bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gm12664-201, A Pseudogene-Transcribed RNA Promotestriglyceride Accumulation Via Activating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathway in Hepatocytes
Authors: Zhao Yanhe , Tian Zhen , Jia Yubing , Shi Dan , Wang Xinyue , Sun Changhao , na lixin
Published: May 2021

Background: Typical pseudogenes expressions have been reported to been associated with liver diseases. However, whether pseudogenes contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and triglyceride (TG) accumulation and the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. We aimed to elucidate the role of Gm12664-201 in TG accumulation and the potential mechanism.Method and Results: We identified Gm12664-01 in high-fat diet (HFD) fed mice using microarray and confirmed its expression in both vivo and vitro high fat models with quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Then changed the level of Gm12664-201 in vitro to determine the role of it in TG accumulation, which evaluated by Oil red O staining and enzymatic method. The underlying mechanisms of Gm12664-01 in TG accumulation were investigated by detecting signaling markers BiP, PERK, ATF6, CHOP, eIF2α, XBP1 and ATF4 with qRT-PCR and western blotting. We found that Gm12664-201 was markedly increased in liver tissue of HFD mice and steric acid (SA) incubated AML-12 cells. Gm12664-201 overexpression rendered AML-12 cells susceptible to triglyceride (TG) accumulation, and silencing pseudogene Gm12664-201 expression efficiently alleviated SA-induced TG accumulation. Further studies revealed that Gm12664-201 regulates endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling markers BiP, PERK, ATF6, CHOP, eIF2α, XBP1 and ATF4 expression, which may be responsible for increased TG accumulation in hepatocytes.Conclusions: Upregulation of pseudogene Gm12664-201 induced by HFD promotes triglyceride accumulation and activates ER stress pathway in hepatocytes.
A molecularly engineered, broad-spectrum anti-coronavirus lectin inhibits SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV infection in vivo
Authors: Markovitz David , Chan Jasper , Oh Yoo Jin , Yuan Shuofeng , Chu Hin , Yeung Man Lung , Canena Daniel , Chan Chris , Poon Vincent , Chan Chris , Zhang Jinxia , Cai Jian-Piao , Wen Lei , Chik Kenn Ka Heng , Shuai Huiping , Wang Yixin , Hou Yuxin , Luo Cuiting , Chan Wan-Mui , Sit Ko-Yung , Au Wing-Kuk , Legendre Maureen , Zhu Rong , Hain Lisa , To Kelvin , Chan Kwok-Hung , Thomas Dafydd , Klausberger Miriam , Stadlmann Johannes , Penninger Josef , Oostenbrink Chris , Hinterdorfer Peter , Yuen Kwok-Yung
Published: May 2021

Coronaviruses have repeatedly crossed species barriers to cause epidemics1. “Pan-coronavirus” antivirals targeting conserved viral components involved in coronavirus replication, such as the extensively glycosylated spike protein, can be designed. Here we show that the rationally engineered H84T-banana lectin (H84T-BanLec), which specifically recognizes high-mannose found on viral proteins but seldom on healthy human cells2, potently inhibits the highly virulent MERS-CoV, pandemic SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, and other human-pathogenic coronaviruses at nanomolar concentrations. MERS-CoV-infected human DPP4-transgenic mice treated by H84T-BanLec have significantly higher survival, lower viral burden, and reduced pulmonary damage. Similarly, prophylactic or therapeutic H84T-BanLec is effective against SARS-CoV-2 in hamsters. Importantly, intranasally and intraperitoneally administered H84T-BanLec are comparably effective. Time-of-drug-addition assay shows that H84T-BanLec targets virus entry. Real-time structural analysis with high-speed atomic force microscopy depicts multi-molecular associations of H84T-BanLec dimers with the SARS-CoV-2 spike trimer. Single-molecule force spectroscopy demonstrates binding of H84T-BanLec to multiple SARS-CoV-2 spike mannose sites with high affinity, and that H84T-BanLec competes with SARS-CoV-2 spike for binding to cellular ACE2. Modelling experiments identify distinct high-mannose glycans in spike recognized by H84T-BanLec. The multiple H84T-BanLec binding sites on spike likely account for the activity against SARS-CoV-2 variants and the lack of resistant mutants. The broad-spectrum H84T-BanLec should be clinically evaluated in respiratory viral infections including COVID-19.
Procalcitonin Predicts Intensive Care Unit Admission and Mortality in Patients With a COVID-19 Infection in the Emergency Department
Authors: Tong-Minh Kirby , Does Yuri van der , Engelen Susanna , de Jong Evelien , Ramakers Christian , Gommers Diederik , Gorp Eric van , Endeman Henrik
Published: May 2021

IntroductionPatients with a severe COVID-19 infection often require admission at an intensive care unit (ICU) when they develop acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Hyperinflammation plays an important role in the development of ARDS in COVID-19. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a biomarker which may be a predictor of hyperinflammation. When patients with COVID-19 are in the emergency department (ED), PCT could be a predictor of severe COVID-19 infection. The goal of this study is to investigate the predictive value of PCT on severe COVID-19 infections in the ED. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study including patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection who visited the ED of Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, between March and December 2020. The primary endpoint was a severe COVID-19 infection, which was defined as patients who required ICU admission, in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality after hospital discharge. PCT levels were measured during the ED visit. We used logistic regression to calculate the odds ratio (OR) of PCT on a severe COVID-19 infection, adjusting for bacterial coinfections, age, gender and comorbidities. ResultsA total of 332 patients were included in the final analysis of this study, of which 105 patients reached the composite endpoint of a severe COVID-19 infection. PCT showed an unadjusted OR of 4.19 (CI: 2.52-7.69) on a severe COVID-19 infection. Corrected for bacterial coinfection, the OR of PCT was 4.05 (2.45 – 7.41). Adjusted for gender, bacterial coinfection, age and comorbidities, PCT was still an independent predictor of severe COVID-19 infection with an adjusted OR of 3.82 (CI: 2.26-7.48).ConclusionPCT is a predictor of severe COVID-19 infections in patients with a COVID-19 infection in the ED. The routine measurement of PCT in patients with a COVID-19 infection in the ED may assist physicians in the clinical decision making process regarding ICU disposition when PCT levels are elevated.
WITHDRAWN: Nomegestrol Acetate or Chlormadinone Acetate Progestative Treatment in Women: Meningioma Behavior at Treatment Discontinuation
Authors: Florea Simona Mihaela , Boissonneau Sebastien , Passeri Thibault , Bernat Anne Laure , Mandonnet Emmanuel , Dufour Henry , Graillon Thomas , Froelich Sebastien
Published: May 2021

Background: Associations between progestins and meningiomas is now well established. While the link between cyproterone acetate (CA) and meningioma was thoroughly studied, there is far less available data regarding the link between chlormadinone acetate (CHA) or nomegestrol acetate (NA) and risk of intracranial meningiomaMethods: We are presenting a series of 28 patients diagnosed with single or multiple meningiomas while treated with CHA-NA, in which the clinical and radiological course were analyzed after treatment discontinuation.Results: 28 women, with a mean age of 56 years old, were diagnosed with one or multiple meningioma while being treated with either CHA or NA. After stopping treatment, 89.3% showed either tumor shrinkage or tumor stabilization on follow-up MRIs. Multiple meningiomas were more likely observed in patients with long periods of treatment (>10 years, p 0.03) and seem to have a better clinical course (p 0.01). Most of the lesions were located on the skull base (55.4%). Four patients with multiple meningiomas showed discordant tumors evolution, with some tumors growing while others were decreasing. Most of the growing meningiomas were either convexity or midline lesions and more posteriorly located. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated a significant percentage of tumor diminution or stabilization after NA and CHA discontinuation. Therefore, treatment discontinuation with close monitoring should be the first measure taken if urgent surgery is not indicated. However, our results seem to be less encouraging than previously described in patients treated by CA, with more patients showing tumor growth despite treatment discontinuation. Further studies are needed to differentiate the effect of the different progestins treatment on meningiomas.
18F-Fluorocholine-PET/CT for Localizing Hyperfunctioning Parathyroid Glands and Optimizing Surgical Treatment in Patients With Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Gass Jörn-Markus , Wicke Corinna , Mona Carolina , Strobel Klaus , Müller Werner , Metzger Jürg , Suter-Widmer Isabelle , Henzen Christoph , Fischli Stefan
Published: May 2021

PurposeHyperparathyroidism (HPT) is a common disorder. Cure can only be achieved by removal of all diseased glands. Exact localization of hyperfunctioning glands is of importance to prevent extensive surgical exploration. The number of false negative/inconclusive results in standard imaging techniques is high. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of 18F-Fluorocholine-PET/CT (FCH-PET/CT) and its sensitivity in patients with primary, secondary/tertiary and familial HPT with negative and/or discordant findings in ultrasound and/or 99mTc-sestamibi scintigraphy/SPECT/CT.Methods96 patients with HPT and negative/equivocal conventional imaging were referred for FCH-PET/CT. 69 patients who have undergone surgery and histopathologic workup were analyzed in this retrospective single institution study. 60 patients suffered from primary HPT, 4 from secondary or tertiary HPT and 5 from familial HPT. Sensitivities, positive predictive values, and accuracies were calculated.ResultsAll patients showed normalized serum calcium levels in the postoperative period. The follow-up rate was 97%. 58 of 60 patients with primary HPT and 4 of 4 patients with secondary/tertiary HPT showed normal calcium- and PTH-levels after 6 months and were cured. 4 of 5 patients with familial HPT were cured. Sensitivity/positive predictive value (PPV) per lesion for primary HPT was 87.5/98.3%, for secondary/tertiary HPT 75/100% and for familial HPT 14.6/100%, respectively. Sensitivity/PPV per patient was 91.5/98.2% for primary HPT, 100/100% for secondary/tertiary HPT and 50/100% for familial HPT, respectively.ConclusionDiagnostic accuracy of 18F-Fluorocholine-PET/CT for patients with pHPT is excellent. 18F-Fluorocholine-PET/CT is a valuable tool for endocrine surgeons to optimize the surgical treatment of patients with hyperparathyroidism.
Sustainable Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) Extraction Protocol Selection Using AHP-GRA
Authors: Requiso Princess , Nayve Fidel Rey P. , Ventura Jey-R Sabado
Published: May 2021

In this study, a sustainable protocol for PHA extraction was methodically selected using two (2) multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) tools, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and grey relational analysis (GRA). AHP was first used to evaluate the proposed criteria categorized into technical, economic, and environmental aspects using a collected survey of pairwise comparisons. Based on the results of AHP, it was identified that both environmental and economic aspects were given higher priorities. Among the criteria, hazards and risks has the highest overall importance, followed by extraction cost and purity. Using GRA, twelve (12) protocol alternatives categorized into solvent extraction and precipitation, non-PHA cell mass (NPCM) digestion, and assisted extraction methods were graded according to the criteria. Overall, the highest priority weights were given to NPCM digestion protocols including sodium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide + sodium dodecyl sulfate, and ammonia water. The reagents involved in these protocols are ecologically benign and cheaper compared to other solvents; hence, the higher grades in the environmental and economic aspect. Sensitivity analysis also proved that these protocols are excellent, particularly if extraction cost is given a higher priority. However, if hazards and risks and purity were given more importance, butyl acetate is preferable than sodium hydroxide. Further investigations such as the validation and optimization of protocols, together with feasibility studies and life cycle analyses may be integrated with the results of this study to comprehensively determine a sustainable PHA extraction protocol.
Improvement of Inflammation and Pain After Three Months’ Exclusion Diet in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Teresa Guagnano Maria , Chiara D’Angelo , Daniela Caniglia , Eleonora Celletti , Sabatini Emanuela , Lorenza Speranza , Marco Bucci , Francesco Cipollone , Paganelli Roberto
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease affecting the synovial joints and causing severe disability. Environmental and lifestyle factors, including diet, have been proposed to play a role in the onset and severity of RA. Dietary manipulation may help, to manage the symptoms of RA, by lowering inflammation, and potentially decreasing pain.Methods: In 40 patients with long standing RA, with stable symptoms, and treated with conventional (c-) and biological (b-) Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), the effect of 3-months’ diet avoiding meat, gluten, and lactose (privative diet) was evaluated in comparison with a control balanced diet including those foods. Patients choosing the exclusion diet were followed in parallel to an equal number of patients on their normal diet, and RA was clinically assessed at Time 0 (T0), through the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), for pain, and the Disease Activity Score of 28 joints (DAS 28) for RA activity. Patients were also administered the Short Form Health survey (SF-36) and the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). At T0 a blood sample was collected for laboratory tests, and anthropometric measurements were recorded. These evaluations were repeated at the end of the 3 months’dietary regimens.Results: A significant decrease in VAS and the improvement of the overall state of physical and mental health, assessed through SF-36, was observed in patients following the avoidance diet. Both dietary regimens resulted in the improvement of quality of life compared to baseline values, however the change was significant only for the exclusion diet. With either diet, patients showed significant decreases of body weight and body mass index (BMI), with a reduction of waist and hips circumferences, lower basal glucose and circulating leptin levels. Exclusion diet was also able to significantly reduce systolic (SYS) (p=0.002) and diastolic (DIA) (p=0.027) arterial pressure. The number of circulating leukocytes and neutrophils, and the level of hs-C-Reactive Protein (CRP) were also significantly decreased after 3 months of the meat-, lactose, and gluten-free diet.Conclusions: Our results suggest that an exclusion diet can result in a better control of inflammation and pain in RA patients under stable optimized drug treatment.
Exosomes from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells can promote fibroblasts proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis via activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during wound healing
Authors: An Yu , Li Cong , Xu Quanchen , Sun Yu , Wang Zhiguo
Published: May 2021

Background

Differentiation, migration, proliferation of skin fibroblasts are identified as the key factors during the cutaneous wound healing. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) have been recorded as possible candidates for wound treatment because of their positive effect on the regeneration of many tissues. Exosomes derived from ADMSCs (ADMSC-Exos), an important signal transduction substance secreted by ADMSCs, have a similar role to ADMSCs in wound healing. However, the effects of ADMSC‐Exos on cutaneous wound healing remain to be unclear. In this study, we tried to explore the role and mechaninsm of ADMSC‐Exos during cutaneous wound healing.
Methods

Human skin fibroblasts (HSF) and ADMSCs were isolated from skin and adipose tissues of healthy person. ADMSC-Exos were purified from human ADMSCs culture medium by differential ultracentrifugation and identified by Electron microscopy, Nanoparticle tracking, and Western blotting assay. Fibroblasts were treated with different concentrations of ADMSC‐Exos. The proliferation and migration abilities of fibroblasts were analyzed by CCK-8 assay and scratch method. The synthesis of collagen type I (Col-I), collagen type III (Col-III), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in fibroblasts was assessed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting assay. A tensional wound model on rat back was used to evaluate the effect of ADMSC-Exos on wound healing. The expression levels of Wntb2 and β-catenin were analyzed by Western blotting and immunohistochemical assay.
Results

ADMSC-Exos were successfully obtained. ADMSC-Exos could significantly promote the migration and proliferation ability of fibroblasts in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. Compared with the treatment without ADMSC-Exos, the expression levels of Col-I and Col-III in fibroblasts treated with ADMSC-Exos were significantly increased, while the expression level of α-SMA is decreased. Besides, the enhanced expression of Wnt2b and β-catenin proteins confirmed the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Conclusions

ADMSC-Exos can promote fibroblasts proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis in a dose-dependent manner and may play a positive role in skin wound healing through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. So our study elucidates part of the mechanism of ADMSC-Exos in wound healing, which illustrates the therapeutic potential of ADMSC-Exos as a new therapeutic approach to promote skin wound healing.
Effects of Sex and Weather on the Risk of Incidence of Anti-EGFR Therapy-Induced Rash in Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Study.
Authors: Arai Takahiro , Fujita Yukiyoshi , Imai Hisao , Matsumoto Hiroe , Yamazaki Miho , Hiruta Eriko , Suzuki Yuka , Ojima Hitoshi , Hosaka Hisashi , Minato Koichi , Saito Taeko
Published: May 2021

Seasonal climatic changes may affect the development of the rash that is characteristic of treatment with anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibodies. This study evaluated the association between seasons and rash incidence among patients with cancer in Japan. Data of patients with colorectal or head and neck cancer treated with cetuximab or panitumumab during summer (S group; N = 34) or winter (W group; N = 37) between June 2014 and February 2019 were collected to retrospectively examine patient characteristics and rash incidence for ≤8 weeks after treatment initiation. Rashes were observed in 73.5% (N = 25) and 78.4% (N = 29) and grade 3 rashes were observed in 17.6% (N = 6) and 2.7% (N = 1) of the patients in the S and W groups, respectively, indicating higher rash incidence during summer (p = 0.09). Incidence of grade ≥2 rash in men in the S group was higher than that in the rest of the patient groups (p < 0.01), suggesting that rashes were more severe in men during summer. The higher incidence of skin rashes in men during summer might be attributed to the effects of ultraviolet light, lack of skincare, male hormones, and secretion of anti-EGFR antibodies in sweat. These findings highlighted the need for research on preventive measures for such rashes.
Non-Transgenic Functional Rescue of Neuropeptides
Authors: DiLoreto Elizabeth , Reilly Douglas , Sriniva Jagan
Published: May 2021

Animals constantly respond to changes in their environment and internal states via neuromodulation. Neuropeptide genes modulate neural circuits by encoding either multiple copies of the same neuropeptide or different neuropeptides. This architectural complexity makes it difficult to determine the function of discrete and active neuropeptides. Here, we present a novel genetic tool that facilitates functional analysis of individual peptides. We engineered Escherichia coli bacteria to express active peptides and fed loss-of-function Caenorhabditis elegans to rescue gene activity. Using this approach, we rescued the activity of different neuropeptide genes with varying lengths and functions: trh-1, ins-6, and pdf-1. While some peptides are functionally redundant, others exhibited unique and previously uncharacterized functions. The mechanism of peptide uptake is reminiscent of RNA interference, suggesting convergent mechanisms of gene regulation in organisms. Our rescue-by-feeding paradigm provides a high-throughput screening strategy to elucidate the functional landscape of neuropeptide genes regulating different behavioral and physiological processes.
Study on the Linear Vanishing Section Ratio of Earthen Sites and Anthropogenic Influence from the Perspective of Population Density
Authors: Du Yumin , Chen Wenwu , Cui Kai , Dong Wenqiang , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Qiyong
Published: May 2021

Having extremely high artistic, scientific and social values, earthen sites are widely distributed in China, which are important cultural relic resources of mankind. Due to accumulated natural erosions and human activities, however, earthen sites have been greatly damaged and have even vanished many sections, so that they are seriously threatened by extinction. In the circumstances, acquiring the conservation status of earthen sites is a vital prerequisite for the subsequent targeted protection. In this paper, as a world-renowned heritage site, the castles of the Ming Great Wall located in Qinghai Province were selected as the research object. A novel indicator namely the linear vanishing section ratio (L-VSR) was proposed and its value was classified as five levels to quantitatively characterize the specific conservation status of such sites. Based on the assessment results, the castles at the excellent status constituted the minimum proportion, while the castles at the very poor status represented the largest percentage, reflecting the grave situation of earthen sites. Furthermore, applying population distribution models into the linear fitting combined with the population density (PD), the positive correlation between PD and L-VSR was obtained to reveal the anthropogenic influence on the destruction of earthen sites. This study provides a new thought to quantitatively characterize the preservation conditions of earthen sites and also indicates the effect of human activities on the damage of earthen sites from the population perspective. Hence, it is beneficial to the overall damage assessment of earthen sites, and also meaningful to their further preservation and protective planning.
Clinical significance and intestinal microbiota composition in immunocompromised children with norovirus gastroenteritis
Authors: Lin Pei-Chun , Chen Shu-Huey , Yang Yu-Chen , Lin Sheng-Chieh , Lu Meng-Che , Tsai Yin-Tai , Lu Shou-Cheng , Chen Shih-Yen
Published: May 2021

Our study aims to figure out the clinical differences and distribution of intestinal microbiota in immunocompromised children with norovirus (NoV) gastroenteritis. Pediatric patients admitted to Shang-Ho Hospital with diagnosis of acute gastroenteritis with different immune status were enrolled and their medical records were reviewed. NoV gastroenteritis was validated using RT-PCR molecular methods. Viral shedding period was determined by real-time RT-PCR assays. Intestinal microbiota enrichment analysis was carried out by next generation sequencing with Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) Effect Size (LEfSe) method. Significantly higher frequency [mean, (IQR), 3.8 (3–5) /day] and longer viral shedding time [mean, IQR, 8.5 (5–13) days] was found in immunocompromised NoV infections than in immunocompetent patients without NoV infections (P = 0.013) and immunocompetent patients with NoV infections (P = 0.030). The fever prevalence was significantly lower in immunocompromised NoV infections. Comparative metagenomics analysis showed a significant difference in richness at the phylum level, the family level, and the genus level in patients under different immune status. We evaluated the clinical significances and microbiota composition in immunocompromised children with norovirus gastroenteritis. This will futher facilitate studies regarding the intestinal microbiota in such patients in determination of bacterial infection control and probiotic supplements strategy.
Famotidine and Celecoxib COVID-19 Treatment Without and With Dexamethasone; Retrospective Comparison of Sequential Continuous Cohorts
Authors: Malone Robert W , Tomera Kevin M , Egbujiobi Leo , Kittah Joseph K
Published: May 2021

We seek to rapidly identify, test and develop combinations of repurposed drugs to enable cost-effective treatments that reduce the risk of disease or death from SARS-CoV-2 infection. We hypothesize that the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19 reflects overactive host inflammatory responses to infection and is not principally due to the primary direct cellular, organ and tissue damage attributable to viral infection. Stepwise clinical development has identified the combination of High Dose (HD) famotidine and celecoxib (famcox) as a promising adjuvant anti-inflammatory protocol. We now report results from a retrospective observational comparative cohort study designed to provide an estimate of the potential benefits, risks, prognosis and diagnostic laboratory findings associated with administration of dexamethasone in addition to famcox for treatment of newly hospitalized COVID-19 disease in a community hospital setting. Study enrollment was restricted to patients at WHO 4–5. In the group receiving adjuvant treatment with famcox without dexamethasone (active control) there were no deaths during hospitalization (0/18 = 0% mortality). A total of six deaths occurred in the group receiving famcox + dexamethasone (6/21 = 29% mortality). There was a significant difference in mortality between the two groups, Χ2 (1, N = 43) = 7.305, p < 0.007. Median time to event for reaching WHO score of < 4 was 3.5 days in the control group (famcox (–) dex) versus 10 days for the experimental group (famcox (+) dex) P < 0.001. We conclude that use of the potent non-specific anti-inflammatory corticosteroid dexamethasone in addition to the specific anti-inflammatory famcox protocol should only be considered in late stage COVID-19 disease in patients less than 70 years of age. The effects of added dexamethasone on laboratory biomarkers, and particularly on neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio raise concerns about the long-term effects of dexamethasone treatment with or without famcox during acute COVID-19 on the incidence and severity of chronic COVID (“long COVID” or PASC).
Biodiesel production from vegetable oil refinery waste using ohmic-assisted esterification
Authors: Alishahi Afsaneh , NIAKOUSARI MEHRDAD , Golmakani Mohammad Taghi
Published: May 2021

The ohmic-assisted esterification method was compared and contrasted with the conventional esterification method for biodiesel (fatty acid methyl esters) production from vegetable oil refinery waste containing high free fatty acids. The reaction variables were free fatty acid:methanol molar ratio (1:1, 1:5, 1:10, and 1:15), catalyst concentration (1%, 2%, and 3%) and reaction time (5, 30, and 60 min). By increasing the conversion yield of free fatty acids to fatty acid methyl esters, density increased while viscosity and refractive index decreased. Optimum reaction conditions were a molar ratio of 1:10 and a catalyst concentration of 3% after 60 min of esterification reaction, while having a 95.74% conversion yield. There was no significant difference between fatty acid methyl esters produced with ohmic-assisted esterification and conventional esterification methods in terms of fatty acid profile, physicochemical and heating properties. Meanwhile, energy consumption by the conventional esterification method was about 25% higher than that of ohmic-assisted esterification. In fact, ohmic-assisted esterification can be considered as a green, cost-effective alternative method for the production of biodiesel from vegetable oil refinery waste.
Removal of methyl orange from from aqueous solutions using of PANI and PANI@Activated Carbon: Preparation, characterization, regeneration and comparative study
Authors: Bekhoukh Amina , Moulefera Imane , Zeggai Fatima Zohra , Abdelghani Benyoucef , Bachari Khaldoune
Published: May 2021

This work investigated the elimination of Methyl Orange (MO) using a new adsorbent prepared from Activated Carbon (AC) with polyaniline reinforced by a simple oxidation chemical method. The prepared materials were characterized using XRD, TGA, FTIR and nitrogen adsorption isotherms. Furthermore, PANI@CA highest specific surface area values (near 332 m2.g− 1) and total mesoporous volume (near 0.038 cm3.g− 1) displayed the better MO removal capacity (192.52 mg.g− 1 at 298 K and pH 6.0), which is outstandingly higher than that of PANI (46.82 mg.g− 1). Besides, the process's adsorption, kinetics, and isothermal analysis were examined using various variables such as pH, MO concentration and contact time. To pretend the adsorption kinetics, various kinetics models, the pseudo first- and pseudo second- orders, were exercised to the experimental results. The kinetic analysis revealed that the pseudo second order rate law performed better than the pseudo first order rate law in promoting the formation of the chemisorption phase. In the case of isothermal studies, an analysis of measured correlation coefficient (R2) values showed that the Langmuir model was a better match to experimental results than the Freundlich model. By regeneration experiments after five cycles, acceptable results were observed.
Automatic Railway Gate Control System Using Arduino Controller
Authors: Rajan Deva
Published: May 2021

The present work attempts to automate the opening and closing of gates at a railway level crossing. In general, level crossing gates are operated manually by a gate keeper. The gate keeper receives the information about the train arrival from a near station. When the train starts to leave the station, the station in-charge delivers this information to the closest gatekeeper to get ready. This human intervention can be avoided by automating the process. In situations where the train is late due to some reason, the gates remain closed for long durations causing dense traffic jam near the gates. This too can be prevented by automation. The proposed system uses infrared sensors to detect the arrival and departure of trains at the railway level crossing and Arduino to control the opening/closing of gates. The system uses two IR sensors to detect the arrival of the train and a third IR sensor to detect the departure of the train. When the arrival of the train is sensed, signals are provided to the traffic indicating the arrival of the train on the track. When the second sensor detects the train then the signal turns red and the motor operates to close the gate. The gate remains closed until the train completely moves away from the level cross. When the departure of the train is detected by the third sensor, the traffic signal turns green and the motor operates to open the gate. Thus automation of the gate operations at the railway level cross is achieved using sensors.
Comparison of a tube core and Magill forceps for nasotracheal intubation: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hu Rui , Niu Jing-Yi , Wu Li-Ning , Sun Hao , Sun Peng , Huang Jia-Ying , Yu Jun-Ma
Published: May 2021

Background: Magill forceps are frequently used to complete nasotracheal intubation (NTI). We aimed to identify a tube core that could conveniently facilitate the NTI process without using Magill forceps.Methods: Sixty patients scheduled for oral and maxillofacial surgeries were enrolled in our study and divided into two groups (30 per group) with no differences with regard to demographic data. In the Magill forceps group (Group M), a wire-reinforced endotracheal catheter was inserted into the trachea using Magill forceps. However, in the tube core group (Group T), a tube core bent to the physiological curve of the nasal cavity and lubricated with aseptic paraffin oil was inserted into the endotracheal catheter and was then withdrawn after the endotracheal catheter was advanced through the glottis under direct vision.Results: All NTIs were completed successfully, and Magill forceps were not used on any patient in Group T. There was a significant difference in total NTI time between the two groups (Group M, 59.7 (5.1) sec vs Group T, 52.4 (3.1) sec). Mild epistaxis was observed in 6 patients in Group M and 5 patients in Group T (6/30 vs 5/30, respectively). No damage to oral tissue or teeth was observed in either group.Conclusions: We conclude that using a tube core, consisting of a disposable sterilised stylet, is a convenient choice for NTI.Trial registration: Patient enrolment was conducted after registration in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (www.Chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR1900027387). This trial was prospectively registered on 11 November 2019.
Noninvasive technology of photostimulation of lymphatic clearance of red blood cells from the mouse brain after intraventricular hemorrhage.
Authors: Li Dongyu , Liu Shaojun , Yu Tingting , Liu Zhang , Sun Silin , Bragin Denis , Shirokov Alexander , Navolokin Nikita , Bragina Olga , Kurths Juergen , Fedosov Ivan , Semyachkina-Glushkovskaya Oxana , Zhu Dan
Published: May 2021

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is the most fatal form of brain injury in adults and infants. However, therapy of IVH is very limited, and new strategies are needed to reduce hematoma expansion. For the first time, in our experiments on mice with IVH, we clearly demonstrate that transcranial low-level infra-red photostimulation (PS) accelerates the red blood cells (RBCs) evacuation from the ventricles that is associated with reducing the mortality in 1.57 times, improving emotional status and recovery of intracranial pressure. We revealed the mechanisms of PS-modulation of lymphatic contractility and tone of the lymphatic vessels underlying the lymphatic clearing functions. Our findings strongly suggest that PS-mediated stimulation of lymphatic clearance of RBCs can be a novel non-invasive, bedside, readily applicable, and commercially viable technology for the treatment of IVH.
THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL SECURITY ON THE COUNTRY'S ECONOMIC GROWTH: AN ANALYSIS OF PANEL DATA
Authors: Lyulyov A. , Reshetnyak Ya.
Published: May 2021

The realization of Ukraine's European integration aspirations and integration into globalization processes exacerbate the challenges and threats to the national economy in the segment of protection of social interests and especially in the context of the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. This raises several issues aimed at studying the theoretical and methodological, and applied aspects of the formation and development of social security at the level of the state and society, and at the level of the individual. In particular, the paper analyzes the essence and content of the concept of "social security", its types and forms of manifestation. Particular attention in the study is paid to determining the factors influencing the level of social security of the state, including through the prism of interaction on indicators of socio-economic development. A system of principles was defined on which the concept of sustainable economic growth through the prism of social security should be based, namely: the level of socio-economic development of the state, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders, improving the welfare of the population, compliance with state standards and social guarantees in the field of finance, patriotic education, completion of financial and administrative-territorial decentralization, implementation of gender-oriented policy at all levels of government, creation of appropriate working conditions, etc. Based on this, the main indicators that determine the state of social security were analyzed: level of education, level of welfare, the share of the working population, mortality rate, population growth rate, real GDP growth rate, and GDP per capita, etc. According to the results of the analysis, the problems of social security in a pandemic was identified and a set of recommendations aimed at forming a safe and progressive development of the country, increasing its competitiveness in the world economic arena, which will generally increase social guarantees and well-being as an individual and society as a whole.
A physical protocol for observers near the boundary to obtain bulk information in quantum gravity
Authors: Chowdhury Chandramouli , Papadoulaki Olga , Raju Suvrat
Published: May 2021

We consider a set of observers who live near the boundary of global AdS, and are allowed to act only with simple low-energy unitaries and make measurements in a small interval of time. The observers are not allowed to leave the near-boundary region. We describe a physical protocol that nevertheless allows these observers to obtain detailed information about the bulk state. This protocol utilizes the leading gravitational back-reaction of a bulk excitation on the metric, and also relies on the entanglement-structure of the vacuum. For low-energy states, we show how the near-boundary observers can use this protocol to completely identify the bulk state. We explain why the protocol fails completely in theories without gravity, including non-gravitational gauge theories. This provides perturbative evidence for the claim that one of the signatures of holography - the fact that information about the bulk is also available near the boundary - is already visible in the low-energy theory of gravity.
Identifying the need and potential of ecotourism in Nainital, India
Authors: Lad Ramdas
Published: May 2021

Nainital is a famous tourist destination of India, attracting hundreds of both domestic and foreign tourists every year. Some of the important places in the district are Nainital City, Hanumangarhi, Haldwani, Kaladhungi, Ramnagar, Bhowali, Ramgarh, Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal. However, Nainital also faces an unsure future, near-stripped of its natural heritage, invaded by vested interests. Moreover, it is converting into concrete jungles. There is an urgent need to embrace conservation of natural resources and to conserve and cherish the value of local traditions, customs and cultural heritage. Thus, ecotourism has a huge potential to attract tourists to Uttarakhand State without destroying or degrading the natural or cultural assets that the visitor has come to see. The primary data was collected using questioners filled mainly by tourists, chief executives, senior managers, mangers and other staff of the organizations. Statistical tools were used to analyze data. In addition, secondary data was taken from the various journals, books and research papers. It was revealed that ecotourism would provide employment and business opportunities to trained individuals of the state. Accordingly, conservation management and tourism activities may provide equitable, social and cultural benefits to men and women of Nainital community through education, training and creation of full time employment opportunities.
Case study of leak detection based on Gaussian function in experimental viscoelastic water pipeline
Authors: Rezapour Iraj , Shafai Bejestan Mahmood , Aminnejad Babak
Published: May 2021

Leakage in transmission pipelines and water distribution networks causes water and energy loss and reduces water quality. The accuracy of leakage detection using transient-based methods depends on several factors. This study investigated the sensitivity of location and size of leaks in simple polyethylene transmission pipelines to dynamic parameters, flow regime, sample size, spatial-step increment, and leak size and location. For this purpose, a hydraulic transient solver was first developed to take into account the dynamic effects of unsteady friction, viscoelasticity of the pipe wall, and the leak. The leakage was assumed to function with a quasi-normal distribution around its real location to reduce problem dimensionality and unnecessary computations. This approach was evaluated based on experimental transient data in which leaks were simulated in different sizes and locations. Results revealed that the hydraulic transient model that includes only viscoelasticity effects could pinpoint leakage characteristics. The sample size evaluation indicated that half and a single period of the pressure signal are sufficient to determine the leakage location and size in simple viscoelastic transmission pipelines, respectively. The optimal ratio of the spatial step to pipe length (Δx/L) was 0.025.
USE IN ISOLATION STUDIES OF THE VIRTUAL AND AUGMENTED REALITY TECHNOLOGIES TO MODEL EGRESSES INTO OPEN SPACE WITHOUT TETHER
Authors:   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Bubeev Yu. , Usov V. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Kryuchkov B. ,   Gagarin Research and Test Cosmonaut Training Center, Star City, Moscow region, Altunin A. ,   Gagarin Research and Test Cosmonaut Training Center, Star City, Moscow region, Dolgov P. ,   Gagarin Research and Test Cosmonaut Training Center, Star City, Moscow region, Mikhaylyuk M. ,   Federal State Institution «Scientific Research Institute for System Analysis of the Russian Academy of Sciences», Moscow
Published: May 2021

Analysis of realistic prototypes of a propulsive survival backpack (PSB) and current human-PSB models gave impetus to the development of original tools for designing the scenery and PSB application scenarios with consideration of the VR and 3D experiences in isolation studies and operators' training. Specifically, the authors created several VR/AR scenarios of emergency egress for participants in isolation studies.
Some Aspects to the Rehabilitation of the Vernacular Adobe Architecture
Authors: Nemcsics Ákos , Ürmös Antal , Gröller György
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we are dealing with the heat-technical modeling, life cycle assessment and the conservation of the vernacular adobe wall house. One of our investigations is directed to the seasonal equalizing property of this wall structure. The reason of this choice of this topic can be found in the fact, that in the old Hungarian folk house construction, the abode wall was popular and a significant fraction of the people living in the countryside are still inhabit these old houses. The Hungarian winter is cold and followed normally by sizzling hot summer. The adobe wall construction is perfect for the local climatic conditions. Due to the on-going global warming up, the ecological importance of these wall constructions is becoming more prominent. Most of these adobe wall constructed houses are already under preservation order, due to their ecological significance and also because they are part of our culture heritage. Their conservation and maintenance problems are briefly described in the paper, too.
literature Review: Artificial Intelligence Impact on the Recruitment ProcessA LITERATURE REVIEW: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IMPACT ON THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Authors: FraiJ JihaD , László Várallyai
Published: May 2021

This paper aim is to review the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Human Resources Management (HRM) recruitment processes. A systematic review was adopted in which academic papers, magazine articles as well as high rated websites with related fields were checked. The findings of this study should contribute to the general understanding of the impact of AI on the HRM recruitment process. It was impossible to track and cover all topics related to the subject. However, the research methodology used seems to be reasonable and acceptable as it covers a good number of articles which are related to the core subject area. The results and findings were almost clear that using AI is advantages in the area of recruitment as technology can serve best in this area. Moreover, time, efforts, and boring daily tasks are transformed to be computerized which makes a good space for humans to focus on more important subjects related to boosting performance and development. Acquiring automation and cognitive insights as well as cognitive engagement in the recruitment process would make it possible for systems to work similarly to the human brain in terms of data analysis and the ability to build an effective systematic engagement to process the data in an unbiased, efficient and fast way.
COMPONENTS OF RIVER SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH COMMUNITY’S EXPERIENCES IN RIVERSIDE NEIGHBOURHOOD
Authors: Firdaus Rohana Mohd , Rasidi Mohd Hisyam , Said Ismail
Published: May 2021

Communities of a riverside neighbourhood are essential in developing rivers into a sustainable environmental feature. However, their lack of awareness towards flooding and river pollution interferes with the river’s sustainability. The disconnection with nature impairs sustainability; consequently, the river’s value degrades. The awareness can be improved upon by focusing on riverside neighbourhoods. The residents would have some level of awareness due to living sustainably with the river environment. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the living experiences of a riverside neighbourhood’s residents from a social perspective. Data were obtained through semi-structured questionnaires given to 121 residents, a focus group discussion and personal interviews. The questionnaires’ responses were exported and analysed using Principal Component Analysis in SPSS to identify significant components that were pertinent to the aim. Six components were found and were clarified into three themes: ‘river issues’, ‘river management’ and ‘river neighbourhood as a shared environment’. It has been found that exposure to river issues resulted in the residents exercising their resources to overcome those issues, and the cooperation between the residents and the stakeholder was essential in maintaining and achieving a sustainable river environment. The residents’ connection with their neighbourhood was exemplified through their familiarity and neighbourliness. In conclusion, insight into the residents’ experiences would provide a better understanding of river neighbourhoods, which stakeholders could consider in decision-making and planning to ensure the connection with nature is sustained.
Predicción temporal del número de muertes por lesiones causadas por tránsito en Estados Unidos
Authors: Rodríguez-Velásquez Javier , González-Bernal María Alejandra , Ruiz-Gómez Adiela , Guzmán-de la Rosa Esmeralda , Pallejá-Lopez Daniel , Barrios-Arroyave Freddy , Valero-Alvarado Oscar , Soracipa-Muñoz Ribká , López-Sardoth Nathalia , Rodríguez-Hernandez Jorge
Published: May 2021

Los estudios realizados hasta el momento sobre el comportamiento de los accidentes de tráfico han sido descriptivos; sin embargo, este comportamiento al ser estudiado como un sistema dinámico cuya evolución es predecible en el tiempo ha llevado al diseño de una nueva metodología matemática la cual establece órdenes a una aparente imprevisibilidad, el objetivo del presente estudio es predecir mediante la dinámica probabilística de caminata aleatoria y probabilidad. de la tasa de mortalidad por accidentes de tránsito en los Estados Unidos al 2013. El comportamiento de la tasa de mortalidad por accidentes de tránsito en los Estados Unidos se analiza para el período 1994-2012 desde un contexto físico y matemático, estableciendo longitudes de análisis probabilístico y probabilístico de cuatro espacios, para determinar relativo un aumento anual consecutivo y disminuciones que es la tasa de fatalidades probable tránsito 2013. En el 2013 Estados Unidos informó que la tasa de mortalidad por accidentes de tránsito fue de 10,35 por 100.000 habitantes, el valor previsto fue de 10,6, logrando una tasa de éxito del 98% del valor real. El comportamiento dinámico de las víctimas mortales de tráfico en Estados Unidos, según un orden matemático de causalidad en el que fue posible predecir la tasa de víctimas mortales de tránsito para 2013.