bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Diabesity Middle Eastern Medicinal Plants and Their Action Mechanisms
Authors: Saad Bashar , Kmail Abdalsalam , Haq Sameena Z. H.
Published: July 2022

Over the last four decades, the escalation in diabetes and obesity rates has become epidemic all over the world. Diabesity describes the strong link between T2D and obesity. It correlates deeper with the elevated risks of developing cardiovascular disease hypertension, stroke, and several malignancies. Therapeutic usage of medicinal plants and natural products in the treatment of diabetes and obesity has long been known to physicians of Greco-Arab and Islamic medicine. Improved versions of their abundant medicinal plant-based formulations are at present some of the most popular herbal treatments used. Preclinical and clinical data about medicinal plants along with their bioactive constituents are now available, justifying the traditionally known therapeutic uses of products derived from them for the prevention and cure of obesity-related T2D and other health problems. The aim of this review is to systematize published scientific data dealing with the efficiency of active ingredients or extracts from Middle Eastern medicinal plants and diet in the management of diabesity and its complications. Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and PubMed were searched for publications describing the medicinal plants and diet used in the management of T2D, obesity, and their complications. The used keywords were “medicinal plants” or “herbals” in combination with “obesity,” “diabetes,” “diabetes,” or nephropathy. More than 130 medicinal plants were identified to target diabesity and its complications. The antidiabetic and anti-obesity effects and action mechanisms of these plants are discussed here. These include the regulation of appetite, thermogenesis, lipid absorption, and lipolysis; pancreatic lipase activity and adipogenesis; glucose absorption in the intestine, insulin secretion, glucose transporters, gluconeogenesis, and epigenetic mechanisms.
Molecular Characterization and Diversity of Bacteria Isolated from Fish and Fish Products Retailed in Kenyan Markets
Authors: Kyule Domitila Ndinda , Maingi John M. , Njeru Ezekiel Mugendi , Nyamache Anthony Kebira
Published: July 2022

Fish products are highly vulnerable to microbial contamination due to their soft tissues, making them perishable and harmful to consumers. The clinical and subclinical infections reported by fish consumers are mainly associated with pathogenic microorganisms in fish products. Therefore, this study aimed at establishing the molecular profiles and diversity of the bacterial isolates from fish and fish products obtained from Kirinyaga County markets in Kenya. A total of 660 samples were randomly sampled in six Kirinyaga County markets and transported to Kenyatta University for bacterial isolation. The fish skin surface was cut using a sterile knife and blended in buffered peptone water. The blended product was serially diluted and plated on nutrient agar. After 24 hours, the bacteria cultures were subcultured to obtain pure bacterial isolates. The pure isolates were grouped and characterized based on their morphology and biochemical characteristics. One representative of each group was selected for bacterial DNA extraction. The 16S rRNA gene was amplified using the 27F and 1492R primers, and the obtained PCR product was subjected to Sanger-based sequencing using the same primers. Morphological characterization yielded 54 morpho groups. Phylogenetic analysis revealed diverse bacterial strains, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Citrobacter freundii, Bacillus sp. and Alcaligenes faecalis. Bacillus sp. was the most dominant group, as compared to other isolates in the study. The study, therefore, revealed diverse bacterial strains from the fish products. This high microbial diversity calls for heightened surveillance to prevent possible foodborne disease outbreaks.
Morphological Characteristics of Hydraulic Flushing under Multifactor Coupling and Its Enlightenment
Authors: Liu Xiao , Jing Tianxiang , Xuan Dequan , Hu Shixiong , Li Yong , Xu Sen
Published: July 2022

The shape of the hydraulic flushing hole is an important basis to determine the effective pumping radius. In the design and evaluation of the drilling hole, it is usually equivalent to a cylinder. However, the formation of the shape of the hole is affected by the gravity of coal and rock bulk, the friction of coal and rock, water force, stress, and other factors, so the scientific nature that is equivalent to a cylinder remains to be discussed. In this paper, based on the analysis of the whole process of hydraulic flushing and the formation of the pore shape, gravity, friction, water force, and ground stress of coal and rock bulk are selected as important factors affecting the pore shape, and the parallel Bergmark-Roos equation and PKN model are introduced to establish the BR-PKN equation of the pore shape of hydraulic flushing. MATLAB is used to reproduce the shape of the hydraulic flushing hole, which is a kind of ellipsoid with three different axes. In order to verify the accuracy of the hole shape, the YZD18.5 video imaging logging tool for mine lateral resistivity is used to collect and analyze the shape data of the hydraulic flushing hole, and the hole section is drawn, which is basically consistent with the theoretical derivation of the hydraulic flushing hole shape. COMSOL is used to simulate the hydraulic flushing equivalent of the ellipsoid hole compared with the cylinder hole under the same coal output and extraction time of 90 days. The extraction radius, desorption surface area, and effective extraction volume are 0.95, 0.79, and 1.14 times, respectively, providing a basis for the optimal design of hydraulic flushing.
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profiling of Heritiera fomes Buch. Ham. Deciphered Thrombolytic, Antiarthritic, Anthelmintic, and Insecticidal Potentialities via In Vitro Approach
Authors: Ripa Farhana Alam , Hossain Md. Jamal , Nesa Mst. Luthfun , Zahan Miss Sharmin , Mitra Saikat , Rashid Mohammad A. , Roy Arpita , Alghamdi Saad , Almehmadi Mazen , Abdulaziz Osama
Published: July 2022

Medicinal plants have been crucial in treating various chronic ailments since ancient times. The objective of this study was to evaluate in vitro pharmacological properties of petroleum ether, chloroform, and ethyl acetate soluble fractions of ethanolic extract (leaf, bark, and root) of Heritiera fomes Buch. Ham., including the phytochemical screening of the plant. Thrombolytic and antiarthritic properties were assessed through the clot lysis and protein denaturation experimental method, correspondingly. Anthelmintic and insecticidal activities were studied against Pheretima posthuma and Tribolium castaneum, respectively. The phytochemical analysis exhibited numerous active phytochemicals in different solvent fractions. In thrombolytic investigation, among all crude extracts, ethanolic leaf extract showed the highest 33.12 ± 7.52% clot lysis as compared to standard streptokinase (67.77 ± 9.78%). In antiarthritic assay, all the tested samples exhibited noteworthy protein denaturation in dose-dependent manner (100–500 μg/mL), whereas the utmost percentage inhibition was noticed for chloroform extract of roots (63.28 ± 5.96% at 500 μg/mL). All crude extracts exhibited a significant anthelmintic activity in different concentrations (25–75 mg/mL) and revealed paralysis and death of earthworms in comparison with albendazole; ethanolic extract of the bark was found to be more potent at the highest dose. For the insecticidal test, ethanolic extract of the leaf showed the utmost mortality rate (73%). The outcomes of the investigation confirmed the potential thrombolytic, antiarthritic, anthelmintic, and insecticidal activities of the different extracts of H. fomes, and hence, advanced studies on the isolation and identification of active phytocompounds are highly needed for new drug development.
Application and Thinking of Artificial Intelligence in Electrical Automation
Authors: Chen Suihai
Published: July 2022

With the vigorous development of China’s market economy, a new generation of artificial intelligence technology has also developed rapidly, which has strongly promoted the optimization and improvement of China’s electrical automation control system. The use of artificial intelligence technology in power automation systems mainly has the following two advantages: it can reduce the manufacturing time of power products, thereby increasing the number of workers manufacturing power products and promoting enterprises to conduct larger-scale machine manufacturing, thereby improving the comprehensive economic benefits of enterprise machine manufacturing, but also improve the quality of manufactured products of electric power products. Since the machine control of artificial intelligence is more efficient than manual manufacturing, it reduces the manufacturing problems caused by the subjective factors of manufacturing workers to a certain extent and thus improves the qualification rate of machine production. Electrical engineering plays an important role in China’s urban development, and automatic control is an important part of electrical engineering, which can have a direct impact on the quality of electrical engineering. Therefore, in order to promote the healthy development of cities in China, this paper studies the application of artificial intelligence technology in electrical engineering automation by analyzing relevant data, in order to provide a reliable basis for relevant personnel to carry out their work.
[Retracted] Outcome Prediction of Hematologic Malignancy in Critically Sick People
Authors: Velmurugan Palanivel , Moihanavel Vinayagam , Altayar Malik A. , Jalal Mohammed M. , Kabrah Saeed M. , Qanash Husam , Almashjary Majed N. , Alshehri Osama M. , Kunwar Vijay Singh
Published: July 2022

People with hematologic malignancies (HM) frequently postulate intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization due to organ damage caused by the disease process or treatment‐related consequences. This study is aimed at looking at mortality and sign factors in adult patients with hematologic malignancy (HM) who have been hospitalized in the ICU. Death was one quality indicator; researchers used a machine learning approach to find determinants of death. As per the study, there have been 206 patients hospitalized in the ICU (mean age: 51.3 ± 13.6 years; 60% male). The average length of stay was three days, with 14.1% requiring extended ICU commitment. ICU death was 45.6% at 30 days, 62.6% at sixty days, and 74.3% at twelve months, rising to 59.2% at thirty days, 62.6% at sixty days, and 74.3% at twelve months. Ventilation systems and vasodilating medication were linked to higher ICU death, but admission to the ICU surgically and experiencing malignancies are linked with lower death rates. Patients with HM who are hospitalized in the ICU have a high mortality rate (45.6%), which rises to 74.3% after a year. Serious illness, postsurgical hospitalization, and malignancy were revealed as determinants of patient outcomes in multivariate analyses.
Development of a Theoretical Delay Model for Heterogeneous and Less Lane-Disciplined Traffic Conditions
Authors: Khadhir Abdhul , Bhaskar Ashish , Vanajakshi Lelitha , Haque Md. Mazharul
Published: July 2022

In developing countries with limited or no availability of traffic sensors, theoretical delay models are the most commonly used tool to estimate control delay at intersections. The traffic conditions in such countries are characterised by a large mix of vehicle types and limited or no lane discipline (Heterogeneous, Less Lane-Disciplined (HLLD) traffic conditions), resulting in significantly different traffic dynamics. This research develops a queueing theory-based theoretical delay model that explicitly incorporates HLLD traffic conditions’ characteristic features like lack of lane discipline, violation of the First-In-First-Out rule, and a large mix of vehicle types. A new saturation flow-based Passenger Car Equivalent (PCE) estimation methodology to address heterogeneity and a virtual lane estimation approach to address lack of lane-discipline are proposed. The developed model shows 64% lesser error in average control delay estimation compared to the in-practice delay estimation models under HLLD traffic conditions. The developed model is used for signal optimisation under HLLD traffic conditions and reductions of up to 24% in control delay in comparison to the in-practice signal timing approach are observed. The study also highlights the significance of knowing the variation of delay in addition to average delay and presents a simple approach to capture the variation in delay.
Analysis of the Impact of Moral Education in Colleges and Universities Based on Short Video Technology
Authors: Jiang Ying
Published: July 2022

As the development of my country’s mobile Internet continues to advance in depth, its related industries have also continued to rise and especially, the short video industry has ushered in a period of rapid development. In the past, the research on short videos mostly started from the perspectives of communication, sociology, culture, etc., mainly based on the discussion of the content and communication characteristics of Douyin short videos and analyzed the origins behind its rapid development. The relevant research on moral education in colleges and universities is relatively weak. Based on the relevant sample data collected from questionnaires and interviews, this paper focuses on analyzing the impact of short videos on moral education in colleges and universities from the perspective of pedagogy. The rapid popularization and wide application of short video applications have had a huge impact on the study habits and living habits of college students. College students’ moral education educators must make good use of the short video application as a carrier, create new ideas for work, and enhance the attractiveness and influence of moral education work.
Role and Mechanism of Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in the Regulation of Autophagy in Alleviating Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Dong Zhaoxing , Yin E. Gao , Yang Meijuan , Zhao Xiaoyuan , Li Jing , Lei Wen
Published: July 2022

A variety of internal and external lung diseases may eventually lead to pulmonary fibrosis, and insufficient autophagy is closely related to pulmonary fibrosis. This research is aimed to explore the mechanism of autophagy to alleviate pulmonary fibrosis. Then, a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis induced by boromycin and histopathological lesions of the lungs of mice were observed by HE staining, which Masson staining assessed the degree of fibrosis in the lung tissue by detecting the expression of hydroxyproline in the tissue. RT-qPCR and western blotting were used to detect the levels of autophagy and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway-related proteins. It was proved that autophagy-related proteins MAP1LC3(LC3) and Beclin 1 were decreased in mice with pulmonary fibrosis, while the expression of p62 was increased. Mice with pulmonary fibrosis worsened after injection of a 3-MA autophagy inhibitor, while injection of autophagy activation of rapamycin agent promoted Nrf2 nuclear mobilization. In a word, autophagy relieves pulmonary fibrosis through the activation of the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Sesquiterpene Lactones and Cancer: New Insight into Antitumor and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Parthenolide-Derived Dimethylaminomicheliolide and Micheliolide
Authors: Dong Yubo , Qian Xuanjin , Li Jian
Published: July 2022

Applied science nowadays works on the isolation and application of biological macromolecules (BMM). These BMM are isolates from plants using different techniques and used as anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Parthenolide (PLT) is one of the most important biological macromolecules and a naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactone that is isolated from a plant species Tanacetum parthenium (T. parthenium). The anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects of PTL isolated from T. parthenium were previously reported and summarized in detail. These biological activities make it a vital candidate for further researches and drugs development. As per the previously obtained findings, the sesquiterpene is very much known for some biological activities; therefore, the anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities of the sesquiterpene were critically reviewed. During the research process, PTL was found to be unstable in both acidic and basic conditions with low solubility, so structurally related compounds micheliolide (MCL) and Dimethylaminomicheliolide (DMAMCL) (a prodrug of MCL) were developed. In this article, we briefly review the therapeutic effects of PTL and its derivative DMAPT on inflammatory diseases and tumors, focusing on the current application of PTL in targeted therapy and combination therapy, together with anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor functions of MCL and DMAMCL. The uniqueness of this biological macromolecule is not to harm the normal cell but target the cancerous cells. Therefore, the current literature review might be helpful and useful for prospects based on the effects of MCL and DMAMCL on cancer.
Level of Mothers’/Caregivers’ Healthcare‐Seeking Behavior for Child’s Diarrhea, Fever, and Respiratory Tract Infections and Associated Factors in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zenebe Getachew Assefa , Gebretsadik Seblewongel , Muche Temesgen , Sisay Daniel , Meno Abinet , Hareru Habtamu Endashaw , Debela Berhanu Gidisa
Published: July 2022

Objective. To assess the pooled prevalence of mothers’ or caregivers’ healthcare‐seeking behavior for childhood diarrhea, fever, and respiratory tract infections and associated factors in Ethiopia. Study Design. Systematic review and meta‐analysis. Methods. Literature searches were conducted through databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, CINHAL, ScienceDirect, HINARI, and gray literatures) from September 1 to 30, 2021, using key terms in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The characteristics of the original articles were described using text and tables. Heterogeneity among the reported prevalence of studies was checked by using a heterogeneity χ2 test and I2 test. Publication bias was examined by performing Egger’s correlation and Begg’s regression intercept tests at a 5% significant level. A random‐effect model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence of the outcome variable and its determinants in Ethiopia. Results. Of the total identified studies, 25 studies were included in the review, with a total of 29,993 study participants. The overall pooled prevalence of mothers’ or caregivers’ health‐seeking behavior for childhood diarrhea, fever, and respiratory tract infections was 60.33% (95% CI: 50.14‐70.52). The significant factors were residence (AOR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.11–8.39), wealth index (AOR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.92‐2.48), perceived severity of illness (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.12–6.51), and knowledge of the illness (AOR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.37–2.75). Conclusion. This review suggests that the overall pooled prevalence of mothers’ or caregivers’ HSB for childhood diarrhea, fever, and respiratory tract infections was 60.33%. Residence, wealth index, perceived severity of illness, and knowledge of the illness by mothers were the significant factors. Therefore, providing interventions by considering the above factors will improve the overall seeking behavior.
Effectiveness Analysis of English Newspaper Reading Teaching Based on Deep Learning from the Perspective of Online and Offline Hybrid Teaching
Authors: Zeng Zheng , Wang Xi
Published: July 2022

In recent years, China’s higher education has developed rapidly, and the overall English proficiency of college students has improved significantly. In order to improve the English proficiency of students in higher education, English newspaper reading courses are offered, many of which are elective courses. Reading English newspapers in English can help college students improve their overall English proficiency and benefit them in their future lives. Reading English newspapers can improve students’ English in many ways as part of college English teaching activities. For example, it helps students to accumulate common and authentic words and phrases, improve their English reading efficiency and level, and gain a broader perspective. This paper examines the role of English newspaper reading in college English teaching, proposes an effective analysis method of teaching English newspaper reading based on deep learning from the perspective of online and offline hybrid teaching, and tests the effectiveness of the model. Finally, the specific characteristics of English newspapers are combined to propose suggestions for improving the effectiveness of English teaching activities for college students.
Evodiamine as the Active Compound of Evodiae fructus to Inhibit Proliferation and Migration of Prostate Cancer through PI3K/AKT/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lei Yuhe , Chan Meiching , Liu Haiyan , Lyu Wenyu , Chen Lei , Zhong Yinqin , Gan Hua , Wang Mei , Qi Ming , Guo Yu , Liu Junshan , Zhang Enxin
Published: July 2022

Evodiae fructus (EF) is a traditional Chinese medicine which is widely used for the treatment of obesity, inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and diseases of the central nervous system. Recent studies have demonstrated the anticancer property of EF, but the active compounds of EF against prostate cancer and its underlying mechanism remain unknown. In this study, a network pharmacology-based approach was used to explore the multiple ingredients and targets of EF. Through protein-protein interaction (PPI), Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses, the potential targets and corresponding ingredients of EF against prostate cancer cells were obtained. CCK8 and colony formation assays were performed to evaluate the antiproliferative effect of the active compounds on DU145 cells. Cell cycle analysis, Annexin V-FITC/PI staining assay, and Hoechst 33258 staining assay were used to explore the way of evodiamine-induced cell death. The capacities of cell migration after evodiamine treatment were evaluated by wound-healing assay. PharmMapper database was used to predict the potential targets of evodiamine against cancer cell migration. Western blot assay was performed to investigate the signaling pathway through which evodiamine inhibits cell proliferation and migration. The binding of evodiamine to PI3K and AKT was verified by molecular docking. As a consequence, 24 active compounds and 141 corresponding targets were obtained through a network pharmacology-based approach. The results of PPI analysis, GO enrichment, and KEGG pathway enrichment indicated that molecules in the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway were the potential targets of EF against prostate cancer, and evodiamine was the potential active compound. In vitro study demonstrated that evodiamine displays antiproliferative effect on DU145 cells obviously. Evodiamine induces G2/M cell cycle arrest by Cdc25c/CDK1/cyclin B1 signaling. Additionally, evodiamine also promotes mitochondrial apoptosis and inhibits cell migration through PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling in DU145 cells. In conclusion, evodiamine is the active compound of EF to inhibit proliferation and migration of prostate cancer through PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, indicating that evodiamine may serve as a potential lead drug for prostate cancer treatment.
Study on the Bearing Capacity of High‐Cap Inclined Pile Foundations
Authors: Shao Guodong , Liu Juan , Wang Tonglei , Liu Yuping
Published: July 2022

To analyze the bearing capacity of high‐cap inclined pile foundations based on foundation design in practical engineering, finite element models of single cap foundations and multi‐cap foundations are established. The influence of the inclination direction and angle of the inclined pile on the lateral displacement of the foundation and internal force of the pile body is investigated. The influence of uneven settlement on inclined pile foundations is examined by weakening the soil strength. This paper suggests that the lateral bearing capacity of a negatively inclined pile is better than that of a positively inclined pile. When the inclination angle of a negatively inclined pile changes within a certain range, it can significantly affect the lateral displacement of the pile body. Under uneven settlement, the change in the internal force of the inclined pile is larger than that of the vertical pile, the horizontal displacement difference of each bearing platform is small, and the vertical displacement is quite different.
Application of Software Data Analysis Model Based on K-Means Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Qiu Wenhai
Published: July 2022

In order to improve the anomaly detection ability of portable multidimensional control software test data, a software test data anomaly detection method based on K-means clustering is proposed. The abnormal data distribution structure model of portable multidimensional control software testing is constructed. The fuzzy semantic feature reconstruction method is adopted to identify the fuzzy parameters of portable multidimensional control software and extract the feature quantity of associated information. According to the evolution distribution of associated features, the joint combination feature analysis method is adopted to realize the fuzzy clustering center detection of abnormal data of portable multidimensional control software test, and the fusion of abnormal feature distribution is carried out to complete the joint multidimensional feature detection. The K-means clustering method is used for effective data combination control in portable multidimensional control software to extract and detect abnormal features of test data in portable multidimensional control software. Experimental results show that the accuracy of anomaly detection of software test data by the proposed method is always greater than 0.8. Conclusion. Using this method to detect abnormal data of portable multidimensional control software test has higher accuracy and better detection performance.
A Net Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of Different Types of Dressings in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot
Authors: Wang Ying , Chao Nan , Yin Doudou
Published: July 2022

Objective. This is an analysis of the impact of a new dressing commonly used to treat diabetic foot (DFU). Methods. Chinese and English databases were searched to collect clinical randomized controlled studies (RCTs) of various types of dressings for the treatment of DFU, and the healing rates of the different dressings were combined by reticulation meta-analysis. Results. The aggregate of the 36 RCTs included in this study analysed the healing rates of nine dressings: conventional dressing, alginate dressing, chitosan dressing, hyaluronic acid dressing, platelet-rich plasma dressing, amniotic membrane dressing, honey dressing, human recombinant growth factor dressing, and silver ionomer dressing. Conclusion. Hyaluronic acid dressing, amniotic membrane dressing, honey dressing, and platelet-rich plasma dressing are the ideal materials for topical treatment of DFU.
Optimization of Tensile and Impact Strength for Injection Moulded Nylon 66/Sic/B4c Composites
Authors: Boopathy G. , Vanitha V. , Karthiga K. , Gugulothu Bhiksha , Pradeep A. , Pydi Hari Prasadarao , Vijayakumar S.
Published: July 2022

The mechanical properties of different polymer matrix composites are discussed in this research study. These composites are multiphase materials in which reinforcing elements and a polymer matrix are suitably combined. The mechanical properties of 18 PMCs, including nylon 66 reinforced with 5, 15, and 25% wt% silicon carbide (SiC) and nylon 66 reinforced with 5, 15, and 25% wt% boron carbide (B4C), were evaluated using an injection moulding technique at three different injection pressures in this study. The optimization of process parameters like reinforcement material, reinforcement quantity, and injection pressure to maximize the tensile and impact strength of nylon 66 composites are the main focus of this study. It is observed that the specimens 25% SiC with an injection pressure of 90 MPa has optimised tensile strength, while the specimen 5% B4C with an injection pressure of 90 MPa has optimised impact strength.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Nutritional Status of COVID-19 Patients Admitted to the ICU and Patients’ Prognosis: A Cohort Study
Authors: Mohammadi Parsa , Varpaei Hesam Aldin , Khafaee pour khamseh Alireza , Mohammadi Mostafa , Rahimi Mojgan , Orandi Amirhossein
Published: July 2022

Background. Malnutrition in COVID-19 critically ill patients can lead to poor prognosis. This study aimed to evaluate the association between nutritional status (or risk) and the prognosis of critically ill COVID-19 patients. In this study, prognosis is the primary outcome of “hospital mortality” patients. The second outcome is defined as “need for mechanical ventilation.” Methods and Materials. In this single-center prospective cohort study, 110 patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex (Tehran, Iran) between April and September 2021 were enrolled. Participants formed a consecutive sample. MNA-SF, NRS-2002, mNUTRIC, and PNI scores were used to evaluate nutritional assessment. Patients’ lab results and pulse oximetric saturation SpO2/FiO2 (SF) ratio at the time of intensive care unit (ICU) admission were collected. Patients were screened for nutritional status and categorized into two groups, patients at nutritional risk and nonrisk. Results. Sixty-five (59.1%) of all patients were men. The overall range of age was 52 ± 15. Thirty-six (32.7%) of patients were obese (BMI ≥ 30). The hospital mortality rate was 59.1% (n = 65). According to the different criteria, malnutrition rate was 67.3% (n = 74) (NRS), 28.2% (n = 31) (MNA), 34.5% (n = 38) (mNUTRIC), and 58.2% (n = 64) (PNI). There was a statistically significant association between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and mNUTRIC risk (OR = 13.5, 95% CI (1.89–16.05),

P
=
0.002

), diabetes mellitus (DM) and MNA risk (OR = 2.82, 95% CI (1.01–7.83),

P
=
0.041

), hypertension (HTN) and MNA risk (OR = 5.63, 95% CI (2.26–14.05),

P
<
0.001

), and malignancy and mNUTRIC risk (

P
=
0.048

). The nutritional risk (all tools) significantly increased the odds of in-hospital death and need for mechanical ventilation. The length of stay was not significantly different in malnourished patients. Conclusion. In the critical care setting of COVID-19 patients, malnutrition is prevalent. Malnutrition (nutritional risk) is associated with an increased risk of need for mechanical ventilation and in-hospital mortality. Patients with a history of HTN, CKD, DM, and cancer are more likely to be at nutritional risk at the time of ICU admission.
Analgesic Characteristics of Bupivacaine Alone and in Combination with Dexmedetomidine or Meperidine in Spinal Anesthesia during Cesarean Section: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial Study
Authors: Azemati Simin , Zarghami Amir , Jouybar Reza , Naderi-boldaji Vida
Published: July 2022

Background. Comparing bupivacaine’s adjuvants in spinal anesthesia, we assessed the specific blocking characteristics and adverse effects of bupivacaine alone and in combination with dexmedetomidine or meperidine in spinal anesthesia during cesarean section. Methods. In this double-blind randomized clinical trial study, ninety pregnant women were divided into groups to receive 10 mg bupivacaine (group B), 10 mg bupivacaine with 5 μg dexmedetomidine (group BD), or 10 mg bupivacaine with 10 mg meperidine (group BM) intrathecal. Patients were assessed for the quality of analgesia during operations. Durations of sensory and motor blocks and anesthesia-related complications were analyzed using SPSS 21, and

p

values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results. The onset of sensory and motor blocks was essentially the same in all treated groups. Block regression time was significantly prolonged in the BD group compared to the B and BM groups (

p
<
0.001

). The duration of analgesia was significantly longer in the BD and BM groups than in the B group (

p
<
0.001

). The level of sedation in the BD group was higher than in the B group. Shivering occurred in 40% of patients in the B group, which was significantly more than that of the BD (16.6%) and BM (33.3%) groups. Itching happened in 33.3% of women in the BM group which was statistically more than that of the B (3.33%) and BD (0) groups. The incidence of adverse effects was the same in all groups. Conclusion. The combination of bupivacaine with dexmedetomidine significantly prolonged sensory and motor regression time and duration of analgesia.
Corrective Mechanism Aftermath Surgical Treatment of Spine Deformity due to Scoliosis: A Systematic Review of Finite Element Studies
Authors: Gunasekaran Kavita , Basaruddin Khairul Salleh , Muhayudin Nor Amalina , Sulaiman Abdul Razak
Published: July 2022

This paper presents a systematic study in reviewing the application of finite element method for the analysis of correction mechanism of spine deformity due to scoliosis. The study is aimed at systematically (1) reviewing the use of finite element analysis in spine deformity case, (2) reviewing the modelling of pedicle screw and rod system in scoliosis surgery, and (3) analysing and discussing gap between the studies. Using the restricted key phrases, the review gathered studies from 2001 to 2021 from various electronic databases (Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Medline, and WorldCAT). Studies were included if they reported a finite element study on spine deformity. Studies that did not fully disclose their methodology and results had significant discrepancies, not published in English or not yet published were all disqualified. Regardless of inconsistencies in the methodological design of the studies, the quality of all papers was above the acceptable level. A total of fifteen manuscripts were considered for inclusion and were given a comprehensive review. This study indicates that analysing the forces acting on the spine, as well as the interrelationship between the force, stress, and degree of correction (which measured as the Cobb angle), could help to improve the corrective mechanism procedure of spine deformity. Pedicle screws and its placement strategies are also important as it influence the corrective forces for scoliosis treatment. Hence, the findings of this study could potentially be used as a guidance to develop a reliable finite element analysis that can predict the biomechanics responses during the corrective spine deformity treatment.
Weight Gain and Body Composition Changes during the Transition of Thyroid Function in Patients with Graves’ Disease Undergoing Radioiodine Treatment
Authors: Cai Zhenqin , Chen Qiyu , Ling Yan
Published: July 2022

Objective. This study aimed at investigating the dynamic changes in the body weight and body composition in a group of patients with Graves’ disease undergoing radioiodine therapy. Methods. Seventeen patients with Graves’ disease undergoing 131I treatment and forty-three euthyroid controls were recruited. Body weight, BMI, and body composition via bioelectrical impedance were measured for the participants at baseline, hypothyroid stage, and euthyroid stage. Results. Body weight increased significantly during the transition from hyperthyroidism to euthyroidism. However, there were no significant changes in body fat %, lean mass %, and bone mineral %. The body weight of 9 patients at the euthyroid stage exceeded their premorbid weight, while the remaining 8 patients’ weight did not exceed the premorbid weight. In the group with excessive weight gain, both body fat and lean mass increased significantly. However, in the group without excessive weight gain, only lean mass increased significantly. The patients with excessive weight gain had significantly higher body fat %, while lower lean mass % compared to patients without excessive weight gain at baseline and at the euthyroid stage. Moreover, body fat % of patients with excessive weight gain was significantly higher than that of controls, while lean mass % was significantly lower than that of controls. There was no difference of body fat % and lean mass % between patients without excessive weight gain and controls. Conclusion. 131I treatment caused significant weight gain in patients with Graves’ disease. An undesirable body composition at presentation may be a risk factor for excessive weight gain after hyperthyroidism treatment.
Evaluating the Impact of Freeway Service Patrol on Incident Clearance Times: A Spatial Transferability Test
Authors: Islam Naima , Adanu Emmanuel K. , Hainen Alexander M. , Burdette Steve , Smith Randy , Jones Steven
Published: July 2022

Freeway service patrol (FSPs) programs have been considered as an effective tool for traffic incident management in minimizing the adverse effects of traffic incidents. In this study, random parameters hazard-based duration modeling method was used to evaluate the impact of the newly implemented Alabama Service and Assistance Patrol (ASAP) program, using incident clearance time as a performance measure. It was determined that there is a statistically significant difference in the factors that influence incidents clearance times between incidents that occurred inside and outside the ASAP regions. A total of five variables (on-road, nighttime, peak hours, rain, and fire response present) were observed to have random effects along with ten fixed effects variables on incidents occurring inside the ASAP regions. On the other hand, incidents that occurred outside the ASAP regions were found to have three random effects variables (on-road, nighttime, and fire response present) and seven fixed effects variables. The estimation results indicate a significant association of incident clearance times to incident related variables such as involvement of CMVs, fatality, vehicle towing, seat belt indicated as involved, and on-road incidents that occurred both inside and outside the ASAP regions. The results also reveal that incident clearance times are influenced strongly by temporal variables (e.g., nighttime), traffic factors (e.g., AADT), and operational variables (e.g., fire response present) for incidents both inside and outside the ASAP area models. Overall, it was observed that the incident clearance times recorded in the regions where the ASAP program is in effect are significantly different. The findings of this study are expected to be useful for the state traffic incident management (TIM) agencies in developing and executing strategies to minimize incident clearance times. Ultimately, the study provides a data-driven evidence-based assessment of the ASAP program in the state.
Effects of Vitamin C Combined with Growth Inhibitors on Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Cirrhosis
Authors: Wang Shimei , Peng Yuanyuan
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of vitamin C combined with growth inhibitors on serum miR‐130a, nitric oxide (NO), and hemostasis in the treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in cirrhosis. Eighty patients with cirrhosis UGIB treated in our hospital from March 2021 to March 2022 were selected and divided into two groups using the random number table method. The control group received growth inhibitor treatment, while the observation group was given vitamin C combined with growth inhibitor treatment for 3 d. The hemostatic effect, serum laboratory indexes (miR‐130a, NO), liver function indexes (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT)), adverse effects, and 24 h hemostasis rate were compared between the two groups. The hemostasis time in the observation group was shorter than that in the control group, and the blood transfusion volume was lower than that in the control group. There was no statistical difference regarding the portal blood flow, miR‐130a, NO, AST, and ALT indexes between the two groups before treatment. After treatment, the portal blood flow, miR‐130a, NO, AST, and ALT indexes in both groups were lower than those before treatment, and all of them were lower in the observation group than in the control group. Adverse reactions showed no significant difference between the two groups of patients with cirrhosis UGIB,, while the 24 h hemostasis rate in the observation group (97.50%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (77.50%). Vitamin C combined with growth inhibitor was effective in the treatment of cirrhotic UGIB, which could effectively shorten the hemostasis time, reduce the transfusion volume and portal blood flow, and improve miR‐130a, NO, and liver function levels of patients, with higher safety, and is worthy of clinical promotion.
A Remote-Sensing Ecological Index Approach for Restoration Assessment of Rare-Earth Elements Mining
Authors: Hao Huichao , Lian Zeke , Zhao Jing , Wang Hesong , He Zhechen
Published: July 2022

In order to meet the requirements for comprehensive and multidimensional generalization of ecological management effectiveness evaluation indexes in the context of ecological restoration advocating comprehensive management by multiple means, this paper explores the rationality of using RSEI as an ecological management effectiveness evaluation index to adapt to the systematic transformation of the management goal of abandoned mine restoration from ecological restoration to regional socioeconomic sustainable development. Based on Landsat-8 image data, the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) was used to evaluate the dynamic changes and spatial and temporal differences of the ecological environment in the study area under the long-term multimeans comprehensive management. The RSEI is suitable for evaluating the effectiveness of comprehensive ecological management in mining areas with a large amount of bare soil. The regional RSEI mean value increased by 0.029 in the early stage and 0.051 in the later stage by fragmentation management, indicating a better effect of multimeans comprehensive management. The remote sensing ecological index can objectively reflect the difference of spatial distribution characteristics of ecological environment in the four “Ecological+” governance regions. It can both objectively reflect the ecological status of the study area and reflect the differentiated spatial distribution characteristics of the ecological environment in different treatment areas, which is of long-term practical significance to the ecological construction of the study area. This study provides a theoretical reference for ecological assessment of complex situation under difficult site conditions.
CRISPR-Based Programmable Nucleic Acid-Binding Protein Technology Can Specifically Detect Fatal Tropical Disease-Causing Pathogens
Authors: Rahman Md. Rashidur , Majumder Toma Rani , Apu Md. Aminul Islam , Paul Alok K. , Afrose Afrina , Dash Biplab Kumar
Published: July 2022

Diagnostic approaches capable of ultrasensitive pathogen detection from low-volume clinical samples, running without any sophisticated instrument and laboratory setup, are easily field-deployable, inexpensive, and rapid, and are considered ideal for monitoring disease progression and surveillance. However, standard pathogen detection methods, including culture and microscopic observation, antibody-based serologic tests, and primarily polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-oriented nucleic acid screening techniques, have shortcomings that limit their widespread use in responding to outbreaks and regular diagnosis, especially in remote resource-limited settings (RLSs). Recently, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based programmable technology has emerged to challenge the unmet criteria of conventional methods. It consists of CRISPR-associated proteins (Cas) capable of targeting virtually any specific RNA or DNA genome based on the guide RNA (gRNA) sequence. Furthermore, the discovery of programmable trans-cleavage Cas proteins like Cas12a and Cas13 that can collaterally damage reporter-containing single-stranded DNA or RNA upon formation of target Cas-gRNA complex has strengthened this technology with enhanced sensitivity. Current advances, including automated multiplexing, ultrasensitive single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based screening, inexpensive paper-based lateral flow readouts, and ease of use in remote global settings, have attracted the scientific community to introduce this technology in nucleic acid-based precise detection of bacterial and viral pathogens at the point of care (POC). This review highlights CRISPR-Cas-based molecular technologies in diagnosing several tropical diseases, namely malaria, zika, chikungunya, human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV-AIDS), tuberculosis (TB), and rabies.
The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Callicarpa nudiflora Extract on H. Pylori-Infected GES-1 Cells through the Inhibition of ROS/NLRP3/Caspase-1/IL-1β Signaling Axis
Authors: Li Lili , Bao Bo , Chai Xingxing , Chen Xiaoyu , Su Xiaohua , Feng Shixiu , Zhu Xiaohui
Published: July 2022

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the main pathogenic factor of gastric cancer, chronic gastritis, and other gastric diseases. It has been found that Callicarpa nudiflora (CN) as an air-dried leaf extract has a broad-spectrum antibacterial effect. This study aims to examine the effect of CN on H. pylori-infected GES-1 cells in vitro and elucidate its underlying mechanism by extracting active ingredients from air-dried leaves. GES-1 cells were cocultured with HPSS1 at MOI = 100 : 1 and treated with different concentrations of CN (100 and 200 μg/ml). Results showed that CN can significantly reduce cellular LDH leakage and attenuate H. pylori-induced cell apoptosis and ROS production in GSE-1 cells, so as to protect gastric epithelial cells from damage by H. pylori. CN can also inhibit the secretion of inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. After CN treatment, the expression levels of active caspase-1, PYCARD, and NLRP3 were remarkably decreased in the treatment groups compared with the model group. To sum up, CN is highly protective against H. pylori-induced cell damage and apoptosis; CN can depress NLRP3 inflammasome activation and ROS production via the ROS/NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β signaling axis to suppress H. pylori-triggered inflammatory response and pyroptosis.
Revenue Distribution Decision in Low-Carbon Supply Chain with Revenue Sharing Contract: An Analysis of the Third-Party Participation and GAHP
Authors: Qi Yuan , Guo Hubin , He Sijing , Yang Maowen
Published: July 2022

Apart from the three revenue sharing parameters, the other parameters of the revenue sharing contract (RSC) in a low-carbon supply chain cannot be precise values in most cases. As a result, adopting the RSC will cause challenges in the low-carbon supply chain. In this paper, to calculate the value of the revenue distribution parameter, a decision method based on multiple index is put forward. First, we construct an index system of revenue distribution based on the viewpoints of cost, efficiency, and satisfaction. Second, we propose the third-party participation (TPP) mechanism and the group analytic hierarchy process (GAHP) decision-making approach according to the premise that “heteronomy is better than self-discipline.” By the use of the case of company “A,” we demonstrated the applicability and practicability of the decision-making approach. The main contributions of this paper are twofold. First, we surveyed 22 experts and set up the 43 indexes, while also constructing the analytical hierarchy process matrix and explaining each index in depth. Second, the TPP mechanism and the GAHP method are used to calculate the value of each index and their sensitivity to the decision-making by the software of Yaahp12.0. Overall, this research can help the decision-makers of low-carbon supply chain in determining the ratio of revenue distribution and improving the applicability of revenue sharing contract.