bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression and clinical significance of Ki-67 and P16 after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Wu Jialin , Wang Rong , Chen Wanli , Wu Yingyu , Xiao Lin
Published: March 2023

Objective
To investigate the relationship between Ki-67 and P16 expression levels after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of patients with locally advanced cervical cancer.
Methods
Patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with radical hysterectomy in stage IB2 and IIA2 (FIGO 2009) at the First Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between January 2015 and December 2019 were retrospectively collected to correlate postoperative ki-67 and P16 expression levels with clinicopathological factors, and the optimal threshold for predicting recurrence was analyzed using ROC curves for the Ki67 index and univariate and multifactorial Cox regression analysis for the association between clinicopathological features including ki-67 and P16 and recurrence-free survival of the disease.
Results
A total of 334 patients had a median Ki-67 index of 60% (0–90%), with 303 (90.7%) positive and 31 (9.3%) negative P16 expressions; The cut-off value of ki-67 for determining patient recurrence was 67.5% according to the Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) (ROC curve) analysis; in multifactorial Cox analysis, lymphatic vascular space (p = 0.003) and ki-67 index (p = 0.005) increased the risk of tumor recurrence and were independent prognostic factors for cervical cancer recurrence, while the expression of P16 levels was not statistically significant (p = 0.097 OR = 0.319), and patients with cervical cancer in the high Ki-67 expression group (Ki-67 ≥ 67.5%) had lower recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) than those in the low Ki-67 expression group (Ki-67 < 67.5%) (p = 0.001, p = 0.036).
Conclusion
The expression levels of ki-67 and P16 after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer correlated with tumor differentiation; ki-67 values of 67.5% predicted the risk of recurrence in patients with stage IB2 and IIA2. High expression of ki-67 (Ki-67 ≥ 67.5%) may indicate poorer recurrence-free survival and overall survival, positive expression of P16 was not significantly associated with the prognosis of patients with stage IB2 and IIA2 cervical cancer.
Integration of microbattery with thin-film electronics for constructing an integrated and transparent microsystem based on InGaZnO
Authors: Jia Bin , Zhang Chao , Liu Min , Li Zhen , Wang Jian , Zhong Li , Han Chuan Yu , Qin Ming , Huang Xiaodong
Published: March 2023

Transparent electronics hold promising applications in emerging consumer electronics. A full integration of miniaturized transparent energy device (lithium-ion battery, LIB), electronic device (thin-film transistor, TFT)) and sensing device (photodetector, PD) to form a monolithic integrated microsystem greatly enhances the functions of transparent electronics. However, an integrated transparent microsystem including all the above-mentioned devices has not been realized. In this work, InGaZnO (IGZO) is explored to prepare the above devices and microsystem due to its multifunctional and outstanding properties. A transparent LIB with IGZO as the anode is first proposed as the on-chip power source. Then, TFT with IGZO as the channel and PD with IGZO as the photosensitive are also prepared on the same substrate for constructing an integrated transparent microsystem. Each device displays acceptable performance, including that: LIB shows a specific capacity of 9.8 µAh cm-2; TFT displays a carrier mobility of 3.3 cm2 V-1 s-1; PD shows a responsivity of 0.35 A W-1. Moreover, AC signals can be successfully charged into LIB by using TFT as the on-chip rectifier and also the PD works well by using the charged LIB as the on-chip power, demonstrating collaborative capabilities of each device to achieve systematical function.
Anemia prevalence and its predictors among children under-five years in Ghana. A multilevel analysis of the 2019 Ghana malaria indicator survey
Authors: Aheto Justice Moses K. , Alhassan Yakubu , Puplampu Adikwor Ewoenam , Boglo Julius Kuenyegbe , Sedzro Kojo Mensah
Published: March 2023

Despite the implementation of anemia control interventions in Ghana, prevalence of anemia is still high in children under-five years although it has reduced by 24% between 2008 and 2019. Further reducing the prevalence of anemia requires identifying and targeting critical risk factors associated to anemia. This study seeks to identify predictors of anemia among children under-five years in Ghana. Data from 2019 Ghana MIS was analyzed using both fixed and random effect logistic regression models. Among the 2434 children under-five years, 54% (95% CI 52.0, 57.0) of them were anemic. In the multivariable multilevel model, the risk of anemia was found to be higher in younger children, children who had malaria, children whose mothers were not covered for health insurance, adolescent mothers’, non-Christian mothers and poorer households. Significant unobserved community level effects in anemia prevalence were observed. We observed high prevalence of anemia in children under-five and critical risk factors at the child, household, and community levels in this population of children. Multifaceted and targeted approaches are needed to help reduce the anemia prevalence in this setting so as to achieve multiple SDGs which are related to risk and prevalence of anemia by 2030.
Improved equality of human exposure to greenspace in the 21st century urbanization
Authors: Wu Shengbiao , Chen Bin , Webster Chris , Xu Bing , Gong Peng
Published: March 2023

Greenspace plays a crucial role in urban ecosystems and has been recognized as a key factor in promoting sustainable and healthy city development. Recent studies have revealed a growing concern about urban greenspace exposure inequality; however, the extent to which urbanization affects human exposure to greenspace and associated inequalities over time remains unclear. Here, we incorporate a Landsat-based 30-meter time-series greenspace mapping and a population-weighted exposure framework to quantify the changes in human exposure to greenspace for 1028 global cities between 2000–2018. Results show a substantial increase in physical greenspace coverage and an improvement in human exposure to urban greenspace, leading to a reduction in greenspace exposure inequality over the past two decades. Nevertheless, we observe a contrasting difference in the rate of reduction in greenspace exposure inequality between cities in the Global South and North, with a faster rate of reduction in the Global South, nearly four times that of the Global North. These findings provide valuable insights into the impact of urbanization on urban nature and environmental inequality change and can inform future city greening efforts.
Thermomechanical Response of Additively Manufactured Inconel 718 during Hot Torsion Tests
Authors: Yadav pinku , Rigo Olivier , Arvieu Corinne , Lacoste Eric
Published: March 2023

In this study, we have investigated the microstructural changes during deformation of the SLM samples printed Inconel 718 using hot torsion tests. Prior to thermomechanical testing, the as-built samples are homogenized at 850°C for 2 h in Ar atmosphere followed by air cooling. Hot torsion tests are performed at temperatures of 850, 1000 and 1100°C, and at strain rates of 0.01, 0.1 and 1 s− 1. It is observed that the dynamic recrystallization mechanism progresses with the evolution of annealing twins which is quantified by the increase in % of annealing twins during thermomechanical deformation. It is observed that samples deformed at 850°C for strain rates of 0.01 and 0.1 s− 1 shows brittle like fracture and no dynamic recrystallization. However, the samples deformed at 1000 and 1100°C for strain rates of 0.01, 0.1 and 1 s− 1 shows typical stress strain curves obtained for dynamic recrystallization. It is noted that the peak stress decreases with an increase in the temperature and increases with an increase in the strain rate. Alongside, an activation energy (Q) of 379.62 KJ/mol for SLMed Inconel 718 samples is calculated which agrees with the reported values in the literature for Hot compression tests.
The Planetary Child Health and Enterics Observatory (Plan-EO): a Protocol for an Interdisciplinary Research Initiative and Web-Based Dashboard for Mapping Enteric Infectious Diseases and their Risk Factors and Interventions in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Colston Josh M. , Chernyavskiy Pavel , Gardner Lauren , Fang Bin , Houpt Eric , Swarup Samarth , Badr Hamada , Zaitchik Benjamin , Lakshmi Venkataraman , Kosek Margaret
Published: March 2023

Background: Diarrhea remains a leading cause of childhood illness throughout the world and is caused by various species of ecologically sensitive pathogens. The emerging Planetary Health movement emphasizes the interdependence of human health with natural systems, and much of its focus has been on infectious diseases and their interactions with environmental and human processes. Meanwhile, the era of big data has engendered a public appetite for interactive web-based dashboards for infectious diseases. However, enteric infectious diseases have been largely overlooked by these developments.
Methods: The Planetary Child Health and Enterics Observatory (Plan-EO) is a new initiative that builds on existing partnerships between epidemiologists, climatologists, bioinformaticians, and hydrologists as well as investigators in numerous low- and middle-income countries. Its objective is to provide the research and stakeholder community with an evidence base for the geographical targeting of enteropathogen-specific child health interventions such as novel vaccines. The initiative will produce, curate, and disseminate spatial data products relating to the distribution of enteric pathogens and their environmental and sociodemographic determinants.
Discussion: To date Plan-EO has compiled data from 23 studies comprising almost 80,000 stool samples from 35,000 children aged 0 – 59 months at 80 sites in 24 countries and georeferenced to over 9,000 unique locations, with DUAs for two further studies under negotiation. An initial analysis of Shigella has been published and has yielded detailed prediction maps.Results like these can be used to identify and target priority populations living in transmission hotspots and to provide an urgently needed evidence base for decision-making, scenario-planning.
Study registration: PROSPERO protocol #CRD42023384709
Developing novel indanone-chalcone hybrids bearing ester group with potential anti-Alzheimer effects by combining molecular hybridization and bioisosteric replacement drug design approaches
Authors: Azimian Fereshteh , Shahrivar-Gargari Mohammad , vahedpour Teymour , Hemmati Salar , Dastmalchi Mahrokh , Küçükkılınç Tuba Tüylü , Dastmalchi Siavoush
Published: March 2023

Molecular hybridization and bioisosteric replacement approaches were used to design novel agents with potential use for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Derivatives containing indanone-chalcone core structure bearing ester group were designed and synthesized. In vitro activities of all target compounds against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were evaluated. The most active compound 8e exhibited anticholinesterase inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 18.7 µM against AChE while the reference drug donepezil (IC50 = 0.0.36 µM on AChE) was used as a control. Also, Aβ1–40 aggregation inhibitory activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated, and the results showed that compound 8h demonstrates the highest Aβ1–40 aggregation inhibition (81.6%). The results of docking studies revealed that some of compounds fits well into the binding site of AChE. Collectively, this study provide insight for design of small molecules including ester groups to target acetyl choline esterase for further study in the process of design and development of active compounds for AD.
Mitogen activated protein kinase phosphatase 5 alleviates liver ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting TAK1/JNK/p38 pathway
Authors: Yu Qiwen , Chen Sanyang , Li Jiye , Tang Hongwei , Shi Jihua , Guo Wenzhi , Zhang Shuijun
Published: March 2023

MKP5 is a member of the MKP family and has been implicated in diverse biological and pathological conditions. However, it is unknown what role MKP5 plays in liver ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. This study aimed to investigate the role of MKP5 in liver I/R injury. In the present study, we used MKP5 global knockout (KO) and MKP5 overexpressing mice to establish a liver I/R injury model in vivo, and we used MKP5 knockdown or MKP5 overexpressing HepG2 cells to establish a hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) model in vitro. In this study we demonstrated that MKP5 expression was significantly down-regulated in liver tissue of mice after liver I/R injury and HepG2 cells subjected to H/R insult. MKP5 knockdown significantly increased liver injury, as demonstrated by elevated serum transaminases, hepatocyte necrosis, infiltrating inflammatory cells, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, apoptosis, ROS production, MDA contents, decreased cellular viability, SOD and GSH activities in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, MKP5 overexpression significantly attenuated liver and cell injury in our models. Furthermore, we showed that MKP5 exerted its protective effect by inhibiting c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) activity, and its action was dependent on Transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) activity. In addition, inhibition of TAK1 remarkably abolished the damaging effect result from MKP5 knockdown in cell H/R injury in vitro. According to our results, MKP5 inhibited the TAK1/JNK/p38 pathway to protect liver from injury induced by I/R. Our study identifies a novel target for liver I/R injury diagnosis and treatment.
DNA methylation in the wild: epigenetic transgenerational inheritance can mediate adaptation in clones of wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca)
Authors: Sammarco Iris , Rodríguez Bárbara Díez , Galanti Dario , Nunn Adam , Becker Claude , Bossdorf Oliver , Münzbergová Zuzana , Latzel Vít
Published: March 2023

Due to the accelerating climate change, it is crucial to understand how plants adapt to rapid environmental changes. Such adaptation may be mediated by epigenetic mechanisms like DNA methylation, which could heritably alter phenotypes without changing the DNA sequence, especially across clonal generations. However, we are still missing robust evidence of the adaptive potential of DNA methylation in wild clonal populations.
Here, we studied the methylome of Fragaria vesca, a predominantly clonally reproducing herb. We examined samples from 21 natural populations across three climatically distinct geographic regions, as well as clones of the same individuals grown in a common garden. We found that inherited epigenetic variation was partly associated with climate of origin, and that a subset of these epigenetic changes affected gene expression. Our results indicate that DNA methylation variation in the wild is common and may contribute to adaptation of clonal plant populations.
Evolution mechanism of diagenesis of deep sag area in the central Fault basin—A case study of the Wuerhe Formation of the Dongdaohaizi sag in the Junggar basin, Northwest China
Authors: Wang Jinkai , Wu Rui , Xie Jun
Published: March 2023

The Junggar basin is a typical terrestrial fault basin. The stratum in the central area is deeply buried and its sedimentary and rock types are diverse. Its diagenesis is complex and the evolution law of reservoir pores is challenging to characterize, which is not conducive to oil and gas exploration in this region. In this paper, the Dongdaohaizi sag in the central deep basin was taken as an example to be detailed on its sedimentary facies, diagenesis, and micropore structure, revealing the diagenesis sequence and pore evolution law of the deep buried reservoir. First, the sedimentary facies type of the focus stratum (Wuerhe Formation) is assigned to the fan delta, its source is from the northwest, and the rock type is conglomerate, pebbly sandstone, sandstone, and siltstone. The debris content is high among the clastic grains and can reach 40%, showing near-source transport characteristics. Second, the primary diagenesis types and evolution sequence of the Wuerhe Formation is cleared according to experiment data, and the influence degree of the compassion, cementation, and dissolution of the target reservoir rock is clarified. Finally, the sandstone pore evolution model is established, the diagenesis facies is classified, the contribution degree of the unstable clasts and cemented minerals to the secondary pore is determined, and the comprehensive factors with the greatest impact on the late densification of the reservoir are clarified. The diagenesis and pore evolution of the deep rocks in the deep central sag are revealed.
Decision support system tool of the “Electronic-Implementation of Maternal Death/Mortality Review (E-MPATHY)” for formulating evidence-based recommendations with the learning environment at the district level: Development, Validation, Reliability, and Acceptability
Authors: Cahyanti Ratnasari D. , Widyawati Widyawati , Hakimi Mohammad
Published: March 2023

Background: Maternal Death Review (MDR), the cornerstone of Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR), provides evidence-based recommendations for reducing maternal death. A key difficulty in conducting MDR is the existence of a blaming culture leading to inaccuracy of maternal death classification and delays for policy-making. To support the conducive learning environment at local levels, scientific evidence and clinical standards as the main structure in MDR are required. However, an integrated decision support system tool is absent. This study reports the development, validation, reliability, and acceptability of a decision support system tool to formulate evidence-based recommendations for a supportive learning environment of MDR at district levels.
Methods: Tool development comprised four steps: needs assessment, face and content validity, reliability, and acceptability assessment. The kappa (κ) value was calculated to assess inter-observer reliability in examining 113 maternal mortalities by the district and province review teams in Central Java, Indonesia. Reviewers’ acceptability was identified with observations during the review and analysis applying the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability.
Results: The needs assessment resulted in: 1) naming the tool as the “Electronic Implementation of Maternal Death/Mortality Review” (E-MPATHY) reflecting a supportive learning environment; 2) a conceptual structure of a solution-based approach in each pregnancy period with integrated scientific evidence and the 3-delays model as a flow framework to assign the underlying cause based on the International Classification of Diseases-Maternal Mortality (ICD-MM), the contributing events, and recommendations. The E-MPATHY was found to be valid (CVI=1) and readable. An almost perfect agreement was found between the causes of maternal death assigned by the district and province reviewers using the ICD-MM, κ=0.86 (95%CI:0.76-0.96); p<0.001. In the 3-delays assessment, the highest agreement was found in the postpartum period (κ=0.58, 95%CI:0.42-0.74; p<0.001) with a substantial value (κ=0.61, 95%CI:0.46-0.75; p<0.001) in the third phase delay. The reviewer’s acceptability highlighted the benefits of reviewing using scientific evidence and providing encouragement for positive attitudes toward learning in their daily practices.
Conclusion: The E-MPATHY performs as a useful tool to guide formulating evidence-based recommendations in a standardized way. The tool can support direct learning and be potentially applied to institutionalizedworkable district MDR.
In vitro studies of factors affecting debridement of dental implants by tricalcium phosphate powder abrasive treatment
Authors: Chen I-Cheng , Su Chen-Ying , Tu Jia-Jun , Kao Daniel Wenkai , Fang Hsu-Wei
Published: March 2023

Peri-implantitis is a common complication characterized by inflammation in tissues with plaque accumulation around dental implants, causing dental implantation failures. Among current managements, air flow abrasive treatment was found to be efficient for the debridement of implant surfaces, however, little information is understood about factors affecting cleaning capacity. In particular, this study examined the cleaning capacity of air powder abrasive (APA) treatment with β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) powder systematically by utilizing various powder jetting strength and different particle sizes. β-TCP powder was prepared in three sizes (S, M and L) and strength of different powder setting (low, medium, high) was estimated. The cleaning capacity was determined by quantifying the ink removal simulating biofilm removal from the implant surfaces. In the light of these systematical comparisons, it can be concluded that complete implant surface cleaning could be achieved by higher jetting strength of APA treatment with smaller β-TCP particles. Moreover, the amount of consumed powder seemed critical to the cleaning efficiency. Implant surfaces and sandblast and acid etching (SLA) structure of titanium discs were altered in all tested groups. The systematically analyzed outcomes in this study might provide an insight into the development of potential strategies to treat peri-implant diseases.
The intrapartum strategy for thoracoscopic repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia(CDH): five cases report and literature review
Authors: Yu Leiyuan , Sun Yina , Chen Jiamin , Yang Mengmeng , Jiang Ying , Dong Tian , Zhao Baihui , Lv Changcheng , Tan Zheng , Chen Yuan , Luo Qiong
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To introduce a new method of minimally invasive repair of Congenital diaphragmatic hernia intrapartum(CDH).
Methods: We present five CDH cases diagnosed prenatally. Each patient was evaluated by a multidisciplinary team and received thoracoscopic defect repair on placental support. The neonates were transferred to NICU for further treatment, and all cases were under follow-up.
Results: The patients enrolled were mild to moderate, with thoracic herniation of the liver occurring in one case. All five cases were repaired on placenta support. Maternal morbidity was reported in one case for acute pulmonary embolism (case 2), but no recorded case of maternal mortality. Postoperative neonatal death occurred in two cases (case 2,3), the remaining three neonates are under follow-up with a good prognosis.
Conclusion: The intrapartum thoracoscopic repair is feasible and safe for selected CDH cases.
Spatially-resolved single cell transcriptomics reveal a critical role for γδ T cells in the control of skin inflammation and subcutaneous adipose wasting during chronic Trypanosoma brucei infection
Authors: Quintana Juan , Sinton Matthew , Chandrasegaran Praveena , Lestari Agatha , Heslop Rhiannon , Cheaib Bachar , Ogunsola John , Ngoyi Dieudonne Mumba , Swar Nono Kuispond , Cooper Anneli , Coffelt Seth , MacLeod Annette
Published: March 2023

African trypanosome parasites colonise the skin in a process important for parasite transmission. However, how the skin responses to trypanosome infection remain unresolved. Here, using a combination of spatial and single cell transcriptomics, coupled with in vivo genetic models, we investigated the local immune response of the skin in a murine model of infection. First, we detected a significant expansion of IL-17A-producing γδT cells (primarily Vγ6+) in the infected murine skin compared to naïve controls that occur mainly in the subcutaneous adipose tissue. Second, interstitial preadipocytes located in the subcutaneous adipose tissue upregulate several genes involved in inflammation and antigen presentation, including T cell activation and survival. In silico cell-cell communication suggests that adipocytes trigger γδ T cell activation locally via Cd40, Il6, Il10, and Tnfsf18 signalling, amongst others. Third, mice deficient in IL-17A-producing γδ T cells show extensive inflammation, increased frequency of skin-resident IFNγ-producing CD8+ T cells and limited subcutaneous adipose tissue wasting compared to wild-type infected controls, independent of TH1 CD4+ T cells and parasite burden. Based on these observations, we proposed a model whereby adipocytes as well as Vγ6+ cells act concertedly in the subcutaneous adipose tissue to limit skin inflammation and tissue wasting. These studies shed light onto the mechanisms of γδ T cell-mediated immunity in the skin in the context of African trypanosome infection, as well as a potential role of immature and mature adipocytes as homeostatic regulators in the skin during chronic infection.
Inheritance Taxes and Human Capital Accumulation
Authors: Dudek Maciej , Kruszewski Robert , Kudła Janusz , Walczyk Konrad
Published: March 2023

The paper examines the relationship between inheritance taxation and human capital formation. We analyze the standard problem in three different settings and show that the results are sensitive to modeling specifications. The relation of human capital to physical capital and the accumulation rate of both types of capital may be affected by the inheritance tax or not, depending on the perspective of an agent. If human capital is intangible and proxied by wages, the inheritance tax on physical capital detrimentally impacts wages which may indirectly decrease human capital accumulation. If, on the other hand, human capital is purposefully formed by forward-looking economic agents, the rate of investment in human capital accumulation is not affected by the inheritance tax, but the ratio of human to physical capital in equilibrium is higher than it would be if the inheritance was not taxed. Finally, for short-term looking agents, the tax increases the rate of investment in human capital only if tax revenue is rebated to taxpayers. These results suggest that taxing inheritance, coupled with tax rebates, may act as an incentive to increase human capital accumulation.
JEL: E20, H21, H24, J24
Predictors and consequences of subclinical renal impairment in patients with vascular disease
Authors: Somkereki Cristina , Nicoară Tunde Renata , Oprica Mădălina , Demian Liliana , Scridon Alina
Published: March 2023

Background
Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is the most widely used biomarker of kidney function. However, measurement of biomarkers more sensitive than eGFR may be required to detect subtle renal changes and to identify additional predictors and consequences of kidney injury. In the present study, we aimed to identify predictors and consequences of subclinical renal impairment, as reflected by the levels of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and cystatin C.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed in 71 consecutive patients with vascular disease. Demographic and anthropometric data, medical history, and ongoing drug therapy were recorded for each patient. Total blood count, hemoglobin, plasma potassium, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, serum creatinine, uric acid, NGAL and cystatin C levels, and eGFR were evaluated in all patients. Potential predictors and consequences of increased NGAL and cystatin C levels were assessed.
Results
History of hypertension, diabetes, and ongoing diuretic therapy were the only independent predictors of decreased eGFR (all p < 0.01). Meanwhile, increased white blood cell count and diuretic usage were independently associated with higher NGAL and cystatin C levels, respectively, and increased uric acid levels were independently associated with higher levels of both biomarkers of kidney injury (all p < 0.05). At their turn, increased NGAL and cystatin C levels were independently associated with lower albumin and HDL-C levels, and increased cystatin C levels were also associated with higher serum potassium (all p < 0.05).
Conclusions
In this study, eGFR values were independently associated with widely known risk factors for impaired renal function. Meanwhile, NGAL and cystatin C evaluation identified more subtle hematologic and biochemical changes related to subclinical kidney injury. These data reinforce the role of NGAL and cystatin C as not only biomarkers of subclinical kidney injury, but also as predictors of subclinical kidney injury-related abnormalities.
Management of acral vitiligo using Narrow band UVB, microneedling with and without platelet rich plasma
Authors: Tawfik Yasmin M. , ELazim Nagwa E. Abd , Bakr Radwa M , Abdel-Khalek Lamiaa A , Gomaa Ahmed S.
Published: March 2023

Background: Acral vitiligo is usually more resistant to medical management due to minimal density of hair follicles and greater chance of repeated friction or trauma. Objective: To determine efficacy and safety of adding topical platelet rich plasma (PRP) to automated micro needling and narrow band ultra violet B (NB- UVB) in treatment of resistant acral vitiligo and to assess the best treated sites with this combination therapy.
Patients and methods: Forty-two patients with stable acral vitiligo were recruited. lesions at the hand were classified according to their sites into (Dorsum, periungual, knuckles and inversed knuckles)while lesions at the feet were classified into (Dorsum, lateral side and medial side of the feet). One side was treated with automated micro needling and topical PRP (group A) and the other side with automated micro needling only (group B) twice monthly for 3 months. Both sides received NB-UVB phototherapy twice weekly.
Results: One month after the last session, in both groups A and B, a statistically significant better percent of pigmentation was noticed at the dorsum of the hands 38.95 ± 39.81 and 42.11 ± 33.51 respectively followed by inverted knuckles 28.42 ± 37.01 and 25.53 ± 37.19 respectively , while no significant difference was noted in comparing both groups A and B either at the hands or the feet lesions, regarding the percent of regimentation, the percent of change in VASI, change in number of the lesions and color match.
Conclusion: Adding PRP to NB-UVB and micro needling has no significant advantage in treating patients with resistant acral vitiligo. The response to treatment is better in area with hair follicles as the dorsum of the hand and inverted knuckles, while areas over bony prominences (knuckles) and devoid of hair follicles (periungual) are resistant to this combination therapy.
El Barrancazo: a new locality of possible semi-aquatic turtle tracks from the Upper Triassic of Cortes de Pallás (Eastern Iberia)
Authors: Navarro Óscar , Moratalla Joaquín
Published: March 2023

This work describes the new vertebrate tracksite named El Barrancazo, located in Cortes de Pallás (Eastern Iberia). The footprints are presented as natural casts distributed in isolated blocks belonging to the Manuel Formation (K2, Keuper facies), deposited during the Carnian Humid Episode (Late Triassic). The blocks come from two beds of the same outcrop. The tracks are made up of sub-parallel digital impressions, displaying occasional curved traces, often without forming a complete outline, and showing a set of features such as lateral and posterior overhangs, longitudinal striations or digital reflectures, among others. These features, taken together with the sedimentological analysis carried out, suggest that animals moving in totally or partially buoyant conditions in a fluvial environment produced most of these tracks. The size and morphology of these paleoichnological impressions suggest that they were probably produced, in some cases, by turtles, adding to the understanding of the paleoenvironmental and paleofaunistic conditions of the Late Triassic of Iberia during the Carnian, a key period in the evolution of different groups of continental vertebrates. The area of Cortes de Pallás concentrates the largest number of vertebrate footprints from the Upper Triassic of Iberia, which allows, by means of the comparative study of the three sites described to date, the analysis of the interaction of the trackmaker organism, animal behavior and substrate in the resulting morphology of the tracks made under subaqueous conditions.
Evaluation of Indoor Air Quality by Indoor Environmental Index in Market Places in Istanbul/Türkiye during Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: GÜNEY Hakan , SAADA Bayan , SARI Bülent , KESKİNKAN Olcayto
Published: March 2023

This is the first study to evaluate the indoor air quality of markets using the “Indoor Environmental Index”. In the study, carbon dioxide (CO2), relative humidity, temperature, particulate matter, and total volatile organic compounds were measured as indoor air quality parameters in four different markets in Istanbul during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed and evaluated using IBM SPSS Statistics 22 program. While CO2, PM2.5, PM10, humidity, and temperature had a statistically significant difference in different markets, no statistically significant difference was found for NO2 and total volatile organic compounds (p > 0.05). Considering the different hours in a day, it was determined that there was a statistically significant difference for all parameters. The highest and strongest correlation between the parameters was found between PM2.5 and PM10 (r = 0.703, p < 0.01). The IEI values for 4 different markets in different time intervals in a day were found as 6.862, 6.775, 8.816, and 6.244, respectively. The highest and lowest Indoor Environmental Index values were calculated in market2 (7,525) and market4 (4,936), respectively. Indoor air quality parameters had an impact on the IEI results as they affected the pollution index and the discomfort index. As a result of the study, it was seen that the density of customers and products, the size of the closed area of the markets, and the capacity of ventilation equipment affect the indoor air quality. All these results were evaluated and suggestions were made about the visit times to the markets.
To evaluate the efficacy of Feracrylum as a haemostatic agent following minor oral surgery
Authors: Singh Heera , Khan Zaid Ali , Kishor Krishna , Singh Abhishek
Published: March 2023

Purpose- The purpose of this study was to evaluate the versatility of Feracrylum as a haemostatic agent following minor oral surgery, without altering the regimen of an anti-platelet drug. Method- The post-operative bleeding was assessed in 100 patients on anti-platelet drug following minor oral surgical procedure by comparing the Feracrylum group with the saline-soaked gauze as pressure pack. Result- In group 1, 100% of the patients has an ooze from the surgical site while group 2 only 18% of the patients had an ooze from the surgical site after 2 minutes and 5 minutes with the p-value of 0.012. In group 1 the bleeding was significant while in group 2 the bleeding was not significant at 24 hrs, 2nd and 3rd post-operative day with the p-value of 0.01 and 0.135 respectively. Conclusion- Feracrylum is an effective way to stop the bleeding locally following minor surgery in the oral cavity for patients taking anti-platelet drug with least absorption of the drug into systemic circulation.
Quantitative Assessment of Software Security by Quantum Technique Using Fuzzy TOPSIS
Authors: Nadeem Mohd. , Ahmad Masood , Ansar Syed Anas , Pathak Prabhash Chandra , Khan Raees Ahmad
Published: March 2023

Quantum computer development attracts the security experts of software. The rapid development of number of qubit in quantum computer makes the present security mechanism of software insecure. Software developers need to pay attention to the development of quantum computers in terms of software security. Software security evaluation focuses on the fundamental security features of software as well as the quantum enable security alternatives. The software security evaluation is the most crucial part of surveying, controlling, and administering security in order to further improve the properties of safety. It's crucial to understand that performing a security assessment early on in the development process can help you find bugs, vulnerabilities, faults, and attacks. In this quantitative study, the definition and use of the quantum computing security approach in software security will be covered. The cryptographic calculations had to secure our institutions based on computer and network. The Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Situation (Fuzzy-TOPSIS) is to quantitatively assess the rank of the quantum enable security alternatives with security factors. The Quantum Key Distribution, quantum technique of security has got the top priority in the estimation of software security during the era of quantum computer. The quantum mechanism of computing makes the classical computing insecure. The assessment of software security is tried to evaluate factors and its impact on alternatives mathematically.
Polymorphism of Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride and Crystal Structure Determination of the Most Stable Crystalline Form
Authors: Wu Dedong , Wu Branden , Wei Pingrong
Published: March 2023

Three crystalline forms of nicotinamide riboside chloride (NR-Cl), namely Form A, Form B and Form C, were prepared and characterized. Form A and Form B are true polymorphs of anhydrous forms, while Form C is a pseudo-polymorph of a methanolate solvate form. Physical stability relationship among these three crystalline forms was established, and the crystal structure of the most stable form, Form B, was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis.
Influence of Diamond Tool Quality on Surface Roughness and Methods of Improving Surface Roughness
Authors: Zhuang Guilin , Liu Hanzhong , Zong Wenjun , Cui Zhipeng
Published: March 2023

Spherical/aspherical mirrors are widely used in optical and imaging systems, but their reflectivity is influenced by the surface roughness values. In this paper, the influence of the quality of diamond tool on the surface roughness of workpiece is systematically studied. The quality of diamond tools can be divided into two categories: the waviness of tool tip and the quality of cutting edge of diamond tools. The full arc waviness of diamond tools is obtained by Gauss filtering method, and the evaluation accuracy is equivalent to that of commercial testing equipment. According to Hertz contact theory and three-dimensional topography of diamond cutting edge surface, the friction coefficient model between cutting edge and workpiece is established. According to the stress of the material, the relationship between the three-dimensional shape of the cutting edge and the elastic recovery is obtained. Passivating the cutting edge of the tool improves the quality of the cutting edge and finally improves the quality of the machined surface. In order to ensure the waviness of the tool tip arc, this paper puts forward a method to restrain the wear of diamond tools. In order to restrain tool wear, the combination of diamond tool crystal plane and diamond material were optimized in this paper. Through the above theoretical analysis and influence law, it can provide guidance for the subsequent high-quality machining of spherical/aspheric surfaces.
A Novel Radiographic Analysis System for Subaxial Cervical Spine Pedicle Screw Placement
Authors: Ding Baozhi , Zhou Tangjun , Ma Hui , Zhao Jie
Published: March 2023

Background
Precise pedicle screw placement of the subaxial cervical spine is difficult. Not every hospital is equipped with a guidance system that can provide effective help. Computed tomography (CT) scanning is almost a routine preoperative examination for cervical spine surgery in all hospitals. Appropriate measurement and analysis of the CT images could assist optimal cervical pedicle screw placement. The purpose of this study is to propose a new and universal method using computed tomography (CT) morphological parameters analysis to assist optimal cervical pedicle screw placement from C3 to C7.
Methods
A localization system with six parameters was designed based on preoperative CT reconstruction to guide subaxial cervical spine pedicle screw placement. The six parameters were distance from the starting point to the midline [D1], distance from the starting point to the lower edge of the inferior articular process [D2], transverse section angle [TSA], sagittal section angle [SSA], pedicle width [PW], and pedicle height [PH]. The six parameters were analyzed in 53 participants.
Results
Combining D1 and D2 could localize the entrance of the pedicle screw, and we concluded that D1 and TSA and D2 and SSA could be a new standard for determination of the transverse and sagittal orientation of the pedicle screw. The six parameters were closely related to the patient’s gender, height, and weight. PH and PW were linearly correlated and could guide selection of the appropriate pedicle screw. SSA was an independent parameter of the relevant vertebral body, and changes in SSA had nothing to do with the curvature or posture of the cervical spine.
Conclusions
Understanding and applying the six-parameter localization system are essential for achieving accurate and optimal pedicle screw placement in subaxial cervical spine, regardless of cervical sagittal alignment.
Monitoring of soil nutrient levels by an EC sensor during spring onion (Allium fistulosum) cultivation under different fertilizer treatment
Authors: Vyavahare Govind , Lee Yejin , Seok Yeong Ju , Kim Hanna , Sung Jwakyung , Park Jin Hee
Published: March 2023

Balanced nutrients are essential for healthy plant growth, but there is no sensor available to monitor essential nutrients such as N and K. Electrical conductivity (EC) is one of the key parameters that could be adopted to monitor these nutrient contents because soil EC is influenced by available nutrients. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to examine the effects of different basal fertilizers including inorganic, organic, and compost fertilizers, and the application ratio of basal and additional fertilizers on nutrient contents by EC sensor. The applied basal and additional fertilizer ratios were N 30:70, K 40:60, and N 20:80, K 20:80, respectively, for each fertilizer treatment. EC sensor value was positively associated with water content. Soil EC response increased with the application of inorganic fertilizer and fertigation and was positively correlated with soluble nutrients and exchangeable ammonium. The principal component analysis also determined that inorganic fertilizer was positively associated with sensor EC, soluble Na, Ca, Mg, and nitrate among the variables. This work suggested that soil available nutrients especially N can be monitored by an EC sensor which can be used to control soil nutrient status for better plant growth.
A novel oxidative stress-related gene signature to predict prognosis in cervical cancer
Authors: Wang Zhao , Feng Yue , Liu Xueting , Liu Yujie , Sun Di , Zhang Yunyan , Dong Kexian
Published: March 2023

Background Oxidative stress is closely correlated with tumor development and progression, which can act as a latent treatment target for cancer. The purpose of this study was to identified the oxidative stress-related gene (OSRG) profile of cervical cancer and established a novel prognostic prediction model.
Methods Differentially expressed OSRGs between cervical cancer and paired normal tissues were extracted from the GeneCards and GEPIA databases. Clinical information was collected from patients with cervical cancer in TCGA cohort. Univariate Cox analysis together with the LASSO algorithm were used to determine prognosis-related genes, construct an OSRG-signature, and derive risk scores. Kaplan–Meier (K-M) survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to verify the predictive ability of the risk scores. At the same time, the correlation between risk scores and tumor immune cell infiltration and chemosensitivity was observed.
Results An 10-OSRG signature was constructed. Patients with cervical cancer were categorized as high-risk or low-risk through the median risk score derived from the 10-OSRG signature. As shown by survival analysis, the median overall survival (OS) time of high-risk patients was significantly shorter than that of low-risk patients. The ROC curves also demonstrated the usefulness of the 10-OSRG signature for predicting the prognosis of cervical cancer patients. The risk scores derived from the 10-OSRG signature and 5 clinical variables were used to develop a nomogram, which can be used to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates in patients with cervical cancer. Immunological analysis suggested that the tumor killer immune cells in the low-risk group were higher than those in the high-risk group. The sensitivity of the two subgroups to various chemotherapy drugs were different.
Conclusion A novel 10-OSRG signature was constructed and verified to forecast the prognosis of patients with cervical cancer and provide novel insights and directions for cervical carcinoma.
Improving thermal stability of biopolymer nanocomposite of aloe vera gel reinforced with Mango seed shell cellulose nanocrystals and Evaluating Its Anti-bacterial activity
Authors: Turunesh Debela Jufar , Yihun Fantahun Aklog , Zelekew Osman Ahmed , Ayana Misganaw Tegegne , Zeleke Tamene Simachew
Published: March 2023

Renewability, biocompatibility, biodegradability and eco-friendly aloe vera gel biopolymer reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals materials improved the thermal stability of biopolymer nanocomposite. Aloe vera gel powered was extracted from leaves by alcohol precipitation method, and cellulose nanocrystals were prepared by sulfuric acid hydrolysis of purified mango seed shell cellulose and were used as reinforcement with aloe vera gel by solution method under strong stirring and addition of glycerol as cross-linking agents. Mango seed shell cellulose nanocrystals and the nanocomposite were characterized with ultraviolet visible, fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer, thermogravimetric analysis, differential thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and antimicrobial properties of the nanocomposite were also measured. A significant enhancement of the thermal stability was achieved with a small loading of cellulose nanocrystals to the aloe vera gel matrix. The results of thermal properties show that 3 wt.% CNCs containing nanocomposite have higher thermal stability among other wt.% CNC. The improvements in thermal properties suggest a close interaction between filler and matrix as shown from FTIR results increasing CNCs decreases the intensity of the peaks. The SEM image shows that good improvement in morphology and good dispersion cellulose nanocrystals in aloe vera gel matrixes. Even though, all synthesized biopolymer nanocomposites show a significant antibacterial activity even at lower concentration; 3 wt. % CNCs containing nanocomposite has higher antibacterial activity than the others.