bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Retracted] Clinical Value Analysis of High‐Frequency Ultrasound Combined with Carpal Dorsiflexion Electrophysiological Detection in the Diagnosis of Early Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Gu Yadong , Lu Fei , Cui Shuo , Zhao Huafei , Yuan Zhengjiang
Published: March 2022

Objective. To investigate the clinical value of ultrasound combined with electrophysiological examination in the diagnosis of early carpal tunnel syndrome, we aimed to provide a new EMG (electromyography) method for detecting early carpal tunnel syndrome by exploring the wrist back stretch position and electrophysiological examination. Methods. For the 82‐lateral wrist (case group) of 62 patients with clinical symptoms or confirmed carpal tunnel syndrome and 40 normal healthy patients, neuroelectrophysiological measurements were performed using a Keypoint6.0 EMG evoked potentiometer, measuring each group twice: conventional position (before compression) and dorsal wrist extension position. The measures for each measurement included DSL, DML, and CAMP. Measure sensory conduction first and then measure motor conduction. The measurements were analyzed in a comprehensive comparative analysis. Combined ultrasound examination, the positive rate of combined ultrasound examination and electrophysiological examination was compared, respectively. Results. In the carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) group, the anterior and posterior median nerve DSL was (4.27 ± 0.73) ms and (4.82 ± 0.65) ms, and SNAP was (13.32 ± 13.68) UV and (12.19 ± 11.04) UV; the median nerve (wrist‐bunions) DML was (5.29 ± 1.26) ms and (5.54 ± 1.29) ms, and CMAP was (6.44 ± 2.40) mV and (6.21 ± 2.46) mV. Mid‐median DSL and DM in the CTS group L were significantly longer than before compression; median nerve SNAP and CMAP were significantly reduced compared with before compression. Conclusion. Electrophysiological testing at the dorsal carpal extension position has high diagnostic value in the diagnosis of mild carpal tunnel syndrome. It helps to improve the diagnostic rate of early carpal tunnel syndrome, while providing a more accurate and effective EMG detection of early carpal tunnel syndrome, and combination examination of neuroelectrophysiology and ultrasound can improve the diagnosis rate of compression peripheral nerve diseases and clarify the site, nature, and scope of compression lesions, which is worthy of clinical application.
Application of Artificial Intelligence Combined with Three-Dimensional Digital Technology in the Design of Complex Works of Art
Authors: Niu Zhiyuan , Xiang Shishi , Zhang Min
Published: March 2022

Technological advancement is leaving its imprint on all domains and making works more accessible. They have also taken steps in the arts and crafts. Old arts and crafts can be given new life with digital technology. A combination of artificial intelligence and three-dimensional digital technology converts art images into three-dimensional image art by identifying the frequency of the image and storing the details in a database. This process is performed by transferring the image data through wireless sensor networks. The conversion of normal images into three-dimensional digital technology is achieved with the aid of sensors available in digital technology. This data will aid in the easy identification of the images. The Surface Wavefront Reconstruction on Fast Fourier Transform (SWRFFT) Method is implemented, evaluating the performance of a combination of AI and three-dimensional technology. This proposed method is compared with the existing system, and it is observed that the proposed SWRFFT method provides a 2.47% increased accuracy rate in the correlation of the image with the frequency generation.
The Effects of Occupation-Based Community Rehabilitation for Improving Activities of Daily Living and Health-Related Quality of Life of People with Disabilities after Stroke Living at Home: A Single Subject Design
Authors: Moon KwangTae , Jang WanHo , Park Hae Yean , Jung MinYe , Kim JongBae
Published: March 2022

Objective. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of occupation-based community rehabilitation on activity daily of living and health-related quality of life of people with disabilities after stroke at home. Method. In this study of three people with disabilities after stroke living at home, A-B-A single-subject design was used. The occupation-based community rehabilitation was implemented during the intervention phase. It included task oriented and feedback, related information education, home environment modification, and community resource network. After applying the intervention, changes in activities of daily living and health-related quality of life were evaluated by the Modified Barthel Index (MBI), the EuroQol-5 dimension (EQ-5D), and the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS). Result. After applying the occupation-based community rehabilitation program, all three participants’ daily life activities and quality of life improved. In addition, the occupational performance skills in all participants were maintained. Conclusion. It was confirmed that individual occupational-based community rehabilitation had a positive effect on the activities of daily living and quality of life improvement of the people with disabilities after stroke at home.
Development and Testing of TRACE/PARCS ECI Capability for Modelling CANDU Reactors with Reactor Regulating System Response
Authors: Younan Simon , Novog David R.
Published: March 2022

The use of the USNRC codes TRACE and PARCS has been considered for the coupled safety analysis of CANDU reactors. A key element of CANDU simulations is the interactions between thermal-hydraulic and physic phenomena with the CANDU reactor regulating system (RRS). To date, no or limited development has taken place in TRACE-PARCS in this area. In this work, the system thermal-hydraulic code TRACE_Mac1.0 is natively coupled with the core physic code PARCS_Mac1.0, and RRS control is implemented via the exterior communications interface (ECI) in TRACE. ECI is used for coupling the external codes to TRACE, including additional physical models and control system models. In this work, a Python interface to the TRACE ECI library is developed, along with an RRS model written in Python. This coupling was tested using a CANDU-6 IAEA code coupling benchmark and a 900 MW CANDU model for various transients. For the CANDU-6 benchmark, the transients did not include RRS response, however, the TRACE_Mac1.0/PARCS_Mac1.0 coupling and ECI script functionality was compared to the previous benchmark simulations, which utilized external coupling. For the 900 MW CANDU simulations, all aspects of the ECI module and RRS were included. The results from the CANDU-6 benchmark when using the built-in coupling are comparable to those previously achieved using external coupling between the two codes with coupled simulations taking 2x to 3x less execution time. The 900 MW CANDU simulations successfully demonstrate the RRS functionality for the loss of flow events, and the coupled solutions demonstrate adequate performance for figure-of-eight flow instability modeling.
Rapid Identification of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Genes Using Direct PCR Amplification and Oxford Nanopore Technology Sequencing
Authors: Zhao Kaishun , Tu Chunlin , Chen Wei , Liang Haiying , Zhang Wenjing , Wang Yilei , Jin Ye , Hu Jianrong , Sun Yameng , Xu Jun , Yu Yanfang
Published: March 2022

Mycobacterium tuberculosis antimicrobial resistance has been continually reported and is a major public health issue worldwide. Rapid prediction of drug resistance is important for selecting appropriate antibiotic treatments, which significantly increases cure rates. Gene sequencing technology has proven to be a powerful strategy for identifying relevant drug resistance information. This study established a sequencing method and bioinformatics pipeline for resistance gene analysis using an Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencer. The pipeline was validated by Sanger sequencing and exhibited 100% concordance with the identified variants. Turnaround time for the nanopore sequencing workflow was approximately 12 h, facilitating drug resistance prediction several weeks earlier than that of traditional phenotype drug susceptibility testing. This study produced a customized gene panel assay for rapid bacterial identification via nanopore sequencing, which improves the timeliness of tuberculosis diagnoses and provides a reliable method that may have clinical application.
Effects of Long-Term Vagus Nerve Electrical Stimulation Therapy on Acute Cerebral Infarction and Neurological Function Recovery in Post MCAO Mice
Authors: Du Li , Yang Zhenxing , Sheng Huaxin , Liu Min , Sun Qian
Published: March 2022

Background. Vagus nerve stimulation therapy is proven to produce neuroprotective effects against central nervous system diseases and reduce neurological injury, having a positive effect on the recovery of neurological functions in mouse model of stroke. Objective. This study was aimed at exploring a wider time window for VNS treatment, investigating the long-term behavioral improvement of long-term VNS in mice after pMCAO, and exploring the antiapoptotic properties of VNS and its role in autophagy, all of which may be a permanent deficiency potential mechanism of neuroprotection in hemorrhagic stroke. Methods. Permanent focal cerebral ischemia and implantation of vagus nerve stimulator were performed through intracavitary occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery (MCA). The vagus nerve stimulation group received five times vagus nerve stimulation from 6 h after surgery for 5 days. Adhesive removal test and NSS neurological score were used to evaluate the neurological deficit of mice. TTC staining of mouse brain tissue was performed one week after surgery in order to assess the area of cerebral infarction. Additionally, frozen sections were stained with Fluoro-Jade B to observe the apoptotic cells in the ischemic penumbra of brain tissue. Finally, Western blot was used to detect the changes in the levels of apoptosis-related proteins such as cleaved-caspase3 and Bcl-2 and autophagy-related proteins such as mTOR, Beclin-1, and LC3-II in brain tissue. Results. VNS can effectively reduce the behavioral score of pMCAO mice; TTC results showed that VNS could effectively reduce the infarct area after pMCAO (

P
<
0.05

). After VNS intervention of the pMCAO group compared with the pMCAO+VNI group, the FJB-positive cells in the VNS group were significantly decreased (

P
<
0.05

); Western Blot analysis showed that the expression of cleaved-caspase3 in the brain tissue of mice increased after pMCAO (

P
<
0.05

), and the expression of Bcl-2 decreased (

P
<
0.05

). This change could be effectively reversed after VNS intervention (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. VNS could effectively improve the behavioral performance of mice after permanent stroke in addition to significantly reducing the infarct size of the brain tissue. The mechanism may be related to the effective reduction of cell apoptosis and excessive autophagy after pMCAO by VNS.
Analysis Model of Spoken English Evaluation Algorithm Based on Intelligent Algorithm of Internet of Things
Authors: Xue Nan
Published: March 2022

With the in-depth promotion of the national strategy for the integration of artificial intelligence technology and entity development, speech recognition processing technology, as an important medium of human-computer interaction, has received extensive attention and motivated research in industry and academia. However, the existing accurate speech recognition products are based on massive data platform, which has the problems of slow response and security risk, which makes it difficult for the existing speech recognition products to meet the application requirements for timely translation of speech with high response time and network security requirements under the condition of network instability and insecurity. Based on this, this paper studies the analysis model of oral English evaluation algorithm based on Internet of things intelligent algorithm in speech recognition technology. Firstly, based on the automatic machine learning and lightweight learning strategy, a lightweight technology of automatic speech recognition depth neural network adapted to the edge computing power is proposed. Secondly, the quantitative evaluation of Internet of things intelligent classification algorithm and big data analysis in this system is described. In the evaluation, the evaluation method of oral English characteristics is adopted. At the same time, the Internet of things intelligent classification algorithm and big data analysis strategy are used to evaluate the accuracy of oral English. Finally, the experimental results show that the oral English feature recognition system based on Internet of things intelligent classification algorithm and big data analysis has the advantages of good reliability, high intelligence, and strong ability to resist subjective factors, which proves the advantages of Internet of things intelligent classification algorithm and big data analysis in English feature recognition.
Construction of Bone Metastasis-Specific Regulation Network Based on Prognostic Stemness-Related Signatures in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhuang Juanwei , Li Mingxiao , Zhang Xinkun , Xian Shuyuan , Zhang Jie , Yin Huabin , Liu Yifan , Fan Mingxiang , Li Zhenyu , Zhu Xiaolong , Lin Ruoyi , Wang Siqiao , Zhou Zhitong , Wei Chenlu , Yan Penghui , Meng Tong , Huang Runzhi , Huang Zongqiang
Published: March 2022

Background. We planned to uncover the cancer stemness-related genes (SRGs) in prostate cancer (PCa) and its underlying mechanism in PCa metastasis. Methods. We acquired the RNA-seq data of 406 patients with PCa from the TCGA database. Based on the mRNA stemness index (mRNAsi) calculated by one-class logistic regression (OCLR) algorithm, SRGs in PCa were extracted by WGCNA. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were applied to uncover OS-associated SRGs. Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA), Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), and Pearson’s correlation analysis were performed to discover the possible mechanism of PCa metastasis. The significantly correlated transcription factors of OS-associated SRGs were also identified by Pearson’s correlation analysis. ChIP-seq was applied to validate the binding relationship of TFs and OS-associated SRGs and spatial transcriptome and single-cell sequencing were performed to uncover the location of key biomarkers expression. Lastly, we explored the specific inhibitors for SRGs using CMap algorithm. Results. We identified 538 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between non-metastatic and metastatic PCa. Furthermore, OS-associated SRGs were identified. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed that FOXM1 was significantly correlated with NEIL3 (correlation efficient =0.89,

p
<
0.001

) and identified hallmark_E2F_targets as the potential pathway mechanism of NEIL3 promoting PCa metastasis (correlation efficient =0.58,

p
<
0.001

). Single-cell sequencing results indicated that FOXM1 regulating NEIL3 may get involved in the antiandrogen resistance of PCa. Rottlerin was discovered to be a potential target drug for PCa. Conclusion. We constructed a regulatory network based on SRGs associated with PCa metastasis and explored possible mechanism.
Numerical Solution of In-Viscid Burger Equation in the Application of Physical Phenomena: The Comparison between Three Numerical Methods
Authors: Koroche Kedir Aliyi
Published: March 2022

In this paper, upwind approach, Lax–Friedrichs, and Lax–Wendroff schemes are applied for working solution of In-thick Burger equation in the application of physical phenomena and comparing their error norms. First, the given solution sphere is discretized by using an invariant discretization grid point. Next, by using Taylor series expansion, we gain discretized nonlinear difference scheme of given model problem. By rearranging this scheme, we gain three proposed schemes. To verify validity and applicability of proposed techniques, one model illustration with subordinated to three different original conditions that satisfy entropy condition are considered, and solved it at each specific interior grid points of solution interval, by applying all of the techniques. The stability and convergent analysis of present three techniques are also worked by supporting both theoretical and numerical fine statements. The accuracy of present techniques has been measured in the sense of average absolute error, root mean square error, and maximum absolute error norms. Comparisons of numerical gets crimes attained by these three methods are presented in table. Physical behaviors of numerical results are also presented in terms of graphs. As we can see from numerical results given in both tables and graphs, the approximate solution is good agreement with exact solutions. Therefore, the present systems approaches are relatively effective and virtually well suited to approximate the solution of in-viscous Burger equation.
8-Oxoguanine DNA Glycosylase (OGG1) Deficiency Exacerbates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Anene-Nzelu Chukwuemeka George , Li Peter Yiqing , Luu Tuan Danh Anh , Ng Shi Ling , Tiang Zenia , Pan Bangfen , Tan Wilson Lek Wen , Ackers-Johnson Matthew , Chen Ching Kit , Lim Yee Phong , Qin Rina Wang Miao , Chua Wee Woon , Yi Lim Xin , Foo Roger Sik-Yin , Nakabeppu Yusaku
Published: March 2022

Doxorubicin is an anthracycline widely used for the treatment of various cancers; however, the drug has a common deleterious side effect, namely a dose-dependent cardiotoxicity. Doxorubicin treatment increases the generation of reactive oxygen species, which leads to oxidative stress in the cardiac cells and ultimately DNA damage and cell death. The most common DNA lesion produced by oxidative stress is 7,8-dihydro-8-oxoguanine (8-oxoguanine), and the enzyme responsible for its repair is the 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1), a base excision repair enzyme. Here, we show that the OGG1 deficiency has no major effect on cardiac function at baseline or with pressure overload; however, we found an exacerbation of cardiac dysfunction as well as a higher mortality in Ogg1 knockout mice treated with doxorubicin. Our transcriptomic analysis also showed a more extensive dysregulation of genes in the hearts of Ogg1 knockout mice with an enrichment of genes involved in inflammation. These results demonstrate that OGG1 attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and thus plays a role in modulating drug-induced cardiomyopathy.
Establishment of Rapid Detection Methods for rs76971248 Related to Leukemia
Authors: Sun Li-Yan , Li Zhen , Wang Song-Xing , Chen Hao , Sun Ze-Tao , Peng Long , He Liu-Mei , Xu Yun-Ping
Published: March 2022

Background. The HLA-E gene is a member of the HLA-I gene family. Its genetic polymorphism is regarded as associated with numerous diseases. Establishing a rapid and accurate detection method of disease-related SNP sites in HLA-E is particularly important. Methods. Blood samples from 226 healthy blood donors and 228 leukemia patients were collected, and DNA was extracted. Three typing methods based on PCR-sequence-based typing, TaqMan genotyping, and high-resolution melting curve were established to identify rs76971248 (G>T). The Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis by SPSS. Results. Three methods based on PCR-SBT, TaqMan genotyping, and HRM were all able to identify rs76971248. The software for analyzing the results of HLA-E sequencing was easy to use, and the results were accurate. The frequency of rs76971248 in different types of leukemia patients was significantly lower than that in healthy blood donors (

p
<
0.05

). And the frequency of the G/G genotype in leukemia patients was significantly higher than that in healthy blood donors (

p
<
0.05

). Conclusions. For the screening of known SNP sites in large-scale populations, among the three methods, the TaqMan genotyping method had the advantage of shortest time consumption, simplest operation, and greatest specificity, which was the most appropriate method for this experiment. The analysis software for HLA-E gene sequencing needed to be further optimized. rs76971248 had a protective effect against leukemia. And the G/G genotype was a risk factor for leukemia.
Urinary Podocyte Count as a Potential Routine Laboratory Test for Glomerular Disease: A Novel Method Using Liquid-Based Cytology and Immunoenzyme Staining
Authors: Sakane Junichi , Kitayama Hirotsugu , Inoue Takashi , Nakamura Akihiro , Yamada Masayoshi , Miyama Yudai , Kawamura Hideki , Iwafuchi Hideto , Kamoshida Shingo , Ohsaki Hiroyuki
Published: March 2022

Introduction: This study investigated whether our urinary podocyte detection method using podocalyxin (PDX) and Wilms tumor 1 (WT1) immunoenzyme staining combined with liquid-based cytology can serve as a noninvasive routine laboratory test for glomerular disease. Methods: The presence of PDX- and WT1-positive cells was investigated in 79 patients with glomerular disease and 51 patients with nonglomerular disease. Results: The frequencies and numbers of PDX- and WT1-positive cells were significantly higher in the glomerular disease group than in the nonglomerular disease group. The best cutoffs for PDX- and WT1-positive cell counts for identifying patients with glomerular disease were 3.5 (sensitivity = 67.1% and specificity = 100%) and 1.2 cells/10 mL (sensitivity = 43.0% and specificity = 100%), respectively. Conclusion: Because our urinary podocyte detection method using PDX immunoenzyme staining can be standardized and it detected glomerular disease with high accuracy, it can likely serve as a noninvasive routine laboratory test for various glomerular diseases.
A Case-Control Study of the Luteinizing Hormone Level in Luteinizing Hormone Receptor Gene (rs2293275) Polymorphism in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Females
Authors: Atoum Manar Fayiz , Alajlouni Mai Mahamad , Alzoughool Foad
Published: March 2022

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common heterogeneous disorder characterized by chronic anovulation, infertility, polycystic ovaries, and hyperandrogenic signs. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the association of luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin hormone receptor LHCGR polymorphism (rs2293275) with oligomenorrhea, amenorrhea, hirsutism, acne, infertility, LH, LH/FSH ratio, and body mass index (BMI) among PCOS females. Methods: This genetic case-control study recruited 55 PCOS and 55 control females, diagnosed based on the Rotterdam criteria. LH and FSH were measured by the Roche cobas c 502 automated analyzer. Genotypic analysis was carried out using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism and restriction endonuclease digestion. Results: BMI was higher for PCOS patients (28.5 ± 6.59) compared to controls (25.1 ± 5.77), and ovulatory dysfunction was seen among 90% of PCOS females. Oligomenorrhea was common in PCOS (73%), and hirsutism and acne were detected in PCOS (80% and 40%; respectively). LH ≥10 were recoded among 51%, while LH/FSH ≥1.5 was recorded among 33% PCOS females. There is a statistical difference between rs2293275 polymorphism in the AG genotype between PCOS patients and controls. PCOS patients have a significantly higher mean LH level compared to controls (8.36 ± 4.86 and 5.67 ± 2.51, respectively) and showed higher LH/FSH value (1.46 ± 0.81) compared to (0.87 ± 0.30) controls. GG and AG genotypes of LHCGR showed statistically significant higher LH (8.22 ± 4.11; 9.02 ± 3.87) and LH/FSH values (1.57 ± 0.56; 1.64 ± 0.89) compared to controls. Conclusion: LHCGR (rs2293275) GA and GG genetic variants could modulate the hormonal levels of PCOS LH levels and the LH/FSH ratio and associated with hirsutism, oligomenorrhea, BMI, and LH/FSH ratio as risk factors.
Congenital Central Hypothyroidism Caused by a Novel IGSF1 Variant Identified in a French Family
Authors: Fourneaux Rachel , Castets Sarah , Godefroy Alice , Grelet Maude , Abeillon-du Payrat Juliette , Saveanu Alexandru , Castinetti Frederic , Reynaud Rachel
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Congenital central hypothyroidism (CCH) is a rare disorder that can be caused by X-linked mutations in the immunoglobulin superfamily member 1 (IGSF1) gene. Here, we describe four familial cases with a variable presentation due to a novel IGSF1 pathogenic variant. Case Presentation: In the index case, an investigation at birth of a suspected brain-lung-thyroid syndrome surprisingly revealed a central hypothyroidism. Next-generation sequencing uncovered a novel IGSF1 pathogenic variant: a hemizygous single base duplication (G) resulting in a premature stop codon (NM_001555.4: c.2485dup, p.Ala829Glyfs*15). Further family investigations revealed missed neonatal CCH for the older brother who presented with prolonged jaundice (thyroid stimulating hormone 3.06 mUI/L, FT4 9.4 pmol/L, FT3 4.2 pmol/L). It also led to the diagnosis of CCH at 11 months of age for the younger brother, whose thyroid function was considered normal at birth. Neuropsychological evaluations showed no cognitive impairment for the eldest two brothers, but a slightly reduced processing-speed index compared with the other parameters for the oldest. Furthermore, a maternal uncle was diagnosed with biochemical CCH at 34 years of age, despite having few symptoms, and a complete workup revealed prolactin deficiency and macroorchidism. Discussion: This report of a rare case of neonatal CCH caused by IGSF1 deficiency highlights the importance of recognizing the neonatal signs of hypothyroidism to diagnose CCH as early as possible. Our results also show the importance of performing family genetic screening if a pathogenic variant is identified, to properly monitor carriers as CCH may develop over time. We suggest that these families should be followed up in the long term to better understand the natural history of this syndrome and evaluate the need for hormone substitution.
Art Communities at Risk: On Ukraine
Authors: Biedarieva Svitlana
Published: March 2022

This text analyses the impact of Russia's war against Ukraine on Ukrainian art and features interviews with five Ukrainian artists: Alevtina Kakhidze, Maria Kulikovska, Lia Dostlieva, Andrii Dostliev, and Piotr Armianovski. The artists speak about their experiences of displacement and migration following the annexation of Crimea and the occupation of parts of Donbas in 2014 as well as their premonitions of the full-scale Russian invasion that was to come.
A new species of Lasianthus (Rubiaceae) from Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve in central highlands of Vietnam
Authors: NGUYEN DINH HIEP , DANG MINH QUAN , LE NGAN THI KIM , QUACH VAN TOAN EM , PHAM VAN NGOT , LE VAN THO , TRUONG BA VUONG , NAIKI AKIYO , DANG VAN-SON
Published: March 2022

Lasianthus kbangensis V.S.Dang, Vuong & Naiki, a new species belonging to Lasianthus sect. Nudiflorae of Rubiaceae from the Central Highlands of Vietnam, is described and illustrated. This new species is similar to L. oblongilobus H. Zhu, but differs in having larger leaves, longer petioles, smaller calyx (calyx lobes) and corolla, and the color of ripen fruits. A table comparing the new species to closely related species is provided.
Some remarkably common, but undescribed, Megaselia Rondani (Diptera: Phoridae) from northwestern Costa Rica
Authors: BROWN BRIAN V.
Published: March 2022

A collection of 16,521 barcoded phorid flies from Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica contains 1,498 recognized BINs (Barcode Index Numbers) in the BOLD database. These BINs were identified to genus, based on photographs, and the collection was found to be composed largely (893/1,498=60%) of specimens of the enormous genus Megaselia Rondani. The nine most common ACG Megaselia, represented by 100 or more specimens each, are briefly described, and diagnosed largely based on DNA barcodes. This study is a prelude and pilot to naming the many less-common species in a similar format.
Gravitational Modulation Effect on Double-Diffusive Oscillatory Convection in a Viscoelastic Fluid Layer
Authors: Kiran Palle
Published: March 2022

The complex Ginzburg-Landau model has been employed to derive the temporal amplitude of convection in a viscoelastic fluid layer under gravity modulation. The finite amplitude is based on a weakly nonlinear thermal convection. The perturbation technique is applied to simplify the nonlinear
system of partial differential equations into a non-autonomous amplitude equation. Heat and mass transfer obtained in terms of the Nusselt and Sherwood numbers, and the corresponding results are presented for the small amplitude of modulation. The moderate values of amplitude and frequencies
of gravity modulation are considered, their effect is to enhance the heat and mass transfer in the layer. Thus, the modulation plays dual role in heat and mass transfer. The variations of Nusselt and Sherwood numbers with slow time becomes rapid on either increasing the parameters Rs, Pr,
λ, δ or decreasing the parameters Γ, ε, Ω. Each parameter effect has been presented graphically with their effect on Nu and Sh. Further, it is found that an oscillatory mode of convection enhances the heat and mass transfer than a stationary mode.
Double-Diffusive Convection in a Hybrid Nanofluid Layer
Authors: Pundir Sudhir Kumar , Awasthi Mukesh Kumar , Kumar Vivek
Published: March 2022

The linear stability of a fluid layer containing nanoparticles has been examined in the presence of a solute gradient. The nanofluid is examined here is a hybrid nanofluid i.e., two different variety of nano-metal-particles are added in the base liquid which is heated and soluted from
below. The linear stability hypothesis is implemented and the normal mode scheme is utilized to examine the stability/instability. The blend of two different types of nanoparticles in basefluid more deminishes the stationary state convection in contrast to the one nanoparticles for top-heavy
dispension and solute gradient helps in early convection in a lower heated nanofluid layer.
“Com-Passion”: Journeying to Joy by “Suffering-with” Your Patients
Authors: Ashour Monica
Published: March 2022

Catholic medical professionals whose sacred mission of journeying with patients “with suffering” will be challenged regarding the truth of soteriology (how we are saved) with their work with patients. Using St. John Paul’s Theology of the Body and “On the Christian Meaning of Human Suffering,” this essay gives a profound understanding of the coredemption in which healthcare professionals can participate.
Generalized Anxiety Mediates the Relationship Between Loneliness and Sleep Quality Amongst Young Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Grey Ian , Arora Teresa , Sanah Amad
Published: March 2022

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, restrictions to minimize its spread have had a profound effect. Government instigated restrictions, such as social isolation, have affected millions worldwide, and the downstream consequences of perceived loneliness upon mental health and sleep are largely unknown. A total of 1662 individuals participated in an online survey. Loneliness, anxiety, and sleep quality were assessed using the UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Generalized Anxiety Disorders scale, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, respectively. Higher levels of perceived loneliness, as well as each one-unit increase in anxiety, were independent predictors of poor sleep quality, where OR = 1.16 (95% CI: 1.03–1.31) and 1.16 (1.11–1.21), respectively, and after adjustment. In our path analysis, we revealed significant direct effects between loneliness and sleep quality (β = 0.25, p < .001), as well as generalized anxiety and sleep quality (β = 0.28, p < .001), and generalized anxiety mediated the relationship between loneliness and sleep quality (β = 0.33, p < .001). Heightened anxiety and perceived loneliness appear to be significant drivers of poor sleep quality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital media platforms that encourage support groups for those experiencing social isolation are encouraged, along with self-help and meditative practices, which may minimize an increase of mental health and sleep disorder diagnoses post COVID-19.
(Re)Turning to the Listener: Karl Barth's Theo-Anthropology and Preaching to Political Others
Authors: Hancock Angela Dienhart
Published: March 2022

This article explores how Karl Barth’s theo-anthropology might serve as a resource for the practice of preaching in politically polarized congregational contexts. The article briefly reviews current research on mass polarization in the United States, particularly in relation to social identity, and considers how this dynamic problematizes preaching on political and social issues in politically diverse Protestant congregations. It then traces the contours of Karl Barth’s theological anthropology, highlighting a few key features. It concludes with a consideration of the implications of Barth’s human being in becoming to bear on the question of preaching to political others, considering what might resist external forces that polarize and support all hearers in their struggle to correspond to who they are in Jesus Christ.
College Student Persistence: A Focus on Relationships With Parents
Authors: Bartle-Haring Suzanne , Bryant Alessandra , Gavazzi Stephen M.
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate persistence to degree in a nationally representative sample of college students. The sample included first-generation and/or underrepresented minority students who had ever been enrolled in a 4-year degree program, and specifically focused on relationships with parents to examine if relationship quality had any impact on persistence to degree using the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY) 1997 dataset. We conducted logistic regression analyses to predict persistence. Predictors included first-generation status, ethnic minority status, sex, family income, family structure, geographic location of home, and relationship with parents. Our most significant finding was that the relationship students had with their parents was more predictive of non-persistence than first-generation status. These results are discussed in terms of their implications for family-based programming for students struggling to persist in college, and the necessity to involve the family in an intentional way throughout the college experience.
Whiteness in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Who is Talking About Racism With Their Kids?
Authors: Leneman Keira B. , Levasseur-Puhach Sydney , Gillespie Sarah , Gomez Irlanda , Nagayama Hall Gordon C. , Roos Leslie E.
Published: March 2022

The present study investigated factors associated with parent awareness and socialization surrounding COVID-19-related racial disparities among White parents of children ages 1.5–8 living in Canada and the United States ( N = 423, 88% mothers). Participants responded to an online survey about parenting during the pandemic between mid to late-April 2020. Participants reported on their level of awareness of COVID-19-related racial disparities as well as how often they discussed these with their children. Although 52% reported some level of awareness, only 34% reported any amount of discussion with their child about it. Regression models were used to further examine stress-related, socioeconomic, parenting, and news-watching associations with awareness and socialization. This study provides unique insight into which White parents are aware of racial inequities exposed by the pandemic and which are choosing to speak to their children about them. Current summary recommendations for White racial socialization and related research are also presented.
Distinction Between Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Hypervascular Liver Metastases in Non-cirrhotic Patients Using Gadoxetate Disodium-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Ichikawa Shintaro , Morisaka Hiroyuki , Omiya Yoshie , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: March 2022

Purpose: This study aims to identify the hallmarks of gadoxetate disodium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging distinguishing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from hypervascular liver metastases (HLMs). Methods: Between January 2008 and October 2020, among patients who underwent gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI, those who met the following criteria were retrospectively included: without chronic hepatitis or liver stiffness ≤ 2.5 kPa on magnetic resonance elastography or F0/F1 on pathological assessment. Two blinded radiologists reviewed the imaging findings to judge the presence or absence of the enhancing capsule, nonperipheral washout, corona enhancement, hypointensity in the transitional/hepatobiliary phase (HBP), hyperintensity on T2-weighted/diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), mosaic architecture, and blood products/fat in mass. The lesion-to-liver signal intensity ratios in HBP and DWI were also calculated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the imaging hallmarks distinguishing HCC from HLM. Interobserver agreement was calculated using kappa values and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results: The final study cohort comprised 72 lesions in 44 patients (mean age, 65.0±11.9 years). Univariate analysis revealed higher frequencies of the following features in HCC than in HLM (P < .10): nonperipheral washout, corona enhancement, transitional phase hypointensity, mosaic architecture, and fat in mass (P = .002-.073). Multivariate analysis revealed that nonperipheral washout and mosaic architecture favored the diagnosis of HCC over that of HLM with odds ratios of 7.66 and 14.6, respectively (P = .038 and .029, respectively). The interobserver agreement for each item was moderate or substantial (kappa or ICC = .447-.792). Conclusion: Peripheral washout and mosaic architecture may be reliable imaging hallmarks for distinguishing HCC from HLM.
Polyaspartic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-Methyl propane sulfonic acid and sodium alginate based biocompatible stimuli responsive polymer gel for controlled release of GHK-Cu peptide for wound healing
Authors: Sharma Shilpa , Anwar Mohammad Faiyaz , Dinda Amit kumar , Singhal Maneesh , Dua Amita , Malik Amita
Published: March 2022

Stimuli responsive polymer based on Polyaspartic acid, 2-Acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid and sodium alginate (NaAlg) were synthesized using two cross-linkers Ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) and TMPTA (Trimethylolpropane triacrylate). The polymers were standardized and optimized to obtain a polymer with maximum swelling in distilled water, saline, glucose and solutions of varying pH. The synthesized polymer swelled well in distilled water, glucose solution and acidic- alkaline medium. The biocompatibility of the polymer was evaluated for blood compatibility and protein adsorption. The polymer with maximum swelling property was used for peptide release studies. The polymer was further used to study the peptide encapsulation and release efficiency of the polymeric material which was confirmed by FTIR, Scanning Emission Microscope and EDX. The encapsulation efficiency of the polymer for encapsulating (glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-copper) GHK-Cu was observed to be 55.26% and peptide release of 51.84% was observed for Ethylene glycol dimethacrylate based polymer after 24 h whereas for Trimethylolpropane triacrylate based polymer the encapsulation efficiency was observed to be 49.6% and release was 39.01%. The EGDMA based polymer was further examined under in vivo studies in order to evaluate the efficiency of the synthesized polymer. The in vivo studies include wound closure, histopathological analysis, biochemical and toxicity assay. The material has shown promising results for both in vivo and in vitro studies.
Injectable in situ intelligent thermo-responsive hydrogel with glycyrrhetinic acid-conjugated nano graphene oxide for chemo-photothermal therapy of malignant hepatocellular tumor
Authors: Wang Huahua , Wang Baiyan , Wang Shasha , Chen Jiaqi , Zhi Weiwei , Guan Yanbin , Cai Bangrong , Zhu Yanhui , Jia Yongyan , Huang Shengnan , Zhu Xiali
Published: March 2022

Malignant tumor is one of the major diseases with high morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study is to prepare berberine hydrochloride (BH) in situ thermo-sensitive hydrogel based on glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) modified nano graphene oxide (NGO) (GA-BH-NGO-gel). NGO was taken as the photosensitizer, GA was taken as the target molecule, and BH was taken as the model drug. The physicochemical properties and anti-tumor activity in vivo and in vitro were also studied. This subject could provide a certain theoretical basis for the chemo-photothermal therapy combined treatment of malignant tumor. The release behavior of GA-BH-NGO-gel in vitro presented sustained and temperature-dependent drug release effect. The anti-tumor activity studies in vivo and in vitro had shown that GA-BH-NGO-gel had stronger anti-tumor activity, which could be targeting distributed to the tumor tissues. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of GA-BH-NGO-gel was enhanced when combined with 808 nm of laser irradiation. In this research, the chemo-photothermal combination therapy was applied into the tumor treatment, which may provide certain research ideas for the clinical treatment of malignant tumor.
Injectable metronidazole-eluting gelatin-alginate hydrogels for local treatment of periodontitis
Authors: Zussman Merav , Zilberman Meital
Published: March 2022

Infection of the periodontal pocket presents two major challenges for drug delivery: administration into the periodontal pocket and a high fluid clearance rate in the pocket. The current study aimed to develop and study a novel hydrogel system for delivery of the antibiotic drug metronidazole directly into the periodontal pocket via injection followed by in situ gelation. The natural polymers gelatin and alginate served as basic materials, and their crosslinking using a carbodiimide resulted in a dual hydrogel network. The study focused on the effects of the hydrogel’s formulation parameters on the drug release profile and the hydrogel’s physical and mechanical properties. A cell viability test was conducted on human fibroblasts. The metronidazole-loaded hydrogels demonstrated a decreasing release rate with time, where most of the drug eluted within 24 h. These hydrogels exhibited fibroblast viability of at least 75% after 24 and 48 h, indicating that they are highly biocompatible. Although the alginate concentration used in this study was relatively low, it had a strong effect on the physical as well as the mechanical properties of the hydrogel. An increase in the alginate concentration increased the crosslinking rate and enabled enhanced entanglement of the 3D structure, resulting in a decrease in the gelation time (less than 10 s) and swelling degree, which are both desired for the studied periodontal application. Increasing the gelatin concentration without changing the crosslinker concentration resulted in significant changes in the physical properties and slight changes in the mechanical properties. Metronidazole incorporation slightly decreased the hydrophilicity of the hydrogel and therefore also its viscosity, and affected the sealing ability and the tensile and compression moduli. The developed hydrogels exhibited controllable mechanical and physical properties, can target a wide range of conditions, and are therefore of high significance in the field of periodontal treatment.
A Randomized Controlled Study Addressing Dexamethasone Tolerability in the Treatment of Acute Asthma in Children: Mary Poppins on Trial!
Authors: Sonnenberg Lyn Kathryn , Sinclair Douglas
Published: March 2022

Aim

Emesis of oral medications continues to be a problem in the management of acute pediatric asthma exacerbations; therefore, we set out to assess whether smaller volumes of oral dexamethasone resulted in better tolerability. Methods: Children aged 2–14 years, presenting to the emergency department with acute asthma exacerbation, were enrolled in this open, prospective randomized controlled trial. Participants received 0.3 mg/kg of dexamethasone in either its concentrated volume (10 mg/mL) or mixed with Ora Sweet (1 mg/mL). Tolerability was measured by vomiting within 45 minutes of receiving dexamethasone, with stratification, a priori, for prior vomiting. Results: 430 participants were enrolled. 23/213 (11%) in the 10 mg/mL group vomited dexamethasone compared to 16/217 (7%) in the 1 mg/mL group (P = .29). 11/179 (6%) in the 10 mg/mL group vomited compared to 8/183 (3%) in the 1 mg/mL group (.61). For those 68 stratified with prior vomiting, 12/34 (35%) in the 10 mg/mL group vomited compared to 8/34 (24%) in the 1 mg/mL group (P = .43). None of these results were statistically different. Prior vomiting increased the risk of vomiting, regardless of the formulation given (P < .001). Conclusions: Volume does not play a significant role in the tolerability of dexamethasone. Therefore, palatability should not be sacrificed for a smaller volume of dexamethasone to improve tolerability.
6-Mercaptopurine and Macrophage Activation Syndrome Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Davenport Lilia , Chin-Hon Jamie , Chung Juri , Cindy Chen Xian Jie , Schneider Jeffrey
Published: March 2022

Macrophage activation syndrome is a life-threatening syndrome of uncontrolled immune activation with variable clinical presentation making early diagnosis difficult. It is often manifested by the development of multi-organ failure due to systemic inflammatory response. Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) on purine antimetabolites are at high risk for severe myelosuppression due to the mechanism of thiopurine toxicity which potentially contributes to the development of macrophage activation syndrome. We present a case of a 39-year-old woman with a 2-year history of UC previously treated with 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) and recent COVID-19 infection, who was admitted to our emergency department for C. difficile infection and subsequently developed macrophage activation syndrome. This case report also raises the question of whether abrupt discontinuation of 6-MP may have contributed to the worsening of the patient’s symptoms of underlying hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and her rapid deterioration. Both macrophage activation syndrome and COVID-19 infection can produce a large number of pro-inflammatory cytokines termed “cytokine storm,” but a pro-inflammatory cytokine panel breakdown helps to differentiate between the two. Our case report emphasizes the importance of close monitoring of patients on purine antimetabolite therapy who present with signs and symptoms of systemic toxicity.
Plasticizing effect on polyethylene oxide doped ammonium perchlorate
Authors: Pratap Rana , K Singh Pramod , Sharma Tejas , Singh Vijay , Alheety Mustafa A , Kumar Sushant , Madkhli Aysh Y , Noor IM , Zakariya’u Ibrahim , Singh Abhimanyu
Published: March 2022

Plasticized polymer complex films of polyethylene oxide with ammonium perchlorate (NH4ClO4) are synthesized by using solution cast technique. Propylene carbonate (PC) used as dopant to enhance conductivity of polymer electrolyte. The prepared films are characterized in detail using X-ray diffraction, infrared spectral analysis, transient ionic current, and electrochemical impedance studies. Plasticized polymer electrolyte shows high ionic conductivity (∼10−4 S/cm) which appear as novel electrolyte for electrochemical devices.