bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Androgen regulated protein and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 in severe erectile dysfunction: A gene expression analysis, and computational study of protein structure
Authors: Kazemi Elham , Zargooshi Javaad , Dehpahni Mozhgan Fatahi , Mohammadi Motlagh Hamid-Reza , Kaboudi Marzieh , Kahrizi Danial , Khazaie Habibolah , Mahaki Behzad , Mohammadian Youkhabeh , Yazdani Leila
Published: November 2021

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common sexual disorders in men. During the past 30 years, there has been no new drug development for ED. Thus, exploring the genetic basis of ED deserves further study, in hope of developing new pharmacological treatments for ED. In this study, Real-Time PCR analysis was used to assess the expression of androgen regulatory protein (Andpro) and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (Pdk4) genes in ED. For this purpose, the experiment was performed on 20 men with severe ED and 20 potent men. IIEF-15 was used to determine the ED severity. The study was conducted in the Department of Sexual Medicine of the Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran. The EDTA-Na vacuum blood tube was taken from ED patients and controls. Informed consent was obtained from all participants. After blood sampling, RNA was extracted from whole blood. Then cDNA was synthesized. The gene expression was analyzed through the qPCR method. The ß-actin was used as a reference gene. To further study these two proteins, their three-dimensional structures were predicted through I-TASSER. Compared with controls, in ED patients, the expression of the Andpro gene decreased, while the expression of the Pdk4 gene increased (p<0.01). Predicting the structure of the protein showed that Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase 4 had a double subunit and androgen-regulated protein had a single subunit.
Effect of triptolide and chemotherapy on carcinoembryonic and carbohydrate antigens levels and first-line treatment of recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Liu Cui , Yuan Xiaolin , Liu Xiaobo , Liang Kuai , Ni Zhigang , Yu Gaoxin , Zhu Li
Published: November 2021

To investigate the first-line treatment of recurrent Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma treprimcab combined with chemotherapy. From January 2019 to January 2020, 48 patients with recurrent nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (RNPC) were treated in our hospital. According to the method of the random number, 24 patients were divided into the combined group and the Control Group. The patients in the combined group were given the Combined Treatment of triptolide and chemotherapy. While the Control Group only received chemotherapy. The therapeutic effects and adverse reactions of the two groups were compared, the levels of Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) were measured before and after treatment. The total effective rate of the combined group was 79.17% higher than that of the control group (62.50%). The total effective rate of the two groups was statistically significant (P & Lt; 0.05). The incidence of grade i/ii adverse reaction in the control group was lower than that in the combined group, such as nausea and vomiting, oral mucositis, Leukopenia, liver and kidney function damage, central granulocyte count reduction, anaemia adverse reaction. The incidence of grade iii/iv Adr in the control group was higher than that in the combined group. The incidence of grade i/ii Adr in the thrombocytopenia group was higher than that in the combined group, and the incidence of grade iii/iv Adr in the control group was lower than that in the combined group. The side effects of nausea and vomiting and oral mucositis in the control group and the combined group were statistically significant (P & Lt; 0.05). There was no significant difference between the control group and the combined group in the incidence of Leukopenia, liver and kidney injury, neutrophil, anaemia and Thrombocytopenia (P & GT; 0.05). The level of CD4 + / CD8 + in control group and combined group before treatment was higher than that after treatment (P & Lt; 0.05). The quality of life of the combined group was 91.67% higher than that of the control group (70.83%). The quality of life of the control group was significantly higher than that of the combined group (P & Lt; 0.05). The levels of CEA and CA19-9 in the two groups after treatment were lower than those before treatment, and the levels of CEA and CA19-9 in the combined group were lower than those in the control group (P & Lt; 0.05). The first-line treatment of recurrent nasopharyngeal Carcinoma with triprimmab combined with chemotherapy has a good clinical effect and has a broad clinical research prospect.
The role and correlation of IL-35 and type II intrinsic lymphocytes in children with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Huang Ligao , Zhao Min , Luo Qian , Liang Kuai , Iu Cui L
Published: November 2021

To investigate the role and correlation of IL-35 and ILC2 in children with allergic rhinitis. 50 cases of children with allergic rhinitis admitted to our hospital from February 2018 to March 2020 were selected as the research subjects and set as the study group. During the same period, 50 cases of normal children admitted to our hospital for physical examination were selected as the control group. The differences in the expression of IL-35 and ILC2 between the two groups and the correlation with the severity of allergic rhinitis were compared. In BMI, the study group was significantly lower than the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). IL-35 in the study group was significantly lower than that in the control group, while ILC2, IL4+ILC2, IL-5+ILC2, IL-13+ILC2, IgE and ECP in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed a moderate negative correlation between TNSS score and IL-35 (r =-0.642, P<0.05), was positively correlated with ILC2, IL4+ILC2, IL-5+ILC2, IL-13+ILC2, ECP (r =0.745, 0.713, 0.725, 0.769, 0.746, P<0.05), and was strongly correlated with IgE (r =0.952, P<0.05). Also, It was positively correlated with TGF-?1 (r =0.513, P<0.05). IL-35 was strongly negatively correlated with ILC2, IL4+ILC2, IL-5+ILC2, IL-13+ILC2 (r =-0.845, -0.812, -0.805, 0.823, -0.854, P<0.05). Was negatively correlated with ECP and TGF-?1 (r =-0.795, -0.543, P<0.05). ILC2 was strongly correlated with IgE (r =0.812, P<0.05), and moderately positively correlated with ECP and TGF-?1 (r =0.642, 0.541, P<0.05). ROC curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic value. The results showed that among the five indicators, IgE had the highest sensitivity of 92.23%, while IL-35 had the highest specificity of 92.56%. However, the combined area, sensitivity and specificity of the five indicators were the highest, 0.962, 95.18% and 94.25%, respectively (P<0.05). Both IL-35 and type II intrinsic lymphocytes are highly correlated with the severity of allergic rhinitis in children, the former is negatively correlated with the latter is positively correlated. The detection of these indexes in clinical practice can be helpful for clinical diagnosis.
Naringenin inhibits human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) by inducing programmed cell death, caspase stimulation, G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and suppresses cancer metastasis
Authors: Qi Zhaozhen , Kong Shuangxi , Zhao Shunyu , Tang Qiu
Published: November 2021

The current study was designed to unveil the anticancer effects of naringenin against breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells. Cytotoxic effects were estimated via MTT viability assay. Clonogenic assay was performed to assess clonogenic potential of MDA-MB-231 cells. Apoptosis was examined via AO/EB staining, quantified via annexin V/PI staining and western blotting was performed to monitor apoptosis allied protein expressions. Cell cycle was analyzed through flow cytometric analysis. Transwell chambers assay was executed for determination of cell migration and cell invasion tendency of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Results indicated significant anticancer potential of naringenin drug against MDA-MB-231 cells. On evaluation of cell proliferation rate of breast cancer cells by MTT assay, it was observed that naringenin inhibited proliferation rate in dose as well as time dependent manner. AO/EB staining assay revealed potential morphological changes indicating apoptotic cell death. Annexin V/PI staining assay revealed increased apoptotic cell percentage with increased drug doses. The apoptosis inducing potential of naringenin drug was observed to be mediated via caspase activation. Flow cytometric analysis predicted cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase of cell cycle. Further cell migration as well as cell invasion tendency of MDA-MB-231 cells was reduced to minimum upon application of naringenin drug.
Evaluating nitric oxide produced by rat inflamed microglial cell Lline, CHME-5, under the effect of IMOD
Authors: Wu Yu-Wei , Long Jun-Yao , Liu Xiao-Gang , Fan Hong-Qiao
Published: November 2021

Nitric oxide (NO), as a free radical, is produced by inflamed microglia cells and is one of the destructive factors of the immune system and a factor in myelin degradation. Therefore, inhibition of microglia activity is a chief strategy in reducing neurotoxic damage to the central nervous system. In this study, an herbal Immunomodulatory Drug (IMOD) was used to evaluate the effects of this drug in controlling the amount of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide induction was performed by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rat inflamed microglial cell line, CHME-5. ELISA test was used to measure the produced nitric oxide at 24, 48, and 72 hours. The results showed that the high concentrations of IMOD (1.2, and 4% V/V) had anti-inflammatory effects on microglial cells and were able to reduce the amount of nitric oxide in these cells but the effective dose of IMOD was in the range of 1.2% V/V. Therefore, the safest dose and the best time for the effect of IMOD on inflammatory cell groups are 1.2% V/V and 72h, respectively. Hence, with further studies, IMOD can be considered as an herbal anti-inflammatory drug that is effective in controlling neurodegenerative diseases.
Relationship between plasma cyclin-dependent kinase 5 levels and local immunoglobulin levels in patients with nasal polyps
Authors: Liu Cui , Luo Qian , Tang Yan , Yu Gaoxin , Liang Kuai , Huang Ligao
Published: November 2021

Nasal polyps are the most common benign nasal tumors that can lead to nasal obstruction and other annoying problems for the patient. Several hypotheses have been proposed as the basic mechanism of nasal polyps. In order to investigate one of the possible causes that can be a disorder in the regulation of systemic immune responses, the present study was designed to investigate the relationship between plasma cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) levels and local immunoglobulin levels in patients with nasal polyps. A cross-section study was used to evaluate concentrations of local immunoglobulin levels (IgE, IgM, IgA, and IgG) on blood and polyp specimens from 60 patients with nasal polyps, and 60 control groups. Western Blot Analysis was done for CDK5 in plasma cells. IgA, IgG and IgE concentrations were significantly higher in polyp tissue specimens, but not in blood, of nasal polyp patients compared to the control group. Furthermore, plasma CDK5 levels were significantly higher in nasal polyp tissue compared with control. The difference in IgA, IgE and IgG expression between nasal polyp tissue and blood, supported by increased numbers of plasma cells, suggests a local production of these local immunoglobulins in nasal polyps in response to chronic antigens. Among local immunoglobulins, only there was a significant correlation between CDK5 with IgG (positive correlation) and IgE (negative correlation). The exact explanation for the relationship between plasma CDK5 and local immunoglobulins in nasal polyps needs further studies.
Comparison between the molecular diagnostic test and chest X-ray combined with multi-slice spiral CT in the diagnosis of lobar pneumonia
Authors: Zhu Huiping , Dong Jianjun , Xie Xufeng , Wang Lei
Published: November 2021

Lobar pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lung that mainly affects the lobes of the lungs and the alveoli, and it is usually caused by a bacterial infection. There are many ways to diagnosis this disease. But an early and accurate method for lobar pneumonia diagnosis has an important role in its treatment. Therefore, in this study, a comparison between the molecular diagnostic test and chest x-ray combined with multi-slice spiral CT was done to find out better diagnosis of lobar pneumonia. For this purpose, 122 individuals suspected of lobar pneumonia were studied by clinical examination, chest X-ray, and multi-slice spiral CT. For the molecular diagnosis test, the multiplex PCR was used for two main causes of the disease, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Results showed that the specificity for Chest X-ray + Multi-slice Spiral CT had the highest amount (82.8%), but high sensitivity (100%) belonged to a molecular diagnostic test for both bacteria. On the other hand, the sensitivity and specificity of Streptococcus pneumoniae were better than Klebsiella pneumoniae and the possibility of error in Streptococcus pneumoniae was lower than Klebsiella pneumoniae. In general, although the Chest X-ray + Multi-slice Spiral CT method was better than the molecular diagnosis test, it could not identify the causative agent and did not show a difference between pathogens for better antibiotic treatment, and also the possibility of diagnosis is low at the beginning of the disease. Therefore, according to the results of the current study, the best way to diagnose lobar pneumonia is to use both methods, simultaneously.
The effect of Borago officinalis on the signaling pathway of the NLRP3 inflammasome complex, TLR4 and some inflammatory cytokines in type II diabetic patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Yue Yanqiu , Jin Fengbin , Yue Xiaohui
Published: November 2021

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition in which the lungs become severely inflamed, causing the alveoli to constrict or fill with fluid, which prevents the lungs from functioning properly. This disease becomes more dangerous when it occurs in patients with diabetes. Because of the clinical condition of these patients, it is not possible to treat them with usual medicines. One of the best options for treating these people is to use herbs. Borage (Borago officinalis) is a medicinal herb that, in addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, is also able to control blood sugar. Therefore, in the current study, the effect of borage oil was considered on the signaling pathway of the NLRP3 inflammasome complex, TLR4, and serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1? and IL-18) in type II diabetic patients with ARDS. For this purpose, 25 diabetic type II patients with ARDS were divided into three groups by ARDS Berlin Definition. Then, after providing the demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients, they were treated with 30 mg/day borage oil for seven days. The expression of NLRP3 and TLR4 genes (by Real-time PCR technique) and serum levels of IL-1? and IL-18 (by ELISA test) were evaluated before and after treatment with borage oil through blood samples taken from patients. The results showed that serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1? and IL-18), NLRP3 gene, and TLR4 gene were significantly decreased in diabetic type II patients with mild ARDS by treating with borage oil. IL-1? serum level and TLR4 were significantly decreased in diabetic type II patients with moderate ARDS. But there was not any significant decrease or increase in IL-1?, IL-18, NLRP3 gene, and TLR4 gene in diabetic type II patients with severe ARDS after 7 days of treatment with borage oil. According to the obtained results, borage oil can act as a double-edged blade. Thus, in the early and middle stages of ARDS, borage oil can be effective in reducing the inflammasome pathway of inflammation and also reduce blood sugar levels in these diabetic patients. But in the severe stage of ARDS, it not only does not help to treat the ARDS; it also increases systolic and diastolic blood pressure in diabetic patients.
Importance of miR-141-5p and miR-501-5P expression in patients with HBV infection
Authors: Lak Ramin , Yaghobi Ramin , Garshasbi Masoud
Published: November 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as small RNA and post-transcriptional modulators are shown to have regulatory effects for different cellular activities and pathways, such as metabolism, virus replication and also cell growth. In addition, miRNAs can regulate the replication of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Therefore, the expression profile of miRNAs was evaluated in HBV-infected patient groups and healthy controls. The expression levels of the following microRNAs (as noninvasive biomarkers) were compared in two experimental (those with various stages of HBV infection) and control groups to evaluate their diagnosis ability: mir141-5p and mir501-5p. RNA extraction was performed for 45 serum samples. The miRCURY LNA™ Universal RT-miRNA-PCR system and miRNA PCR panels were used for measuring microRNA expression profiles. To normalize quantitative values, the endogenous reference by UniSp6 expression was used. Serum mir141-5p and mir501-5 were significant None in patient in different stages of HBV infection(p<0.001) than in controls(p<0.01). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses suggested that serum has mir141-5p and mir501-5p none significant diagnostic value for HBV infection. Results suggest that mir141-5p and mir501-5 can not be used as diagnostic biomarkers for monitoring of HBV infection and other biomarkers in this disease need to be investigated.
Effectiveness of CaCl2 treatment on quality attributes of banana fruit during storage
Authors: Minh Nguyen Phuoc
Published: November 2021

Banana is a delicious fruit with excellent nutrient components beneficial for human health. In postharvest, banana fruit is quickly ripe within few days at ambient temperature condition and its quality is seriously degraded afterwards. Extension of its stability during storage and distribution is very necessary to enhance its economic value. This research evaluated the effectiveness of CaCl2 treatment on the physicochemical quality attributes, phyto-chemical and antioxidant activities, and potential enzymes of banana fruit during storage. Banana fruits were dipped in 3% CaCl2 solution for 5 min before draining on racks for 30 min at ambient temperature to remove excess calcium chloride solution. Another banana group is dipped in clean water, leaved on racks for 30 min as the control. Both these fruit groups were then stored at 4±0.5oC with 85-90% relative humidity for 28 days. In 7 day-interval, each group is taken to verify quality attributes such as decay index, firmness, extractable juice recovery, ascorbic acid, carotenoid, total soluble solid, phenolic content, total flavonoid content, DPPH radical scavenging rate, H2O2 content, catalase (CAT) activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of banana fruit during storage. Our findings demonstrated that CaCl2 exerted a positive influence in limiting decay (2.24±0.11 mark); slowing down texture firmness reduction (7.25±0.10 N); enhancing the extractable juice recovery (85.49±1.12%); controlling ascorbic acid (12.79±0.13 mg/100 g), total soluble solid (16.40±0.13 oBrix), phenolic retention (161.35±1.19 mg GAE/100 g), flavonoid content (64.41±0.25 mg QE/100 g) and H2O2 accumulation (20.09±0.10 µmol/g); improving carotenoid (21.83±0.13 µg/100 g), catalase (15.28±0.12 U/g), superoxide dismutase activity (5.60±0.10 U/g), antioxidant capacity of banana fruit (46.20±0.15%) during chilling storage. CaCl2 treatment would be an effective approach to extend shelf life of banana fruit in commercial distribution.
Soil and phytomicrobiomes for plant growth and soil fertility
Authors: Yadav Ajar Nath , Kour Divjot , Ahluwalia Amrik Singh
Published: November 2021

Soil is the basic requirement for agriculture crop production and simultaneously the microbial activity is important to improve soil health for healthy crop growth because microbial communities play an important role in building a complex link between plants and soil. Microbiomes from plants, soil and extreme environments are naturally gifted with amazing capabilities which play significant roles in the maintenance of global nutrient balance and ecosystem functions. The microbiomes from diverse niches have in fact emerged as potential tools for improving the plant growth and productivity by diverse mechanisms include solubilization of nutrients, nitrogen fixation, hormonal stimulation as well as biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. Further, these microbiomes have an immense potential to maintain soil health and fertility. Thus, dependent on their mode of action and effects, these microbiomes can be used as biofertilizers, biopesticides, plant strengtheners, and phytostimulators which will play a major role in improving productivity and achieving sustainability in an eco-friendly, economical and cost effective manner.
Nearly Reversible ECG Steganography based on Polar Coordinate System with Digital Replacement Technique
Authors: YANG CHING YU , Huang Chi-Kai
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we present a nearly reversible data hiding for electrocardiogram (ECG) hosts. Based on the polar coordinate system domain, medical diagnosis and personal data can be embedded in an ECG signal by the simple digital replacement technique. Simulations revealed that the restored ECG with near lossless quality can be obtained by the proposed method at receiver site. In addition, the perceived quality of the marked ECG is very good with a high payload size. Moreover, the resultant signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), peak SNR, and payload of the proposed method outperforms those of existing techniques. Since the computation cost is low, the proposed method can be used in portable biometrics or ECG measuring instruments.
Racjonalna jednostka w odczarowanym mieście
Authors: Kędzierski Maciej
Published: November 2021

The chief aim of reflection in this paper is to outline the image of rational cities and their products, including the consumerist superstructure. By way of conclusion, the author uses the example of the Warsaw borough of Służewiec-Przemysłowy (colloquially known as Mordor) to illustrate the transformation of the concept of rational reality.
Wenceslas Coberghers Grundrissentwurf für die siebeneckige Marienwallfahrtskirche in Scherpenheuvel/Montaigu
Authors: Naujokat Anke
Published: November 2021

This paper examines an unusual heptagonal floor plan drawing held by the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford. The drawing is identified as an early design plan (ca. 1606) for the heptagonal Marian Pilgrimage church at Scherpenheuvel/Montaigu (Belgium). After describing the drawing in detail and attributing it to Wenzeslas Cobergher, the paper interprets the ground plan against the backdrop of the design process of the domed Sanctuary as well as in the broader context of Scherpenheuvel’s transformation into a symbolic and programmatic Pilgrimage ensemble by the sovereigns of the Spanish Netherlands, Archduke Albert VII of Austria and Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia. With a view to the Italian architectural tradition, considerations are given to the ground plan’s geometry, its elevation and symbolic architectural motifs, before it is compared with the realized ground plan of the Pilgrimage church in Scherpenheuvel.
Marcello Piacentinis Casa Madre dei Mutilati in Rom
Authors: Dobler Ralph-Miklas
Published: November 2021

The Casa Madre dei Mutilati in Rome is one of the lesser-known works of the architect Marcello Piacentini (1881–1960). Its history is closely linked to the dramatic events of the First World War and to the resulting association of Italian war invalids. The architecture reacts to the self-interpretation of the war invalids as living martyrs and has a meaningful and representative task. In the short period before the consolidation of Mussolini’s fascist regime, a modern style is manifested here, which attempts to combine classicism and avant-garde before the typical abstraction of the thirties. The tradition of Italian architectural history is still present without falling into a monumental formalism.
Molecular and docking studies of tetramethoxy hydroxyflavone compound from Artemisia absinthium against carcinogens found in cigarette smoke
Authors: Aldakheel Fahad M. , Alduraywish Shatha A. , Mateen Ayesha , Alqahtani Mohammed S. , Syed Rabbani
Published: November 2021

Artemisia absinthium (AA) is an indigenous medicine used for treatment of inflammation of the liver and chronic fever, and is studied as an antimalarial and anticancer agent. The focus of the current investigation was to determine the action and effect of AA on microRNAs (miRNAs) from breast cancer cell lines. Molecular docking is a structure-based drug design process that studies the interaction of small molecule ligands with receptor biomacromolecules to predict binding mechanism and affinity. MiRNA expression profiling was done using microarray technology. Validation of transcripts with regulated expression pattern was done by SYBR-based quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR). AutoDock 4.2 programming allots polar hydrogens, bound together total Kollman charges, solvation borders, and fragmental volumes to the protein using auto dock devices in docking research (ADT). As confirmed by SYBR-based RT-PCR, our investigation discovered an upregulation of the miRNA-22 articulation and a downregulation of miRNA-199a*. These findings support and demonstrate the role of AA as a miRNA articulation-influencing factor in human breast cancer progression. AA’s tetramethoxy hydroxyflavone (p7F) molecule was found to be effective in the treatment of cancer. Changes in miRNA expression patterns could be a key pathogenic component in AA’s physiological action on cancer cells.
Design of miniaturized dual-polarized dipole antenna for 4G & sub-6 GHz 5G applications
Authors: Agarwal Anshul , Singhal Pramod K. , Thakare Vandana V.
Published: November 2021

Dual-polarization, enhanced gain and compact size is the basic need of the base station antennas whereas a modern communication system needs a wideband antenna which can cover both the LTE & 5G applications. In the present work, a cross dipole antenna is proposed for LTE & sub 6 GHz 5G frequency band for Base Station Antenna Applications. By introducing asymmetrically shaped pentagon slots in the dipole and open-loop dipole patches, wide impedance bandwidth of 1.65–4.05 GHz at a return loss of −14 dB are achieved for 4G & 5G applications. Two symmetric feeding lines orthogonal to each other have been used to obtain the dual-polarization. Also, a high stable gain of 7 ± 1 dBi & HPBW of 80 ± 5° was achieved over the entire operating band at both the ports due to the symmetric structure. The proposed antenna is compared for size and bandwidth with the structures already proposed in the literature and significant enhancement is observed to be used for Base station antennas.
Issues of mindfulness implementation for oncology caregivers
Authors: Couillet Audrey , Malatier Mathieu , Le Bris Marie Pierre , Mastroianni Bénédicte , Chvetzoff Gisèle
Published: November 2021

Objectives

Burn out is high in oncology. We aim to evaluate the feasibility and identify the barriers for mindfulness implementation in oncology professionals.

Methods

We conducted a pilot study in which voluntary oncology caregivers entered mindfulness workshops, and complete online questionnaires. We also conducted a qualitative study to better identify the practical reasons which hamper the implementation of mindfulness in oncology caregivers having refused to participate.

Results

83.3% of volunteers for the workshops were women, 60.00% (16/30) of caregivers completed the program. Caregivers’ resistances to mindfulness practice were: a lack of availability and information, complex organisation with limited free time, and accept spending time to take care of themselves.

Conclusions

This work highlights the interest of mindfulness for caregivers in oncology, we have identified specific issues hindering the implementation of such technique which can be further investigated.
A mechanochemical preparation, properties and kinetic study of kaolin–N, P fertilizers for agricultural applications**
Authors: Alrbaihat Mohammad R. , Al-Rawajfeh Aiman E. , AlShamaileh Ehab
Published: November 2021

Solvent-free ball milling was used to activate kaolin, a trioctahedral clay material, with diammonium phosphate[(NH4)2HPO4] to serve as a fast-acting phosphorus and nitrogen releasing fertilizer. Different tests on a mixture of 3:1 weight ratio of kaolin: (NH4)2HPO4 were performed to analyze the level of incorporation of (NH4)2HPO4 in the kaolin and the degree of liberation of

NH

4
+

{\rm{NH}}_4^ +

and

PO

4

3
−

{\rm{PO}}_4^{3 - }

ions into solution. The experimental mill speeds were varied from 200 to 700 rpm rotational rates for a fixed period of 2 hours. Several milling periods of 1, 2, and 3 h. were studied at the fixed milling speed of 600 rpm. To explain the properties of activated materials and to understand the purpose behind the simpler disintegration of phosphorus, several analytical methods such as FT-IR, TGA-DTG and Ion chromatography (IC) were used. The proposed procedure was environmentally friendly, and it helped to maintain a balanced supply of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer for agriculture's long-term development by offsetting some of the existing high-cost chemical fertilizer. The results demonstrated that the mechanochemical reaction could yield an intercalated form of kaolin that is a transmitter of N and P sources in fertilizers.
Biochemical predictors of metabolically unhealthy obesity in children and adolescents
Authors: Cho Ah Young , Roh Jung Gi , Shim Young Suk , Lee Hae Sang , Hwang Jin Soon
Published: November 2021

Background

Children and adolescents with obesity can now be classified according to metabolic profile, as those with metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) and those with metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO). We aimed to determine the prevalence of MUO and identify its biochemical predictors in pediatric patients with obesity.

Methods

We evaluated the medical records of 187 boys and girls with obesity. The children were divided into MHO and MUO groups, and anthropometric and biochemical parameters were assessed. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was used to identify impaired glucose regulation and hyperinsulinism, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of MUO in children with obesity.

Results

Of the 187 children, MUO was found in 71.7% (n=134) and MHO in 28.3% (n=53); those in the MHO group were younger than those in the MUO group. Blood pressure, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and uric acid levels were significantly higher in the MUO group than in the MHO group. Further, the MUO group exhibited a significantly higher level of insulin resistance (p<0.05) than the MHO group. Serum levels of uric acid and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) were confirmed as biochemical predictors of the MUO phenotype in children with obesity.

Conclusions

The ratio of MUO in children with obesity was relatively high; further, serum levels of uric acid and HOMA-IR can be used as biochemical predictors of MUO.
Habitat type impacts small mammal diversity in the Ukaguru Mountains, Tanzania
Authors: Ademola Olaoluwa John , Massawe Apia W. , Mulungu Loth S. , Hieronimo Proches , Makonda Fortunatus B. S. , Makundi Rhodes H.
Published: November 2021

We assessed the habitat association of the diversity and abundance of small mammals in the Ukaguru Mountains within the Eastern Arc Mountains, Tanzania. An estimation of the vegetation parameters and live-trapping of small mammals for three consecutive nights per month for 21 months were carried out in farmland, disturbed and intact forests. A total of 1196 individual small mammals comprising 13 species were captured. Species diversity and evenness in intact forest were much higher compared to disturbed forest. Principal component analysis (PCA) explained 87.7% of the variance with two factors. The study suggests vegetation and habitat disturbances are factors responsible for the observed diversity of small mammals in the Ukaguru Mountains. Mastomys natalensis, Mus triton and Praomys delectorum accounted for 90.0% of total captures. M. triton and M. natalensis were the most abundant in farmland with 46.8 and 42.8% of total captures respectively and associated with the herbaceous vegetation. P. delectorum correlated with litter depth and trees and accounted for 90.0 and 80.0% total captures in disturbed and intact forests respectively but the mean abundances in both habitats were not significantly different (p = 0.72).
Ideological and implementational spaces for translanguaging in the language introduction programme in Swedish Upper Secondary School
Authors: Wedin Åsa
Published: November 2021

This article investigates to what extent spaces created in the language introduction programme (LIP) in Upper Secondary School in Sweden close or open up for students’ varied linguistic resources, to create an understanding of the implementational spaces of the educational environments that the school represents, and of the ideological underpinnings that these imply. In the analysis, schoolscaping is used based on displayed language on the school premises in combination with language practices in classrooms. The material analyzed consists of photographs, both from classrooms and shared spaces, together with field notes from observations. The analysis made conflicting ideologies visible. Although students were invited to use their languages in classrooms, these were rarely made visible in written form, which is remarkable as written language is given great value in school. The relative invisibility of the LIP students’ languages in the schoolscape, except for in their own classrooms, together with the physical separation from other students at the school, paints a picture of expectations of assimilation and of a monolingual ideology, where the goal is that students become Swedish-speaking. Thus, the conclusion is that there are implementational spaces in the partly closed space that constructs LIP, while ideological spaces are rather closed.
Piezoresistive/piezoelectric intrinsic sensing properties of carbon nanotube cement-based smart composite and its electromechanical sensing mechanisms: A review
Authors: Teng Fei , Luo Jianlin , Gao Yibo , Zhou Xiaoyang , Zhang Jigang , Gao Song , Sun Shengwei
Published: November 2021

Structural health monitoring (SHM) technology based on the mechanical–electrical sensing effect of various intrinsic smart materials has a good application prospect. Carbon nanotube (CNT) has excellent electromechanical properties and hence can be doped into cement by appropriate dispersive means to produce CNT-modified cement-based smart material (CNTCS) with excellent electromechanical (piezoresistive/piezoelectric) capacity. CNTCS can be developed into a static/dynamic intrinsic sensor for SHM after effective packaging and calibration. Based on the characteristics of CNT, the dispersion methods and the dispersity characterization techniques of CNT in the water/cement matrix are summarized, and then the influence laws of various factors on piezoresistive and piezoelectric sensing behaviors of the corresponding CNTCS are also discussed. The full-frequency domain sensing mechanism of CNTCS is analyzed by combining its finite element model and electromechanical coupling theory, and the practicability of applying CNTCS as an SHM static/dynamic intrinsic sensor is further investigated.
Layup sequence and interfacial bonding of additively manufactured polymeric composite: A brief review
Authors: Radzuan Nabilah Afiqah Mohd , Sulong Abu Bakar , Verma Anil , Muhamad Norhamidi
Published: November 2021

Additively manufactured polymeric composites exhibit customised properties beyond those offered by conventionally fabricated ones. However, in many cases, the mechanical performance mainly depends on the processing parameters, tools, and material selection. Yet, one of the issues of the additive manufacturing process especially in the material extrusion process is the inability to control the printing layups, thereby causing interlaminar damage. Thus far, literature and research have focused on improving the mechanical performance of such polymeric composites by focusing on the interlaminar shear strength under a transverse load transfer. Polymeric composites prepared using the material extrusion technique namely fused deposition modelling (FDM) are discussed upon its layup sequence and orientation. This article proposes that by realising a homogenous distribution of the transverse load, the orientation and the printing direction can maximise the printed load bearing. Moreover, the layup sequence and the interlayer diffusion are key for controlling the mechanical properties of the polymeric composites. This brief review presents a comprehensive elucidation of the polymeric composites manufactured using FDM that interprets the needs of having greater load bearing in each layup printing sequence of the polymeric composites. By able to control the layup sequence, one can control the mechanical performance based on specific functionality.
Studying the electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of irradiated natural rubber latex/magnetite nanocomposite
Authors: Abou El Fadl Faten Ismail , Mohamed Maysa A. , Mahmoud Magida Mamdouh , Ibrahim Sayeda M.
Published: November 2021

Nanocomposites have received voluminous interest due to the combination of unique properties of organic and inorganic component in one material. In this class, magnetic polymer nanocomposites are of particular interest because of the combination of excellent magnetic properties, stability, and good biocompatibility. This paper reports the preparation and characterization of nanocomposites films based on natural rubber in latex state (NRL) loaded with different concentrations of semiconducting magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4) (MNPs) (5, 10, 15, 20, and 30%). NRL (100%) and NRL/Fe3O4 nanocomposites were prepared by solution casting technique then, exposed to various irradiation doses (50, 70, 100 kGy).The nanocomposite’s morphological, and physical properties were investigated through various spectroscopic techniques such as Fourier-transformed infrared, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopies. The mechanical properties, including the tensile strength and elongation at break percentage (E

b
%) of the nanocomposites were also studied and compared with the 100% NRL films. Based on the results obtained from the mechanical study, it is found that the NRL/20% Fe3O4 nanocomposite film exhibited the highest tensile strength at 100 kGy. On the other hand, based on the conductivity study, it is found that, NRL/Fe3O4 nanocomposite with 10% magnetite exhibit the highest conductivity as the content of magnetite plays an important and effective role based on the high and homogeneous dispersity.
A Purified Alkaline and Detergent-Tolerant Lipase from
Aspergillus fumigatus
with Potential Application in Removal of Mustard Oil Stains from Cotton Fabric
Authors: Mehta Akshita , Gupta Aashna , Bhardwaj Kamal Kumar , Gupta Reena
Published: November 2021

In the present study, the lipase from Aspergillus fumigatus was purified which was found to be stable to commercial detergents and oxidising agents. A purification fold of 6.96 and yield of 11.03% were achieved when the enzyme was purified using Octyl Sepharose column chromatography. In presence of various oxidizing agents, the highest activity of lipase was 15.56 U/mg with hydrogen peroxide. Among various surfactants used, the maximum activity exhibited by lipase was with Tween 80. While studying the effect of various detergents, the highest activity of 9.3 U/mg was achieved with "Vanish" detergent. Wash performance was studied with various detergents out of which "Vanish" showed highest oil removal of 79%. Lipase from Aspergillus fumigatus possessed better stability with various surfactants and oxidizing agents. The results of this study have shown that the lipase from Aspergillus fumigatus along with detergent "Vanish" (0.7%) under optimized conditions (5 μg/ml lipase, 40°C wash temperature and 40 min wash duration) improved oil removal from cotton fabric stained with mustard oil by 84%.
Surfactant-based therapy against COVID-19: A review
Authors: Rahaman Sk Mehebub , Chowdhury Budhadeb , Acharjee Animesh , Singh Bula , Saha Bidyut
Published: November 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to serious health and economic damage to all over the world, and it still remains unstoppable. The SARS-CoV-2, by using its S-glycoprotein, binds with an angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor, mostly present in alveolar epithelial type II cells. Eventually pulmonary surfactant depletion occurs. The pulmonary surfactant is necessary for maintaining the natural immunity as well as the surface tension reduction within the lung alveoli during the expiration. Its insufficiency results in the reduction of blood oxygenation, poor pulmonary regeneration, lung fibrosis, and finally the respiratory system collapses. Exogenous surfactants have previously shown great promise in the treatment of infant respiratory distress syndrome, and they may also aid in the healing of damaged alveolar cells and the prevention of respiratory failure. Surfactant based therapy has been advised for the prevention of COVID-19, and the trials have begun around the world. Furthermore, greater research on the timing, dose, and the distribution of surfactant to the COVID-19 patients is required before this technique can be implemented in clinical practice.
Simulationsbasierte Steigerung der Energieeffizienz in der variantenreichen Backwarenproduktion
Authors: Patsch Johannes , Zigart Tanja , Kostolani David , Rupprecht Patrick , Schlund Sebastian
Published: November 2021

In Prozessen mit hoher Varianz, kurzen Lieferzeiten sowie veränderlichen Produkten ermöglicht eine simulationsbasierte Planung sowie eine adaptive Anpassung der Produktionspläne eine zielgerichtete Kapazitätsauslastung der Produktion. Die Simulation der Ofenbelegung, die Implementierung einer automatisierten Maschinenansteuerung und die dadurch resultierende Steigerung der Energieeffizienz werden am Beispiel einer variantenreichen Backwarenproduktion gezeigt.
Digitale Prozesslenkung mit ToolProduction
Authors: Ellwein Carsten , Xu Anna , Schniering Bernd , Nötzel Volker , Wüseke Frauke
Published: November 2021

Fertigungsunternehmen, insbesondere kleine und mittelständische Unternehmen (KMU), können sich ihre Wettbewerbsfähigkeit über eine Industrie-4.0-gerechte Prozesslenkung sichern. Das Forschungsprojekt ToolProduction liefert eine Gesamtlösung für die digitale Prozesslenkung, die eine flexible Datenplattform für die einheitliche Integration von IT-Modulen und benutzerspezifische Datenbereitstellung bietet. Eine zentrale Datenbasis wurde über die gesamte Wertschöpfungskette geschaffen mit dem Ziel, eine webbasierte Kommerzialisierung digitaler Dienstleistungen zu ermöglichen. In diesem Beitrag wird eine datenbankbasierte Ausführungsumgebung zur Ausführung datengetriebener Mehrwertdienste vorgestellt, um nutzerspezifische Entscheidungsprozesse zu unterstützen. Für komplexere Anwendungen können zukünftig Methoden der Künstlichen Intelligenz (KI) und des Maschinellen Lernens (ML) genutzt werden.
Wertstromkinematik – Produktionssysteme neu gedacht
Authors: Mühlbeier Edgar , Oexle Florian , Gönnheimer Philipp , Fleischer Jürgen
Published: November 2021

Industrie 4.0 ist als Trend des letzten Jahrzehnts inzwischen weltweit bekannt und steht wie kein anderer Begriff für die Innovationsfähigkeit und Kreativität von Forschung und Industrie. Dabei stellt Industrie 4.0 bisher jedoch eine im Wesentlichen digitale Innovation dar. Seitens der Hardware müssen für eine volle Ausschöpfung des Potentials die Produktionsmaschinen und -systeme der Zukunft grundlegend neu gedacht werden. Das Forschungsvorhaben Wertstromkinematik setzt an dieser Stelle an. Das neuartige Produktionskonzept sieht die Gestaltung ganzer Produktionen anhand der Verkettung mehrerer Maschinen einer baugleichen, roboterähnlichen Kinematik vor. Das hierdurch geschaffene Produktionssystem besitzt eine Wandlungsfähigkeit, die die volle Ausschöpfung des Potenzials durch Industrie 4.0 ermöglicht und zur Erhaltung und Anpassung globaler Wertschöpfungsketten beiträgt.
Das Fermi-Problem des innerbetrieblichen Transports
Authors: Klug Florian
Published: November 2021

Als Fermi-Problem bezeichnet man die quantitative Abschätzung für Probleme bei schlechter Datenlage. Im folgenden Beitrag wird aufgezeigt, wie mithilfe von einfachen Transportkettenmodellen logistische Fragestellungen beim Einsatz von Flurförderzeugen im innerbetrieblichen Transport beantwortet werden können. Ein Vergleich der Planungsdaten mit aufwendigeren Ablaufsimulationen zeigt in manchen Bereichen eine erstaunliche Genauigkeit der Ergebnisse, was für einen vermehrten Einsatz von Planungsverfahren auf Basis des Fermi-Ansatzes spricht.
Adaptive Informationsdarstellung in der industriellen Produktion
Authors: Mertes Jan , Klar Matthias , Lindenschmitt Daniel , Glatt Moritz , Schotten Hans D. , Aurich Jan C.
Published: November 2021

Die computergestützte Erweiterung physischer Objekte durch zusätzliche Informationsdarstellung birgt große Potenziale im industriellen Kontext. Diese als Augmented Reality (AR) bezeichnete Technologie benötigt hohe Rechenleistungen zur Verarbeitung der zur Verfügung gestellten Informationen und eine geringe Latenz zur Vermeidung von bewegungsbe dingtem Unwohlsein. Daher werden derzeit kabelgebundene AR-Systeme und solche mit einer integrierten Recheneinheit verwendet, die innerhalb der Produktion wenig akzeptiert sind. Der Mobilfunkstandard 5G kann jedoch die damit einhergehenden Restriktionen lösen. Daher stellt dieser Beitrag die Potenziale von 5G für flexible AR-Anwendungen innerhalb der Produktion anhand eines konzeptionellen Aufbaus eines 5G-fähigen ARSystems zur Darstellung von Maschineninformationen vor.
Planung zukunftsrobuster Fabriken
Authors: Kaucher Christian , Rauch Sebastian , Erlach Klaus
Published: November 2021

Zur Gestaltung zukunftsrobuster Fabriken ist es erforderlich, langfristige Trends und Entwicklungen in die Fabrikplanung einzubeziehen. Die Zukunftsforschung befasst sich mit der systematischen Erkundung der Zukunft und verfügt zu diesem Zweck über eine Vielzahl an Methoden. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird ausgehend von den Anforderungen der Fabrikplanung hergeleitet, welche Methoden für den Anwendungsfall geeignet sind. Weiterhin wird dargestellt, inwiefern diese Methoden an die Anforderungen der Fabrikplanung angepasst werden müssen.
Digitalisierung als Voraussetzung für den Wissenstransfer in produzierenden KMU
Authors: Jagusch Konrad , Beuß Florian , Nehls Christina , Sender Jan , Flügge Wilko
Published: November 2021

Der Stellenwert von Daten nimmt in der heutigen Zeit rasant zu. Besonders in produzierenden Unternehmen werden sie zum Teil als neue Währung gehandelt. Doch ohne die Erfahrungen und das Wissen der Mitarbeitenden sind viele Ansätze der optimierten Prozessgestaltung nur schwer realisierbar. Ein Sachverhalt, der speziell auf kleine und mittlere Unternehmen (KMU) zutrifft, in denen vor allem Erfahrung und das Wissen des Einzelnen zählen. Hinzu kommt, dass der entsprechende Personenkreis stark eingegrenzt ist. Ein Ausscheiden eines Mitarbeitenden geht somit mit dem Verlust von entscheidenden Erfahrungen einher. Um dieser Schwachstelle vorzubeugen, wird ein Ansatz vorgestellt, wie prozessrelevante Informationen gespeichert und Wissen der Mitarbeitenden spezifisch eingesetzt werden können.