bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sistema de doble fachada a partir de acero, aluminio y vidrio para edificios auto-sustentables = Double facade system from steel, aluminium and glass for self-sustaining buildings
Authors: Lucas-Velazco Freddy David , Echeverría-Maggi Eddie
Published: September 2022

La investigación determinó la posibilidad de elaborar un sistema de doble fachada a partir de acero, aluminio y vidrio para edificios con criterio autosustentable, y éstos materiales en conjunto pueden ofrecer una propuesta de calidad dentro de un contexto edificatorio del centro de la ciudad de Guayaquil. El sistema a su vez ha sido evaluado desde que el confort térmico, energético y acústico, en esta investigación. Con esta síntesis se cumple la hipótesis que indica la posibilidad de elaborar un prototipo capaz de funcionar como segunda piel de una edificación, y se determina su capacidad de optimizar las fachadas con superficies acristaladas simples. En el cumplimiento de los objetivos específicos, en primer lugar, se evaluó el mecanismo usual para dobles fachadas, que pueda ser aplicable en la ciudad de Guayaquil que contempla un clima cálido muy caloroso, definiendo la utilidad de la técnica de fachada suministradora. Además, se interpretó coincidencias de usuarios para conformar la propuesta, que definieron un prototipo que mejorara el aspecto estético, la optimización energética y el confort térmico. Se estableció también las dimensiones de un sistema de doble fachada mediante el análisis de especificaciones técnicas de los materiales para un diseño adaptable en edificios céntricos de Guayaquil.AbstractThe research determined the possibility of developing a double façade system from steel, aluminum and glass for buildings with self-sustaining criteria, and these materials together can offer a quality proposal within a building context in the center of the city of Guayaquil. The system in turn has been evaluated since the thermal, energetic and acoustic comfort, in this investigation. With this synthesis, the hypothesis that indicates the possibility of developing a prototype capable of functioning as a second skin of a building is fulfilled, and its ability to optimize facades with simple glazed surfaces is determined.In the fulfillment of the specific objectives, in the first place, the usual mechanism for double facades was evaluated, which may be applicable in the city of Guayaquil that contemplates a very hot warm climate, defining the utility of the supplying facade technique. In addition, user coincidences were interpreted to form the proposal, which defined a prototype that would improve the aesthetic aspect, energy optimization and thermal comfort. The dimensions of a double façade system were also established by analyzing the technical specifications of the materials for an adaptable design in downtown buildings in Guayaquil.
Estudio Experimental sobre las Propiedades de los Morteros de Cemento y Chamota = Experimental Study on the Properties of Cement and Chamotte Mortars
Authors: Ferrández-Vega Daniel , Zaragoza-Benzal Alicia , Morón-Barrios Alberto , Díaz-Velilla Jorge Pablo
Published: September 2022

El creciente agotamiento de los recursos naturales y el aumento de la actividad industrial está llevando al sector de la construcción hacia la búsqueda de nuevos materiales más respetuosos con el medio ambiente. En este trabajo se ha realizado una campaña experimental para conocer las propiedades físicas y mecánicas de los morteros de cemento elaborados con chamota, con la intención de estudiar su viabilidad técnica en comparación con los morteros elaborados con árido natural. Los resultados muestran como el empleo de los residuos cerámicos triturados como sustitución del árido natural para la fabricación de morteros es viable. No obstante, las resistencias mecánicas finales de los morteros se ven reducidas al emplear áridos reciclados, así como, se presentan unas peores propiedades físicas que podrían limitar el empleo de estos morteros en obra.AbstractThe growing depletion of natural resources and the increase in industrial activity is leading the construction sector to search for new materials that are more respectful of the environment. In this work, an experimental program has been carried out to know the physical and mechanical properties of cement mortars made with chamotte, with the intention of studying its technical feasibility in comparison with mortars made with natural aggregate. The results show how the use of crushed ceramic waste as a substitute for natural aggregate for the manufacture of mortars is viable. However, the final mechanical resistance of the mortars is reduced when using recycled aggregates from chamotte, as well as worse physical properties that could limit the use of these mortars on site.
Iluminación en viviendas, la habitación. Estudio comparativo y simulaciones = Lighting in houses, The rooms. Comparative study and simulations
Authors: Álvarez-Dorado Manuel , Ferrández-Vega Daniel , Morón-Fernández Carlos
Published: September 2022

El presente documento aborda el estudio de un nuevo material compuesto principalmente por una matriz de yeso (proveniente de un conglomerante industrial) cuyo uso es la construcción, al que se le han añadido fibras naturales, como la madera y artificiales, como la fibra de basalto y la de vidrio, además un compuesto polimérico a base de 3 elementos cotidianos, polivinilo de acetato, bicarbonato sódico y una disolución de ácido bórico, el comúnmente conocido “SLIME”. Se confeccionaron probetas con porcentajes de 7.5% y 10% del peso del yeso, siguiendo la proporción con los otros componentes. Las fibras se añadieron en base al volumen. Como referencia se confeccionaron probetas sin adición de los componentes poliméricos y sin fibras. Fueron ensayadas en laboratorio y se determinaron las características físicas y mecánicas de estas. Tras el análisis comparativo se evidencia que la adición del SLIME reduce la densidad del material, mejora la resistencia térmica y mantiene unas propiedades mecánicas bastante similares a la del yeso tradicional. Las fibras, además, aportan resistencia extra, lo que se traduce en una mejora de las características del nuevo material respecto al ya existente.AbstractThis document collects the results and the comparative analysis of the study of lighting in a room of a house. The study is developed using three data analysis systems, one in situ, one in a model and the other through virtual simulation. The 4 possible orientations have been studied both in the computer model and in the mock-up, making measurements at 3 different hours of the day, namely, at 9:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The tests have been carried out in the month of May with a duration of 1 week. The results showed that the current orientation of the room is not bad to achieve the required values according to the type of use. The results of the other measurements showed lack of lighting in some sections and excess lighting in others.
Aplicaciones de la nanotecnología en arquitectura e inspirándose en ella en diseños innovadores = Applications of nanotechnology in architecture and inspiring by it in innovative designs
Authors: Babaeyan-Ahmadia Hamidreza , Gallego-Sánchez-Torija Jorge
Published: September 2022

A principios del tercer milenio dC, se prometió a la nanotecnología otra Revolución Industrial, conocida como la cuarta ola de la Revolución Industrial. Muchos investigadores, como John MacLane Johansen, Calatrava…, creen que en un futuro cercano, todos los objetos se fabricarán sobre la base de la nano escala y sus propiedades se formarán en esa escala, y la producción de todos los objetos hechos a mano cambiará. Por lo tanto, la transformación de los materiales de construcción y la tecnología de la construcción parece posible y sus efectos en la arquitectura deben examinarse a partir de ahora. Este artículo pretende estudiar los efectos de la nanotecnología en el campo de la arquitectura mediante el estudio del uso de nanomateriales y el cambio de la estructura de las células y la forma arquitectónica. La nano arquitectura puede inspirarse en la nanotecnología, que produce una variedad de efectos. La nanotecnología tendrá un gran impacto en los materiales de construcción y sus propiedades, pero la inspiración de los arquitectos en las estructuras de nanopartículas también es importante porque es una gran fuente de conceptos para inspirar el diseño arquitectónico que puede mostrar una arquitectura extraordinaria. Por lo tanto, nano puede considerarse como un elemento en la evolución de la arquitectura en términos de función y forma que puede moverse en línea con la última tecnología en el mundo.AbstractAt the beginning of the third millennium AD, nanotechnology has been promised another Industrial Revolution, known as the fourth wave of the Industrial Revolution. Many researchers same John MacLane Johansen, Calatrava…, believe that soon, all objects will be made on the basis of the nanoscale and their properties will be formed on that scale, and the production of all handmade objects will change. Therefore, the transformation of building materials and construction technology seems possible and its effects on architecture should be examined from now on. This article intends to study the effects of nanotechnology in the field of architecture by studying the use of nano-based materials and changing the structure of cells and architectural form. Nano architecture can be inspired by nanotechnology, which produces a variety of effects. Nanotechnology will have a great impact on building materials and their properties, but architects' inspiration from nanoparticle structures is also important because it is a huge source of concepts in inspiring architectural design that can display extraordinary architecture. Therefore, nano can be considered as an element in the evolution of architecture in terms of function and form that can move in line with the latest technology in the world.
Demystifying the Preventive Measures for Flooding from Groundwater Triggered by the Rise in Adjacent River Stage
Authors: Kumar Raaghul , Yazdan Munshi Md. Shafwat , Mehedi Md Abdullah Al
Published: September 2022

Groundwater (GW) flooding mechanisms differ from river flooding both spatially and temporally, and preventative methods against groundwater flooding must take this into account. Although groundwater flooding caused by river water rise occurs seldom, it can occasionally become severe and last for a long time if the river is significantly flooded. In the southwest portion of the research domain, Friedrichshafen with a few urban communities, the level of the groundwater table was discovered to be roughly 1 m below the surface. It was discovered that the urban settlement area only has one-story buildings. In the study region, it is typical for the single-story building's foundation bottom level to extend up to a depth of about 1.5 meters. Therefore, flood mitigation methods are taken into account for the southwest portion of the study region. The installation of a pumping well, drainage, and a barrier in the affected area are three different flood control strategies that are taken into consideration for the study area. From a technical and cost-benefit perspective, installing a pumping well that withdraws water and lowers the groundwater table was found to be the most effective flood control measure locally in a small region (e.g., 1km x 1km). By contrast, removing groundwater by building drainage and barriers was also shown to be ineffective to lower the groundwater table over an extended region and was significantly more expensive than the installation of wells. Additionally, when river flooding is taken into account compared to the default scenario where no intake of water from the river is included along the western border of the study area, it is discovered that the spread of pollution is significantly greater.
Workload effect on Adversity Quotient through Emotional Quotient as Intervening Variable in Palu City Supermarket
Authors: Mahardiana Lina , Kaseng Saharuddin , Kornelius Yobert
Published: September 2022

This study aims to examine the workload of employees that affect the adversity quotient either directly or indirectly through the emotional quotient as an intervening variable. The research participants were 108 supermarket employees in Palu City who were taken randomly from 26 supermarket outlets which were taken according to their proportions. The results obtained indicate that the effect of workload on the adversity quotient can be weakened if there is an emotional quotient that affects the workload and adversity quotient. In conclusion, this study provides a different perspective on the adversity quotient in the work environment. Another scientific addition is that the emotional quotient can be an adversity quotient reinforcement for individuals to survive the workload. It is possible that other quotients can strengthen the role of the adversity quotient in the world of work.
Fort McCoy firing ranges and military training lands : a history and analysis
Authors: Story Madison , Smith Adam , Adams Sunny
Published: September 2022

The US Congress codified the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), the nation’s most effective cultural resources legislation to date, mostly through establishing the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The NHPA requires Federal agencies to address their cultural resources, which are defined as any prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure, or object. Section 110of the NHPA requires Federal agencies to inventory and evaluate their cultural resources, and Section 106 requires them to determine the effect of Federal undertakings on those potentially eligible for the NRHP. Fort McCoy is entirely within Monroe County in west-central Wisconsin. It was first established as the Sparta Maneuver Tract in 1909.The post was renamed Camp McCoy in 1926. Since 1974, it has been known as Fort McCoy. This report provides a historic context for ranges, features, and buildings associated with the post’s training lands in support of Section 110 of the NHPA.
Perfusion of brain and viscera using modified retrograde cerebral perfusion for aortic arch surgery
Authors: Yu Xiang , Lin Jing , Xiong Jiyue , Liu Xiali , Tang Zongcheng , Du Lei
Published: September 2022

Background: Retrograde cerebral perfusion provides a similar neuroprotective effect as antegrade cerebral perfusion during hypothermic circulatory arrest. Neither of them, however, provides blood flow for the abdominal viscera.
Methods: Here we reported a modified retrograde cerebral perfusion by tethering both superior and inferior vena cava with bands around the cannula and clamping the distal ends of both superior and inferior vena caval drainage tubes. Modified retrograde cerebral perfusion (mRCP)was performed in 8 patients.
Results: During mRCP, retrograde perfusion flow was maintained at 3.8±1.8 mL min-1 kg-1 to keep central venous pressure at 21±2 mm Hg. Removing the cross-clamp of the distal end of the inferior vena caval drainage tube, eliminated blood flow in the liver and kidney, while cerebral blood flow decreased from 21.5 to 16 cm/sec.
Conclusions: It is suggested that this technique may increase cerebral blood flow, and provide a supplementary blood flow for the lower body during circulatory arrest.
Dry EEG measurement of P3 to evaluate cognitive load during sitting, standing, and walking
Authors: Swerdloff Margaret , Hargrove Levi
Published: September 2022

Combining brain imaging with dual-task paradigms provides a quantitative, direct metric of cognitive load that is agnostic to the motor task. To better understand the impact of cognitive load during activities of daily living, we measured brain activity from a dry electroencephalography headset as participants attended to a stimulus paradigm eliciting event-related potentials during sitting, standing, and walking. The stimulus paradigm consisted of an auditory oddball task in which they had to report the number of oddball tones that were heard during each motor task. The P3 event-related potential, which is inversely proportional to cognitive load, was extracted from electroencephalographic signals in each condition. Results showed that P3 was significantly lower during walking compared to sitting (p = .039), indicating that cognitive load was higher during walking compared to the other activities. No significant differences in P3 were found between sitting and standing. Head motion did not have a significant impact on the measurement of cognitive load. These results encourage the use of a dry electroencephalography system to further investigate cognitive load during dynamic activities in individuals with and without motor impairments.
Pinacidil postconditioning activates HIF-1/HRE signaling and alleviate myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Zhou WenJing , Li Jin , Chen Wei , Zhang Lin , Yu Tian , Zhang Yu , Wang Haiying
Published: September 2022

Background
Myocardium ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury can be fatal in cardiac operations. Pinacidil postconditioning (PPO) could effectively alleviate I/R injury. however, the mechanisms are still not clear. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) acted as a mediator of ischemic postconditioning and protected the heart against the detrimental acute I/R injury. This study aims at observing the effects of PPO on I/R injury, and exploring the function of HIF-1/hypoxia response element (HRE) pathway in PPO’s myocardial protective effects.
Methods and Results
HIF-1α inhibitor 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2), and mitoKATP channel blocker 5-hydroxy decanoic acid (5-HD) were given before PPO to evaluate the contribution of HIF-1α and mitoKATP respectively. Cardiac function parameters (HR, LVDP, LVEDP, and dp/dtmax), infarct size, and myocardium and mitochondrial ultrastructure were evaluated. Additionally, expression of HIF-1α, and HRE related genes, i.e., VEGF, iNOS and HO-1，were detected. PPO not only improved cardiac function and ultrastructure of I/R hearts, but also reduced the infarct size in the I/R heart. In addition, PPO increased the expression of HRE related genes. These protective effects of PPO were partially reversed by HIF-1α inhibitor, and completely reversed by mitoKATP channel blocker.
Conclusion
These results indicate that PPO protects I/R myocardium depending on mitoKATP opening and HIF-1/HRE pathway.
Quality of Life Outcomes 3 Years Post Bariatric Surgery: Roux-en-y Gastric Bypass Vs. One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass
Authors: Alfonso-Ballester Raquel , Kasyanchuk Ilona , Oliver Isabel Mora , Fischer Gabriel Kraus , Fernández Rosa Martí , Rodríguez María Lapeña , Fernández Norberto Cassinello , Serrano Joaquín Ortega
Published: September 2022

Background: Laparoscopic One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass and Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric Bypass are two of the most common bariatric techniques. We compared quality of life in both procedures, assessing pre-operative and long term post-operative differences in quality of life, physical activity level and psychosocial functioning in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.
Methods: A prospective cohort study including obese patients undergoing either Laparoscopic One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass or Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric Bypass. The Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) questionnaires were administered at 3 months preoperatively and 3 years after surgery, while the third, the Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System (BAROS), was administered only postoperatively.
Results: A total of 41 patients were included in the study. Statistically significant differences were found between the Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II and QIGLI scores taken at both time points, across the entire cohort (p= 0.001 and p= 0.001, respectively); and between the results taken at 3 years postoperatively in the BAROS test (p= 0.001) for the entire cohort. There were no significant differences between Laparoscopic One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass and Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric Bypass groups in the questionnaire scores (Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II: p=0.526, QIGLI: p=0.990 and BAROS: p=0.753).
Conclusions: Bariatric surgery improves quality of life in operated patients, without significant differences between Laparoscopic One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass and Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric Bypass techniques. Patients undergoing bariatric surgery develop higher physical activity levels, and long-term improvements in the psychosocial domain are observed over time.
Analysis and prediction of carbon balance in production-living-ecological space of Henan Province, China
Authors: Li Xiao , Wang Yinghan , wu kening , Feng Zhe
Published: September 2022

As the carrier of human economic activities, the change of territorial space affects the level of regional carbon balance. Therefore, with regional carbon balance as the goal, this paper proposed a framework from the perspective of production-living-ecological space and took Henan Province of China as a study area for empirical research. Firstly, the study area established an accounting inventory that considers nature, society, and economic activities to calculate carbon sequestration/emission. Then, the spatio-temporal pattern of carbon balance was analyzed by ArcGIS from 1995 to 2015. Later, the CA-MCE-Markov model was used to simulate the production-living-ecological space pattern in 2035, and carbon balance in three future scenarios was predicted. The study showed that from 1995 to 2015, the living space gradually expanded, and the aggregation rose while the production space decreased. Carbon sequestration (CS) was less than carbon emission (CE) and presented an unbalanced state of negative income in 1995, while CS exceeded CE and showed a positive income imbalance in 2015. In 2035, living space has the highest carbon emission capacity under Natural Change Scenario (NC), while ecological space has the highest carbon sequestration capacity under Ecological Protection Scenario (EP), and production space has the highest carbon sequestration capacity under Food Security Scenario (FS). The results are crucial for understanding the carbon balance changes in territorial space and supporting regional carbon balance goals in the future.
Clinical and paraclinical parameters in COVID-19 patients with nephrological disorders
Authors: AziziKia Hani , kia Vahid , Karim Bardia , Gilkalaei Parsa Rezvani , Doudaran Pooya Jafari , Farid Armita , Amini Yasin Naeemi , Talebi Solmaz
Published: September 2022

Background: In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between kidney patients’ COVID-19 status and their symptoms, laboratory values, and ICU admission status. We also evaluated the association between COVID-19-positive kidney patients’ age, gender, smoking status, history of underlying diseases and urea and creatinine levels, and their ICU admission status and mortality. Finally, we analyzed the differences in laboratory values in kidney patients with and without a history of diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 253 patients with a history of kidney disease were included. COVID-19 was diagnosed by positive RT-qPCR. Symptoms, laboratory findings, and outcomes were extracted from the patients’ records and statistically investigated.
Results: Fever, chills, myalgia, arthralgia, cough, anorexia, nausea, fatigue, headache, mental status deterioration, and smoking were more common in COVID-19-positive kidney patients compared to COVID-19-negative ones. White blood cells (WBC), platelets, and urea were lower and hemoglobin and hematocrit were higher in the former group. WBC, urea, and blood sugar (BS) levels were higher in kidney patients with a history of cardiovascular disease compared to kidney patients without such a history. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) was lower in the former group. Hemoglobin and hematocrit were lower in diabetic kidney patients compared to non-diabetic kidney patients. BS, triglycerides, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were higher in the former group. History of underlying diseases and abnormal creatinine was associated with increased ICU admission and age ≥ 50, male gender and abnormal creatinine were associated with increased mortality in COVID-19-positive kidney patients.
Conclusions: Smoking cessation should be encouraged in kidney patients. Fever, chills, myalgia, arthralgia, cough, anorexia, nausea, fatigue, headache, and mental status deterioration in kidney patients can indicate COVID-19 infection. Monitoring WBC and platelet counts in COVID-19-positive kidney patients, WBC, urea, and BS in kidney patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, and ESR, triglycerides, and hemoglobin in diabetic kidney patients can prove beneficial in their management. Age, gender, history of underlying diseases, and creatinine levels can be important prognostic markers in COVID-19-positive kidney patients.
A self-microemulsion enhances oral absorption of Docetaxel by inhibiting P-glycoprotein and CYP metabolism
Authors: Tong Le , Zhou ZeYang , Wang Gang , Wu Chao
Published: September 2022

Oral absorption of docetaxel was limited by drug efflux pump p-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450 enzyme (CYP 450). Therefore, co-loading agent that inhibits P-gp and CYP 450 in self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEs) is considered as a promising strategy for oral delivery of docetaxel. In this study, curcumin was selected as an inhibitor of P-gp and CYP 450, and it was coencapsuled in SMEs to improve the oral bioavailability of docetaxel. SMEs quickly dispersed in water within 20 seconds, and the droplet size was 32.23 ± 2.21 nm. The release rate of curcumin from DC-SMEs was higher than that of docetaxel in vitro. Compared with free docetaxel, SMEs significantly increased the permeability of docetaxel by 4.6 times. And competitive experiments showed that the increased permeability was the result of inhibition of p-gp. The half-life and oral bioavailabilty of DC-SMEs increased about 1.7 times and 1.6 times than docetaxel SMEs, which indicated that its good pharmacokinetic behavior was releated to the restriction of hepatic first-pass metabolism. In conclusion, DC-SMEs was an ideal platform to facilitate oral delivery of docetaxel through inhibited P-gp and CYP 450.
Predictive Factors of Renal Failure in Covid 19 Patients at the Anti-covid Center in Lome, Togo
Authors: SABI Kossi Akomola , KOTOSSO Awéréou , AMEKOUDI Yoan Makafui , KAZA Béfa NOTO – KADOU – , BLATOME Laune Odilon , DOLAAMA Badomta , SABI Ayodélé Jonathan , GBAHBANG Oscar GNIRIMI , AFFO Loutou Ahoub-Laye , VIGAN Jacques
Published: September 2022

Background: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 has been identified as the receptor that allows the entry of SarsCov2 into the human cell. Its expression in the kidney is 100 times higher than in the lung; thus, making the kidney an excellent target for SarsCov2 infection manifesting as renal failure (RF). The objective of this study was to determine the predictive factors of RF during covid-19 in the Togolese context.
Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive and analytical study conducted at the Lomé Anti-Covid Center including the records of patients hospitalized for covid 19, of age ≥ 18 years and having performed a creatinemia. RF was defined by a GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 calculated according to the MDRD formula. Patients were randomized into 2 groups according to GFR<60 or not. Statistical tests used were Pearson's Chi-2 test or Fisher's exact test for qualitative variables and Mann-Whitney test or Wilcoxon test for quantitative variables. The significance level was set at 0.05. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed to search for associated factors.
Results: 482 patients were selected for this study with a mean age of 58.02 years. Sixty-five percent of the patients were men, i.e., a sex ratio of 1.88. Fifty-two patients had RF, i.e., a frequency of 10.8%. There were 65% men (315 cases), for a sex ratio (M/F) of 1.88. Risk factors for renal failure in covid-19 were age ≥ 65 years (ORa 2.42; CIa95% [1.17 - 4.95]; p=0.016), anemia (ORa 2.49; CIa95% [1.21 - 5.26]; p=0.015), moderate (ORa 13; CIa95% [2.30 - 2.44]; p=0.017), severe (ORa 26.2; CIa95% [4.85 - 4.93]; p= 0.002) and critical (ORa 108; CIa95% [16.5 - 21.76]; p<0.001) severity stages at admission.
Conclusion: Renal failure would therefore be related to the severity of covid 19 and is the most formidable factor, conditioning the course of the disease and the patient's vital prognosis.
Regular Lung Recruitment Maneuvers during High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation in Extremely Preterm Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Werther Tobias , Kueng Erik , Aichhorn Lukas , Pummer Linda , Goeral Katharina , Berger Angelika , Hermon Michael , Klebermass-Schrehof Katrin
Published: September 2022

Background
Lung recruitment maneuvers (LRMs) improve lung volume at initiation of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV), but it is unclear when to repeat LRMs. We evaluated the efficiency of scheduled LRMs.
Methods
In a randomized controlled trial, extremely preterm infants on HFOV received either LRMs at 12-hour intervals and when clinically indicated (intervention) or only when clinically indicated (control). The primary outcome was the cumulative oxygen saturation index (OSI) over HFOV time, limited to 7 days. Additionally, LRMs were analyzed with respect to OSI improvement.
Results
Fifteen infants were included in each group. The median (range) postmenstrual age and weight at HFOV start were 24+2 (23+0, 27+6) weeks and 615 (435, 920) g. The mean (SD) cumulative OSI was 4.95 (1.72) in the intervention versus 5.30 (2.08) in the control group (p=0.61). The mean (SD) number of LRMs in 12 hours was 1.3 (0.2) in the intervention versus 1.1 (0.5) in the control group (p=0.13). Performing LRM when FiO2>0.6 resulted in a mean OSI reduction of 3.6.
Conclusion
Regular versus clinically indicated LRMs were performed with equal frequency in preterm infants during HFOV, and consequently, no difference in lung volume was observed. LRMs seem to be most efficient at high FiO2.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04289324 (28/02/2020).
Scrutinizing a superconductor-topological insulator interface
as a platform for topological superconductivity
Authors: Rüßmann Philipp , Blügel Stefan
Published: September 2022

Interfacing a topological insulator (TI) with an s-wave superconductor (SC) is a promising material platform that offers the possibility to realize a topological superconductor through which Majorana-based topologically protected qubits can be engineered. In our computational study of the prototypical SC/TI interface between Nb and Bi2Te3, we identify the benefits and possible bottlenecks of this potential Majorana material platform. Bringing Nb in contact with the TI film induces charge doping from the SC to the TI, which shifts the Fermi level into the TI conduction band. For thick TI films, this results in band bending leading to the population of trivial TI quantum-well states at the interface. In the superconducting state, we uncover that the topological surface state experiences a sizable superconducting gap-opening at the SC/TI interface, which is furthermore robust against fluctuations of the Fermi energy. We also show that the trivial interface state is only marginally proximitized, potentially obstructing the realization of Majorana-based qubits in this material platform.
Reliable biomarkers for decreased spatial navigation in the Young People with Obesity: Increased serum CRP and QUIN levels
Authors: Kucukkarapinar Melike , Simsek Gokcenur , Ucar Onder , Koca Arzu Or , Yetkin İlhan , Cosar Behcet
Published: September 2022

Background: Obesity is increasing morbidity and mortality. Obesity and cognitive impairment research have focused on the negative consequences of obesity-related medical diseases on cognition. This study aimed to examine the effect of obesity on spatial navigation, and the relationship between changes in tryptophan kynurenine metabolites and spatial navigation in the people with obesity between 18 and 35 years of age.
Methods: In 29 adults with obesity and 25 normal weight adults, we examined plasma levels of CRP, leptin, kynurenine (KYN), tryptophan (TRP), kynurenic acid (KYNA), 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), and quinolinic acid (QUIN), as well as the TRP/KYN, KYNA/3-HK, and KYNA/QUIN ratios. Body and abdominal fat composition (AFC) were also examined. The EAT-26 was used to assess eating attitudes. We used Montreal cognitive assessment (MOCA), Reaction Time (RT), Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (RCFT), and Virtual-Reality-Based Route-Learning Test with subtests Route repetition task (RPT), Route retraction task (RRT), Directional-approach task (DAT) to measure cognitive abilities.
Results: In participants with obesity, the EAT-26 score was higher (p= 0.006), but the MOCA total score (p=0.03) and RCFT copy subscale score (p=0.03), as well as the RPT (p< 0,001), RRT p= 0,004), and DAT (p< 0,001) percentage of correct answers, was lower than normal-weight participants. The QUIN was found to be a negative predictor of RRT (B=-7.29, CI: -12.98, -1.59, -0.31, p=0.01) and DAT (B=-6.15, CI: -9.83, -2.46, p=0.002), while AFC was a negative predictor of RPT (B=-1.01, CI: -1.47, -0.55, p< 0.001). CRP was likewise greater in participants with obesity and a negative predictor of RRT (B=-7.96, CI: -14.30, -1.62, p=0.02) and DAT (B=-9.25, CI: -16.34, -2.17, p=0.012).
Discussion: The performance of participants with obesity without comorbidities was worse on visuospatial tests than healthy controls. QUIN and CRP may also help identify new serum biomarkers of poor visuospatial cognition in young adults with obesity
The Nightmares of International Medical Students - A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Janjua Jamilah R. , Janjua Riaz S. , Ali Sarah , Al-Eraky Mohamed M. , Khattak Osama , Issrani Rakhi , Iqbal Azhar
Published: September 2022

Background: International medical students face challenges and stress in host countries, yet limited evidence is available on their perceptions of these experiences.
Objectives: This study explored the difficulties faced by international students undergoing medical studies in Pakistan, by portraying their lived experiences.
Methodology: This is a phenomenological study using semi-structured interviews with students in four different colleges of Pakistan. The participants had completed their previous schooling overseas and had families living overseas. The interviews took place face to face or through video calls.
Results: A total of 20 MBBS students were interviewed. The main stressors and difficulties faced by international medical students in Pakistan were related to cultural shock, loneliness and isolation, as well as an inability to cope. Loneliness and cultural shock were experienced by most of the participants, yet its implications were not always that severe. However, coping difficulties were experienced by a lesser number of students, yet it disturbed them to the degree that they had to get psychiatric support, and were even on the verge of dropping out and returning home.
Conclusion: The difficulties and challenges faced by international students who are in Pakistan for their studies, unless addressed, would definitely be discouraging for future generations of students, to follow in their footsteps.
Modification and application of highly active alkaline pectin lyase
Authors: Li Pi-Wu , Ma Jun , Wei Xiao-Feng , Zhang Zi-Yang , Wang Rui-Ming , Xiao Jing , Wang Jun-Qing
Published: September 2022

Alkaline pectate lyase has developmental prospects in the textile, pulp, paper, and food industries. In this study, we selected BacPelA, the pectin lyase with the highest expression activity from Bacillus clausii, modified and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). Through fragment replacement, the catalytic activity of the enzyme was significantly improved. The optimum pH and temperature of the modified pectin lyase (PGLA-rep4) were 11.0 and 70℃, respectively. It also exhibited a superior ability to cleave methylated pectin. The enzyme activity of PGLA-rep4, measured at 235 nm with 0.2% apple pectin as the substrate, was 554.0 U/mL, and the specific enzyme activity after purification using a nickel column was 822.9 U/mg. After approximately 20 ns of molecular dynamics simulation, the structure of the pectin lyase PGLA-rep4 tended to be stable. The Root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) values at the key catalytically active site, LYS168, were higher than those of the wildtype PGLA. In addition, PGLA-rep4 was relatively stable in the presence of metal ions. PGLA-rep4 has good enzymatic properties and activities and maintains a high pH and temperature. This study provides a successful strategy for enhancing the catalytic activity of PGLA-rep4, making it the ultimate candidate for degumming and various uses in the pulp, paper, and textile industries.
Mapping and Forecasting the Land Surface Temperature in Response to the Land Use and Land Cover Changes using Machine Learning over the Southernmost Municipal Corporation of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: J Aran Castro A , K Nijanthan , M Babu Vignesh , A Ganesh Kumar , P Raj Kumar , Antony Justine K , P Suganthan
Published: September 2022

In this decade, global warming and urbanisation have become fundamental problems. Numerous locations have experienced a temperature increase that has negatively affected the ecosystem. Land surface temperature (LST) is a valuable parameter for studying temperature variation because it is closely correlated with land use and land cover (LULC). This study combines Machine Learning, Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to detect the spatial variation of LST and quantify its relationship with LULC in the near past, present and the near future. The Nagercoil Municipal Corporation (The Southernmost Municipal Corporation of Tamil Nadu, India) was chosen as the study area to explore the relationship between LST and LULC. The region is one of the rapidly urbanising areas in Tamil Nadu, India. From 2014 to 2022, three scenes of Landsat 8 OLI and 9 OLI-2 LULC and LST data were extracted. Markov chain analysis (MCA) is adopted in this study to predict the future LULC and LST of the study. Pearson’s correlation method has been adopted and is used in the study to determine the correlation of the LULC and LST. For the years 2014, 2017, and 2022, it was determined that the overall accuracy of the LULC map was 0.87, 0.92, and 0.88, respectively, with the Kappa coefficient of 0.85,0.91, and 0.88. The Kappa coefficient values (above 0.85) indicate that the LULC data produced by the MLC procedure have a high enough accuracy to be useful for analysing LULC and identifying changes. The correlation of LULC and LST is an essential metric for identifying and quantifying the higher temperature areas with urban development. These metrics can be incorporated into advanced UHI detection models and machine learning algorithms for more precise and accurate identification and quantification of Urban Heat Island zones. We propose that urban land use measures and urban land planning be informed by continuous and detailed Remote Sensing and GIS combined with statistical modelling and analysis of LULC and LST. Possible actions by the policymakers include the conservation of agricultural and vegetated lands, as well as the management of the reclamation of barren lands into croplands, to prevent surface impermeability loss and ecosystem fragmentation. Protecting the existing waterbodies is also advised in the study.
Amine-Functionalized Lignin as an Eco-Friendly Antioxidant for Rubber Compounds
Authors: Chung June-Young , Hwang Uiseok , Kim Junyoung , Kim Na-Yeon , Nam Jeonghyeon , Jung Jinho , Kim Sung-Hoon , Cho Jung Keun , Lee Bumhee , Park In-Kyung , Suhr Jonghwan , Nam Jae-Do
Published: September 2022

Although the typical antioxidant, N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N’-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD), ensures high durability and long lifespan for rubber compounds, it generates a highly toxic quinone in water, causing a serious environmental pollution. Herein, as an alternative material of 6PPD, we newly introduce eco-friendly amine-functionalized lignin (AL) to be incorporated in rubber, which can provide excellent combinatorial anti-aging properties of thermal stability and ozone/fatigue resistances through radical scavenging effect. The heterolytic ring-opening reaction of AL and sulfur can accelerate curing and improve crosslink density by 28% (v, 4.107 × 10−4 mol/cm3), consequently reducing ozone vulnerable areas of the matrix, and further improving aging resistance. Notably, AL allows its rubber compound to exhibit superior anti-ozone performance after ozone aging, with the arithmetic surface roughness (Sa) of 2.077 μm, which should be compared to that of 6PPD (4.737 μm). The developed chemically modified lignin and the methodology have enormous potential as a promising additive for the future eco-friendly rubber compounds.
A novel prognostic model based on pyroptosis-related genes for multiple myeloma
Authors: Zhang Cuiling , Wu Sungui , Chen Bing
Published: September 2022

Background:Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable, relapse-prone disease with apparent prognostic heterogeneity. At present, the risk stratification of myeloma is still incomplete. Pyroptosis, a type of programmed cell death, has been shown to regulate tumor growth, and may have potential prognostic value. However, the role of pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) in MM remains undetermined. The aim of this study was to to identify potential prognostic biomarkers and construct a predictive model related to PRGs.Methods:Sequencing and clinical data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) was performed to identify molecular subtypes screening. LASSO regression was used to screen for prognostic markers. Maxstat package was utilized to calculate the optimal cutoff value for the risk score's ability. Patients were then divided into high/low risk groups depending on the cutoff value, and survival curves were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) method. The nomogram and a calibration curve of the multi-factor model was established using the rms package.Results:A total of 33 PRGs were extracted from TCGA database underlying which 4 MM molecular subtypes were defined. Patients in cluster 1 had poorer survival than those in cluster 2 (p= 0.035), and the infiltration degree of many immune cells was the opposite in these two clusters. A total of 9 PRGs were screened out as prognostic markers, and the risk score consisting of which had the best predictive ability of 3-year survival (AUC=0.658). Patients in the high-risk group have worse survival than those in the low-risk group (p＜ 0.0001), consisting of the results verified by GSE2658 dataset. The nomogram constructed by gender, age, ISS stage and risk score had the better prognostic predictive performance with a c-index of 0.721.Conclusions:Our model could enhance the predictive ability of ISS staging and give a reference for clinical decision-making. The new prognostic pyroptosis-related markers in MM screened out by us may facilitate the development of novel risk stratification for MM.Clinical trial registration:Not applicable.
Sinularin stabilizes FOXO3 protein to trigger prostate cancer cell intrinsic apoptosis
Authors: Meng Xiang-yu , Wang Ke-jie , Ye Sha-zhou , Chen Jun-feng , Chen Zhao-yu , Zhang Zuo-yan , Li Yi , Yu Rui , Ma Qi
Published: September 2022

Background Sinularin, a natural product that purified from soft coral, exhibits anti-tumor effects against various human cancers. However, the mechanisms are not well understood. Methods The inhibition of cell viability by Sinularin on human prostate cancer cells were detected by MTS assay. Flow cytometry, selective caspase inhibitors, western blot, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, Δψm) analysis and preparation of subcellular fractions were used to detect Sinularin-induced tumor cell intrinsic apoptosis. Immunofluorescence staining analysed FOXO3 protein level and subcellular localization. FOXO3 ubiquitination and protein interction between FOXO3 and 14-3-3 were detected by immunoprecipitation. The specific protein kinase activators (unique specific AKT activator SC79, selective ERK1/2 activator TBHQ) were used to reveal whether Sinularin stabilized and up-regulated FOXO3 via AKT and ERK1/2-mediated FOXO3 phosphorylation. Results Sinularin inhibited the viability of human prostate cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner but did not show significant toxicity against normal prostate epithelial cell RWPE-1. Flow cytometry assay demonstrated that Sinularin induced tumor cell apoptosis. Further investigations revealed that Sinularin exerted anti-tumor activity through intrinsic apoptotic pathway along with up-regulation of pro-apoptotic protein Bax and PUMA, inhibition of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, mitochondrial membrane potential collapses, and release of mitochondrial proteins. Furthermore, we illustrated that Sinularin induced cell apoptosis via up-regulating PUMA through inhibition of FOXO3 degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. To explore how Sinularin suppress FOXO3 ubiquitin-proteasome degradation, we tested two important protein kinases AKT and ERK1/2 that regulate FOXO3 stabilization. The results revealed that Sinularin stabilized and up-regulated FOXO3 via inhibition of AKT- and ERK1/2-mediated FOXO3 phosphorylation and subsequent ubiquitin-proteasome degradation. Conclusions Our findings illustrated the potential mechanisms by which Sinularin induced cell apoptosis and Sinularin may be applied as a therapeutic agent for human prostate cancer.
Particles Generated from Degrading Magnesium Implants Induce Bone Resorption
Authors: Sun Yu , Yuan Kai , Lou Jie , Yu Jinlong , Yu Han , Peng Zhaoxiang , Dong Xieping , Hou Peng , Zan Rui , Peng Hongzhou , Kang Xinbao , Wang Wenhui , Song Yang , Zhang Xiaonong
Published: September 2022

Background
Magnesium (Mg) is regarded as “revolutionary orthopedic material” due to its excellent properties. In the frontier of clinical translation of biodegradable Mg, most researchers have found cavities between bone tissue and Mg-based implants which limit the use of Mg. These cavities were regarded to be formed due to H2 gas generated from the rapid degradation of Mg. However, this explanation still lacks direct evidence. In this study, we come up with a new hypothesis aim to explain the cavities formation around the Mg-based implants.
Methods
The slightly soluble degradation particles (DPs) of high purity magnesium (HP-Mg) were prepared by electrochemical method. The effects of DPs on osteoclasts formation, polarization, and osteoclast bone resorption in vitro and in vivo were investigated.
Results
The results revealed that DPs could induce osteoclast formation. The DPs promoted the activation of both NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways and the expression of osteoclast-specific genes and proteins were upregulated. At the same time, DPs also could accelerate calvarial bone resorption of mice.
Conclusions
These results confirmed that the presence of DPs could induce bone resorption both in vitro and in vivo, discovering a new explanation for cavities around Mg-based implants. This discovery inspires new solutions to solve the cavity problem.