bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SIMULASI PENGARUH LUAS PERMUKAAN ELEKTRODA TERHADAP TEGANGAN DAN KONSENTRASI PERMUKAAN ELEKTRODA PADA LEAD ACID REDOX FLOW BATTERY
Authors: Ghufron Muhammad , Hadila Silvi , Felindia Ervinka , Syaharani Nikita , Kumara Satria Pamungkas Panji , Hidayah Irvan Fajar , Saroja Gancang , Pranata Kurriawan Budi
Published: April 2022

Energy storage systems (ESS) with large storage capabilities, easy made, and low cost are in high demand. Dynamic lead acid battery (DLAB) as a breakthrough design compared conventional lead acid batteries offers a solution to these problems. Two Dimensional (2D) DLAB simulations with surface area variations of 8 cm2, 12 cm2, 16 cm2 and 20 cm2 were successfully build using the principle of tertiary current distribution and Nerst-Planck Interface. The results for one cycle charge-discharge test showed that the increase in surface area succeeded in increasing the final charging voltage with a value of 2.16 V; 2, 21 V; 2.30 V and 2.32 V and increase the initial discharging voltage by a value of 1.58 V; 1.59 V; 1.60 V and 1.62 V respectively but did not affect the electrode surface concentration. Dynamic lead acid battery has high energy efficiency of 70.6% -71.5%.
PENGARUH VARIASI ARUS PENGELASAN SHIELDED METAL ARC WELDING TERHADAP KEKUATAN TARIK BAJA ST-37
Authors: Muhammad Alief
Published: April 2022

In metal manufacturing, welding and casting became an important focus in its development. Going to industrial era 5.0, efficiency in welding and casting is very important. Welding is one of the simplest methods of joining metals to form the desired machining structure. Shielded Metal Arc Welding has several variables that can affect the welding results. Current strength has an important influence on the quality of the weld. So research on the effect of current strength on the results of welded joints on its mechanical strength is needed. In this study, the mechanical strength tested is the tensile strength and the current susceptibility used is the commonly used 80 to 140 Ampere using ST-37 Steel. The highest maximum loading value occurs in the sample with a current of 80A. However, the highest fracture and yield loads occurred in the sample with a current of 140A. All types of the highest tension occur in the sample with a current using a current of 140A which has the potential to be able to withstand high tensile strength.
Ethical-Attitudinal Profile Towards a New Normality in Future Peruvian Educators
Authors: Reluz-Barturén Francisco F. , Dioses-Lescano Nelly , Morales-Huamán Humberto Iván , Díaz- De Angulo Doris , Fernández Otoya Fiorela A. , Taboada Montaño Luisín A.
Published: April 2022

To determine the ethical-attitudinal profile of university students in the education career during the pandemic with a tendency towards a new normality. University students of the education career were surveyed online, in an ethical key (axiological attitude, moral attitude and attitude towards new normality). The research was descriptive of univariate hypothesis, with non-probabilistic snowball sampling, reaching a sample of 480 participants. The Ethical-Attitudinal Profile Scale (EPEA) was designed, whose reliability was 0.93 in Lawshe's formula and 0.89 in Cronbach's Alpha. In the axiological attitude, values were obtained more frequently: respect with 79%, sincerity with 73%, prudence with 72%. In the moral attitude, a polar result is contrasted between laxity (67%) and kindness (45%); while, in the attitude towards new normality, there was no spike in frequencies, being distributed more homogeneously between indicators, with a low resilience index. There is an adequate evaluative profile of the university students of the education career despite the context of the pandemic and the trend towards a new normality; having a moral attitude of laxity inferred by the circumstances of uncertainty that are experienced in adverse contexts.
Choques de política monetaria en México: una aplicación del modelo SVAR, 1995–2012
Authors: García–Andrés Adelaido , Torre Cepeda Leonardo
Published: April 2022

El trabajo analiza los efectos de choches monetarios de corto plazo sobre la producción y el nivel de precios en México. Se utiliza la metodología de Vectores Autorregresivos Estructurales (SVAR) de Bernanke y Mihov (1998) a fin de identificar choques específicos de política monetaria consistentes con los procedimientos operativos seguidos por las autoridades de monetarias en México durante el periodo de estudio. De manera general, se encuentra que el régimen de tasa de fondeo bancario ofrece una buena aproximación al proceso por el cual la autoridad monetaria compensa los choques monetarios, reduce la demanda por dinero y mantiene estabilidad en el nivel de precios.
Beneficio económico y turismo ecosistémico. El caso de las termales en Michoacán, México
Authors: Ortiz Paniagua Carlos Francisco , Arévalo Pacheco Georgina Jatzire
Published: April 2022

El turismo en aguas termales es una actividad recreativa de importancia económica que se ha practicado tradicionalmente en Zinapécuaro y Ciudad Hidalgo, Michoacán, México. El beneficio económico derivado del aprovechamiento de este servicio recreativo representa una fuente significativa de ingresos para la economía regional. El presente estudio estimó el valor económico del servicio ecosistémico recreativo del aprovechamiento de las aguas termales en Zinapécuaro. Los resultados muestran que el beneficio de este servicio ecosistémico de las aguas termales asciende a dos millones de pesos para el 2010; considerando una tasa de descuento futuro de 10% a 20 años el valor económico alcanza 18 millones de pesos. Desde el punto de vista económico esto justifica la implementación de una estrategia de aprovechamiento sustentable que permita expandir proyectos regionales en torno a este recurso natural.
Fricciones en el comercio interregional: una aproximación basada en datos municipales
Authors: Díaz Lanchas Jorge , Llano Verduras Carlos
Published: April 2022

Estudios recientes muestran que el efecto frontera, que enfatiza el impacto negativo de la distancia en los flujos de comercio internacional, surge de un error metodológico al utilizar la variable distancia, ya que al desagregar dicha variable no presenta efectos significativos. Bajo este contexto, utilizamos microdatos de los cargamentos distribuidos por tierra dentro de España durante el periodo 2003-2007, desagregamos los flujos de comercio municipal en un margen intensivo y extensivo y utilizamos diferentes medidas de costos de transporte, distancia geográfica y tiempo de traslado. Observamos que al considerar flujos comerciales detallados, el margen extensivo se incrementa en el tiempo mientras que el número de cargamentos disminuye conforme aumentan la distancia y el tiempo, lo anterior comparado con el valor promedio de dichos cargamentos (margen intensivo). En contraste con estudios previos, encontramos que la diferencia entre el margen intensivo y extensivo es mínima cuando se considera el tiempo en lugar de la distancia, lo cual también impacta en el valor total del comercio dentro de una misma municipalidad, ya que este resulta más importante. Finalmente, encontramos diversos efectos de las fronteras regionales en ambos márgenes, ya que tanto las provincias como las comunidades autónomas no impactan considerablemente en el comercio, especialmente en el margen intensivo. Estos hallazgos aportan evidencia frente al supuesto efecto frontera, el cual se presenta si la distancia estadística es medida de manera agregada, en lugar de considerar medidas más detalladas
Formando microempresarias: los servicios de desarrollo de negocio para reforzar el impacto de los microcréditos
Authors: Biosca Artiñano Olga
Published: April 2022

Acontecimientos como las recientes crisis microfinancieras han puesto de manifiesto que los servicios microfinancieros per se pueden no ser suficiente para mejorar las condiciones de vida de sus clientes. En este contexto, los servicios no financieros ofrecidos por las instituciones de microfinanzas resurgen como una forma de hacer las microfinanzas más efectivas en el alivio de la pobreza a través del desarrollo de capital humano. Explotando un experimento natural, este estudio mide el impacto marginal de un programa de capacitación en desarrollo de negocio internacionalmente estandarizado, ofrecido por una institución microfinanciera mexicana a mujeres que realizan una actividad productiva. El grupo de tratamiento recibió durante un año sesiones de 30-45 minutos tras las reuniones de crédito. A través de método de dobles diferencias, se observa que el programa no tiene los resultados esperados en variables clave como el volumen de ventas. Aunque contribuye a mejorar determinadas prácticas de gestión empresarial, se hallan indicios de que la capacitación puede reforzar la informalidad.
El crecimiento de las regiones y el paradigma del desarrollo divergente. Un marco teórico
Authors: Gutiérrez Casas Luis Enrique
Published: April 2022

Las teorías del crecimiento regional [TCR] son de fundamental importancia no únicamente para la comprensión del proceso de crecimiento, sino de las desigualdades o asimetrías inter e intrarregionales; esto es, del desarrollo divergente. El propósito de este artículo es proponer un marco de referencia general de las TCR bajo el entendido de que éstas son complementarias y no excluyentes. En un principio justificamos la revisión de las TCR y explicamos su pertinencia en el campo del análisis regional. Posteriormente abordamos de manera general y esquemática cada teoría a partir de sus supuestos y nos centramos en los factores y mecanismos que cada una resalta como determinantes del crecimiento de las regiones y aquellos que refuerzan el desarrollo divergente. Por último, planteamos una visión conjunta de las TCR y proponemos un marco de referencia general que sintetice sus principales propuestas y resalte el alto grado de complementariedad que hay entre éstas.
Strategi Peningkatan Produktivitas Padi melalui Sistem Salibu
Authors: Marpaung David Septian Sumanto
Published: April 2022

Beras merupakan makanan utama bagi masyarakat Indonesia. Kebutuhan akan beras, melalui tanaman padi meningkat seiring dengan peningkatan jumlah penduduk di Indonesia. Namun, ketersediaan lahan untuk bercocok tanam, terus berkurang dari tahun ke tahun. Sistem salibu merupakan salah satu metode yang dapat diterapkan untuk peningkatan produktivitas padi yang efektif dan ramah lingkungan. Berbagai macam strategi untuk mendukung sistem salibu dalam peningkatan nilai produksi tanaman padi telah diterapkan, diantaranya perlakuan waktu pemotongan tunggul, perlakuan tinggi pemotongan tunggul, manajemen air, penggunaan pupuk, dan penggunaan varietas unggul. Melalui tulisan  ini diharapkan  dapat  memberikan  informasi  tentang  sistem salibu padi  dan strategi peningkatan produktivitasnya.
Law, literature, and citizenship: a Literary Culture of the Law at school
Authors: Trindade André Karam , Karam Henriete
Published: April 2022

This paper has the purpose of publicizing the experience of the Program Law, Literature, and Citizenship, by explicating its proposal, theoretical foundations, goals, methodology, activities carried out, and the obtained results in the pilot project developed with the Research Group SerTão – Law and Literature Nucleus from Bahia (DGP/CNPq), from March 2018 to March 2020.
Dynamically Evaluating the Performance of Naturally Occurring Additives to Control Lost Circulation: On the Effect of Lost Circulation Material Type, Particle-Size Distribution, and Fracture Width
Authors: Ashoori Siavash , Bahari Moghadam Mahdi , Nazemi Rasoul , Nooripoor Vahid , Ahmadabadi Mahmud
Published: April 2022

Lost circulation is one of the most challenging problems during drilling of oil and gas wells. This issue leads to significant loss of drilling fluid, increase of nonproductive time as well as dictating additional costs to drilling companies. Lost circulation may also lead to other consequences, including stuck pipe, poor hole cleaning, and well control issues. How to efficiently control lost circulation have been traditionally depending on the type of the used lost circulation material (LCM). Injection of commonly available materials (without any further process on their chemical properties) into the thief zone is a common method of lost circulation control. These nonmodified materials are named as conventional LCMs against the unconventional LCMs which are designed/produced just for fluid lost control.

The objective of this paper is to comparatively investigate the performance of cane, oak shell, wheat, and mica as LCM of water-based drilling fluid exposed to fractured formations. These materials were chosen because of their low cost, easy access, and compatibility with the environment. The sealing efficiency of these materials was assessed at different particle-size distributions (PSDs) for proper treatment of loss circulation. To do so, an experimental setup containing a cell with adjustable fracture size was designed.

Among the LCM formulations made of each of the materials, oak shell formulations are better than the others, followed by mica and cane blends, respectively. The results reveal that combining the materials together is a better treatment than the separate use of them. As it will be seen in detail later, high diversity in particle size (broad PSD) causes more efficient control of fluid loss. Also, to reduce the dependency of sealing ability of LCM formulation on fracture size, mixing of the materials with different particle sizes and shapes is recommended.
Stability improvement of laccase for micropollutant removal of pharmaceutical origins from municipal wastewater
Authors: Meiczinger Mónika , Varga Béla , Wolmarans Lana , Hajba László , Somogyi Viola
Published: April 2022

Micropollutants are persistent and hazardous materials in low concentrations (ng·L− 1 – µg·L− 1), including substances such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products and industrial chemicals. The advancement of analytical chemistry has allowed for the detection of micropollutants; however, an efficient and economical treatment solution is yet to be installed. Fungal laccase has been a successful biocatalyst of these compounds. However, large-scale application of free enzyme is currently not feasible for removing water-borne micropollutants, partly due to relatively rapid loss in enzyme stability. In this paper, three types of cyclodextrin, α, β and γCD, were chosen to immobilise the laccase under various conditions with the aim to improve the stability of the enzyme. Laccase activity was chosen as a response parameter, and laccase-cyclodextrin binding was evaluated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results showed an optimum using α-cyclodextrin immobilisation. At that level, α-cyclodextrin increased the half-life of laccase and slightly improved its activity in all tested pH by physically bonding to laccase. By protecting the enzyme structure, activity was maintained under a range of circumstances (acidic conditions, from 10°C to 50°C). Under room temperature and at pH 5, α-cyclodextrin-laccase nanocomposite had a better removal efficiency of diclofenac compared to free laccase of the same concentration.
Comparative genomics reveals plasmid-encoded genes associated with Klebsiella infection in colonized patients
Authors: Vornhagen Jay , Roberts Emily , Unverdorben Lavinia , Mason Sophia , Patel Alieysa , Crawford Ryan , Holmes Caitlyn , Sun Yuang , Teodorescu Alexandra , Snitkin Evan , Zhao Lili , Simner Patricia , Tamma Pranita , Rao Krsihna , Kaye Keith , Bachman Michael
Published: April 2022

Klebsiella frequently colonizes the gut and colonization is associated with subsequent infection. To identify genes associated with progression from colonization to infection, we undertook a case-control comparative genomics study. Concordant cases (N = 85), where colonizing and invasive Klebsiella isolates were identical strain types, were matched to asymptomatically colonizing controls (N = 160). Thirty-seven genes were significantly associated with infection, 27 of which remained significant following adjustment for patient variables and bacterial phylogeny. Infection-associated genes were not previously characterized virulence factors, but instead a diverse group of stress resistance, regulatory and antibiotic resistance genes, despite careful adjustment for antibiotic exposure. Many infection-associated genes were plasmid borne, and for some, the relationship with infection was mediated by gut dominance. Five infection-associated genes were validated in a geographically independent cohort of colonized patients. This study identifies novel genes that are reproducibly associated with progression to infection in patients colonized by diverse Klebsiella.
Uptake of Screening and Risk Reducing Recommendations Among Women with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome Evaluated at a Large Urban Comprehensive Cancer Center
Authors: Assad Hadeel , Levitin Maria , Petrucelli Nancie , Manning Mark , Thompson Hayley S , Chen Wei , Jang Hyejeong , Simon Michael S
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Carriers of pathogenic variants in BRCA1/2 have an elevated lifetime cancer risk warranting high-risk screening and risk-reducing procedures for early detection and prevention. We report on prevention practices among women with pathogenic BRCA variants to evaluate compliance with NCCN recommendations and to identify barriers to guideline-recommended care.Methods: We evaluated women tested positive for pathogenic variant in BRCA1/2 via 54-item questionnaire to measure socio-demographics, medical history, rates of cancer screening and risk-reducing surgery, disclosure of test results, and cancer worry. We reported rates of compliance with risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO), risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM) and NCCN guidelines (version 3.2019). A multivariable logistic regression analyses was used to identify predictors of these outcomes. Results: Of 129 evaluable women with pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants, 95 (74%) and 77 (60%) underwent RRSO and RRM, respectively, and 107 (83%) were considered adherent to NCCN guidelines. After multivariable analyses, personal history of breast or ovarian cancer was positively associated with RRM (OR = 2.81; 95% CI 1.10 – 7.44; p = 0.025). Increasing age was associated with an increased likelihood of RRSO (OR=1.05; 95% CI 1.01 – 1.09; p = 0.022) and a decreased likelihood for RRM (OR=0.96; 95%CI 0.92 – 0.99; p value = 0.013). Women who had RRM were 3 times more likely to undergo RRSO (OR = 3.28; p = 0.004). Rates of RRSO or RRM were not impacted by participant race, education, annual household income, marital status, or family history. There was near universal (127/129) disclosure of genetic test results to family members resulting in the discovery of 1 relative with a pathogenic variant (range = 0-8) through cascade testing. Conclusion: Long term follow up of a cohort of women with pathogenic variants in BRCA1/2 revealed high rates of compliance with screening and risk reducing recommendations. Further efforts should focus on increasing compliance among unaffected carriers especially for RRSO.
Genomic landscape, immune characteristics and a prognostic mutation signature of cervical cancer in China
Authors: Liu Jing , Li Zirong , Lu Ting , Pan Junping , Li Li , Song Yanwen , Hu Dan , Zhuo Yanhong , Chen Ying , Xu Qin
Published: April 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze genomic alteration profiles and immune characteristics of a cohort of Chinese cervical cancer patients to understand why certain patients benefited from molecular targeted therapies, immunotherapy and their prognostic significance.Methods: PD-L1 expression, and clinicopathological information from 98 cervical cancer samples. Differences in PD-L1 expression and gene mutations between squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (AC) were analyzed by chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. Differences in gene mutations between our cohort and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort were tested by Fisher's exact test. Logistic regression was used to analyze factors influencing TMB-high.Results: Positive PD-L1 expression was significantly higher in cervical SCC than in cervical AC (87% vs. 39%, p < 0.001). Frequently mutated genes in cervical cancer included PIK3CA, KMT2D, and KMT2C genes, among others. PIK3CA gene mutation rates were significantly higher in SCC than in AC (p = 0.004). TERT gene mutation rate was significantly higher in our cohort than TCGA cohort (12% vs. 1%, p < 0.001). The independent predictors of TMB-high were KMT2C and LRP1B gene mutations (p < 0.05). we also found the PTEN mutations were associated with worse survival (median PFS, 12.16 vs. 21.75 months, p = 0.0024)Conclusion: Cervical SCC and AC have different molecular profiling and immune characteristics, suggesting that targeted treatments for SCC and AC patients may improve clinical outcomes. KMT2C and LRP1B gene mutations are independent predictors of TMB-high status in cervical cancer. We have also proposed the prognostic value of PTEN mutations.
A Universal Graph Deep Learning Interatomic Potential for the Periodic Table
Authors: Chen Chi , Ong Shyue
Published: April 2022

Interatomic potentials (IAPs), which describe the potential energy surface of a collection of atoms, are a fundamental input for atomistic simulations. However, existing IAPs are either fitted to narrow chemistries or too inaccurate for general applications. Here, we report a universal IAP for materials based on graph neural networks with three-body interactions (M3GNet). The M3GNet IAP was trained on the massive database of structural relaxations performed by the Materials Project over the past 10 years and has broad applications in structural relaxation, dynamic simulations and property prediction of materials across diverse chemical spaces. About 1.8 million potentially stable materials were identified from a screening of 31 million hypothetical crystal structures, demonstrating a machine learning-accelerated pathway to the discovery of synthesizable materials with exceptional properties.
Effects of building envelope features on airflow and pollutant dispersion within a symmetric street canyon
Authors: Sin Chung Hyok , Cui Peng-Yi , Jon Kwang Song , Luo Yang , Huang Yuandong
Published: April 2022

Building envelope features (BEFs) have attracted more and more attention as they have a significant impact on flow structure and pollutant dispersion within street canyons. This paper conducted CFD numerical models validated by wind-tunnel experiments, to explore the effects of the BEFs on characteristics of the airflow and pollutant distribution inside a symmetric street canyon under perpendicular incoming flow. Three different BEFs (balconies, overhangs, and wing walls) and their locations and continuity/discontinuity structures were considered. For each canyon with various BEFs, the air exchange rate (ACH), airflow patterns, and pollutant distributions, including the mean and maximum K values were evaluated and compared in detail. The results show that compared to the regular canyon, the BEFs will reduce the ACH of the canyon, but increase the disturbances (the proportion of ACH′) inside the canyon. The BEFs on the leeward wall have the least influence on the in-canyon airflow and pollutant distributions, followed by that on the windward wall. Then when the BEFs are on both walls, the ventilation capacity of the canyon is weakened greatly, and the pollutant concentration in the ground center is increased significantly, especially near the windward side. Moreover, the discontinuity BEFs will weaken the effect of the continuity BEFs on the in-canyon flow and dispersion, specifically, the discontinuity BEFs lead to the more dispersed distribution of high pollutant concentrations. These findings can help optimize the BEFs design to enhance ventilation and mitigate traffic pollution.
Pelvic floor disorders and sexual function in cervical cancer survivors: a meta-analysis
Authors: Shan Xiao , Qian Maolin , Wang Lan , Liu Xiaoqin
Published: April 2022

Purpose Pelvic floor disease (PFD) and female sexual dysfunction (FSD) are symptoms affecting the quality of life of patients with cervical cancer after treatment. Our purpose is to describe the prevalence of PFD and FSD in women with cervical cancer (CC).Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from database inception to 31 Jan 2021 and Selected articles assessing UI, FI, and FSD in women with CC. Observational studies were included if the literature studied UI and FI, and FSD.Results Of the 1037 studies, 14 were included: 7 studied FSD, 9 evaluated UI, and 3 described FI. Due to the use of different populations and treatment methods, the results were highly heterogeneous. After treatment, the prevalence of FSD, UI, and FI in CC patients was 45.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 21.8%, 68.3%), 34.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 25.5%, 42.7%%) , and 11.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 4.8%, 17.3%%), respectively. The results showed that different countries are the sources of high heterogeneity of UI and FI (P＜0.001).Conclusions In this meta-analysis, the prevalence of PFD and FSD was quite high. These results are important for increasing attention to pelvic floor disease and early prevention and rehabilitation.
Pinolenic acid exhibits Anti-inflammatory and Anti-atherogenic effects in Peripheral blood-derived Monocytes from patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Takala Rabaa , Ramji Dipak , Andrews Robert , Zhou You , Farhat Mustafa , Elmajee Mohammed , Rundle Shelley , Choy Ernest
Published: April 2022

Objectives: Pinolenic acid (PNLA), an omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid from pine nuts, has anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects. We aimed to investigate the direct anti-inflammatory effect and anti-atherogenic effects of PNLA on activated purified CD14 monocytes from peripheral blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in vitro.Methods: Flow cytometry was used to assess the proportions of CD14 monocytes expressing TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-8 in purified monocytes from patients with RA after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation with/without PNLA pre-treatment. The whole genomic transcriptome (WGT) profile of PNLA-treated, and LPS-activated monocytes from patients with active RA was investigated by RNA-sequencing.Results: PNLA reduced percentage of monocytes expressing cytokines: TNF-a by 23% (p=0.048), IL-6 by 25% (p=0.011), IL-1B by 23% (p=0.050), IL-8 by 20% (p=0.066). Pathway analysis identified upstream activation of peroxisomes proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), sirtuin3, and let7miRNA, KLF15 which are anti-inflammatory and antioxidative. In contrast, DAP3, LIF and STAT3, which are involved in TNF-a, and IL-6 signal transduction, were inhibited. Canonical Pathway analysis showed that PNLA inhibited oxidative phosphorylation (p=9.14E-09) and mitochondrial dysfunction (p=4.18E-08), while the sirtuin (SIRTs) signalling pathway was activated (p=8.89E-06) which interfere with the pathophysiologic process of atherosclerosis. Many miRNAs were modulated by PNLA suggesting potential post-transcriptional regulation of metabolic and immune response that has not been described previously. Multiple miRNAs target pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase-4 (PDK4), single-immunoglobulin interleukin-1 receptor molecule (SIGIRR), mitochondrially encoded ATP synthase membrane subunit 6 (MT-ATP6) and Acetyl-CoA Acyltranferase2 (ACAA2); genes implicated in regulation of lipid and cell metabolism, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction.Conclusion: PNLA has potential anti-atherogenic and immune-metabolic effects on monocytes that are pathogenic in RA and atherosclerosis. Dietary PNLA supplementation regulates key miRNAs that are involved in metabolic, mitochondrial, and inflammatory pathways.
Therapeutic plasma exchange in multiple sclerosis patients with an aggressive relapse–an observational analysis in a high–volume center
Authors: Bunganic R. , Blahutova S. , Revendova K. , Zapletalova O. , Hradilek P. , Hrdlickova R. , Ganesh A. , Cermakova Z. , Bar M. , Volny Ondrej
Published: April 2022

Introduction: An evidence–based treatment for a Multiple Sclerosis (MS) relapse is an intravenous administration of 3–5g of Methylprednisolone. In case of insufficient effect or corticosteroids intolerance, the therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is indicated.Objective: To assess the clinical effect of TPE in treatment of relapse in patients with relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS).Methods: We enrolled 155 patients meeting the following criteria: (1) age >18, (2) RRMS according to the McDonald´s 2017 criteria, (3) MS relapse and insufficient effect of corticosteroids/corticosteroids intolerance, (4) baseline EDSS <8. Exclusion criteria: (1) progressive form of disease, (2) history of previous TPE. Following parameters were monitored: EDSS changes (before and after corticosteroid treatment, before and after TPE; EDSS after TPE was assessed at the next clinical follow–up at the MS Center), and improvement of EDSS according to the number of procedures and baseline severity of relapse.Results: 115 females (74%) and 40 males (26%) were included. The median age was 41 years (IQR 33–47)–131 patients underwent the pulse corticosteroids treatment and TPE, while 24 patients underwent only TPE without any previous corticosteroid treatment. Median baseline EDSS was 4.5 (IQR 3.5–5.5), median EDSS after finishing steroids was 4.5 (IQR 4.0–5.5). EDSS prior to the TPE was 4.5 (IQR 4–6), EDSS after TPE was 4.5 (IQR 3.5–5.5). We observed a significant improvement in the EDSS after TPE (p<0.001). Sex differences were seen in TPE effectiveness, with average improvement of EDSS in females being –0.43 (SD±0.69) and in males being –0.069 (SD±1.05), p=0.048. There was no difference in EDSS improvement by age category: 18–30 years, 31–40 years, 41–50 years, >50 (p=0.94), nor by total TPE count (p=0.91). Conclusion: In this retrospective study of patients with an aggressive relapse and insufficient effect of intravenous corticosteroid treatment, a significant effect of TPE on EDSS improvement was observed. There was no significant difference in TPE effectivity according to the number of procedures, age, nor severity of a relapse. In this cohort, TPE was more effective in females.
A retrospective study of Enterococcus faecalis infective endocarditis: comparison of clinical characteristics and outcomes associated with treatment
Authors: Vigneswaran Nilanthy , McKew Genevieve
Published: April 2022

Introduction:A synergistic antibiotic combination of a penicillin and gentamicin (AG) is recommended first line management of Enterococcus faecalis infective endocarditis (EFIE). We compare the treatment outcomes between the conventional AG regimen to those treated with a combination of penicillin and ceftriaxone (AC). Given reported beta lactam toxicity risks, we also examine the difference in treatment outcomes between regimens of low dose, 1g 12 hourly (ACL) and high dose ceftriaxone, 2g 12 hourly (ACN) in combination with penicillin.Methods:A retrospective cohort study of patients treated for EFIE at single tertiary centre (2012–2019). Outcome measures examined are 90 & 180-day mortality, treatment associated adverse events, and relapse of bacteremia (within 1 year).Results:39 patients were enrolled [59% given (AC) (n = 24), 24% received ACL (n = 10) and 34% received ACN (n = 14)]. 39% received AG (n = 15). We found no significant difference in the mortality outcomes at 90 and 180 days between: a) those treated with a gentamicin combination and ceftriaxone combination overall (P = .114, P = .061) and b) between high and low dose ceftriaxone (P = 1.0, P = .673). No significant difference was noted between the above groups in incidence of relapsed bacteremia (P = .662, P = .414). A greater number of adverse events was observed in the gentamicin group compared to the overall ceftriaxone group (P = .009), with no difference between the high and low dose ceftriaxone groups (P = .05).Conclusion:Combination treatment with penicillin/ceftriaxone appears to be as effective (using low and high dose ceftriaxone) as penicillin/gentamicin in EFIE, with a lower rate of adverse events.
Development of machine learning models to predict ambulation outcomes after spinal metastasis surgery
Authors: Chavalparit Piya , Wilartratsami Sirichai , Santipas Borriwat , Ittichaiwong Piyalitt , Luksanapruksa Panya
Published: April 2022

Background: Postoperative ambulation status after spinal metastasis surgery is currently difficult to predict. Improved ability to predict this important postoperative outcome would improve management decision-making and help in determining realistic goals of treatment. Accordingly, this study set forth to develop machine learning models to predict ambulation outcomes after surgery for spinal metastasis.Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent spinal metastasis at a university-based medical center in Thailand during January 2009-November 2021. Collected data included preoperative parameters, and ambulatory status at 90 and 180 days after surgery. Seven machine learning algorithms, including decision tree, random forest, XGBoost, logistic regression, support vector machine (SVM), neural network, and stochastic gradient descent (SGD), were developed to predict ambulatory status at 90-days and 180-days postoperation. Model performance was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and F1-score.Results: A total of 178 patients were enrolled. The number of patients classified as ambulatory at 90-days and 180-days after surgery was 150 (84.3%) and 145 (81.5%) respectively. The XGBoost algorithm was found to most accurately predict 180-day ambulatory outcome (AUC: 0.92, F1-score: 0.92), and the random forest algorithm was shown to most accurately predict 90-day ambulatory outcome (AUC: 0.95, F1-score: 0.94).Conclusion: Machine learning algorithms were shown to be effective for predicting ambulatory status after surgery for spinal metastasis. The XGBoost and random forest algorithms best predicted postoperative ambulatory status at 180-days and 90-days after spinal metastasis surgery, respectively.
Quorum sensing plays an important role in heteroresistance regulation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Lu Yang , Liu Yuyang , Zhou Chenxu , Long Yifei , Lin Dongling , Xiong Rui , Xiao Qian , Huang Bin , Chen Cha
Published: April 2022

Background: The prevalence and genetic mechanism of antibiotic heteroresistance attracted more and more research attentions. However, its non-genenic mechanism is still largely unknown. As the most important mechanism that enable individual bacteria to coordinate their behavior in populations, the influence of Quorum sensing (QS) on heteroresistance was disclosed here. Results: We investigated the prevalence of heteroresistance in 170 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa against 7 different antibiotics. The population analysis profiles showed that P. aeruginosa was frequently heteroresistant to meropenem (MEM), amikacin (AMK), ciprofloxacin (CIP) and Ceftazidime (CAZ), which was related to down-regulated expression of QS genes lasI and rhlI. Further loss-of-function studies revealed that deficiency of lasI/rhlI facilitated heteroresistance of P. aeruginosa to all the above four antibiotics, which was abrogated by overexpression of lasI/rhlI or treatment with 3-oxo-C12-HSL/C4-HSL. In addition, we found that the expression of oprD and efflux-associated genes was regulated by lasI/rhlI, while downregulation of oprD and upregulation of efflux-associated genes was observed in heteroresistant subpopulation. Conclusions: These data suggest that QS plays a crucial role in heteroresistance regulation, partially mediated by oprD and efflux-associated genes. Our findings highlight the new function of QS and provide new insight into the mechanism of heteroresistance in the context of non-genetic factor.
Implementing a home-based personalised cognitive rehabilitation intervention for people with mild-to- moderate dementia: GREAT into Practice
Authors: Clare Linda , Kudlicka Aleksandra , Collins Rachel , Evans Suzannah , Pool Jackie , Henderson Catherine , Knapp Martin , Litherland Rachael , Oyebode Jan , Woods Robert
Published: April 2022

BackgroundEvidence-based rehabilitative interventions, if widely implemented, could equip people with dementia and their families to manage life with the condition and reduce the need for health and care services. The aim of this translational study, building on evidence from the GREAT randomised controlled trial, was to develop a foundation for implementing the GREAT Cognitive Rehabilitation intervention in community-based services for people with mild-to-moderate dementia.MethodsThe implementation strategy drew on several theoretical frameworks; key elements were identifying and supporting managerial and clinical leadership, conducting collaborative planning and target-setting, training and supporting practitioners, and providing external facilitation. We developed implementation plans with, and trained staff in, 14 organisations. We subsequently worked closely with 11 of these, 10 National Health Service organisations and one private home care provider, to support practitioners to deliver GREAT Cognitive Rehabilitation over a 12-month period. Outcome evaluation examined the perspectives of local steering group members, practitioners and service users, and the reach, effectiveness and cost of the intervention.Results Implementation was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but six organisations completed at least six months of intervention delivery. Forty-one practitioners, mainly occupational therapists, provided the intervention, and 54 people with dementia completed a course of GREAT Cognitive Rehabilitation. Goal attainment by people with dementia exceeded levels of improvement seen in the original trial. People with dementia, carers and practitioners all evaluated the intervention positively. Economic analysis indicated that the intervention could be provided at modest cost. Local steering group members believed the intervention benefitted staff and led to better outcomes for people with dementia, but identified a range of organisational barriers that impeded implementation and limited the potential for sustainability.ConclusionsGREAT Cognitive Rehabilitation benefits people with dementia, can be delivered effectively at modest cost in routine services, and is viewed positively by people with dementia, family carers and practitioners. To fully realise these benefits and achieve widespread and sustainable implementation, however, requires sufficient resources and a reorientation of service priorities towards preventive and rehabilitative approaches.RegistrationNational Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Central Portfolio Management System, registration number 38994
Source apportionment and risk assessment of heavy metals in urban soils from a Central China city by using Positive matrix factorization model coupled with Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Shen Lianfeng , Zeng Jin , Guo Erhui , Cheng Yongxia , Li Limei , Niu Cunyang , Yuan Yuan , Ma Li
Published: April 2022

Urban soils are an integral ingredient of the urban ecosystem, and whether heavy metals do harm to the city inhabitant health has been brought to the forefront. A total of 78 urban soil samples were collected from Zhengzhou, and the contamination level, source apportionment, concentration-oriented and source-oriented risk evaluation of pollution elements in the samples were carried out in the study. Results showed that Cd was the most serious contaminant and constituted considerable ecological risk compared to other elements. Four Factors (natural source, industrial production, agricultural activities and traffic discharges) were distinguished through the positive matrix factorization model in conjunction with correlation analysis, and their respective contribution rates were 18.73%, 33.22%, 23.91% and 24.14%. The probability distribution of health risk assessed by means of Monte Carlo simulation revealed that non-carcinogenic risks associated with heavy metals were acceptable for both adults and children, while the total carcinogenic risk values remained relatively high. Moreover, the children were more susceptible to health risks in comparison to adults, and the ingestion way was considered to be the major exposure pathway. The results of source-oriented health risk demonstrated that the agricultural source was the major contributor to health risks, which was characterized by As, Ni and Co.
Lacrimal gland measurements in patients with Graves’ ophthalmopathy
Authors: Yuksel Elmas , Sukun Abdullah
Published: April 2022

Purpose
Lacrimal gland sizes are increased in Graves' ophthalmopathy. Lacrimal gland herniation has been reported to be a simple radiological marker. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of lacrimal gland herniation (LGH) with lacrimal gland dimensions, proptosis, and hormonal parameters.
Methods
Sixty-eight eyes of 34 patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy were evaluated. Lacrimal gland herniation, proptosis, the long and short axis of the lacrimal gland were measured in mm on the right and left sides. TSH, FT4, FT3, Anti-TPO and Anti-TG values of each patient were recorded. Multiple linear regression was applied to determine the factors affecting lacrimal gland herniation.
Results
21 female 13 male 34 patients were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was found to be 37.29 ± 11.91 years The regression model for LGH was found to be statistically significant. (R2 right eye :0.57 R2 left eye 0.51 p < 0.001). The predictive variables for LGH were short diameter of the lacrimal gland and proptosis. No statistical significance was found in other variables (p < 0.05). The equation showing right LGH in millimeters was found as-5.268 + Lacrimal gland short-axis x 1.271 + Proptosis x 0.284. The equation showing left LGH in millimeters was found as-3.598 + lacrimal gland short-axis x 0.937 + Proptosis x 0.292.
Conclusions
Lacrimal gland herniation is associated with lacrimal gland short diameter and proptosis. Our findings support that lacrimal gland herniation may be an important and useful radiological marker in Graves' ophthalmopathy.
The prevalence of multimorbidity and its associations in community-dwelling older adults in rural Tanzania; a cross- sectional study
Authors: Lewis Emma Grace , Gray William K. , Walker Richard , Urasa Sarah , Witham Miles , Dotchin Catherine
Published: April 2022

Objectives: This paper aims to describe the prevalence, patterns and factors associated with multimorbidity, by both self-report and clinical assessment/screening methods in community-dwelling older people living in rural Tanzania. Methods: A randomised frailty-weighted sample of non-institutionalised adults aged ≥60 years underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment and in-depth assessment. The comprehensive geriatric assessment consisted of a history and focused clinical examination. The in-depth assessment included standardised questionnaires, screening tools and blood pressure measurement. The prevalence of multimorbidity was calculated for self-report and non-self-reported methods (clinician diagnosis, screening tools and direct measurement). Multimorbidity was defined as having two or more conditions. The socio-demographic associations with multimorbidity were investigated by multivariate logistic regression.Results: A sample of 235 adults participated in the study, selected from a screened sample of 1207. The mean age was 75 years (range 60 to 110) and 136 (57.8%) were women. Adjusting for frailty-weighting, the prevalence of self-reported multimorbidity was 26.1% (95% CI 16.7-35.4), and by clinical assessment/screening was 67.3% (95% CI 57.0-77.5). Adjusting for age, sex, education and frailty status, multimorbidity by self-report increased the odds of being financially dependent on others threefold (OR 3.3 [95% CI 1.4-7.8]), and of a household member reducing their paid employment nearly fourfold (OR 3.8. [95% CI 1.5-9.2]).Conclusions: Multimorbidity is prevalent in this rural lower-income African setting and is associated with evidence of household financial strain. Multimorbidity prevalence is higher when not reliant on self-reported methods, revealing that many conditions are underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Designed Rubredoxin miniature in a fully artificial electron chain triggered by visible light
Authors: Chino Marco , Costanzo Luigi Di , Leone Linda , Gatta Salvatore La , Famulari Antonino , Chiesa Mario , Lombardi Angela , Pavone Vincenzo
Published: April 2022

Designing metal sites into de novo proteins has significantly improved, recently. However, identifying the minimal coordination spheres, able to encompass the necessary information for metal binding and activity, still represents a big challenge, today. Here, we tested our understanding with a benchmark, nevertheless difficult, case. We assembled in a small 28-residue peptide the quintessential elements required to correctly fold around a single iron redox center, coordinated to four cysteinyl thiolates (FeCys4 site), and to efficiently function in electron-transfer. This study represents a milestone in de novo protein design: for the first time the crystal structure of a designed tetra-thiolate metal-binding protein is reported within sub-Å agreement with the intended design. This allowed us to well correlate structure to spectroscopic and electrochemical properties. Given its high reduction potential compared to natural and designed FeCys4-containing proteins, we exploited it as terminal electron acceptor of a fully artificial chain triggered by visible light.
The influence of a single water molecule on the reaction of BrO + HO2
Authors: Ma Lu , He Bing , Zhao Meilian , Liu Yongguo , Song Ruojing , Du Huaming , Li Huirong , Zhang Yunju
Published: April 2022

The influence of a single water molecule on the BrO + HO2 hydrogen extraction reaction has been explored by taking advantage of CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVTZ//B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) method. The reaction in the absence of water have two distinct kinds of H-extraction channels to generate HOBr + O2 and HBr + O3, and the channel of generation of HOBr + O2 occupied the BrO + HO2 reaction. The rate coefficient of the most feasible channel for the BrO + HO2 reaction in the absence of water is estimated to be 1.44 ´ 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 at 298.15 K, which is consistent with the experiment. The introduction of water made the reaction more complex, but the products are unchanged. Four distinct channels, beginning with HO2…H2O with BrO, H2O…HO2 with BrO, BrO…H2O with HO2, H2O…BrO with HO2 are researched. The most feasible channels, stemming from H2O…HO2 with BrO, and BrO…H2O with HO2, are much slower than the reaction of BrO + HO2 without water, respectively. Thus, the existence of water molecule takes a negative catalytic role for BrO + HO2 reaction.