bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion of calcium hydroxide fouled with gases evolved from smokestack of glass industry to calcium hydroxyapatite
Authors: Hanna Adli , mousa sahar , fathi nady , Sherief Marwa , abdelmoaty alaa
Published: May 2022

Conversion of industrial wastes to valuable products has become a global requirement to reduce the pollution of environment. This study intended to utilize the solid waste of calcium hydroxide fouled with gases which produced from smokestacks of glass industry by using low-cost and simple procedure. In the current work, this waste was converted to calcium sulfate by treatment with sulfuric acid for preparation of calcium hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles. The produced HAp was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to evaluate the crystalline structure and main functional groups. The thermal stability, the particle size and morphology were studied by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The obtained results confirmed that the produced HAp is well-crystalline, with main surface functional groups of hydroxyapatite which appeared as rods-like of particle size ranged from 11 to 15 nm. Also, the obtained HAp has Ca/P ratio of 1.60 and exhibited high total surface area of 146 m2/g with mesoporous structure leading to this material can be used in medical and water purification applications.
Biochemical profiling of Toko (Livinstonia jenkinsiana Griff.): an endangered underutilized fruit of North East India
Authors: T. Yatung , Veluru Bhargav , K.S. Shivashankara , G.A. Geetha , A.N. Lokesha
Published: May 2022

Livinstonia jenkinsiana Griff. is an endangered multi-purpose palm, mainly confined to the North-eastern states of India. Fruits of the palm are edible and used in chutney preparation by various tribes of northeastern India. Tribal farmers of Arunachal Pradesh are involved in cultivation and conservation of this species based on their traditional knowledge and economic benefits, completely unaware its nutritional attributes are. The metabolite profiling of the fruits from this unique palm was analyzed through gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrophotometry (LC-MS/MS). Palmitic acid (44.93%) followed by oleic acid (32.86%) was found to be the major fatty acids present in the fruit. Malvidin, an anthocyanin compound is responsible for peel colour of the fruit. Predominant sugar, organic acid, phenol, and flavonoid present in the fruit pulp are fructose, citric acid, gentisic acid, and rutin, respectively. The bioactive compounds present in the fruit pulp possess various health benefits. Thus, Livinstonia jenkinsiana can be exploited as a potential minor fruit crop for its various health-benefiting compounds for food and nutritional security.
From waste to valuable resources: exploitation of mineral waste in civil and environmental application.
Authors: Padoan Elio , Tefa Luca , Passarella Iride , Dino Giovanna Antonella
Published: May 2022

Mineral wastes coming from demolition activities, including rock and soil from excavations, and extractive industry, represent the first and the second source of waste production at EU level (35.9% and 26.6% respectively). Although some of these waste products can cause environmental and economic problems if not adequately managed and disposed, they represent an alternative resource for civil, building, infrastructure and environmental applications. This study introduces the state of the art of the research and applications of products arising from mineral waste, with a focus on new potential application of fine fractions for artificial substrate production. The agronomic characteristics of the produced mixes were tested to evaluate their use and the environmental criticalities for land rehabilitation. The results showed that, when mixed with organic materials, the overall quality and fertility of the mineral waste fine fraction was improved, and that this mixture was not phytotoxic. This indicates that when properly managed and treated the mineral waste fine fraction could be effectively employed for land rehabilitation. In general, both coarse and fine mineral waste fractions are valuable alternative construction materials for buildings infrastructures and environmental applications. Sustainable and circular management of mineral waste contributes to guarantee raw materials supply, contemporary reducing environmental (including CO2 production) impacts associated to waste management and landfilling. The potential decrement of environmental impacts and CO2 production will contribute to enhance the NET-zero greenhouse gas emissions EU strategy. Statement of Novelty The present research outlines the possible reuses of different mineral wastes coming from demolition activities and rocks and soils from excavation works as a replacement for natural aggregates, in line with the circular economy paradigm. These materials represent the first source of wastes (in mass) in Europe and innovative processes for their efficient reutilization are needed. This research addressed the main problems connected with their management, focusing on some experimental processes, such as the production of artificial substrates, as a sustainable alternative to contrast the land consumption. However, the updating of the current legislation and the inclusion of these new products for public works (Green Procurement) is regarded fundamental to the effective application of novel technologies.
Lung microbiota dynamics are associated with primary graft dysfunction in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Lian# Qiaoyan , Yi# Xinzhu , Yang# Yalan , Yang# Junhao , Cai Yuhang , Chen Ao , Xu Yu , Wang Xiaohua , Wang Zhang , He Jianxing , Ju Chunrong
Published: May 2022

Rationale: Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) is the most common complication and the leading cause of death in early-stage post lung transplantation. Lung microbiota dysbiosis has been revealed to contribute to allograft lung complications, but the association between lung microbiota and PGD remains unknown. Objectives: We performed a longitudinal survey in 20 lung transplant recipients (LTRs) at an early-stage post lung transplantation aimed to explore the association of lung microbiota with PGD. Methods: 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze the microbiota in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Results: We found decreased microbial alpha diversity with increased PGD severity on day seven post-transplantation. However, on days 14 and 30, the trend was reversed, with a positive association between alpha diversity and PGD severity, suggesting a gradual increase in microbial diversity during the first month post-transplantation. The microbial alpha diversity increased the most dramatically with severe PGD. The increased rates of Streptococcus and Stenotrophomonas were the highest in severe PGD LTRs, indicating rapid proliferation of pathogenic taxa in this subgroup. Rothia and Granulicatella showed continuously decreasing trends with increasing PGD severity, suggesting dysbiosis. Short-term outcomes showed that all LTRs survived 3 months post-transplantation, with severe PGD LTRs having a significantly longer hospital stay than the other groups (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Our results suggest that the lung microbiota is temporally dynamic post lung transplantation, and this dynamism, rather than the static microbiota composition at each time point, is associated with PGD grades. Increased PGD severity is associated with rapid dysbiosis and overgrowth of potentially respiratory pathogenic taxa post-transplantation.
Effect of the combination of bumetanide plus chlorthalidone on hypertension and volume overload in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 4-5 KDIGO without renal replacement therapy: A double-blind randomized HEBE-CKD trial
Authors: Solis-Jimenez Fabio , Perez-Navarro Lucia Monserrat , Cabrera-Barron Ricardo , Chida-Romero Jesus Antonio , Martin-Alemañy Geovana , Dehesa-López Edgar , Madero Magdalena , Valdez-Ortiz Rafael
Published: May 2022

Background: The co-administration of loop diuretics with thiazide diuretics is a therapeutic strategy in patients with hypertension and volume overload. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of treatment with bumetanide plus chlorthalidone in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4-5 KDIGO.Methods: A double-blind randomized study was conducted. Patients were randomized into two groups: bumetanide plus chlorthalidone group (intervention) and the bumetanide plus placebo group (control) both underwent follow-up at 30 days. The study’s registration number was NCT03923933.Results: Thirty-two patients with a mean age of 57.2±9.34 years and a median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 16.7 ml/min/1.73 m2 (2.2-29). There was decreased volume overload in the liters of total body water (TBW) on Day 7 (intervention: -2.5 vs. control: -0.59, p=0.003) and Day 30 (intervention: -5.3 vs. control: -0.07, p=0.016); and in liters of extracellular water (ECW) on Day 7 (intervention: -1.58 vs. control: -0.43, p<0.001) and Day 30 (intervention: -3.05 vs. control: -0.15, p<0.000). There was also a decrease in systolic blood pressure on Day 7 (intervention: -18 vs. control: -7.5, p=0.073) and Day 30 (intervention: -26.1 vs. control: -10, p=0.028) and in diastolic blood pressure on Day 7 (intervention: -8.5 vs. control: -2.25, p=0.059) and Day 30 (intervention: -13.5 vs. control: -3.4, p=0.018).Conclusion: In CKD stage 4-5 KDIGO without renal replacement therapy, bumetanide in combination with chlorthalidone is more effective in treating volume overload and hypertension than bumetanide with placebo.
An effective methodology for software defects prediction using Principal Component-based Multi-layer Perceptron (PC-MLP): A Hybrid Technique
Authors: Mustaqeem Mohd. , Siddiqui Tamanna
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, the software is used almost in every field. The software industry is evolving rapidly, and developing quality software is challenging for developers. Defects in the software are the primary reason for degrading the quality. Software defects prediction is a difficult task. Though researchers have developed several methods to overcome this issue that support the problem, there is room for improvement in software defects prediction. The curse of dimensionality occurs when research is undertaken without feature reduction. Therefore, after consulting several other works of a similar caliber, a hybrid machine learning approach that combines Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for feature optimization with Multi-layer perceptrons for classification has been designed to overcome the hurdle. The proposed model reduces the time complexity of the traditional methods by reducing the number of attributes used for classification. We have used the PROMISE dataset KC1 & CM1 repository from the NASA directory (KC1 2109 observations & CM1 344 observations) to perform our research work. We have divided the datasets into training (1476 from KC1 & 240 from CM1 observations) and testing (633 from KC1 & 104 from CM1 observations). We have employed precision, recall, F-measure, and accuracy in evaluating the model. Using the proposed model, we reduced the time complexity and increased the accuracy by 6% using the KC1 dataset and the previously proposed models. In addition, the proposed model receives a greater score on additional criteria. The primary limitation with Multi-layer perceptrons is that it requires a linearly separable dataset, which can make classifications relatively inflexible. Soon, several new strategies may be introduced to overcome this limitation and maintain a soft-based categorization margin.
Learner’s self-evaluation on performance rating in Linear Algebra at UPOU with asynchronous methods and synchronous meetings
Authors: MASUHAY EDILMAR PATAGAN
Published: May 2022

The purpose of the study showcases the Learner self-evaluation on performance rating as part of giving final grade by uncovering his personal experiences in his education about Linear Algebra at the UPOU. The study adopts and modify the theory of Rappe & Hayman (1996) on self-evaluation as the basis for rating performance, and used the conceptual framework introduced by Mahmood, Othman & Yusof (2012) in gathering data. Then, Grading Rubrics served as the basis for self-evaluation in giving final grade by proficiency indicated in the graphics presentation. In lieu to this study asked questions were hypothetically satisfied which revealed that the Learner compared his impressions about the subject prior and after he took the course; uncovered his difficulties and the causes in linear algebra; emphasized the real significance of the course by enumerating the techniques and skills he acquires which can be helpful on his future career; and described his participation in synchronous meetings with the asynchronous methods, reflected his understanding about the modules, homework, attendance to synchronous meetings, and relating the most helpful aspects about the course; provided self-evaluation on his performance rating from 0 to 100, with 100 being excellent and 60 being average, and justify his self-evaluation performance rating. Thus, based on the Grading rubrics his homework proficiency has accumulated with a total score of 329 over 400 with the equivalent percentage of 82.25% in Homework 1–6 which means within the range from 75–90% this result contemplated that Learner’s proficiency describes that his homework provides a complete, correct, rigorous proof or solution but is not that written well. Comprises also were an outcomes that from monitoring assessment on learning and teaching improvement, it has been recognized by a character that the learner has almost 100% in attendance to the synchronize meetings and participated, communicated in some instance important matters via emails, portal messenger; with complete compliance and perfect submission of homework and obtained a recognizable score by proficiency having 1 item with 60–80%, 1 item with 90–99%, and 9 items with 100%, and finally met a maximum rating score of 100% for final (summative) homework. Systematically, based on results from this study, the Learner’s performance rating probably can be computed anytime in the following criterion: Proficiency in Homework + Characteristic in the Learning Process + Monitoring Assessment on learning and teaching improvement + Learner's Principles in Linear Algebra (rated by the professor) of which the ultimate results for the Learner’s final grade, should be coming from the professor’s personal records and evaluation. Thus, the teacher’s objective criterion on giving final grade is the ultimate verdict.
Crystallization Mechanism and Removal of Mixed Solution in Drainage System of Dolomite Tunnel
Authors: Rao Junying , Xue Yanghao , Tao Yonghu
Published: May 2022

In the construction of tunnels located in the dolomite area, the problems caused by the blockage of the drain pipe (ditch) crystallize one after another. The blockage of the drain pipe (ditch) is one of the potential factors for the leakage of water in the tunnel. Therefore, it is of great engineering significance to find out the factors and mechanisms of crystallization of the dolomite tunnel drainage system. In this paper, the crystallization mechanism and crystal characteristics of the mixed solution of dolomite tunnel drainage system are analyzed based on geological investigation, water quality testing, crystal structure, etc., the causes of crystalline blockage of drainage pipes are analyzed by combining indoor model tests and crystallization breaking tests, and finally, the optimization suggestions of the drainage system are proposed. The results show that the water samples of the dolomite tunnel drainage pipeline belong to the mixed solution of multi-ions, the cations are Ca2+, Mg2+, Al3+, etc., and the anions are CO32−、HCO3−、SO42−, etc. Among them, the mass fraction and concentration of Ca2+, Mg2+, Al3+ are relatively high., while the mass fraction and concentration range of Fe3+、Cu2+、Zn2+、Ba2+ are approximately 0; the crystal powder contains Cl, O, S, K, Ca, Mg, Al, Na and other elements, and the content of Ca, Mg, Al In comparison, Ca is more, Al is less, and Mg is between the two; after the evaluation of the degree of crystallization blockage, it is found that the degree of blockage of the transverse drain pipe per linear meter is higher, the circular drainage pipe is lower, and the longitudinal pipe is between the two. The crystal removal effect is more significant with the increase of the ultrasonic vibration frequency. It is found that the optimal removal frequency is 50 kHz, and the optimization suggestion of the drainage system is given in combination with the "V"-shaped pipeline arrangement.
Study of the mechanism by which Sp1/CD146 induces UCA-PSCs angiogenesis through the WNT/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Yang yangyanjun , Zhu Lihua , Yao Changfang , Li Yuan , Chen Linlin , Ye Wenfeng , Zhang Chunxue
Published: May 2022

Background
Angiogenesis is a significant factor for the cure of ischemia diseases. We found that human umbilical cord vein perivascular stem cells (UCV-PSCs) and umbilical cord artery perivascular stem cells (UCA-PSCs) have markers of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and multidifferentiation abilities similar to Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs). Moreover, UCA-PSCs and UCV-PSCs have stronger angiogenesis ability and cell migration ability than WJ-MSCs, for which the regulatory mechanism remains unclear.
Results
The western blot data showed that, compared with that in WJ-MSCs, the expression of specific protein 1 (Sp1) and CD146 in UCV-PSCs and UCA-PSCs was upregulated, suggesting that Sp1 and CD146 may have an important role in angiogenesis in cell populations. By searching the GenBank promoter database, the binding site of Sp1 was found in the promoter of CD146. A proposed mechanism for angiogenesis is that Sp1 induces the UCA-PSCs angiogenesis process by activating the expression of CD146, which activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. The β-catenin, GSK3β and p-GSK3β expression was upregulated in UCA-PSCs overexpressing CD146 and decreased in UCA-PSCs in which CD146 was silenced.
Conclusion
Our data demonstrated Sp1 activates the protein expression of CD146 in UCA-PSCs via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway mediating angiogenesis. These findings offer new ideas and strategies for the treatment of ischemic diseases.
Minimum dataset development for Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipient registry in Iran
Authors: Taheriyan Moloud , SafaeiNodehi SeyedReza , Kalhori Sharareh R. Niakan , Mohammadzadeh Niloofar
Published: May 2022

Background
The lack of a uniform minimum dataset (MDS) in Iran for recording and reporting the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients across all treatment processes leads to determining a localized MDS by considering two well-known international MDS. This study describes the required MDS development for the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipient registry.
Method
The study was conducted in 2020–2021. An expert panel of three hematology and oncology specialists and three medical informatics were formed. After reviewing datasets of HSCT registries, focus groups, meetings, questionnaire development, and validation, an MDS was determined.
Results
The validated MDS comprises 1177 data elements in 9 sections, including pre-HSCT, leukemia, lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndrome, myeloproliferative neoplasms, combined myelodysplastic syndrome and myeloproliferative neoplasms, plasma cell disorders, hemoglobinopathy, and post-HSCT. The data elements were aggregated by the expert panel based on the MDS of European Bone Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) and Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) registries and the medical records of the transplantation center of Imam Khomeini hospital complex. 399 data items of 1576 were rejected according to the expert's opinion.
Conclusion
In the present study, the validated MDS were developed and will be used in the registry system in the future to record and report the uniform data items of HSCT-related data.
Comparison of the 1% and 2% Pilocarpine Mouthwash in Xerostomic Patients, a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Motamed Babak , Alaee Arezoo , Azizi Arash , Jahandar Hoda , Fard Mohammad Javad Kharazi , Jafari Aryan
Published: May 2022

Aims & Background: Pilocarpine is an accepted treatment for xerostomia, but limited research has been conducted on the oral topical form. This study aimed to compare the effect of 1% and 2% pilocarpine mouthwash in xerostomic patients. Methods: In this double-blind clinical trial study, 48 patients with xerostomia referred to were randomly divided into three groups to measure the effect of 1% and 2% pilocarpine and placebo mouthwashes on saliva levels. The amount of saliva in the 1st and 14th days was measured at 0, 45, 60 and 75 minutes, while patients used their mouthwash three times a day for 14 days. On the 1st and 14th days, patients filled out information forms on xerostomia and drug side effects before and after the intervention. Results: On the 1st day, the mean salivary flow at 45, 60, and 75 minutes in the 2% and 1% pilocarpine mouthwash was significantly higher than the placebo mouthwash group (p<0.05). On the 14th day, the mean salivary flow time at 45 minutes in the 2% pilocarpine mouthwash group was significantly higher than the placebo mouthwash group (p=0.007). The mean salivary flow at 60 and 75 minutes in the 2% (p<0.001) and 1% pilocarpine mouthwash (p=0.028) was significantly higher than the placebo group. Also, in these two times, the salivary flow in the 2% pilocarpine mouthwash group was significantly higher than the 1% pilocarpine mouthwash (p<0.05). No side effects were observed in any of the patients.Conclusions: The study showed that 5 ml of 2% and 1% pilocarpine mouthwash for two weeks increased saliva flow in xerostomic patients, respectively, compared to placebo without any side effects.
Mesenchymal stem cells show time-dependent morphological changes and increased adhesion to degenerated cartilage
Authors: Tanimoto Takahiro , Endo Kentaro , Sakamaki Yuriko , Ozeki Nobutake , Katano Hisako , Mizuno Mitsuru , Koga Hideyuki , Sekiya Ichiro
Published: May 2022

Background

The possibility that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can adhere to partial defects or degenerative areas in cartilage remains to be established. The purposes of this study were to clarify the proportion of MSCs that might adhere to degenerated cartilage, the time course for adhesion, and the morphological changes occurring during the adhesion process.

Methods

Human MSCs were prepared from harvested knee synovium. The surface of a cylindrical piece of pig cartilage was abraded, and the MSC suspension was placed on the abraded surface. After 10 s, 10 min, or 1, 6, or 24 h, the suspension was washed off and the proportion/number of MSCs adhered to the cartilage was quantified by counting non-adhered MSCs, measuring the fluorescence intensity of DiI-labeled MSCs, and observing by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The presence of microspikes or pseudopodia on the MSCs adhered to the cartilage was also evaluated by SEM.

Results

SEM of the abraded surface revealed a sawtooth-like surface with similar fibrillations to those of osteoarthritis cartilage. The non-adhered cell counts indicated that 28% of the MSCs had adhered at 10 s, and this proportion increased to 90% at 6 h. The relative fluorescence intensity was 50% at 1 h and 100% at 24 h. SEM images showed cell counts of 6 cells per field at 10 s, and 290 cells at 1 h. Approximately 30% of the MSCs in suspension had microspikes, but this increased to 71% at 10 s after cell placement and then decreased to 50% at 10 min. SEM showed that MSCs with microspikes were entangled with frayed cartilage collagen fibers. The proportion of MSCs with pseudopodia was 0% in suspension and increased to 49% at 1 h.

Conclusions

MSCs in suspension adhered to degenerated cartilage after placement on the abraded surface. Three independent quantification methods confirmed increases in the proportion/number of adhered MSCs within 10 s of placement and over time up to 24 h. The MSCs that adhered from 10 s to 1 h had a high proportion of microspikes, whereas those that adhered after 1 h had a high proportion of pseudopodia.
The Current Situation of Discharged Patients with Cancer Pain in China: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Shiyi , Ma Xiaoxiao , Li Xin , Yu Wenhua , Yang Hong , Hao Lihua , Lu Yuhan
Published: May 2022

Background and objectives: Many studies have focused on the quality of pain management in hospitalized patients with cancer pain, while what happens after discharge remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore pain conditions of discharged patients with cancer pain in China, to provide a theoretical basis for pain management demands, and finally to improve the quality of life for discharged patients by further research.Research design and methods: Based on an information system for the whole-process cancer pain management of a national cancer hospital in China, we conducted follow-up surveys by telephone for discharged patients with cancer pain who had been hospitalized from July 2020 to October 2021. Some information related to pain management after discharge was assessed and analyzed, including patient-reported background pain (BGP) and times of breakthrough pain (BTP) in the past 24 hours and degree of satisfaction with pain relief. Results: 1013 patients completed the surveys, with an average age of 61.30 (±12.56) years. Their residence addresses were distributed in 6 geographical regions, including 26 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions. Moderate and severe BGP was reported in 749 patients (73.94%), and more than 3 instances of BTP in the past 24 hours were reported in 541 patients (53.41%). More severe BGP was associated with more frequent the BTP (P<0.01). In addition, there were 572 patients (56.47%) whose satisfaction degree of pain relief was lower than 70%. More severe BGP was associated with a lower satisfaction degree (r = -0.796, P<0.01). Conclusion: The findings indicate that the pain of discharged patients with cancer pain is poorly managed in China, and there is a low degree of satisfaction with pain relief. Therefore, a tailored pain management program for discharged patients with cancer pain should be developed.
Comparison of measured and predicted mesiodistal tooth-widths of 13-17 year old Kenyans: a descriptive cross-sectional study to develop a new prediction equation for use in the mixed dentition in a Kenyan population
Authors: Kerre Nduguyu , Ngesa James Lwanga , Ng'ang'a Peter , Kemoli Arthur Musakulu , Janella Bermudez , Seminario Ana Lucia
Published: May 2022

Background: The Tanaka and Johnson equation is commonly used in mixed dentition analysis. However, the analysis is based on Caucasian population making clinical decisions challenging when used in different ethnic groups. This study developed a prediction equation based on a Kenyan population.Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study done in 68 13-17 year old Kenyans of African descent in two boarding secondary schools. Alginate impressions were taken, study models obtained, and mesiodistal tooth-widths measured on upper and lower study models from the first molar to the contralateral first molar. Descriptive, paired t-tests and independent t-tests were conducted and Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients calculated (p<0.05).Results: The mean age was 13.78 years (SD ±0.70), females were 59%. The mesiodistal tooth-widths of the permanent canines and premolars were different between males and females (p˂0.1). The Tanaka and Johnston equation significantly under-estimated the mesiodistal tooth-widths of the permanent canines and premolars (p˂0.05). The addition of lower first permanent molars to the permanent lower incisors provided higher correlation coefficients than the Tanaka Johnston equation. Conclusions: A new equation that includes the permanent lower incisors and first permanent molars as predictor teeth seems to be more suitable for mixed dentition analysis for this Kenyan population. A larger study is needed to validate these findings.
The Sensitivity and Specificity Comparison Between Stool Wet Mount and Kato-Katz Techniques for the Detection of Intestinal Helminths
Authors: Wolde Amsalu Mekonnen
Published: May 2022

Background
In this study the efficiency and sensitivity of stool wet mount and Kato-Katz smear techniques for the diagnosis of intestinal helminthes were compared in order to detect the human intestinal helminths.
Objective
To assess the Sensitivity and Specificity between stool wet mount and Kato-Katz Techniques
Methodology
: A total of 200 stool specimens were collected from school children aged 6 to 16 from four primary schools randomly selected in Badessa woreda, West Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia. Each specimen was smeared on one slide for every technique with a normal saline for wet mount and a cellophane cover for Kato-Katz technique. The overall prevalence of the parasites in each school of the Woreda was determined.
Result
The overall sensitivity of both techniques was calculated. Finally the evaluation of Sensitivity and Specificity of both techniques was interpreted as Kato-Katz technique is more effective and sensitive than stool wet mount technique.
Conclusion
To detect the intestinal helminths especially from carriers and non-symptomatic patients Kato-Katz technique is the selective and sensitive method.
Trends of hepatitis B notification rates in Guangzhou, China, from 2006 to 2020: An epidemiological study
Authors: Liu Wei , Dong Zhiqiang , Hu Wensui , Li Ke , Sun Lili , Hou Jianrong , Jia Shijie , Liu Yuan
Published: May 2022

Background: Although the prevalence of hepatitis B in Guangzhou, China, is high, the epidemiological trends have not been well-documented. We analysed the data of newly reported hepatitis B cases in Guangzhou from 2006–2020, to explore the epidemiological trend and provide a scientific basis for the prevention and development of control measures.Methods: Information on the population and new cases of hepatitis B in Guangzhou from 2006–2020 was obtained from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention, which was used to calculate the annual notification rates of hepatitis B by gender, age group (0–9; 10–19; 20–59; ≥60), and location (urban or rural). The joinpoint regression analysis was used to analyse the time trends and calculate the average annual percentage change (AAPC) and annual percentage change (APC) for each identified trend line segment. Results: From 2006 to 2020, 361,909 new cases of hepatitis B were cumulatively reported. The average annual reporting rate was 189.64/100,000, and after a sharp increase from 2006–2008 (APC: 29.99%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.14% to 50.67%), the notification rate showed a long-term downward trend from 2008–2018 (APC: -7.55%; 95% CI: -8.68% to -6.40%), with an average annual decrease of 1.27% (AAPC: -1.27%; 95% CI: -3.77% to 1.28%). Males had a significantly higher notification rate than females; however, the gender ratio decreased from a maximum of 2.53 in 2006 to a minimum of 1.54 in 2020. A downward trend in notification rate in urban areas and an upward trend in rural areas was observed, with an increase in the rural/urban ratio from 0.41 in 2006 to 1.57 in 2020. The notification rate for all age groups showed a downward trend year by year, except for the group ≥60 years, for whom it started to decrease from 2015. Conclusions: Although the overall notification rate of hepatitis B in Guangzhou was decreasing year by year, it was still high. Especially in rural areas, the notification rate has been increasing in recent years, and effective measures should be taken to control hepatitis B infection in Guangzhou.
Effects of pivot point and spacing on the aerodynamic characteristics of tilting biplane airfoils
Authors: Guo Ruixue , Pei Xinbiao , Qiao Zheng , Bai Yue
Published: May 2022

The effects of pivot locations (xp/c) and spacing (ds=λc) between the biplane airfoils was studied using the numerical method. SST k-ω turbulence model and U-RANS equations were solved when adopting overset grids. The findings revealed the aerodynamic characteristics of tilting biplane airfoil existed phase lag under five fixed pivot points from LE to TE but if the wall effect in the gap was so strong, the hysteresis of CL,lower significantly collapse. Besides, CM curves drop as pivot moves upward comparing to coincident relative and increasing λ could improve total lift coefficients. These results could be explained from the view of vorticity evolution where LEV, SV and TEV showed diverse structures to induce dynamic stall. Additionally, with rearward movement of the pivot point, the emergence of identical flow structures was delayed, and thus aerodynamic characteristics had the high similarity under different xp/c and λ. Therefore, a concept of effective angle of attack of biplane airfoils was first proposed and its function introduced a new factor λ in order to study the backward shift of pivot point in the centerline.
PFKM inhibits doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by enhancing oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis
Authors: Zhou Min , Sun Xiao , Wang Chunli , Wang Fengdan , Fang Chuibi , Hu Zhenlei
Published: May 2022

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a global pandemic which affects about 26 million people. PFKM (Phosphofructokinase, Muscle), catalyzing the phosphorylation of fructose-6-phosphate, plays a very important role in cardiovascular diseases. However, the effect of PFKM in glycolysis and HF remains to be elucidated.Materials and methods: H9c2 rat cardiomyocyte cells were used in this study. Cells were treated with doxorubicin (DOX) to establish injury models. Cell viability was measured using CCK-8 kits. Apoptosis was estimated by TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) staining. Levels of lactate and ATP were measured using commercial kits. Extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and Oxygen consumption rate (OCR) were determined using an XFe24 Extracellular Flux Analyzer. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were used to study the interaction between H3K27ac or histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) and the PFKM promoter region. Phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) was either silenced or overexpressed to study its role. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunoblotting were used for gene expression.Results: DOX treatment significantly inhibited PFKM expression in H9c2 cells. Overexpression of PFKM inhibited DOX-induced cell apoptosis and DOX-decreased glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, while silencing PFKM promoted cell apoptosis and inhibited glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation in H9c2 cells. Moreover, PFKM regulated DOX-mediated cell viability and apoptosis through glycolysis pathway. Mechanism study showed that HDAC1 inhibited H3K27ac-induced transcription of PFKM in DOX-treated cells and regulated glycolysis.Conclusion: PFKM could inhibit DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by enhancing oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis, which might benefit us in developing novel therapeutics for prevention or treatment of HF.
Application of Factorial and Binomial identities in Communications, Information and Cybersecurity
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: May 2022

This paper presents application of the binomial and factorial identities and expansions that are used in communications, information, and cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting the computing systems, communication networks, data and programs from cyberattacks. Its objective is to reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and protect against the unauthorized exploitation of systems and networks. For this purposes, we need a strong security mathematical algorithm like RSA algorithm and Elliptic Curve Cryptography. In this connection, computing technique based on factorial and binomial identities is developed for the researchers who are working in communication and cybersecurity.
FASCIA method in the assessment of lymphocyte mitogen responses in the laboratory diagnostics of primary immunodeficiencies
Authors: Lusila Pauliina , Toivonen Anne , Jarva Hanna , Vettenranta Kim , Lehtimäki Sari , Kekäläinen Eliisa
Published: May 2022

Lymphocyte responses to mitogens constitute a key part of the diagnostics of combined immunodeficiency (CID). Currently, mostly radioactive thymidine incorporation and carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE) dilution methods are used. Flow-cytometric Assay for Specific Cell-mediated Immune-response in Activated whole blood (FASCIA) has been put forth as an easy-to-perform option for the measurement of lymphocyte responses with the advantage of recognising different lymphocyte subtypes and avoiding the use of radioactive reagents. Our aim was to analyse retrospectively the usefulness of FASCIA in the diagnostics of CID. We included all lymphocyte stimulation tests done with FASCIA in HUSLAB (Helsinki, Finland) between February 2015 and September 2018 in our analysis. The cohort was divided into two groups by the patients’ final diagnoses: CID (n = 30) or non-CID (n = 159). We evaluated the stimulation responses with a combined FASCIA-score (the average of all mitogen responses). The FASCIA-score was significantly lower among the CID group compared to the other patients (p = 0.002) and in the ROC-analysis the AUC was 0.75 (p < 0.001) for the FASCIA-score. Of the three mitogens analyzed separately, phytohemagalutinin (PHA) was best in separating patients with CID from the rest (in the ROC-analysis AUC 0.71. p = 0.001). Immunosuppressive medication affected the FASCIA-result significantly and needs to be considered when evaluating results. In conclusion, FASCIA can reliably detect the CID patients from a population tested for suspected immunodeficiency in the absence of immunosuppressive medication. It emerges as a method with many benefits compared to tests requiring radioactive reagents or the complicated CFSE staining.
Effect of Laser Cladding Parameters in Nbc Reinforced 316l Austenitic Stainless Steel Composite Depositions on a Mild Steel
Authors: Apolinário Luis Henrique Rodrigues , Torres Edwar Andres , Araújo Helen Rodrigues , Vicente André Albuquerque , Santos Tiago Felipe de Abreu
Published: May 2022

The cladding process aims to improve mechanical, chemical, and physical features in metal surfaces. The laser cladding process is frequently used to promote such alterations through deposition of metals/alloys with superior mechanical behavior on the substrate. In this contribution, an ASTM A36 mild steel was covered with AISI 316L reinforced with NbC powder as a filler metal using multiple laser deposition steps. The effect of the studied parameters on the geometry, surface appearance, dilution, and macrostructural features were evaluated. The laser power, deposition speed, and powder flux were altered, while the other parameters were kept constant. Increases in power and scanning speed resulted in increased dilution region, whereas the coating material rising led to decreased dilution. The welding speed and the powder flow strongly influence the penetration in the bead-on-plate deposits. This behavior was attributed to the beam’s interaction with the substrate due to the named shadow effect. The metal flow in the deposit is governed by the Marangoni effect, which in the case of the laser process presents a single upward flow direction in the center and descending from the surface and the sides, which determines the location of the particles and pores when used 10% of NbC reinforcing particles. For 30% NbC, particle distribution and porosities are homogeneous inside the pool, due to the more significant agitation produced by the NbC. The porosities are associated with the particles’ dragging of gas towards the pool and NbC precipitate dissolution.
Plasma metabolic signatures for intracranial aneurysm and its rupture identified by pseudotargeted metabolomics
Authors: Sun Kaijian , Zhang Xin , Li Xin , Li Xifeng , Su Shixing , Luo Yunhao , Tian Hao , Zeng Meiqin , Wang Cheng , Xie Yugu , Zhang Nan , Cao Ying , Zhu Zhaohua , Ni Qianlin , Liu Wenchao , Xia Fangbo , He Xuying , Shi Zunji , Duan Chuanzhi , Sun Haitao
Published: May 2022

Background
Whole-body metabolism is emerging as a critical player in the pathophysiology of intracranial aneurysms (IAs). However, the vital metabolic signatures for IA risk stratification and its potential biological underpinnings remain elusive. Therefore, our study aimed to develop an early diagnosis model and rupture classification model by analyzing plasma metabolic profiles of IA patients.
Methods
Plasma samples from a cohort of 105 participants, including 75 patients with IAs in ruptured and unruptured statuses and 30 control participants, were collected for analysis. A pseudotargeted metabolomics strategy based on LC-MS/MS was applied for integration analyses of plasma samples, and significant differential metabolites were identified through univariate and multivariate statistical analysis. Furthermore, an integrated machine learning strategy based on LASSO, random forest and logistic regression were used for feature selection and model construction.
Results
The composition of metabolites changed significantly with the severity of IA. Among them, glutathione metabolism and bile acid metabolism may play a crucial role. Two sets of biomarker panels (M6 & M5) were defined to discriminate IA and its rupture with the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.843 and 0.929 on the validation sets, respectively.
Conclusion
The present study comprehensively characterizes plasma metabolites in different statuses of IA and demonstrates the potential of metabolic markers as non-invasive risk diagnostic tools for IA.
Modeling study of divertor particle and heat flux asymmetries for EAST H-mode discharges
Authors: Deng G. Z. , Lin X.D.
Published: May 2022

The BOUT + + edge plasma transport code is run to study the effects of plasma drifts on the divertor out-in asymmetries (DOIAs) of particle and heat fluxes and their decay widths for EAST lower single null H-mode discharges. The diamagnetic drift seems to have no effects on the DOIAs of total particle and heat fluxes due to its divergence-free nature. However, it could significantly increase the DOIAs of peak particle and heat fluxes and the flux decay widths. The E×B drift is found to induce a large plasma flow to the divertor region, enhancing the DOIAs of both total and peak particle and heat fluxes and the flux decay widths. Both the radial and poloidal components of the E×B drift are necessary in increasing the DOIAs, however, the radial E×B drift seems to play a more important role. The effects on the DOIAs caused by both diamagnetic and E×B drifts are reversed with the reverse of toroidal magnetic field. The outer target heat flux decay width \({\lambda _q}\) could well match with the multi-machine scaling proposed by Eich and the DOIA of \({\lambda _q}\) is in reasonable agreement with the scaling proposed by Goldston.
In-Situ Formation of Co Particles Encapsulated by Graphene Layers
Authors: Lee Minjeong , Kim Gyutae , Jeong Gyu Hyun , Yoon Aram , Lee Zonghoon , Ryu Gyeong Hee
Published: May 2022

The process of encapsulating cobalt nanoparticles using graphene layers is mainly direct pyrolysis. The encapsulation structure of hybrids prepared in this way improves the catalyst stability, which greatly reduces the leaching of non-metals and prevents metal nanoparticles from growing beyond a certain size. In this study, cobalt particles surrounded by graphene layers were formed by increasing the temperature in a transmission electron microscope, and they were analyzed using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Synthesized cobalt hydroxide nanosheets were used to obtain cobalt particles using an in-situ heating holder inside a TEM column. The cobalt nanoparticles are surrounded by layers of graphene, and the number of layers increases as the temperature increases. The interlayer spacing of the graphene layers was also investigated using atomic imaging. The success achieved in the encapsulation of metallic nanoparticles in graphene layers paves the way for the design of highly active and reusable heterogeneous catalysts for more challenging molecules.
Capillary phenomena between plates from statics to dynamics under microgravity
Authors: Chen Shangtong , Duan Li , Kang Qi , Li Wen
Published: May 2022

Plate type surface tension tanks have been widely used in satellites. Capillary phenomena between plates is a important of liquid behaviour in space. Capillary phenomena between plates with varying width and distance under microgravity are analyzed in detail in this paper. A second-order differential equation for the meniscus height is derived and it can be solved by using the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method. To ensure the model’s accuracy during the entire flow process, the influences of the dynamic angle, the friction force, the convective pressure loss and the liquid meniscus in the reservoir are all considered. For a long time period of flow, the convective pressure loss can be neglected and the equation is simplified. This equation is valid for flows between plates with small varying aspect ratios. Theoretical results are in good agreement with numerical results. Besides, influences of the variation of width or distance of plates are discussed. The flow speed won’t vary monotonically as the distance between plates varies parabolically. The optimized flow channel is possible to be obtained based on this equation.
Tunable perfect absorber from visible to near-infrared with insensitive properties to incident angle and polarization
Authors: Zhao Yuanhang , Lin Yuchen , Xiong Ying , Li Zizheng , Wang Xiaoyi , Gao Jinsong
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we propose an Insulator-Metal-Insulator-Metal (IMIM) nano-block array structure, which can achieve tunable single-peak and double-peak perfect absorption properties from visible light to near-infrared. Compared with our previous work, this paper additionally points out that due to the coupling effect between SPPs, the original bule-shifted spectrum is converted into red-shifted during the process of changing the thickness ratio of the middle silver nano-block to the SiO2 nano-block. In the design parameter range, two different structural parameters can be found, which the absorption peak is exactly the same, and the short-wave absorption peak position has the characteristics of "on" and "off". Based on the nature of absorption spectrum, it can be applied to optical switches in optical circuits. And this work also provides a new idea for plasma sensors, which has broad application prospects in the fields of filtering and imaging.