bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Study of Hot Gas Injection (HGI) into an Ironmaking Blast Furnace (BF)
Authors: Li Zhaoyang , Feng Yixiong , Wang Aimin
Published: October 2021

Blast furnace (BF) ironmaking is the most important process that produces hot metal (HM) from iron-bearing materials continuously, rapidly, and efficiently. To date, the process is considered to have reached its limit in view of the achieved high process efficiency. In addition, the required high-quality materials are expensive and gradually getting depleted. Hot gas injection (HGI) into the shaft of the BF is an emerging technology recognized potential to solve the aforementioned problems. However, so far, limited information and studies are available, most of which are preliminary studies with regard to the feasibility and aerodynamics of the technology. This hindered the understanding and thus the effective use of this technology. This work presents a numerical study of the multiphase flow, heat, and mass transfer in a BF by a CFD-based process model. The effects of injection composition in terms of CO and CO2 contents in HGI are studied first. The calculated results reveal that HGI of 100% CO delivers the best BF performance. Then, the effects of key variables in relation to HGI of 100% CO, including position, rate, and temperature, are systematically studied. The in-furnace states and overall performance parameters have been analysed in detail. The results show that, through appropriate control of the injection variables, it is possible to achieve improved BF performance including low fuel rate and high productivity, which are considerably affected by the HGI parameters. The BF process model is also demonstrated to be a cost-effective tool in optimizing the key variables of HGI in BF for obtaining optimum process efficiency.
A Study on the Quality Evaluation of English Teaching Based on the Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation of Bat Algorithm and Big Data Analysis
Authors: Ji Shu , Tsai Sang-Bing
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model based on the bat algorithm quantifies the qualitative evaluation effectively and provides a feasible and convenient English teaching quality evaluation system by combining quantitative evaluation with objective index data. Firstly, the English teaching quality evaluation model is constructed based on the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation analysis method and the weight values of each factor are calculated; secondly, the three types of data in the model are processed separately. This includes standardizing the data of objective indicators such as students’ course grades and weakening the influence of course difficulty on this indicator. The fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model based on the bat algorithm quantifies the qualitative evaluation to make the calculated comprehensive evaluation of English teaching quality more comprehensive and objective; then the comprehensive calculation of English teaching quality evaluation is completed, and the English teaching quality evaluation model is constructed by extracting keywords based on the qualitative evaluation; finally, a runnable English teaching quality evaluation system is designed and implemented. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation algorithm based on improved bat algorithm optimization is proposed. The algorithm uses the improved fuzzy comprehensive evaluation algorithm to optimize the initial clustering centers and adopts a new objective function to guide the clustering process, thus improving the clustering quality of the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation algorithm. Comparative analysis through models shows that the improved algorithm improves the clustering accuracy to a certain extent when compared with the traditional fuzzy comprehensive evaluation clustering algorithm for analysis. The bat algorithm is one of the stochastic global optimization models. It can take advantage of the group, integrate global search and local search, and achieve rapid convergence. Therefore, it plays an important role in optimizing the evaluation of English teaching quality. This study enriches the theoretical study of English teaching quality evaluation to a certain extent and can play a role in strengthening and improving English teaching quality evaluation at the present stage.
Observation of Spin Reorientation Transitions in Lead and Titanium‐Modified BiFeO3 Multiferroics
Authors: Kumar Ashwini , Sharma Poorva , Li Qi , Qiu Fujun , Yan Jianhui , Tang Jingyou , Tan Guolong
Published: October 2021

We report the synthesis and basic characterization details of bulk Bi1 − xPbxFe1 − xTixO3 (x = 0.05 and 0.1) polycrystalline samples, which have been synthesized using the conventional solid‐state route. We studied the effects of partially doping of Pb and Ti ion on structural, vibrational, and magnetic properties of multiferroic BiFeO3. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) was used for crystallographic studies, followed by Rietveld refinement, and phase formation of the compounds was confirmed, which indicates that the sample has rhombohedral (R3c, 100%) symmetry for x = 0.05 and R3c (98%) + P4mm (2%) symmetry for x = 0.1. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy has been probed at Fe L2,3 and O K edges to determine the valence (charge) state of Fe in BiFeO3. Interestingly, the magnetic measurement results revealed the existence of spin reorientation transition in Pb and Ti‐modified BiFeO3, which indicates that the BiFeO3 samples studied may find promising applications in memory and spintronic devices.
Prognostic Significance of Substance P/Neurokinin 1 Receptor and Its Association with Hormonal Receptors in Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Mehboob Riffat , Gilani Syed Amir , Hassan Amber , Sadaf  , Tanvir Imrana , Javaid Shaista , Khalid Sidra , Hasan Sana , Waseem Humaira , Alwazzan Ahmad , Munoz Miguel
Published: October 2021

Expression and immunolocalization of Substance P (SP)/Neurokinin‐1 Receptor (NK‐1R) in breast carcinoma (BC) patients and its association with routine proliferative markers (ER, PR, HER2/neu, and Ki‐67) were evaluated. A cross‐sectional study was performed on 34 cases of BC. There were 23 cases of group A (grade III), 8 of group B (grade II), and only 3 cases of group C (grade I). All samples were then processed for SP and NK‐1R immunohistochemistry for few cases. 14/23 cases (61%) of group A, 7/8 cases (88%) of group B, and 2/3 (67%) cases of group C were SP positive. Overall, strong staining (≥10% tumor cells), labeled as “+3,” was observed in 9/14 (64.2%) cases of group A and 1/8 (12.5%) cases of group B. Moderate staining labelled as “+2” (in ≥10% tumor cells) was observed in 3/14 (21.4%) cases of group A and 4/8 (50%) cases of group B. Weak positive staining “+1” was observed in only 2/14 (14.28%) cases of group A, 2/8 (25%) cases of group B, and all 2/2 (100%) cases of group C. SP and NK‐1R are overexpressed in breast carcinomas, and there is significant association between the grade of tumor and their overexpression.
Large Scale Synthesis of Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Banana Peel Extracts and Their Inhibitory Effects against Colletotrichum sp., Isolate KUFC 021, Causal Agent of Anthracnose on Dendrobium Orchid
Authors: T-Thienprasert Nattanan Panjaworayan , T-Thienprasert Jiraroj , Ruangtong Jittiporn , Jaithon Thitiradsadakorn , Srifah Huehne Pattana , Piasai Onuma
Published: October 2021

Fungicides have been extensively used to control fungal diseases that affect several crops including ornamental crops. However, concerns have arisen due to a development of fungicide resistance and increasing incidences of fungicide toxicity effects on nontarget organisms. As zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have demonstrated effective antimicrobial activity, this study is therefore aimed at synthesizing ZnO NPs from banana peels using a green chemistry method in a large scale and determines their physical properties including their inhibitory effects against a plant pathogen fungus causing anthracnose in orchids, Colletotrichum sp. Results from X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope indicated that the synthesized ZnO NPs were obtained without other crystalline impurities, and they were spherical in shape with the average diameter of

256
±
40
 
nm

, respectively. The absorption peak was found to be centered at ~370 nm with the optical band gap value approximately 2.8 eV. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of several functional groups on synthesized ZnO NPs. The total amount of synthesized ZnO NPs was obtained about 170 g for a synthesis reaction. By performing the antifungal activity assay, high doses of green synthesized ZnO NPs significantly inhibited growth of isolated Colletotrichum sp. (KUFC 021) on culture plates. Under greenhouse conditions, high doses of synthesized ZnO NPs also significantly reduced anthracnose symptoms on inoculated orchid leaves with the Colletotrichum sp. (KUFC 021).
[Retracted] Facial Expression Recognition Based on Convolutional Neural Network Fusion SIFT Features of Mobile Virtual Reality
Authors: Yao Fuguang , Qiu Liudong
Published: October 2021

Facial expression recognition computer technology can obtain the emotional information of the person through the expression of the person to judge the state and intention of the person. The article proposes a hybrid model that combines a convolutional neural network (CNN) and dense SIFT features. This model is used for facial expression recognition. First, the article builds a CNN model and learns the local features of the eyes, eyebrows, and mouth. Then, the article features are sent to the support vector machine (SVM) multiclassifier to obtain the posterior probabilities of various features. Finally, the output result of the model is decided and fused to obtain the final recognition result. The experimental results show that the improved convolutional neural network structure ER2013 and CK+ data sets’ facial expression recognition rate increases by 0.06% and 2.25%, respectively.
An Autophagy-Related Gene-Based Prognostic Risk Signature for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Construction and Validation
Authors: Feng Rui , Li Jian , Xuan Weiling , Liu Hanbo , Cheng Dexin , Wang Guowei
Published: October 2021

Background. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent primary liver cancer. Treatment is dramatically difficult due to its high complexity and poor prognosis. Due to the disclosed dual functions of autophagy in cancer development, understanding autophagy-related genes devotes into novel biomarkers for HCC. Methods. Differential expression of genes in normal and tumor groups was analyzed to acquire autophagy-related genes in HCC. These genes were subjected to GO and KEGG pathway analyses. Genes were then screened by univariate regression analysis. The screened genes were subjected to multivariate Cox regression analysis to build a prognostic model. The model was validated by the ICGC validation set. Results. To sum up, 42 differential genes relevant to autophagy were screened by differential expression analysis. Enrichment analysis showed that they were mainly enriched in pathways including regulation of autophagy and cell apoptosis. Genes were screened by univariate analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis to build a prognostic model. The model constituted 6 feature genes: EIF2S1, BIRC5, SQSTM1, ATG7, HDAC1, and FKBP1A. Validation confirmed the accuracy and independence of this model in predicting the HCC patient’s prognosis. Conclusion. A total of 6 feature genes were identified to build a prognostic risk model. This model is conducive to investigating interplay between autophagy-related genes and HCC prognosis.
English Listening Teaching Model in Flipped Classroom Based on Artificial Intelligence Fusion Control Algorithm
Authors: Hu Bo
Published: October 2021

In our contemporary life, various information technologies are changing our lives, and the development of information technology has also provided a certain degree of convenience for the development of education. Now, every country attaches great importance to the development of the informatization of education. This article aims to study how to apply artificial intelligence content and control algorithms to the English listening mode of a flipped classroom. The main purpose of the article is how to make the flipped classroom more intelligent, enrich the content of the classroom, and devote itself to improving children's learning efficiency. This article proposes the application of the PSO algorithm in the flipped classroom to help students learn more intelligently and conveniently in this mode of teaching. They can help children improve their academic performance faster and learn more efficiently. The experimental results of this article show that nearly 65.63% of students are familiar with the teaching method of using animation video to train English listening, and nearly 70% of students are very willing to use this teaching method to learn; using more artificial intelligence fusion control algorithms for us, this teaching mode is used for some simplification and assistance. The average test score of the experimental class (82.95 points) is higher than the posttest score of the control class (79.9 points), the excellence rate of the experimental class is 38%, the pass rate is 100%, and the control class has an excellent rate of 32% in the posttest score. The passing rate was 86.7%. Further analysis shows that, in the posttest scores of the experimental class, the excellent rate and the passing rate have increased, respectively. After the test, the scores of the students in the experimental class have improved greatly compared with the control class. The overall performance of the students has improved significantly.
Prediction Modeling and Sensitivity Analysis of Robot Bone Milling Temperature Operated by a Doctor
Authors: Tian Heqiang , Pan Jingbo , Gao Yu , Dang Xiaoqing , Tian Bin , Meng Debao , Yao Yanan
Published: October 2021

Bone milling is a common method in robot orthopedic surgery. However, excessive milling temperature will cause thermal necrosis of bone cells and tissues. It is necessary to carry out further research and analysis on the robot bone milling process considering the lamina milling skills of spinal surgeons and clinical practice to reduce the damage to bone cells and nearby tissues and obtain good cutting surface quality. Considering the randomness of milling parameters during operation, a prediction method of milling temperature model for ball milling cutter considering the doctor’s surgical skills was proposed based on response surface method. Because of material anisotropy and microstructure difference between the cortical bone and cancellous bone, this paper would analyze the influencing factors in different bone layers to establish the prediction model of milling temperature in the segments of cortical bone and cancellous bone. Also, the influence and distribution of milling parameters on temperature in three cutting modes such as parallel cutting mode, cross cutting mode, and vertical cutting mode in the cortical bone region were analyzed. The parameter sensitivity of the milling temperature prediction model was analyzed by the Sobol method, and the influence of the input parameters on the output milling temperature was analyzed quantitatively.
Experimental Study on Enhanced Condensate Recovery by Gas Injection in Yaha Condensate Gas Reservoir
Authors: Wu Yiming , Yao Kun , Liu Yan , Li Xiangyun , Wu Mimi , Cheng Ronghong , Wang Bo
Published: October 2021

A condensate gas reservoir is an important special oil and gas reservoir between oil reservoir and natural gas reservoir. Gas injection production is the most commonly used development method for this type of gas reservoir, but serious retrograde condensation usually occurs in the later stages of development. To improve the recovery efficiency of condensate oil in the middle and late stages of production of a condensate gas reservoir, a gas injection parameter optimization test study was carried out, taking the Yaha gas condensate reservoir in China as an example. On the premise that the physical experimental model and key parameters met the actual conditions of the formation, the injection method, injection medium, injection-production ratio, and other parameters of the condensate gas reservoir were studied. Research on the injection method showed that the top injection method had a lower gas-oil ratio and higher condensate oil recovery. The study of injection medium showed that the production effect of carbon dioxide (CO2) injection was the best injection medium, and the maximum recovery rate of condensate oil was 95.11%. The injection-production ratio study showed that the injection-production ratio was approximately inversely proportional to the recovery factor of condensate gas and approximately proportional to the recovery factor of condensate oil. When the injection-production ratio was 1 : 1, the maximum recovery rate of condensate oil was 83.31%. In summary, in the later stage of gas injection development of the Yaha condensate gas reservoir, it was recommended to choose the development plan of CO2 injection at the top position with an injection-production ratio of 1 : 1. This research can not only provide guidance for the later formulation of gas injection plans for Yaha condensate gas reservoirs but also lay a foundation for the research of gas injection migration characteristics of other condensate gas reservoirs.
Tribological Behavior and Surface Characterization of Gray Cast Iron-EN31 Steel under Lubricated Sliding Conditions
Authors: Ananth S. , Sivaprakasam P. , Udaya Prakash J. , Maheandera Prabu P. , Perumal Varatharaju , Kalusuraman G.
Published: October 2021

This research investigates the tribological behavior of gray cast iron against EN31 steel under lubricated conditions. The most typical lubricated sliding phenomena are the reduction of wear on both the sliding surfaces and any one of the critical surfaces. Static and hydrodynamic wear can be reduced based on fluid properties or the accessibility of fluid between the surfaces. The oil’s viscosity or content of the hydrocarbon and additives present in the oil plays a major role in controlling the wear of reciprocating surfaces. Therefore, this research work focused on metal-to-metal contact wear under the influence of lubricating oil (40 pride oil). The Taguchi method was used to select the sliding parameter combinations. Lubricated sliding resulted in a relatively reduced order of friction coefficient, attributable to better load distribution due to the formation of the lubricant film.
Influence of Nitrogen Content on the Corrosion Behavior of Powder Metallurgy Nickel‐Free Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Yu Weili , Du Changhai , Shen Hongren , He Hao , Yu Yong , Li Yimin , Luo Fenghua
Published: October 2021

Herein, powder metallurgy gas‐solid nitriding was used to prepare a high‐nitrogen Ni‐free austenitic stainless steel with more than 1.0 wt.% N. Study of the microstructures and corrosion resistances of the as‐prepared samples revealed that the corrosion weight loss, size, number of corrosion pits, and corrosion depth decreased as the N content increased from 1.19 to 1.37 wt.%. The self‐corrosion current densities of the alloys were determined from their potentiodynamic polarization curves. The changes in the capacitive arc radius as demonstrated by the Nyquist curves were consistent with the conclusions of the immersion corrosion analysis; that is, a high N content leads to a high corrosion resistance.
Pattern Electroretinogram Parameters Are Associated with Optic Nerve Morphology in Preperimetric Glaucoma after Adjusting for Disc Area
Authors: Tirsi Andrew , Gliagias Vasiliki , Moehringer Julie , Orshan Derek , Tello Sofia , Derr Peter , Park Sung Chul , Obstbaum Stephen A , Tello Celso
Published: October 2021

Purpose. We examined the relationships between pattern electroretinogram and optical coherence tomography derived optic nerve head measurements, after controlling for disc area. Methods. Thirty-two eyes from 20 subjects with preperimetric glaucoma underwent pattern electroretinogram and optical coherence tomography. Pattern electroretinogram parameters (Magnitude, MagnitudeD, and MagnitudeD/Magnitude ratio) and optic nerve head measurements (rim area, average cup to disc ratio, vertical cup to disc ratio, cup volume, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness sectors, and Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width thickness sectors) were analyzed after controlling for disc area. Results. Magnitude and MagnitudeD were significantly associated with rim area (r ≥ 0.503,p≤0.004). All pattern electroretinogram parameters significantly correlated with Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width sectors—temporal superior and nasal inferior (r = 0.400,p=0.039)—and retinal nerve fiber layer sectors—superior, nasal superior, and inferior (r ≥ 0.428,p≤0.026). Magnitude and MagnitudeD explained an additional 26.8% and 25.2% of variance in rim area (B = 0.174 (95% CI: 0.065, 0.283),p=0.003, and B = 0.160 (95% CI: 0.056, 0.265),p=0.004), respectively. MagnitudeD and MagnitudeD/Magnitude ratio explained an additional 13.4% and 12.8% of the variance in Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width global (B = 38.921 [95% CI: 3.872, 73.970],p=0.031, and B = 129.024 (95% CI: 9.589, 248.460),p=0.035), respectively. All Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width sectors and retinal nerve fiber layer sectors (nasal superior, nasal inferior, and inferior) were significantly correlated with rim area (r ≥ 0.389,p≤0.045). Conclusion. PERG abnormalities can predict rim area loss in preperimetric glaucoma after controlling for disc area. We recommend controlling for disc area to increase diagnostic accuracy in early glaucoma.
Research on Distributed In‐Vehicle Wireless Self‐Organized Routing Protocol Distribution Mechanism
Authors: Cui Xinyu , Chen Guifen
Published: October 2021

In recent years, the application of intelligent transportation systems has gradually made the transportation industry safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly and has led to a broader research prospect of vehicle wireless communication technology. Distributed vehicular self‐organizing networks are mobile self‐organizing networks in realistic traffic situations. Data interaction and transmission between nodes are achieved through the establishment of a vehicular self‐organizing network. In this paper, a multipath routing protocol considering path stability and load balancing is proposed to address the shortcomings of existing distributed vehicular wireless self‐organizing routing protocols. This protocol establishes three loop‐free paths in the route discovery phase and uses the path stability parameter and load level parameter together to measure the total transmission cost. The one with the lowest total transmission cost is selected as the highest priority path for data transmission in the route selection phase, and the other two are used as alternate paths, and when the primary path breaks, the higher priority of the remaining path will continue to transmit data as the primary route. In this paper, to improve the content distribution performance of target vehicles in scenarios where communication blind zones exist between adjacent roadside units, an assisted download distribution mechanism for video‐like large file content is designed in the V2V and V2I cooperative communication regime. That is, considering a two‐way lane scenario, we use the same direction driving vehicles to build clusters, reverse driving vehicles to carry prefetched data, and build clusters to forward prefetched data to improve the data download volume of target vehicles in nonhot scenarios such as highways with the sparse deployment of roadside units, to meet the data volume download demand of in‐vehicle users for large files and give guidance for efficient distribution of large file content in highway scenarios.
Relationship between the Branching Patterns of the Radial Nerve and Supinator Muscle
Authors: Jeon Anna , Kim Ye-Gyung , Kwon Seong-Oh , Lee Je-Hun
Published: October 2021

The posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) innervates the posterior compartment muscle of the forearm and is a continuation of the deep branch of the radial nerve. The anatomic descriptions of PIN vary among different authors. This study investigated the distribution patterns of PIN and its relationships to the supinator muscle. This study investigated which nerves innervate the posterior compartment muscles of the forearm, the radial nerve, and the PIN, using 28 nonembalmed limbs. Also, the points where the muscle attaches to the bone were investigated. The measured variables in this study were measured from the most prominent point of the lateral epicondyle of the humerus (LEH) to the most distal point of the radius styloid process. For each specimen, the distance between the above two points was assumed to be 100%. The measurement variables were the attachment area of the supinator and branching points from the radial nerve. The attachment points of the supinator to the radius and ulna were 47.9% ± 3.6% and 31.5% ± 5.2%, respectively, from the LEH. In 67.9% of the specimens, the brachioradialis and extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) were innervated by the radial nerve before superficial nerve branching, and the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) innervated the deep branch of the radial nerve. In 21.4% of the limbs, the nerve innervating the ECRB branched at the same point as the superficial branch of the radial nerve, whereas it branched from the radial nerve in 7.1% of the limbs. In 3.6% of the limbs, the deep branch of the radial nerve branched to innervate the ECRL. PIN was identified as a large branch without divisions in 10.7% and as a deep branch innervating the extensor digitorum in 14.3% of the limbs. The anatomic findings of this study would aid in the diagnosis of PIN syndromes.
A Study of First-Year Students’ Attitudes toward Programming in the Innovation in Educational Technology Course
Authors: Amnouychokanant Virawan , Boonlue Surapon , Chuathong Saranya , Thamwipat Kuntida
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between students’ attitudes toward programming, gender, and learning performances. The survey used for measuring students’ attitudes toward programming consisted of 20 questions on a five-point Likert scale in five dimensions (meaningfulness, interest in programming, self-efficacy, creativity, and collaboration). Ninety freshmen who had basic programming experience by using block-based programming in the Innovation in Educational Technology course were asked to take the survey. The overall reliability of the survey was found to be 0.93. The results showed that there was no significant difference between male and female freshmen in attitude toward programming, but there was a significant difference among different learning performances in dimensions of interest in programming, self-efficacy, and creativity. We performed pairwise comparisons at the same level of significance by using Fisher’s least significant difference (LSD) method to test which group differs from the other groups. The results found that low-performing students’ attitudes toward programming in dimensions of interest in programming, self-efficacy, and creativity were the lowest of all types of students. This is a challenge for instructors in planning learning activities to encourage low-performing students to have a more positive attitude toward programming.
The Possible Role of Bifidobacterium longum BB536 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 on Locomotor Activity and Oxidative Stress in a Rotenone‐Induced Zebrafish Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ilie Ovidiu-Dumitru , Paduraru Emanuela , Robea Madalina-Andreea , Balmus Ioana-Miruna , Jijie Roxana , Nicoara Mircea , Ciobica Alin , Nita Ilinca-Bianca , Dobrin Romeo , Doroftei Bogdan
Published: October 2021

Background. As every organ within the body, the brain is also extremely susceptible to a plethora of noxious agents that change its chemistry. One component frequently found in current products against harmful species to crops is rotenone whose effect under prolonged exposure has been demonstrated to cause neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. The latest reports have indeed revealed that rotenone promotes Parkinson’s in humans, but studies aiming to show congruent effects in zebrafish (Danio rerio) are lacking. Material and Methods. In this context, the aim of the present study was to demonstrate how chronic administration of rotenone for 3 weeks impairs the locomotor activity and sociability and induces oxidative stress in zebrafish. Results. There were no statistically significant differences following the analysis of their social interaction and locomotor tests (p > 0.05). However, several exceptions have been noted in the control, rotenone, and probiotics groups when we compared their locomotor activity during the pretreatment and treatment interval (p < 0.05). We further assessed the role of rotenone in disturbing the detoxifying system as represented by three enzymes known as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Despite the fact that there were no statistically significant changes within SOD and GPx levels between the control group and rotenone, probiotics, and rotenone + probiotics (p > 0.05), relevant changes have been observed between the analyzed groups (p < 0.05 and p < 0.005, respectively). On the other hand, significant differences (p < 0.05) have been observed for MDA when we analyzed the data between the control group and the other three groups. Conclusions. Our results suggest that rotenone can be successfully used to trigger Parkinson’s disease‐related symptomatology in zebrafish.
Brevundimonas vesicularis Peritonitis in a Chronic Peritoneal Dialysis Patient
Authors: Paramasivam Vijayakumar , Paez Armando , Verma Ashish , Landry Daniel , Braden Gregory L.
Published: October 2021

Gram-negative peritonitis in chronic peritoneal dialysis patients is difficult to treat and may result in catheter loss. Brevundimonas vesicularis is a Gram-negative rod bacterium which rarely causes infections in humans. A 41-year-old male receiving continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis for 5 months developed culture-negative peritonitis. He failed initial empiric treatment with intraperitoneal vancomycin and levofloxacin and thereafter intravenous gentamicin. B. vesicularis resistant to levofloxacin was isolated from the peritoneal fluid 21 days after his initial symptoms. Despite treatment with intravenous ceftriaxone and oral amoxicillin-clavulanate, the infection persisted, which required removal of the peritoneal catheter in order to cure this infection. We describe the features of B. vesicularis infection in our patient and the rarely reported additional cases.
Self-Reported Vision Impairment and Frailty among Older People with Low Cognitive Performance in Central Africa: EPIDEMCA Population-Based Study
Authors: Gbessemehlan Antoine , Kehoua Gilles , Helmer Catherine , Delcourt Cécile , Tchalla Achille , Mbelesso Pascal , Ndamba-Bandzouzi Bébène , Dartigues Jean-François , Houinato Dismand , Preux Pierre-Marie , Guerchet Maëlenn
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Very little is known about the impact of vision impairment (VI) on physical health in late-life in sub-Saharan Africa populations, whereas many older people experience it. We investigated the association between self-reported VI and frailty in Central African older people with low cognitive performance. Methods: It was cross-sectional analysis of data from the Epidemiology of Dementia in Central Africa (EPIDEMCA) population-based study. After screening for cognitive impairment, older people with low cognitive performance were selected. Frailty was assessed using the Study of Osteoporotic Fracture index. Participants who met one of the 3 parameters assessed (unintentional weight loss, inability to do 5 chair stands, and low energy level) were considered as pre-frail, and those who met 2 or more parameters were considered as frail. VI was self-reported. Associations were investigated using multinomial logistic regression models. Results: Out of 2,002 older people enrolled in EPIDEMCA, 775 (38.7%) had low cognitive performance on the screening test. Of them, 514 participants (sex ratio: 0.25) had available data on VI and frailty and were included in the analyses. In total, 360 (70%) self-reported VI. Prevalence of frailty was estimated at 64.9% [95% confidence interval: 60.9%–69.1%] and 23.7% [95% CI: 20.1%–27.4%] for pre-frailty. After full adjustment, self-reported VI was associated with frailty (adjusted odds ratio = 2.2; 95% CI: 1.1–4.3) but not with pre-frailty (adjusted odds ratio = 1.8; 95% CI: 0.9–3.7). Conclusion: In Central African older people with low cognitive performance, those who self-reported VI were more likely to experience frailty. Our findings suggest that greater attention should be devoted to VI among this vulnerable population in order to identify early frailty onset and provide adequate care management.
Genetic and Epigenetic Control of Puberty
Authors: Manotas María Carolina , González Daniel Mauricio , Céspedes Camila , Forero Catalina , Rojas Moreno Adriana Patricia
Published: October 2021

Puberty is a complex transitional phase in which reproductive capacity is achieved. There is a very wide variation in the age range of the onset of puberty, which follows a familial, ethnic, and sex pattern. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and several genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors play an important role in the onset of and throughout puberty. Recently, there has been significant progress in identifying factors that affect normal pubertal timing. Different studies have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that affect pubertal timing in both sexes and across ethnic groups. Single genes are implicated in both precocious and delayed puberty, and epigenetic mechanisms have been suggested to affect the development and function of the GnRH neuronal network and responsiveness of end organs. All these factors can influence normal puberty timing, precocious puberty, and delayed puberty. The objective of this review is to describe recent findings related to the genetic and epigenetic control of puberty and highlight the need to deepen the knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms of this process in the normal and abnormal context.
Small Airway Susceptibility to Chemical and Particle Injury
Authors: Fransen Leonie Francina Hendrina , Leonard Martin Oliver
Published: October 2021

Small airways (SA) in humans are commonly defined as those conducting airways <2 mm in diameter. They are susceptible to particle- and chemical-induced injury and play a major role in the development of airway disease such as COPD and asthma. Susceptibility to injury can be attributed in part to structural features including airflow dynamics and tissue architecture, but recent evidence may indicate a more prominent role for cellular composition in directing toxicological responses. Animal studies support the hypothesis that inherent cellular differences across the tracheobronchial tree, including metabolic CYP450 expression in the distal conducting airways, can influence SA susceptibility to injury. Currently, there is insufficient information in humans to make similar conclusions, prompting further necessary work in this area. An understanding of why the SA are more susceptible to certain chemical and particle exposures than other airway regions is fundamental to our ability to identify hazardous materials, their properties, and accompanying exposure scenarios that compromise lung function. It is also important for the ability to develop appropriate models for toxicity testing. Moreover, it is central to our understanding of SA disease aetiology and how interventional strategies for treatment may be developed. In this review, we will document the structural and cellular airway regional differences that are likely to influence airway susceptibility to injury, including the role of secretory club cells. We will also describe recent advances in single-cell sequencing of human airways, which have provided unprecedented details of cell phenotype, likely to impact airway chemical and particle injury.
Normocytic Normochromic Anemia Revealed an Early Onset Hashimoto’s Hypothyroidism in an Infant: A Case Report
Authors: Khadora Manal Mustafa , Saleh Maysa , Idres Rawah , Al-Doory Sura Ahmed , Radaideh Mahmoud Ahmed
Published: October 2021

Autoimmune thyroiditis is very rare etiology of primary hypothyroidism in infancy. Hypothyroidism has a wide range of clinical presentation, from subclinical hypothyroidism to overt type. It is unclear what pathological mechanisms connect thyroid function and erythropoiesis or how thyroid disease can contribute to anemia. We report a 12-month-old infant who presented with anemia associated with early onset of overt autoimmune thyroiditis. The peculiarity of our case enables us to draw attention of physician to consider acquired hypothyroidism in the differential diagnosis of unexplained anemia even if the neonatal screening is normal and congenital hypothyroidism is a remote possibility.
Ataxia Telangiectasia and Rad3-Related Activation by DNA Damage Mitigates Maladaptive Repair after Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Bonventre Joseph V.
Published: October 2021

DNA damage is an important consequence of injury to the proximal tubule. The proximal tubule cell responds to this damage by mounting a DNA damage response (DDR). Two protein kinases, ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) or ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR), play an important role in this DDR. If efficient, the DDR can lead to repair of the DNA, cell renewal, and return to a healthy state. In many cases, however, especially in the setting of baseline kidney injury, there is incomplete repair. In human chronic kidney disease (CKD) and in human kidney organoids exposed to acute injury, there is increased evidence of DNA damage and activation of ATR. This review focuses on 3 aspects of the DNA damage and response to it: (1) DNA damage and the DDR precipitated by acute injury; (2) protection afforded by the DDR kinase, ATR, in multiple mouse models of acute kidney injury; and (3) downstream effects of genetic inhibition of ATR in the proximal tubule, leading to maladaptive repair, fibrosis, and CKD.
Monoarticular Crystal Arthropathy of the Knee: Tophaceous Gout
Authors: Reddy Ravikanth
Published: October 2021

Tophaceous gout is a crystal arthropathy and a disorder of purine metabolism characterized by monosodium urate crystal deposition. A case of tophaceous gout of the knee joint in a 30-year-old female is reported, and the imaging appearances on high-resolution ultrasonography are described. The patient presented with complaints of insidious onset painless swelling of the left knee joint with limitation of range of movement for 1 week. The aspirated joint fluid demonstrated needle-like monosodium urate crystals showing strong negative birefringence consistent with a diagnosis of tophaceous gout. Targeted urate-lowering treatment included oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and oral colchicine. Prophylactic treatment for gout flare-ups included initiation of allopurinol at 300 mg/day along with modification of the dietary regimen including limited consumption of red meat and increased consumption of low-fat dairy products. Symptomatic improvement with reduced pain and swelling of the knee joint was noted at 10 days after treatment. Subsequently, at 3-month follow-up, the patient was disease free with no signs of recurrence and serum uric acid levels at 3.7 mg/dL. In spite of a wide range of therapeutic options available for the management of tophaceous gout, suboptimal management of gout is prevalent till date in both developing and developed nations across the world.
Deep Brain Stimulation of the Pallidofugal Pathways to Rescue Severe Life-Threatening Dyskinesias after STN-DBS Lead Implantation
Authors: Avecillas-Chasin Josue M. , Jimenez-Shahed Joohi , Miravite Joan , Bressman Susan , Kopell Brian H
Published: October 2021

We present a patient with severe life-threatening dyskinesias due to a persistent microlesion effect after STN-DBS electrode implantation. The pallidofugal pathways were identified using patient-specific tractography, and steering the current toward this white matter structure resulted in complete resolution of the severe dyskinesias.
The Relationship between Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Levels and Body Composition Changes after Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Ohira Masahiro , Watanabe Yasuhiro , Yamaguchi Takashi , Onda Hiroki , Yamaoka Shuhei , Abe Kazuki , Nakamura Shoko , Tanaka Shou , Kawagoe Naoyuki , Nabekura Taiki , Saiki Atsuhito , Oshiro Takashi , Nagayama Daiji , Tatsuno Ichiro
Published: October 2021

Introduction: We previously reported that preoperative serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is a predictor of total weight loss percentage (%TWL) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). IGF-1 may suppress muscle loss after surgery. IGF-1 almost accurately reflects the growth hormone (GH) secretion status, and GH has lipolytic effects. Therefore, IGF-1 may influence both the maintenance of skeletal muscle and the reduction of adipose tissue after LSG. The identification of the relationship between preoperative serum IGF-1 and body composition changes after LSG can help in understanding the pathophysiology of obesity. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 72 patients with obesity who underwent LSG and were followed up for 12 months. We analyzed the relationship between preoperative serum IGF-1 levels and body composition changes after LSG. A multiple regression model was used. Results: LSG led to a significant reduction in body weight. Both body fat mass and skeletal muscle mass decreased after LSG. Preoperative serum IGF-1 levels significantly correlated with %TWL, changes in skeletal muscle mass, and body fat mass after LSG. The multiple regression model showed that preoperative serum IGF-1 levels were related to decreased body fat mass and maintaining skeletal muscle mass after LSG. Discussion/Conclusion: Preoperative IGF-1 measurement helps predict not only successful weight loss but also decreases body fat mass and maintains skeletal muscle mass after LSG.
Prehospital Plasma Transfusion: What Does the Literature Show?
Authors: Jackson Bryon P. , Sperry Jason L. , Yazer Mark H.
Published: October 2021

Background: Early initiation of blood products transfusion after injury has been associated with improved patient outcomes following traumatic injury. The ability to transfuse patients’ plasma in the prehospital setting provides a prime opportunity to begin resuscitation with blood products earlier and with a more balanced plasma:RBC ratio than what has traditionally been done. Published studies on the use of prehospital plasma show a complex relationship between its use and improved survival. Summary: Examination of the literature shows that there may be a mortality benefit from the use of prehospital plasma, but that it may be limited to certain subgroups of trauma patients. The likelihood of realizing these survival benefits appears to be predicted by several factors including the type of injury, length of transport time, presence of traumatic brain injury, and total number of blood products transfused, whether the patient required only a few products or a massive transfusion. When taken as a whole the evidence appears to show that prehospital plasma may have a mortality benefit that is most clearly demonstrated in patients with blunt injuries, moderate transfusion requirements, traumatic brain injury, and/or transport time greater than 20 min, as well as those who demonstrate a certain cytokine expression profile. Key Messages: The evidence suggests that a targeted use of prehospital plasma will most likely maximize the benefits from the use of this limited resource. It is also possible that prehospital plasma may best be provided through whole blood as survival benefits were greatest in patients who received both prehospital plasma and RBCs.
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing: The ABC for the Clinical Cardiologist
Authors: Triantafyllidi Helen , Birmpa Dionyssia , Benas Dimitrios , Trivilou Paraskevi , Fambri Anastasia , Iliodromitis Efstathios K.
Published: October 2021

Background: Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is the most comprehensive technique which allows a holistic approach to cardiopulmonary diseases. Summary: This article provides basic information addressed to the Clinical Cardiologist regarding the utility and the indications of the CPET technique in the everyday clinical practice. Clinical application of CPET continues to evolve and protocols should be adapted to each specific patient to obtain the most reliable and useful information. Key Messages: Clinical Cardiologists with an interest over CPET may become familiar with this exercise method and its main measured variables, refresh their knowledge regarding the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of oxygen transport chain, learn how to interpret the CPET results and promote appropriate patient referrals to experts.
Retina Vascular Structures near the Optic Disc and in the Macula in Primary Angle-Closure Suspects
Authors: Pan Xiaohua , Ruan Merry Z.C. , Fan Wudi , Cao Kai , Feng Hui , Hu Zhongyin , Yang Yue , Yan Fancheng , Zhao Mengya , Liu Qian , Fu Min , Xiang Fei , Lee Richard , Li Shuning , Han Ying
Published: October 2021

Introduction: The main aim of this article was to study the retinal peripapillary and macular vascular structures in eyes with primary angle-closure suspects (PACS) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, control and PACS subjects were recruited from a community screening. Only one eye per subject was used for analysis. All participants underwent a questionnaire survey, physical and ophthalmic examinations, ocular biometry measurements, and OCTA. We compared basic demographics and vessel structure parameters between control and PACS eyes. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to investigate factors associated with vascular parameters in both groups. Results: Data from 254 subjects including 155 PACS and 99 controls were analyzed. In the peripapillary region, PACS eyes showed similar retina nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and vessel densities (VDs) including and excluding large vessels compared to control eyes. Compared to control eyes, all macular OCTA parameters showed significant differences in PACS eyes, including decreased superficial VD (p = 0.006) and deep VD (p = 0.004), larger fovea avascular zone (FAZ) area (p = 0.006), and longer FAZ perimeter (p = 0.004). Gender (p = 0.039), age (p < 0.001), and Garway-Heath superior hemisphere RNFL (p < 0.001) were risk factors influencing optic disc VD excluding large vessels. Axial length was the major factor affecting macula superficial and deep VDs (p = 0.004 and 0.001 respectively), while PACS was an independent factor associated with larger FAZ perimeter (p = 0.046). Conclusion: While PACS and control eyes have comparable RNFL and vascular structure around the optic nerve head, macular vascular structures are significantly different.