bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marine biodiversity conservation: the cultural aspect of MPA in Ghana
Authors: Karakara Alhassan Abdul-Wakeel , Peprah James , Dasmani Isaac
Published: December 2022

Studying fishers and fishing communities’ social-cultural structures are vital in policy-making concerning local ecosystem or marine sustainability. Previous studies on marine communities seldom neglected the role of culture in marine biodiversity conservation, especially an MPA establishment. In this study we; first explore the cultural practices in coastal communities in Ghana that are the potential for the conservation of the marine ecosystem (MPA); second, we examined the readiness of marine communities if the government takes the decision to carve out formerly fishing sites as an MPA site. Primary data was collected by using Key Informant Interviews (KII) with 20 chief fishermen and self-administered questionnaires to 491 fishermen across nine semi-urban, two urban, and 16 villages along the coast of Ghana. Adopting mixed method analysis, the study, among other things, underscored that the socioeconomic characteristics of fishermen are diverse and mixed. Most of the fishermen do not know what an MPA is but are willing to accept such initiative by the government and certain cultural practices are found to be conducive to an MPA initiative. Policy implications are discussed in the paper.
JEL Codes: Q22, Q57, P48.
The effect of the combined system of Hydrodynamic Cavitation, Ozone, and Hydrogen Peroxide on the removal of Chlorophyll a and Organic substances in the raw water
Authors: Shokoohi Reza , Rahmani Alireza , Asgari Ghorban , Ashrafi Maysam , Ghahramani Esmaeil
Published: December 2022

increased nutrient levels and algal blooms can also cause drinking water problems in communities near dead zones and upstream. humans, fish, marine mammals, birds, and other animals are all adversely affected by the toxins produced by toxic algal blooms. The purpose of this study is The effect of The combined system of Hydrodynamic Cavitation, Ozone (O3), and Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) on the removal of Chlorophyll a and Organic substances in the raw water entering the Sanandaj treatment plant. In this study, we examined the following variables: pH, Retention Time, Pressure, Distance, Ozone dose, and Hydrogen Peroxide dose. Utilizing Taguchi design methodology, experiments were planned and optimized. Chlorophyll a and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) can be removed most effectively under the following conditions: 5 bar of cavitation pressure, 90 min of retention time, a pH of 5, 1 m3/h of Flow, a distance of 25 cm from the orifice, 3 gr/h of ozone, and 2 gr/l of Hydrogen Peroxide. The most efficient factor in the degradation of TOC and Chlorophyll a was determined to be cavitation pressure based on the percentage contributions of each factor (38.64 percent and 35.05 percent, respectively). H2O2 was found to have the most negligible impact on degradation efficiency (4.24 percent and 4.11 percent, respectively).
Risk Factor Analysis for Radiographic Para-aortic Lymph Nodes Metastasis in Left-sided Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Chen Qiang , Yang Jiabin , Peng Wei , Cheng Ming , Wu Yongyou
Published: December 2022

Purpose Synchronous para-aortic lymph node (PALN) metastasis from colorectal cancer (CRC) is rare, and the positive predictive value of pre-operative CT was low. This study aimed to clarify risk factors radiographic PALN metastasis in left‐sided CRC for improving the accuracy of pre-operative CT scan.
Methods Patients with pathologically and radiographically confirmed diagnosis of left-sided CRC were enrolled between January 2019 and August 2021. The Correlations between clinicopathologic data and radiographic PALN metastasis were analyzed chi-squared test or Fisher exact test and the multivariate binary logistic regression model was used for multivariate analyses.
Results There were 15(3.56%) patients with radiographic PALN metastasis. The hepatic (P=0.023) and inferior mesenteric lymph nodes (IMLN) (P<0.001) metastases, elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) (P=0.007) and carbohydrate antigen19-9 (CA19-9) (P=0.021) levels, longer tumor length (P=0.003), lower degree of tumor differentiation (P<0.001), deeper tumor invasion (P=0.038), later lymph node staging (P<0.001), perineural invasion (P=0.009) and lymphovascular involvement (P<0.001) were the risk factors for radiographic PALN metastasis. Among them, the radiographic IMLN metastasis (P=0.003, OR=20.927, 95% CI 2.823-155.820) was the only independent risk factor.
Conclusion Some clinicopathologic characteristics, especially IMLN metastasis, are the risk factors for PALN metastasis.
Nomogram for prognosis of elderly patients with cervical cancer who receive combined radiotherapy
Authors: Chen Wenjuan , Xia Xiaoyi , Xie Xingyun , Wei Yuting , Wu Rongrong , Cai Wenjie , Hong Jingsheng
Published: December 2022

Objective: This retrospective study identified prognostic factors to help guide the clinical treatment of elderly patients (≥65 y) with cervical cancer who had undergone radiotherapy. A personalized model to predict 3- and 5-year survival was developed.
Methods: A review was conducted of 367 elderly women with cervical cancer (staged II-III) who had undergone radiotherapy in our hospital between January 2012 and December 2016. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used for survival analysis that considered age, hemoglobin, squamous cell carcinoma antigen, pathologic type, stage, pelvic lymph node metastasis status, and others. A nomogram was constructed to predict the survival rates.
Results: The median follow-up time was 71 months (4-118 mo). The 3- (5-) year overall, progression-free, local recurrence-free, and distant metastasis-free survival rates were, respectively, 91.0% (84.4%), 92.3% (85.9%), 99.18% (99.01%), and 99.18% (97.82%). The following were significant independent prognostic factors for overall survival: tumor size, pre-treatment hemoglobin, chemotherapy, and pelvic lymph node metastasis. The C-index of the line chart was 0.699 (95% CI: 0.652-0.746). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for 3- and 5-year survival were 0.751 and 0.724. The nomogram was in good concordance with the actual survival rates.
Conclusions: The independent prognostic factors for overall survival in elderly patients with cervical cancer after radiotherapy were: tumor size, pre-treatment hemoglobin, chemotherapy, and pelvic lymph node metastasis. The novel prognostic nomogram based on these factors can be an asset for personalized clinical management.
Accumulation of heavy metals in water, sediment and different fishes of river Ganga in Varanasi and its health risk assessment
Authors: Mishra Bhargawi , Gautam Geeta J. , Chaturvedi Rajnish Kumar , Ansari Nasreen Ghazi , Mishra Vijaya Nath
Published: December 2022

Quality of the river water and sediments are deteriorating day by day in Indian rivers due to excessive anthropogenic activities and pollutants entering through various sources. Heavy metal loads in the rivers are one such factor that are adding to human health risks as well. In our study we estimated the concentration of the heavy metals (Pb, Mn, Cr and Cd) in river bed and in water at different points of river Ganga as well as at confluence point of Ganga and Varuna rivers. We found that Ganga river in Varanasi is highly loaded with metals (PLI= 6.698) Mean concentration in water follows: Pb 1.29 mg/L, Mn 1.325 mg/L, Cr 0.169 mg/L and Cd 0.161mg/L, which was above than the permissible limits stated by Environment protection agency EPA in drinking water. Randomly seven indigenous species of fishes were collected from the wild and were processed for checking the occurrence of these metals in the tissues such as Gills, Liver and Muscle. In all the seven selected fish species, degree of heavy metal concentration followed liver > gills > muscles. Highest accumulation of Pb was observed in Cyprinus carpio liver (8.86 μg/g) and lowest in Baikari muscles (0.07 μg/g). Total THQ value i.e. hazard index (HI) of metals was calculated for these fish species that are frequently consumed and the data showed HI values in following sequence: C.carpio > O. nilotus > C.punctatus > J.coitor > M.armatus > M.tengara > Baikari. Average HI value for C. carpioand O. nilotus was found above 1 which indicates that intake of heavy metals through these species may cause health hazard for human. Maximum HI was recorded in Carpio, which is highly consumed fish by human, hence may be harmful to them. These findings pose a threat to human population and hence needs regular monitoring of metals in fishes to prevent entry into food chain and its effect on the human beings.
Impacts of nickel mining on the DNA and hematological parameters of two species of bat in central Brazil
Authors: Sotero Daiany , Benvindo-Souza Marcelino , Lopes Alice Carvalho , de Freitas Renata Pereira , Silva Daniela Melo e
Published: December 2022

Exposure to heavy metals in mining zones is a significant threat, which can affect ecosystem services and contribute to the decline of wild bat populations. The present study investigated the impacts caused by mining on two bat species in central Brazil, the nectarivorousGlossophaga soricinaand the frugivorousCarollia perspicillata. The bats were collected from a nickel miningzone (treatment) and protected area (control). The leukocyte profile of each species was compiled and genotoxicity (comet assay) and mutagenicity (micronucleus test) were determined using the appropriate procedures.Glossophaga soricinapresented significantly higher frequencies of neutrophils and lymphocytes in the mining zone in comparison with the protected area, whereasC. perspicillatapresented higher frequencies of lymphocytes in the mining zone, but significantly lower frequencies of monocytes. Concomitantly,G. soricinaalso presented a higher frequency of DNA damage, although no variation was found in this parameter inC. perspicillatawhen comparing environments. We also found no significant between populations in terms of the frequency of micronuclei and other nuclear abnormalities. Overall, the results of the study indicate that bats are susceptible to immunological disorders and DNA damage in mining zones, with the nectarivorousG. soricinaappearing to be relatively more susceptible, and thus a potentially effective bioindicator of the impact of contamination in these environments.
A methodology for creating a database to contribute to building urban resilience, the case of emergency management and response in the city of Algiers
Authors: KHOUAS Makhlouf Adel , telaidjia djamel , DJABRI Ahmed Djaber , HABIBI Yahiaoui , KERMANI Saci
Published: December 2022

In the context of territorial planning, cities with the capacity to limit the impact of stress and adapt to the event to return to normal functioning as quickly as possible are called resilient cities. Emergency management using new technologies is a very important task in building the urban resilience of a community. Among the necessary information requested by the rescue center (firefighters, police...) is your address; in order to navigate to an address, you must locate it and search for the best route. To facilitate this task, a set of solutions has been proposed by the development of an integrative technology called WEB GIS. With the advent of the Internet, web mapping, or the distribution of maps via the web, is an expanding field thanks to the development of genetic solutions. The integration of WEB GIS into governance seems necessary. Its integration into local governance will promote social progress. In this work, our main objective was to develop a path towards the design of a dynamic WEB GIS system for local address administrations and to serve the citizen. The WEB GIS that we have developed also allows in the management of addresses, to carry out a set of geographical queries on the study area and thematic analyses for decision support, it also allows to share this information. We believe that collaboration and the flow of information between the different actors will undoubtedly lead to a more appropriate configuration of the real-time address search operations. Our solution will help create a new mode of emergency management in Algiers. With this application, a lot of time is shortened because locating the Victim and sending them paramedics, or response teams used to take a few minutes, but using our proposed technology, it is done in seconds and in a timely manner, allowing for a quick and efficient response rescue the Victim, avoiding many complications that could lead to death.
Most reliable indicator for predicting postoperative pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatectomy: A retrospective study
Authors: Fukada Masahiro , Murase Katsutoshi , Higashi Toshiya , Yasufuku Itaru , Sato Yuta , Tajima Jesse Yu , Kiyama Shigeru , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Okumura Naoki , Takahashi Takao , Matsuhashi Nobuhisa
Published: December 2022

Background: Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is a major complication of pancreatic surgery. Drain fluid amylase concentration (DAC) is considered a predictive indicator of POPF. However, other indicators related to postoperative drain fluid amylase status exist, and the most reliable indicator for predicting POPF remains unclear. Thus, this study compared the accuracy of these indicators in predicting POPF development after distal pancreatectomy (DP).
Methods: This single-institution retrospective study included 122 patients who underwent DP. The study was conducted between 2010 and 2022 at Gifu University Hospital. We statistically analyzed DAC, drain fluid amylase amount (DAA) calculated by multiplying DAC and daily drainage volume, and drain and serum amylase concentration ratio (DSACR) to assess the correlation with POPF.
Results: Based on the definition and grading of the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula, 24.6 (%) of the 122 patients had Grades B and C POPF. The cutoff value of DAC on postoperative day [POD] 1 was 7,238 (U/L) (area under the curve [AUC] 0.65, sensitivity 56.7%, specificity 80.2%, and accuracy 74.4%). The cutoff value of DAC on POD3 was 737 (U/L) (AUC 0.73, sensitivity 73.3%, specificity 65.9%, and accuracy 67.8%). The cutoff value of DAA on POD1 was 103 (U/day) (AUC 0.64, sensitivity 80.0%, specificity 46.2%, and accuracy 54.5%). The cutoff value of DAA on POD3 was 31 (U/day) (AUC 0.72, sensitivity 70.0%, specificity 73.6%, and accuracy 72.7%). The cutoff value of DSACR on POD1 was 17 (AUC 0.69, sensitivity 80.0%, specificity 58.2%, and accuracy 63.6%). The cutoff value of DSACR on POD3 was 22 (AUC 0.77, sensitivity 77.7%, specificity 73.3%, and accuracy 73.6%). Overall, DSACR on POD3 had the highest AUC value. Furthermore, a multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that pancreatic texture (soft; odds ratio [OR] 5.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.57–19.95; p = 0.006) and DSACR on POD3 (>22; OR 15.57; 95% CI 2.41–307.76; p = 0.003) were independently associated with POPF after DP.
Conclusions: DSACR on POD3 is the most reliable indicator of drain fluid amylase status for predicting POPF after DP.
A Hybrid Deep Learning Algorithm Based Prediction Model for Sustainable Healthcare System
Authors: K Tharageswari , N Mohana Sundaram , R Santhosh
Published: December 2022

In the present era, maintaining a healthy and disease-free life is complex due to multiple personal and environmental impacts. Early identification and diagnosis will help human beings lead a sustainable life. However, to achieve this, health care data has to be processed in an efficient manner with more accuracy. Thus, the impacts of diseases or future impacts can be predicted or detected and proper medication can be provided by the physicians. Efficient feature extraction techniques must be employed with minimum computation cost so that the extracted features can be classified in a better way. However, the performance can be improved if deep learning models replace machine learning models. In this research work, a hybrid deep learning approach is proposed using convolutional neural networks (CNN) and the random forest algorithm. The final classifier block in the CNN architecture is replaced with a random forest classifier to enhance the prediction accuracy and overall performance. Standard benchmark healthcare datasets are employed in the proposed model simulation analysis and the performances are compared to existing techniques such as MNN (Multi Neural Network), CNN-Multilayer Perceptron (CNN-MLP), CNN-Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-LSTM), and Support Vector Machines (SVM), KNN to validate the superior performance.
Biochemical and microbiological characterization of a thermotolerant bacterial consortium involved in the corrosion of Aluminum Alloy 7075
Authors: Atalah Joaquin , Blamey Lotsé , Amenabar Maximiliano J. , Kelley-Loughnane Nancy , Blamey Jenny M.
Published: December 2022

Microorganisms can play a significant role in material corrosion, with bacterial biofilms as major participants in microbially influenced corrosion (MIC). The exact mechanisms by which this takes place are poorly understood, resulting in a scarcity of information regarding MIC detection and prevention. In this work, a consortium of moderately thermophilic bacteria isolated from a biofilm growing over aluminum alloy 7075 was characterized. Its effect over the alloy was evaluated on a 40-day period using Electron Microscopy, demonstrating acceleration of corrosion in comparison to the abiotic control. The bacterial consortium was biochemically and microbiologically characterized as an as an attempt to elucidate factors contributing to corrosion. Molecular analysis revealed that the consortium consisted mainly of members of the Bacillusgenus, with lower abundance of other genera such as Thermoanaerobacterium, Anoxybacillus and Paenibacillus. The EPS polysaccharide presented mainly mannose, galactose, rhamnose and ribose. Our observations suggest that the acidification of the culture media resulting from bacterial metabolism acted as the main contributor to corrosion, hinting at an unspecific mechanism. The consortium was not sulfate-reducing, but it was found to produce hydrogen, which could also be a compounding factor for corrosion.
Devices for heating the electronic component base of radio-electronic equipment in conditions of negative temperatures
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Khramtsov M. V. , Zabolotsky A. M. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR)
Published: December 2022

It is known that the modern electronic component base (ECB), used in radio electronic equipment (REE) for various purposes, is operable only in a certain temperature range. At the same time, during the development of REE, the requirements are often made for guaranteed operation in more severe climatic conditions, including when exposed to negative temperatures. In this regard, it is necessary to ensure the given thermal regimes of REE. To do this, various heating devices are used, each of them makes it possible to ensure the operation of the electronic equipment under conditions of exposure to negative temperatures, by heating the ECB to the operating temperature. The paper provides a review, a comparative analysis, and gives recommendations on the use of modern ECB heating devices for REE under conditions of exposure to negative temperatures. This material can be used in the design of REE and help to ensure its thermal conditions.
PARATESTICULARRHABDOMYOSARCOMA:A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
Authors:   Departement De Radiotherapie, Institut National Doncologie, Maroc., Nouni K. , Fares H. ,   Departement De Radiotherapie, Institut National Doncologie, Maroc., Elmajjaoui S. ,   Departement De Radiotherapie, Institut National Doncologie, Maroc., Kebdani T. ,   Departement De Radiotherapie, Institut National Doncologie, Maroc., Elkacemi H. ,   Departement De Radiotherapie, Institut National Doncologie, Maroc., Hassouni K. ,   Departement De Radiotherapie, Institut National Doncologie, Maroc.
Published: December 2022

Paratesticular Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a rare tumor. Treatment must be multimodal and based on surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. We report an observation of a paratesticular RMS in a child and willdiscuss the diagnostic and therapeuticmodalities in the highlight of a review of the literature.
Testing the influence of factors on the timeliness of financial reporting – Empirical evidence of Vietnamese listed enterprises
Authors: Quoc Thinh Tran , Anh Tuan Dang , Chi Danh Luu
Published: December 2022

Financial reporting of enterprises has important implications for information users. The timely provision of financial reporting by enterprises helps investors to make appropriate business decisions. The purpose of the paper is to test the influence of the factors on the timeliness of financial reporting of the Vietnamese listed enterprises. The timeliness of financial statements is determined by the total number of days of difference between the date of signing the audit report and the end of the financial year. The sample includes the top 100 best-listed enterprises of the Vietnamese stock market. The paper uses time series with panel data. The data are collected from annual and financial reports for the period from 2016 to 2020. The paper performs quantitative research to test the hypotheses. The results verify two factors, such as return on equity and audit type, have a negative effect on the timeliness of financial reporting. Audit type has the most influence on timeliness. Research also shows some listed enterprises have not yet complied with regulations on timely information disclosure. The paper proposes some appropriate policies for Vietnamese listed enterprises to ensure the timeliness of information.
Patterns and meanings of the use of classical narratives in webtoons: Focusing on Webtoon  and
Authors:   Dong Nam Eo-Mun-Hak-Hoi, Ryu Myeong-Ok
Published: December 2022

This study aims to confirm the close relationship with classical narratives by focusing on webtoons using classical narratives and suggest the direction of use of classical narratives in the future. Many webtoons are being created based on classical narratives. In particular, we looked at how the public today understands classical narratives through webtoons, focusing on the webtoons  and  which are very popular with the public.
The webtoon  was created based on  and was widely known to the public, but Princess Pari's appearance as a filial daughter has been the subject of criticism. However, the webtoon  explains the problems of criticism and controversy by closely examining Princess Pari's life, and the significance of the webtoon can be found in that it allows her to understand in various aspects.
In the webtoon , it was created based on , which is well known as a filial daughter named Simcheong. In the webtoon, Simcheong is finding a point of contact between classic and modern times, breaking away from the perception of being a filial daughter and raising issues such as criticism of women and ideology, while letting Simcheong know what her identity is.
There has been a perception that webtoons do not fully reflect classical narratives, but now they play an important role in making them understood from various perspectives. And it can be meaningful in that it constantly confirms that classical narratives can still have valid values for us living in modern times.
The effects of humic acid and chelate applications on some morphophysiological properties and antioxidant enzyme activities of ornamental cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) under boron stress
Authors: EMAN GÖKSEVEN Şenel Birceyudum , KIRAN Sevinç , ELLİALTIOĞLU Ş. Şebnem
Published: December 2022

The increase of industrialization, the overuse chemical fertilisers and mining activities are brought about heavy metal-led environment pollution, especially agricultural land. This leads to more boron (B) contamination and accumulation in the soil. This study was carried out to evaluate B uptake from the soil of ornamental cabbage grown as a hyperaccumulator plant under B stress conditions in a controlled greenhouse on plant morphology, physiology, antioxidant enzyme activity the effects of humic acid (50mg kg-1 B + 2% humic acid -HA) and chelate [0.5 g kg-1 chelate (EDTA)] applications. According to the results, especially chelate application significantly increased the B uptake of the plant, and B accumulation was higher in the plant shoot than in the root. However, HA and chelate applications brought out the negative effects of B stress on growth and physiological characteristics and reinforced the increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities. In conclusion, this study shows that HA and chelate additions increase the efficiency of the use of ornamental cabbage to remove excess boron from the soil. According to these results, it is possible to increase the use of ornamental cabbage for phytoremediation purposes, especially with chelate application.
Factors and practices: farmers' adaptation to climate change in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Shabbir , Fatema Nuzhat
Published: December 2022

Climate literature is highly pronounced about the impending threat to agriculture taking into account the climate change scenario and suggesting adaptation as a possible option to opt for. Considering this, the study seeks to comprehend the factors influencing farmers’ adaptation strategies to cope with climate change in coastal Bangladesh (Koyra Upazila, Khulna). In order to achieve the objectives descriptive, multivariate, and binary logistic regressions were used to analyze the data. Findings demonstrate that the most often used adaptation strategies were crop, water, and infrastructure management. Regression result shows that factors such as gender, labor in the family, farming experience, and the damaged sector are important factors in determining how well adaption methods are implemented. Binary logistic regression analysis explains that age (p = ≤0.041), income (p = ≤0.037), and farm size (p = ≤0.005) are significant factors in deciding on a new adaption option. The outcomes of this research can be used to reevaluate current frameworks and strategies for coping with climate change and to identify the factors that influence policy formulation. In order to improve the water management system for agriculture, policies such as Cash-for-Work (CFW) and Employment Generation Programme for the Poorest (EGPP) may be used to boost local agriculture.
A new method for modelling precipitation variability in relation to climate change
Authors: Qamar Sadia , Ali Zulfiqar , Sammen Saad Shauket
Published: December 2022

Climate change is one of the main consequences of anthropogenic activities. Since the 1950s, gradual changes and an increase in climate warming have been observed. Previous research has been indicating potential associations between climate warming and spatiotemporal changes in precipitation. Moreover, the regional patterns of precipitation have a key role in the continuous monitoring of climate characteristics and natural hazards such as floods and droughts. Therefore, precise and accurate measurements of precipitation concentration and spatiotemporal variability in their patterns are very crucial. In this study, a new method for measuring precipitation concentration is developed and applied to 54 meteorological stations in Pakistan. Furthermore, to assess the precipitation patterns, the proposed method provides solid evidence for considering the effect of temperatures under climate warming. Furthermore, using the spatial correlation between the proposed method and its competitor, a comparative analysis is made to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. Moreover, the spatial variability structure in various precipitation patterns is assessed and compared using spatial predictive maps. Outcomes associated with this research show significant deviations between the proposed method and the existing one. In this paper, regression analysis revealed that the additional input can potentially improve the precipitation estimates under the appropriate sampling estimator. This is the first study that has documented the impact of climate warming on measuring precipitation concentration. These findings can contribute to a better understanding of precipitation concentration in relation to climate warming.
Application of the PSO–neural network in rainfall–runoff modeling
Authors: Kumar Keshav , Singh Vivekanand , Roshni Thendiyath
Published: December 2022

In this study, rainfall–runoff (R–R) models were developed by assembling Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) with the Feed Forward Neural Network (FFNN) and the Wavelet Neural Network (WNN). Performances of the model were compared with the wavelet ensembled neural network (WNN) and the conventional FFNN. The data from 1981 to 2005 were used for calibration and from 2006 to 2014 for validation of the models. Different combinations of rainfall and runoff were considered as inputs to the PSO–FFNN model. The fitness value and computational time of all the combinations were computed. Input combination was selected based on the lowest fitness value and lowest computational time. Four R–R models (FFNN, WNN, PSO–FFNN and PSO–WNN) were developed with the best input combination. The performance of the models was evaluated using statistical parameters (Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), D and root mean square error (RMSE)) and parameters vary in the range of (0.86–0.90), (0.95–0.97) and (68.87–84.37), respectively. After comparing the performance parameters and computational time of all four models, it was found that the PSO–FFNN model gave better values of NSE (0.89), D (0.97), RMSE (68.87) and less computational time (125.42 s) than other models. Thus, the PSO–FFNN model was better than the other three models (FFNN, WNN and PSO–WNN).
Preparation of IgE Antibody and Distribution of IgE+ Secretory Cells in
the Palatine Tonsil of Bactrian Camel
Authors: Wang Wen-Hui , Liu Li-Ping , Li Min , Zhang Wang-Dong
Published: December 2022

Background:

Allergic diseases induced by dust have seriously threatened human health,
while Bactrian camels can live in a sandy environment for a long time.

Objective:

To prepare rabbit anti-Bactrian camel IgE antibody and explore the distribution
characteristics of IgE+ secretory cells in the palatine tonsils, which lays a theoretical foundation for the
distribution of local antibodies in the palatal tonsils of Bactrian camel and the study of immune
function.

Methods:

In this study, the amino acid sequences of Bactrian camel IgE, IgA, IgM and IgG heavy
chain constant regions were compared, and a specific IgE gene fragment were selected (447 bp). The
recombinant plasmid pET-28a-IgE was induced in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) by IPTG and its
expression conditions were optimized. The antibody was prepared by immunizing rabbits with purified
IgE recombinant protein, its titer and specificity were detected by indirect ELISA and Western
blotting. Immunohistochemical and statistical methods investigated the distribution of IgE+ secretory
cells in the palatine tonsils.

Results:

The IgE recombinant protein was expressed in the form of inclusion bodies with a size of 16
kDa. The optimal IPTG induction concentration was 0.7 mmol/L and the induction time was 8 h. The
titer of the antibody was 1:16000 by ELISA, and the antibody could specifically bind to the
recombinant protein by Western blotting. IgE+ secretory cells were mainly distributed in the
subepithelial compartments of reticulated crypt epithelium of the palatine tonsil of the Bactrian camel,
followed by the subepithelial compartments of stratified squamous epithelium and occasionally in the
extrafollicular region.

Conclusion:

The rabbit anti-Bactrian camel IgE polyclonal antibody was successfully prepared. It is
confirmed that IgE exists in the palatine tonsils of Bactrian camels under normal living conditions. In
addition, IgE+ secretory cells are mainly distributed in the subepithelial compartments of reticulated
crypt epithelium of the palatine tonsil, which is consistent with the distribution characteristics of IgG+
and sIgA+ secretory cells in the palatal tonsils of the Bactrian camel.
NorA, Tet(K), MepA, and MsrA Efflux Pumps in Staphylococcus aureus, their Inhibitors
and 1,8-Naphthyridine Sulfonamides
Authors: Melo Coutinho Henrique Douglas , de Morais Oliveira-Tintino Cícera Datiane , Muniz Débora Feitosa , dos Santos Barbosa Cristina Rodrigues , Silva Pereira Raimundo Luiz , Begnini Iêda Maria , Rebelo Ricardo Andrade , da Silva Luiz Everson , Mireski Sandro Lucio , Nasato Michele Caroline , Lacowicz Krautler Maria Isabel , Barros Oliveira Carlos Vinicius , Pereira Pedro Silvino , Rodrigues Teixeira Alexandre Magno , Tintino Saulo Relison , de Menezes Irwin Rose Alencar , da Silva Teresinha Gonçalves
Published: December 2022

Antibiotic resistance can be characterized, in biochemical terms, as an antibiotic’s inability to reach
its bacterial target at a concentration that was previously effective. Microbial resistance to different agents can
be intrinsic or acquired. Intrinsic resistance occurs due to inherent functional or structural characteristics of the
bacteria, such as antibiotic-inactivating enzymes, nonspecific efflux pumps, and permeability barriers. On the
other hand, bacteria can acquire resistance mechanisms via horizontal gene transfer in mobile genetic elements
such as plasmids. Acquired resistance mechanisms include another category of efflux pumps with more specific
substrates, which are plasmid-encoded. Efflux pumps are considered one of the main mechanisms of bacterial
resistance to antibiotics and biocides, presenting themselves as integral membrane transporters. They are essential
in both bacterial physiology and defense and are responsible for exporting structurally diverse substrates,
falling into the following main families: ATP-binding cassette (ABC), multidrug and toxic compound extrusion
(MATE), major facilitator superfamily (MFS), small multidrug resistance (SMR) and resistance-nodulation-cell
division (RND). The Efflux pumps NorA and Tet(K) of the MFS family, MepA of the MATE family, and
MsrA of the ABC family are some examples of specific efflux pumps that act in the extrusion of antibiotics. In
this review, we address bacterial efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs), including 1,8-naphthyridine sulfonamide derivatives,
given the pre-existing knowledge about the chemical characteristics that favor their biological activity.
The modification and emergence of resistance to new EPIs justify further research on this theme, aiming to develop
efficient compounds for clinical use.
Renal Stem Cells, Renal Resistive Index, and Neutrophil Gelatinase Associated
Lipocalin Changes After Revascularization in Patients With Renovascular Hypertension
and Ischemic Nephropathy
Authors: Simeoni Mariadelina , Cianci Rosario , Gigante Antonietta , Marco Perrotta Adolfo , Ronchey Sonia , Mangialardi Nicola , Schioppa Annalisa , De Marco Oriana , Cianci Eleonora , Barbati Cristiana , Lai Silvia , Ferri Claudio
Published: December 2022

Background:

Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) with or without stenting is the
gold standard therapy in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (aRAS). However, therapeutic success
depends on the correct timing of revascularization and the reversibility of the renal damage.

Materials and Methods:

We report a case series of patients treated with PTRA for renovascular hypertension
and ischemic nephropathy. We measured bilateral renal resistive index (RRI), circulating renal stem cells
(RSC), and Neutrophil Gelatinase Associated Lipocalin (NGAL) at baseline and after PTRA at different time
points to understand their changes in post-revascularization.

Results:

At baseline, the studied patients (n = 5) had different RSC levels. After PTRAs, all patients showed an
improvement in blood pressure, while renal function varied differently within the studied subjects. RRI > 0.75
at baseline and the absence of NGAL decrease after PTRAs were associated with post-PTRA renal function
worsening, despite an increase of RSC in all patients.

Conclusions:

Although limited to a few patients, our observation allowed the exploration of the behaviour of the
studied parameters in different degrees of renal ischemia. This revealed different disease models suggesting the
importance of further investigations in larger and homogeneous cohorts to confirm that a greater basal RSC percentage,
low RRI values before PTRA, and a post-revascularization NGAL reduction could be related to better
renal outcomes in aRAS patients.
Liposome Based Drug Delivery for the Management of Psoriasis -
A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bahadur Shiv , Sharma Manisha
Published: December 2022

Psoriasis has been considered as a chronic inflammatory skin disease which leads to the
dysfunction of immune systems. According to the World Psoriasis Day consortium, psoriasis affects
around 125 million individuals globally or about 2% to 3% of the overall population. Most of the
conventional drug delivery systems primarily attempt to relieve symptoms of psoriasis and are ineffective
in providing targeted action and higher bioavailability because of the drug's short half-life
and instability, as well as they lack safety and efficacy. The shortcomings of conventional drug
delivery systems give rise to the development of novel drug delivery systems which includes
liposomes, transferosomes, ethosomes, niosomes, emulsomes, dendrimers, hydrogel, nanoparticles,
etc. These novel formulations may enhance the therapeutic effects by changing physiological and
pharmacokinetic parameters. Several research reports suggest that these novel drug delivery systems
may enhance therapeutic effects which can be used as a promising approach for the treatment of
psoriasis. The liposomes based drug delivery system have been considered as most promising vehicles
for enhancing therapeutic potentials of drugs into or through the skin upon topical application.
Liposomes have small unilamellar vesicles which may enhance the penetration ability through stratum
corneum layer of skin. Therefore, present review article highlights on the different aspects of
the liposomes as potential drug delivery system for the treatment of psoriasis.
The Characteristics of Green-synthesized Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles
(MgONPs) and their Biomedical Applications
Authors: Chandrasekaran Rajkuberan , Kuca Kamil , Patil Sunita , Krishnan Muthukumar
Published: December 2022

In the current epoch, noble metals/metal oxides with precise structures are needed to develop sustainable products to improve the welfare of human beings and the environment. Nanomaterials in the regime 1 -100 nm scale are a promising material for the research fraternities owing to their stupendous properties. The metallic/metal oxide nanoparticles ( silver, gold, copper oxide, iron oxide, magnesium oxide) are gaining significant momentum and need to be extensively studied. Magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) are a periclase, white hygroscopic material consisting of Mg2+ ions and O-2 ions in lattice arranged. These nanoparticles can be fabricated through physical, chemical and biological methods. The development of green synthesized MgONPs needs to be ascertained and explored its ultimate in medicine, health, cosmetics, environmental protection, chemical industries, and energy. Therefore, the present review manifests the green synthetic approaches of MgONPs and their impact on crystalline structure and shape. Further, we have provided the antibacterial and anticancer activities of MgONPs thoroughly reported in various kinds of literature. Overall, the unique MgONPs can be plausibly used as safe biomaterials in biomedical applications.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls: A Review of Recent Updates on Food Safety
and Environmental Monitoring, Health and Toxicological Implications,
and Analysis
Authors: Maghsoudi Armin Salek , Hassani Shokoufeh , Zarerad Elahe , Niksalehi Kimia , Armandeh Maryam , Sani Mahmood Alizadeh , Ataei Mahshid , Mousavi Taraneh
Published: December 2022

A class of organic chemicals known as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) consists of
chlorine, hydrogen, and carbon atoms. High boiling points, chemical stability, non-flammability,
and insulating properties have enabled them to be used in various industries. Because of their high
toxicity, PCBs were one of the first industrial compounds to be banned from production. These
compounds have high-fat solubility with bioaccumulation and biomagnification properties in the
environment, food chain, and individuals. Hence, they may have an impact not only on individual
organisms but ultimately on whole ecosystems. The main sources of PCB exposure are food and
environmental pollutants. In the toxicology of PCBs, oxidative stress plays the most influential
function. The induction of CYP1A1 due to the high affinity of PCBs for aryl hydrocarbon receptors
is considered a trigger for oxidative stress. Production of reactive oxygen species and depletion of
glutathione occur due to phase Ⅰ and Ⅱ metabolism, respectively. Thus, cellular redox balance may
be disrupted in the presence of PCBs and their metabolites. Chronic and long-term exposure to these
compounds can often lead to life-threatening diseases, like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular and
neurological diseases, cancer, and reproductive and endocrine disorders. We present the current
knowledge of the routes of PCB exposure and bioaccumulation, the outlook regarding environmental
and food safety, the potential role of PCBs in various diseases, the principal mechanisms responsible
for PCB toxicity, and the main detection techniques used for PCBs.
Biodistribution and Targeted Antitumor Effects of Trastuzumab-Modified
Gold Nanorods in Mice with Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yi Tang , Hongjiao Cai , Minling Zhuo , Xin Yang , Qingfu Qian , Zhixin Chen , Jing Yang , Zhikui Chen
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives:

Targeted drug is often engulfed and cleared by the reticuloendothelial
system in vivo, resulting in reduced treatment efficacy. This study aimed to explore the biodistribution
and HER-2-targeted antitumor effects of trastuzumab-modified gold nanorods (Tra-AuNRs) in
a gastric cancer animal model.

Methods:

Gold nanorods were synthesized using a seed-mediated growth method, and then subjected to
trastuzumab-targeted modification. Elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Xray
photoelectron spectroscopy were performed; UV-visible absorption peak, photothermal effects,
morphology, and size distribution of Tra-AuNRs were characterized. The targeted killing effect of Tra-
AuNRs on gastric cancer cells was assessed in vitro. Tra-AuNRs were injected intravenously and intratumorally
into gastric cancer-bearing nude mice in vivo and their distribution was detected. Tumor
growth inhibition rate and tumor apoptosis-related protein expression were compared between groups.

Results:

Tra-AuNRs presented a relatively uniform morphology with an average particle size of 59.9
nm and a longitudinal plasmon resonance absorption peak of 790 nm. The targeted killing rate of gastric
cancer cells in vitro by Tra-AuNRs was 87.9%. After intravenous injection, Tra-AuNRs were mainly
distributed in the liver, tumor, spleen, and lungs. Comparatively, Tra-AuNRs were mainly distributed
in the tumor when intratumorally injected, with a tumor concentration of 6.42 μg/g after 24 h. The tumor
growth inhibition rate reached 78.3% in the intratumoral injection group, with significantly higher
BAX, BAD, and CASPASE-3 expression than that in the intravenous injection group.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that Tra-AuNRs can be used for HER-2-positive gastric cancer
treatment. Intratumoral injection of Tra-AuNRs significantly increased the local tumor drug concentration
and improved the molecular targeted antitumor growth effect in gastric cancer-bearing nude mice.
An Ex vivo Investigation on Drug Permeability of Sheep Nasal Epithelial
Tissue Membranes from the Respiratory and Olfactory Regions
Authors: Haasbroek-Pheiffer Anja , Viljoen Alvaro , Steenekamp Jan , Chen Weiyang , Hamman Josias
Published: December 2022

Background:

Besides systemic drug delivery, the intranasal route of administration has
shown potential for direct nose-to-brain drug delivery, which has gained popularity because it bypasses
the blood-brain barrier.

Objective:

The region in the nose from which the epithelial tissue membrane is excised to conduct ex
vivo permeation studies for nasal drug delivery studies may be of importance, but the permeability of
the epithelium from the different nasal regions has not yet been investigated in the sheep model.

Method:

The permeation of five selected model compounds (i.e., atenolol, caffeine, Rhodamine 123,
FITC-dextran, and Lucifer Yellow) was measured across epithelial tissues that were excised from two
different areas of the sheep nasal cavity, namely the ventral nasal concha (representing respiratory epithelium)
and the ethmoid nasal concha (representing olfactory epithelium).

Results:

Although the selected compounds' permeation was generally slightly higher across the olfactory
epithelial tissues than across the respiratory epithelial tissues, it was not statistically significant except
in the case of atenolol.

Conclusion:

The presence of olfactory nerves and supporting cells and the gaps between them in the
olfactory epithelial tissues may have contributed to the higher permeation of atenolol, but this needs to
be further investigated to elucidate the precise mechanism.
A Case of Subdural Hematoma without Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Secondary to Rupture of Posterior Communicating Artery-infundibular
Dilatation
Authors: Altintas Taslicay Ceylan , Cam Isa , Cakir Ozgur , Ciftci Ercument , Kocer Naci
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Subdural hematoma without subarachnoid hemorrhage secondary to intracranial
aneurysm rupture is rare and may complicate patient management due to delay in diagnosis and
subsequent treatment. Herein, we describe a case presenting with pure SDH secondary to the rupture of
a posterior communicating artery infundibular dilatation (PcoA-ID). To the best of our knowledge, this
is the first case of rupture of a PcoA-ID with SDH in the convexity and tentorium, which also tracked
into the upper cervical spine along the subdural space. Additionally, we briefly discuss the previously
published cases of pure SDH secondary to intracranial aneurysm rupture.

Case Report:

A 44-year-old female presented with headache, dizziness, nausea and left-sided diplopia
to an outside institution. Initial diagnostic work-up showed no intracranial hemorrhage, however, magnetic
resonance angiography and subsequent digital subtraction angiography revealed left posterior
communicating artery infundibular dilatation. Two days later, the patient presented with a loss of consciousness.
Computed tomography was positive for bilateral hemispheric subdural hematoma with no
evidence of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Digital subtraction angiography showed left posterior communicating
artery infundibular dilatation and pseudoaneurysm originating from the inferior area of the
infundibular dilatation, concerning recent rupture. Balloon assisted coil embolization was performed
and the patient had a good outcome without any neurological deficit.

Conclusion:

Subdural hematoma in a young adult without a history of trauma or coagulopathy warrants
additional vascular imaging to search for underlying vascular lesions. It should also be kept in
mind that infundibular dilatation may rupture and cause a pure subdural hematoma.