bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Features of the ultrasound image of the nail plate and surrounding tissues in patients with onychomycosis of the feet
Authors:   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russian Federation, Tlish M.M. , Shavilova M.E. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russian Federation, Matishev A.A. ,   Multidisciplinary Clinic «Center of Laser Medicine», Krasnodar, Russian Federation
Published: March 2021

Objective. To study echographic and hemodynamic features of the nail plate and surrounding tissues in patients with different clinical variants of onychomycosis of the feet using an ultrasonic transducer with a scanning frequency of 15–22 MHz and on this basis to define the most significant ultrasound signs of this pathology. Patients and methods. 52 patients with onychomycosis of the feet (the main group) and 20 volunteers (the control group) without a fungal nail infection were examined. Ultrasonic scanning was performed using a transducer with a frequency of 15–22 MHz. The sonographic structure and sizes of nail components were registered. Features of blood supply were studied in the area of the nail bed and root using duplex scanning. Results. In patients with onychomycosis in the nail plate, the change in lateral dimensions of its layers was revealed. Structural imperfection and uneven increase in the thickness of intermediate layer of the nail plate, misalignment of ventral and dorsal layers were detected. Discontinuity and blurring of the structure of the ventral layer were observed in this context. In patients with subungual onychomycosis, a thickening of the nail bed and change in its acoustic properties were revealed. When the nail root was involved in the pathological process, an increase in echogenicity and blurring of boundaries in the matrix area were recorded. Decreased value of hemodynamic indices and smoothing of the dopplerographic curve, in comparison with the control group, were observed. Conclusion. Detected ultrasound signs broaden the understanding of changes in the nail echostructure and hemodynamics indices under the influence of a fungal infection, and can be useful in comprehensive diagnostics of onychomycosis of the feet. Key words: sonographic and hemodynamic signs of onychomycosis, nail ultrasonography
Varicella in a pregnant woman and intrauterine varicella in a newborn: a case report
Authors:   Kh.M.Berbekov Kabardino-Balkar State University, Nalchik, Russian Federation, Marjokhova M.Yu. , Margity M.M. ,   Kh.M.Berbekov Kabardino-Balkar State University, Nalchik, Russian Federation, Nagoeva M.Kh. ,   Kh.M.Berbekov Kabardino-Balkar State University, Nalchik, Russian Federation, Afashagova M.M. ,   Kh.M.Berbekov Kabardino-Balkar State University, Nalchik, Russian Federation
Published: March 2021

In this article, we report a case of varicella in a pregnant woman and her newborn. The woman had moderate varicella infection at the 36th week of pregnancy. She delivered a full-term baby at 38th week, 13 days after first manifestations of varicella. Considering high risk of intrauterine infection, it was decided to prescribe acyclovir at a dose of 10 mg/kg per day divided into 3 portions given every 8 hours to prevent congenital varicella. We installed an umbilical catheter using aseptic technique for intravenous acyclovir infusions. Despite these measures, the newborn developed rash (rare erythematous elements up to 1 mm in diameter) on the chest and right shoulder on day 2. On days 3 and 4, the baby developed maculovesicular rash with a diameter of up to 2–3 mm. On day 5, the newborn demonstrated almost complete resolution of rash. Body temperature was normal. The baby was in good condition and active and was breast-fed. The baby received comprehensive therapy in addition to the causal treatment with acyclovir. This case demonstrates typical course of moderate varicella infection in a pregnant woman and intrauterine varicella in a newborn. The mother became ill shortly before giving birth and, therefore, produced specific antibodies that were transferred through the placenta, which ultimately mitigated varicella infection in the newborn. Key words: varicella, pregnant woman, newborn, acyclovir
Preventive anti-inflammatory therapy during the acute respiratory infections in children with mild and moderate bronchial asthma
Authors:   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation, Revyakina V.A. , Larkova I.A. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation, Kuvshinova E.D. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: March 2021

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of using anti-inflammatory drugs based on ammonium glycyrrhizinate (AG) (Reglisam, CJSC “VIFITECH”, Russia) in children with BA in the acute period of ARI. Patients and methods. Under observation there were 42 children (from 6 to 10 years old) with a diagnosis of BA in the acute period of ARI (1–2 days from the beginning of clinical manifestations). Patients were randomized into the main group – 20 patients who were prescribed the drug ammonium glycyrrhizinate (Reglisam) in addition to symptomatic ARI therapy, and the control group – 22 children who were prescribed only symptomatic ARI therapy. The observation period was 14 days with 2 checkpoints (1st and 14th days), when the following parameters were evaluated: general clinical examination; asthma symptoms; PCR diagnostics of acute respiratory viral infection and influenza pathogens; external respiration and BA control test (C-ACT), administration of additional medications and development of adverse events. Results. There was a decrease in the average scores of daily and night symptoms of BA in the study group, both in dynamics and in comparison with the control group at visit 2 (p < 0.05). The average duration of ARI in the main group was 6.34 ± ± 1.15 days and was less than that in the control group of patients (10.95 ± 1.45 days) (p < 0.05). The average duration of the use of short-acting β2-agonists in the main group was 3.37 ± 1.05 days and was less in comparison with the control group (6.75 ± 1.6) (p < 0.05). On the 14th day of observation in the main group, the median of C-ACT parameters increased and corresponded to good control of BA, and the level of blood eosinophils decreased to normal values; in the control group, no such dynamics was found. In 78% of patients in the main group, on the 14th day of observation, the persistence of previously detected respiratory viruses and influenza was not determined, the proportion of such patients in the control group was more than 2 times less. Conclusion. The data obtained indicate the feasibility and effectiveness of the inclusion of the drug AG as a preventive therapy for children with asthma in the acute period of ARI to improve control over the course of the disease. Key words: bronchial asthma, children, therapy, ammonium glycyrrhizinate, acute respiratory infections
The Moderating Effect of Emotional Competence on Job Satisfaction and Organisational Commitment of Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Stamouli Elena , Gerbeth Sebastian
Published: March 2021

Background
Medical organisations such as hospitals are largely seen as task-based, wherein different individuals are expected to work in interdependent teams. The present study seeks to demonstrate the relevance of individual factors (job satisfaction) and individual competences (emotional competence) for organisational commitment in a sample of healthcare professionals.
Methods
Using multi-source data, the empirical study examined the interaction effect by analysing data collected from 96 healthcare professionals of five hospitals in Germany. To investigate the relationship between emotional competence, job satisfaction and organisational commitment, moderated regression analysis, as well as simple slope analysis, were performed.
Results
Hierarchical multiple regression analysis shows that emotional competence moderated the relationship between satisfaction with the job and commitment to the job. Our findings confirm that healthcare professionals with high emotional competence are able to deal more effectively with dissatisfaction in the workplace so that organisational commitment remains unaffected.
Conclusion
Based on the results of this study, emotional competence of healthcare professionals is important for increasing job satisfaction and commitment to the job. Especially for healthcare professionals whose job satisfaction is low, a high level of emotional competence enables them to maintain a high level of organisational commitment. The findings of the study are discussed at the theoretical level for researchers and practical level for hospital managers.
Simultaneous Bilateral Ocular Trauma: Clinical Presentation, Epidemiology and Patterns of Injury
Authors: Maurya Rajendra prakash , Maurya Rajendra Prakash , Singh Virendra Pratap , Kadir Syeed Mehbub Ul , Das Jayant Kumar , Bosak Sanjay Kumar , Prajapat Manish Kumar , Roy Meghna , Kushwaha Brijesh Kumar , Kumar Anil , Al-Mujaini Abdullah
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the frequency, sociodemographic profile, clinical presentation, patterns of injury, treatment and outcomes of cases of simultaneous bilateral ocular trauma.
Methods

This retrospective study was conducted from May 2015 to April 2019. The medical records of patients presenting with bilateral ocular injuries were reviewed.
Results

Among the 402 patients presenting with ocular injuries, 34 (8.46%) had simultaneous bilateral ocular trauma. The majority were male (70.59%) and the mean age was 26.82 ± 15.86 years (range: 2–70 years).Most injuries occurred away from home (64.71%), mainly in roads (32.36%) or playgrounds (14.71%), and the vast majority (91.18%) were non-occupational in nature. Mechanical injuries were most frequent (47.05%), followed by cracker (17.65%), chemical (17.65%) and thermal (11.76%) injuries. Most cases occurred due to assault (26.47%), road traffic injury(20.59%) or sports/recreational activities (17.65%). The majority of victims were not using protective devices at the time of injury (82.35%) and had associated polytrauma (58.82%).Closed and open globe injuries accounted for 29.41% and 14.71% of cases, respectively, mostly involving zones I (55.00%) and II (40.00%). Orbital fractures occurred in 27.94% of eyes. Category I and II ocular trauma scores were noted in 5.88% and 7.35% of eyes, respectively. Overall, 13.24% were blinded as a result of the trauma.
Conclusion

Simultaneous bilateral ocular trauma is rare and occurs mostly following traffic accidents, assault or recreational activities. In particular, younger males are more prone to bilateral ocular injuries, the majority of which are severe and associated with poor outcomes.
A structural equation modeling approach to understanding physical function of terminal cancer patients
Authors: Choi Han-Gyo , Yeom Hye-Ah , Lee Myung Ah , Ra Jeong-Ran
Published: March 2021

Purpose Understanding the activities of daily living (ADL) of cancer patients at the end-of-life stage may help healthcare providers develop interventions for preserving physical function and enhance patient’s dignity in an everyday care context. This study aims to develop and test a causal effect model of physical function in terminal cancer patients.Methods A total of 238 terminal cancer patients were recruited from two hospitals in South Korea. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire including demographics, visual analogue scale for pain, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue, and Katz index of independence in ADL. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS WIN 25.0 and AMOS 23.0 programs for structural equation modeling procedures. Results The model showed a good fit to the data (χ2/df=2.08, GFI=0.932, NFI=0.966, TLI=0.971, CFI=0.982, AGFI=0.874, RMSEA=0.067). Physical function of patients with terminal cancer was positively influenced by regular exercise and negatively influenced by hospitalization, fatigue, and pain, explaining 35.1% of the variance. In this study, regular exercise improved participants’ ADL level directly and indirectly either by reducing fatigue or decreasing fatigue through controlling pain. Pain did not affect ADL directly but decreased ADL level indirectly through fatigue as a mediator.Conclusion Based on these results, in order to minimizing the problems of physical function in terminal cancer patients, interventions that reduce pain and fatigue and provide regular exercise are required. Particularly, hospitalized patients are susceptible to a decrease in physical function, so regular physical function evaluations may be considered.
Magneto Electro Elastic Modelling and Nonlinear Vibration Analysis of Bi Directional Functionally Graded Beams
Authors: Tang Ye , Wang Tao , Ma Zhi-Sai , Yang Tianzhi
Published: March 2021

In the paper, a novel magneto electro elastic ( model of bi-directional ( 2 D) functionally graded material s (FGM s ) beam s is developed for investigating the nonlinear dynamics It is shown that the asymmetric modes induced by the 2D FGM s may significantly affect the nonlinear dynamic responses which is tremendously different from previous studies Taking into account the geometric nonlinearity, the nonlinear equation of motion and associated boundary conditions for the beam s are derived according to the Hamilton’s principle The linear frequencies and modes of the beam s are numerically calculated by the generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM) GDQM). The frequency responses of the nonlinear forced vibration are constructed based on the Galerkin technique incorporating with the incremental harmonic balance (I HB) approach. The influences of the material distributions, length thickness ratio, electric voltage, magnetic potential as well as boundary condition on the nonlinear resonant frequency and response amplitude are discussed in details. It is notable that increasing in the axial and thickness FG indexes, negative electric potential and positive magnetic potential can lead to decline the nonlinear resonance frequency and amplitude peak which is usually applied to accurately design the multiferroic composite structures.
Verbal Fluency Test In Patients With A New Brain Tumour
Authors: Zienius Karolis , Kerrigan Simon , Tuck Sharon , Grant Robin
Published: March 2021

Aims:

To evaluate the frequency of impairment on semantic verbal fluency (SVF) test in patients with a new brain tumour prior to neurosurgery and to examine scores across symptom presentations.

Methods:

This is a secondary analysis of clinical, cognitive and capacity data from a prospective study of consent in patients with newly diagnosed brain tumours. Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination-Revised version, which includes within it the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), was tested prior to surgery. Patient’s presenting symptoms were categorised into five groups according to a pre-defined criteria. SVF score was converted to a z-score to identify frequency of impairment and raw scores for SVF were compared across symptom presentations.

Results:

A total of 97 patients (51% female; mean age 53.8 years; 53% high-grade tumours; 11% metastases) were assessed. Forty-one percent had headache only or headache “plus”, 26% had focal deficit only; 21% had seizures only, and 13% had cognitive deficits. SVF was impaired in 40% of patients. Adjusted SVF performance was worse for patients with headache symptoms and cognitive deficits than those with focal neurology only or seizures. SVF and MMSE had a positive moderate-strong correlation (r=0.59, p<0.0001).

Conclusion:

Decreased cognitive performance as identified by SVF is common in patients with a new brain tumour, especially those with headache or cognitive deficits. A low SVF may be a useful rapid additional “red flag” for patients with a suspicious headache, when referral to secondary care is considered. Further work needs to be done around the cut-off values for SVF in helping primary care clinicians select patients for early referral.
Effectiveness of a Need-Based Program in Relieving Psychological Distress of Family Caregivers of Leukemia Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Abdullahzadeh Mehrdad , Khosravi Narjes
Published: March 2021

PurposeThe family of leukemia patients, due to their caring role, often feel psychological distress. This paper describes the efficacy of a designed family-need-based program on relieving depression, anxiety, and stress of family caregivers of leukemia patients by meeting the specific psychological needs of caregivers.MethodsIn this clinical trial, 64 family caregivers of leukemia patients referring to a medical center in Iran were recruited by convenience sampling and divided into study and control groups randomly. The study group attended a designed need-based program. The control group did not receive the intervention. Stress, anxiety, and depression before, right after, and one month after the intervention in family caregivers were compared using DASS-42. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics; the significance level adopted was 5%.ResultsBefore the intervention, the mean score of depression, anxiety, and stress scale in both study and control groups showed no considerable difference (P > 0.05). After the intervention, the mean score of DASS-42 revealed a significant difference between the two groups and the study group did better on outcomes (P < 0.001).ConclusionThis family-need-based program can decrease the level of stress, anxiety, and depression of the family caregivers of leukemia patients and may potentially alleviate the psychological distress of family caregivers over their caring role.Trial registration number: IRCT2013093011895N2. Date of registration: 2014-05-06
Sarcopenia in metastatic cancer patients: results of a prospective non-randomized study.
Authors: DUBU Jonas , SEPTANS Anne-Lise , DOMONT Julien , BOURGEOIS Hugues , DUPUIS Olivier , RUFFIER Amandine , VOOG Eric , POINTREAU Yoann , ROCHE Sophie , SERRE Lydie , RABI Hassan , DENIS Fabrice , DÛ Katell LE
Published: March 2021

Background

Prognostic factors can impact the quality of life and overall survival in metastatic situations: sarcopenia and nutritional status disorders.
Methods

We conducted a non-interventional, observational prospective study during 3 consecutive months (SPACE trial, ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04714203). Performance status, lumbar skeletal muscle index (by CT scan), albumin, C-reactive protein, or LDH, were collected from medical records in the classic balance sheet at inclusion and then at 3 and 6 months after the day of inclusion.
Results

38 patients were included with a median age of 68 years old and 31 were evaluable for sarcopenia. 58.1% of patients with metastatic cancer were sarcopenic at the diagnosis and 61% at 6 months. At the inclusion, 87.5% of sarcopenic patients were men (p < 0.0002) and sarcopenia status was associated with lung localization (p < 0.0332) and non-operable cancer (p < 0.0069).
Conclusion

The majority of patients in our study were sarcopenic at the inclusion and at 6 months. However, the number of patients was too small to correlate sarcopenia with survival. Further larger studies are needed to establish stronger results. In the future, sarcopenic patients could benefit from specialized care with nutrition and adapted physical activity.
Irreversible Response of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) to CO2 Forcing
Authors: Kug Jong-Seong , Oh Ji-Hoon , An Soon-Il , Min Seung-Ki , Yeh Sang-Wook , Son Seok-Woo , Kam Jong-Hoon , Ham Yoo-Geun , Shin Jongsoo
Published: March 2021

With the unprecedented rate of global warming in this century, whether or not human-made climate change is irreversible is the most critical question. Based on idealized CO2 ramp-up and -down experiments, we show here that the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) exhibits irreversible changes. While the ITCZ location does not change much during the CO2 increasing period, the ITCZ sharply moves south as soon as CO2 begins to decrease, and its center eventually resides in the Southern Hemisphere. The pattern of the irreversible precipitation changes manifests a permanent extreme El Nino-like pattern, which has distinctive impacts on the global hydrological cycle. It was revealed that the hysteresis behavior of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation and the delayed energy exchanges between the tropics and extratropics are responsible for the peculiar evolution of the hemispheric temperature contrast, leading to irreversible ITCZ changes.
Prevalence and risk factors for faecal carriage of multidrug resistant Escherichia coli among slaughterhouse workers
Authors: Aworh Mabel Kamweli , Abiodun-Adwusi Damilola , Mba Nwando , Helwigh Birgitte , Hendriksen Rene S.
Published: March 2021

The increasing occurrence of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli in human and animal population has become a global public health problem that requires immediate intervention. We aimed to investigate prevalence and risk factors for faecal carriage of drug-resistant E. coli among slaughterhouse workers. We conducted this cross-sectional study among 118 apparently healthy workers in the largest slaughterhouses in Abuja and Lagos from July to December 2020. E. coli was isolated from stool samples of slaughterhouse workers and antimicrobial susceptibility testing performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Multi-drug resistance (MDR) was defined as resistance to three or more classes of antibiotics. Majority were males: 88.1% (n = 104), aged > 41years: 28.8% (n = 34), married: 70.3% (n = 83), and were butchers: 53.4% (n = 63). Prevalence of MDR E. coli was 50% (n = 59), highest among butchers compared to Slaughterhouse cleaners. Of 75 E. coli isolates identified, 25.3% (n = 19) were ESBL producers; 78.7% (n = 59) were MDR. Keeping animals (p = 0.01); eating at the Slaughterhouse (p = 0.03) and collecting waste (p = 0.02) remained independent risk factors for acquiring MDR E. coli. Prevalence of resistant E. coli was highest among butchers and associated with keeping animals at home, eating at work, and waste-collection. Hand-hygiene and responsible use of antibiotics among slaughterhouse workers should be encouraged.
Diverting Stoma Complications in Rectal Cancer Surgery.
Authors: Kawai Masaya , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Honjo Kumpei , Okazawa Yu , Takahashi Rina , Kawano Shingo , Munakata Shinya , Sugimoto Kiichi , Ishiyama Shun , Takahashi Makoto , Kojima Yutaka , Tomiki Yuichi
Published: March 2021

Background: A consensus regarding diverting stoma (DS) construction in rectal cancer surgery was reached to avoid reoperation related to anastomotic leakage. However, the incidence of stoma-related complications (SRCs) remains high. In this study, we aimed to examine the perioperative outcomes of DS construction in patients who underwent sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer.Methods: Between 2005 and 2017, we included 400 participants who underwent radical sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer. These participants were divided into two groups: DS (+) and DS (-) groups, and the outcomes, including postoperative complications (POCs), were compared.Results and conclusion: The incidence of ileus was higher in the DS (+) group (P<0.01); however, no patient showed anastomotic leakage of grade3. Furthermore, early SRCs were observed in 33 patients (21.6%) and bowel obstruction -related stoma outlet syndrome occurred in 19 patients (12.4%). There was no intergroup difference in the incidence of grade 3b POCs. However, the most common reason for reoperation was different in the two groups: anastomotic leakage in 91.7% of patients with 3b POCs in the DS (-) group, and SRCs in 85.7% of patients with 3b POCs in the DS (+) group.In patients with DS, there was an increase in the incidence of overall POCs, severe POCs (grade 3), and bowel obstruction, including stoma outlet syndrome, compared to patients without DS. Therefore, it is important to construct an appropriate DS to avoid SRCs and to be more selective in assigning patients for DS construction.
A novel method to extract juglone from Juglans mandshurica waste branches using a water-in-oil microemulsion
Authors: Li Chunying , Meng Xianming , Tian Mengfei , Li Shen , Tian Yao , Wang Tingting , Zhao Chunjian
Published: March 2021

Pruning of Juglans mandshurica produces a lot of waste branches which are potentially rich source of juglone. However, they are usually discarded as waste. Given that, the water-in-oil microemulsion was proposed, aiming at developing a novel and efficient microemulsion-based microwave-assisted extraction（MBMAE）method. By which juglone in the Juglans mandshurica waste branches could be obtained. In our experiment, the waste branches powder was added to the MBMAE system. Under the best microemulsion system: (tween 80: n-propanol : n-hexane : water＝27% : 13.5% : 4.5% : 55%), the PH of the microemulsion solution of 5.6, microemulsion - Juglans mandshurica branches powder of 20:1 (mL/g), operating temperature of 40°C and operating time of 63 s, operating power of 400 W, the juglone yield was 4.58 mg/g. The results were that the extraction yield applying the MBMAE method were 1.86-fold and 6.65-fold that of microwave-assisted extraction applying ethanol (Ethanol-MAE) and heat reflux extraction by ethanol (Ethanol-HRE), respectively. Obviously, the MBMAE method could be used as an alternative to traditional extraction methods to extract juglone.Statement of Novelty A large number of waste branches from Juglans mandshurica pruning are often discarded as waste. Based on the concept of green development, this work proposes for the first time the extraction and utilization of juglone from the waste branches of Juglans mandshurica. However, a certain problem such as low efficiency, high cost, and complicated operation is existing in traditional extraction method for juglone. Consequently, a special microemulsion system for juglone was established for the first time, and on this basis, the application of MBMAE method to the extraction of juglone was also proposed for the first time. It provides data support for the extraction of juglone from other materials or plants.
Status of Major Glaciers of Hunza River Basin, Under Changing Climatic Conditions of Pakistan Over the Period of (1990-2018)
Authors: Ali Sajid , Khan Garee , Hassan Wajid , Qureshi Javed Akhter , Bano Iram
Published: March 2021

Ice masses and snow of Hunza River Basin (HRB) are an important primary source of fresh water and lifeline for downstream inhabitants. Changing climatic conditions seriously put an impact on these available ice and snow masses. These glaciers may affect downstream population by glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) and surge events due to climatic variation. So, monitoring of these glaciers and available ice masses are important. This research delivers an approach for selected glaciers of the Hunza river basin. An attempt is made in this study using Landsat (OLI, ETM, ETM+, TM), digital elevation model (DEM), Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing techniques (RS&GIS) techniques. We delineated 27 glaciers within HRB from the period of 1990-2018. These glaciers' total area is about 2589.75 ±86km 2 in 1990 and about 2565.12 ±68km 2 in 2018. Our results revealed that from 2009 to 2015, glacier coverage of HRB advanced with a mean annual advance rate of 2.22±0.1 km 2 a -1 . Conversely, from 1994 to 1999, the strongest reduction in glacier area with a mean rate of - 3.126±0.3km 2 a -1 is recorded. The glaciers of HRB are relatively stable compared to Hindukush, Himalayan and Tibetan Plateau (TP) region of the world. The steep slope glacier's retreat rate is more than that of gentle slope glaciers, and the glaciers below elevation of 5000 m above sea level change significantly. Based on climate data from 1995-2018, HRB shows a decreasing trend in temperature and increasing precipitation. The glacier area's overall retreat is due to an increase in summer temperature while the glacier advancement is induced possibly by winter and autumn precipitation.
Antifungal Effects of Lycorine on Botrytis Cinerea and Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Zhao Shixue , Guo Yanhua , Wang Qiannan , An Bang
Published: March 2021

Botrytis cinerea cause postharvest diseases on fruit and lead economic losses. Application of environment-friendly natural compounds is an alternative for synthetic fungicides to control postharvest disease. Lycorine is an indolizidine alkaloid which is widely used for human drug design, however, application of lycorine in controlling postharvest disease and the underlying mechanisms have not been reported. In this study, the effects of lycorine on mycelium growth, spore germination, disease development in apple fruit, cell viability, cell membrane integrity, cell wall deposition, and expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and GTPase of B. cinerea were investigated. Our results showed that lycorine was effective in controlling postharvest gray mold caused by B. cinerea on apple fruit. In the in vitro tests, lycorine strongly inhibited spore germination and mycelium spreading in culture medium. Investigation via fluorescein diacetate and propidium iodide staining suggested that lycorine could damage the membrane integrity and impair cell viability of B. cinerea. Furthermore, the expression levels of several MAPK and GTPase coding genes were reduced upon the lycorine treatment. Taken together, lycorine is an effective and promising way to control postharvest disease caused by B. cinerea.
Numerical Simulation and Optimization of Fine-Blanking Process for Copper Alloy Sheet
Authors: Kuo Chun-Chih , Liu Kuo-Wang , Li Tse-Chang , Wu Dai-You , Lin Bor-Tsuen
Published: March 2021

When the fine-blanking process is used, secondary grinding or processing can be omitted because the shear surface of fine-blanking parts can achieve almost zero fracture zone requirements. Fine-blanking has the advantages of high precision and high production efficiency. It was originally used on watch parts, but with increasingly refined technology, it has been widely applied in computers, consumer electronics, communication products, and vehicle parts. The primary objective of the fine-blanking process is to reduce the fracture zone depth and die roll zone width. This study used a 2.5mm thick central processing unit (CPU) thermal heat spreader as an example. Finite element analysis software was employed to simulate and optimize the main eight process parameters that affect the fracture zone depth and die roll zone width after fine-blanking: the V-ring shape angle, V-ring height of the blank holder, V-ring height of the cavity, V-ring position, blank holder force, counter punch force, die clearance, and blanking velocity. Simulation analysis was conducted using the L18 (21×37) Taguchi orthogonal array experimental combination. The simulation results of the fracture zone depth and die roll zone width were optimized and analyzed as quality objectives using Taguchi’s smaller-the-better design. The analysis results revealed that with fracture zone depth as the quality objective, 0.164 mm was the optimal value, and counter punch force made the largest contribution of 25.89%. In addition, with die roll zone width as the quality objective, the optimal value was 1.274 mm, and V-ring height of the cavity made the largest contribution of 29.45%. Subsequently, this study selected fracture zone depth and die roll zone width as multi-criteria quality objectives and used the robust multi-criteria optimal approach and Pareto-optimal solutions to perform multi-criteria optimization analysis. The results revealed the optimal fracture zone depth and die roll zone width were 0.239 mm and 1.288 mm, respectively. Finally, the experimental results verified that the fracture zone depth was 0.230 mm and die roll zone width was 1.205 mm. The findings met the industry’s fraction zone depth standard (below 12% of blank thickness) and achieved a smaller die roll zone width.
Evaluation and Comparison of Structurally Different Cellulose-Based Hemostatic Agents in a Rat Kidney Model
Authors: Paprskářová Alice , Suchy Pavel , Chalupová Marta , Michlovská Lenka , Klusáková Jarmila , Sopuch Tomáš , Vojtová Lucy
Published: March 2021

Different topical hemostatic materials are used to achieve effective hemostasis. High hemostatic activity, biocompatibility, bioresorbability, and easy manipulation are to be expected in such a developed product. In the surgical world with these specific requirements, finding a proper hemostatic agent is very difficult. The study compared several materials of various construction properties, which were assessed for structural and related properties by morphological analyses and assessed in vivo for their efficiency and behaviour using a model of rat partial nephrectomy. New sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) sponge with the lowest porosity and free swell absorptive capacity contained the highest amount of hydroxyl and carboxyl groups. Results revealed that this CMC material in the form of a bioresorbable sponge may ensure the necessary hemostatic effects, while also providing a positive influence on the reaction of the local tissue. The CMC material also needed significantly less time to achieve hemostasis (p < 0.001). Moreover, the sponge reached satisfactory results in the histopathological evaluation with the lowest destruction score and favorable healing reaction. This modified product proved itself to be a promising bioresorbable hemostat, which, according to its design, matches with its surgical applications. In general, the obtained data elucidated the dependency of the total effect on its structure and composition.
A Novel Molecular Target in EGFR-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated With a Combination of Osimertinib and Pemetrexed
Authors: Takano Natsuki , Seike Masahiro , Sugano Teppei , Matsuda Kuniko , Hisakane Kakeru , Yoshikawa Akiko , Nakamichi Shinji , Noro Rintaro , Gemma Akihiko
Published: March 2021

Overcoming acquired resistance to the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) osimertinib is currently an important clinical issue in treating EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. EGFR-TKI may synergize with chemotherapy and offer novel treatment strategies for overcoming acquired resistance. Here, we evaluate the therapeutic potential of combining osimertinib with pemetrexed and clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms. Gene expression microarrays were used to assess gene expression on exposure to osimertinib in the presence or absence of pemetrexed and we established cell lines resistant to osimertinib as well as those resistant to osimertinib+pemetrexed in order to explore mechanisms of resistance. Osimertinib+pemetrexed treatment significantly delayed the emergence of resistance relative to monotherapy in vitro and in vivo. Microarray analysis revealed significantly downregulated expression of the anti-apoptotic gene PLK1 in cells treated with osimertinib+pemetrexed. Consistent with this, cell lines resistant to osimertinib or to osimertinib+pemetrexed, exhibited overexpression of PLK1. Accordingly, PLK1 inhibition by siRNA or PLK1 inhibitor volasertib inhibited proliferation by inducing apoptosis in these resistant cell lines. Blocking PLK1 contributes to mediating the synergistic antiproliferative effect of osimertinib+pemetrexed in EGFR-mutant NSCLC cells. PLK1 overexpression may be a critical mechanism responsible for the acquired resistance of such mutants to osimertinib+pemetrexed.
Dyadic Entrainment. An Overwhelming and Modality-Dependent Phenomenon.
Authors: Rosso Mattia , Maes Pieter-Jan , Leman Marc
Published: March 2021

Rhythmic joint coordination is ubiquitous in daily-life human activities. In order to coordinate their actions towards shared goals, individuals need to co-regulate their timing and move together at the collective level of behavior. Remarkably, basic forms of coordinated behavior tend to emerge spontaneously as long as two individuals are exposed to each other’s rhythmic movements. The present study investigated the dynamics of spontaneous dyadic entrainment, and more specifically how they depend on the sensory modalities mediating informational coupling. By means of a novel interactive paradigm, we showed that dyadic entrainment systematically takes place during a minimalistic rhythmic task despite explicit instructions to ignore the partner. Crucially, the interaction was organized by clear dynamics in a modality-dependent fashion. Our results showed highly consistent coordination patterns in visually-mediated entrainment, whereas we observed more chaotic and more variable profiles in the auditorily-mediated counterpart. The proposed experimental paradigm yields empirical evidence for the overwhelming tendency of dyads to behave as coupled rhythmic units. In the context of our experimental design, it showed that coordination dynamics differ according to availability and nature of perceptual information. Interventions aimed at rehabilitating, teaching or training sensorimotor functions can be ultimately informed and optimized by such fundamental knowledge.
Identification of Common Mechanisms and Key Genes in the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Chen Fengshou , Hou Haijia , Tang Bing
Published: March 2021

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have a strong association. We aimed to study the relationships between COPD and AMI, and reveal potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers. Materials and methods: The dataset GSE38974 and GSE60993 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to analyze the intersections among differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Common DEGs were identified and performed functional enrichment analyses. The hub genes were obtained based on the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network by cytoHubba in Cytoscape software. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to identify the diagnosis efficacy of hub genes. The relationship between hub genes and these two diseases in the CTD database were validated. Finally, the transcription factors (TFs) corresponding to hub genes were also analyzed. Results: In our study, sixty-five common DEGs were obtained in COPD and AMI. GO enrichment analysis indicated that inflammation or apoptotic biological processes are significant enriched biological processes. Common DEGs were mostly enriched in pathways including apoptosis, HIF-1 signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. MMP9, SOCS3, MCL1, ERBB2 and S100A12 were identified as the hub genes. Furthermore, we found that the expression of hub genes was significantly associated with a diagnosis efficacy of COPD and AMI. We also validated the relationship between the hub genes and these two diseases in the CTD database. We also found that ELK1, ETV4, STAT3 and TFAP2A were significant TFs, which interacted with the hub genes. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study revealed the communal DEGs and related mechanisms between the pathophysiology of COPD and AMI. MMP9, SOCS3, MCL1, ERBB2 and S100A12 were identified as the hub genes that are associated with COPD and AMI. Our study provides new ideas and evidence for further exploration of the mechanisms and treatment of COPD and AMI.
A Study on The Use of UAV Images to Improve the Separation Accuracy of Agricultural Land Areas
Authors: Aliabad Fahime Arabi , Malamiri Hamid Reza Ghafarian , Shojaei Saeed
Published: March 2021

Classifying satellite images with medium spatial resolution such as Landsat, it is usually difficult to distinguish between plant species, and it is impossible to determine the area covered with weeds. In this study, a Landsat 8 image along with UAV images was used to separate pistachio cultivars and separate weed from trees. In order to use the high spatial resolution of UAV images, image fusion was carried out through high-pass filter, wavelet, principal component transformation, BROVEY, IHS and Gram Schmidt methods, and ERGAS, RMSE and correlation criteria were applied to assess their accuracy. The results represented that the wavelet method with R2, RMSE and ERGAS 0.91, 12.22 cm and 2.05 respectively had the highest accuracy in combining these images. Then, images obtained by this method were chosen with a spatial resolution of 20 cm for classification. Different classification methods including unsupervised method, maximum likelihood, minimum distance, fuzzy artmap, perceptron and tree methods were evaluated. Moreover, six soil classes, Ahmad Aghaei, Akbari, Kalleh Ghoochi, Fandoghi and a mixing class of Kalleh Ghoochi and Fandoghi were applied and also three classes of soil, pistachio tree and weeds were extracted from the trees. The results demonstrated that the fuzzy artmap method had the highest accuracy in separating weeds from trees, differentiating various pistachio cultivars with Landsat image and also classification with combined image and had 0.87, 0.79 and 0.87 kappa coefficients respectively. The comparison between pistachio cultivars through Landsat image and combined image showed that the validation accuracy obtained from harvest has raised by 17% because of combination of images. The results of this study indicated that the combination of UAV and Landsat 8 images affects well to separate pistachio cultivars and determine the area covered with weeds.
Is the consumption of Tilapia zillii and Clarias gariepinus from Edku Lake — El Beheira Governorate —Egypt safe for humans: a physiological and biochemical study and determination of five trace elements
Authors: Abdel-Kader Heba , Mourad Mohamed , Haredi Afaf Mohamed
Published: March 2021

The Egyptian government seeks to develop the northern lakes, including Edku Lake in the El Beheira governorate, to enhance the physiological functions of fish, and thus, improve their quality and promote their products. Therefore, this study was performed on the two cheapest fish species T. zillii and C. gariepinus in the Egyptian market, by studying proximate body composition, antioxidant enzyme activity, and bioaccumulation of some trace elements. In this study, T. zillii showed the highest mean of carbohydrates (16.11± 0.67 mg/g), fats (24.21 ± 0.93mg/g), ash (7.33 ±1.00 %), and water content (78.33 ± 1.85 %) whereas, the highest mean of protein content was recorded in C. gariepinus (64.33 ±1.01 mg/g). Antioxidant activity GSH (41.66 ± 2.01mg/g), CAT (21.66 ± 2.6 U/g), GPx (36.5 ± 3.01 mU/L), and GR (41.16 ± 1.0 U/L) in the liver of T. zillii demonstrated insignificant decrease, except GSH and CAT was significant at (p < 0.05). SOD activity showed an insignificant decrease in T. zillii (47±3.5 U/g). Concerning trace element concentrations, C. gariepinus demonstrated an increase in five trace elements than T. zillii. The abundance of the elements is in the order as Hg< Al < Cd <Pb < As in T. zillii and C. gariepinus muscles. The highest As was recorded in C. gariepinus (1.54 ± 0.08 μg/g), whereas, the lowest Hg was recorded in T.zillii (0.47 ± 0.08 μg/g). In this research, the concentrations of the trace element in the two studied fish species were above the limits permitted by EOSQC, FAO/WHO, and the EU'. The estimated weekly intake (EWI) of the elements concentrated in the two fish species was unsafe for young people (40 Kg), and children (15 Kg), whereas it was safe for consumption by adults (70 kg) with advice on safe levels of consumption for C. gariepinus for adults. So, this study recommended that the children should consume less than 16.12857 g/day or 112.90 g/week T.zillii muscle and 13.27 g/day or 92.92 g/week C. gariepinus muscle. Moreover, Youth should consume less than 43.01 g/day or 301.7g/ week T.zillii muscle and 35.39714 g/day or 247.78 g/week C. gariepinus muscle. Finally, adult should consume less than 23.1 g/day and 161.7 g/week T.zillii muscle, and 61.94286 g/day or 433.6 g/week C. gariepinus muscle to maintain their safety.
Suitability Assessment of Mesozoic Limestone Aggregates as Pavement Material in Harar-Dire Dawa Area, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Gudissa Leta , Raghuvanshi Tarun Kumar , Meten Matebie , Chemeda Yadeta Chemdesa , Schmerold Ronald
Published: March 2021

The quality of aggregates affects the durability and performance of pavement as it is the dominant component both in rigid and flexible pavement. Hence, aggregate quality assessment is important to ensure the good performance of aggregate in different sections of pavements. The present work aims to assess the suitability of limestone for road aggregate. Thirty-seven Mesozoic limestone samples obtained from previously identified suitable quarry sites were subjected to petrographic and geotechnical analyses. Physical properties (ultrasonic pulse velocity (PVU), water absorption (Wa), Na2SO4 soundness, and specific gravity tests) and mechanical properties (unconfined compressive strength (UCS), Aggregate crushing value (ACV), Aggregate Impact Value (AIV), and Los Angles Abrasion value (LAAV)) were determined in the lab and then compared with the globally accepted standards. The petrographic observations revealed that the Mesozoic limestones of the area are dominantly composed of micrite, sparite, and bioclasts with subordinate intraclasts, ooids, Fe-oxides, and dolomites. Results of the physical properties show the rock has a mean PVU of 4859 m/s, a bulk dry specific gravity (Gsb) of 2.64, and very low water absorption capacity ranging from 0.2-5.7%, and Na2SO4 soundness ranging from 1-14%. UCS, AIV, ACV, and LAAV range from 20.5-180.5Mpa, 8-20%, 24-34%, and 18.9-31.1%, respectively. The physical, chemical and mechanical properties of the entire limestones sample comply with the required standards, suggesting their suitability as aggregate materials in road construction.To study the interrelationships between the physical, properties of the limestone aggregate, regression analysis was applied showing a significant interrelationship between these properties.
Germline and Tumor BRCA1/2 Pathogenic Variants in Chinese Triple-negative Breast Carcinomas
Authors: Ji Gang , Bao Longlong , Yao Qianlan , Zhang Jing , Zhu Xiaoli , Bai Qianming , Shao Zhiming , Yang Wentao , Zhou Xiaoyan
Published: March 2021

PurposeThe cost-effectiveness of BRCA1/2 screening for all newly diagnosed breast cancer remains controversial with respect to standard treatment. Further evidences that include incidence and outcome of BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants (PV) screened based on age or family history (FH) are needed to fully justify this conclusion. We aimed to investigate germline and tumor BRCA1/2 PV based on age screening in Chinese triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients. MethodsPaired blood and tumor DNA from 124 unselected Chinese TNBC patients with less than or equal to 55 years were collected and analyzed for BRCA1/2 PV. Clinicopathological characteristics including age at diagnosis, FH and follow-up data were collected for further analysis. ResultsThe entire frequency of germline and tumor BRCA1/2 PV was 21.0% and 25%, respectively. Among them, 20 (16.1%) germline and 5 (4.0%) somatic BRCA1/2 single-nucleotide variant/insertion/deletions were found by NGS testing, 6 (4.8%) BRCA1 large genomic rearrangements were detected in blood DNA by MPLA. There was significant correlation between FH and germline BRCA1/2 PV among these patients. Patients with tumor BRCA1/2 mutations had significant improvements than non-carriers in PFS ( p =0.047). No significant impacts were found between various mutation status in OS outcomes. No significant differences were found between BRCA1 or BRCA2 and non-carriers in PFS or OS. ConclusionThere is a high incidence of germline and tumor BRCA1/2 PVs in Chinese TNBC patients with less than or equal to 55 years old. Tumor BRCA1/2 PV carriers showed an improved survival outcome. Our results suggest that BRCA1/2 PVs testing addressed within each specific clinical scenario could be more cost-effective for patients.