bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue Segmentation from Whole-Slide Images Using Lightweight Neural Networks
Authors: Frank Steven
Published: March 2022

· Purpose: pathology slides of malignancies are segmented using lightweight convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that may be deployed on mobile devices. · Approach: large whole-slide images are preprocessed to make CNN analysis tractable and also to exclude regions unlikely to be diagnostically relevant. In a training phase, labeled whole-slide histopathology images are first downsampled and decomposed into square tiles. Tiles corresponding to diseased regions are analyzed to determine boundary values of a visual criterion, image entropy. A lightweight CNN is then trained to distinguish tiles of diseased and non-diseased tissue, and if more than one disease type is present, to discriminate among these as well. A segmentation is generated by downsampling and tiling a candidate image, and retaining only those tiles with values of the visual criterion falling within the previously established extrema. The sifted tiles, which now exclude much of the non-diseased image content, are efficiently and accurately classified by the trained CNN. Tiles classified as diseased tissue -- or in the case of multiple possible subtypes, as the dominant subtype in the tile set -- are combined, either as a simple union or at a pixel level, to produce a segmentation mask or map. · Results and conclusion: this approach was applied successfully to two very different datasets of large whole-slide images, one (PAIP2020) involving multiple subtypes of colorectal cancer and the other (CAMELYON16) single-type breast-cancer metastases. Scored using standard similarity metrics, the segmentations exhibited notably high recall, even when tiles were large relative to tumor features, and outperformed more complex models typifying the state of the art.
Effect of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Progression to Glaucoma Surgery in Patients Followed Up in a Retina Unit
Authors: Gedik Birumut , Erol Muhammet Kazim , Duman Fulya , Dogan Berna , Yavuz Sibel , Suren Elcin , Akidan Melih , Turkoglu Elif Betül
Published: March 2022

IntroductionIn this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 on progression to glaucoma surgery in patients followed up at the retina unit of the Ophthalmology Outpatient Clinic of Health Sciences University Antalya Training and Research Hospital.MethodsThe patients who were followed up at the retina unit of our hospital. The patients were divided into four groups. This study was retrospective.Results The ratio of the number of patients who underwent glaucoma surgery to the number of those presenting to the retina unit was found to be statistically significantly increased in Group 4 compared to the remaining three groups (p<0.0001 for all). The ratio of the number of patients who were followed up in the retina unit and underwent surgery due to neovascular or silicone oil-induced glaucoma to the total number of patients who presented to the retina unit was statistically significantly increased in Group 4 compared to Groups 1 and 2 (p=0.001 for both). ConclusionThis study is the first to examine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on progression to glaucoma surgery in patients followed up at the retina unit. We found an increase in the number of patients that required surgery for neovascular or silicone oil-induced glaucoma compared to previous years as a result of not attending regular follow-up at the retina unit due to COVID-19. We consider that inability to apply timely treatments due to the pandemic conditions are effective in this situation.
Optimal utilization of groundwater resources and artificial recharge system of Shahriar Plain aquifer, Iran
Authors: Salehi-Shafa Nima , Babazadeh Hossein , Aghayari Fayyaz , Saremi Ali
Published: March 2022

Developments in agriculture, industry, population growth and climate change lead to increased exploitation of groundwater resources and cause qualitative and quantitative problems in aquifers. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to investigate the impact of optimal groundwater utilization and artificial recharge systems on the Shahriar Plain aquifer. In our study, a multi-objective modeling platform was developed that included two independent simulator-optimizer models. In the first model, the artificial neural network (ANN) was used to simulate the changes of groundwater level (GWL) and its quality as a function of the TDS index in the Shahriar Plain aquifer. The regression was then used to predict groundwater quality. Finally, the multi-objective genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) was used to optimize groundwater resources harvesting. The second model simulated the flood storage volume in the reservoirs of the artificial recharge system (ARS) using ANN and then optimized utilization of the artificial recharge system using (NSGA-II). The results of the first model showed that the optimal volume of water withdrawn from the aquifer and the optimal TDS value of the aquifer decreased by 29 and 18%, respectively, while the changes of the optimal groundwater level increased by 28 m. Furthermore, based on the second model results, the total volume of optimal recharge will increase by 119% in the studied period due to the artificial recharge system, followed by a 14% increase in the changes of the optimal groundwater level. Overall, it can be concluded that the multi-objective modeling platform method can support multiple factors simultaneously.
Factors influencing adherence to antiretroviral therapy from the experience of people living with HIV and their healthcare providers in Sierra Leone: A qualitative study
Authors: Lahai Michael , Theobald Sally , Wurie Haja R. , Lakoh Sulaiman , Samai Mohamed , Erah Patrick O. , Raven Joanna
Published: March 2022

Background: Antiretroviral therapy is the main drug for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus, slow disease progression, and reduce the spread of infection. HIV treatment is also known to require high level of adherence of over 90% to achieve good treatment outcomes and viral load suppression. In Sierra Leone, it is estimated that about 70% of PLHIV are non-adherent in their first year of treatment. Understanding the reasons behind this high-rate of non-adherence is critical for the development of strategies to improve adherence. This study identifies the barriers and facilitators influencing adherence to antiretroviral treatment in Sierra Leone.Methods: A qualitative study design using in depth interviews was conducted in two districts in Sierra Leone – Freetown and Bo. In-depth interviews were conducted with 4 health care workers and 16 people living with HIV.Results: Several facilitators and barriers to Antiretroviral therapy(ART) adherence at the personal, community, and health system levels were identified. The facilitating factors included perceived benefits of ART, family support, having a treatment partner, receiving free ART medicines and belonging to peer support groups. The barriers included denial and non-disclosure of HIV status, frequency of medication, use of traditional medicine, lack of money for food and transport, stigma and discrimination, work barriers, lack of medicines and test kits, limited health workers and long distance to clinics. Conclusions: The key emerging themes arising from different health system level in this study include Support from families, treatment partners and the need for peer support groups. Understanding the facilitators and barriers to antiretroviral therapy identified in this study can improve adherence and provide relevant information for more responsive and equitable program implementation in low and middle-income countries. There is the need for implementing adherence augmentation programs with implementation of activities that will improve community knowledge for prevention and reduction of stigma and the need for integrating HIV treatment services close to communities.
The Presence of Left Ventricular False Tendons is Not Associated with Increased Arrhythmogenic Risk in Highly Active Subjects.
Authors: de Sande Danny AJP van , Gorsel Bart van , Cramer Maarten J , Jørstad Harald T , Rienks Rienk
Published: March 2022

Background
Left ventricular false tendons (LVFTs) are common. There is conflicting evidence whether LVFTs have clinically important electrophysiological effects. The aim of this study was to investigate, in a highly active population: 1) the prevalence of LVFTs, 2) the association between LVFTs and abnormalities on the resting 12-lead-electrocardiograms (ECG) and 3) the association of LVFTs with ventricular arrhythmias.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was performed using data from military personnel in active service who were referred to the Cardiology Department of the Central Military Hospital in Utrecht, The Netherlands, in 2017. Data of resting 12-lead-electrocardiography, transthoracic echocardiography, ambulatory ECG monitoring, exercise testing, the prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and relevant clinical data were obtained from the electronic patient data charts.
Results
In total, 125 subjects were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of LVFTs was 40% and the they were predominantly located from the mid-IVS top the apical segment of the LV (type 4). Non-significant T-Wave Abnormalities (NS-TWA) were significantly more prevalent in subjects with LVFTs and were predominantly localized in the lateral leads. There was no increased risk of any arrhythmia. Follow-up data of 3.2 years showed no difference in the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events.
Conclusion
In this highly active group subjects, the presence of an LVFT did not yield an increased arrhythmogenic risk compared to subjects without a LVFT.
Performance Comparison of the Railway Stations: A Case of North-South of the Addis Ababa Light Rail Transit, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Solihu Habeeb , Sekasi Jackson , Ray Pradip Kumar
Published: March 2022

Aside providing services and infrastructure for the mobility of people and goods, sustainable transport is a cross-cutting accelerator, which can fast-track progress towards other crucial goals such as SDGs 1, 4, 5, and 13; as such it is imperative in achieving 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This, therefore, serves as impetus for this study. This study administered about two hundred and forty (240) questionnaires to the railway transportation passengers and was analyzed to compare the performances of the Railway Stations along the North-South Axis of the Addis Ababa Light Rail Transit (AA-LRT). Six (6) out of seventeen (17) stations along this axis were considered for this study not only because they comprise terminal stations but also they are situated in highly populated areas with high demand potential. The stations were categorized and the comparison was based on the passengers’ perspectives on the selected performance indicators. Also, because the data are dichotomous, hence, Binary Logistic Regression Model was used to model a relationship equation between the dependent variable (Level of Performance) and the performance indicators (predictors). The selected stations were ranked according to their performances while conclusions and recommendations were suggested to further enhance the stations' performances for customers’ satisfaction. Finally, adopting the methodology in this study for investigating the performances of the railway stations elsewhere in the world is recommended.
Study on the Effect of the Copper Tailing Substrate with Different Treatments on the Growth of Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb)
Authors: Xue Jinchun , Wang Weiwei , HE MIN , You Jiajia , Han Huaqin
Published: March 2022

The copper sulphide mining process would produce a large number of copper tailings that can be treated with different substrates so as to act as guest soil in the ecological reclamation of the mine. Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb) is a fast-growing herbal medicinal plant with a large biomass and significant adaptability that is often used as pioneer plant in early mining soil reclamation. In order to reveal the influence of different copper tailing treatment substrates on plant growth, in this experiment, tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb) was planted under potted conditions for the purpose of exploring the effect of different exogenous substrates such as conditioning agents, sulfurized modified straw, effective microorganisms (EM), and High-density Sludge (HDS) sediment on tall fescue height, biomass, chlorophyll, catalase (CAT) activity and Cu2+ transport under copper tailings substrate. Then, the results showed that the combined application of different exogenous substrates (conditioning agents, EM, sulfurized modified straw and HDS sediment) reduced the pH of the copper tailing substrate to varying degrees, with a decrease of 5%-21%. Besides, compared with the control group and other treatments, the combined treatment of conditioning agents, sulfurized modified straw, and EM has a significant impact on the biomass, plant height, chlorophyll content, CAT activity and other physiological indicators of tall fescue and can effectively reduce Cu2+ that is toxic to tall fescue in copper tail sand.
Solution Casted Cellulose Acetate films. Influence of Surface Substrate and Humidity on Wettability, Morphology and Optical Properties
Authors: Kramar Ana , Ortega Irene Rodríguez , González-Gaitano Gustavo , González-Benito Javier
Published: March 2022

Variations on the processing conditions of conventional methods for polymeric film preparation may allow tuning certain properties of film. Different casting surfaces and humidity during casting are presented in this work, as variables to be considered for cellulose acetate film preparation (CA). Casting surfaces, borosilicate glass, soda-lime glass and Teflon (PTFE) dish are used and their influence on various properties of CA films is assessed. Soda-lime glass was coated with chlorotrimethylsilane because CA is strongly adhered to the neat surface during drying, making the film detachment impossible. The surfaces of glass dishes are smooth, while PTFE surface has a distinctive pattern, which is adopted by casted films upon drying. The resulting patterned morphology of the films is studied using optical profilometry. Patterned films are translucent while smooth surface films are transparent. Apart from the effect of different surface types, humidity influence on CA films is evaluated in terms of conditions during the evaporation of solvent from solution (35 %, 55 % and 75 % humidity). The increase of the humidity produces smoother surfaces and higher film crystallinity compared to films casted in open air; however, wettability of films does not seem to be influenced by this variable, except for a higher hydrophobicity in the patterned films. Due to the specific morphology of the patterned films, change in opacity upon wetting is detected, going from translucent to transparent, while removal of water from the surface restores the translucency. This approach can be used for preparation of patterned films for food packaging application which can serve as humidity sensor.
Development of a Hybrid Nanoscaffold by Selenium Nanoparticles and Lysozyme Amyloid Fibrils with Improved Conductivity and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Anari Fatemeh , Moghaddam Tahereh Tohidi , Daraei Bahram
Published: March 2022

Today, nanoparticles have promised a variety of applications in conjugation with biomolecules. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) possess promising potency in a wide range of biomedicine applications, and amyloid fibrils with well-known physicochemical stability and ability to mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) have been highlighted with possible use in the design of high-yield materials. To exploit the dual properties of nano and bio components in biomedical applications, this research has focused on the development of a nanohybrid system through assembling SeNPs on lysozyme amyloid fibrils. Spectroscopic and microscopic techniques including UV-vis, Far-UV Circular Dichroism (CD) spectropolarimetry, Thioflavin T (ThT) assay, and Transmission Electron microscopy were used to characterize the formation of lysozyme amyloid fibrils, selenium nanoparticles, and their assemblies on the biotemplate. Antibacterial activity of the individual components, as well as the nanohybrid system, was determined against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using the minimum inhibitory concentration method. The nanohybrid system showed enhanced antibacterial activity upon the interaction of SeNPs with amyloid fibrils. Moreover, a study on the electronic behavior of the hybrid nanoscaffold by Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed improved conductivity. The results suggest that the combination of nanoparticles with amyloid fibrils paves the way for the development of versatile nanoscaffolds with improved properties in regenerative medicine.
A secondary metabolites produced by Streptomyces ssp. XY-R31 suppresses LPS-induced inflammatory responses through NF-κB, MAPKs, and HO-1 Pathways in RAW264.7 cells
Authors: Xu Ying , Yu Yang-yang , Zheng Si-man , Fang Ran
Published: March 2022

Inflammation response is a complex physiological process and suppression of inflammation activated in macrophages induced by LPS is an important target for treatment of various chronic diseases. A crude extract produced by Streptomyces ssp. (R31 crude extract) which was isolated from a mangrove sediment showed a significant inhibitory effect in LPS-stimulated inflammatory response. In this study, R31 crude extract decreased the NO production dose-dependently. The release of IL-6 and IL-10 in macrophages were reduced upon pretreatment of R31 crude extract. In addition, R31 crude extract treatment inhibited the translocation of NF-κB and NFAT into the nucleus and the phosphorylation of MAPKs as well as AKT. On the other hand, R31 crude extract induced HO-1 expression in LPS-stimulated macrophage. Collectively, these findings indicate that R31 crude extract exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect and is a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Telegenetics in Rural Appalachia: Implementation Experiences and Barriers to Effective Clinical Care for Populations Experiencing Health Disparity
Authors: Falah Nadia , Mallow Jennifer , Kelly Kimberly M.
Published: March 2022

Background: Telegenetics is the provision of genetics services at a distance via telecommunication and information technologies. While telegenetics promises to increase access to underserved populations with rare diseases, providers must overcome additional challenges to reach remote and marginalized communities with telegenetics care provision. Method: We describe a series of case vignettes related to clinical care and barriers that were observed after using telegenetics in rural Appalachia. This geo-politically defined region is known for health disparities such as lower education levels, higher poverty levels, and greater healthcare shortage areas than the United States as a whole. Results: Although telegenetics improves access to care, the barriers experienced included (1) the digital divide in access to broadband, (2) telegenetics counseling in geriatric patients with limited computer literacy, (3) comorbidities that are common in the region, and (4) patients’ adherence to telegenetics services. Conclusion: These case studies emphasize the need for intervention studies to address implementation of telegenetics in populations who experience health disparities. In addition, future attention should also focus on administrative system evaluation and cost to reduce health disparities in disadvantaged groups.
Association study for drought tolerance of flint maize inbred lines using SSR markers
Authors: SA Kyu Jin , Park Hyun , Fu Zhenyu , Jang So Jung , Lee Ju Kyong
Published: March 2022

This study assessed the genetic and phenotypic variation of 12 flint maize inbred lines and performed association analysis of 11 drought-related traits using 360 simple sequence repeats (SSRs), detecting 1,604 alleles, with an average of 4.4 alleles per locus. The average values of gene diversity (GD) and polymorphism information content (PIC) were 0.648 and 0.598, respectively. In principal component analysis (PCA), shoot fresh weight (SFW), shoot dry weight (SDW), stem weight (SW), leaf weight (LW), root fresh weight (RFW), root dry weight (RDW), and leaf area (LA) traits contributed greatly to the PIC. Association analysis was performed using a general linear model with a Q-matrix (Q GLM) and a mixed linear model with Q and K-matrices (Q + K MLM). Twelve SSR markers for drought tolerance trait were detected by Q GLM, and all maize inbred lines were clearly divided into two groups in accordance with their drought tolerance. Duplicated significant marker-trait associations (SMTAs) between Q GLM and Q + K MLM identified eight marker-trait associations involving four SSR markers that were associated with the traits of SW, SFW, RFW, and RDW with a significant level of P < 0.05. The umc1175 and umc2092 were associated with SW and SFW; umc1503 was associated with RFW, SFW, and SW; and umc2341 was associated with RDW. The detection of loci associated with drought-related traits in this study may provide better opportunities to improve maize drought tolerance by marker-assisted selection (MAS). These results will be useful for breeders in producing tolerant varieties as well as markers for using MAS in maize breeding programs.
Co-application of chelate GLDA and French marigold for remediation of Cd contaminated farmlands
Authors: Li Hongchuan , Jin Rui , Xu Zhaowen , Hu Hongxiang , Kalkhajeh Yusef Kianpoor , Zhao Yingying , Zhan Linchuan
Published: March 2022

The present study, via a 180-days field trial, investigated the potential of chelate tetrasodium glutamate diacetate (GLDA) for the remediation of cadmium (Cd)-contaminated farmlands by French marigold. To do so, five GLDA treatments (e.g., 0, 292.5, 585, 1170, and 2340 kg hm− 2) were practiced. For each treatment, the total GLDA was divided into two applications with 15 day intervals (0.25, 0.47, and 0.61 mg·kg− 1) under French marigold plantation. Compared with the control, our results showed that GLDA application significantly increased the biomass of aerial parts of French marigold by 21.9% (p < 0.05). Likewise, Cd content in aboveground and underground parts of French marigold increased by 94.7% and 60.5%, respectively, compared with the control (p < 0.05). GLDA application caused significant increases in Cd accumulations in cell soluble fraction and cell wall by 290% and 123%, respectively (p < 0.05); Soil pH and DTPA-Cd content increased with the increase of total application of GLDA. Co-application of GLDA (2340 kg hm− 2) and French marigold reduced the total soil Cd content by 12.87% compared with the soil background. Altogether, our findings conclude on the efficacy of GLDA application for the remediation of Cd contaminated farmlands under French marigold cultivation.
EEG-based Analysis of Various Sensory Stimulation Effects to Reduce Visually Induced Motion Sickness in Virtual Reality
Authors: Yeo Sang Seok , Kwon Jung Won , Park Seo Yoon
Published: March 2022

The use of virtual reality (VR) is frequently accompanied by motion sickness, and approaches for preventing it are not yet well established. We explored the effects of synchronized presentations of sound and motion on visually induced motion sickness (VIMS) in order to reduce VIMS. A total of 25 participants bike for 5 minutes with or without sound and motion synchronization presented on a head-mounted display. As a result, the VIMS scores measured by the fast motion sickness scale and simulator sickness questionnaire were significantly lower in the participants who experienced the riding scene with sound and motion than those who experienced the riding scene with sound only, motion only, or neither. Furthermore, analysis of the EEG signal showed that the higher the VIMS, the significant increase in alpha and theta waves in the parietal and occipital lobes. Therefore, we demonstrate that the simultaneous presentation of sound and motion, closely associated with synchronous and visual flow speed, is effective in reducing VIMS while experiencing simulated bike riding in a VR environment.
Identification of Influencing Factors on OHS in Manufacturing Companies Using a Grounded Theory
Authors: Ghahramani Abolfazl , Taghizadeh Elias , Mohebbi Iraj
Published: March 2022

Background
Over the last few decades, organizations' productivity and occupational health and safety (OHS) performance have improved as a result of the adoption of innovative manufacturing technologies and new management approaches. Despite these improvements, OHS performance in developing nations remains unsatisfactory, and further research is needed to ascertain the factors that influence OHS performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors influencing OHS in Iranian manufacturing companies.
Methods
Twelve informants, including OHS inspectors and managers, were interviewed individually for this qualitative study. The interviews were semi-structured, and the data were analyzed using the grounded theory method.
Results
Management commitment, safety culture, OHS training, OHS regulations, economic and political issues, social factors, as well as personal and occupational factors have all been identified.
Conclusion
The findings emphasize the importance of identifying OHS influencing factors in order to improve manufacturing firms' OHS status. Given the limited financial resources available to companies, government assistance and effective OHS training may help in promoting OHS status. Efforts to improve safety culture and to enforce OHS regulations may have an effect on a company's OHS status.
Radiographic and clinical outcomes of slope and varus correction anterior closing wedge tibial osteotomy for primary anterior cruciate ligament injuries with steep posterior tibial slope, varus knee deformity, and medial meniscal posterior root tears
Authors: Liu Juncai , zhou Peng , Deng Xiangtian , Jiang Hao , Li Lingzhi , Li Zhong
Published: March 2022

Background
previous biomechanical studies have investigated the influence of coronal and sagittal correction high tibial osteotomy in ACL-reconstructed knees. However, no studies have reported its clinical application. Our objective was to evaluate the radiological and clinical results after simultaneous slope and varus correction anterior closing wedge tibial osteotomy (ACWTO) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in patients with ACL deficiency combined with steep posterior tibial slope (PTS), varus deformity, and medial meniscal posterior root tear (MMPRT).
Methods
Between January 2018 and December 2021, 5 patients with ACL injuries who had steep PTS, varus deformity, and concomitant MMPRT underwent slope and varus correction ACWTO combined with primary ACLR. The mean follow-up duration was 26.2 months. Preoperative and postoperative radiological assessments included the degree of the femoral tibial angle (FTA), PTS, progression of medial osteoarthritis. For clinical outcomes, we evaluated KT-1000 side-to-side difference, pivot-shift test, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score and Tegner activity score preoperatively and at the last follow-up.
Results
The mean PTS was 17.0° (range, 16°-19°) preoperatively and 7.8° (range, 6°-9°) postoperatively (P ༜0.01). The mean FTA was 5.6° (range, 5°-7°) preoperatively and − 0.6°(range, -2°-0°) postoperatively (P ༜ 0.01). According to the Kellgren-Lawrence classification, 4 patients was grade 1, and 1 patient was grade 2 at the last follow-up. All patients showed statistically significant improvements in knee stability (pre- vs postoperatively: mean side-to-side difference, 9.2 mm vs 0.6mm; and pivot-shift test, 2 grade I and 3 grade II vs 5 grade 0). All patients showed statistically significant improvements in function (pre- vs postoperatively: mean IKDC score, 48.8 vs 89.4; mean Lysholm score, 48.2 vs 93.0; and Tegner activity score, 4.0 vs 6.8). Moreover, no graft rerupture were found at the last follow-up.
Conclusion
Slope and varus correction ACWTO combined with primary ACLR is a safe and effective procedure to improve knee stability and function in patients with ACL tear, steep PTS, varus knee deformity, and MMPRT.
Surface Plasmonic Nano Grating for Improved the Responses of GaAs PIN photodetectors
Authors: AbdElaziz Nada , yousif Bedir Bedir , AbdElhalim Eman , Gaballah Waleed , Samra Ahmed
Published: March 2022

The photonics world is becoming increasingly interested in plasmonic photodetectors. The field of plasmonics allows light to be dedicated into small spaces in metallic structures, and this property has the ability to simulate extra improvements in performance of photodetectors. In this work it is presented gold (Au) and Aluminum (Al) surface plasmon polariton (SPP) GaAs PIN photodetector achieved higher internal quantum efficiency (IQE), as the IQE with Au and Al SPP rectangle grating is 95.01%, while the IQE with Au SPP rectangle grating is 85%, which indicates an improvement of 10.01%. It is also presented nanograting various shapes such as triangular, ellipse, bowtie and circle, and investigate its impact on improving the performance of the proposed photodetector. The internal quantum efficiency is improved to 98.48% with a total enhancement IQE of 13.48%. Moreover, output current and responsivity are improved. This remarkable enhancement is achieved with bowtie grating as compared to other shapes and previous published papers.
Weight gain of battery and hydrogen Zero Emission Vehicles over internal combustion vehicles: consequential increases in road wear.
Authors: Low John McKenzie , Haszeldine Stuart , Harrison Gareth
Published: March 2022

In order to meet global climate targets, it will be essential to decarbonise transport along with emissions sources. For road transport, the two currently available technologies are battery electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles. Battery vehicles are more established than hydrogen, although both are capable of delivering the emissions reduction required.However, battery electric vehicles are usually considerably heavier than the equivalent hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, which are in turn slightly heavier than existing internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles; a heavier vehicle will have a bigger impact on road wear, and associated maintenance and particulate emissions.Here we examine for the first time one impact and hidden cost, associated with the increased weight of zero emissions vehicles, not commonly addressed in energy research – the additional wear and tear on roads, associated with road maintenance cost and particulate emissions. We examine these in three different future scenarios of all battery vehicles, all hydrogen vehicles, and a combination, in comparison with the current ICE situation.We find that there is 30-40% additional road wear associated with battery vehicles compared to ICE vehicles; there is a 6% increase from ICE vehicles with hydrogen. This is overwhelmingly caused by the largest vehicles - buses and heavy goods vehicles. The contribution from cars, vans and motorcycles is negligible with any fuel type. Governmental bodies will become liable for increased road maintenance costs and may wish to set weight limits on roads, or require additional axles on heavier vehicles, to decrease road wear.
Identification of SARS-CoV-2 in different human tissues. Validation of immunohistochemical and qPCR techniques in paraffin-embedded tissues and cytology
Authors: Bernal-Florindo Irene , Santisteban-Espejo Antonio , Rio-Ignacio Juan Del , Muriel-Cueto Pedro , Perez-Requena Jose , Atienza-Cuevas Lidia , Catalina-Fernandez Inmaculada , Garcia-Rojo Marcial , Romero-Garcia Raquel
Published: March 2022

Since the beginning of 2020, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been responsible for a global pandemic. Although the scientific community has focused on its study, there is little knowledge on validated techniques for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissues archived in pathology departments. The objective of this study was to validate immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for the diagnosis of respiratory coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in cytology and FFPE tissues, obtained from multiple specimen types (autopsy, incisional biopsy and surgical specimens). We also defined relevant temporary points (interval, persistence and archival times) to evaluate the correlation between those periods and viral load. A total of 43 cytology and FFPE samples from patients with a previous positive qPCR COVID-19 test in nasopharyngeal swabs were analysed. Two different qPCR techniques were evaluated from IDT Technologies (method A) and Roche Diagnostics (method B). In immunohistochemistry, antibodies directed against nucleocapsid and spike viral proteins were employed. A total of 25.58% of the evaluated samples were positive for any of the two qPCR techniques. Only one placental specimen (3.44%) with acute villitis showed strong IHC positivity for both antibodies, and the other 4 specimens (lung, brain, kidney and placenta) showed isolated weakly positive cells with IHC. A strong statistically significant correlation was observed between threshold values for qPCR method A and interval time (p = 0.01; ρ = 0.917) and persistence time (p = 0.002; ρ = 0.879) and between qPCR method B and archival time (p = 0.037; ρ = 0.900). In conclusion, the qPCR technique is a sensitive diagnostic tool for SARS-COV-2 detection for both cytology and FFPE specimens. With currently available antibodies, IHC to detect the presence of SARS-COV-2 should only be used in special cases.
Effect of pre-treated almond by-products at different doses of fibrolytic enzyme on nutrition value, ruminal fermentation and enteric methane emission
Authors: Abid Khalil , Jabri Jihene , Yaich Hela , Malek Atef , Rekhis Jamel , Kamoun Mohamed
Published: March 2022

Almond’s by-product is available in large quantities all over the world. However, little information is available about their feed value. The aim of this research was to determine their nutritional value and investigate the effect of pre-treating with exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE) at 0, 1, 2, and 4 µL/ g DM.The result showed that the almond shell is a fibrous by-product with low energy value. The pre-treatment with high doses of EFE hydrolyses part of their cellulose and hemicellulose, improved their fermentation, digestibility and energy value. In addition, it improved protein produced by the ruminal microbiota and volatile fatty acids. This improvement is coupled with the reduction of methane emission. Almond teguments are rich in fibre and have high energy value due to their high fat content. A high content of condensed tannins has been detected in this by-product. The pre-treatments with EFE did not modify their fibre composition and nutritional value. Almond hulls have a high energy value due to their high non-fiber-carbohydrates content. It has moderate fibre compounds and high condensed tannins. The pre-treatment with EFE has no effect on their fibre composition. However, at the low dose, it improves their fermentation, digestion and protein produced by ruminal microbes and at the high dose it has an unharmful effect.This study can encourage farmers to use almond by-product as an alternative feed for ruminants. EFE is good strategy to improve nutritional value of almond by-product, reduce energy loss and protect the environment against global warming
The application of Caprini Risk Assessment Model in evaluation of deep vein thrombosis for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis before arthroplasty
Authors: Jiang Qing , Sun Wei , Ai Dongmei , Yao Yao , Ren Kewei , Lu Jun , Sun Huiqing , Wu Xiaotao
Published: March 2022

Background: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was a fatal complication of knee arthroplasty. We had neglected the risk factors of preoperative DVT although patients undergoing knee arthroplasty were at high risk for VTE. This study was to determine the risk factors for preoperative DVT and application of Caprini Risk Assessment Model (RAM) in patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 1808 cases with end-stage knee OA undergoing primary knee arthroplasty from May 2015 to December 2020. Based on the results of ultrasonography in lower extremities, all patients were divided into non-DVT group and DVT group. Distribution of risk factors and risk levels were compared using χ2 test between two groups. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors and relationship of risk levels and preoperative DVT.Results: The incidence of preoperative DVT was 5.53% (n=100). Distribution of the study population by risk level was low, 4.09%; moderate, 23.95%; high, 66.98%; and highest 4.98%. Female (P=0.002), age (P=0.012), swollen legs (P=0.035) and history of blood clots (P<0.001) was correlated with preoperative DVT. Difference among four risk levels was significant (P=0.007). Patients with highest risk level had statistically significant association with preoperative DVT (P=0.005, OR=2.93, 95%CI [1.375-6.246]).Conclusion: The incidence of preoperative DVT was 5.53% in end-stage knee OA patients. The gender (female) and age were independent risk factors for preoperative DVT. The risk group classification by Caprini RAM was significantly associated with preoperative DVT. The usage of Caprini RAM before knee arthroplasty may be beneficial for prophylaxis of DVT.
The combined effects of Map3k1 mutation and dioxin on differentiation of keratinocytes derived from mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Xiao Bo , Kimura Eiki , Mongan Maureen , Xia Ying
Published: March 2022

Epithelial development starts with stem cell commitment to ectoderm followed by differentiation to basal keratinocytes. The basal keratinocytes, first committed in embryogenesis, constitute the basal layer of the epidermis. They have robust proliferation and differentiation potential, giving rise to suprabasal cells, and are responsible for expansion, maintenance and regeneration of the epidermis. We generated basal epithelial cells in vitro through differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Early on in differentiation, the expression of stem cell markers, Oct4 and Nanog, decreased rapidly along with increased ectoderm marker keratin (Krt) 18. Later on, Krt 18 expression was subdued when cells displayed basal keratinocyte characteristics, including regular polygonal shape, adherent and tight junctions and Krt 14 expression. Using Map3k1 mutant mESCs and environmental dioxin, we examined the gene and environment effects on differentiation. Neither Map3k1 mutation nor dioxin altered mESC differentiation to ectoderm and basal keratinocytes, but they, individually and in combination, potentiated Krt 1 expression and basal to spinous differentiation. Similar gene-environment effects were observed in vivo where dioxin exposure increased Krt 1 more substantially in the epithelium of Map3k1+/− than wild type embryos. Thus, the in vitro model of epithelial differentiation can detect genetic and environmental effects on epidermal development.
What are the impacts of setting up new medical schools? A narrative review
Authors: Hashem Ferhana , Marchand Catherine , Peckham Stephen , Peckham Anna
Published: March 2022

BackgroundThe growth of the UK’s population together with an aging society with increasingly complex health and social care needs has placed a greater demand on statutory care services. In view of this emerging landscape, the UK Government has sought to increase its medically trained workforce in order to better respond to the demands placed on the health service. Five universities were announced as homes to new medical schools offering undergraduate places to boost the numbers of doctors training in England. The aim of this narrative review was to explore how new medical schools could improve the health outcomes of the local population and evaluate the potential contribution it may make to the local economy, workforce and to research and education. MethodsA narrative review was undertaken using a systematic approach for the search literature strategy. The articles were evaluated by undertaking a critical assessment evaluating the fitness of a paper for review according results, methods used to test the hypothesis, conclusions and impact and limitations. Thematic analysis was employed to organise and summarise the findings across a heterogeneous body of literature included in the review. The analysis was developed in an inductive manner and there were not any predefined themes to guide data extraction and analysis. Results: Thirty-six articles were selected for inclusion for this narrative review. The review identified eight key themes: rural / primary care career choices, rural undergraduate medical education and rural exposure, recruitment and retention in primary care / rural settings, workforce, health outcomes of local populations, social accountability, economic contribution of medical schools to communities and impact on rural research. Conclusions:The studies included found a wealth of information on a wide-range of topics on the expansion of undergraduate education and its implications on the future medical workforce. It was shown that medical schools can have a positive effect on the health, social, economic and research activity of a region, but this literature tended to be heterogeneous in focus without consideration of the inter-connections between the wider societal and economic impacts arising from long-term sustainable change being brought to a region.
Differences in Clinical Significance of Bronchodilator Responses Measured by Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second and Forced Vital Capacity
Authors: Choi Joon Young , Kim Sung Kyoung , Lee Jin Hwa , Jung Ki-Suck , Yoo Kwang Ha , Hwang Ki-Eun , Lee Jong Deog , Kim Yu-Il , Yoon Hyoung Kyu , Um Soo-Jung
Published: March 2022

Background: The clinical implication of bronchodilator response (BDR) is not fully understood. However, BDR is frequently present in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We identified the differences in clinical features regarding BDR. In addition, we divided BDR into BDR for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and BDR for forced vital capacity (FVC; i.e., BDR-FEV1 and BDR-FVC, respectively) and analyzed clinical significance.Methods: We used data from the Korea COPD Subgroup Study, a multicenter cohort study of COPD patients recruited from 54 centers in South Korea since April 2012. We analyzed differences in baseline characteristics, 1-year exacerbation rate, and 3-year FEV1 decline between BDR negative and positive patients. Moreover, we analyzed the differences in clinical features between BDR-FEV1 positive and negative patients and between BDR-FVC positive and negative patients. Results: Of the 2,181 patients enrolled in this study, 366 (16.8%) were BDR positive. BDR positive patients were more likely to be ever-smokers and to have a lower body mass index and higher symptom scores compared to BDR negative patients. Baseline FEV1 and FEV1/FVC were lower in the BDR positive compared to the BDR negative group (1.7 ± 0.6 and 1.6 ± 0.5, respectively, p < 0.01; 50.9 ± 12.1 and 46.5 ± 14.8, respectively, p < 0.01). BDR positive patients were more likely to have been diagnosed with asthma–COPD overlap and to receive inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) than BDR negative patients. Analyses of BDR-FEV1 and BDR-FVC patients showed that BDR-FVC patients had similar results to BDR patients with regard to smoking history, symptom scores, and lung function. BDR had no significant effect on 1-year moderate to severe or severe exacerbation rates or 3-year annual FEV1 decline. Interactive effects of ICS and BDR on the exacerbation rate were not significant in any group.Conclusions: In this study, BDR positive patients were more likely to be ever-smokers and to have worse symptoms and lung function than BDR negative patients. BDR-FVC was associated with worse symptom control and lung function compared to BDR-FEV1. However, there were no significant differences in exacerbation rate or decline in lung function in any BDR group. In addition, the effects of ICS on exacerbations were not significant in any group.
Adding sufentanil to ropivacaine in pediatric brachial plexus block fails to improve analgesi a : A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Jun , Nan Yang , Lou Jia , Chen Li-qiong , Zh Chun-chun , Li Xing-wang
Published: March 2022

Background Most studies had used sufentanil and ropivacaine for intrathecal anesthesia in adults or children，but few studies had used sufentanil and ropivacaine for peripheral nerve block, especially in children. Brachial plexus block was one of the most commonly used nerve block methods in children. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether 0.1µg/kg sufentanil combined with 0.25% ropivacaine can improve analgesia and prolong analgesia in children compared with ropivacaine alone.Methods 80 children, ASA I, aged 5-10 years old, undergoing upper limb surgery, were randomly divided into two groups: RS group(0.25% ropivacaine combined with 0.1µg/kg sufentanil) and R group (0.25% ropivacaine alone). The dosage of 0.25% ropivacaine administered in each group was 0.5ml/kg. After general anesthesia, all children underwent ultrasound-guided brachial plexus block and were performed by the same experienced anesthetist. The primary outcome measures were the FLACC score at 2, 4, and 6 h after surgery and the duration of analgesia in each group. Secondary outcome measures were the changes in vital signs during surgery in each group, the incidence of postoperative agitation, the postoperative awake time and the duration of stay in PACU. Results The FLACC scores at 2, 4 and 6 hours after surgery and the duration of analgesia showed no statistically significant difference. There were no statistically significant differences in the changes in vital signs during surgery in each group. The incidence of postoperative agitation was significantly lower in RS group than R group(20% vs 45%, P<0.05). Comparison of the postoperative awake time and the duration of stay in PACU showed that there were no significant differences respectively.Conclusion Compared with 0.25% ropivacaine alone, 0.1µg/kg sufentanil combined with 0.25% ropivacaine for pediatric brachial plexus block did not improve analgesia and prolong analgesia, but reduced postoperative agitation in the children.Trial RegistrationRegistration of Chinese Clinical Trial Registry(Date:19/04/2020, Number:ChiCTR2000032071).
Up-regulation of Interleukin-25 Expression in Vogt-Koyanagi- Harada Disease after Immunosuppressive Treatment
Authors: Xu Mei , Gan Meiqi , Yi Shenglan , He Yuqin , Liu Tingting
Published: March 2022

Purpose: IL-25 has been shown to play an immunosuppressive role in a series of autoimmune diseases. This study aims to investigate the changes of IL-25 in PBMC in Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) patients after the administration of cyclosporine and corticosteroids.Methods: The protein level of IL-25 in the serum of VKH patients was measured by ELISA. The PBMCs from active VKH patients were cultured in RPMI 1640 medium with 10% fetal bovine serum and stimulated with LPS, CsA or dexamethasone for 3 days. The concentration of IL-25 in supernatants was tested by ELISA respectively. Results: The protein level of IL-25 is down-regulated in active VKH patients and comparing with inactive patients. The expression of IL-25 was significantly increased in PBMCs from VKH patients after corticosteroid and CsA stimulation.Conclusion: IL-25 might be a negative regulator of the inflammatory response in VKH syndrome, and the therapeutic effect of corticosteroids and CsA, might upregulate the expression of IL-25 to exert its immunosuppressive effect on VKH syndrome.