bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘ Triple Clear’: A systematic and up-to-date surgical process for Campanacci grades II and II giant cell tumours of bone, with or without pathological fracture and joint invasion
Authors: Wang Yushan , Tian Qiaoqiao , Li Haoze , Li Jian , Ren Peng , Lv Zhi , Lv Jia , Bai Junjun , Feng Yi
Published: March 2022

Background: 1) To describe a systematic process for giant cell tumours of bone (GCTB). 2) To compare the clinical effects of ‘triple clear’ (TC) and segmental resection (SR), bone grafts and bone cement.Method: Patients with Campanacci grades II and III primary GCTB who were treated with either SR (n = 39) or TC (n = 41) were included. The pain level was determined by the Visual Analogue Scale. Limb function was determined by the Musculoskeletal Tumour Society (MSTS) score.Result: The operation time was 135.7±38.4 min in the TC group and 174.2±43.0 min in the SR group (P<0.05). The recurrence rates were 7.3% in the TC group and 10.0% in the SR group (P = 0.37). The MSTS scores at three months after surgery were 19.8±1.5 in the TC group and 18.8 ±1.5 in the SR group. The MSTS scores at two years were 26.3±0.7 in the TC group and 24.2±1.6 in the SR group (P<0.05). Conclusion: TC is recommended for patients with Campanacci grade II-III GCTB and for those with GCTB accompanied by pathological fracture or joint invasion. Bone grafts may be more suitable than bone cement in the long term.
Biochemical cartilage alteration in T2 mapping in knee joints of amateur marathon runners before and after competition
Authors: Zheng Weipeng , WU Xiaohang , Zhang Yanwei , Zhao Guoyuan , Wei Hewei , Wan Lei , Zhao Guoyuan , Hu Weijian , Fang Weihua
Published: March 2022

To evaluate changes in knee articular cartilage of amateur marathon runners using magnetic resonance imaging T2 relaxation time mapping. T2 mapping was performed in 18 non-professional male marathon runners 48 h before and 72 h after a marathon. Bulk and zonal tibiofemoral T2 mapping were assessed. T2 mapping values of the left knees (LK) decreased after competition (48.45±25.08 versus 39.75±18.91 ms), while those of the right knees (RK) were similar before and after the marathon. Significant increases in mean T2 relaxation times were observed in the RK medial femoral condyle (42.14±8.96 versus 53.63±3.664 ms). There were significant decreases in T2 relaxation time in the LK medial tibial plateau (50.01±30.25 versus 33.99±7.25 ms), LK lateral tibial plateau (44.64±19.84 versus 29.62±9.76 ms), LK lateral femoral condyle (54.72±32.94 versus 44.75±16.61 ms), and RK lateral tibial plateau (42.93±16.91 versus 35.51±16.20 ms). No significant changes were observed in the LK medial femoral condyle, RK medial tibial plateau, and femoral condyle. Regional analyses showed lower T2 mapping values in the L2, R2, L5, R5, L8, and R8 points on both knees after competition. Changes in T2 mapping values can reflect alterations in cartilage structures. As an extreme endurance sport, marathons can damage the local cartilage of knee joints of non-professional marathon athletes shortly after exercise. However, this effect is small and probably not clinically relevant.
Non-functioning pituitary microadenoma in children and adolescents: Is follow-up with diagnostic imaging necessary?
Authors: Borghammar Camilla , Tamaddon Ashkan , Erfurth Eva-Marie , Sundgren Pia C , Siesjö Peter , Elfving Maria , Nilsson Margareta
Published: March 2022

Purpose
No consensus exists regarding follow-up recommendations for suspected pituitary microadenoma in children. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the growth potential of pituitary solid and cystic lesions < 10 mm in children and evaluated the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements.
Methods
The children included were < 18 years at first pituitary MRI and radiologically diagnosed with a non-functioning microadenoma or cyst < 10 mm. Lesion size at first and latest MRI as well as all individual MRI examinations were re-evaluated.
Results
In total, 74 children, median age 12 years (range 3–17), had a non-functioning microadenoma, probable microadenoma, or cyst. Of these, 55 underwent repeated MRI (median 3, range 2–7) with a median follow-up of 37 months (range 4–189). None of the pituitary lesions without hormonal disturbances increased significantly during follow-up. Two radiologists agreed that no lesion could be identified in 38/269 (14%) MRI examinations, and in 51/231 (22%) they disagreed about lesion location. In 34/460 (7%) MRI measurements size differed > 2 mm, which had been considered significant progression.
Conclusion
Non-functioning pituitary microadenoma in children has small size variations, often below the spatial resolution of the scanners. We suggest lesions < 4 mm only for clinical follow-up, lesions 4–6 mm for MRI after 2 years and ≥ 7 mm MRI after 1 and 3 years, with clinical follow-up in between. If no progression, further MRI should only be performed after new clinical symptoms or hormonal disturbances.
Variations in the use of malaria preventive measures among pregnant women in Guinea. A secondary analysis of the 2012 and 2018 demographic and health surveys.
Authors: BARRY Ibrahima , TOURE Almamy Amara , SANGHO Oumar , BEAVOGUI Abdoul Habib , CISSE Diao , DIALLO Abdourahamane , MAGASSOUBA Aboubacar Sidiki , SYLLA Younoussa , DOUMBIA Lancina , CHERIF Mahamoud Sama , CAMARA Alseny Yarie , DIAWARA Fatou , TOUNKARA Moctar , DELAMOU Alexandre , DOUMBIA Seydou
Published: March 2022

Introduction Despite its effectiveness, the optimal use of the combination of insecticide treated nets (ITN) and intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (TPIg-SP) remains low in malaria endemic areas. Therefore, we studied its variations and predictors in Guinea.MethodsWe conducted a secondary analysis of the 2012 and 2018 Guinea Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). It included women who had given birth in the 3 years before each DHS, slept on ITN and took at least one dose of SP. Moran indices were used to determine spatial autocorrelation. A logistic regression and classification and regression tree (CART) identified the predictors of malaria preventive measures (MPM).ResultsIn 2012, 60.88% of pregnant women used MPM incompletely compared with 79.11% in 2018. Associated factors with incomplete MPM in 2012 were as follows: having an indirect link with the head of household (AOR = 2.23, 95% CI 1.08–4.61) and performing at least 4 ANCs (AOR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.44–0.99). In 2018 : live in households of 2 to 5 people (AOR = 0.54, 95% CI 0.36–0.80), have a man as the head of the household (AOR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.35–0.89), perform the first ANC in the second quarter (AOR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.54–0.99), perform at least 4 ANCs (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.36–0.62), have a job (AOR = 0. 67, 95% CI 0.50–0.88), give birth in a public health facility (AOR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.39–0.72) and the middle wealth quintile (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.07–2.26). A global autocorrelation (I Moran=0.0009, p = 0.2349) and high-high clusters were found in Mamou in 2012. In 2018, autocorrelation was found (I Moran=0.0169, p ≤ 0.05), with spatial clusters in regions of Boké, Mamou, Labé, and N’Zérokoré.ConclusionComplete use of MPM during pregnancy remains still low throughout years in Guinea. Strategies toward familial and healthsystem levels should be implemented and monitored, to reduce inequality in the use of MPM. In this regard, Mamou region deserves more attention.
Bushfire prediction in Victoria, Australia using Generalized extreme value distribution
Authors: Khastagir Anirban , Hossain Iqbal , Aktar Nazneen
Published: March 2022

To facilitate appropriate design, management, and improvement of infrastructures for both rural and urban communities, the prediction for the occurrence of future extreme climatic events e.g. bushfire is intrinsic. Widely used extreme climatic event prediction method, Generalized Extreme Value (GEV), was used in this study in predicting annual peak Forest Fire Danger Index (FFDI), which is a measure of fire behaviour used in different parts of Australia. The GEV distribution was fitted for 17 selected stations spreading all around Victoria, Australia. The estimation of the parameters for the GEV distribution was performed using Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) method. Three goodness of fit tests such as: Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test, Anderson-Darling (AD) test, and Chi-square test result were used to verify the efficacy of GEV distribution. Fire frequency curves (FFCs) were derived for Victoria to identify fire prone regions. The study revealed that Fréchet (type II) extreme value distribution is suitable for modelling the annual peak of FFDI for most of the selected stations. Annual peak FFDI for the 100 years return level (time average of every 100 years) can vary from 34 (Dartmouth) i.e. high fire danger event to 146 (Walpeup) i.e. catstrophic bushfire event. The study noted that three stations in Victoria namely: Nhill, Walpeup and Ouyen are vulnerable to catastrophic fire danger situation (FFDI ≥100) with at least 1% probability of occurrence (1 in 100 year). The developed FFCs for Victoria will guide key public and private stakeholders namely: catchment management authorities, insurance companies, structural designers, traffic modellers, and forest hydrologists when designing and managing infrastructures in fire prone areas.
Preoperative lower limb skeletal muscle mass impact functional rehabilitation and mobility ability after total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a prospective, observational study
Authors: Yang Ling-Li , Fan Yang , Wang Zi-Ming , Cen Yuan , Xiong Yan , Ren Hui
Published: March 2022

Background
Despite the remarkably successful treatment of total knee arthroplasty (TKA), several patients also dissatisfied with their function, not met preoperative expectations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between preoperative lower limb skeletal muscle mass (LSM) and early functional rehabilitation outcome after TKA.
Methods
102 patients who underwent a primary unilateral TKA were enrolled to our prospectively observational study. Preoperative variables included demographic (socio-demographic data and disease-related information), LSM, lower limb muscle strength. The HSS and WOMAC-Function scales was used to evaluate knee functional rehabilitation outcome and mobility ability at the time points of preoperative, 3 months and 6 months after TKA. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis was performed with the evaluations at 6 months after TKA as the main outcome measures.
Results
Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that LSM (β = 4.367, p = 0.000) was positively related to functional rehabilitation measured by HSS at 6 months postoperatively; age (β=-0.104, p = 0.007), postoperative pain (β=-1.311, p = 0.000) were negatively related to HSS. The preoperative lower limb skeletal muscle mass showed a significant negative relationship with the postoperative functional activity ability assessed by WOMAC-Function scale (β=-0.208, P = 0.006).
Conclusion
Lower limb skeletal muscle mass positively impacted on functional rehabilitation and knee mobility ability after TKA in patients with osteoarthritis. LSM should be considered when considering patient`s expectation to achieve higher demanding tasks.
Universal testing for hepatitis B and hepatitis C in the Emergency Department: A cost-effectiveness and budget impact analysis of two urban hospitals in the United Kingdom
Authors: Williams Jack , Vickerman Peter , Smout Elizabeth , Page Emma E , Phyu Khine , Aldersley Mark , Nebbia Gaia , Douthwaite Sam , Hunter Laura , Ruf Murad , Miners Alec
Published: March 2022

Background Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of testing for hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) in emergency departments (ED), due to the elevated prevalence amongst attendees. The aim of this study was to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis of universal opt-out HBV and HCV testing in EDs based on two long-term studies of the real-world effectiveness of testing in two large ED’s in the UK. MethodsA Markov model was used to evaluate ED-based HBV and HCV testing versus no ED testing, in addition to current testing practice. The two EDs had a HBV HBsAg prevalence of 0.5%-0.9% and an HCV RNA prevalence of 0.9%-1.0%. The analysis was performed from a UK health service perspective, over a lifetime time horizon. Costs are reported in British pounds (GBP), and outcomes as quality adjusted life years (QALYs), with both discounted at 3.5% per year. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) are calculated as costs per QALY gained. A willingness-to-pay threshold of £20,000/QALY was used. The cost-effectiveness was estimated for both infections, in both ED’s. Results HBV and HCV testing were highly cost-effective in both settings, with ICERs ranging from £7,177 to £12,387 per QALY gained. In probabilistic analyses, HBV testing was 89% to 94% likely to be cost-effective at the threshold, while HCV testing was 94% to 100% likely to be cost-effective, across both settings. In deterministic sensitivity analyses, testing remained cost-effective in both locations at ≥0.25% HBsAg prevalence, and ≥0.49% HCV RNA prevalence. This is much lower than the prevalence observed in the two EDs included in this study.Conclusions HBV and HCV testing in urban EDs is highly cost-effective in the UK, and can be cost-effective at relatively low prevalence. These results should be reflected in UK and European hepatitis testing guidelines.
Cost-effectiveness of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody associated with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (R-FC) for the first-line treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in the Brazilian public health system (SUS)
Authors: Azevedo Bruno , Carvalho Adriana , Sasse Andre
Published: March 2022

Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is the most common type of leukemia in the Western world. During the past decade, treatment options have expanded, along with an expressive rise in treatment costs. In Brazil, the overall costs of cancer treatment are rising, mainly due to judicialization lawsuits. The efficacy and safety of rituximab combined with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (R-FC) for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia has been demonstrated by the CLL8 trial, which was conducted with previously untreated patients, positioning the immunochemotherapy regimen as a standard choice for physically fit patients. Considering this scenario, the objective of the current study is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the addition of rituximab to the FC protocol in the Brazilian public health system. Methods: We developed a Markov model with three health states to extrapolate the CLL8 trial results. Transition probabilities and adverse event incidences were obtained from published trial data. The costs were assessed using Brazil’s Ministry of Health Pricing database (publicly available). A simplified treatment algorithm was developed according to the currently available treatment options in the Brazilian public health system and assuming the availability of rituximab. Results: The addition of rituximab to the FC regimen results in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 8389 USD (45003.86 BRL) per life-year free of progression. The sensitivity analysis results show that from the Brazilian public health system perspective, the combination of rituximab with FC chemotherapy represents a cost-effective approach for the first-line treatment of patients with CLL. Conclusions: Considering the data described in this study, we conclude that the addition of rituximab to the first-line treatment regimen for CLL is a cost-effective strategy for the Brazilian public health system. With the advent of new drugs and new treatment regimens yielding positive clinical outcomes in patients refractory to the R-FC regimen (del17p, p53 mutations), new studies must be conducted to evaluate their cost-effectiveness in this population of patients.Trial registration: Not applicable
Higher versus lower dose corticosteroids for severe to critical COVID-19: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis
Authors: Pitre Tyler , Su Johnny , Mah Jasmine , Helmeczi Wryan , Danhoe Sharef , Plaxton William , Giilck Stephen , Rochwerg Bram , Zeraatkar Dena
Published: March 2022

Purpose
Corticosteroids are standard of care for patients with severe COVID-19. However, the optimal dose is uncertain. We compare higher doses of corticosteroids with lower doses in patients with COVID-19.
Methods
We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MedRxiv, and Web of Science from inception to January 7, 2022, for trials that randomized patients with severe-to-critical COVID-19 to corticosteroids, standard care, or placebo. Reviewers, working in duplicate, screened references, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using a modified version of the Cochrane risk of bias 2.0 tool. We performed a dose-response meta-analysis and used the GRADE framework to assess the certainty of evidence. We present our results in absolute risk difference (RD) per 1000 with 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Results
We included 19 trials, with 9,609 patients. We show that, compared to lower-dose corticosteroids, higher-dose corticosteroids probably reduce mortality (RD 14.8 fewer deaths per 1000 [95% CI 6.0 to 27.9 fewer]; moderate certainty), may reduce the need for mechanical ventilation (RD 10.4 fewer per 1000 [95% CI 19.2 fewer to 3.6 more]; low certainty) and may reduce risk of nosocomial infections (16.7 fewer infections per 1000 [95% CI 5.4 to 25.0 fewer]; low certainty).
Conclusions
Relatively higher doses of corticosteroids may be beneficial in patients with severe-to-critical COVID-19 without increasing the risk of nosocomial infections.
Introduction and rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant and the dynamics of its sub-lineages BA.1 and BA.1.1, December 2021, Finland
Authors: Vauhkonen Hanna , Truong Phuoc , Kant Ravi , Plyusnin Ilja , Erdin Mert , Kurkela Satu , Liimatainen Hanna , Ikonen Niina , Blomqvist Soile , Liitsola Kiirsi , Lindh Erika , Helve Otto , Jarva Hanna , Longinov Raisa , Palva Aino , Hannunen Tiina , Hannula Sari , Parry Mikko , Kauppi Paula , Vaheri Antti , Sironen Tarja , Lappalainen Maija , Savolainen-Kopra Carita , Smura Teemu , Vapalahti Olli
Published: March 2022

Multiple introductions of SARS-COV-2 Omicron variant BA.1. and BA.1.1. lineages to Finland were detected early December 2021, and comprised the majority over Delta variant in 3 weeks in the capital region. Our sequence analysis demonstrates emergence of a large cluster of BA.1.1 in community transmission.
Acute Effect of Caffeine-based Multi-Ingredient Supplement on Reactive Agility and Jump Height In Recreational Handball Players
Authors: Kaczka Piotr , Kubicka Katarzyna , Batra Amit , Maciejczyk Marcin , Jastrząb Rafał , Kopera Edyta , Bira Justyna , Zakliczyńska Halina , Zając Tomasz
Published: March 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effect of a caffeine-based multi-ingredient supplement (MS) on the reactive agility and jump performance in recreational handball male players. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, crossover study involved twenty-four male handball players. All participants were tested under three conditions: placebo, caffeine, or MS ingestion 45 minutes before exercise tests. Participants performed a reactive agility test (Y-test: 1-1-2 test) and countermovement jump (CMJ).Results: None of the supplements improved countermovement jump height. The time needed to complete the 1-1-2 test was significantly shorter in MS condition compared to placebo. The differences in agility between PL vs. caffeine and MS vs. caffeine conditions were not statistically significant.Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that the caffeine-based multi-ingredient performance was effective in improvement in reactive agility but not in jump height in recreational handball male players. A similar effect was not observed with caffeine ingestion alone. Further comparative studies (MS ingestion vs. only caffeine ingestion) and MS with different compositions are needed.
Isolated Congenital Giant Fetal Upper Limb and Trunk Haemangioma Diagnosed Antenatally Using 4D Ultrasonography and Regressed by Age of Five Months. A Case Report
Authors: Farag Amr Hassaan , Sadek Heba , El-Deen Mohamed Nasr
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Congenital haemangiomas are benign vascular tumours that are the most common of all congenital anomalies. Case presentation: A rare condition of isolated fetal upper limb and trunk haemangioma suspected with antenatal 4D ultrasound scan at 28 weeks gestation. The baby was delivered through an emergency caesarean section at 36 weeks gestation followed by postnatal diagnosis and medical treatment with complete regression at five months of age. Conclusion: Expectant approach of congenital haemangiomas with propranolol can result in rapid regression as early as five months of age.
Post-processing of hydrological model simulations using the convolutional neural network and support vector regression
Authors: Liu Songnan , Wang Jun , Wang Huijun , Wu Yuetao
Published: March 2022

Post-processing methods can be used to reduce the biases of hydrological models. In this research, six post-processing methods are compared: quantile mapping (QM) methods, which include four kinds of transformations, and two newly established machine learning frameworks [support vector regression (SVR) and convolutional neural network (CNN)] based on meteorological data and variation mode decomposition (VMD)-decomposed streamflow. These post-processing methods are applied to a distributed model (WRF-Hydro), and the evaluation is carried out over five watersheds with different areas in South China. The post-processing methods are separately applied to calibrated and uncalibrated models. The results show that the SVR- and CNN-based post-processing methods perform better than the QM methods in terms of daily streamflow simulations in different areas with different topographies in the Xijiang River basin. There are large uncertainties in the QM post-processing methods. The CNN-based post-processing performs slightly better than the SVR-based post-processing, but both methods can markedly improve the simulated streamflow. The CNN- and SVR-based post-processing frameworks are suitable for both calibration and test periods. The differences between post-processing with uncalibrated and calibrated models are quite small for SVR- and CNN-based post-processing, but large for QM post-processing. For WRF-Hydro, the CNN- and SVR-based post-processing methods consume much less time and computational resources than model calibration.
Impact of climate change on groundwater potential and recharge in the drought prone Runde catchment of Zimbabwe
Authors: Gona Liberty S. , Gumindoga Webster , Rwasoka Donald T. , Owen Richard J. Stuart
Published: March 2022

Groundwater provides critical freshwater supplies for most rural communities living in drought-prone areas. Such is the case for Runde catchment in Zimbabwe, whose rural communities depend on groundwater. Climate change and increased variability pose a threat to water availability by affecting groundwater potential and recharge, but the full extent of the threat is not well understood. Thus, the main objective of this study was to assess the impact of climate change on groundwater potential and recharge in the catchment. The groundwater potential mapping was performed using a spatially weighted overlay method with inputs: soil type, geology, land use, observed precipitation, topographic wetness index and elevation. This mapping produced a groundwater potential index, classified into groundwater potential zones and cross-validated with borehole yield data, r=0.63 and n=62. The groundwater potential validation showed 1.6 and 4.8% of the total boreholes were in the high (>7 L/s) to very high (4–7 L/s) while 43.5 and 50.1% moderate (1–4 L/s), and low (<1 L/s) groundwater potential zones respectively. The simulated precipitation increased by 23% for 2020–2080. Climate change impacts decreased average groundwater potential by 30.8% (13,062.90 km2) low, 5.8% (2433.25 km2) moderate and increased by 34.8% (14,707 km2) high by 1.8% (789.15 km2) very high groundwater potential. For sustainable groundwater management, a holistic approach informs climate change adaptation and mitigation policies.
Preparation of Levothyroxine Transdermal Gels and Preliminary Pharmacokinetic Study in Hypothyroidism Rat Model
Authors: Bai Qingshuang , Tan Jian , Chai Jinyan , Shen Linna , Li Ning , Wu Cailan
Published: March 2022

Background:

Hypothyroidism is a common disorder due to inadequate thyroid hormone secretion.
In patients with hypothyroidism, levothyroxine (LT4) is the treatment of choice, and tablets are the
most common dosage form. However, the main limitation of tablet LT4 is malabsorption.

Objective:

This study intends to develop a new dosage form of percutaneous drug delivery for levothyroxine.
Absorption of levothyroxine sodium through the application of gel formulation was studied using
a hypothyroidism rat model.

Methods:

A formulation of levothyroxine sodium gel was developed and selected. In-vitro transdermal
experiments were performed using the vertical Franz diffusion pool method, and gel formulation was
used for animal research (hypothyroidism rats model). Total 30 rats were randomly divided into 6 groups,
and one was the normal control group. The other 5 groups were prepared as hypothyroidism models. After
applying different doses of gel preparation to the rat model, we measured serum total thyroxine (TT4),
free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) using fluorescence
determination of luminescence immunoassay.

Results:

The optimum formulation of levothyroxine gels comprised 20% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), 5%
glycerol, 2% azone, and 6% oleic acid. The application of levothyroxine sodium gel resulted in quick and
smooth action so that the predicted level of the normal control group could be reached within 2 weeks,
and it lasted steadily for 8 weeks.

Conclusion:

This research study successfully developed and tested an optimal formulation of levothyroxine
gel with therapeutic benefit on hypothyroidism in rats.
Multifunctional Patented Nanotherapeutics for Cancer Intervention: 2010-
Onwards
Authors: Pandey Parijat , Chopra Hitesh , Kaushik Deepak , Verma, Ravinder , Purohit Deepika , Parashar Jatin , Mittal Vineet , Rahman Md. Habibur , Bhatia Saurabh , Kumar Pradeep , Bhattacharya Tanima , Tagde Priti , Al-Harrasi Ahmed
Published: March 2022

Even today, cancer is one of the prominent leading causes of death worldwide. However, there are a couple of treatment options available for management, but the adverse effects are more prominent as compared to therapeutic effects. Therefore, there is a need to design some midway that may help to bypass the negative effects or lower their severity. Nanotechnology has addressed many issues, still many miles are needed to cover before reaching the center stage. The developed nanofor-mulations can target distant organs owing to their multifunctionality and targeting potential. Stimuli-responsive nanomedicine is one of the most exploited formulations. They can encapsulate and release the drugs for a higher period. However, they release a burst mechanism. The other nano-formulations contain dendrimers, micelles, and lipid-based nano-formulations that have been developed and eval-uated for their efficacy in cancer treatment. This review paper highlights some significant patents granted/applied in various patent offices around the globe to treat cancer using the nanotechnology. The Google Patent, United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Escapenet, and many oth-ers were used as the search engine for patent search, and data were collected and analyzed. They used these patented technologies for diagnostic and treatment options, enhancing the absorption, distribu-tion, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) profile of therapeutic molecules.
Study of the Economic and Environmental Effects of Photovoltaic Resources
Location in the Electricity Network Using PSO (Particle Swarm
Optimizers) Algorithm
Authors: Naima Benbouza , Louiza Benfarhi
Published: March 2022

Background:

Currently, electricity producers are mainly concerned with finding solutions
that make it possible to produce electricity with a low fuel cost and minimize toxic gas emissions
into the atmosphere.

Objective:

This paper aims to demonstrate the economic and environmental impact of connecting
photovoltaic plants on the electricity grid to reduce the cost of electricity production and the emissions
of toxic gas into the atmosphere.

Methods:

The study was carried out under the MATLAB environment using the PSO algorithm
(Particle Swarm Optimizers), which makes it possible to optimize the cost function and the gas
emissions function in two cases: In the first case, the electricity network is considered without photovoltaic
generation; and in the second case with the addition of photovoltaic generation.

Results:

After connecting the photovoltaic plant to the electricity network, we obtained a remarkable
reduction in the cost of production and the quantity of emission of toxic gases.

Conclusion:

The economic and environmental impact of the photovoltaic plant on the electricity
grid has been well demonstrated by applying the method of particle swarm optimization (PSO). We
compared the results obtained before and after connecting the photovoltaic plant to the electricity
grid; we obtained good results in terms of reduction in production costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Cyber catalysis: predicting stability and activity of multinary element nanoalloy based on real system first-principles calculations
Authors: Koyama Michihisa
Published: March 2022

There is significant unexplored potential when it comes to combining different elements. As such, computational science is looking into how combinations can be explored within cyberspace, enabling theoretical work to be conducted at impressive speeds. Professor Michihisa Koyama, Research
Initiative for Supra-Materials, Shinshu University, Japan, is working to predict the catalytic activity of combined elements by employing an approach that involves a digital transformation of materials science. He and his team are developing cyber technologies to explore the infinite material
space of nanoparticles, which involves the use of first-principles calculations based on quantum mechanics, as well as real system calculations. In their nanoparticle investigations, the researchers divide the real system of nanoparticles into three: super atoms, clusters and nanoparticles.
Koyama and the team have been successful in their use of experimental science to synthesise nanoparticles and predict catalytic activity. The researchers believe that by 2030, they will have material development examples driven by their work.
Supporting research and innovation
Authors: Annette Lucy
Published: March 2022

At the third Research and Innovation Day, which took place in June 2021, Mariya Gabriel, EC Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, stated: 'Our ambition is to build a renewed innovation policy that provides smart investments for scaling up companies, new
forms of financial instruments and how to best exploit synergies between EU, national and regional funds.' Cross-border cooperation is key to overcoming challenges such as climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic and, as such, the recently released Communication on Global Approach for Research
and Innovation document defines a global strategy for cooperation with other countries and entities. A key focus for Horizon Europe is on improving health, mobility, energy efficiency and food security, as well as tackling climate change and preserving cultural heritage. The programme encompasses
diverse instruments for covering a range of projects, an extended duration and an increased budget. In order to be as impactful as possible, Horizon Europe collaborates with other European programmes and Gabriel believes that public-private cooperation is another tool that can be used to maximise
the impact of the programme. For example, she said that collaborating with industry is key to overcoming technological challenges such as the development of clean Hydrogen or High Performance Computing. The development of a flexible and collaborative innovation ecosystem that involves the
input of diverse stakeholders is a key part of Horizon Europe's strategy. A key word here is synergy and this includes synergies at all levels, between policies, programmes and instruments.
Preserving modern heritage in Korea by utilising research as a method of conservation for modern heritage that may be lost due to development in the region and deriving a way to internationalize the strong locality of modern heritage
Authors: Kang Dongjin
Published: March 2022

Globalisation and the rapid development of countries can endanger modern heritage and, unfortunately, in spite of preservation efforts, modern heritage sites continue to be damaged and destroyed. Professor Dongjin Kang, Department of Urban Planning and Engineering, Kyungsung University,
South Korea, wants to conserve modern heritage sites in specific regions in Korea. Part of this involves changing the perceptions of local people on modern heritage by ensuring that modern heritage is adequately understood. As such, he and his team are constructing an archive of modern heritage
sites that are in need of preservation. A primary goal for the researchers is to discover effective means of working with citizens in order to encourage their participation. Therefore, Kang and the team produce leaflets and local newspapers, make and propose future regional maps, and deliver
seminars and lectures. In recent work, Kang has been working to communicate the historical importance of Port Pier 1, Busan; namely its significant influence in the modern history of Korea. From 2009 to 2014, Kang organised the 'Hialeah Park Forum' and participated in the civic movement to
turn the US military base (Camp Hialeah) into a civic park, successfully changing citizens' perspectives. Now, the researchers are focusing on conserving the silos of Jaseongdae Pier in Busan Port.
Elucidation of the singularity of fluid equations and the statistical properties of turbulence by vortex motion
Authors: Kimura Yoshifumi
Published: March 2022

Large-scale flows and small-scale turbulent motions are closely linked and understanding their dynamics can help to better predict and hope to mitigate climate events. This involves the detailed analysis of the Navier-Stokes equations combined with hard numerical calculations. Professor
Yoshifumi Kimura, Graduate School of Mathematics, Nagoya University, Japan, wants to understand the intrinsic mechanisms of large-scale flows in the atmosphere and ocean that are known as Global-Scale Flows (GSFs). To do this he is developing methodologies for extraction and reduction of dynamical
information in GSFs and taking into consideration the contrasting sides of GSFs; they appear chaotic but follow deterministic equations. In his work, Kimura is using mathematical, computational and data-scientific approaches, nonlinear singularity/vortex analysis, statistical theory/modelling
of turbulence and wavelet analysis combined with high-quality observation and simulation data. It is important for Kimura to understand flow phenomena from the geometrical viewpoint, which has enabled him to unearth hidden relationships. He also relies on the use of supercomputers to perform
simulations that allow him to understand and verify theories. A central idea for Kimura's studies is vortex motion, which is a key fundamental process in turbulence. He is therefore exploring the unique properties of vortex motions and their relationship to flows. Kimura has already been able
to unearth new concepts and relations in vortex motion and turbulence and will continue in particular to explore vortex reconnections in greater detail.
Mechanics of droplet flow/solidification and film deformation/fracture
Authors: Sakaguchi Motoki
Published: March 2022

In industrial applications, the coatings of materials are an important consideration, particularly the fracture and elastic-plastic mechanics of coating materials. This is an area of focus for researchers in the Inoue Sakaguchi Laboratory, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Japan, where
Associate Professor Motoki Sakaguchi and the team are investigating the stress and strain evolution during the solidification and adhesion process of coating materials. They are doing this by conducting model experiments using paraffin wax, which is enabling them to investigate the individual
effects of different experimental variables, including droplet materials, droplet temperature, droplet kinetic energy, substrate temperature and substrate roughness. In a current project, Sakaguchi is exploring the fundamental processes involved in residual stress development in thermal barrier
coatings during thermal spray procedures. For this, he and the team have developed a model experiment that allows them to simplify the thermal spray using a paraffin wax with a low melting point and, in doing so, the researchers can monitor and precisely record the deposition process of each
splat in the thermal spray. Sakaguchi hopes the research will help improve thermal spray technology and, ultimately, lead to improved, longer-lasting components and equipment in industrial products.
LAVANTA BİTKİSİ ÖZÜTÜ KULLANILARAK SİNH2@FeNP NANOKOMPOZİTİNİN YEŞİL SENTEZİ İLE SULU ÇÖZELTİDEN METİLEN MAVİSİNİN GİDERİMİ: DENEYSEL TASARIM YAKLAŞIMI
Authors: PAMUKOĞLU Yunus , KIRKAN Bülent , YOLDAŞ Belgin
Published: March 2022

Bu çalışmada, lavanta bitkisi (Lavandula angustifolia) özütü kullanılarak yeşil sentez yöntemiyle sentezlenen SiNH2@FeNP nanokompoziti ile sulu çözeltiden metilen mavisi (MM) boyar maddesinin giderilmesi Box-Behnken deneysel tasarım yöntemi uygulanarak incelenmiştir. Yeni sentezlenen bu malzeme ile sulu çözeltiden metilen mavisi gideriminde adsorpsiyon sürecini etkileyen çözelti pH’ı, adsorban dozu ve başlangıç boya konsantrasyonu parametrelerinin etkisi araştırılmıştır. Elde edilen SiNH2@FeNP nanokompozitinin yapısı FTIR, SEM ve XRD teknikleri kullanılarak karakterize edilmiştir. Deney tasarımı sonuçlarından elde edilen verilere göre, pH, başlangıç metilen mavisi konsantrasyonu ve adsorban dozaj değerleri sırasıyla 10, 42,7 mg/L ve 0,5 g/L'de tutulduğunda yaklaşık %75 metilen mavisi boya giderim veriminin elde edilebileceği belirlenmiştir. Bu veriler ışığında yeşil sentez metodu ile üretilen bu nanokompozitin çevre dostu, ucuz, uygulanabilirliği kolay ve etkili bir adsorban olduğu görülmektedir.
TÜRKİYE’DE GIDA MÜHENDİSLİĞİ EĞİTİMİ
Authors: BUZRUL Sencer
Published: March 2022

Bu çalışmada Türkiye’de Gıda Mühendisliği Eğitimi ele alınmıştır. Ülkemizde bulunan 207 üniversitenin web siteleri tek tek incelenmiş ve gıda mühendisliği bölümü yer alanlar mercek altına alınmıştır. Buradan elde edilen veriler aynı zamanda Yükseköğretim Kurulu’nun (YÖK) istatistikleri ile de karşılaştırılmıştır. Mevcut durumda ülkemizde 70’den fazla gıda mühendisliği bölümü olduğu ancak, bunların bir kısmının kapandığı ve/veya öğrenci almadığı, bir kısmında yeterli çalışan (öğretim üyesi, araştırma görevlisi, teknisyen) bulunmadığı, bazı bölümlerde altyapı eksiklikleri olduğu, özellikle son yıllarda bazı bölümler için açılan kontenjanların boş kaldığı görülmüştür. Güncel istatistiklere göre gıda mühendisliği bölümlerinde 13.532’si lisans, 2401’i yüksek lisans ve 1081’i doktora olmak üzere toplam 17.014 öğrenci bulunmaktadır. Kız öğrencilerin sayısı erkek öğrencilerin sayısının 2 katından fazladır. Gıda mühendisliği bölümlerinde 914 öğretim elemanı (profesör, doçent, doktor öğretim üyesi, öğretim görevlisi, araştırma görevlisi) görev yapmaktadır ve burada da kadın çalışanların erkek çalışanlardan fazla olduğu görülmüştür. Sadece 14 bölümün akredite (ABET veya MÜDEK) olduğu ve sadece 9 bölümün %100 İngilizce eğitim verdiği tespit edilebilmiştir. Tüm bu tespitler ışığında, çalışmanın son kısmında ülkemizdeki gıda mühendisliği eğitiminin iyileştirilebilmesi için bir takım öneriler maddeler halinde ortaya konmuştur.
EDİRNE İKLİM ŞARTLARINDA ÇEVRE SICAKLIĞI VE RÜZGAR HIZININ POLİKRİSTAL FOTOVOLTAİK PANEL ÇIKIŞ GÜCÜNE ETKİLERİNİN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: AKAL Dinçer , AKAN Ahmet Erhan
Published: March 2022

Bu çalışmada, Edirne ilinde kurulu bir polikristal fotovoltaik panelli güneş enerjisi sisteminin performansının çevre sıcaklığı ve rüzgar hızı ile değişimi araştırılarak, bu unsurların fotovoltaik sistem performansı üzerine etkileri incelenmiştir. Bu amaçla 1 Ağustos – 30 Eylül 2020 tarihleri arasında yapılan deneyde kullanılan sensörler aracılığı ile ölçülen iklimsel veriler ile panel çıkış gücü ve akım değerleri, sisteme bağlı bulunan Arduino Mega mikro işlemci karttaki yazılım vasıtasıyla hafıza kartına (SD kart) 10 dakika aralıklarla aktarılması sonucu elde edilmiştir. Çalışmadan elde edilen bulgulara göre, ortam sıcaklığındaki artışın fotovoltaik panellerin sıcaklığını arttırdığı, güneş radyasyonu miktarının ise üretilen elektriği doğru oranda etkilediği tespit edilmiştir. Fotovoltaik panel performansına rüzgâr hızının etkileri değerlendirildiğinde ise, rüzgâr hızının artan değerlerinde panel sıcaklıklarının düştüğü tespit edilmiş, fakat incelenen bölge için belirlenen nominal rüzgar hızlarının sayısının çok düşük değerlerde olduğu bu sebeple panellerin soğutulmasında rüzgarın direkt soğutucu olarak kullanılmasının yetersiz olacağı, panellerin soğutulması için yardımcı soğutma sistemlerinin kullanılması durumunda panellerin çıkış gücünün artacağı sonucuna varılmıştır.
ESTIMATION OF THE MAXIMUM BENDING MOMENT OF CANTILEVER SHEET PILE WALLS BY USING MULTIPLE LINEAR REGRESSION ANALYSIS
Authors: AKAN Recep
Published: March 2022

Sheet pile walls are flexible retaining structures that are used to hold the horizontal soil pressures behind them, especially in situations that cause stress changes such as excavation. They are divided into two as cantilever and externally supported. Cantilever walls are used in excavations with a maximum depth of 6 meters and are supported by anchors in excavations deeper than this. Some of the values to be calculated in the design of cantilever sheet pile walls are the embedment depth and the maximum bending moment that(Mmax) will occur in the cross-section of the wall. There are various approaches in analytical methods that have complex calculation steps such as determining earth pressures, solving second and third-order equations. In this study, the Mmax that will occur in the cross-section of a cantilever sheet pile wall penetrates in the sand is estimated by the expressions obtained with the help of multiple linear regression(MLR) analysis. The results showed that the Mmax may not be achieved by only MLR models but with the help of polynomial equations.
Association of Pregnancy With Coronavirus Cytokine Storm: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Muthuka John , Kiptoo Michael , Oluoch Kelly , Nzioki Japheth Mativo , Nyamai Everlyn Musangi
Published: March 2022

Background

COVID-19 was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, spreading to the rest of the globe, becoming a pandemic. Some studies have shown an association between pregnancy status and severe COVID-19 with a cytokine storm, whereas others have shown contrasting results.

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between pregnancy status and the clinical COVID-19 severity characterized by the cytokine storm through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

We searched the Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases to identify clinical studies suitable for inclusion in this meta-analysis. Studies reporting pregnancy status and comparing the COVID-19 severity cytokine storm outcome were included. COVID-19 severity characterized by a cytokine storm was described using parameters such as intensive care unit admission, invasive mechanical ventilation, mechanical ventilation, hospital admission, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, consolidation on chest computed tomography scan, pulmonary infiltration, extreme fevers as characteristic of a cytokine storm, syndromic severity, higher neutrophil count indicative of a cytokine storm, and severe COVID-19 presentation.

Results

A total of 17 articles including data for 840,332 women with COVID-19 were included. This meta-analysis revealed a correlation between positive pregnancy status and severe COVID-19 with a cytokine storm (random-effects model odds ratio [OR] 2.47, 95% CI 1.63-3.73; P<.001), with a cumulative incidence of 6432 (14.1%) and 24,352 (3.1%) among pregnant and nonpregnant women with COVID-19, respectively. The fixed-effects model also showed a correlation between pregnancy status and severe COVID-19 with a cytokine storm (OR 7.41, 95% CI 7.02-7.83; P<.001). Considerable heterogeneity was found among all pooled studies (I²=98%, P<.001). Furthermore, the updated analysis showed substantially low heterogeneity (I²=29 %, P=.19), and the funnel plot revealed no publication bias. The subanalysis between single-center and multicenter studies demonstrated similar heterogeneity (I2=72% and 98%, respectively). Sensitivity analysis on each subgroup revealed that pregnancy was significantly related to severe COVID-19 with a cytokine storm from single-center studies (fixed-effects model OR 3.97, 95% CI 2.26-6.95; P<.001) with very low heterogeneity (I²=2%, P=.42).

Conclusions

Being pregnant is clearly associated with experiencing a severe course of COVID-19 characterized by a cytokine storm. The COVID-19 pandemic should serve as an impetus for further research on pregnant women diagnosed with COVID-19 to map out the salient risk factors associated with its severity.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42021242011; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=242011.