during which biotic recovery was delayed for millions of years. Our results support the idea that thresholds exist in the climate-carbon system beyond which warming may be amplified substantially.
Treatment of severe ankylosing spondylitis with high-dose secukinumab: A retrospective study
Authors: Lei Hongwei , Huang He , Ma chenxi , Li Yingnan
Published: September 2022

Background: Secukinumab is an effective biological agent for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis(AS); however, some patients do not respond well to the administration of 150 mg every 4 weeks and require more effective management measures. This retrospective study evaluates the efficacy and safety of the administration of secukinumab (300 mg every 4 weeks) in patients with severe AS.
Methods: We reported 12 patients with severe ASand retrospectively reviewed their clinical records and follow-up data. These 12 patients were predominantly men (83.33%)with a mean age of 39.33 ± 13.01 years at the start of secukinumab treatment. Their mean body mass index was 27.48 ± 1.21kg/m2. The patients showed severe disease activity at baseline [Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) score > 4]. The protocol of administration of subcutaneous loading doses of secukinumab every 5 weeks was instituted, followed by subcutaneous administration of secukinumab, 300 mg every 4 weeks or 150 mg every 3 weeks; the patients were advised against off-label use. The assessment of the patients’ conditions, including the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS), BASDAI, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) was performed at weeks 12 and 24.
Results: All 12 patients had a reduction of more than 1.1 in the ASDAS at week 12, and the effect persisted through to week 22. The 50% BASDAIresponse rate was 58.3% at week 12 and 83.3% at week 24. No new safety findings were observed.
Conclusion: Subcutaneous administration of secukinumab, 300 mg every 4 weeks or 150 mg every 3 weeks, showed sustained efficacy of AS and a consistent safety profile after 24 weeks of treatment. This study is a retrospective study with a limited number of cases and a short observation period, which were the major limitations of the study. This retrospective study provides powerful evidence for the novel treatment strategy of refractory active AS switching to 300 mg secukinumab.
Factors Influencing Hemodialysis Patients Survival Using Frailty Models
Authors: Montaseri Maryam , Dindarloo Mohammad Mehdi , Espahbodi Fatemeh , Yazdani-Charati Jamshid
Published: September 2022

Background and objection:
Hemodialysis is the most common renal replacement therapy in patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). This study investigated the 5-year survival rate of hemodialysis patients admitted to Imam Khomeini and Fatima Zahra Hospitals in Sari.
Materials & Methods
This study was performed on 335 patients on hemodialysis referring to Imam Khomeini and Fatima Zahra Hospitals from November 2008 to November 2013. To investigate the factors influencing the patients' survival rate, we used Cox model and Frailty model and compared these models efficiency, we also applied the Akaikie information criterion and the residuals review. All calculations have been performed with SPSS version 20 & STATA version 8 and the significance level was 0.05.
Findings:
The results of this study showed that applying the Kaplan– Meier method to determine one, three and five year’s survival rates for hemodialysis patients were 74.9%, 53.2% and 20.4%, respectively. The mean survival time was 37.241 months. In the final model, in multivariate analysis of the gamma frailty model, the variables as age, education, marital status, diabetes, Kidney stone & obstructions, the clinic, the mean serum albumin and urea have been identified as the most important predictors in hemodialysis patients' survival (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
According to the results of the frailty model fitness, the hemodialysis patients having the same explanatory variables also have different risk of death. Giving the Akaikie information criterion and the residuals review, the Weibull model with gamma frailty is more efficient than the Cox model and it has good fitness to the data.
Choice of Anesthesia Regimen Significantly Impacts Shunting and Diastolic Ventricular Function During Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: Healan SJ , Staudt GE , Nicholson GT , Janssen  , Doyle TP , Smith HA , McEachern WA , Hill NE , Lamb FS
Published: September 2022

Background
Most pediatric cardiac catheterizations are performed under general anesthesia, but few studies have examined how choice of anesthesia agent impacts hemodynamic data in pediatric patients. Our objective was to compare hemodynamics obtained under inhaled versus total intravenous anesthesia, and to determine if one more closely reflects the awake state.
Methods
Pediatric patients requiring percutaneous closure of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) or surveillance endomyocardial biopsy after orthotopic heart transplant (OHT) at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt were enrolled. Each participant underwent hemodynamic assessment under inhaled volatile anesthesia (sevoflurane), and then under total intravenous anesthesia (dexmedetomidine and propofol) after a brief washout period. Paired data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon-signed rank test. Linear regression was used to analyze correlation between continuous variables.
Results
Twenty-five patients (13 OHT, 12 PDA) aged 6 months to 18 years were studied. Compared to baseline pre-procedure non-invasive blood pressure, systolic blood pressure was significantly lower under inhaled anesthesia versus intravenous anesthesia. Systemic vascular resistance was also significantly lower under inhaled anesthesia, while pulmonary vascular resistance was similar in both phases. In patients with a PDA, left-to-right shunting increased significantly under intravenous anesthesia versus inhaled. Similarly, in transplant patients, left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) increased following transition to intravenous anesthesia, with a positive correlation between the increase observed and the initial LVEDP under inhaled anesthesia.
Conclusions
Hemodynamics were impacted by the mechanism of general anesthesia. An intravenous anesthesia regimen may more closely reflect the awake, pre-catheterization state compared to inhaled volatile anesthesia.
Incidence and risk factors of bowel dysfunction after minimally invasive rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Ota Emi , Nagasaki Toshiya , Akiyoshi Takashi , Mukai Toshiki , Hiyoshi Yukiharu , Yamaguchi Tomohiro , Fukunaga Yosuke
Published: September 2022

Purpose
Bowel dysfunction after sphincter-preserving-surgery (SPS) has a negative impact on the quality of life. Wexner and low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) scores are well-established instruments for assessing postoperative bowel dysfunction. This study aimed to analyze each symptom’s incidence and risk factors based on these scores. Additionally, the discrepancies between the two scores were analyzed.
Methods
Between May 2018 and July 2019, 142 patients with rectal cancer who underwent SPS via a minimally invasive surgery were included in this study. A questionnaire survey using the Wexner and LARS scores was administered 2-year after SPS or diverting ileostomy closure.
Results
Preoperative radiotherapy (RT) was a risk factor for five subscales composing the Wexner and LARS scores. Approximately 80% of patients undergoing preoperative RT reported their life-style alterations because of bowel dysfunction. Handsewn coloanal anastomosis (HSA) was a risk factor for the three subscales of the two scores. More than 90% of the patients who underwent HSA experienced urgency and all patients suffered from clustering. Of 35 patients with minor LARS, only one had a high Wexner score, and 28 (80.0%) patients did not report lifestyle alterations. Among the patients with major LARS, 58.7% had a low Wexner score, and 21.3% never felt their lifestyle alterations.
Conclusion
The results of this study provide practical data to facilitate patients’ perception of potential bowel dysfunction after surgery. The discrepancies between the Wexner and LARS scores were clarified, and further efforts are required to utilize these scores in clinical practice.
Knowledge, Attitude, Beliefs and Perception of Periodic Health Checkup Among the General Public Across Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Authors: Dixit Divyansh , Taneja Varun , B Swarna Priya , Kandhuri Tharun
Published: September 2022

Periodic health checkup (PHC) has been recognized as a key instrument in the practice of preventive healthcare since the early 1900s and has been supported for maintaining health and preventing diseases, however, it has never been shown to be economical. Periodic Health Checkups (PHC), a primary level of care provided by healthcare facilities to prevent and manage several chronic diseases, PHCs comprise history-taking, clinical examination, and laboratory investigations in which even asymptomatic people of any age can participate. Disease outcomes and activities connected to health are correlated with socioeconomic level, Low socioeconomic level people are more susceptible to harmful living conditions, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems, all of which have a detrimental impact on their quality of life. Moreover, because to their limited exposure to hospitals for basic healthcare services, socioeconomic inequality makes it difficult for such people to benefit from periodic health check-up programs. Low socioeconomic status people have been found to be less likely to participate in Periodic health examinations. Socioeconomic/demographic characteristics also include factors like social class, employment status, educational attainment, and the number of independent years of study. Having health insurance can increase these individuals' likelihood of taking part in the periodic health checkups, here we hope to analyze and evaluate public knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions related various socioeconomic conditions and periodic health checkups through this research study.
Eddystone-UID Frame with Data Confidentiality and Integrity for Secured Data Broadcasting by BLE Beacons
Authors: Gulhane Vijay S. , Padiya Sagar D.
Published: September 2022

Beacons are small-sized embedded devices that periodically broadcasts radio frequency (RF) signals without establishing a connection so that any other Bluetooth-equipped device/s in the range can receive the broadcasted data, but some applications desired that data should be observed only by an authenticated receiver. The beacon specification does not have any authentication mechanism, anyone can observe broadcasted information. Beacon has very limited security provisions, as any observer can receive the signal and also easily get the message. This research defined an extension of Google Eddystone-UID for secured data broadcasting without affecting regular operations. The proposed “Extended Eddystone-UID Frame” assures secured broadcasting by performing the data cryptography and data integrity. The experiment concluded that the proposed frame does not add any extra bytes, therefore, it does not require any more time and energy, and it is capable to broadcast data securely at the same time and energy as standard protocol required.
Production of Self-Compacted High Strength Brick Material without Portland Cement
Authors: TURGUT Paki , DEMİR Feridun , TÜRK Kazım
Published: September 2022

Bağlayıcılık özelliğine sahip olan bazı uçucu küller ilgili standartları sağlamadığından beton sektöründe kullanılmamaktadır. Atık depolama alanlarına gönderilen bu tür uçucu küller toprağa ve yeraltı sularına zarar vermektedir. Kangal Termik Güç Tesisi uçucu külü de beton sektöründe kullanılmamakta ve atık depolama alanına gönderilmektedir. Bu çalışmada, Kangal Termik Güç Tesisi uçucu külü, atık cam tozu ve kireç kullanılarak, kendiliğinden yerleşen yüksek dayanımlı briket üretilmiştir. Ağırlıkça %66 uçucu kül, %7 kireç ve %27 atık cam tozuyla üretilen briketin 56 günlük basınç dayanımı 67,5 MPa olmuştur. Üretilen briketlerin birim ağırlık, su emme, kılcal su emme ve ısıl iletkenlik değerlerinin yanında mikro yapıları da incelenmiştir. Üretilen briketler ulusal ve uluslararası standartlarda verilen sınır değerlerini sağlamıştır. Üretilen bu briketler kırsal kesimde yaşayan düşük gelirli insanların konut sorunun çözümüne yardımcı olabilir.
A Data Mining Application in Customer Churn Prediction
Authors: BÜYÜKKEÇECİ Mustafa , OKUR Mehmet Cudi
Published: September 2022

Müşteri memnuniyeti ve sadakati uygun fiyat, ürün çeşitliliği, hızlı tedarik ve sevkiyat, ürün kalitesi, satış öncesi ve sonrası hizmetler ve müşteri davranışlarının analiz edilmesi ile sağlanır. Müşteri davranışlarını analiz eden işletmeler hem mevcut müşterilerini koruyabilir hem de yenilerini kazanabilir. Bu çalışmanın amacı işletmeleri terk etme ihtimali olan müşterileri tahmin edebilen gözetimli modeller üretmektir. Bu amaçla toplamda 21 sınıflandırma yöntemi ve telekomünikasyon, bankacılık ve e–ticaret sektörlerine ait veri kümeleri kullanılarak deney çalışmaları gerçekleştirilmiştir. Ayrıca işletmelerin harcama alışkanlıklarına göre müşterileri sıralamak ve sınıflandırmak için kullandıkları basit ama etkili bir pazarlama analiz aracı olan RFM (Recency, Frequency, Monetary Value) bölümlemesi, Ki-Kare Testi ile birlikte boyut indirgeme metodu olarak kullanılmıştır. Böylelikle optimal eleman sayısına sahip öznitelik altkümelerinin elde edilmesi ve öznitelik seçim öncesi ve sonrası model performanslarının kıyaslanması hedeflenmiştir.
Denizlerde Müsilaj Olayının Tespitine Yönelik Optik Tanımlayıcı Motifin Belirlenmesi
Authors: ERONAT A. Hüsnü
Published: September 2022

Musilaj olayı denizlerin abiyotik faktorlerinde önemli değişiklikler oluşturmanın yanında, canlılık için de önemli tehditler oluşturmaktadır. Oluşturduğu bu önemli etkiler göz önünde bulundurulduğunda musilaj olayının mekansal ve zamansal oluşumunu hızlı şekilde tespit ve takip etmek önem kazanmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, musilaj olayının gerçekleştiği deniz alanlarının hızlı tespitine yönelik olarak atmosfer üstü sudan çıkan radyans reflektans değerleri üzerinde oluşturduğu optik olarak tanımlayıcı motif tespit edilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bulgular, musilaj olayının gözlemlendiği deniz alanlarının diğer alanlara göre on ila yedi kat arasında daha yüksek atmosfer üstü sudan çıkan radyans reflektans değerlerine ulaştığı tespit edilmiştir. İstatistiki olarak anlamlı bu farkın optik tanımlayıcı motifi olarak tanımlanması mümkün olmuştur. Ortaya koyulan bu motifin gerek musilaj hadisesinin erken tespiti, gerekse ulusal izleme sistemi oluşturmak konusunda önemli katkılar sağlayacağı düşünülmektedir.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Increasing Engine Load on Silencer Back Pressure in a Diesel Generator
Authors: DOĞAN Yalçın , UYSAL Murat
Published: September 2022

In this study, the exhaust back pressure (EBP) behavior resulting from the gradual increase in engine load of the exhaust muffler system used in a diesel engine generator was investigated numerically and experimentally. By examining the compatibility of numerical analysis and experimental test exhaust back pressure results with each other, the possibility of eliminating the need for experimental exhaust back pressure test is examined. Firstly, the exhaust gas temperature and flow rate of the selected diesel engine under five different engine loads were experimentally measured. A reactive muffler with perforated pipe, designed to be integrated into the selected engine, was subjected to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyzes using measured exhaust gas temperature and gas flow rate. Numerical EBP values were obtained with these numerical analysis studies, which were carried out using the finite volume method in the ANSYS-Fluent program. Finally, the exhaust silencer system, which was manufactured, was subjected to experimental EBP tests under five different engine loads that were gradually increased. According to the numerical and experimental EBP results obtained, it has been observed that the gradual engine load increase in a diesel generator increases the EBP as parabolic. It was understood that the numerical and experimental results of the EBP for different load conditions became more compatible as the engine load increased, and the numerical analysis error rate was found as 4.06% under the 110% engine load which is the critical load condition. In addition, it was concluded that the need for experimental EBP tests can be eliminated by using only numerical studies in the generator exhaust muffler design.
Near-infrared spectroscopy as a green technology to monitor coffee roasting
Authors: Wójcicki Krzysztof
Published: September 2022

Wet chemistry methods are traditionally used to evaluate the quality of a coffee beverage and its chemical characteristics. These old methods need to be replaced with more rapid, objective, and simple analytical methods for routine analysis. Near-infrared spectroscopy is an increasingly popular technique for nondestructive quality evaluation called a green technology.

Our study aimed to apply near-infrared spectroscopy to evaluate the quality of coffee samples of different origin (Brazil, Guatemala, Peru, and Kongo). Particularly, we analyzed the roasting time and its effect on the quality of coffee. The colorimetric method determined a relation between the coffee color and the time of roasting. Partial least squares regression analysis assessed a possibility of predicting the roasting conditions from the near-infrared spectra.

The regression results confirmed the possibility of applying near-infrared spectra to estimate the roasting conditions. The correlation between the spectra and the roasting time had R2 values of 0.96 and 0.95 for calibration and validation, respectively. The root mean square errors of prediction were low – 0.92 and 1.05 for calibration and validation, respectively. We also found a linear relation between the spectra and the roasting power. The quality of the models differed depending on the coffee origin and sub-region. All the coffee samples showed a good correlation between the spectra and the brightness (L* parameter), with R2 values of 0.96 and 0.95 for the calibration and validation curves, respectively.

According to the results, near-infrared spectroscopy can be used together with the chemometric analysis as a green technology to assess the quality of coffee.
Fetal Encephalomalacia Secondary to Acute Maternal Blood Loss: A Case Study
Authors: Manzar Shabih
Published: September 2022

Background:

Fetal neurons are sensitive to ischemia which could happen secondary to acute maternal blood loss. The damage to the fetal brain with loss of brain
neurons in early gestation leads to encephalomalacia. We describe here a case report of fetal encephalomalacia secondary to acute maternal blood
loss.

Case Presentation:

A 23-year-old gravida 3, para 2 woman sustained a forearm laceration at 18 weeks of gestation. Her hemoglobin dropped to 7.9 mg/dL. A surgical
laceration repair was completed, and she was transfused with blood. At the OB visit the following week, her fetal US showed abnormal brain,
evident by the increased size of the lateral ventricles. A follow-up MRI at 30 weeks of gestation confirmed fetal encephalomalacia. A complete
investigation, including free cell maternal DNA for chromosomal anomalies, TORCH infection, and Covid PCR, all were negative.

Conclusion:

We concluded from the case that any history of significant acute maternal blood loss that required blood transfusion should necessitate a fetal
ultrasound to look for fetal well-being, especially for any brain structural changes in the developing brain.
Biomarkers in Hypertension and Hypertension-related Disorders
Authors: de Carvalho Ribeiro Patrícia , Oliveira Lucas Felipe , Filho Daniel Mendes , Parreira Ricardo Cambraia , Vieira Mariana Sousa , Marques Bruno Lemes , da Madeira Freitas Elis Marra , Silva Walison N. , Santiago Helton da Costa , Birbrair Alexander , Ulrich Henning , da Silva Valdo José Dias , Resende Rodrigo R.
Published: September 2022

Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is a major risk factor for several secondary
diseases, especially cardiovascular and renal conditions. SAH has a high prevalence
worldwide, and its precise and early recognition is important to prevent the development
of secondary outcomes. In this field, the study of biomarkers represents an important
approach to diagnosing and predicting the disease and its associated conditions. The
use of biomarkers in hypertension and hypertension-related disorders, such as ischemic
stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, transient ischemic attack, acute myocardial infarction,
angina pectoris and chronic kidney disease, are discussed in this review. Establishing a
potential pool of biomarkers may contribute to a non-invasive and improved approach
for their diagnosis, prognosis, risk assessment, therapy management and pharmacological
responses to a therapeutic intervention to improve patients' quality of life and prevent unfavorable
outcomes.
Significant Role of Long Non-coding RNAs in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Na Chen , Wen-Wen Chen , Li Wang , Ao-Jia Zhou , Ting Wang
Published: September 2022

Background:

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the
world, with clinical manifestations of resting tremor, akinesia (or bradykinesia), rigidity, and postural instability. However, the molecular pathogenesis of PD is still unclear, and its effective treatments are limited. Substantial evidence demonstrates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have important functions in various human diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to review the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of PD.

Methods:

The role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of PD is summarized by reviewing Pubmed.

Result:

Thirty different lncRNAs are aberrantly expressed in PD and promote or inhibit PD by mediating
ubiquitin-proteasome system, autophagy-lysosomal pathway, dopamine (DA) neuronal apoptosis, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation.

Conclusion:

In this direction, lncRNA may contribute to the treatment of PD as a diagnostic and therapeutic
target for PD.
Metabolic Pathways Regulating Colorectal Cancer: A Potential Therapeutic
Approach
Authors: Zafari Nima , Velayati Mahla , Damavandi Sedigheh , Pourali Ghazaleh , Mobarhan Majid Ghayour , Nassiri Mohammadreza , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi , Khazaei Majid , Ferns Gordon A. , Avan Amir
Published: September 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers globally. Despite recent progress in
identifying etiologies and molecular genetics as well as new therapeutic approaches, the clinical outcome of
current CRC therapies remains poor. This fact highlights the importance of further understanding underlying
mechanisms involved in colorectal tumor initiation and progression. Abnormal metabolic alterations offer an
evolutional advantage for CRC tumor cells and enhance their aggressive phenotype. Therefore, dysregulation of
cellular metabolism is intricately associated with colorectal tumorigenesis. This review summarizes recent findings
regarding the CRC-related changes in cellular metabolic pathways such as glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid
cycle, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial metabolism. We describe the oncogenic signaling pathways associated
with metabolic dysregulation during malignant transformation and tumor progression. Given the crucial
role of metabolic pathway alterations in the pathogenesis of CRC, we provide an overview of novel pharmacological
strategies for the treatment of CRC by targeting metabolic and signaling pathways.
Gastrointestinal System: COVID-19 and Potential Mechanisms Associated
with Coagulopathy
Authors: Danese Silvio , Furfaro Federica , Gabbiadini Roberto , D’Amico Ferdinando , Zilli Alessandra , Dal Buono Arianna , Allocca Mariangela , Fiorino Gionata
Published: September 2022

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus that expanded worldwide, generating a pandemic of acute respiratory syndrome called “coronavirus disease 2019” (COVID-19), which resulted in a global health crisis. The spectrum of COVID-19 manifestations ranges from none or mild symp-toms to severe respiratory failure associated with systemic manifestations, mostly gastrointestinal symptoms. Hypercoagulability is an important feature of COVID-19 disease, which can potentially influence patients’ prognosis. Therefore, gastroenterologists should focus on subjects with concomi-tant hypercoagulable gastrointestinal disorders as they may display a higher risk of thrombotic complications during SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of this review is to summarize the available evidence regarding the interplay of the prothrombotic pathogenetic mechanisms of both COVID-19 and hypercoagulable digestive diseases and the possible clinical implications. We summarized the potential interplay of prothrombotic mechanisms of both COVID-19 and hypercoagulable digestive diseases in the graphical abstract.
Role of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Responses in the
Development of Secondary Diabetic Complications
Authors: Plowman Trevor J. , Shah Mujtaba H. , Fernandez Emely , Christensen Hannah , Aiges Myia , Ramana Kota V.
Published: September 2022

Increased hyperglycemia due to uncontrolled diabetes is the major cause of
secondary diabetic complications such as retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, and
cardiovascular diseases. Although it is well known that increased oxidative stress,
activation of the polyol pathway, protein kinase C and increased generation of advanced
glycation end products could contribute to the development of diabetic complications,
recent studies implicated the role of innate immunity and its related inflammatory
responses in the pathophysiology of secondary diabetic complications. Increased activation
of oxidative stress signaling could regulate NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated
innate immune responses as well as NF-κB signalosome-mediated pro-inflammatory
responses. This review article focused on the pathogenic role of innate immune and
inflammatory responses in the progression of hyperglycemia-induced secondary diabetic
complications. Specifically, we discussed in depth how deregulated innate immune
and inflammatory responses could lead to an aggravated release of cytokines,
chemokines, and growth factors resulting in the development of various secondary
complications of diabetes.
Protein Arginine Methyltransferases 5 (PRMT5) affect Multiple Stages of
Autophagy and Modulate Autophagy-related Genes in Controlling Breast
Cancer Tumorigenesis
Authors: Ling Rui , Kong Jing , Wang Zhe , Zhang Yong , Wang Ting
Published: September 2022

Background:

Autophagy disorders are linked to human cancer, and the details of their
mechanisms remain unclear.

Objective:

To investigate the regulatory role of PRMT5 in the autophagy of breast cancer cells.

Methods:

Human breast adenocarcinoma cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MCF7) were cultured. Plasmids
of overexpression and down-regulation of PRMT5 were transfected into MDA-MB-231 and MCF7
cells. The MTT assay was used to determine the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells. A
western blotting assay was used to verify the expression of autophagy-associated molecules. Immunofluorescence
was applied to observe the expression of GFP-LC3.

Results:

The expression of PRMT5 decreased the sensitivity to rapamycin and nutrient deprivation.
PRMT5 acts as an oncogene to promote cell proliferation and influences migration and stamness.
PRMT5 expression elevated the autophagic activity initiated by EBSS and Rapamycin. PRMT5 was
necessary and sufficient to enhance stress-induced autophagy. PRMT5 could improve several autophagy-
related gene expressions. Atg5 expression could be regulated by activating the PRMT5 and
PDCD4 molecules. The PRMT5 molecule could mediate the regulation of ULK1 expression.

Conclusions:

PRMT5 influenced multiple stages of autophagy in controlling autophagy and tumorigenesis.
Autophagy-related PRMT5 might be a respected target for therapeutic interventions in cancers.
This study would provide new ideas for treating and selecting breast cancer targets.