bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ROMANIAN MILITARY PARATROOPERS - 80 YEARS OF HISTORY FOR ROMANIA (PERIOD 1941-1945)
Authors:   “Nicolae Bălcescu” Land Forces Academy Sibiu, Romania, TĂNASE Mircea , TĂNASE Alexandru Mihail ,   “Titu Maiorescu” University Bucharest, Romania
Published: February 2022

In 2021, the military paratroopers celebrated 80 years of existence, since their establishment as a specialty, within the Romanian Aeronautics, later as a distinct weapon and generating, in turn, new military specialties, so necessary for an army that wants to be modern and performant. This specialty, established in the Romanian army at the beginning of the Second World War, was an attempt to respond and align with the needs and, why not, the modernity of the time. Passed through the fire of August 1944, disbanded immediately after the war and reborn from its own ashes in 1950, it managed, despite many hardships and sacrifices, some particularly painful, to impose itself as an elite weapon in the panoply of a modern Romanian army. Side by side with the military aviators, who always supported them with aircraft and aerodrome infrastructure, the paratroopers wrote history for Romania.
CRISIS, OPPORTUNITY FOR CHANGE IN LEADERSHIP
Authors:   ”Carol I” National Defence University, Bucharest, Romania, CHIȘ-MANOLACHE Diana
Published: February 2022

This article presents some arguments that the periods of crisis, dominated by the unknown, uncertainty and change determine the need to increase the degree of adaptability of the leader. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the fact that leaders need two major forces: resilience and adaptability. During this challenging period, leaders had many decisions to make, made plans and acted. With the help of the two characteristics, the leaders were able to make the optimal decisions, both in the short term and in the medium and long term. In order to cope with all t he changes specific to the crisis period, leaders need communication skills, flexibility in thinking and an open mind.
Nadir Postauriküler Pilonidal Sinüs Olgusu
Authors: AVCI Mehmet Alperen
Published: February 2022

Latince kökenli bir dilden gelen kıl "pilus" ve yuva "nidus" kelimelerinden türetilen pilonidal sinüs sakrokoksigeal bölgenin en sık görülen kronik edinsel bir hastalığıdır. Sakrokoksigeal bölge dışında aksillar bölge, umbilikal bölge, göğüs, boyun, skrotum, vulva ve çene gibi kıl yoğunluğunun yüksek olduğu bölgeler dışında atipik olarak yüz, burun, kafa derisi ve kulak gibi yerlerde de bulunabilmektedir. Bizim vakamızda doğuştan beri sağ kulak arkasında şişlik olan 42 yaşında erkek hasta sunuldu. Fizik muayenesinde sağ kulak arkasında yaklaşık 3 cm lik düzgün sınırlı, mobil, ağrısız ve yumuşak kıvamlı kitle lokal anestezi altında total olarak eksize edildi. Histopatolojik incelemede pilonidal sinüs olarak raporlandı. Olgu yerleşim yeri açısından literatür ışığında tartışıldı.
KONTEKSTUALISASI DAN HARMONISASI KESETARAAN GENDER DALAM REALITAS SOSIAL
Authors: Zaki M.
Published: February 2022

The issue of men and women is very interesting when connected with Islamic discourse, which is indeed one component in various social, cultural and even  political changes. Various efforts have been made to develop these issues starting from the deconstruction of the Islamic treasure to its reconstruction efforts. One of the subjects of study is the problem of male and female relations. In the context of these relations, men are always perceived as having a public role area and women are considered as the rulers and determinants of domestic roles. Therefore, both are assumed to have different areas of self-actualization.This cultural barrier, according to feminists, is a cultural and cultural heritage both from primitive society, agrarian society, and modern society. On the other hand a lot of understanding of the text was found to strengthen and even contribute to perpetuating the construction of the culture, which notes that the texts were derived from patriarchal Arabic culture, so that the interpretation is always gender-biased. Whereas in different approaches there are many texts which actually support the equality of relations between men and women.
Konsep Perencanaan Pendidikan Islam Tuan Guru Haji Muhammad Shaleh Hambali Bengkel
Authors: Murzaki Lalu Agus , Sugiarto Fitrah
Published: February 2022

This article focuses on exploring the contents of the book Ta'lim al-Sibyan Bighayat al-Bayan by Tuan Guru Haji Muhammad Shaleh Hambali Bengkel on the concept of educational planning. This article also aims to find a model for the concept of planning Islamic education, with the hope that it can be useful for management and management of Islamic education. This research is a study of the thoughts of figures using library theory or library research, using a historical approach, with data collection methods in accordance with the type of research, namely library research. The data analysis in this study uses the interpretation method (text interpretation), it can also be translated using the text of the book as a research field, in this case the book Ta'lim al Sibyan Bighayati al Bayan which specifically shows the concept of educational planning. From this research, it has been found that 1) the concept of teaching staff planning, curriculum planning and financial planning; The contemporary context that planning is integrated with national ideals, namely building intellectual intelligence and moral intelligence through a planned curriculum and realistic funding.
Khawarij dan Isu Radikalisme
Authors: Fazlurrahman H. Lalu Muhamad
Published: February 2022

Radicalism is the opposite of the moderation values that islam has brought since 1400 years ago which attracts people to study and deepen it but many people argue that the value of moderation in islam is not complete and pure, as evidenced by the thoughts of radicalism among muslims which in its history began in an organized manner since the events of the tahkim or arbitration between Ali and Muawiyah with the emergence of the khawarij sect then continues untill now with the justification of the existing radical or extremist groups using their extreme thoughts in every action.
Penafsiran Sayyid Quthb Tentang Wacana Pluralisme Agama Dalam Al-Qur’an Surat Al-An’am Ayat 108 Pada Tafsir Fi Zhilal Al-Qur’an
Authors: Subki Muhammad , Sugiarto Fitrah , Janhari M. Nurwathani
Published: February 2022

Difference is a necessity that Allah created. Humans on this earth are created differently to get to know each other, understand each other's differences and as a test for us who are destined to live in a multicultural society. Lately we are often faced with problems of intolerance that occur, one of which is due to the maturity attitude of some people in responding to differences, especially in terms of religious pluralism. This paper will explain about pluralism according to Sayyid Qutb's interpretation in the book Tafsir Fi Zhilal Al-Qur'an in Surah Al-An'am verse 108. The research methodology used is the Qualitative Descriptive Method, namely by collecting, describing and analyzing data descriptively for get explanations that lead to conclusions. The results of this research are that as believers, we are asked to maintain our individual personalities, always do good deeds, maintain monotheism and respond to differences with maturity and avoid mutually criticizing behavior among other religious groups. This is intended so that security and peace on this earth are well maintained
Makna Ghuluw Dalam Perspektif Hasbi As-Shiddieqy, Hamka, dan M. Quraish Shihab
Authors: Anwar M. Khoiril
Published: February 2022

Moderasi beragama merupakan cara pandang, sikap, dan prilaku selalu mengambil posisi di tengah-tengah yang dilandasi dengan keadilan serta tidak ekstrem dalam beragama. Lawan kata dari moderasi adalah berlebihan, atau al-tat}arruf dalam bahasa Arab yang mengandung makna extreme, radical, dan excessive dalam bahasa Inggris. Lalu dalam bahasa Arab setidaknya ada dua kata yang maknanya sama dengan kata extreme, yaitu al-ghuluw dan tasyaddud. Penelitian ini terfokus pada makna ghuluw yang ditelaah dari beberapa tafsir yang ditulis oleh intelektual Muslim Indonesia. Kemudian penelitian ini menggunakan studi kepustakaan atau library research. Studi kepustakaan adalah teknik pengumpulan data dengan mengadakan studi penelaahan terhadap buku-buku, literatur-literatur, catatan-catatan, dan laporan-laporan yang ada hubunganya dengan masalah yang akan dipecahkan serta menggunakan metode perbandingan antar mufassir. Permasalahan yang diangkat oleh penulis adalah bagaimana penafsiran para mufassir dalam memaknai kata ghuluw dan bagaimana ciri—ciri perbuatan yang termasuk ghuluw dalam beragama. Penulisan temukan mengenai makna ghuluw diantaranya berlebih-lebihan, melampaui batas dalam beragama. Adapun ciri-ciri perbuatan yang termasuk ghuluw antara lain adanya sifat fanatik berlebihan ini mengakibatkan seorang akan menutup diri dari pendapat kelompok lain dan menyatakan bahwa pandangannyalah yang paling benar sehingga berdampak pada selain pandangannya adalah salah. Kemudian selain itu adalah mengkafirkan orang lain, bahkan menghalallkan darahnya.
Recreating gut-liver axis during NAFLD onset by using a Caco-2/HepG2 co-culture system
Authors: Meroni Marica , Paolini Erika , Longo Miriam , Piciotti Roberto , Tria Giada , Fargion Silvia , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , Dongiovanni Paola
Published: February 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) onset and its progression towards nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) features increased intestinal permeability and leaky gut, thereby favoring the escape of endotoxin [lipopolysaccharides (LPS)] from the gut to the liver. The aim of this study was to resemble the crosstalk between intestine and liver during NAFLD by using an in vitro model of co-culture system. Enterocytes (Caco-2) were seeded on Transwell filters (pore size: 0.4 μm) and cultured for 21 days to constitute a confluent monolayer, and then they were co-cultivated with hepatocytes (HepG2) for an additional 24 h. Caco-2 on the apical chamber were exposed to LPS and/or a mixture of palmitic and oleic acid (PAOA) for 24 h. FITC-4000 dextrans (FD4) permeability across Caco-2 monolayer was increased by the treatment of Caco-2 cells with PAOA and LPS, consistently with tight junction-associated proteins reduction. Caco-2 exposure to PAOA/LPS promoted ApoB, triglyceride (TG), and free fatty acid secretion in basolateral media. In turn, HepG2 co-cultured with Caco-2 exposed to LPS, PAOA, or both accumulated lipid droplets and increased intracellular TG content. Likewise, Caco-2 released pro-inflammatory cytokines in basolateral media. These events triggered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and oxidative stress, enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS), H2O2, aldehyde derivate production, and ROS-induced DNA damage in HepG2 cells. Hence, Caco-2/HepG2 co-culture system may faithfully reproduce the breach in the intestinal barrier integrity that occurs in NAFLD, thus resulting in the increased inflammatory response and ER and oxidative and stress, which promote the switch towards NASH.
Discoid lupus erythematosus – a case report, diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties
Authors: Karasińska Aneta , Polańska Adriana , Bowszyc‑Dmochowska Monika , Żaba Ryszard , Adamski Zygmunt , Dańczak‑Pazdrowska Aleksandra
Published: February 2022

Discoid lupus erythematosus is the most common clinical manifestation of lupus erythematosus. Characteristic features are erythematous plaques with follicular hiperkeratosis, clearly demarcated from surrounding skin, that resolve with atrophy and scarring, leading to significant aesthetic defects. The consequence of involving the scalp is cicatrical alopecia. On the ground of long lasting, untreated lesions squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) may develop. On the other hand SCC remains in the circle of DLE differentiation. We present diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties associated with DLE.
Gravitational Noise Is Asymmetric in the Time Domain and Exists Permanently
Authors: Kramarenko Andrey , Kramarenko Alexander , Savenko Oksana
Published: February 2022

Analyzing the records of gravitational observatories of the LIGO project we have found a specific asymmetry in the time domain, inherent only to the signals of their gravitational detectors. Its comparison with various periodic signals, Gaussian and non-Gaussian noises made it possible to draw a preliminary conclusion that the noise of gravitational detectors is a unique mixture of signals. We have developed our own system of filtering gravitational signals, which uses only linear time-invariant elements. All processing is performed exclusively in the time domain. Detection and recognition of gravitational wave signals were carried out using a specialized Pearson correlation analyzer. It has been revealed that the detectors’ noises include a significant (– 6 dB) component inherent to the reliably detected gravitational waves. This result allows one to reasonably assume that the gravitational noise is largely due to the merging processes of massive astronomical objects. Since the specific noise signal is registered by detectors continuously, the field of gravitational oscillations of sub-kilohertz range can be considered as detected. A method of analysis has been developed to estimate the contribution of the gravitational noise component to the total signal energy. Its advantage can be considered a low requirement for computing power: signal processing is provided in real-time using any PC. With the help of the proposed method, it will be possible not only to begin the radio-frequency estimation of the magnitude of gravitational disturbances, which follows from the recent publications but also, possibly, to construct a map of the gravitational noise of the sky. The hyperlinks to the data files we have been working with, also as the result files are in the paper. We also can provide the source code of our program upon a reasonable request.
An intersectional analysis of the revolutionary limits and potentialities of youtube videos from the anti-racist perspective of Rita Von Hunt on the “Tempero Drag” channel Título em inglês
Authors: Silva Ivanderson Pereira da , Lira Mayara Teles Viveiros de , Voss Lilian Kelly de Almeida Figueiredo
Published: February 2022

This study investigated the limits and revolutionary potential of YouTube Channels that, through informal education, constitute anti-capitalist niches. Its general objective was to analyze videos released on the channel “Tempero Drag” that focus on the issue of incarceration and genocide perpetrated by the hands of the Brazilian State against black and poor children, adolescents and young people. From a specific point of view, it aimed to investigate the limits that the YouTube platform presents for access to content that favors a rational analysis of material reality, based on the intersectional methodological approach, with a view to overcoming capitalism; explore the video channel “Tempero Drag” with a focus on contributions to an anti-racist and revolutionary training; and analyze the videos of this channel with a view to their potential for social agitation towards a society whose foundations are not grounded in racism. For this, the 232 videos of the Channel were verified and of these, two were selected: a) Racism, white thing; and b) War on Drugs. The treatment of the videos was based on the intersectionality of the struggles of social movements. As main results, we found that one of the biggest limiting factors of social transformation on the left, through informal education, regimented on YouTube, within the limits of capitalism, even in niches of revolutionary power that have thousands of followers, are the people themselves. platform algorithms. Indeed, it is through the intersectionality of struggles that the revolution will be possible and not through the intersectionality of identities.
Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis Combined with Thoracic Spinal Stenosis Treated by Endoscopic Surgery
Authors: Liu Guang-pu , Wang Zhen-fei , Han Meng , Zhang Jian-wei , Liu Lei , Xu Qiang , Ma Chao , Liu Guang-wang
Published: February 2022

Case:

A 48-year-old man presented to our facility with debilitating motor and sensory symptoms due to advanced T10-11 thoracic spinal stenosis secondary to diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH). The patient's condition was addressed with endoscopic spine surgery through a yet-to-be-reported interlaminar approach, and at the 12-month follow-up, his neurologic function was significantly improved.

Conclusion:

Select patients with symptomatic thoracic spinal stenosis secondary to DISH can be effectively managed with endoscopic spine surgery through an interlaminar approach by clinicians with extensive endoscopic spine experience.
Simultaneous or Staged Resection for Synchronous Liver Metastasis and Primary Rectal Cancer: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Karam Elias , Bucur Petru , Gil Camille , Sindayigaya Remy , Tabchouri Nicolas , Barbier louise , Pabst-Giger Urs , Bourlier Pascal , Lecomte Thierry , Moussata MOUSSATA , Chapet Sophie , Calais Gilles , ouaissi Mehdi , Salame Ephrem
Published: February 2022

Background:Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in France and by the time of the diagnosis, 15 to 25% of patients will suffer from synchronous liver metastases. Surgery associated to neoadjuvant treatment can cure these patients, but few studies focus only on rectal cancer. This study was meant to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent a simultaneous resection to those who underwent a staged resection (rectum first or liver first) in the University Hospital of Tours, France.Methods:We assessed retrospectively a prospective maintained data base about the clinical, pathological and survival outcomes of patients who underwent a simultaneous or a staged resection in our center between 2010 and 2018. A propensity score matching was used, considering the initial characteristics of our groups.Results:There were 70 patients (55/15 males, female respectively) with median age 60 (54-68) years. After matching 48 (69%) of them underwent a staged approach and 22 (31%) a simultaneous approach were compared. No differences were found in terms of morbidity (p = 0.210), overall survival (p = 0.517) and disease-free survival (p = 0.691) at 3 years after matching. There were significantly less recurrences in the simultaneous group (50% vs 81.8%, p = 0.026) Conclusions:Simultaneous resection of the rectal primary cancer and synchronous liver metastases is safe and feasible with no difference in terms of survival.
Prophylactic Clip Closure for Mucosal Defects is Associated with Reduced Adverse Events After Colorectal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection: A Propensity-Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Omori Jun , Goto Osamu , Habu Tsugumi , Ishikawa Yumiko , Kirita Kumiko , Koizumi Eriko , Noda Hiroto , Higuchi Kazutoshi , Onda Takeshi , Akimoto Teppei , Akimoto Naohiko , Itokawa Norio , Kaise Mitsuru , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: February 2022

Background: Whether prophylactic endoscopic closure after colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) reduces the risk of postoperative adverse events remains unclear due to variabilities in lesion characteristics. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective study using propensity-score matching to evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic clip closure in preventing postoperative adverse events after colorectal ESD. Methods: This single-center retrospective cohort study included 219 colorectal neoplasms which were removed by ESD. The patients were allocated into the closure and non-closure groups, which were compared before and after propensity-score matching. Post-ESD adverse events including major and minor bleeding and delayed perforation were compared between the two groups. Results: In the present study, 97 and 122 lesions were allocated to the closure and non-closure groups, respectively, and the propensity-score matching created 61 matched pairs. The rate of adverse events was significantly lower in the closure group than in the non-closure group (8% vs. 28%, P = 0.008). Delayed perforation occurred in two patients in the non-closure group, whereas no patient in the closure group developed delayed perforation. In contrast, there were no significant differences in other postoperative events including the rate of abdominal pain, fever; white blood cell count, and C-reactive protein; and appetite loss between the two groups. Conclusions: The propensity-score matching analysis demonstrated that prophylactic closure was associated with significantly reduced rate of total adverse events after colorectal ESD. When technically feasible, mucosal defect closure after colorectal ESD may be helpful for a favorable postoperative course.
3E enhancement of freshwater productivity of solar still with heater, vibration, and cover cooling
Authors: dawood mohamed , Omar Abubakr Helmy , Ismail Ali , Shehata Ahmed Samir , Taha Ahmed Abd_Elsalam , El-Shaib Mohamed Nabil , mohamed Madeha Kamel
Published: February 2022

This study focused on experimentally increasing the productivity of freshwater from solar stills. The performance of a single solar still system could be augmented with the combination of an electric heater, vibration motion, and thermoelectric cooling. The study investigated the effect of combining two of these components and finally combining all of them on freshwater productivity. The electric heater and vibration motion are used to enrich the evaporation rate while thermoelectric coolers are used to enhance the condensation rate, leading to high freshwater productivity. The proposal, construction, and testing of two identical solar stills performed under the local climate conditions of the city of Alexandria in northwestern Egypt during the summer and winter times. The two solar stills had a 1 m2 base area. An electric heater of 450 W was placed inside the modified solar still. The modified solar still was fixed on four coiled springs. A 1 hp power DC motor, an inverter, a control unit, and two 330 W photovoltaic solar panels were attached to the modified solar still. Eccentric masses were mounted on the rotating disk attached to the DC motor to generate the vibration. The daily output of freshwater was measured experimentally for the modified case and the conventional solar still under the same climate condition. The daily rates of freshwater productivity in summer were investigated for four cases and the conventional one. Results showed that the peak daily freshwater productivity achieved with the solar heater, thermoelectric coolers, and vibration motion was 12.82 kg/day, with a maximum estimated cost of 0.01786 $/L/m2.
Multi-Task Graph Neural Network For Alzheimer’s Disease Drug Repurposing Using Knowledge Graph And Multi-Level Evidence
Authors: Hsieh kang-lin , Plascencia-Villa Germán , Lin Ko-Hong , Perry George , Jiang Xiaoqian , Kim Yejin
Published: February 2022

Developing drugs for treating Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been extremely challenging and costly due to limited knowledge on underlying biological mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Repurposing drugs or their combination has shown potential in accelerating drug development due to the reduced drug toxicity while targeting multiple pathologies. To address the challenge in AD drug development, we developed a multi-task machine learning pipeline to integrate a comprehensive knowledge graph on biological/pharmacological interactions and multi-level evidence on drug efficacy, to identify repurposable drugs and their combination candidates. We developed and computationally validated a heterogeneous graph representation model with transfer learning from universal biomedical databases and with joint optimization with AD risk genes. Using the drug embedding from the heterogeneous graph representation model, we ranked drug candidates based on evidence from post-treatment transcriptomic patterns, mechanistic efficacy in preclinical models, population-based treatment effect, and Phase II/III clinical trials. We experimentally validated the top-ranked candidates in neuronal cells, identifying drug combinations with efficacy in reducing oxidative stress and safety in maintaining neuronal viability and morphology. Our neuronal response experiments confirmed several biologically efficacious drug combinations. This pipeline showed that harmonizing heterogeneous and complementary data/knowledge, including human interactome, transcriptome patterns, experimental efficacy, and real-world patient data shed light on the drug development of complex diseases.
Modelling Progressive Damage and Failure of Rock under Continuous Cyclic Loading with an Innovative Computing Tool
Authors: Chen Xu , Tang Minggao , Zeng Peng , Li Tianbin , Tang Chun'an
Published: February 2022

An innovative computing tool (RFPA2D-Cycle) was developed for modelling progressive damage and failure of rock under continuous cyclic loading. Firstly, an assumption of linear strength degradation of the mesoscopic elements was proposed by taking stress level and upper and lower limit stresses into consideration. Secondly, the assumption was then implemented into the Rock Failure Process Analysis (RFPA2D) to form the developed computing tool—RFPA2D-Cycle code, which is capable of simulating progressive damage of rock under cyclic loading. Thereafter, to examine reliability of the newly developed RFPA2D-Cycle, cyclic loading tests for sandstone samples were numerically reproduced by establishing a two-dimensional axisymmetric model. Finally, the RFPA2D-Cycle code was further utilized to numerically investigate damage progressivity of underground tunnels induced by remote vertical cyclic loading. The results demonstrated that the newly developed RFPA2D-Cycle code, albeit with limitations, may have potential application in understanding of damage and failure mechanisms of rock subjected to cyclic loading. This innovative computing tool may also be valid to predict the impact of cyclic loading on mechanical behaviors and responses, and be appropriate for analyzing stability in the design and construction of rock engineering projects.
Maximum Recommended And Allowable Radon-222 Limits In Water And Air: Systematic Review.
Authors: Catão Rayssa de Lourdes Carvalho Marinho do Rêgo , Feitosa Patricia Hermínio Cunha , Rodrigues Andréa Carla Lima , Almeida Renata de Albuquerque Cavalcanti , Barbosa Dayse Luna , Guedes Maria Teresa de Jesus Camelo
Published: February 2022

Radon-222 is a radioactive gas that, when inhaled at high concentrations, can harm human health. However, there are several recommended and maximum allowable Radon-222 limits in water and air in the international community. Thus, this research aimed to evaluate the maximum recommended and allowed Radon-222 limits in drinking water and indoor air in the international community, indicating the most referenced organizations in Radon-222 studies through a systematic review. The results indicate that there is variation of up to 1000% between limits established for Radon concentrations in the air indicated by ICRP and US EPA. For water, the maximum limit established by EURATOM is 90 times higher than that established by US EPA. Greater relevance regarding the presence of Radon-222 in the air was also evidenced, due to its potential to detach from various physical means, such as water agitation, its occurrence in building materials and its release by contaminated soil. Finally, it was also found that the limits imposed by US EPA for the presence of Radon-222 in water and air were the parameters most used for comparison in the scientific community and that about 80% of evaluated studies reported from one two sources that proposed Radon-222 limits in air and water.
Hydrogeochemical modeling evaluating carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic health risk of potentially toxic elements, integrating groundwater pollution indexing: Insights of GIS-based and geostatistical approaches
Authors: Rashid Abdur , Ayub Muhammad , Khan Sardar , Ullah Zahid , Ali Liaqat , Gao Xubo , Li Chengcheng , El-Serehy Hamed A. , Kaushik Prashant , Rasool Atta
Published: February 2022

Globally, potentially toxic elements (PTEs), and bacterial contamination in the groundwater gain much attention due to health hazards, persistency, and genotoxicity. The health hazard posed due to PTEs via groundwater contamination is a major public health concern. We aim to evaluate PTEs concentration, carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic health hazard, groundwater quality indexing (GWQI), along with source provenance, fate distribution, and transport. Using new estimates from drinking water standards and health advisories (DWSHA) of water USEPA to calculate carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic health risk. The GWQI-model, principal component analysis (PCA), mineral phases via PHREEQC, spatial distribution by ArcGIS to determine the impacts of groundwater contamination via uniform increase in the concentrations of PTEs using world health organization (WHO) guidelines. PTEs viz. Cd, Cu, Co, Fe, Pb, and Zn were 0.06, 0.27, 0.07, 0.55, 0.05, and 0.19 mg/L and E. coli, F. coli, and P. coli were 27.5, 24, 19 CFU/100 ml. Moreover, anhydrite, aragonite, calcite, dolomite, gypsum, halite, hydroxyl-apatite, and minerals of PTEs viz. monteponite, tenorite, cuprite, cuprous ferrite, cupric ferrite, ferrihydrite, goethite, hematite, lepidocrocite, maghemite, magnetite, massicot, minium, litharge, plattnerite, and zincite were 0.4, 2.4, 2.6, 5.1, 0.6, -4.0, and 11.2, and were -5.5, 2.23, 4.65, 18.56, 20.0, 4.84, 7.54, 17.46, 6.66, 9.67, 22.72, -3.36, 22.9, 3.16, -18.0, and 1.46. The groundwater showed carcinogenic, and non-carcinogenic health hazards for children, and adults. The GWQI showed that 58.3% samples revealed worse water quality. PCA determines the percentage contribution of pollution sources and reveals weathering, minerals dissolution, water-rock interaction, and industrial effluents. The silicate, and carbonate weathering, and ion exchange mechanism altering CaHCO3 type water to NaHCO3 type. However, E. Coli, EC, Turbidity, TSS, PO43─, Na+, Mg+2, Ca+2, Cd, Co, and Pb had exceeded the WHO permissible limit suggested that the groundwater is unfit for household domestic purposes.
Transition to Practice Curriculum for General Internal Medicine Physicians: Scoping Review and National Survey
Authors: Thomson Benjamin , O'Halloran Heather , Wu Luke , Gauthier Stephen , Taylor David
Published: February 2022

Background: There remains a paucity of evidence for curricula for the transition to practice (TTP) stage of Competence by Design internal medicine (IM) training programs. Current entrustable professional activities are based on expert consensus rather than robust subspecialty-specific needs assessment. Methods: A scoping review was completed to identify studies with TTP focus. A national survey was conducted to identify transition experiences for general internal medicine physicians. Results were assessed by grounded theory analysis to identify core topics for TTP curricula. Results: Neither scoping review nor national survey identified TTP topics related to the CanMEDS Medical Expert role. Scoping Review: 41 relevant studies were identified. Most (97.6%) were from North America. The most common study types were observational (survey) or curriculum (13/41 31.7% for each). Only two studies were exclusively in IM, and the most common subspecialty studied was surgical (13/41, 31.7%). The most common TTP topics were mentorship, billing and coding, practice management, negotiating contract and job, and financial aspects of practice. National Survey: There were 44 respondents, with the majority (25/44, 56.8%) having completed an IM subspecialty fellowship. Most (38/44) completed medical school in Canada, and most were from academic practice settings (33/44, 75.0%). The most common TTP topics were billing and coding, personal financial planning, practice management, work-life balance and mentorship. Grounded Theory Analysis: There were six themes that encompassed all TTP topics from the scoping review and national survey, being (i) building a career, (ii) continuing professional development, (iii) expectations of the profession, (iv) practice management, (v) Life, health and well-being and (vi) clinical skills. Curriculum competencies and resources for curriculum development were provided.Conclusions: This study identifies topics critical for curricula development for IM transition to practice. Further research is required to evaluate effectiveness of curricula including topics and themes developed from this scoping review and national survey.
An effective protocol for optimization of in-vitro micropropagation and genetic transformation of Furcraea foetida
Authors: Naz Sheeba , Kayani Hammad , Saeed Bushra , Khan Saifullah , Kauser Naheed
Published: February 2022

Furcraea foetida (Mauritius hemp) belongs to the family Agavaceae, is cultivated for its ornamental, fiber and medicinal value and can survive in xerophytic conditions. Despite its importance, Agavaceae family has not been genetically exploited. In the presented study, a rapid and efficient protocol for micropropagation and genetic transformation of Furcraea foetida has been established. For this purpose, several sets of experiments were conducted. F. foetida displayed best shooting and multiplication at Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) 1.5 mg /L. Successful rooting was induced on MS medium without any plant growth regulator (PGR). The best transformation efficiency was achieved when two weeks old, regenerated shoots were infected with Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA 4404 and co-cultivated for two days on MS medium prepared with BAP 1.5 mg/L and 250 mM acetosyringone. The transformed explants were developed on medium enriched with BAP 1.5 mg/L, cefotaxime 500 mg/L and kanamycin 150 mg/L. The transient GUS histo-chemical assay was carried out in order to find out the transformation. The molecular analysis of transformed shoots was done using PCR which revealed the integration of foreign gene into F. foetida genome. The objective of this study is to exploit Furcraea as bioreactor for molecular farming to produce recombinant pharmaceuticals.
Predictive Modeling of Galvanotaxis Dynamics at the Single-cell Level with Machine Learning
Authors: Sargent Brett , Jafari Mohammad , Marquez Giovanny , Mehta Abijeet , Sun Yaohui , Yang Hsin-ya , Zhu Kan , Isseroff R. Rivkah , Zhao Min , Gomez Marcella
Published: February 2022

Many cell types migrate in response to naturally-generated electric fields. Furthermore, it has been suggested that the external application of an electric field may be used to intervene in and optimize natural processes such as wound healing. Precise cell guidance suitable for such optimization may rely on predictive models of cell migration, which do not generalize. Here, we present a deep learning model that can forecast directedness of cells given a timeseries of previous directedness and electric field values. This model can be used to perform in silico studies by simulating cell migration lines under time-varying and unseen electric fields. Additionally, we show that our modeling approach can be used for a variety of cell types and experimental conditions with very limited training data using transfer learning methods. This predictive approach provides accurate models of cell migration which are suitable for use in control mechanisms with applications in precision medicine.
Fireworks sign: a CT feature of active pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Fang Rui , Pan Jingjing , Zheng Xingju , Jin Xin , Tao Xuemin , Zhao Shaohong
Published: February 2022

Background: Imaging manifestations of active pulmonary tuberculosis (APTB) on CT described in previous studies did not cover a variety of imaging appearances of bronchogenic spread of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and could overlap with many other diseases.Purpose: To propose a CT imaging sign-“fireworks sign” to demonstrate the bronchogenic spread of active pulmonary tuberculosis and correlate with histopathology. Methods: A total of 679 patients with confirmed PTB were enrolled in this study. The histological proof of APTB was obtained by means of sputum smear in 429 patients, bronchoalveolar lavage in 167 patients, biopsy or surgical histopathology in 83 patients. The clinical and imaging data were retrospectively reviewed. The “fireworks sign” on CT which was a focal conglomeration (clusters) of multiple nodules could be classified into three patterns: pistil pattern (consolidation or more nodules in the central region and fewer nodules in the peripheral region), dandelion pattern (fewer nodules in the central region and more nodules in the peripheral region) and peony pattern (nodules evenly distributed in the affected region). Imaging assessment included the pattern, number, site of fireworks sign and other associated imaging features. The histopathological comparison of fireworks sign was also performed in the biopsy or surgical specimens. Results: A total of 180 lesions with fireworks sign were found in 106 patients (106/679, 15.6%), including 71 pistil patterns, 21 dandelion patterns and 88 peony patterns, respectively. More than two patterns of fireworks sign presented in 68 patients. Histopathological proof was achieved in 83 patients and the fireworks sign was composed of centrilobular nodules which corresponded pathologically to caseous necrotic granulomas in bronchioles and alveolar ducts. Single lobe, multiple lobes of unilateral lung, and bilateral lungs involvement was presented in 66.0% (70/106), 6.6% (7/106), and 27.4% of patients (29/106), respectively. The fireworks sign decreased in density or turned into ground-glass opacity during or after anti-tuberculosis treatment in 34 patients in a series of follow-up CT scans. Other imaging features including tree-in-bud sign (21.7%), consolidation (18%), cavity (24%), bronchiectasis (21.7%), pleural effusion (2.8%), pneumothorax (1.9%), pleural thickening (35.9%) and mediastinal lymph node enlargement (13.2%) were also found.Conclusion: The fireworks sign is a CT feature of bronchogenic dissemination of active pulmonary tuberculosis and histopathologically corresponds to a comglomeration of caseous necrotic granulomas in the bronchiole and alveolar ducts.
Development of DNA barcode for freshwater microalgae species revealing it’s evolutionary insights on diversity in Noyyal river of Western ghats, India
Authors: Sureshkumar Pandian , Thomas Jibu , Bhakta Sukumar
Published: February 2022

The identification of microalgae is extremely difficult solely based on morphological features. DNA based classification is particularly performed for unveiling cryptic diversity at various taxonomic levels and identifying species where structural characteristics are few or difficult to ascertain. The efficiency of DNA barcoding in recognizing microalgae involves generation of multiple gene markers and phylogenetic approaches that are however attaining significance. In this study, the feasibility of using DNA markers to identify a diverse and also poorly known group of green microalgae isolated from freshwater of Siruvani, Coimbatore was evaluated. DNA extracted from 23 freshwater microalgae cultures (Karunya Algae Culture Collection) was amplified using 18S, 28S, ITS and 18S region specific for Chlorophyaceae with amplification success rate of 86.95%, 82.60%, 43.47% and 69.59% respectively. Ambiguity among the 22 out of 23 microalgae isolates was unveiled using the results generated from the phylogenetic analysis and morphological data, thus confirming the taxonomical identity. Generated sequences of KACC microalgae were deposited in GENBANK and BOLD database for further use as reference barcodes for microalgae identification. In conclusion our findings highlight barcode database as powerful tool in microalgae identification and further it uncover new perspectives in species diversity on a global scale.
Factors Influencing the Uptake of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision Among Boda-Boda Riders Aged 18-49 Years in Hoima, Western Uganda
Authors: Tusabe Joan , Muyinda Herbert , Nangendo Joanita , Kwesiga Doris , Nabikande Sharifah , Muhoozi Michael , Agwang Winnie , Okello Tom , Rutebemberwa Elizeus
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
We assessed factors influencing the uptake of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) among boda-boda riders aged 18–49 years in Hoima, western Uganda. Despite high levels of awareness about availability and benefits of VMMC, uptake was still low. Multiple intervention strategies are needed to improve uptake of VMMC in this key population.
Methods
We employed the convergent parallel mixed methods design among boda-boda riders in Hoima municipality between August and September 2020. We administered a structured questionnaire to 316 boda-boda riders to determine factors associated with uptake of VMMC. We also conducted eight focus group discussions (FGDs) and six key informant interviews (KIIs) to explore perceptions of VMMC. To determine factors associated with VMMC, we conducted modified poisson regression analysis at 5% level of significance. We identified sociocultural barriers and facilitators for VMMC using thematic content analysis.
Results
Uptake of VMMC was at 33.9% (95% CI; 28.6–39.1); and was associated with higher level of education; adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) 1.63, 95% CI; 1.12–2.40), concern about being away from work; APR 0.66 (95% CI; 0.49–0.88) and the non-belief that VMMC diminishes sexual performance APR 1.78 (95% CI; 1.08–2.9). Facilitators of uptake of VMMC were health education and awareness creation, improved penile hygiene and perceived sexual functioning; and reduced chances of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). On the other hand, the barriers to uptake were fear of pain and compulsory HIV testing, healing duration, financial loss during the healing period, fear of sexual misbehavior after circumcision, interruption of God’s creation and fear of loss of male fertility.
Conclusion
Although VMMC is largely perceived as protective against HIV and other STIs, deliberate measures using multiple strategies should be put in place to address the barriers to its uptake.
Construction and Validation of Immune-Related LncRNA Signature to Predict the Prognosis and Therapeutic Efficacy of Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Shujing , Yang Jiezhen , Kwantwi Louis , Ding Changhai , Wu Qiang
Published: February 2022

Breast cancer ranks first in morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. The immune microenvironment including immune-related long non-coding RNAs (irlncRNAs) are involved in various processes in tumors. We downloaded the RNA-sequencing data and corresponding clinical characteristics of breast samples from TCGA website and obtained the irlncRNAs and identified differentially expressed irlncRNAs (DEirlncRNAs) compared tumor with normal samples. Cox and Lasso regression analysis were used to establish a risk model after DEirlncRNAs were cyclically and separately paired. 15 DEirlncRNAs pairs were used to construct the risk model and to distinguish the high- or low-risk groups based on the median value of risk score. Patients in the high-risk group had a poorer prognosis, more aggressive clinicopathologic features, lower expression of immune checkpoint inhibitors, and higher drug sensitivity. The high-risk group was positively related to cancer-promoting immune cells like M2 macrophages, and negatively associated with anti-cancer immune cells like T cells. Gene set enrichment analysis were performed to investigate the potential molecular mechanisms on tumor progression. We constructed a risk model, which based on the relative expression values of the two irlncRNAs, could predict the prognosis of breast cancer patients, as well as the efficacy of immunotherapy and chemotherapy.
Talking with pediatric patients with overweight or obesity and their parents: perceived self-efficacy and barriers of Dutch healthcare professionals from seven different professions. A self-report study
Authors: Voorn Bibian van der , Camfferman Roxanna , Seidell Jacob C. , Halberstadt Jutka
Published: February 2022

Background: Many healthcare professionals (HCPs) feel uncomfortable and incompetent to talk about weight with children with overweight and obesity and their parents. To optimally target interventions that can improve obesity care for children, we assessed the self-efficacy (SE) and perceived barriers (PBs) of Dutch HCPs in regard to talking about weight and lifestyle when treating children with overweight or obesity. In addition, we analyzed interdisciplinary differences.Methods: A newly developed, practice- and literature-based questionnaire was completed by 578 HCPs of 7 different professions. Kruskal-Wallis, t-tests and chi-square tests were used to analyze interdisciplinary differences on SE, PBs and the effort to discuss weight and lifestyle despite barriers. Results: On average for the total group, the reported strength of SE was 7.2 (range 3-10; scale 1-10), and the median number of different PBs was 4.0 (range 0-12; out of 17). The majority of HCPs (94.6%) reported that they perceived one or more barriers.HCPs who perceived too many barriers to discuss the weight and lifestyle of the child in the majority of cases (9.6%), reported a lower SE (mean 6.3), as compared to professionals who were likely to discuss these topics (mean SE 7.3 p < 0.01), although a similar number of PBs. In total, 14.2% (n = 82) of all HCPs either rated their SE below 5 or reported that they did not address weight and lifestyle due to PBs in the majority of cases.Conclusions: Although on average Dutch HCPs rated their self-efficacy fairly good, for a subgroup major improvements are necessary to lower perceived barriers and improve their self-efficacy, aiming to improve the quality of care for Dutch children with obesity.
Single cell profiling of bronchoalveolar immune cells in checkpoint inhibitor-related pneumonitis
Authors: Cui Pengfei , Li Jinfeng , Tao Haitao , Li Xiaoyan , Wu Liangliang , Ma Junxun , Wang Huanhuan , Huang Di , Huang Ziwei , Chen Shixue , Zhang Min , Hu Yi
Published: February 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy induced pneumonitis (CIP) complicates this effective in therapy patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we implemented comprehensive single-cell transcriptome, flow cytometry and cytokine expression analysis to shed light on the complexity of the immunological responses in the bronchoalveolar microenvironment from NSCLC patients with CIP. We demonstrated a dramatic accumulation of CXCL13+ CD4 and CD8 T cells with highly cytotoxic and effector functions in CIP. Monocyte differentiation trajectories showed that hyperinflammatory monocytes and LAMP3+ dendritic cells (DCs) were enriched in CIP, while anti-inflammatory macrophages were depleted. Multilineages intercellular crosstalk analysis revealed that CIP specific myeloid subsets could recruit and enhance CXCL13+ T cells cytotoxic function through CXCL9/10-CXCR3 and IFNGR1/2-IFNG pathway, respectively. Together, our data highlighted the importance of CXCL13+ T cells and LAMP3+ DCs in CIP pathogenesis, which could be non-invasive biomarkers to monitor CIP.