bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-feeding interactions between human gut commensals belonging to the Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium genera when grown on dietary glycans
Authors: Fernandez-Julia Pedro , Commane Daniel M. , van Sinderen Douwe , Munoz-Munoz Jose
Published: March 2022

Elements of the human gut microbiota metabolise many host- and diet-derived, non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs). Intestinal fermentation of NDCs salvages energy and resources for the host and generates beneficial metabolites, such as short chain fatty acids, which contribute to host health. The development of functional NDCs that support the growth and/or metabolic activity of specific beneficial gut bacteria, is desirable, but dependent on an in-depth understanding of the pathways of carbohydrate fermentation. The purpose of this review is to provide an appraisal of what is known about the roles of, and interactions between, Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium as key members involved in NDC utilisation. Bacteroides is considered an important primary degrader of complex NDCs, thereby generating oligosaccharides, which in turn can be fermented by secondary degraders. In this review, we will therefore focus on Bacteroides as an NDC-degrading specialist and Bifidobacterium as an important and purported probiotic representative of secondary degraders. We will describe cross-feeding interactions between members of these two genera. We note that there are limited studies exploring the interactions between Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium, specifically concerning β-glucan and arabinoxylan metabolism. This review therefore summarises the roles of these organisms in the breakdown of dietary fibre and the molecular mechanisms and interactions involved. Finally, it also highlights the need for further research into the phenomenon of cross-feeding between these organisms for an improved understanding of these cross-feeding mechanisms to guide the rational development of prebiotics to support host health or to prevent or combat disease associated with microbial dysbiosis.
Design of Self-Balancing Tracing Bicycle for Smart Car Competition Case Under Engineering Education
Authors: Sui Jinxue , Wang Chunyang , Chen Minghong , Zuo Ping , Shen Siqing
Published: March 2022

Smart car is an academic competition held for cultivating college students' engineering ability in China for 16 years. To improve the performance of smart cars, this study integrates engineering education topics by introducing a smart car system with regard to the selection of key components, design of hardware and circuit boards, processing of sensor signals, as well as assembly, algorithms, and control. After completing this engineering education, students could achieve better results in the academic competition. According to the K model rules of the 16th smart car competition, a self-balancing autonomous tracking bicycle based on steering gear control is designed and developed. A gyroscope is used to detect the posture of the bicycle. It inductively receives the centerline of the track and then combined with the PID control algorithm realizes the autonomous tracking. The whole process from mechanical structure optimization and electronic circuit design to algorithm design, debugging, and competition runs through the CDIO of engineering education, realizing the cultivation of compound engineering innovative abilities.
valorisation des stocks viticoles au jour du fait générateur de l'impôt direct
Authors: Teston Christophe
Published: March 2022

Le bénéfice réel de l'exploitation agricole doit être déterminé et imposé selon les règles de droit commun, mais avec des règleset modalités adaptées aux contraintes et caractéristiques particulières de la profession agricole :- la lente rotation des capitaux, due au faible niveau de chiffre d'affaires par rapport au capital investi ;- la proportion exagérément importante des éléments non amortissables figurant au bilan;- l'irrégularité importante des revenus.L'entreprise agricole doit comprendre dans ses résultats imposables la variation de la valeur de leurs stocks au cours de l'exercice.Ces stocks comprennent les marchandises, les matières premières et fournitures consommables, les productions en cours, les produits intermédiaires, les produits finis, les produits résiduels et les emballages non destinés à être récupérés :- qui sont la propriété de l'entreprise à la date de l'inventaire ;- et dont la vente en l'état ou au terme d'un processus de production à venir ou encours permet la réalisation d'un bénéfice d'exploitation.La juste valorisation des stocks viticoles au jour du fait générateur de l'impôt direct devient une valeur d'ajustement du résultat imposable qu'il convient d'aborder.
Multicentric Study on the Effect of Rectal Ozone on COVID-19: the Spanish and Slovakian Experience.
Authors: Fernandez-Cuadros Marcos , Albaladejo-Florin Maria Jesus , Pérez-Moro Olga , Rodríguez-de-Cía Javier , Hernández Alberto , Alava-Rabasa Sandra , Mohammed Darraj , Gondzurova Alzbeta , Molnar Martin , Kulinova Monika , Vyletelka Juraj
Published: March 2022

Objective: To evaluate the effect of rectal Ozone (O3) in severe COVID-19 pneumonia in two different cohorts differing in location (Madrid vs Zilina), ethnicity (Slovakian vs Spanish cohorts) and age. Material and Methods: In a multicenter-study, 32 severe bilateral-COVID-19-pneumonia patients and (+) RT-PCR (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction) SARS-CoV-2 were evaluated (16 from each cohort). Primary outcomes: a) clinical (O2-saturation); b) biochemical (Lymphocyte-count, Fibrinogen, D-Dimer, Urea, Ferritin, LDH [lactate dehydrigenase], IL-6 and CRP [c-reactive protein]); and c) radiological improvement. Secondary outcomes: a) days-of-hospitalization, b) mortality-rate before discharge. The Ozone-protocol consisted of 10 sessions of intra-rectal Ozone, total dose 5.25 mg (150 mL volume, 35 g/ml concentration). The Standard-of-care protocol included O2 supply, antivirals (Remdesivir / Isoprinosine), corticosteroids (Dexamethasone / Metilprednisolone), monoclonal antibodies (Anakinra / Tocilizumab), antibiotics (Azytromicine), anticoagulants (Enoxaparine / Fraxiparine). Protocol was approved by Health Care Ethics Committee (Report 15/4/2020) of our Hospital and by Ethics Committee for Medical Investigation of La Princesa’s Hospital (ACTA CEIm 12/20, 28/5/20, Registry 4146). Results: Patients in Slovakian cohort were younger (53.38 vs 84.69 years). Grade of severity was worse in Spanish-cohort (4.78 vs 3.30 points). Length of stay was superior in Spanish-cohort (27.38 vs 10.07 days). Both cohorts improved O2-saturation and Lymphocyte-count. Inflammation biomarkers (Fibrinogen, D-Dimer, Urea, Ferritin, LDH, CRP and IL-6) decreased in both cohorts. In Spanish-cohort, Urea and Ferritin improvement was not significant (p>0.05), while in Slovakian-cohort, Urea, Fibrinogen and LDH were not significant (p>0.05) Radiological signs of bilateral pneumonitis decreased on both cohorts. Mortality was similar (12.5%). Conclusion: After Standard of care protocol, Rectal Ozone improved O2-saturation, decreased inflammation biomarkers and improved Taylor’s radiological scale in both cohorts. Although age, grade of severity and days of hospitalization were inferior in Slovakian cohort, mortality was similar in both cohorts, but inferior if compared to an external control cohort.
EVALUATING THE ICHNOFOSSIL TEREDOLITES AS AN INDICATOR OF SALINITY AND PALEOENVIRONMENT
Authors: BUNTIN R.C.C. , HASIOTIS S.T. , FLAIG P.P.
Published: March 2022

The ichnogenus Teredolites and the Teredolites Ichnofacies is an accepted proxy for marine influence in paralic to open marine depositional environments. Actualistic approaches and the process-ichnologic framework allow independent analysis of both quantitative and semiquantitative data to interpret the physicochemical conditions when Teredolites are present. Measurements collected in modern environments and Jurassic–Eocene successions produce a spatially and temporally robust dataset of 14,137 borings from 17 tracemaking genera. Life history strategies of extant tracemakers are reflected in Mesozoic borings, which allow reconstruction of paleosalinity. Trends extrapolated indicate four ecotones in modern paralic to nearshore settings, which can be identified into the Late Cretaceous. These zones display variation in boring metrics (length [L], width [W], L:W ratio, size diversity index), densities, and relative composition of Teredolites. Zone 1 represents upper estuary to tidally modified fluvial successions with salinities from 0.5–10 ppt (oligohaline to alpha-mesohaline). Zone 2 represents upper to central estuary successions with salinities from 10–19 ppt (beta-mesohaline to lower polyhaline). Zone 3 represents central to lower estuary successions with salinities from 15–30 ppt (beta-mesohaline to euhaline). Zone 4 represents backshore to open marine successions with salinities from 20–30+ ppt (polyhaline to euhaline). Boring metrics compared against identified fossil genera suggest high species richness in the Western Interior Seaway coincided with physical adaptations to compensate for interspecific competition—differences in reproduction style and media preferences at the time of settlement—in the Late Cretaceous.
The Russian Mindset and War: Between Westernizing the East and Easternizing the West
Authors: Fridman Ofer
Published: March 2022

Russia is the biggest country in the world, stretching from Vladivostok in the far east to Kaliningrad in the west. It bridges Europe and Asia not only in geographic terms, but also, as many social scientists observe, in its culture, society, and the way to think about the world. The Russian mindset is neither European nor Asian. Instead, it is a unique puzzle constructed from the ideas, habits, and practices of both. Therefore, this article argues that in an at- tempt to decode Russian strategic behavior, special attention should be given to the complex interplay in the Russian mind between both Western and Eastern ways of seeing things and interpreting events.
China’s Identity through a Historical Lens
Authors: Munro Neil
Published: March 2022

This article takes a strategic culture approach to describe China’s identity. It narrates how historical events of the past 150 years have shaped tensions between national feelings of superiority and inferiority, demands for development and equality, the thirst for freedom and longing for security, and China’s territorial ambitions and geopolitical reality. It then discusses China’s approach to two areas of potential conflict—Taiwan and the South China Sea. It concludes with reflections on Chinese ideas about international order.
The United Arab Emirates as a Case Study in Assessing Over-the-Horizon Nuclear Proliferation
Authors: Finlinson Katie C.
Published: March 2022

This article uses a comprehensive examination of Emirati strategic culture and its national role conception to examine the likelihood that the United Arab Emirates would pursue the possession of a nuclear weapons program. The article concludes that the UAE is predisposed to reject the pursuit and possession of nuclear weapons due to its dominant national role as a regional and global collaborator; the high value it places in its conventional military capabilities and alliance with the United States; Emirati identity as a regional leader in social and technological innovation with the intent to elevate the country beyond regional stereotypes of violence, repudiation of progress, and political Islam; and its unique perceptual lens on productive strategies for operating within Iran’s sphere of influence. Continued rejection of a nuclear weapons program hinges on U.S. engagement in the region, where the United States has a willing and like-minded ally.
High Precision Fluid Sampling for Gas Condensate Reservoirs and Facilities Concept Development
Authors: Akim Kabir , Ardian Nengkoda , Bokhamseen Senan
Published: March 2022

Fluid sampling and accurate PVT characterization is an important part of any field development planning and its long term management. Accurate characterization of the fluid gives confidence to project economics and can help avoid big losses due to improper facilities design and forecasting. In the oil & gas industry there is a lack of understanding in the requirements for high precision sampling for impurities and analytical methodologies to accurately characterize gas condensate for facilities design.

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the current industry sampling best practices and define a new workflow for reliable gas condensate and impurities characterization for facilities development during the exploration/delineation phase of a field's life. The proposed methodology is significantly impacted by reservoir fluid saturation pressure relative to the static reservoir and flowing bottomhole pressures. It allows better profiling of complex gas condensate impurities such as H2S, and its sulfur intermediate species like polysulfides and elemental sulfur, volatile organic sulfur species such as mercaptans and carbonyl sulfides, and as well as Mercury, Arsenic, Benzene Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene (BTEX), water, solids, N2, CO2, He, Radon. The application of the new proposed workflow provides accurate and reproducible PVT data sets for reservoir studies and facilities design.
First Application in Oman of New Single Stage Retarded Sandstone Matrix Acidizing
Authors: Qassabi Hajir , Rafliansyah Andika Putra , Falla Johnny , Al-Yaaribi Ahmed
Published: March 2022

The objective of matrix acidizing in sandstone reservoirs using acid systems that contains Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is to widen the pore throats and spaces in order to increase the permeability around the wellbore and also to remove formation damage. One of the major disadvantages of this acid system is the secondary and tertiary reactions, which may end up with precipitations that damage the formation. Because of this, pumping sufficient pre- flush and post-flush volumes of Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is critical to prevent such damaging reactions. However, the placement of such fluids still are a concern in multiple opened layers or long open intervals zones.

Stimulating sandstone reservoirs in the Southern fields of the Sultanate of Oman is very challenging, especially in those that exhibit relatively low permeability. These formations, based on petrology work, contains significant amount of clays and feldspars, which make it difficult in the designing process of the acid formulation. A new version of HF acid system was recently developed. It is specially formulated, so it does not require the addition of Hydrochloric acid (HCl) pre-flush. Because of this, it can be pumped as a single stage system. In addition, its higher reactivity allows deeper penetration and it has the ability to minimize secondary reactions and damaging precipitates.

Lab testing work was conducted to ensure the effectiveness of this single stage acid system. The results were promising as they show a good improvement in the rock permeability. These results were encouraging to carry field trials in the sandstone reservoirs in Oman Southern fields. Up to now, it has been pumped in these type of sandstones for oil producer wells and for water injector wells. The actual treatment using this system showed increased oil productivity by higher than 60% and higher than 80% in water injectivity.

This paper presents the testing, designing and pumping of the single stage acid system, as well as the comparison with the conventional HF acid system in Southern fields of Oman. It outlines the laboratory work and analysis done as well as the field trials.
Analysis of Flood Conveyance Capacity of Small and Medium-Sized River and Flood Managements
Authors: Ye Lei , Zeng Fanzhang , Jin Sifan , Gu Xuezhi , Guo Jun
Published: March 2022

Recent years have witnessed great losses caused by floods due to the unknown of rivers’ flood conveyance capacities, which make it difficult for floods management. In particular, flood conveyance capacities of small and medium-sized rivers are usually designed to meet the flood with a return period of 10 years but these rivers have not been paid enough attention. After years of scouring and siltation, the flood conveyance capacities of the rivers are unknown, and flood disasters caused by reservoir discharge are unpredictable. The aim of this research is to set a standardized research process to find out the actual flood conveyance capacities of small and medium-sized rivers. The hydrodynamic model is constructed and calibrated to evaluate the river’s flood conveyance capacity. The design flood data are used to make the simulation, and the flood conveyance capacity of the river channel is evaluated combined with the actual situation of the river. Then with water level observation points settled, the dynamic process of water level of the river channel can be grasped and real-time assessment of flood risk of the river can be done. Taking the downstream of Yingna River, a typical small and medium-sized river flowing into the ocean, as an example, the results showed that this standardized process can provide a reference for the analysis of flood conveyance capacity of small and medium-sized rivers.
Application of Transumbilical Paring & Retrieving Techniques in Laparoscopic Myomectomy
Authors: Kong Wei , Xiong Guangwu , Guo Peng , Li Xue , Shen Li , Yang Li , Xu Huicheng , Wang Jingbo
Published: March 2022

Background
To investigate the safety and effectiveness of Transumbilical Paring & Retrieving Techniques(TPRT) in conventional laparoscopic surgery(CLS).
Methods
From July 2020 and October 2021, referring to the establishment and repair technology of transumbilical laparoendoscopic single site surgery (TU-LESS), TPRT was applied in 111 cases of conventional laparoscopic myomectomy. The operation procedures include ordinary laparoscopic myomectomy and uterine suture, placing the endoscopic bag, bagging tumor, producing the umbilical incision, paring and retrieving tumor and repairing the umbilical incision. Under direct vision, The tumor in the specimen bag was removed by clamping, pulling and reducing through the umbilical incision.
Results
All operations were completed successfully. the average number of leiomyomas removed was 1.94 (range, 1–11). The mean tumor weight was 155.45g (range, 40–665). The mean total time of tumor removal process from placing the endoscopic bag and repairing the umbilical incision was 12.60min (range, 6–28). The mean VAS scores evaluated 1 day postoperatively was 2.59(range, 1–4). Most pathology revealed benign leiomyoma. No malignancy occurred in any of the cases. A total of 111 cases were followed up through outpatient visits or by telephone, and the average follow-up time was 7.55months (range, 1–16).The umbilical incisions healed well, and there were no complaints of umbilical discomfort.
Conclusion
Transumbilical Paring & Retrieving Techniques is safe, time saving, cost-efficient, and easy to learn.
Protective Effect of Cichorium Intybus Root Extract and Esculetin on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Pain and Inflammation in Male Mice: A Potential Role for Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and Interleukin-1β
Authors: Taleghani Behrooz Khakpour , Rasouli Aria Haji , Rostampour Mohammad , Ch Mojtaba Hedayati , Abedinzade Mahmood , Rohampour Kambiz , Ansar Malek Moien
Published: March 2022

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been widely used in animal modeling of inflammation-induced hyperalgesia. Proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) are involved in the pathogenesis of pain. Cichorium intybus (CI) contains many compounds which inhibit inflammatory mediators. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of CI root hydro-alcoholic extract (CE) and Esculetin (ESC) - a bioactive coumarin compound of CI- on LPS-induced pain and inflammation in male mice. CE constituents were evaluated by GC-MS. Two different concentration of CE (300 and 500 mg/kg/p.o.) and ESC (40 mg/kg/i.p.,o.) were used for experiments. Drugs were administered once daily for 7 days. On day 7, LPS (0.83 mg/kg/i.p.) was injected 30 min after the last drug administration. Blood samples were collected 90 min after LPS injection. Hot plate and formalin tests were performed 24 hours after LPS injection. Serum TNF-α and IL-1β levels were measured using ELISA. LPS significantly increased the response time of animals in hot plate and both phases of formalin tests. CE (300 and 500 mg/kg/p.o.) significantly reduced the response time in comparison with the LPS group in hot plate and both phases of formalin tests. CE (500 mg/kg/p.o.) reduced serum TNF-α and IL-1β levels. Esculetin increased the response time in hot plate and the second phase of formalin test compared to the LPS group and also decreased IL-1β level, significantly. Our results demonstrated that CE exhibited anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects better than esculetin. The probable mechanism of anti-hyperalgesic effect of CE is related to inhibition of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α.
Elevated Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance During Early Midpregnancy Predicts Higher Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tu Menghan , Sun Guoqiang , Wu Meng , Cao Xiyu , Zhang Xu , Tan Tianqi , Zhong Chunrong , Huang Li , Chen Renjuan , Zhou Xuezhen , Li Qian , Chen Xi , Lin Lixia , Yang Sen , Xiong Guoping , Yang Xuefeng , Hao Liping , Yang Nianhong
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical implication of metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) during early midpregnancy on subsequent risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in Chinese women.Methods: A total of 1747 pregnant women without pre-existing diabetes from the Tongji Maternal and Child Health Cohort (TMCHC) were included in this analysis. Blood glucose and lipid profiles (triglyceride [TG], total cholesterol [TC], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C] and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C]) were measured during 15-19 weeks and 75-g 2-h oral glucose tolerance test was conducted during 24-28 weeks to diagnose GDM. METS-IR was calculated by a modified formula which originally as follows: Ln(2×FPG[mg/dl]+TG[mg/dl])×BMI[kg/m2] /Ln(HDL-C[mg/dl]).Results: The median (interquartile range) of age was 28 (26-30) years, and 19.7% of them were underweight and 11.7% were overweight/obese before pregnancy. The overall incidence of GDM was 9.4% and median (interquartile range) of METS-IR was 27.36 (24.57-31.07). The median METS-IR was significantly increased with the increasing pre-pregnancy BMI categories (22.92 vs 27.72 vs 35.55, P＜0.001). Based on quartiles of METS-IR in women with normal pre-pregnancy BMI, participants were classified into 4 groups. Compared with women in the lowest quartile of METS-IR (＜25.52) , the adjusted RRs (95% CIs) of GDM were 2.15 (1.23-3.74), 1.34 (0.72-2.49), and 3.63 (2.22-5.95) for women in quartile 2 (25.52-27.71), quartile 3 (27.72-30.39) and quartile 4 (≥30.40) after adjusting potential confounds. In addition, a significant increase risk of GDM (adjusted RR [95% CI]: 2.55 [1.83-3.55]) was found in women within the highest quartile of METS-IR (≥30.40) compared to the other 3 lower quartiles (＜30.40).Conclusions: Women with METS-IR (≥30.40) during early midpregnancy were more likely to develop GDM, thus the index might be a reliable early indicator for identifying women at high risk of GDM.
Influence of Vibrotactile Random Noise on the Smoothness of the Grasp Movement in Patients With Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Osumi Michihiro , Sumitani Masahiko , Otake Yuko , Nishi Yuki , Nobusako Satoshi , Morioka Shu
Published: March 2022

[Purpose] Patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) often suffer from sensorimotor dysfunction of the distal portion of the extremities (e.g., loss of somatosensory sensation, numbness/tingling, difficulty typing on a keyboard, or difficulty undoing or doing up a button). The present study aimed to reveal the effects of subthreshold vibrotactile random noise stimulation on sensorimotor dysfunction in CIPN patients without exacerbating symptoms. [Methods] Twenty-five patients with CIPN and 28 age-matched healthy adults participated in this study. To reveal the effects of subthreshold vibrotactile random noise stimulation on sensorimotor function, participants were asked to perform grasp movement tasks during random noise stimulation delivered to the volar and dorsal wrist. We set three intensity conditions of the vibrotactile random noise: 0%, 60%, and 120% of the sensory threshold (Noise 0%, Noise 60%, and Noise 120% conditions). In the grasp movement task, the distance between the thumb and index finger was recorded while the participant attempted to grasp a target object, and the smoothness of the grasp movement was quantified by calculating normalized jerk in each experimental condition. The experimental data were compared using two-way repeated-measures analyses of variance with two binary factors: experimental condition (Noise 0%, 60%, 120%) × group (Healthy controls, CIPN patients).[Results] The smoothness of the grasp movement was only improved in the Noise 60% condition without exacerbating numbness/tingling in CIPN patients and healthy controls. [Conclusion] The current study suggested that the development of treatment devices using stochastic resonance can improve sensorimotor function for CIPN patients.[Trial registration] UMIN Clinical Trials Registry（UMIN-CTR）No. UMIN000024776https://rctportal.niph.go.jp/s/detail/um?trial_id=UMIN000024776#
Patient perceptions of decision-making and quality-of-life following surgical resection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A mixed methods study
Authors: Bleicher Josh , Place Aubrey , Harris Alex H.S. , Scaife Courtney L , Huang Lyen C
Published: March 2022

PURPOSE: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a highly lethal disease. Surgery represents the only opportunity for cure, but is accompanied by high rates of morbidity. Understanding patients’ lived experiences after surgical resection of PDAC is critical to knowing whether the decision to undergo surgery was worth it for these patients.METHODS: We performed a convergent, mixed-methods study with patients who underwent resection of PDAC between 01/01/2019-08/01/2020. Quantitative data (medical record review and 3 questionnaires) were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data (semi-structured interviews) were analyzed using the constant comparative method. Data were then compared for congruence.RESULTS: 18/22 eligible participants completed interviews and 11 completed questionnaires. Data collection occurred at a median of 14.2 months (IQR 11.6-16.3) from surgery. We identified 4 main themes. First, persistent negative symptoms were common for patients, but patients adapt to these and are satisfied with their “new normal.” Second, patients have varied and continually evolving mindsets throughout their cancer journey. Third, despite decreased quality-of-life, patients have a high degree of satisfaction with their decision to pursue surgery. Finally, patients were okay with a passive role in decision-making around surgery. Despite variable involvement in decision-making and outcomes, no participants reported regret over the decision to pursue surgery. CONCLUSION: This nuanced account of patients’ lived experiences following surgery for PDAC allows for an improved understanding of the impact of pancreatic resection on patients. Surgeons can use this data to improve preoperative counselling for patients with PDAC and help guide them to making the correct decisions about surgery.
Hemispherical Solar Distiller with Truncated Circular Cone-Shaped Reflector Mirrors ( TCC-RM) : Optimum inclination of Reflector Mirrors
Authors: Attia Mohammed El Hadi , kabeel abd elnaby , Elbar Ayman Refat Abd , Abdelgaied Mohamed , abdallah Abd elkader
Published: March 2022

The present study aims to achieve the highest cumulative yield of the hemispherical distillers, by designing and constructing new reflector mirrors, which are truncated circular cone-shaped reflector mirrors (TCC-RM). To obtain the optimum inclination of TCC-RM that achieves a highest hemispherical distiller’s performance, eight inclination angles (10o, 15o, 20o, 25o, 30o, 35o, 40o and 45o with vertical) was experimentally studied. To achieve this, a series of experimental tests were carried out on the three hemispherical solar distillers, the first represents the reference distiller (traditional hemispherical solar distiller- THSD) and the other two devices are the hemispherical solar distiller with truncated circular cone-shaped reflector mirrors (HSD-TCCRM) with different inclination angles. The experimental results indicate that utilizing TCC-RM with a 25o inclination angle achieves the maximum cumulative yield of 8.35 L/m2 with an improvement of 42.74% compared to THSD. While the utilization of TCC-RM with the inclination angles by 30o, 35o, 20o, 40o, and 15o achieves the cumulative yield of 7.9, 7.3, 7.05, 6.67, 6.6 L/m2 compared with 5.85 L/m2 for THSD. On the contrary, adjusting the inclination angle of TCC-RM at 10o, and 45o affects negatively the cumulative yield of the HSD with TCC-RM in comparison with THSD. Based on the data of cumulative yield, daily efficiency, and the economic analysis it’s recommended to utilize TCC-RM with a 25o inclination angle to achieve the highest performance and minimum distillate cost of hemispherical solar distillers.
Discovery of anti-Formin-like 1 Protein (FMNL1) antibodies in proteinuric nephropathies
Authors: Bruschi Maurizio , Cavalli Andrea , Moll Solange , Candiano Giovanni , Scapozza Leonardo , Patel Jigar J. , Tan John C. , Lo Ken C. , Angeletti Andrea , Ghiggeri Gian Marco , Prunotto Marco
Published: March 2022

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is determined by deposition of autoantibodies targeting glomerular podoyctes antigens. MN progression to renal failure remains a central issue: antibodies modifying the inflammatory course after the first antibody hit may be involved. We investigated sera of MN patient using a high-density peptide array covering the whole coding sequences of the human genome encompassing 7,499,126 tiled peptides. A panel of 258 proteins reactive with MN sera were identified. We focused on Formin-like 1 (FMNL1) protein expressed by macrophages. High levels of anti-FMNL1 IgG4 were demonstrated in sera of MN patient with orthogonal methodologies (ELISA) and were observed co-staining with CD68 in glomeruli. High levels of circulating anti-FMNL1 IgG4 were associated with lack of remission of proteinuria, strengthening the concept that, autoantibodies directed to cells of the tissue repair, might have a definite role in determining the disease outcome. High serum levels of anti-FMNL1 IgGs were also observed in other non-autoimmune glomerolonephrites, ie. idiopathic and genetic FSGS, IgAGN, stressing the non-specificity for MN and suggesting their involvement in glomerular conditions affecting many patients worldwide.
Early Predictors of Functional Outcome in Poor-Grade Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Authors: de Winkel Jordi , Cras Tim Y. , Dammers Ruben , Doormaal Pieter-Jan van , Jagt Mathieu van der , Dippel Diederik W.J. , Lingsma Hester F. , Roozenbeek Bob
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND
Patients with poor-grade aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) often receive delayed or no aneurysm treatment, although recent studies suggest that functional outcome following early aneurysm treatment has improved. We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze early predictors of functional outcome in poor-grade aSAH patients.
METHODS
We included studies investigating the association of early predictors and functional outcome in adult patients with confirmed poor-grade aSAH, defined as World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) grade or Hunt and Hess (H-H) grade IV-V. Studies had to use multivariable regression analysis to estimate independent predictor effects of favorable functional outcome measured with the Glasgow Outcome Scale or modified Rankin Scale. We calculated pooled adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with random effects models.
RESULTS
We included 27 studies with 3287 patients. The likelihood of favorable outcome increased with WFNS grade or H-H grade IV versus V (aOR 2.9, 95% CI 1.9–4.3), presence of clinical improvement before aneurysm treatment (aOR 3.3, 95% CI 2.0-5.3), and intact pupillary light reflex (aOR 2.9, 95% CI 1.6–5.1), and decreased with older age (aOR 0.7, 95% CI 0.5-1.0, per decade), increasing modified Fisher grade (aOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.3–0.5, per grade), and presence of intracerebral hematoma on admission imaging (aOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2–0.8).
CONCLUSIONS
We present a summary of early predictors of functional outcome in poor-grade aSAH patients that can help to discriminate between patients with favorable and with unfavorable prognosis and may aid in selecting patients for early aneurysm treatment.
Moderate Sedation with Single-Dose Remimazolam Tosilate in Elderly Male Patients Undergoing Transurethral Resection of the Prostate with Spinal Anesthesia: A Prospective, Single-Arm, Aingle-Centre Clinical Trial
Authors: Zhao Tang-yuan-meng , Chen DI , Sun Hu , Xu Zhi-xin , Lv Song , Wang Tao , Liu Li-li
Published: March 2022

Background
Remimazolam tosilate (RT) is a newly listed benzodiazepine for sedation and anesthesia featuring quick onset of effects, short maintenance and recovery times, which is currently under research. This trial was conducted to determine the median effective dose (ED50) and the 95% effective dose (ED95) of single-dose remimazolam for moderate sedation in elderly patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) under spinal anesthesia, and to evaluate its efficacy and safety.
Methods
Thirty male patients aged 65–80 years old were recruited for selective TURP. Remimazolam was administered intravenously to pain-free patients (VAS score < 1) within 1 min of successful spinal anesthesia by the same anesthesiologist. We used modified Dixon’s up-and-down sequential allocation method to determine the ED50 and ED95 of the agent with an initial dosage of 0.1 mg/kg. Successful sedation was defined as an MOAA/S score ≤ 3 and above 1. A score of > 3 was deemed as failed sedation. Recruitment continued until ten independent pairs (from successful sedation to failed sedation) would give a reliable estimation of the ED50 and ED95 of RT and their 95% confidence intervals.
Results
The ED50 of remimazolam was 0.063 (95% C.I. 0.045–0.073) mg/kg. Its ED95 was 0.079 (95% C.I. 0.07–0.137) mg/kg. Remimazolam was safe in its application.
Conclusions
A single-dose of RT proves to be safe for assisted sedation during TURP in elderly male patients under spinal anesthesia with a lower incidence of adverse events. Its ED50 and ED95 were 0.063 mg/kg and 0.079 mg/kg, respectively.
Trial registration:
http://www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2100051912)
Machine Learning Modelling for Prospective Parkinson’s Disease - the importance of inflammatory biomarkers and IGF1 - UKB study
Authors: Allwright Michael , Mundell Hamish , Sutherland Greg , Austin Paul , Guennewig Boris
Published: March 2022

INTRODUCTION We use the world-leading UK Biobank dataset (UKB) with over 500,000 participants and >10,000 variables across multiple data modalities to determine a ranking of candidate risk factors for Parkinson’s Disease (PD) without a priori assumption. METHODS The Integrated Disease Explanation and Risk Scoring platform (IDEARS) applies machine learning algorithms to multi-modal personalised health data to determine individual disease risk and interpret the most important risk factors using mean SHAP score. IDEARS is applied to the UKB to determine the risk factors for PD. RESULTS IDEARS showed an improved discriminative performance (AUC=0.744) compared to a model using known risk factors (0.727). Age and gender had the highest mean SHAP scores. IGF-1, bilirubin, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR, an inflammatory marker) and frailty factors were also ranked highly. A further investigation into IGF-1, bilirubin, AST:ALT and NLR showed elevated levels either in the period prior to diagnosis or at the point of diagnosis. DISCUSSION The IDEARS model outperformed an approach looking only at agreed risk factors despite making no a priori assumptions. Novel PD risk biomarkers including elevated IGF-1 and NLR are likely to play a role in disease mechanism. This panel of biomarkers may be used clinically to predict future PD risk, improve early diagnosis and to understand disease mechanism.
TGR5 agonists induce peripheral and central hypersensitivity to bladder distension
Authors: Caldwell Ashlee , Grundy Luke , Harrington Andrea , Garcia-Caraballo Sonia , Castro Joel , Bunnett Nigel , Brierley Stuart
Published: March 2022

The mechanisms underlying chronic bladder conditions such as interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) and overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) are incompletely understood. However, targeting specific receptors mediating neuronal sensitivity to specific stimuli is an emerging treatment strategy. Recently, irritant-sensing receptors including the bile acid receptor TGR5, have been identified within the viscera and are thought to play a key role in neuronal hypersensitivity. Here, in mice, we identify mRNA expression of TGR5 (Gpbar1) in all layers of the bladder as well as in the lumbosacral dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and in isolated bladder-innervating DRG neurons. In bladder-innervating DRG neurons Gpbar1 mRNA was 100% co-expressed with Trpv1 and 30% co-expressed with Trpa1. In vitro live-cell calcium imaging of bladder-innervating DRG neurons showed direct activation of a sub-population of bladder-innervating DRG neurons with the synthetic TGR5 agonist CCDC, which was diminished in Trpv1−/− but not Trpa1−/− DRG neurons. CCDC also activated a small percentage of non-neuronal cells. Using an ex vivo mouse bladder afferent recording preparation we show intravesical application of endogenous (5α-pregnan-3β-ol-20-one sulphate, Pg5α) and synthetic (CCDC) TGR5 agonists enhanced afferent mechanosensitivity to bladder distension. Correspondingly, in vivo intravesical administration of CCDC increased the number of spinal dorsal horn neurons that were activated by bladder distension. The enhanced mechanosensitivity induced by CCDC ex vivo and in vivo was absent using Gpbar1−/− mice. Together, these results indicate a role for the TGR5 receptor in mediating bladder afferent hypersensitivity to distension and thus may be important to the symptoms associated with IC/BPS and OAB.
Larval movement of Anticarsia gemmatalis (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) on vegetative and reproductive stage non-Bt soybean
Authors: Ongaratto Sabrina , Baldin Edson L. L. , Hunt Thomas E. , Luhr Nicole , Heier Kory R. , Robinson Emily A.
Published: March 2022

Integrated pest management (IPM) and insect resistance management (IRM) in a cropping system demands a comprehensive understanding of insect behavior, including larval movement. We evaluated the larval movement of velvetbean caterpillar, Anticarsia gemmatalis (Hübner), in a non-Bt soybean cultivar. Third to fifth instars were infested in different combinations in vegetative and reproductive soybean stages, and on-plant movement was characterized across select time points. The dispersion among plants in different positions and orientations was assessed by releasing 24-h-old larvae on the central plant of field plots. Results indicated that A. gemmatalis larvae are consistent in their movement during the day, regardless of plant section or leaf position. Over the time period of assessment, larvae gradually moved down and left the plant. Although there was not significant difference in the distance traveled by A. gemmatalis between orientations and positions, long distances were covered indicating that this species has nondirectional movement. This study provides relevant information regarding the movement of the velvetbean caterpillar, which can be used to improve insecticide spraying efficacy, improve probabilistic model predictive ability, and help design insect resistance management strategies.
Cooperative Boosting Performance of Halide Perovskite Solar Cells between Photoelectric and Thermoelectric Effect
Authors: Fu Ping , Lu Ruixue , Haque Md Azimul , You Enming , Li Hui , Chen Ruotian , Han Yaoyao , Yin Yanfeng , Qin Wei , Fan Fengtao , Wu Kaifeng , Baran Derya , Li Can
Published: March 2022

The sufficient utilization of longer-wavelength infrared light is a long-sought goal for efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs) since they convert into heat easily and destroy the device stability. Establishing thermoelectric effect on the same PSCs is supposed to be an efficient way to convert heat into electricity. However, whether thermoelectric effect exists during the photovoltaic process has never been concerned. Herein, we report that the FAP-based PSCs operated under temperature differences (ΔT=15 oC) afford a champion PCE of 25.74%, higher than 22.84% with ΔT=0 oC, along with an improved Voc from 1.17 V to 1.23 V. It’s demonstrated that integrating photoelectric and thermoelectric effects can magnify the solar-to-electricity conversion. The critical factors to success are utilizing adequately photocarrier in parallel with regulating the intrinsic carrier directional transport and facilitating the charge carriers’ collection. The work shed light on the synergistic contribution of photoelectric and thermoelectric effect to efficient PSCs.
Electric cookstove adoption and energy attitudes in rural Namibia: The role of youth and sustainability education in advancing household energy
Authors: Lindgren Samantha
Published: March 2022

Efficient cookstoves are popular solutions in international energy development for their presence in multiple Sustainable Development Goals. However, adoption of these devices remains a challenge. Among the barriers known to limit adoption is effective household communication, yet rarely are all stakeholders purposefully engaged in activities that support uptake and sustained use. The findings of two studies conducted in rural Namibia indicate that youth-oriented sustainability education is an effective communication tool in cooking energy development, and has the potential to shift attitudes and behaviours, within households and across communities. Households with children who participated in sustainability education programming were significantly more likely to prefer efficient fuels and be less committed to biomass cookstoves than similar families without such children. Further, a longitudinal study of children who attended the programming indicates that their preferences about common cooking fuels shifted toward sustainable ones, and that these changes persist over time.
Incidence of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy in 2019 in Japan: A second nationwide questionnaire survey
Authors: Takano Fumio , Ueda Kaori , Godefrooij Daniel A. , Yamagami Akiko , Ishikawa Hiroto , Chuman Hideki , Ishikawa Hitoshi , Ikeda Yasuhiro , Sakamoto Taiji , Nakamura Makoto
Published: March 2022

Background: Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is an acute or subacute optic neuropathy that mainly affects young males. The first nationwide epidemiological survey of LHON was conducted in 2014 in Japan, and LHON was officially designated as a rare intractable disease by the Japanese government in 2015. We conducted a second survey of the annual incidence of LHON in 2019, and estimated the total number of patients with LHON in Japan.Results: A questionnaire was sent to 997 facilities accredited by the Japanese Ophthalmological Society and/or affiliated with the councilors of the Japanese Neuro-Ophthalmology Society. Responses were received from 791 facilities, with a recovery rate of 79%. Fifty-six new cases (49 males and 6 females) of LHON were reported from 35 institutions in 2019, with a median age of 28.5 for males and 49.5 years for females. The total number of new cases was calculated as 69 (62 were males and 7 were females, 95% confidence interval 55–83), and the total number of patients was estimated to be 2,491 (95% confidence interval: 1996–2986), suggesting a prevalence of LHON in Japan of 1:50000. Conclusion: The incidence of LHON in 2019 was lower than the estimate in 2014, whereas its prevalence may be similar to that reported in other countries. The accurate estimation of the incidence and prevalence of patients with LHON requires prospective registration.
Effect of referral by community health workers on uptake of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy in Ohaukwu, Ebonyi State Nigeria: An analysis of individual level data from the maternity record booklet.
Authors: Orji Bright , Bryce Emily , Odio Bartholomew , Onuoha Herbert , Njoku Elizabeth , Anoke Charity , Ugwa Emmanuel , Enne Joseph , Oniyire Adetiloye , Otolorin Emmanuel , Afolabi Kayode , Ogbulafor Nnenna C. , Oliveras Elizabeth
Published: March 2022

Background: The World Health Organization recommends a minimum of three doses of quality-assured sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine for intermittent preventive treatment of malaria during pregnancy (IPTp), in moderate to high malaria transmission areas in sub-Saharan Africa. This treatment prevents malaria in pregnancy contributing to reduced maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. Currently, coverage of IPTp lags behind coverage of antenatal care (ANC) visits; in Nigeria, 57% of women attended four or more ANC visits, whereas only 17% received the recommended three or more doses of IPTp. The innovative program aimed to close this gap by providing counseling on the benefits of comprehensive ANC, referral to ANC and community distribution of IPTp (C-IPTp), complementing IPTp at ANC. Methods: The data for this study were extracted from the maternity record books for pregnant women at 25 public health facilities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The outcome of interest was defined as the receipt of three or more doses of IPTp (IPTp3) and the primary covariate was referral to ANC by a community health worker for any visit. Descriptive statistics were reported and the results from the multi-level regressions are reported as adjusted odds and prevalence ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Results: Of the 936 women included in the analysis, 24.47% received the recommended three or more IPTp doses and 61.32% were referred by a community health worker (CHW) for at least one ANC visit. There was no difference in the average number of ANC visits between women who received C-IPTp and those who received IPTp exclusively at a facility. There were no maternal characteristics associated with CHW referral. Women who were referred by a CHW had 60% greater odds (95% CI: 1.08-2.38) of receiving IPTp3 than those who were never referred. Conclusion: The results indicate that CHW referrals conducted within a C-IPTp program increase IPTp uptake without disrupting ANC attendance and that CHWs applied the referral process equally. This strengthens the evidence base for C-IPTp scale-up, which could have a large impact in sub-Saharan Africa in mitigating existing health systems issues.