bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial DNA Quantification Correlates with the Developmental Potential of Human Euploid Blastocysts but not with that of Mosaic Blastocysts
Authors: Luo Wen , Zheng Yi-Min , Hao Yan , Zhang Ying , Zhou Ping , Wei Zaolian , Cao Yunxia , Chen Dawei
Published: March 2023

Purpose
We aimed to study the association between adjusted mtDNA levels in human trophectoderm biopsy samples and the developmental potential of euploid and mosaic blastocysts.
Methods
We analyzed relative mtDNA levels in 2,814 blastocysts obtained from 576 couples undergoing preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy from June 2018 to June 2021. All patients underwent in vitro fertilization in a single clinic; the study was blinded—mtDNA content was unknown at the time of single embryo transfer. The fate of the euploid or mosaic embryos transferred was compared with mtDNA levels.
Results
Euploid embryos had lower mtDNA than aneuploid and mosaic embryos. Embryos biopsied on Day 5 had higher mtDNA than those biopsied on Day 6. No difference was detected in mtDNA scores between embryos derived from oocytes of different maternal ages. Linear mixed model suggested that blastulation rate was associated with mtDNA score. Moreover, the specific next-generation sequencing platform used have a significant effect on the observed mtDNA content. Euploid embryos with higher mtDNA content presented significantly higher miscarriage rates, while no significant difference was observed in the mosaic cohort.
Conclusion
Our results will aid in improving methods for analyzing the association between mtDNA level and blastocyst viability.
Chlorpromazine affects glioblastoma bioenergetics by interfering with pyruvate kinase M2
Authors: Abbruzzese Claudia , Matteoni Silvia , Matarrese Paola , Signore Michele , Ascione Barbara , Iessi Elisabetta , Gurtner Aymone , Sacconi Andrea , Ricci-Vitiani Lucia , Pallini Roberto , Pace Andrea , Villani Veronica , Polo Andrea , Costantini Susan , Budillon Alfredo , Ciliberto Gennaro , Paggi Marco G
Published: March 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequent and lethal brain tumor, whose therapeutic outcome - only partially effective with current schemes - places this disease among the unmet medical needs, and effective therapeutic approaches are urgently required. In our attempts to identify repositionable drugs in glioblastoma therapy, we identified chlorpromazine (CPZ) as a very promising compound. Here we aimed to further unveil the mode of action of this drug.
We performed a supervised recognition of the signal transduction pathways potentially influenced by CPZ via Reverse-Phase Protein microArrays (RPPA) and carried out an Activity-Based Protein Profiling (ABPP) followed by Mass Spectrometry (MS) analysis to possibly identify cellular factors targeted by the drug. Indeed, the glycolytic enzyme PKM2 was identified as a major target of CPZ. Furthermore, using the Seahorse platform, we analyzed the bioenergetics changes induced by the drug.
CPZ hindered GBM anabolic pathways and stimulated autophagy. Consistent with the ability of CPZ to target PKM2, we detected relevant changes in GBM energy metabolism, possibly attributable to the drug’s ability to inhibit the oncogenic properties of PKM2. RPE-1 non-cancer neuroepithelial cells appeared resistant to the drug. PKM2 silencing reduced the effects of CPZ. 3D modeling showed that CPZ interacts with PKM2 tetramer in the same region involved in binding other known activators.
The effect of CPZ can be epitomized as an inhibition of the Warburg effect and, thus, malignancy in GBM cells while sparing RPE-1 cells. These preclinical data enforce the rationale that allowed us to investigate the role of CPZ in GBM treatment in an ongoing multicenter Phase II clinical trial.
Effect of different rates of irrigation, soil conditioners, and potassium fertilizer on the productivity and fruit characters of Valencia orange trees (Citrus sinensis L.) growing under North Sinai conditions
Authors: Abobatta Waleed , Hegab Rehab , Atayia Shaimaa
Published: March 2023

Due to the water scarcity crisis that faces Egypt, there is more need for new management practice to sustain citrus production under sandy soil conditions. The investigation of different rates of irrigation, soil conditioners, and potassium fertilizer on the growth and productivity of Valencia orange trees was conducted in Baloza area of North Sinai. The treatments include two levels of irrigation (100% and 75% of field capacity) and soil application of two soil conditioners namely Super absorbent polymer (SAP) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), were added (50 g/tree) on mid of January, and two rates of potassium fertilizers (450g and 340 g/ tree/yearly). The maximum plant growth parameters like canopy volume and chlorophyll leaf content recorded in the trees that received 50g SAP and 480g potassium per tree under full field capacity conditions, furthermore, various treatment enhancing the nutrition statues of trees in terms of N, K, P leaves contents, and reduce proline content. Highest fruit yield per tree (55.2 & 60.2 kg), fruit yield (t/ha), and fruit weight (190.0 & 191.9 g) were recorded in the trees that received 480 g potassium and 50g PVC under highest irrigation rate, while, the number of fruits per tree (303.8 &359.3) were maximizing in treatment of 75% Fc with PVC polymrt and low rate of K, in the first season and in treatment of 100% Fc withSAP polymer and low rate of K, in the second one. Furthermore, various treatments improved fruit characters such as fruit shape index, Juice ratio, and TSS/acid ratio.
Harmful Cultural Traditions: An Analysis of Female Circumcision Practice in Maldives
Authors: Ibrahim Fazeela , Sulaiman Asma Ibrahim , Ahmed Amzath
Published: March 2023

Female circumcision affects the lives of millions of girls and women worldwide. This study assessed the demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with the occurrence of female circumcision among women age 15–49 in Maldives. Based on data from the 2016-17 Maldives Demographic and Health Survey, this study used bivariate and logistic regression analyses to examine the characteristics associated with the occurrence of female circumcision. Among all respondents, 17% of the 5943 women who have heard of female circumcision reported having undergone the procedure. The findings revealed that there is a significant difference in female circumcision by age, education, occupation, and attitudes towards female circumcision. Furthermore, most circumcisions occurred before age 5, and was highest in Malé, and the South and North regions. The variables related to opinions were most strongly associated with female circumcision. Compared to women who did not hold these opinions, women who believed that female circumcision is required by their religion or that the practice of female circumcision should continue had more than twice the odds of being circumcised. In addition, crosstabulations of the opinion variables with age and region have found that the highest proportion of women who held these beliefs were age 25–39 and lived in Malé. Therefore, we recommend further research and encouragement to enact policies and legislation that would eliminate the practice of female circumcision in Maldives.
Effectiveness of opportunistic osteoporosis screening on chest CT using the DCNN model
Authors: Pan Jing , Lin Peng-cheng , Gong Shen-chu , Wang Ze , Cao Rui , Lv Yuan , Zhang Kun , Wang Lin
Published: March 2023

Objective To develop and evaluate a chest CT deep learning model that achieves favorable performance on opportunistic osteoporosis screening using the lumbar 1 + lumbar 2 vertebral body fusion feature images, and explore the feasibility and effectiveness of the model based on the lumbar 1 vertebral alone.
Materials and methods The chest CT images of 1048 physical examination subjects from January 2021 to June wereretrospectively collected as the internal dataset (548 for training, 100 for tuning and 400 for test for the segmentation model and 530 for training, 100 for validation and 418 for test set for the classification model). The subjects were divided into three categories according to the quantitative CT measurements, namely, normal, osteopenia and osteoporosis. First, a deep learning-based segmentation model was constructed, and the Dice similarity coefficient was used to compare the consistency between the model and manual labelling. Then, 2 classification models were established, namely, 1) model 1 (fusion feature construction of lumbar vertebral bodies 1 and 2) and 2) model 2 (feature construction of lumbar 1 alone). Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the models, and the Delong test was used to compare the areas under the curve.
Results When the number of images in the training set was 300, the DSC value was 0.951±0.030 in the test set. The results showed that the model 1 diagnosing osteopenia achieved an AUC of 0.952; The model 1 diagnosing osteoporosis achieved an AUC of 0.980; the model 2 diagnosing osteopenia achieved an AUC of 0.940; the model 2 diagnosing osteoporosis achieved an AUC of 0.978. The Delong test showed that there was no significant difference in AUC values between the osteopenia group and osteoporosis group (P=0.210, 0.546), while the AUC value of normal model 2 was higher than that of model 1 (0.990 vs. 0.983) (P=0.033).
Conclusion This study proposed a chest CT deep learning model that achieves favorable performance on opportunistic osteoporosis screening using the lumbar 1 + lumbar 2 vertebral body fusion feature images.. we further constructed the comparable model based on the lumbar 1 vertebra alone which can shorten the scan length, reduce the radiation dose received by patients, and reduce the training cost of technicians.
Megakaryocyte NLRP3 hyperactivation induces anemia and potentiates inflammatory response in mice
Authors: Brill Alexander , Bourne Joshua , Campos Joana , Hopkin Sophie , Whitworth Katharine , Palis James , Senis Yotis , Rayes Julie , Iqbal Asif
Published: March 2023

The NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been described in both immune cells and platelets but its role in the megakaryocyte (MK) lineage remains elusive. Here, we generated Nlrp3A350V/+/Gp1ba-CreKI/+ mice carrying MK/platelet-specific mutation associated with human Muckle-Wells syndrome. Platelets from these mice expressed elevated levels of both precursor and active form of caspase-1 suggesting hyperactivity of NLRP3 inflammasome. Nlrp3A350V/+/Gp1ba-CreKI/+ mice developed normally and had normal platelet counts. Expression of major platelet receptors, platelet functions, and venous thrombosis were unchanged. Nlrp3A350V/+/Gp1ba-CreKI/+ mice had mild anemia, reduced Ter119+ cells in the bone marrow, and splenomegaly. A mild increase in MK TGF-β1 might be involved in the anemic phenotype. Zymosan stimulation in Nlrp3A350V/+/Gp1ba-CreKI/+ mice induced increased neutrophil egression and levels of a set of proinflammatory cytokines, IL-10 and G-CSF in the peritoneal fluid. Thus, MK/platelet NLRP3 promotes the acute inflammatory response and its hyperactivation leads to mild anemia and increased extramedullary erythropoiesis.
Flood modelling shows increased impacts from flooding in southern Thailand as a result of climate change
Authors: Curoy Jerome , Ward Raymond , Wang Yi , Martin David , Alamirew Netsanet , Barlow John , Puch Elena , Tenedor Jose , Dudhia Jimy , Moses Cherith , Nakhapakorn Kanchana
Published: March 2023

Flooding is one of the most commonly occurring natural disasters across the world. Its occurrence is predicted to become more frequent with climate change and associated rainfall increases. This study used a bespoke software Flowroute-i, developed by Ambiental, UK specialists in flood risk assessment and modelling, utlising meteorological and spatial data to produce flood maps. The study was conducted in 6 catchments in southern Thailand modelling flood depth and extent associated with high rainfall events with return periods of 20, 50 and 100 years. Both a present-day scenario and a future scenario (RCP 6.0) with projections to 2100 were modelled. The models suggest that there could be an increase of up to 37.5% in flood extent, particularly in the middle of the catchment. This was particularly evident on the eastern side of the Thai peninsula, Nakhon Si Thammarat, in part as a result of the large flat coastal plain adjacent to steep basin geomorphology. These results should allow appropriate agencies to initiate flood mitigation measures, as the impacts of present-day flood events in the studied areas have been noted to be particularly devastating to life, livelihoods, and infrastructure and this looks set to worsen in a warming world.
Analysis of Distribution Characteristics of Inhaled Allergen among Children with Allergic Rhinitis and/or Bronchial Asthma in Northern China
Authors: Guo Qi , Song Qinwei , Li Juqiong , Ma Lijuan
Published: March 2023

Background
The distribution characteristics of inhaled allergen sensitization is important for children with allergic rhinitis and/or bronchial asthma, and can provide basis for diagnosis and treatment, allergen avoidance and disease management. Major inhaled allergens vary in different age and seasons.
Methods
Data from 9369 children with bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis treated in Children’s Hospital Attached to the Capital Institute of Paediatrics from January 2020 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. We divided the subjects into preschool age (≤ 5y), school age (5y-≤12y) and adolescence (> 12y) and according to season we divided 4 groups: spring, summer, autumn, winter. The ImmunoCAP system was used to detect serum allergens sIgE. Enumeration data were expressed as a percentage (%), and comparisons between groups were conducted using the χ².
Results
1. The positive rates of inhaled allergens among subjects in sequence from high to low were: mx2 (molds), w6 (artemisiaargyi), wx5 (weeds pollen combination), w1 (ragweed), tx5 (trees pollen combination), d2 (dermatophagoides farina), d1 (dermatophagoides pteronyssinus), ex1 (animal dander combination), i6 (Blattella germanica). 2. The primacy inhaled allergen in preschool group and school age group was mx2 (38.41% and 42.81%), and in adolescent group w6 was the highest inhaled allergen (43.75%), followed by d2 (40.91%) and d1 (37.42%). Except for mx2, the positive rates of inhaled allergens increased with the increase of age. 3. In different seasons, the positive rates of ex1, wx5, mx2, tx5 and w6 were statistically different among groups (P < 0.05). The positive rate of wx5 in spring was the highest (48.23%), mx2 in summer and winter was the highest (57.06%, 28.81%), w6 in autumn was the highest (52.11%).
Conclusions
Mx2 is the most important allergen in Chinese children with asthma and/or rhinitis. The positive rates of inhaled allergens increase with age, and the sensitization spectrum changes. The major allergens are different in different seasons. Clinicians need to monitor allergens regularly during the course of disease follow-up, in order to timely adjust the treatment plan.
Comparison of low cost substrates and Spawn levels for Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) cultivation in Afghanistan
Authors: Danishiar Sayeed Qadir , Jamily Abdul Saleem , Falahzadah Mohammad Hussain , Osmani Aziz Ahmad , Ajir Gul Mohammad
Published: March 2023

There is a significant interest in cultivation of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) as nutritious food, with the rise in its consumption. Thus, there is a need to compare different low-cost available substrates for its productivity in Afghanistan. In the present study, two substrates wheat straw and tree leaves along with their combination (1:1) as a single substrate were tested based on 10, 20 and 30 grams of spawn (wheat seeds mycelium growth). And the growth rate of fruiting bodies (fresh weight) were used for statistical analysis. When the wheat straw with 30 gr of wheat seeds spawn was used, resulted the highest yield (348 gr/Kg substrate). While the growth of the mushroom showed better result (273 gr/Kg substrate) on mixed substrates with 30 gr of spawn as compared with the third substrates in which consist of tree leaves + 30 gr of wheat seeds growth spawn (111gr/Kg substrate) indicating the lowest yield for P. ostreatus. This study, concluded that the wheat straw substrate had affected significantly positive on fresh weight, and its yield was higher when maximum dose of spawn applied. For the best of our knowledge this is the first study evaluated local substrates for cultivation of the mushroom in Afghanistan.
LKB1 delays atherosclerosis by inhibiting phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Chen Kaicong , Zhu Chunyan , Zhang Qing , Zeng Zhihuan , Chen Rong , Li Tudi , Luo Junqian , Zhou Zhihao , Zeng Rui
Published: March 2023

Background and objective: Although liver kinase B1 (LKB1) is a well-known tumor suppressor gene, and its encoded protein has important biological functions, it is not clear whether LKB1 can inhibit atherosclerosis by regulating vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship among LKB1, VSMCs and atherosclerosis.
Methods and results: ApoE-/- mice with VSMCs-specific overexpression of LKB1 were constructed by adeno-associated virus transfection technique, and then fed with high-fat diet for eight weeks. The effect of LKB1 overexpression on atherosclerosis in mice was investigated by oil red O staining, HE staining, immunofluorescence and Western Blot. The results showed that the expression of LKB1 mRNA and protein in arterial tissue of mice increased significantly after overexpression of LKB1. The degree of atherosclerosis, smooth muscle fiber proliferation and lipid accumulation were significantly alleviated in the overexpression group. The results of Western Blot showed that the expression of α-SMA was increased, while the expression of OPN and CD68 was significantly decreased in the overexpression group (P<0.05). The Immunofluorescence results of Image Pro Plus software analysis showed that the co-localization relationship between α-SMA and CD68 was more obvious in the control group (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: Our results suggested that LKB1 can delay the progression of atherosclerosis by inhibiting the phenotypic transition of VSMCs.
Lanthanum triflate as a capable catalyst for the synthesis of xanthenediones and the corresponding theoretical studies
Authors: Fahim Marzieh Hojati , Habibi Davood , Bayat Mehdi , Heydari Somayyeh
Published: March 2023

The main purpose of this work was proposing a versatile and capable method for the synthesis of diverse xanthenediones from the three-component condensation reaction of two moles of dimedone and one mole of various aldehydes by the lanthanum triflate catalyst in solvent-free conditions at 60 °C. The products were characterized by comparison of their melting points, IR, and NMR spectra with authentic samples.
Also, the proposed reaction mechanism for the synthesis of xanthenediones was confirmed at M062x/def2-SVP level of theory in the gas phase.
The Blurred Lines of Professionalism in Dentistry
Authors: Bartlett Sophie , Russ Elaine , Bullock Alison , Cserzo Dorottya , Cowpe Jonathan
Published: March 2023

Introduction: as in other health professions, professionalism is a core concept in dentistry. Endeavours to determine a clear definition of professionalism in dentistry are widespread. However, there has been substantially less focus on the boundaries of professionalism, and what constitutes unprofessional or a lapse in professionalism.Aims: what leads a dentist’s professionalism to be called into question? An exploration of the boundaries between professional and unprofessional and the implications for maintaining professionalism in dentistry.Methods: drawing on data from a large mixed-method study, we conducted a thematic analysis of 772 open-text responses, from dental professionals and members of the public, to an online survey.Results: two lines of argument were identified for the conditions under which a dentist’s professionalism is called into question: circumstances that bear a direct influence on patient care, and circumstances that lead to the loss of patient trust. We identify and review processes that build and foster patient trust and thereby maintain professionalism.Conclusion: the findings support an approach to professionalism that mirrors a dentist’s approach to clinical practice. We provide two detailed recommendations for consideration: learned and tailored interactions, and judgement and reflection.
A case of BRCA2-pathogenic variant breast cancer with metachronous endometrial cancer and pancreatic cancer: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Oshi Masanori , Yamada Akimitsu , Kimura Aki , Kataoka Toshiaki , Kobayashi Noritoshi , Ichikawa Yasushi , Yamanaka Shoji , Fujii Satoshi , Endo Itaru
Published: March 2023

Background: Since the popularization of cancer screening and an improvement in treatment over the last two decades, multiple primary malignant neoplasms (MPMNs) have been increasingly reported. We report a patient who developed metachronous multiple primary malignant neoplasms in the breast, the endometrium, and the pancreas over a period of 13 years.
Case presentation: A 42-year-old woman was first diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent breast-conserving surgery with adjuvant radiation therapy and endocrine therapy. Four years after breast surgery, she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer and underwent a laparoscopic modified radical hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. However, there was peritoneal dissemination of endometrial cancer one year after surgery which could be removed laparoscopically followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. Ten years after breast cancer surgery, Pleural metastasis of breast cancer was diagnosed and treated by endocrine therapy. Thirteen years after breast cancer surgery, a pancreatic tumor with multiple liver masses emerged. It was difficult to diagnose whether primary or metastasis cancer by the results of the pathological analysis. Finally, we diagnosed primary pancreatic cancer with liver metastasis by clinical examination with the BRCA2-pathogenic variant. These tumors were well responded to chemotherapy and the patient survived during a follow-up period of 8 months.
Conclusions:According to MPMNs, breast cancer patients should be followed-up carefully for the possibility of BRCA pathogenic variant and development of different primary malignant neoplasms.
Acid Hydrothermal Amendment of Grape Wine Pomace: Enhancement of Phenol and Carbohydrate Co-solubilization
Authors: Serrano Antonio , Díaz-Navarrete Paola , Mora Roberto , Ciudad Gustavo , Ortega Juan Carlos , Pinto-Ibieta Fernanda
Published: March 2023

The byproduct from the winery industry has many bioactive compounds which are considered high value-added compounds. In addition, white grape pomace (GP) is rich in carbohydrates, which consequently can be used as raw material for subsequent bioprocesses. The present study carried out low-temperature hydrothermal treatments using different operational conditions: temperature (65–95°C), operational time (120–240 min), sulfuric acid concentration addition (5–15% v/v). The results show that using 65°C, 120 minutes and 15% (v/v) of H2SO4 it was possible to obtain a liquid phase rich in phenols and carbohydrates. Reaching a total of phenol compounds of 2113 ± 140 mg gallic acid/kg GP, composed mainly of 3-hydroxytyrosol (1330 ± 22 mg/kg GP). On the other hand, the carbohydrate solubilization reached 245 g glucose/kg GP. These results demonstrate the potential of hydrothermally treated grape pomace as raw material for biorefinery processes.
Potential effect of pre-treatments on antinutritional and mineral composition of garden cress seed (Lepidium sativum)
Authors: Malhotra Umang , Sontakke Manmath
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to screen an effective combination of treatment times for the processing of garden cress seeds (GCS) to enhance nutritional value. GCS was subjected to different combinations of pre-treatments, namely boiling (10 min), blanching (3 min), and soaking (12 hr) followed by roasting (2.5, 5 and 7.5 min), respectively which were compared with control sample for maximum mineral retention, especially calcium. It was found that treatment with SR 2.5 increased total protein and ash to 22.90% and 5.24%, respectively. BoR 7.5 treatment increased the fat content to 23.86%. The greatest calcium retention (378 mg/100 g) was observed when treating SR 7.5, as the ANF decreased from 458.3 to 414.5 mg/100 g for phytate and from 152.11 to 93.93 mg for oxalate /100 g. Therefore, treatment with SR 7.5 can be considered as the best pre-treatment to improve the nutritional value of GCS and reduce the anti-nutritional components.
Swarm Intelligence techniques for optimization of Microgrid with Renewable Energy System
Authors: Vaish Jayati , Tiwari Anil Kumar , Seethalekshmi K.
Published: March 2023

Recently, clean power generation has received a lot of attention in modern power systems as a means to provide sustainability and high flexibility in the power industry. Due to this, modern energy systems are now reliant on Microgrids (MGs), which can easily access and operate Renewable Energy Systems (RES) and other Distributed Generations. The use of Microgrids plays a vital role in implementing clean and renewable energy. This will enhance energy security, making considerable financial savings, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In this paper, a grid-connected Microgrid system is considered as test model that includes solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT), micro gas turbine (MT), fuel cell (FC), and battery energy storage system (BESS). The developed system is presented as a multi-objective function with constraints that can be resolved by a significant optimization method. Various commonly used Swarm Intelligence (SI) based meta-heuristic optimization techniques such as Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Artificial Immune System (AIS), Bacteria Forging Optimization (BFO), Shuffled Frog Leaping Algorithm (SFLA), Artificial Bee Colony (ABC), Cuckoo Search (CS), Bat Algorithm (BA), Firefly Algorithm (FFA), Krill Herd (KH), Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) can be used to optimize above stochastic multi-objective problem of Microgrid. To assist researchers in selecting the best optimization approaches for their study, a comparison of above-mentioned SI based optimization techniques is provided in this paper. The discussion also includes upcoming research issues for Microgrid operation optimization.
Management of ureteric stones in children: a comparison between pneumatic lithotripsy with Ho: YAG laser lithotripsy .Which is better
Authors: Mohemmed Maged Asgher , Attar Firas Shakir , Abdullah Abdullah Yousif
Published: March 2023

Background
When coming to discuss urinary stone disease in children, it seems that there are so many differences regarding etiology, incidence and the course of the disease as compared to adults. The introduction of semi rigid small caliber ureteroscopes and lithotripsy modalities using pneumatic and lithotripsy holmium: yttrium aluminum- garnet ( Ho: YAG ) laser lithotripsy has improved the success rate and decreased the incidence of complications of treatment of ureteric calculi. The aim of this study is to compare the use of Ho: YAG and pneumatic lithotripsy in the treatment of ureteric stones in children in our center.
Materials and methods
This is a prospective study that included 100 patients presenting with ureteric stones for the period from March 2020 to April 2022. The patients were randomized into two groups; group I included 49 patients with ureteric stones who were treated with means of Ho: YAG laser lithotripsy and group II included 51 patients with ureteric stones who were treated with of pneumatic lithotripsy. The outcome of the study was to evaluate the success of fragmentation and development of complications. Statistical analysis was achieved by chi square test and t test was used with a p value of less than 0.05 was considered as significant.
Results
Fifty seven stones were treated by laser while 50 stones treated by pneumatic lithotripsy. The success rate of fragmentation was higher in the laser group with a significant difference (P value 0.032).The study showed a lower rate of complications among the patients treated with laser lithotripter.
Conclusion
Laser lithotripsy is an effective and safe method for treating ureteric stones in children. It looks that it is more effective in stone fragmentation and having less complication rate than pneumatic lithotripsy.
Expression of Trx-1, HIF-1α and their associations with clinicopathological parameters in gastric cancer
Authors: Niu Guangcai , Ma Xiangdong
Published: March 2023

Background Although it is only a small redox protein, Thioredoxin-1 (Trx-1) can have a significant impact in many biological processes. In recent years, studies on the increased Trx-1 expression in different solid tumors have gradually increased, but its clinical and diagnostic significance in gastric cancer (GC) have not been confirmed. HIF-1α (Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α) plays an active role in many tumors’ metabolism, while the relevance between its expression levels and clinical value in GC remains to be investigated. Methods: Western blot (WB) and quantitative PCR (qPCR) were used to detect HIF-1α and Trx-1 mRNA and protein level in 20 freshly frozen GC and corresponding normal-tissues. In addition, the protein level of Trx-1 and HIF-1α in 162 GC were determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) test. The relevance between HIF-1α and Trx-1 expression and the clinicopathological characteristics in GC was assessed as well. And Cox proportional risk model was applied to determine independent prognostic indicators. Results: When HIF-1α level increased, the Trx-1 mRNA and protein levels increased obviously in GC tissues, and they both were related to a bad prognosis (P < 0.001). There was an obvious positive relevance (r = 0.578, P = 0.000) between Trx-1 and HIF-1α expressions. Through multivariate analysis, for GC prognosis, Borrmann type, Trx-1 and HIF-1α were independent predictors (P < 0.001). Conclusion For GC patients, both Trx-1 and HIF-1α may be prospective prognostic indicators and therapeutic target.
Willingness to Pay for Forest Conservation: An Empirical Investigation in Simlipal Forest
Authors: Saha Debolina , Agarwalla Shradha
Published: March 2023

The use and non-use values of environmental goods and services are often discussed in literature. This study shows suitability of using contingent valuation method (CVM) in forestry analysis, and applies both closed-ended and open-ended bidding formats to determine the willingness to pay of forest conservation cum non-use value of Simlipal forest in India, from the perspective of forest dwellers. Since the use value is market determined and non-use values go beyond market mechanism, this type of valuation exercise keeps relevance in natural resource conservation and management. Findings of the study clearly highlight eagerness of forest dwellers in natural resource preservation so as to enjoy its benefits in a sustainable manner. Analysis of the key factors affecting the valuation result recommends that development planning should be oriented towards reducing vulnerability of forest dwellers’ life which arises mainly due to miserable economic conditions in the absence of proper livelihoods. Though the forest dwellers get provisioning services from forests, they are also aware of the role of forest in supporting and regulating environmental balance. Hence the study is suggestive of the fact that government’s incentive-sharing mechanism within the ambit of existing participatory forest management system should need corrective measures so that the local communities can derive adequate economic benefits from it for their sustenance, which eventually would reduce forest dependence and ensure ecological integrity.
JEL Classification: A14, C50, C81, I3, Q2, Q51
Influence of electric field on IgG positioning and its immobilization for solid immunosensing substrates
Authors: Diyya Srujana
Published: March 2023

Most of the proteins are polar by their structural configuration, their stereochemistry entails overall charge of the molecule. In this study, Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is evaluated for its dipolar nature. An exclusive immunoassay pattern is designed to validate the idea by controlling the IgG orientation with external application of the electric field (EF). It includes mathematical estimations of the torque produced and the EF strength required to orient a single IgG molecule in normal room temperatures.In current pandemic scenario, the necessity of tests that provide clinical analysis of an individual is inevitable; thereby the use of immunoassay based rapid invitro diagnostic (IVD) test devices have become the most sort after point of care devices. The device configured in this study also explains the IgG orientation and immobilization post influence of EF in two dimensional geometry of flowchannel; and how it provides a platform for detection of the analytes with higher sensitivity. Therefore, this is also an attempt towards miniaturization of biosensor and to improve the signal intensity while optimizing the signal to noise ratio (SNR). Imparting qualities that suffice a stable, robust, portable sensing platform for a biosensor remains an added objective of this research.
Effect of papillary muscle and trabeculae on left ventricular function analysis via computed tomography
Authors: Kim Minji , Ha Taeyang , You Seulgi , Kim Tae Hee , Kang Doo Kyoung
Published: March 2023

Deciding whether to include or exclude the papillary muscles and trabeculae to blood pool is essential, because quantifications of left ventricular (LV) functional parameters and myocardial mass are significantly affected. As a result, such inclusion or exclusion might produce different indices for diagnosis and therapy. Using cardiac CT, we obtained standard values of the portion of papillary muscle and trabeculae in normal adults, and to find out how the inclusion or exclusion of papillary muscle and trabeculae affect LV functional parameters depending on the patient group. Excluding the papillary muscles from the LV mass results in easier automated contour detection using CT. The percentage portions of papillary muscle and trabeculae to LV end-diastolic volume (EDV) and LV mass (LVM) were 11.9 ± 5.6% and 20.2 ± 4.3%, respectively, significantly affecting disease diagnosis. Therefore, imaging should be consistent at follow-up and include or exclude the papillary muscles and trabeculae to avoid introducing significant differences between measurements.
Magnetic and Quantum Flux Fields with Potential in a Cosmic Dislocation and Thermo-Magnetic Properties
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: March 2023

In this work, the quantum dynamics of charge particles interacting with anharmonic oscillator potential in the presence of magnetic and quantum flux fields in a cosmic dislocation are investigated. In fact, it is shown that the energy levels and wave function are influenced by a cosmic dislocation and gets modified. In addition, the eigenvalue solution are modified by the magnetic and quantum flux fields compared to the flat space result with this potential. Afterwards, we utilize this eigenvalue solution to molecular potential models (harmonic oscillator, pseudoharmonic, Coulomb potentials) and presented the eigenvalue solutions. Finally, we study the thermodynamic properties and magnetic properties of the quantum system at finite temperature T ≠ 0 and calculate the partition function and other functions, such as Helmholtz free energy, mean energy, specific heat capacity, entropy, and the persistent currents and analyze the effect of cosmic dislocation and external fields with this potential.
PACS 03.65.Pm · 03.65.Ge · 98.80.Cq · 02.30.Gp · 05.70.C
Forensic DNA Phenotyping: a review on SNP panels, genotyping techniques, and prediction models
Authors: Ortuño Nuria Terrado , May Patrick
Published: March 2023

In the past few years, forensic DNA phenotyping (FDP) has attracted a strong interest in the forensic research. Among the increasing publications, many have focused on testing the available panels to infer biogeographical ancestry (BGA) on less represented populations and understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying externally visible characteristics (EVC). However, there are currently no publications that gather all the existing panels limited to FDP and discuss the main technical limitations of the technique. In this review, we performed a bibliographic search in Scopus database of FDP-related literature, which resulted in a total of 48, 43 and 15 panels for BGA, EVC and both BGA and EVC inference, respectively. Here we provide a list of commercial and non-commercial FDP panels and the FDP limitations regarding the lack of harmonization in terms of terminology (i.e., categorization and measurement of traits) and reporting, the lack of genetic knowledge and environment influence to select markers and develop panels, and the debate surrounding the selection of genotyping technologies and prediction models and algorithms. In conclusion, this review aims to be an updated guide and to present an overview of the current FDP-related literature.
Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome and Dental Features: a Case Report
Authors: Longo Bruna Cristina , Turcatto Rafael  Chimiloski , Rangel Ana Lúcia Carrinho Ayroza , Amorin Elaine Manoela Porto , Davidoff Denise Cesar de Oliveira , Hoshi Adriano Tomio , Tomasin Maria de Fátima , Hirata Francielle Carneiro , Souza Maria Daniela Basso de
Published: March 2023

Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome (BWS) is characterized by a disorder on chromosome 11p15, whose loci have growth-regulating genes. Among the numerous clinical features such anterior abdominal wall defects, omphalocele and genital abnormalities, the most prevalent is macroglossia, which can lead to disturbances in craniofacial growth. This report brings a case of a 9-year-old male child with the syndrome treated at the School of Dentistry, State University of Western Paraná, Brazil. It was suggested that observed dental abnormalities, along with the commonly features described in the literature, may be a part of the broad spectrum of the syndrome.
Conhecimento de Pacientes em Tratamento Oncológico sobre Saúde Bucal
Authors: Resende Leonardo Diniz , Maia Gabriel Rodrigues , Galhardo Luciana Freitas , Kim Yeon Jung , Pallos Debora
Published: March 2023

Introdução: Pacientes em tratamento oncológico estão sujeitos a desenvolver complicações bucais, que comprometem a integridade e função da cavidade oral. Isso se deve ao fato de que a destruição causada pela terapia antitumoral (quimioterapia e radioterapia) não se limita apenas as células neoplásicas, ela acomete também células normais, principalmente as que estão em constante renovação. As principais complicações causadas pelo tratamento oncológico na cavidade bucal são: mucosite, xerostomia, hemorragias gengivais, perda de paladar, trismo e osteorradionecrose. Objetivo: Avaliar por meio de um questionário, o nível de informação acerca de saúde bucal de pacientes portadores de neoplasias. Metodologia: Foram entrevistados 100 pacientes, atendidos no ambulatório de oncologia do Hospital Regional do Vale do Paraíba. Resultados: Ao serem questionados sobre a última consulta odontológica, menos da metade (45%) alegaram ter ido nos últimos 12 meses, 42% usavam como artifícios para a higienização somente escova e pasta, 51% acreditavam que a quimioterapia não teria efeito algum a cavidade bucal. Conclusão: O conhecimento dos pacientes em tratamento oncológico sobre saúde bucal ainda é deficiente e existe falta de instrução e informação quanto à higiene bucal e acompanhamento do cirurgião-dentista ao paciente oncológico.
Parcerias público privadas: construindo relações entre sua governança e custos de transação
Authors: Thamer Rogerio , Ogasavara Mario Henrique
Published: March 2023

As Parcerias Público-Privadas (PPPs) são arranjos colaborativos entre governos e entes privados que visam maior eficiência na entrega de serviços públicos. Com a sua utilização cada vez mais frequente, as PPPs podem enfrentar custos de transação que prejudiquem os seus resultados sociais e financeiros. O objetivo desse trabalho é avaliar a adoção de elementos específicos de governança em contratos de Parcerias Público-Privada (ex-ante) e o seu impacto na redução dos custos de transação no decorrer desses contratos (ex-post). A partir de uma revisão de literatura, essa pesquisa apresenta proposições que relacionam mecanismos de governança definidos em contrato com os custos de transação que afetam negativamente essas parcerias. Como contribuição é proposto um framework que leva em conta os principais stakeholders envolvidos e ressalta a importância da padronização de determinados elementos nos contratos de parceria. Dessa forma, é possível alcançar um alinhamento entre as estruturas de governança e as diferentes características das transações no decorrer das PPPs, auxiliando gestores públicos e privados responsáveis pela definição desses contratos.
Pesantren and madrasa-based digital literacy practices: The case of the Darunnajah Islamic Boarding School, Jakarta
Authors: Darajat Deden Mauli , Rosyidin Iding , Fahrudin Dedi
Published: March 2023

Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) and madrasas have their own tradition of implementing digital literacy. This article aims to answer how digital literacy is practiced in Darunajah Islamic boarding schools? The method used in this study is a participatory method that involves research subjects in the research process. There are three digital literacy treatments given to subjects, namely content creator training, video making training, and Islamic journalism training. The results show that the students who are the subject of the research have the ability to become content creators, can produce videos, and understand journalistic work. The students carry out these three aspects based on the moral values of the pesantren. In addition, the students have the ability to read and understand digital media. One of the emphasis in digital literacy is on hoax news. As many as 75% of digital literacy participants stated that if they get news, they will check the truth. Uniquely, the santri emphasize the values and traditions of the pesantren in showing literate behavior. Thus, this study can contribute to the development of digital literacy based on Islamic boarding schools' values.***Pesantren dan madrasah memiliki tradisi sendiri dalam menerapkan literasi digital. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menjawab bagaimana praktik literasi digital di pesantren Darunajah? Metode yang digunakan dalam kajian ini adalah metode partisipatif dengan melibatkan subjek penelitian dalam proses penelitian. Terdapat tiga treatment literasi digital yang diberikan kepada subjek yaitu pelatihan content creator, pelatihan pembuatan video, dan pelatihan jurnalistik Islam. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa santri yang menjadi subjek penelitian memiliki kemampuan untuk menjadi konten creator, dapat memproduksi video, dan memahami kerja jurnalistik. Para santri melakukan ketiga aspek tersebut berbasis pada nilai moral pesantren. Selain itu, para santri memiliki kemampuan membaca dan memahami media digital. Salah satu penekanan dalam literasi digital adalah tentang berita hoaks. Sebanyak 75% peserta literasi digital menyatakan bahwa jika mereka mendapatkan berita maka mereka akan mengecek kebenarannya. Uniknya para santri menekankan nilai-nilai dan tradisi pesantren dalam menunjukkan perilaku literate. Dengan demikian, studi ini dapat berkontribusi bagi pengembangan literasi digital yang berbasis pada nilai-nilai pesantren.
Construction and empirical research of the evaluation index system of environmental protection enterprises’ competitiveness based on the Delphi and AHP methods
Authors: Wu Huichao , Li Chenguang , Liu Zhen , Guo Yingzi , Li Yong , Hou Xiaodong , Li Yuanyuan , Zhao Shasha , Li Fengmin
Published: March 2023

The environmental protection industry has become an important support entity for the construction of ecological civilization and economic growth in China. However, there is little research on the competitiveness of environmental protection enterprises (EPEs). The construction of a set of scientific, comprehensive, practical, qualitative, and quantitative evaluation index systems is an important prerequisite for the sustainable and healthy development of the industry. Based on the literature analysis, semi-structured interviews with experts, and the Delphi method, the evaluation indicators for the competitiveness of EPEs were determined. Qualitatively, the evaluation index system of the competitiveness of EPEs contained 5 primary indicators, 12 secondary indicators, and 39 tertiary indicators. The analytic hierarchy process was used to determine the weights of indicators at each level. The primary indicators in order of weighting were organizational management capability, business environment, financial capability, innovation capability, and social responsibility, with corresponding weights of 26.13, 24.82, 21.76, 19.60, and 7.68%, respectively. Eight A-share listed EPEs in the water sector were selected for competitive evaluation. The evaluation index system of EPEs' competitiveness, being scientific-practical, combined, and quantitative, was constructed to provide a reference for the comprehensive evaluation of enterprises and the sustainable and healthy development of the industry.
Computational Analysis to Predict Drug Targets for the Therapeutic
Management of Mycobacterium avium sub. Paratuberculosis
Authors: Mohinani Taruna , Saxena Aditya , Singh Shoor Vir
Published: March 2023

Background:

Mycobacterium avium sp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is a pathogen, which
causes paratuberculosis in animals; it has also been found to be associated with a number of autoimmune
disorders in humans. The emergence of drug resistance has also been found in this bacillus
during disease management.

Objective:

The present study’s focus was to identify potential therapeutic targets for the therapeutic
management of Mycobacterium avium sp. paratuberculosis infection by in silico analysis.

Methods:

Differentially-expressed genes (DEGs) can be good drug targets, which can be identified
from microarray studies. We used gene expression profile GSE43645 to identify differentiallyexpressed
genes. An integrated network of upregulated DEGs was constructed with the STRING database
and the constructed network was analyzed and visualized by Cytoscape. Clusters in the proteinprotein
interaction (PPI) network were identified by the Cytoscape app ClusterViz. MAP proteins predicted
in clusters were analyzed for their non-homology with the human proteins, and homologous
proteins were excluded. Essential proteins and cellular localization analysis and the physicochemical
characteristics prediction were also done. Finally, the druggability of the target proteins and drugs that
can block the targets was predicted using the DrugBank database and confirmed by molecular docking.
Structural prediction and verification of drug target proteins were also carried out.

Results:

Two drug targets, MAP_1210 (inhA) and MAP_3961 (aceA), encoding enoyl acyl carrier
protein reductase and isocitrate lyase enzymes, respectively, were finally predicted as potential drug
targets.

Conclusion:

Both of these proteins have been predicted as drug targets in other mycobacterial species
also, supporting our results. However, further experiments are required to confirm these results.