bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Energetic Storm Particle Heavy-ion Properties in Solar Cycles 23 and 24
Authors: Santa Fe Dueñas A. , Ebert R. W. , Dayeh M. A. , Desai M. I. , Jian L. K. , Li G.
Published: August 2023

We examine variations in energetic storm particle (ESP) heavy-ion average intensities and energy spectra between ∼0.1 and 75 MeV nucleon−1 at coronal mass ejection (CME)–driven interplanetary shocks for events observed at the ACE spacecraft. We compare ESP events observed during the weaker solar cycle (SC) 24 and the relatively stronger SC 23 to investigate any effects on the strength of an SC, including the associated transient events, on ESP properties at 1 au. We find that the number of clearly defined heavy-ion ESP events at ACE during SC 23 is about twice that observed during SC 24 (76 versus 41). The average transit speed of the driving interplanetary CMEs (ICMEs) at 1 au is 20% higher during SC 23 than during SC 24 (859.4 km s−1 versus 729.1 km s−1). The correlation of ESP average intensities with ICME speeds shows that lower-speed ICMEs in SC 24 can be as efficient as the higher-speed events in SC 23 at producing ESPs below 2 MeV nucleon−1. The distribution and magnitude of the average intensities for energies below ∼1 MeV nucleon−1 are consistent between both SCs. However, events with intensity enhancements at higher energies (>∼10 MeV nucleon−1) are more frequent and their intensity distributions are harder for SC 23, resulting in an increase in the rollover energy (E
0) for their spectra profiles. This suggests more efficient ESP acceleration at >10 MeV nucleon−1 during SC 23.
Data-constrained 3D Modeling of a Solar Flare Evolution: Acceleration, Transport, Heating, and Energy Budget
Authors: Fleishman Gregory D. , Nita Gelu M. , Motorina Galina G.
Published: August 2023

Solar flares are driven by the release of free magnetic energy and its conversion to other forms of energy—kinetic, thermal, and nonthermal. Quantification of partitions between these energy components and their evolution is needed to understand the solar flare phenomenon including nonthermal particle acceleration, transport, and escape as well as the thermal plasma heating and cooling. The challenge of remote-sensing diagnostics is that the data are taken with finite spatial resolution and suffer from line-of-sight (LOS) ambiguity including cases when different flaring loops overlap and project one over the other. Here, we address this challenge by devising a data-constrained evolving 3D model of a multiloop SOL2014-02-16T064620 solar flare of GOES class C1.5. Specifically, we employed a 3D magnetic model validated earlier for a single time frame and extended it to cover the entire flare evolution. For each time frame we adjusted the distributions of the thermal plasma and nonthermal electrons in the model so that the observables synthesized from the model matched the observations. Once the evolving model had been validated in this way, we computed and investigated the evolving energy components and other relevant parameters by integrating over the model volume. This approach removes the LOS ambiguity and permits us to disentangle contributions from the overlapping loops. It reveals new facets of electron acceleration and transport as well as of the heating and cooling of the flare plasma in 3D. We find signatures of substantial direct heating of the flare plasma not associated with the energy loss of nonthermal electrons.
A Type II Radio Burst Driven by a Blowout Jet on the Sun
Authors: Hou Zhenyong , Tian Hui , Su Wei , Madjarska Maria S. , Chen Hechao , Zheng Ruisheng , Bai Xianyong , Deng Yuanyong
Published: August 2023

Type II radio bursts are often associated with coronal shocks that are typically driven by coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the Sun. Here we conduct a case study of a type II radio burst that is associated with a C4.5-class flare and a blowout jet, but without the presence of a CME. The blowout jet is observed near the solar disk center in the extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) passbands with different characteristic temperatures. Its evolution involves an initial phase and an ejection phase with a velocity of 560 ± 87 km s−1. Ahead of the jet front, an EUV wave propagates at a projected velocity of ∼403 ± 84 km s−1 in the initial stage. The velocity of the type II radio burst is estimated to be ∼641 km s−1, which corresponds to the shock velocity against the coronal density gradient. The EUV wave and the type II radio burst are closely related to the ejection of the blowout jet, suggesting that both are likely the manifestation of a coronal shock driven by the ejection of the blowout jet. The type II radio burst likely starts lower than those associated with CMEs. The combination of the velocities of the radio burst and the EUV wave yields a modified shock velocity at ∼757 km s−1. The Alfvén Mach number is in the range of 1.09–1.18, implying that the shock velocity is 10%–20% larger than the local Alfvén velocity.
Brown Dwarf Retrievals on FIRE!: Atmospheric Constraints and Lessons Learned from High Signal-to-noise Medium-resolution Spectroscopy of a T9 Dwarf
Authors: Hood Callie E. , Fortney Jonathan J. , Line Michael R. , Faherty Jacqueline K.
Published: August 2023

Brown dwarf spectra offer vital testbeds for our understanding of the chemical and physical processes that sculpt substellar atmospheres. Recently, atmospheric retrieval approaches have been successfully applied to low-resolution (R ∼ 100) spectra of L, T, and Y dwarfs, yielding constraints on the chemical abundances and temperature structures of these atmospheres. Medium-resolution (R ∼ 103) spectra of brown dwarfs offer additional insight, as molecular features are more easily disentangled and the thermal structure of the upper atmosphere is better probed. We present results from a GPU-based retrieval analysis of a high signal-to-noise, medium-resolution (R ∼ 6000) FIRE spectrum from 0.85 to 2.5 μm of the T9 dwarf UGPS J072227.51–054031.2. At 60× higher spectral resolution than previous brown dwarf retrievals, a number of novel challenges arise. We examine the effect of different opacity sources, in particular for CH4. Furthermore, we find that flaws in the data like errors from order stitching can bias our constraints. We compare these retrieval results to those for an R ∼ 100 spectrum of the same object, revealing how constraints on atmospheric abundances and temperatures improve by an order of magnitude or more with increased spectral resolution. In particular, we can constrain the abundance of H2S, which is undetectable at lower spectral resolution. While these medium-resolution retrievals offer the potential of precise, stellar-like constraints on atmospheric abundances (∼0.02 dex), our retrieved radius is unphysically small (

R
=

0.50

−
0.01

+
0.01

R
Jup), indicating shortcomings with our modeling framework. This work is an initial investigation into brown dwarf retrievals at medium spectral resolution, offering guidance for future ground-based studies and JWST observations.
The Mass Fractionation of Helium in the Escaping Atmosphere of HD 209458b*
Authors: Xing 邢 Lei 磊 , Yan 闫 Dongdong 冬冬 , Guo 郭 Jianheng 建恒
Published: August 2023

The absorption signals of metastable He in HD 209458b and several other exoplanets can be explained via an escaping atmosphere model with a subsolar He/H ratio. The low abundance of helium can be a result of planet formation if there is a small amount of helium in their primordial atmosphere. However, another possibility is that the low He/H ratio is caused by the process of mass fractionation of helium in the atmosphere. In order to investigate the effect of fractionation in the hydrogen-helium atmosphere, we developed a self-consistent multi-fluid 1D hydrodynamic model based on the well-known open-source MHD code PLUTO. Our simulations show that a lower He/H ratio can be produced spontaneously in the multi-fluid model. We further modeled the transmission spectra of He 10830 lines for HD 209458b in a broad parameter space. The transmission spectrum of the observation can be fitted in the condition of 1.80 times the X-ray and extreme-ultraviolet flux of the quiet Sun. Meanwhile, the ratio of the escaping flux of helium to hydrogen, F
He/F
H, is 0.039. Our results indicate that the mass fractionation of helium to hydrogen can naturally interpret the low He/H ratio required by the observation. Thus, in the escaping atmosphere of HD 209458b, decreasing the abundance of helium in the atmosphere is not needed even if its He abundance is similar to that of the Sun. The simulation presented in this work hints that in the escaping atmosphere, mass fractionation can also occur on other exoplanets, which needs to be explored further.
Temporal Evolution of Titan’s Stratospheric Temperatures and Trace Gases from a Two-dimensional Retrieval of Cassini Composite Infrared Spectrometer Data
Authors: Achterberg Richard K.
Published: August 2023

We use a two-dimensional (2D) radiative transfer model of Titan, which allows the atmospheric structure to vary in both altitude and latitude, to retrieve the spatial distribution of temperature, haze extinction, and C2H2, C2H6, C3H8, CH3C2H, C4H2, and HCN gases, from Cassini Composite Infrared Spectrometer (CIRS) limb-mapping observations over the duration of the Cassini mission. We compare our results with previous analyses of CIRS limb observations using radiative models that only allow the atmosphere to vary in altitude. The temperature, haze, and gas composition retrieved with the 2D model mostly show the same broad spatial and temporal trends as previously published results from 1D models. However, there are some significant differences in the retrieved structure at the fall and winter poles poleward of 60°. Most noticeably, the HCN abundance in the depleted region near 65°N at 350 km in northern winter is stronger in the 2D retrievals than in previous 1D retrievals, and the 2D retrievals show very different structure from earlier 1D retrievals in the north polar C2H2 structure during early northern spring, with a strong depletion around 70°N at 0.02 mbar.
Dynamic change of habitat quality and its key driving factors in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China
Authors: Wang Ding , Hao Haiguang , Liu Hao , Sun Lihui , Li Yuyang
Published: August 2023

Habitat quality reflects the level of biodiversity, and habitat maintenance functions are related to human well-being and ecosystem stability. Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region is a typical ecologically fragile region in Western China with complex human-nature relationships. Maintaining good habitat is not only a fundamental requirement for biodiversity conservation but also a necessary path for sustainable regional development. In this study, we assessed and analysed the spatial and temporal patterns and changes in habitat quality in Ningxia from 2000 to 2020, and explored the driving factors of habitat quality using a geographically weighted regression (GWR) model. The results indicated: (1) The overall habitat quality level in Ningxia was low to intermediate, with an upwards and then downwards trend during the past 20 years, showing a small change in overall magnitude. (2) The high- and higher-level habitat quality patches in Ningxia were mainly distributed in areas with high vegetation cover, such as the Helan Mountain and Liupan Mountain. The patches of moderate-level habitat quality mainly included cultivated land, while the low- and lower-level patches were mainly distributed in areas subjected to more frequent human activities, such as cultivated land and construction land. (3) The spatial and temporal distribution patterns and changes in habitat quality in Ningxia from 2000 to 2020 were mainly influenced by fractional vegetation cover (FVC), soil moisture content (SMC), proportion of construction land area (PCL), and proportion of cultivated land area (CLP). Among them, FVC and SMC were positive driving factors, and PCL and CLP were negative driving factors. The results support that increasing vegetation cover and reducing anthropogenic disturbance to natural habitats are important measures to maintain fragile habitats and that key ecological function areas such as nature reserves are crucial for habitat quality protection in ecologically fragile areas.
Effects of Virtual Lab Experiences on Students’ Achievement and Perceptions of Learning Physics
Authors: Asiksoy Gulsum
Published: August 2023

In engineering education, laboratory experimentation is as significant as theoretical education. However, inadequate laboratory facilities affect students’ abilities to learn. This study aimed to investigate the effect of virtual labs on students’ learning achievements and their perceptions of virtual physics lab activities. The study was carried out with 240 first-year engineering students enrolled in a physics laboratory course at a private university. In the study, data on learning achievement were collected from quizzes completed by students after the experiments. The data on the perception of the students about the virtual laboratory were collected at the end of the term, with the Virtual Laboratory Perception Scale shared online. The research results indicated that simulation-based physics experiments could positively affect students’ learning achievements. In addition, it was revealed that most students had very positive perceptions of virtual laboratory activities. The results obtained from this study can guide educators to prepare more effective laboratory environments.
The role of Mas receptor on renal hemodynamic responses to angiotensin II administration in chronic renal sympathectomized male and female rats
Authors: Hosseini-Dastgerdi Hajaralsadat , Pourshanazari Ali-Asghar , Nematbakhsh Mehdi
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose:

Renal hemodynamics is influenced by renal sympathetic nerves and the renin-angiotensin system. On the other hand, renal sympathetic denervation impacts kidney weight by affecting renal hemodynamics. The current study evaluated the role of the Mas receptor on renal hemodynamic responses under basal conditions and in response to angiotensin II (Ang II) in chronic renal sympathectomy in female and male rats.

Experimental approach:

Forty-eight nephrectomized female and male rats were anesthetized and cannulated. Afterward, the effect of chronic renal sympathectomy was investigated on hemodynamic parameters such as renal vascular resistance (RVR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and renal blood flow (RBF). In addition, the effect of chronic sympathectomy on kidney weight was examined.

Findings/Results:

Chronic renal sympathectomy increased RVR and subsequently decreased RBF in both sexes. Renal perfusion pressure also increased after sympathectomy in male and female rats, while MAP did not change, significantly. In response to the Ang II injection, renal sympathectomy caused a greater decrease in RBF in all experimental groups, while it did not affect the MAP response. In addition, chronic sympathectomy increased left kidney weight in right nephrectomized rats.

Conclusion and implications:

Chronic renal sympathectomy changed systemic/renal hemodynamics in baseline conditions and only renal hemodynamics in response to Ang II administration. Moreover, chronic sympathectomy increased compensatory hypertrophy in nephrectomized rats. These changes are unaffected by gender difference and Mas receptor blocker.
A novel approach to enhance the performance of kallikrein 6 enzyme using Pichia pastoris GS115 as a host
Authors: Mahmoodi Fatemeh , Bakherad Hamid , Mogharrab Navid , Rabbani Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose:

Enzyme engineering is the process of raising enzyme efficiency and activity by altering amino acid sequences. Kallikrein 6 (KLK6) enzyme is a secreted serine protease involved in a variety of physiological and pathological activities. The increased expression of KLK6 plays a key role in various diseases. Instability and spontaneous activation and deactivation are major challenges in the study of this enzyme. This study aimed to create a stable pro-KLK6 enzyme by enzyme engineering, designing a specific cleavage site for enterokinase, and using Pichia pastoris GS115 as a host cell. Then, recombinant pro-KLK6 was used to introduce a novel inhibitor for it.

Experimental approach:

An engineered pro-KLK6 gene was cloned into the pPICZα A expression vector. Then, it was expressed in P. pastoris GS115 and purified by Ni-NTA chromatography. An inactive engineered pro-KLK6 gene was cleaved by enterokinase and converted to an active KLK6. The KLK6 enzyme activity and its kinetic parameters were measured using N-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester (BAEE) substrates.

Findings/Results:

The secretory form of the pro-KLK6 was expressed at about 11 mg/L in P. pastoris (GS115). Before activation with enterokinase, pro-KLK6 was inactive and did not activate spontaneously. The kinetic parameters, including Km and Vmax, were estimated at 113.59 μM and 0.432 μM/s, respectively.

Conclusion and implications:

A stable pro-KLK6 enzyme was produced using P. pastoris (GS115) as the host cell and a specific cleavage site for enterokinase. Additionally, this study assessed the kinetic parameters of the KLK6 enzyme using the BAEE substrate for the first time.
PCL/Agarose 3D-printed scaffold for tissue engineering applications: fabrication, characterization, and cellular activities
Authors: Ghaedamini Sho'leh , Karbasi Saeed , Hashemibeni Batool , Honarvar Ali , Rabiei Abbasali
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose:

Biomaterials, scaffold manufacturing, and design strategies with acceptable mechanical properties are the most critical challenges facing tissue engineering.

Experimental approach:

In this study, polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds were fabricated through a novel three-dimensional (3D) printing method. The PCL scaffolds were then coated with 2% agarose (Ag) hydrogel. The 3D-printed PCL and PCL/Ag scaffolds were characterized for their mechanical properties, porosity, hydrophilicity, and water absorption. The construction and morphology of the printed scaffolds were evaluated via Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The attachment and proliferation of L929 cells cultured on the scaffolds were investigated through MTT assay on the cell culture study upon the 1st, 3rd, and 7th days.

Findings/Results:

The incorporation of Ag hydrogel with PCL insignificantly decreased the mechanical strength of the scaffold. The presence of Ag enhanced the hydrophilicity and water absorption of the scaffolds, which could positively influence their cell behavior compared to the PCL scaffolds. Regarding cell morphology, the cells on the PCL scaffolds had a more rounded shape and less cell spreading, representing poor cell attachment and cell-scaffold interaction due to the hydrophobic nature of PCL. Conversely, the cells on the PCL/Ag scaffolds were elongated with a spindle-shaped morphology indicating a positive cell-scaffold interaction.

Conclusion and implications:

PCL/Ag scaffolds can be considered appropriate for tissue-engineering applications.
Glucose Level Assisted Monitoring Diet – Impact on Diabetes Parameters, Risk Factors, and Quality of Life
Authors: Jaggesh Parimala , Surendra Srihari U.
Published: August 2023

Background:

There is an increasing need to revise diabetes management. Two-thirds of patients with diabetes do not have their blood sugar under control. There has been increasing evidence suggesting the positive impact of diet and lifestyle on blood sugar control. This study aims to demonstrate the adoption of the Glucose Level-Assisted Monitoring Diet (GLAM diet) validated by the aid of ambulatory glucose profiling and examine the impact of the GLAM diet on blood glucose concentration, lipid profile, and glucose variability.

Methods:

In this open-label, interventional pilot study, we enrolled 50 diabetes patients with or without hypertension to receive a GLAM diet, in addition to counseling. The primary outcome was the control and remission of diabetes. The secondary outcome was a composite of optimal maintenance of glucose concentration, optimal lipid profile, glucose variability evaluation, reduced insulin supplementation, diabetes-related complications following the GLAM diet, lifestyle modification, and overall quality of life through indicators such as sleep, stress, and nutrition.

Results:

GLAM diet significantly reduced Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) (202 ± 65.47 mg/dL vs. 160.2 ± 37.75 mg/dL, P < 0.001), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) (246.1 ± 74.74 mg/dL vs. 196.5 ± 45.48 mg/dL, P < 0.001), laboratory glycated-hemoglobin (9.2 ± 1.74% vs. 8.1 ± 1.5%, P < 0.001), and average glucose (182.4 ± 47.54 mg/dL vs. 152.2 ± 39.32 mg/dL, P < 0.001). The glucose remained within target increasing frequently after the diet was implemented (49.7 ± 27.11% vs. 65.6 ± 20.01%, P < 0.001) and although fell just short of statistical significance, there was a percentage decrease in glucose level above target (46.6 ± 29.17% vs. 27.6 ± 22.71%, P = 0.109) observed in the study group. Patients also experienced significantly reduced body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, body fat percentage, and Mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), Continuous overall net glycemic action (CONGA), and standard deviation values in comparison to baseline.

Conclusion:

Patients initiated onto the GLAM diet had better glycemic control, lipid profile, and glucose variability along with enhanced sleep, reduced stress, and improved nutrition understanding in study participants. In conclusion, the GLAM diet apart from reducing glycemic burden also helped to improve the overall quality of life.
Association of angiotensin-converting enzyme gene polymorphism (rs1799752) with type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension and chronic kidney disease and, its clinical relevance
Authors: Ramanathan Balaji , Nagarajan Gunavathy , Velayutham Kumaravel
Published: August 2023

Background:

The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) is important in regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance. The main effector hormone of the RAAS is angiotensin II, which is generated from angiotensin I in the circulation and in the tissues, mostly as a result of the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). The ACE gene has received substantial attention in recent years as a candidate gene for a variety of diseases.

Objective:

This study was conducted to determine the association of insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of ACE gene in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension (HT), and chronic kidney disease (CKD) subjects among South Indian regional population.

Methods:

A total of 105 subjects participated in this study including 30 T2DM (Group 1), 30 HT (Group 2), 35 CKD (Group 3) patients and 10 controls (Group 4). Blood samples were collected and biochemical investigations were done. Polymerase chain reaction amplification was performed to genotype the DNA. The distribution and allelic frequency of I/D (rs1799752) polymorphism at the 287-base pair Alu repeat sequence in the intron 16 of ACE gene were analyzed using specific primers.

Results:

The ACE genotypes were distributed as II, 17%; DD, 47%; and ID, 37% in the T2DM group; II, 10%; DD, 50%; and ID, 40% in the HT group; II, 17%; DD, 54%; and ID, 29% in the CKD group; and II, 50%; DD, 20%, and ID, 30% in the control group. The frequency of DD genotype was significantly higher in HT (P = 0.05) and CKD patients (P = 0.05) compared to controls. In codominant model analysis, DD genotype versus II genotype was associated with increased risk of T2DM (odds ratio [OR] = 4.37; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.31–14.504), HT (OR = 9.0; 95% CI = 2.23–36.17), and/or CKD (OR = 5.73; 95% CI = 1.906–17.282), respectively. The D allele was more frequent in T2DM (65%), HT (70%), and CKD patients (69%) compared to controls (35%) (P = 0.018, P = 0.005, and P = 0.006, respectively). The D allele was associated with increased risk of T2DM (OR = 3.44; 95% CI = 1.19–9.96), HT (OR = 4.33; 95% CI = 1.48–12.65), and CKD (OR = 4.05; 95% CI = 1.42–11.55).

Conclusion:

The DD genotype and the D allele of the ACE I/D gene polymorphism can be a risk factor for T2DM, HT, and CKD in South Indian regional population. This result suggests that T2DM and HT patients should be offered analysis to identify defects in ACE I/D polymorphism, which might help to determine the course of CKD disease and aid to choose appropriate antihypertensive therapy with ACE inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blockers.
Epidemiology of Infections in Diabetes, Pre and Post-COVID Era in India
Authors: Swain Jayshree , Singh Jaspreet , Manglunia Ankit , Jena Sushree , Sravya S. L.
Published: August 2023

Infectious diseases are more common and severe in diabetes. Diabetes predisposes to various infections through alterations in innate and acquired immune defences. Outcomes of infection are worse in people with uncontrolled glycemia, including an increased mortality. The infections can affect all organs and all systems. In patients with diabetes, the infections can be broadly classified into two categories. Infections that are common in the general population have more severe clinical presentation and worse outcomes among patients with diabetes. The second group is of infections that are peculiar to patients with diabetes, being virtually rare in the normal population, such as foot infections, malignant external otitis, rhinocerebral mucormycosis, emphysematous pyelonephritis and gangrenous cholecystitis, etc. Epidemiological data on the true incidence of atypical and rare infections are scarce. This review will highlight the prevalence, consequences, severity, and pattern of infections in the population with diabetes in India. This review of epidemiological prevalence may guide the clinicians for early suspicion, identification of infectious disease, and right selection of the antimicrobial agents which may lead to a better outcome.
Isotretinoin
Authors: Kandhari Rajat
Published: August 2023

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin, which presents as comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Based on the multifactorial pathogenesis, a range of treatment options exists. Isotretinoin is a wonder drug commonly used in the management of acne. Unfortunately, it is associated with specific adverse effects on account of the ubiquitous nature of the retinoic acid receptors, which regulate its mechanism of action. Majorly, these side effects are mild and can be taken care of by altering the dose or frequency. Severe side effects need more attention and have to be recognized early. The present article pertinently focuses on the side-effect profile of the drug isotretinoin and the management of those side effects for safer treatment of acne vulgaris.
Orthopedic acne
Authors: Kamra Nidhi , Tuknayat Ankita , Juneja Ruchi
Published: August 2023

Apert’s syndrome is a type 1 acrocephalosyndactyly syndrome presenting predominantly with craniofacial malformations and syndactyly of the hands and feet. A case presenting to the dermatologist with recalcitrant acne on unusual sites and having preauricular skin tags as a previously undescribed clinical feature is being presented and a review of all the cases in dermatological literature has been evaluated.
Alterations of thyroid functions in patients with nonsegmental vitiligo
Authors: Abd-Elmagid Wafaa M. , Hagag Dalia S. , Sayed Sherif A. , Aboelfetoh Sahar , Saleh Ramadan
Published: August 2023

Background

Autoimmunity is the most commonly accepted theory in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. This is supported by the association of vitiligo with many other autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto thyroiditis and Graves’ disease.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the laboratory profiles of a cohort of patients with nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV).

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study included 100 patients with NSV and 100 age-matched and sex-matched healthy volunteers as controls. Laboratory workup included thyroid-stimulating hormone, triiodothyronine, thyroxine, free thyroxine, antithyroid peroxidase antibody, antithyroglobulin antibody, and antinuclear antibody (ANA).

Results

Thyroid-stimulating hormone, triiodothyronine, and thyroxine showed a significant difference between patients with vitiligo and control (P=0.007). There was a statistically significant increase in the level of antithyroid peroxidase antibody (P=0.000) and antithyroglobulin antibody (P=0.000) antibodies in patients with NSV.

Conclusion

NSV is associated with disturbance of thyroid function tests and significant increase of thyroid autoantibodies.
Evaluation of virtual dermatology clinic experience during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, advantages, and disadvantages
Authors: Almukhadeb Eman A. , Alotaibi Hend , Alturki Abdulaziz , Alkheraiji Asma , AlBalbessi Amal , Bukhari Abrar
Published: August 2023

Introduction

During the current lockdown due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the healthcare system should be modified to reach out to a large number of patients with effective service. Virtual clinics are one possible solution to the challenges healthcare systems face worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aim

To evaluate the experience of the virtual clinic in Dermatology Department at King Khaled University Hospital and to evaluate its advantages and disadvantages, and whether or not this service is practical to apply in the future.

Patients and methods

To assess the patients’ attitude toward virtual clinics, 1220 patients were offered a phone consultation during May 2020. A questionnaire was drafted with 23 questions sent to all the patients via cellular text. Seven of these questions were related to patient demographics. The remaining questions assessed patient satisfaction, occupational efficiency, and quality of care. Statistical analysis was performed using R v 3.6.3. Sociodemographic characteristics were included as independent variables. Ordinal logistic regression was used to assess patient satisfaction. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with satisfaction.

Results

Only 115 patients responded to the survey. About 34.8% of them found virtual clinics more comfortable compared with face-to-face visits, and 65.2% were satisfied with the care received through these clinics. However, 34.8% of the patients could not know the appropriate treatment, and 37.4% thought they did not receive all the needed information about their health condition. Overall, 71.3% of the patients were satisfied with the provided diagnosis. The most common reason for nonsatisfaction with virtual clinics was the lack of clinical examination (62.39%) and difficulty communicating with the physician (42.94%).

Conclusion

Virtual dermatology clinics can provide satisfactory dermatology care services to the patients during COVID-19 and can reduce the risk of exposure and transmission of the virus. These services have optimal occupational efficiency, patient-satisfaction rate, and quality of care.
Clinicodemographic and laboratory features of 200 Egyptian psoriatic patients
Authors: Aboeldahab Soha , El-Hamd Mohammed A. , Hamed Bakla Rehab M. , Abdel-Aziz Nada Essam
Published: August 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a common and complex multifactorial disease, in which both genetic and extrinsic factors contribute to activating an immunological reaction.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, demographic, and laboratory characteristics of Egyptian psoriatic patients in Sohag, Upper Egypt. Patients and methods This study was a cross-sectional hospital-based study conducted on 200 Egyptian psoriatic patients. All the patients were subjected to complete demographic, clinical, and laboratory evaluations.

Results

Of the 200 Egyptian patients with psoriasis, the mean age was 42.83±17.3 years; 60% were males, 53% were from rural areas, 47% were smokers, 66% were with positive family history, 91% were with gradual onset, 75% were with a progressive course, and 6.99±3.9 months was the mean duration of the diseases. The main associated symptom with psoriasis was itching in 72%. Psoriasis vulgaris was the most common type in 69.5%. Upper limbs were the most commonly affected sites in 78% of the psoriatic patients. Seasonal variation was the most common exacerbating factor in 51.5% of psoriatic patients. Iron-deficiency anemia was detected in 31% of the psoriatic patients. Liver diseases were associated comorbidities with 29.5% of psoriatic patients and hepatitis C virus infection was presented in 4.5% of psoriatic patients. Metabolic syndrome and stress were detected in 36 and 21% of psoriatic patients, respectively.

Conclusion

The healthcare providers and patients should be aware of the early detection of associated comorbidities with psoriasis to avoid major complications. The recognition of stress and its specific treatment should be considered an integral part of the treatment of psoriatic patients. Screening for hepatitis is important in Egyptian psoriatic patients. Consanguineous marriage should be avoided in patients with a family history of psoriasis.
Molecular detection of drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum mutants in Assam
Authors: Barman Lipika , Sharma Ajanta , Kakati Sanjeeb , Sarma Devojit Kr. , Hussain Ezaz , Saikia Lahari
Published: August 2023

Background & objectives:

The spread of drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) poses a serious threat to the control and elimination of malaria. The objective of this study was to detect the molecular biomarkers of antimalarial drug resistance in Pf in patients visiting a tertiary care hospital in Assam.

Methods:

Malaria was first detected in fever cases using microscopy and a rapid diagnostic test (RDT), and then confirmed using PCR. Pf chloroquine resistance transporter (Pfcrt), Pf multidrug resistance-1 (Pfmdr-1), and single-nucleotide polymorphisms linked to delayed parasite clearance after treatment with artemisinin MAL 10-688956 and MAL 13-1718319 and Kelch-13 propeller (PfK-13) genes were evaluated by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP).

Results:

Sixty nine cases of malaria were found among 300 cases of fever. Of these, 54 were positive for Pf, 47 of which were confirmed by PCR. Pfcrt-K76T mutation was seen in 96.6 per cent and Pfmdr1-N86Y mutation in 84.2 per cent of cases. Mutation was not detected in MAL10 and MAL13 genes. Sequence analysis of Kelch-13 gene showed the presence of a novel mutation at amino acid position 675. Statistically, no significant association was found between the molecular biomarkers and demographic profile, clinical presentation and outcome of the cases.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Molecular surveillance is essential to assess the therapeutic efficacy of the drugs against circulating Pf isolates in Assam which are found to be highly resistant to CQ. The role of the new mutation found in the Kelch-13 gene in the development of artemisinin resistance in Assam needs to be thoroughly monitored in future research.
Congenital Anonychia with Brachydactyly with Novel, Unilateral Congenital Hypoglossal Nerve Palsy and Staghorn Renal Calculus
Authors: Marak Anita , Khawbung Ellis , Jabbar Shakeel A. , Shakthi B.
Published: August 2023

Congenital anonychia is a relatively rare abnormality of nail development affecting all or some of the finger and toe nails, characterized by either complete absence of nails or hypoplasia of nails. We report a rare case of congenital anonychia with brachydactyly with unique congenital abnormalities of heart-shaped tongue, congenital hypoglossal nerve palsy, and staghorn calculus. To our knowledge, these associations have never been described before and do not fall under any known syndromic entity.
Individualized Dupilumab Therapy in the Treatment of Pediatric Patients with Severe Atopic Dermatitis: Case Series in a Malaysian Tertiary Center
Authors: Lee Wai Quen , Nordin Siti Nuraihan , Ibrahim Sabeera Begum Kader , Leong Kin Fon
Published: August 2023

To look at patient characteristics, response to dupilumab, and adverse events due to treatment. This was a retrospective review of all pediatric patients on dupilumab and topical corticosteroids for severe atopic dermatitis in Paediatric Dermatology Clinic, Women and Children Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, from 2020 to 2021. In this cohort, 50% achieved Eczema area and severity index (EASI) -75 by week 12, 25% at week 16, and 25% at week 56. Three of four patients achieved EASI-75 at a median of 12 weeks of treatment, despite not receiving loading doses of dupilumab. None of our patients had conjunctivitis or upper respiratory tract infection while treated with dupilumab. In conclusion, dupilumab is a safe and effective drug to induce remission in severe pediatric eczema, without undesirable side effects in our cohort. In a resource-limited setting, individualized treatment regimen without loading doses is as effective as fixed-dose regimens with loading doses to achieve EASI-75.
A Challenging Case of Recalcitrant Hyper-IgE Syndrome Successfully Treated with Omalizumab
Authors: Shahid Rashid , Pradhan Swetalina , Singh Suvesh
Published: August 2023

Hyper-IgE syndrome (HIES) is a rare group of primary immunodeficiency diseases characterized by elevated IgE levels, eosinophilia, recurrent pyoderma, ear infection, eczematous dermatitis, and pulmonary infection. The treatment depends on the clinical presentation of the disease. The eczematous skin lesions usually respond to a topical steroid, calcineurin inhibitors, and sometimes, based on severity, systemic drugs are given. The secondary infections are usually treated with oral and topical antibiotics. We are describing a case of HIES who presented with severe recalcitrant itchy oozy eczematous skin lesions which did not respond to conventional systemic drugs and were later on controlled with injection omalizumab. In addition, we have discussed the HIES in detail in the current article.
Type 2 Inflammatory Diseases in Atopic Dermatitis: A Short Review
Authors: Choudhary Ankita , Agarwal Pooja , Kulkarni Sandeep , Madke Bhushan
Published: August 2023

Type 2 inflammatory diseases are characterized by the dysregulation of the T helper (Th) 2 pathway, the prototype being atopic dermatitis (AD). The common inflammatory pathways, genetic risk factors, epidermal barrier dysfunction, parental atopy, and environmental factors are all associated with the codevelopment of type 2 inflammatory diseases in patients with AD. Acute skin barrier disruption leads to the production of both alarmin and dopamine, both of which promote Th2 skewing and mast cell activation, which then finally leads to inflammation, pruritus, and initiation of type 2 immune responses. Since AD is considered “starting point” for various other allergic diseases, its judicious management can help in decreasing the comorbidity posed by respiratory allergy and allergic rhinitis. This review discusses our current understanding of the type 2 inflammation in AD and highlights the nuances between the various type 2 inflammatory disorders. The article tends to focus on the fact that type 2 inflammatory diseases have a significant burden in patients with AD and it is far beyond the cutaneous manifestations and the “Atopic March.” There is an emphasis on early identification and an integrative approach in the treatment of AD in order to alleviate the overall disease morbidity. Type 2 immunity will be reviewed in the light of the prevailing as well as forthcoming targeted treatment options for AD and other related type 2 inflammatory disorders.
Pimpinella pruatjan Molk: LC-MS/MS-QTFT Analysis of Bioactive Compounds from Decoction and Ethanol Extract of Aerial Parts
Authors: Timotius Kris Herawan , Rahayu Ika , Nurcahyanti Agustina Dwi Retno
Published: August 2023

ABSTRACT

Pimpinella pruatjan Molk is native to Java and well known as aphrodisiac in traditional medicine. A water-boiled extract of the plant has been used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). No study has been found on the phytochemical constituents and identification of corresponding biological activities in water and polar extract. This study is aimed to identify phytoconstituents of a decoction and ethanol extract from the aerial parts of P. pruatjan Molk. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) was used to analyze and predict the bioactive compounds in both extracts. LC-MS/MS revealed both extracts contained two important compounds: Luteolin-7-O-β-D glucopyranoside and Undulatoside A. Luteolin and Luteolin glucoside are also found in P.anisum L. Lutein 7-O glucoside was found in water extract, while more bioactive compounds, including populnin, 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid, quercetin-3’- O glucoside, methylophiopogononeone-A, kaempferol-7-O-α-L-arabinofuranoside, and 7-hydroxy-3,5,6,3’,4’- pentamethoxyflavone, were found in ethanol extract. Accumulation of flavonoids, phenols, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, and furanochromone in low quantities was observed in both extracts. This is the first report providing evidence justifying its use as a traditional medicine. Further investigation into the pharmacology mechanism of action is required.
Pharmacokinetic Assessment of Isoniazid and Acetylisoniazid in Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injury Model in Wistar Rats
Authors: Sharma Swati , Anand Aishwarya , Verma Nipun , Sharma Vishal , Bhatia Alka , Patil Amol N. , Banerjee Dibyajyoti
Published: August 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

N-acetyl transferase 2 (NAT2) polymorphism testing could not see the light of success as a biomarker tool in tuberculosis management. Additionally, the antitubercular treatment (ATT) drug’s reintroduction regimen variations exist because of the scarcity of robust preclinical evidence on ATT drug metabolism.

Objective:

The experiment was planned to understand the pharmacokinetic (PK) behavior of isoniazid and acetylisoniazid (AcINH) in a Wistar rat model of acute liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and preclinical drug-induced liver injury (DILI) model induced with CCl4 + anti-Tuberculosis (TB) drugs together.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty rats were used for the experiment and were divided into five groups. All rats were administered a single 0.5 ml/kg CCl4 intraperitoneal injection on day 0 to induce an animal model of DILI. Group I rats received CCl4 alone. Groups II–V were started on additional gavage feedings of isoniazid (H) alone, H plus rifampicin (R), H plus pyrazinamide (Z), and H, R, and Z together, respectively, daily for 21 days subsequently. Isoniazid and AcINH PK assessment was accomplished on day 20 of continuous once-daily dosing. Liver function test (LFT) monitoring was done at baseline on days 1, 7, and 21. On the last day of experiments, all experimental rats were sacrificed.

Results:

Three-week ATT administration sustained the CCl4-induced LFT changes. Area under the curve (AUC) values for isoniazid and AcINH were found to be 2.24 and 1.69 times higher in the H + R group compared with the CCl4 + H group, respectively (P < 0.05). Isoniazid and AcINH maximum concentration (Cmax) reached the highest, while isoniazid clearance reached the lowest in the H + R group. AcINH AUC increased by double in the CCl4 + Isoniazid+Rifampicin+Pyrazinamide (HRZ) group compared with the CCl4 + H group (P < 0.05). Biochemical, histological, and antioxidant changes were consistent with the new liver injury model’s development.

Conclusion:

Rifampicin almost doubles up the isoniazid and AcINH exposure, in presence if DILI.
Detection of Antinuclear Antibodies in Oncology from Slide to Multiplexing
Authors: Kaler Amrit Kaur , Gaur Ravi , Jain Anita , Rajan Junu , Rao Vishal US
Published: August 2023

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are autoantibodies considered as the immune biomarkers of systemic autoimmune diseases. ANAs are directed against antigens of the cell nucleus and are named after their biochemical characteristics (deoxyribonucleic acid [DNA], histones, ribonucleoprotiens), the disease is associated with the corresponding autoantibody, e.g., Sjögren syndrome antigen A [SS-A] and Systemic Sclerosis (SS-B); progressive systemic sclerosis, polymyositis, or occasionally after the patient in whom the corresponding antibody was first detected (Sm, Ro, La). Positive ANA can also be used as an aid to early diagnosis of solid tumors and prognosis in hematological malignancies such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients. Positive ANA has been found in the sera from patients with head and neck, lung, breast cancers by multiple studies. Most commonly patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) frequently present with autoimmune disorders (AIDs) which include autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), immune thrombocytopenia, pure red cell aplasia and autoimmune granulocytopenia, and nonhematological AIDs such as paraneoplastic pemphigus, neuropathies, SS, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The presence of AIHA was previously demonstrated to be a poor prognostic indicator and also proved the negative survival impact of positive direct antiglobulin test on CLL patients.
Comprehensive survey study on fifth-generation wireless network and the internet of things
Authors: Mwang'onda Arthur Nathaniel , Phiri Menard
Published: August 2023

Internet of Things is the interconnection of different components so that it should be able to communicate to each other to achieve a common goal. Therefore, for these components to communicate there will be a need of the communication Technologies. With the coming in of 5G wireless Network which provide more ability over the 2G,3G, 4G and other communication technologies. In this survey paper focuses much on what have been done before with 5G wireless Network in relation to Internet of Things, Application of 5G IoT, it also describes the various challenges which may arise when implementing it and the research questions. The next-generation protocol that will help to alleviate the current challenges which have been encountered. This paper will analyze the comprehensive survey on fifth-generation wireless network and Internet of Things from different papers and this will help to map the way forward on what best can apply 5G and other protocols in Internet of things.
Cyber Attacks Classification on Enriching IoT Datasets
Authors: Hasan Jarjis Alend , Yousef Saleem Al Zubaidi Nassima , Kurt Pehlivanoglu Meltem
Published: August 2023

In the era of the 5.0 industry, the use of the Internet of Things (IoT) has increased. The data generates from sensors through IoT industrial systems, any fault in those systems affects their performance and leads to real disaster. Protecting them from any possible attacks is an essential task. to secure any system, it needs to predict in the first place possible attacks and faults that could happen in the future. Predicting and initiating the attack type and the accuracy of these predictions can be done with machine learning models nowadays on the datasets produced with IoT networks. This paper classifies several attacks type based on several criteria and techniques to enhance the performance of machine learning (ML) models such as Voting techniques beside six ML models; Random Forest (RF), Decision Tree (DT), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Logistic regression (LR), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) using Enriching IoT dataset. The results showed that 100% accuracy was achieved in estimating process with the XGBoost model.
Finiteness properties for relatives of braided Higman–Thompson groups
Authors: Skipper Rachel , Wu Xiaolei
Published: August 2023

We study the finiteness properties of the braided Higman–Thompson group

bV_{d,r}(H)

with labels in

H\leq B_d

, and

bF_{d,r}(H)

and

bT_{d,r}(H)

with labels in

H\leq PB_d

, where

B_d

is the braid group with

d

strings and

PB_d

is its pure braid subgroup. We show that for all

d\geq 2

and

r\geq 1

, the group

bV_{d,r}(H)

(resp.

bT_{d,r}(H)

or

bF_{d,r}(H)

) is of type

F_n

if and only if

H

is. Our result in particular confirms a recent conjecture of Aroca and Cumplido.