bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Quantitative Analysis of Preventive Measures to Mitigate the Infectious Diseases Using SIR model by Optimal Control Technique
Authors: Sultana Jakia , Tanni Samiha Islam , Islam Shamima
Published: November 2020

Optimal Control Problem with the state equations which describes the standard SIR Model is studied here. We considered the SIR Model with vaccination and without vaccination. We formulated an optimal control problem and derived necessary conditions. Existence of the state and the objective functional are also verified. We also characterized the optimal control by Pontryagin’s maximum principle which minimizes the number of infected individuals and cost of vaccination over some finite period. Whenever the vaccination is carried out for a long period of time, the simulated result effectively works for disease with high transmission rate. Observations from the numerical simulation revels that the infectious diseases are most successfully controlled whenever control strategies were adopted at early stages.

GUB JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING, Vol 5(1), Dec 2018 P 11-19
Auto Segmentation of Breast Tumor in B-Mode Ultrasound Analysis
Authors: Kabir Shahriar Mahmud , Bhuiyan Mohammed Imamul Hassan
Published: November 2020

Segmentation or lesion boundary detection in classification of Benign and Malignant breast tumors from B-Mode ultrasound image analysis is a challenging one. In this study, first a suitable frame is chosen by strain and velocity imaging from a raw radio frequency (RF) echo of clinical cases. The consequent B-Mode ultrasound (US) image is calculated and binarized. Finally, the lesion boundary is well-defined by binary dilation technique using MATLAB.

GUB JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING, Vol 5(1), Dec 2018 P 75-78
Comparison between aspiration and incision and drainage of breast abscess
Authors: Md Fardhus - , Sharfuzzaman AMSM , Dewan Md Nayeem , Kirttania Dipak Chandra , Hasan Ahmed Sami AI , Rab Joy Zakharia
Published: November 2020

Background: Breast abscess is defined as an acute inflammatory lump which yields pus on incision/aspiration. The frequency of occurrence is highly related to pregnancy and caused due to nipple cracking by a child during breast feeding and bacterial colonization due to improper nursing technique and incomplete emptying of the breast. Objective: The present study compares the outcome and effectiveness of traditional treatment incision and drainage against needle aspiration in the treatment of breast abscess.

Methods: This is a comparative study carried out in department of general surgery, SherE- Bangla Medical College Hospital, Barisal between January 2014 and December 2014. 50 female patients of age between 20-40 years and diagnosed breast abscess with abscess size of 5'7 cm in diameter on ultrasonography were included in the study after taking written consent form. Of these 25 had undergone aspiration of the breast abscess (group A) and 25 had undergone incision and drainage (group B).

Results: The mean age of the female patients in group A was 23.42 years and in Group B was 23.31. 91% of the cases were lactating. S. aureus was the common organism isolated in both lactating and non-lactating cases, encountered in 27 patients (54%). Out of that were in the aspirated group 17patients (56.67%). 10 patients were in the incised group (33.33%). The mean healing time and cosmetic outcome was significantly (p =0.001) very good in patients treated with needle aspiration compared to incision and drainage. There was no recurrence of breast abscess observed in needle aspiration group during the study. There was 3.3% recurrence rate observed in the incision and drainage group.

Conclusion: Breast abscess in patients with diameter of 5'7 cm can be treated with needle aspiration successfully and with a good cosmetic outcome.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2018) Vol. 22 (1): 11-15
Early Outcome of Open versus Closed Lateral Internal Anal Sphincterotomy in the Treatment of Chronic Anal Fissure
Authors: Zim Hasnat Zaman , Bar Debashish , Sarker Ashok Kumar , Sultana Salma
Published: November 2020

Background: Chronic anal fissure is a benign disorder that is associated with considerable discomfort. Surgical treatment in the form of lateral internal sphincterotomy has long been regarded as the gold standard of treatment. Two methods of sphincterotomy are currently practiced: open or closed technique.

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the early outcome of closed versus open lateral internal anal sphincterotomy for the treatment of chronic anal fissure, based on the assessment of post-operative pain and complications.

Methods: A comparative study was conducted at the department of surgery in Dhaka Medical College & Hospital, over a period of 6 months from April 2015 to September 2015. A total of 80 patients were purposefully included in this study and were equally divided into two groups; Group A included 40 patients undergone closed lateral internal anal sphincterotomy and Group B included 40 patients undergone open lateral internal anal sphincterotomy. Patients were followed up postoperatively for 6 weeks to assess any complications. The outcomes were compared between the groups using the Chi-square (x2) test and Student's "t" test.

Results: Delayed postoperative healing was found in 7.5% patients of the open lateral internal anal sphincterotomy group. The mean pain score and duration of hospital stay were lower in closed lateral internal anal sphincterotomy group.

Conclusion: Closed lateral internal sphincterotomy is preferred to open technique in the treatment of chronic anal fissure, as it is effective, safe, less expensive, and is associated with low complication rate.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2018) Vol. 22 (1): 52-57
Lichtenstein Versus Desarda’s Technique of Hernia Repair
Authors: Md Fardhus - , Sharfuzzaman AMSM , Dewan Md Nayeem , Hossain Md Abul , Hasan Ahmed Sami Al , Rab Joy Zauharia
Published: November 2020

Aim: To compare Desarda’s versus Lichtenstein’s mesh repair in patients with unilateral, primary, reducible inguinal hernia in terms of mean operative time and seroma formation

Methods: This randomized control trial conducted at Department of Surgery, Patuakhali Medical College & Hospital, Patuakhali. Eighty patients with unilateral, primary, reducible inguinal hernia were randomly distributed into two groups to undergo hernia repair i.e. Lichtenstein (L) and Desarda’s (D). Outcome was measured in terms of mean operative time and seroma formation. Seroma formation was defined as presence of enclosed cavity containing serous fluid determined by ultrasonography at 30th post-operative day.

Results: Thirty three patients (41.25%) were above 50 years of age, whereas remaining 47 patients (58.75%) were below 50 years of age. Five patients (6.25%) were female and 75 patients(93.75%) were male. Seroma formation was 5% in Desarda’s group while 7.5% in Lichtenstein group (P> 0.05). Similarly difference in mean operative time was statistically non-significant. Seroma formation was common in older age group. There was no effect of smoking, obesity, operative time and gender on seroma formation. Conclusion: It is concluded that there is no difference in frequency of seroma formation and mean operative time in Desarda’s or Lichtenstein’s technique of hernia repair.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2018) Vol. 22 (2) : 99-103
Spectrum and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Bacteria Causing Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Afroz Sadia , Habib Zakir Hossain , Billah Syed Muhammad Baqui , Akhter Hasina , Jahan Hosne , Parveen Rafia
Published: November 2020

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections encountered by clinicians particularly in developing countries. Current knowledge on antimicrobial resistance pattern is essential for appropriate therapy. The aim of the present study was to identify the causative organisms for UTI and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of organisms causing UTI.

Method: This cross sectional study was carried out in the department of Microbiology, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka, from a period of January 2014 to December 2014.

Results: Out of 2136 clinical sample of urine, 430 (20.1%) showed significant bacterial growth. Escherichia coli was the commonest urinary pathogen (76.3%), followed by Pseudomonas spp. (7.9%), Proteus spp. (7.2%), Klebsiella spp., Citrobacter spp. (1.9% each) and Staphylococcus aureus (1.6%). Isolated uropathogens showed highest resistance for Amoxycillin (86%-97%) and Cefradin (71%-100%), resistance rate for other commonly used antimicrobial agents was high; Cefixime (52%-85%), Ceftriaxone (50%-71%), Ciprofloxacin (50%-88%), Cotrimoxazole (50%-75%), Gentamicin (57%-75%) and Nitrofurantoin (43%-100%), while uropathogens were least resistant to Imipenem (0%-15%) and Amikacin (0%-29%).

Conclusion: Due to high degree of resistance to commonly used antimicrobials to treat UTI, routine monitoring and evaluation studies should be conducted to update physicians’ knowledge about most effective antibiotics for treatment of UTI.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2019) Vol. 23 (1) : 13-18
Causes and Consequences of Acid Violence among the Victims Attended in Specialized Aacid Survivor center in Dhaka City
Authors: Sharmin Afrina , Humayra Zaman Ummay , Khan Mostafa Amin
Published: November 2020

Background: Acid burn injuries represent a special type of burn injury, with a pathophysiology depending on the type of acid, concentration, strength, quality, duration of contact, and penetration power. The consequence of acid attacks on survivors brings dramatic change in their lifestyle. The alarming increase of acid-throwing cases for the last 2 decades in Bangladesh is a cause of concern which led to its study.

Objective: To describe the causes and consequences of acid violence among the acid burn victims in a specific center of Bangladesh.

Methods: This is a cross sectional type of study conducted over a period of one year from December 2013 to November 2014 at Acid Survivors Foundation, Mirpur, Dhaka. 121 victims of acid violence were included in the study. Data collected by interviewing the patients using semi structured questionnaire which were later edited and analysed.

Results: Among the respondents 25.6% (n= 31) were in the age group of 11 – 20 years, followed by 24.8% (n= 30) in the age group of 31 – 40 years. Causes of Threw Acid is 40.4% (49) cases were due to refusal of love or marriage proposal, in 27.3 (33) cases were due to dowry. Majority of cases affected on chest (62.0%), upper limb (58.7%), face (53.7%), neck (47.9%), back trunk (27.3%), lower limb (24.8%), abdomen (24.0%). Out of 121 patients 62.85% (n=44) needed single surgery, 28.57% (n=20) needed multiple setting surgery and 56.2% heal with minor scar, 25.6% had neck contracture, 21.5% had deformity in face. 81.0% are suffering from both anxiety and depression, 11.6% from anxiety alone and 7.4% from depression alone.

Conclusion: A comprehensive effective, integrated, and gender specific medico-legal support for acid violence survivors should be ensured throughout the country.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2019) Vol. 23 (1) : 29-32
Haemobilia of a 17 Years Girl Following Road Traffic Accident
Authors: Hoque Md Rajibul , Alievna Mostakim Maria , Rahman Ayesha , Talukder Md Tuhin , Saha Tapan Kumar
Published: November 2020

Haemobilia is a rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding, which develops as a result of communication between blood vessel and biliary tract. It should be considered in patients presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding with prior history of blunt trauma abdomen. We present a case of 17 years girl who sustained blunt trauma abdomen due to road traffic accident. She developed hematemesis & melena with bleeding from the wound after laparotomy for liver injury. Endoscopy of upper gastrointestinal tract revealed blood coming from ampulla of vater. CT angiography of abdomen showed pseudoaneurysm in a branch of right hepatic artery. Patient recovered completely after therapeutic embolization.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2019) Vol. 23 (1) : 40-42
From the Desk of Editor in Chief
Authors: Sultana Salma
Published: November 2020

Abstract not available

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2019) Vol. 23 (1) : 43
Society News
Authors: Sultana Salma
Published: November 2020

Abstract not available

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2019) Vol. 23 (1) : 44
Laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia: Prospective evaluation at a tertiary care center
Authors: Rahman ABM Mahbubur , Alam Tamjeed , Alam AHM Shamsul , Ferdaus Fahim , Uddin Gazi Gias
Published: November 2020

Background: Treatment of groin hernias continues to evolve. The emergence of laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery has challenged the conventional gold standard Lichtenstein’s tension free mesh repair. Laparoscopic technique to achieve surgical correction over groin hernia is increasingly being practiced in our country, and it is imperative to test the overall outcome of this technique in a tertiary care setting.

Objectives: Current study was aimed at evaluating the per-operative events, early and late outcomes of laparoscopic groin hernia repair techniques. End points of evaluation were postoperative pain, hospital stay, resumption of normal activities, chronic pain and recurrence.

Methods: Within a 2-year period, 45 patients of groin hernias of different clinical types underwent laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in Bangladesh Medical College Hospital were recruited in this prospective observational study. Preoperative findings, intraoperative course, postoperative and follow-up data were analyzed to evaluate the outcomes. Observations were made regarding operating time, operative hazards, postoperative pain, incidence of early post-operative morbidities, hospital stay, resumption of activities. Total 24 months follow-up was carried out with regards to normal activity, late complications notably chronic groin pain and recurrence.

Results: The mean age of 38.1±11.1 years, 27(60%) patients underwent TEP repair whereas, TAPP procedure was carried out in 18 patients (40%). For unilateral hernia repair using TEP technique, mean operative time was 50.3±4.2 mints and 61.7±5.3 mints for direct and indirect variety (D/I), with the corresponding rates for TAPP repair being 65.0±2.2 mints and 72.8±3.2 mints (D/I) respectively. Conversion rate to other operative procedure was 6.67%. The overall surgery related early post-operative morbidity was 7.4% (TEP) and 16.8% (TAPP). 3 out of 45 patients (6.67%) experienced chronic pain in the groin in the study. However, there was no single incidence of recurrence observed during the follow up period.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic groin hernia repair techniques are safe and feasible, offers the benefits of minimally invasive surgery and becoming the procedure of choice specially for bilateral and recurrent inguinal hernias.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2019) Vol. 23(2): 54-58
Validation of LRINEC (Laboratory Risk Indicators for Diagnosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis) Scoring System for the Diagnosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis
Authors: Mohim Md Nur Alam , Bhuiya MA Hashem , Rahman AZM Mahfuzur , Islam Md Mahmudul , Bhuiya Masfique Ahmed
Published: November 2020

Background : Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare but potentially fatal infection involving the subcutaneous tissue and fascia. Different classifications and terminology has been used in NF based on affected anatomy, microbial cause and depth of infection. Clinical scores like the laboratory risk indicators for NF (LRINEC) scores are available to help diagnose NF and differentiate it from other skin and soft tissue infections.

Methods : A total of 100 patients were included in the study between January 2014 to June 2014. This prospective study was done on patients admitted in surgery department of DMCH with symptoms suggestive of soft tissue infections during the study period.

Results : Mean age was found 46.5(±13.8) years in severe cellulitis and 50.9(±9.8) years in necroting fasciitis (p>0.05). Male were predominant (60%). 80% of NF had DM. The validation test for LRINEC score e”6 vs necrotizing fasciitis had sensitivity of 66%, specificity 84%, accuracy 75%, positive and negative predictive values were 80.49% and 71.19% respectively. Mortality of NF was 6%.

Conclusion : The LRINEC score is an impressive diagnostic tool to distinguish necrotizing fasciitis from other severe soft tissue infections, but it is not useful for early recognition of necrotizing fasciitis.

Journal of Surgical Sciences (2019) Vol. 23(2): 75-80
Manejo ortodóncico-periodontal de recesión gingival
Authors: Urtubia Manríquez Constanza , García Izquierdo Cristóbal , Alarcón Azócar Carolina
Published: November 2020

Restaurar la posición dentaria y la salud periodontal es esencial en ortodoncia y periodoncia. Los objetivos de este artículo fueron evaluar un caso clínico mediante el análisis de la relación de los movimientos dentales y las recesiones gingivales, determinar el momento oportuno para la realización de la cirugía mucogingival y nombrar las posibles etiologías del movimiento dental indeseado a causa de un retenedor fijo. Presentamos un informe de 30 meses de seguimiento de una paciente, cuya queja principal fue sobre un cambio progresivo en la posición dental asociado con una recesión gingival, a pesar de un retenedor fijo de un tratamiento ortodóncico previo. Se indicó retratamiento de ortodoncia y cirugía periodontal para cubrir el defecto por recesión. Luego del tratamiento, se concluyó que los movimientos dentales pueden desencadenar, agravar o mejorar las recesiones gingivales, por lo que es importante una  evaluación previa individual. El momento de la cirugía mucogingival depende de la dirección del movimiento, los tejidos circundantes y el fenotipo periodontal del paciente.
Challenges to Speech Perception Impair Phonological Short-Term Memory
Authors: Smith Harriet J , Davis Matthew H
Published: November 2020

Poor performance on measures of phonological processing is common to both Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and dyslexia. Perceptual accounts characterise this phonological dysfunction as the result of auditory deficits at lower levels of the speech processing hierarchy, which may impair discrimination of speech sounds. However, a causal link between perceptual acuity for speech sounds and phonological performance has not been sufficiently established. We investigated whether challenges to speech perception can impair performance on a standard phonological task, in adults with normal language function. We used an audio-morphing procedure to create speech tokens with varying phonetic ambiguity. These formed the stimuli for an auditory letter span task (N = 36). Recall of high-ambiguity letters sequences was significantly impaired in comparison to low-ambiguity sequences, when stimuli were created by morphing two letters. We conclude that perceptually challenging speech can be more difficult to maintain in short-term memory.
Failure Analysis Of Buried Gas Pipelines Crossing Seismic Faults
Authors: Akram M. Rizwan , Yesilyurt Ali , Zulfikar A.Can. , Göktepe F.
Published: November 2020

Research on buried gas pipelines (BGPs) has taken an important consideration due to their failures in recent earthquakes. In permanent ground deformation (PGD) hazards, seismic faults are considered as one of the major causes of BGPs failure due to accumulation of impermissible tensile strains. In current research, four steel pipes such as X-42, X-52, X-60, and X-70 grades crossing through strike-slip, normal and reverse seismic faults have been investigated. Firstly, failure of BGPs due to change in soil-pipe parameters have been analyzed. Later, effects of seismic fault parameters such as change in dip angle and angle between pipe and fault plane are evaluated. Additionally, effects due to changing pipe class levels are also examined. The results of current study reveal that BGPs can resist until earthquake moment magnitude of 7.0 but fails above this limit under the assumed geotechnical properties of current study. In addition, strike-slip fault can trigger early damage in BGPs than normal and reverse faults. In the last stage, an early warning system is proposed based on the current procedure. 
Investigating the Possible Damages of Earthquakes in Submarine Pipelines in terms of Disaster Management
Authors: Ghasemlounia Redvan , Tolon Mert
Published: November 2020

Earthquake is one of the natural disasters that has always been of interest to researchers. It seems to be difficult to deal with an earthquake due to its accidental nature and unpredictability. Today, with the expansion of cities and the growth in their population, concerns about the increase in casualties and damages caused by the earthquake have increased. Post-earthquake management is highly dependent on predicting the amount and type of damage in any type of structure. Among these structures, little attention has been paid to infrastructures, including underground and submarine pipelines. Given the importance of these structures, research on the impact of earthquakes on these structures and their forms of damages is essential. It is also very important to predict the disaster management plan of the water supply, sewer, oil, and gas pipeline networks due to the earthquake threat. As it is known, the comprehensive approach to disaster management includes prevention (mitigation), preparedness, response, and recovery stages. This study focuses on investigating possible damages in submarine pipelines after an earthquake and study on mentioned disaster management stages and  provides an overview of the effects of possible earthquakes on submarine pipelines.
Deprem Yönetmeliklerine Göre Sakarya İli Genelinde Yapılan Proje ve İmalat Hataları
Authors: Altundal Adil , Kasap Hüseyin , Sever Abdullah
Published: November 2020

In this study, the usability of commonly used unidirectional toothed (asmolene) floorings in earthquake zones is analysed and 40 randomly selected buildings in Sakarya are examined according to both static - reinforced concrete projects and application phases according to DBYBHY 2007, TBDY 2018 and TS500. Also, forms including regulation articles of each building are arranged, the rates of mistakes made are calculated and compared with the studies conducted in other provinces. The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which the boundary conditions in earthquake regulations are complied with during the project and construction phases and how much the project were complied with during the construction phases, and what need to be done to eliminate the detected defects.
Ankara İli Kızılcahamam İlçesi’nde Taşkın Ötelenmesi Yöntemlerinin Performans Analizleri
Authors: SARIGÖL Metin , YÜKSEK Ömer
Published: November 2020

Bu çalışmada, Ankara İli Kızılcahamam İlçesi’nde meydana gelen taşkına ait 120,90 km2 alana sahip D12A242 nolu Akım Gözlem İstasyonu'nda (AGİ) ve bu AGİ'nun 2,061km mansabındaki D12A126 nolu AGİ'nda gözlenen birer saat aralıklı hidrograf verileri kullanılarak, ölçülen değerler ile hidrolojik ve hidrolik modellerin sonuçları karşılaştırılmıştır. Çalışmada hidrolojik modeller olarak Muskingum ve SCS; hidrolik modeller olarak da Kinematik Dalga, Muskingum-Cunge ve Dinamik yöntemler uygulanmıştır. Modellerin ölçülen değerlere uygunluğu; ölçülen ve modellerden hesaplanan değerler arasındaki Ortalama Mutlak Hata (OMH), Hataların Ortalama Karekökü (HOK) ve Belirlilik Katsayısı (R2) değerleri hesaplanarak belirlenmiş ve yöntemlerin performansları irdelenerek hangi yöntemin daha iyi sonuç verdiği değerlendirilmiştir. Çalışma sonunda, Dinamik Yöntemin en iyi tahmini verdiği, Muskingum ,Kinematik ve SCS Yöntemlerinin tahminlerinin de kabul edilebilecek düzeyde olduğu, Muskingum-Cunge Yönteminin ise biraz daha hatalı tahmin verdiği belirlenmiştir.
Rheumatology - A Qualitative Review of Community and Hospital Based Delivery Models
Authors: Jethwa Hannah , Abraham Sonya
Published: November 2020

Over recent years the increasing pressures on hospital based services has raised the question as to whether more clinical facilities can be provided in the community. Accordingly, commissioning groups have focused much of their energy towards research into whether this shift in healthcare models is feasible, cost-effective and satisfactory to both patients and healthcare providers. Specialties which lend themselves towards the possibility of community based models of care include those that manage patients with chronic but stable diseases and Rheumatology, in particular, has been a focus of such research.
Design Patterns for Resource-Constrained Automated Deep-Learning Methods
Authors: Tuggener Lukas , Amirian Mohammadreza , Benites Fernando , von Däniken Pius , Gupta Prakhar , Schilling Frank-Peter , Stadelmann Thilo
Published: November 2020

We present an extensive evaluation of a wide variety of promising design patterns for automated deep-learning (AutoDL) methods, organized according to the problem categories of the 2019 AutoDL challenges, which set the task of optimizing both model accuracy and search efficiency under tight time and computing constraints. We propose structured empirical evaluations as the most promising avenue to obtain design principles for deep-learning systems due to the absence of strong theoretical support. From these evaluations, we distill relevant patterns which give rise to neural network design recommendations. In particular, we establish (a) that very wide fully connected layers learn meaningful features faster; we illustrate (b) how the lack of pretraining in audio processing can be compensated by architecture search; we show (c) that in text processing deep-learning-based methods only pull ahead of traditional methods for short text lengths with less than a thousand characters under tight resource limitations; and lastly we present (d) evidence that in very data- and computing-constrained settings, hyperparameter tuning of more traditional machine-learning methods outperforms deep-learning systems.
β-Catenin Regulates Wound Healing and IL-6 Expression in Activated Human Astrocytes
Authors: Edara Venkata Viswanadh , Nooka Shruthi , Proulx Jessica , Stacy Satomi , Ghorpade Anuja , Borgmann Kathleen
Published: November 2020

Reactive astrogliosis is prominent in most neurodegenerative disorders and is often associated with neuroinflammation. The molecular mechanisms regulating astrocyte-linked neuropathogenesis during injury, aging and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the implications of the wingless type (Wnt)/β-catenin signaling pathway in regulating astrocyte function during gliosis. First, we identified that HIV-associated inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α induced mediators of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway including β-catenin and lymphoid enhancer-binding factor (LEF)-1 expression in astrocytes. Next, we investigated the regulatory role of β-catenin on primary aspects of reactive astrogliosis, including proliferation, migration and proinflammatory responses, such as IL-6. Knockdown of β-catenin impaired astrocyte proliferation and migration as shown by reduced cyclin-D1 levels, bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and wound healing. HIV-associated cytokines, IL-1β alone and in combination with TNF-α, strongly induced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines including C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)2, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)8 and IL-6; however, only IL-6 levels were regulated by β-catenin as demonstrated by knockdown and pharmacological stabilization. In this context, IL-6 levels were negatively regulated by β-catenin. To better understand this relationship, we examined the crossroads between β-catenin and nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathways. While NF-κB expression was significantly increased by IL-1β and TNF-α, NF-κB levels were not affected by β-catenin knockdown. IL-1β treatment significantly increased glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β phosphorylation, which inhibits β-catenin degradation. Further, pharmacological inhibition of GSK-3β increased nuclear translocation of both β-catenin and NF-κB p65 into the nucleus in the absence of any other inflammatory stimuli. HIV+ human astrocytes show increased IL-6, β-catenin and NF-κB expression levels and are interconnected by regulatory associations during HAND. In summary, our study demonstrates that HIV-associated inflammation increases β-catenin pathway mediators to augment activated astrocyte responses including migration and proliferation, while mitigating IL-6 expression. These findings suggest that β-catenin plays an anti-inflammatory role in activated human astrocytes during neuroinflammatory pathologies, such as HAND.
Cosmetic Potential of Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp: Botanical Data, Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities
Authors: Tungmunnithum Duangjai , Hano Christophe
Published: November 2020

Cajanus cajan (aka pigeon pea) is a terrestrial medicinal plant native to Asian and African countries before being introduced to the American continent. This protein-rich legume species, belonging to the Fabaceae family, has been traditionally used to cure various ailments in many traditional medicines. Recent works have highlighted it as a rich source of a wide array of flavonoids and other phenolic compounds. The major biological activities that are currently reported on are mainly focused on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities which are relevant for the cosmetic field. For example, hydroalcoholic extract from C. cajan has been highlighted as a particularly effective antioxidant in various scavenging assays for both reactive oxygen or nitrogen species. One of its constituents, cyanidin-3-monoglucoside, has been reported to suppress inflammatory cytokine production (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in murine RAW264.7 macrophages). The present review provides an overview on the flavonoids and phenolics from C. cajan as well as their biological activities that can be applied for cosmetic applications. In addition, the botanical data including taxonomic description, flowering season, distribution, synonyms and traditional uses are illustrated, so as to provide an overview of pigeon pea’s cosmetic/cosmeceutical potentials.
Susceptibility of Blood Orange Cultivars to Chilling Injury Based on Antioxidant System and Physiological and Biochemical Responses at Different Storage Temperatures
Authors: Habibi Fariborz , Ramezanian Asghar , Guillén Fabián , Martínez-Romero Domingo , Serrano María , Valero Daniel
Published: November 2020

Susceptibility of four blood orange cultivars (‘Moro’, ‘Tarocco’, ‘Sanguinello’ and ‘Sanguine’) to chilling injury (CI) was studied. Antioxidant enzymes as well as physiological and biochemical changes were measured monthly at 2 and 5 °C plus 2 days at 20 °C for shelf life. At 2 °C, CI symptoms were higher than at 5 °C, and ‘Moro’ and ‘Tarocco’ had significantly higher CI than ‘Sanguinello’ and ‘Sanguine’. ‘Moro’ and ‘Tarocco’ had the highest electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and polyphenol oxidase activity and lower phenylalanine ammonia-lyase compared with ‘Sanguinello’ and ‘Sanguine’. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed that ‘Moro’ and ‘Tarocco’ showed severe fractures in the flavedo due to CI. ‘Sanguinello’ and ‘Sanguine’ were more tolerant to CI due to an increase of catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, which could prevent the loss of membrane integrity and alleviate CI symptoms. Hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) for cultivars and temperatures revealed four main clusters. The first cluster included ‘Moro’ and ‘Tarocco’ at 2 °C, and the second cluster included ‘Moro’ and ‘Tarocco’ at 5 °C. The third cluster involved ‘Sanguinello’ and ‘Sanguine’ at 2 °C, and the fourth cluster included ‘Sanguinello’ and ‘Sanguine’ at 5 °C. The order of susceptibility of cultivars to CI was ‘Moro’ > ‘Tarocco’ > ‘Sanguine’ > ‘Sanguinello’.
Tailoring the Functional Potential of Red Beet Purées by Inoculation with Lactic Acid Bacteria and Drying
Authors: Mocanu Gabriel-Dănuț , Chirilă Ana Cosmina , Vasile Aida Mihaela , Andronoiu Doina Georgeta , Nistor Oana-Viorela , Barbu Vasilica , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: November 2020

This study was focused on a comparative analysis of two drying methods, such as convective and infrared drying, on the red beetroot purées with lactic acid bacteria, as a strategy for tailoring the health benefits of the selected plant. For both varieties, the total betalain contents varied from 13.95 ± 0.14 mg/g dry weight in Beta vulgaris var. cylindra when compared with 11.09 ± 0.03 mg/g dry weight in Beta vulgaris var. vulgaris, whereas significant differences were found in total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Significant drying induced changes were found in selected bioactives, in terms of total betalains, flavonoids, and polyphenols, which influenced the antioxidant activities of the purées, structure, and color parameters. In general, infrared technology was more protective, leading to an increase of 20% in flavonoids content. One logarithmic decrease in cell viability was observed in all powders samples. After the in vitro digestion, the betalains decreased, in both gastric and intestinal simulated juices, with a more pronounced profile in infrared processed purées. Textural and rheological analysis of the dried purées highlighted that the infrared drying is milder compared to the conventional one, allowing us to obtain powders with enhanced functional properties, in terms of bioactives content, cell viability, color, and structural and rheological behavior.
Chemical Characterization, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Goji Berries Cultivated in Serbia
Authors: Ilić Tijana , Dodevska Margarita , Marčetić Mirjana , Božić Dragana , Kodranov Igor , Vidović Bojana
Published: November 2020

Since the fruits of Lycium L. species (Fructus lycii, goji berries) are promoted as a “superfood” with plenty of health benefits, there is extensive research interest in their nutritional and phytochemical composition. In the present study, the nutritional value, minerals, fatty acid composition, and bioactive compounds of L. barbarum L., red, yellow, and black goji berry (L. ruthenicum Murray.) cultivated in Serbia were investigated. Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of their methanol extracts were assessed. Red goji berry had the highest content of fats, dietary fiber, iron, total carotenoids, and 2-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-l-ascorbic acid (AA-2βG). The yellow goji berry extract showed the highest level of flavonoids and the most prominent antimicrobial (especially against Gram-negative bacteria) properties. The highest total phenolic content and the most potent antioxidant activity were observed for the extract of black goji berry. Therefore, all goji berries could be a valuable source of bioactive compounds in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
Cementitious Composites with High Compaction Potential: Modeling and Calibration
Authors: Vu Giao , Iskhakov Tagir , Timothy Jithender , Schulte-Schrepping Christoph , Breitenbücher Rolf , Meschke Günther
Published: November 2020

There is an increasing need for the development of novel technologies for tunnel construction in difficult geological conditions to protect segmental linings from unexpected large deformations. In the context of mechanized tunneling, one method to increase the damage tolerance of tunnel linings in such conditions is the integration of a compressible two-component grout for the annular gap between the segmental linings and the deformable ground. In this regard, expanded polystyrene (EPS) lightweight concrete/mortar has received increasing interest as a potential “candidate material” for the aforementioned application. In particular, the behavior of the EPS lightweight composites can be customized by modifying their pore structure to accommodate deformations due to specific geological conditions such as squeezing rocks. To this end, novel compressible cementitious EPS-based composite materials with high compaction potential have been developed. Specimens prepared from these composites have been subjected to compressive loads with and without lateral confinement. Based on these experimental data a computational model based on the Discrete Element Method (DEM) has been calibrated and validated. The proposed calibration procedure allows for modeling and prognosis of a wide variety of composite materials with a high compaction potential. The calibration procedure is characterized by the identification of physically quantifiable parameters and the use of phenomenological submodels. Model prognoses show excellent agreement with new experimental measurements that were not incorporated in the calibration procedure.
Design and Performance of Polyurethane Elastomers Composed with Different Soft Segments
Authors: Jin Xin , Guo Naisheng , You Zhanping , Tan Yiqiu
Published: November 2020

Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPUs) are widely used in a variety of applications as a result of flexible and superior performance. However, few scholars pay close attention on the design and synthesis of TPUs through the self-determined laboratory process, especially on definite of chemical structures and upon the influence on properties. To investigate the properties of synthesized modifier based on chemical structure, firstly each kind of unknown structure and composition ratio of TPUs was determined by using a new method. Furthermore, the thermal characteristics and mechanical properties of modifiers were exposed by thermal characteristics and mechanics performance tests. The experimental results indicate that TPUs for use as an asphalt modifier can successfully be synthesized with the aid of semi-prepolymer method. The linear backbone structure of TPUs with different hard segment contents were determined by micro test methods. The polyester-based TPUs had thermal behavior better than the polyether-based TPUs; conversely, the low temperature performance of polyether-based TPUs was superior. Most importantly, it was found that the relative molecular mass of TPUs exhibited a weak effect on the mechanical properties, whereas the crystallinity of hard segment showed a significant influence on the properties of TPUs.
Complexation with Random Methyl-β-Cyclodextrin and (2-Hydroxypropyl)-β-Cyclodextrin Promotes Chrysin Effect and Potential for Liver Fibrosis Therapy
Authors: Ignat Simona-Rebeca , Dinescu Sorina , Váradi Judit , Fenyvesi Ferenc , Nguyen Thi Le Phuong , Ciceu Alina , Hermenean Anca , Costache Marieta
Published: November 2020

Liver fibrosis results from chronic liver injury and is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix in excess driven by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation. Chrysin (CHR) is a natural flavonoid that is limited by its low solubility to exert its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the biocompatibility of CHR complexes with two cyclodextrins (CDs)-(2-hydroxypropyl)-β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD) and random methyl-β-cyclodextrin (RAMEB), and their potential to induce anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects. Biocompatibility of the complexes was evaluated on Huh7 and LX2 cell lines: MTT and Live/Dead tests indicated the cell viability and an LDH test showed the cytotoxicity. Immunohistochemical staining of Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) nuclear translocation was performed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of the complexes. Oxygen Radical Absorbance assay, Superoxide Dismutase activity and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) assays indicated the antioxidant properties of the chrysin complexes. Finally, the complexes’ anti-fibrotic potential was evaluated at the protein and gene level of α-sma. In HSCs, CDs induced higher cytotoxicity correlated with lower cell viability than CHR–CD. The 1:1 CHR–RAMEB pretreatment avoided p65 translocation. The 1:2 CHR–RAMEB complex increased ORAC values, improved SOD activity and produced the highest stimulation of GPx activity. CHR–RAMEB reduced α-sma expression at lower concentration than CHR–HPBCD, proving to be more efficient. In conclusion, both CHR–CD complexes proved to be biocompatible, but CHR–RAMEB showed improved anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects that could recommend its further use in liver fibrosis treatment.
Effect of Carbonation on the Water Resistance of Steel Slag—Magnesium Oxysulfate (MOS) Cement Blends
Authors: Hu Zhiqi , Guan Yan , Chang Jun , Bi Wanli , Zhang Tingting
Published: November 2020

Magnesium oxysulfate (MOS) cement has the advantages of lightweightedness, high strength, and low thermal conductivity, but the utilization of MOS cement is limited due to low water resistance. This paper studied the influence of steel slag and CO2 treatment on the compressive strength and water resistance of MOS cement. The hydration products and microstructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis–differential scanning calorimetry (TG–DSC), scanning electron spectroscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed that the strength of MOS cement reached 89.7 MPa with steel slag and CO2 treatment; the water-resistance coefficients of the control and samples containing 10%, 20%, and 30% reached 0.91, 0.81, 1.01, and 1.08 MPa, respectively. The improvement in the strength and water resistance coefficients was because of carbonation that accelerated the hydration of C2S in the steel slag and formed a Ca–Mg–C amorphous substance. The carbonation products contributed to better water stability and denser matrix denser while inhibiting the hydration of MgO, which led to improving the water resistance of the sample.
New Findings in the Field of Thermal Drilling of Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Sobotova Lydia , Badida Miroslav , Moravec Marek , Badidova Anna , Maslejova Alica
Published: November 2020

This paper explores the joining of materials by a new progressive method of thermal drilling. Many types of joints are utilized in industrial production, especially in the automotive industry, which requires the joining of different types of materials with different thicknesses. For these needs, it will be appropriate to apply the joining method of thermal drilling technology. The used material, its mechanical properties, and the preparation of the joint by assembly and disassembly operations play an equally important role. By using new friction technologies, we can reduce production time, increase joint quality, offer automation in certain types of operations, save economic costs, and protect the environment. In this contribution, the authors present the results of their scientific research work focused on an investigation, comparison and testing of thermal drilling effects on the behavior of aluminum alloys (AlMgSi). The holes, collars and bushings formed by the drilling method were subjected to visual shape evaluation. Based on the evaluation of the samples, the quality of the evaluated joints was assessed. The best shape and strength properties at higher speeds of the drilling machine were obtained at 3400 rpm. The results of the methods of macroscopy and microscopy investigations, as well as the results of the methods of scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDS), are presented in this contribution.
Synthesis and Characterization of Hybrid Metal Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Membrane for Efficient H2/CO2 Gas Separation
Authors: Chang Po-Hsueh , Lee Yuan-Tse , Peng Cheng-Hsiung
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we propose mixed metal ions in the node of the zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) structure. The hybrid metal ZIF is formed for the gas separation of hydrogen and carbon dioxide. In the first stage, the nanoparticles were prepared as a coating on a substrate, and acting as secondary growing nuclei. The hybrid metal ZIF structures were characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms determined surface area, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the microstructure and surface morphology. The hybrid metal ZIF-8-67 powder had the largest surface area (1260.40 m2 g−1), and the nanoparticles (100 nm) could be fully dense-coated on the substrate to benefit the subsequent membrane growth. In the second stage, we prepared the hybrid metal ZIF-8-67 membrane on the pre-seeding substrate with mixed metal nanoparticles of cobalt and zinc, by the microwave hydrothermal method. Cobalt ions were identified in the tetrahedral coordination through UV–Vis, and the membrane structure and morphology were determined by XRD and SEM. Finally, a gas permeation analyzer (GPA) was used to determine the gas separation performance of the hybrid metal ZIF-8-67 membrane. We successfully introduced zinc ions and cobalt ions into the ZIF structure, where cobalt had a strong interaction with CO2. Therefore, GPA analysis showed an excellent H2/CO2 separation factor due to lower CO2 permeability. The CO2 permeance was ~0.65 × 10−8 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1, and the separation factors for H2/CO2 and H2/N2 were 9.2 and 2.9, respectively. Our results demonstrate that the hybrid metal ZIF-8-67 membrane has a superior H2/CO2 separation factor, which can be attributed to its very high specific surface area and structure. Based on the above, hybrid metal ZIF-8-67 membranes are expected to be applied in hydrogen or carbon dioxide gas separation and purification.
Biaryl Sulfonamides Based on the 2-Azabicycloalkane Skeleton—Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Iwan Dominika , Kamińska Karolina , Wojaczyńska Elżbieta , Psurski Mateusz , Wietrzyk Joanna , Daszkiewicz Marek
Published: November 2020

In a search for new, selective antitumor agents, we prepared a series of sulfonamides built on bicyclic scaffolds of 2-azabicyclo(2.2.1)heptane and 2-azabicyclo(3.2.1)octane. To this end, aza-Diels–Alder cycloadducts were converted into amines bearing 2-azanorbornane or a bridged azepane skeleton; their treatment with sulfonyl chlorides containing biaryl moieties led to the title compounds. The study of antiproliferative activity of the new agents showed that some of them inhibited the growth of chosen cell lines with the IC50 values comparable with cisplatin, and some derivatives were found considerably less toxic for nonmalignant cells.
Series Expansion and Fourth-Order Global Padé Approximation for a Rough Heston Solution
Authors: Jeng Siow Woon , Kilicman Adem
Published: November 2020

The rough Heston model has recently been shown to be extremely consistent with the observed empirical data in the financial market. However, the shortcoming of the model is that the conventional numerical method to compute option prices under it requires great computational effort due to the presence of the fractional Riccati equation in its characteristic function. In this study, we contribute by providing an efficient method while still retaining the quality of the solution under varying Hurst parameter for the fractional Riccati equations in two ways. First, we show that under the Laplace–Adomian-decomposition method, the infinite series expansion of the fractional Riccati equation’s solution corresponds to the existing expansion method from previous work for at least up to the fifth order. Then, we show that the fourth-order Padé approximants can be used to construct an extremely accurate global approximation to the fractional Riccati equation in an unexpected way. The pointwise approximation error of the global Padé approximation to the fractional Riccati equation is also provided. Unlike the existing work of third-order global Padé approximation to the fractional Riccati equation, our work extends the availability of Hurst parameter range without incurring huge errors. Finally, numerical comparisons were conducted to verify that our methods are indeed accurate and better than the existing method for computing both the fractional Riccati equation’s solution and option prices under the rough Heston model.