bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neutrophil extracellular traps in the pathology of cancer and other inflammatory diseases
Authors: Herre Melanie , Cedervall Jessica , Mackman Nigel , Olsson Anna-Karin
Published: August 2022

Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, first described in 2004 as a previously unknown strategy of neutrophils to fight microbes, has attracted an increasing interest in the research community. NETs are formed when neutrophils externalize their decondensed chromatin together with content from their azurophilic granules. In addition to their role in defense against microbes, NETs have been implicated as mediators of pathology in sterile inflammation, such as cancer and autoimmunity, and their potential as therapeutic targets is actively explored. However, targeting of NETs is challenging since the beneficial effects of their removal need to be balanced against the potential harmful loss of their function in microbial defense. Moreover, depending on the stimuli or species, NETs can be formed via distinct mechanisms and are not always made up of the same components, making direct comparisons between various studies challenging. This review focuses on the role of NETs in cancer-associated pathology, such as thrombosis, organ dysfunction, and metastasis. Different strategies to target NETs, by either preventing their formation or degrading existing ones, are also discussed.
A Blind Load-Balancing Algorithm (BLBA) for Distributing Tasks in Fog Nodes
Authors: Tahmasebi-Pouya Niloofar , Sarram Mehdi-Agha , Mostafavi Seyedakbar
Published: August 2022

In the distributed infrastructure of fog computing, fog nodes (FNs) can process user requests locally. In order to reduce the delay and response time of a user’s requests, incoming requests must be evenly distributed among FNs. For this purpose, in this paper, we propose a blind load-balancing algorithm (BLBA) to improve the load distribution in the fog environment. In the proposed algorithm, the mobile device sends a task to a FN. Then, the FN decides to process that task using the Double-

Q

-learning algorithm. One of the critical advantages of BLBA is that decision-making on tasks is done without any knowledge of the state of neighbor nodes. The proposed system consists of four layers: (i) IoT layer, (ii) fog layer, (iii) proxy server layer, and (iv) cloud layer. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm with proper distribution of tasks between nodes significantly reduces the delay and user response time compared to the existing methods.
Implication of Salivary Biochemical Parameters for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Shrestha Sneha , Pokhrel Sushant , Poudel Anjali , Bhandari BC Shristi , Shakya Mudita , Timilsina Alaska , Sapkota Manisha , Pardhe Bashu Dev
Published: August 2022

Background. Clinical laboratory diagnosis and prognosis for diabetes mellitus is performed using blood as a major specimen; however, saliva may represent as an alternative noninvasive specimen of choice. This study aims to evaluate salivary biochemical parameters in diabetic and healthy individuals to substantiate saliva’s role in the diagnosis and prognosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods. This case-control study included 150 T2DM patients and 150 apparently healthy individuals. Socio-demographic data and anthropometric measurements were recorded using a standard questionnaire. Correlation between salivary and blood levels for each parameter was determined using Pearson correlation. Linear regression was performed to estimate the blood levels of the parameters from their salivary levels. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was done to determine the diagnostic ability of salivary glucose and establish a sensitivity, specificity, and cut-off value. Results. Salivary glucose, TC, LDL-C, urea, and creatinine were significantly higher in people with diabetes than in the control population (

p
<
0.05

). A significant positive correlation was found between salivary and blood parameters including glucose, TC, TG, LDL-C, urea, and creatinine except for HDL-C in both case and control groups. The linear relationship for each parameter, except glucose in case population and HDL-C in case, control, and the total population was observed between blood and saliva. ROC analysis gave a cut-off value of 1.9 mg/dl for salivary glucose with 71.4% sensitivity and 72.3% specificity. Conclusion. Salivary estimation significantly reflects the blood parameters in this study, indicating that saliva can be a noninvasive specimen for the diagnosis and prognosis of T2DM.
Exploring the Application of Online Teaching Platform in the PBL Teaching Mode of Film and Television Courses for Teacher Trainees
Authors: Peng Jian , Yuan Meng
Published: August 2022

The aim of the study is to deeply study the effect of the PBL teaching mode in improving students’ problem-solving ability, learning interest and autonomous learning ability. This study takes the practice teaching of film and television courses for normal students as the research object, constructs a general network teaching platform based on B/s and PBL teaching mode, deeply investigates the teaching status of film and television production practice courses, and selects the experimental class and control board to test the PBL teaching mode. The test results show that 13 students in the experimental class have a general learning attitude, 12 students have a good learning attitude, 7 students have a good learning attitude, and 5 students have a very correct learning attitude. This shows that 24 students have a positive learning attitude in the PBL teaching mode, which shows that they are very interested in learning information technology courses. At the same time, it also verifies the feasibility of the PBL teaching mode. At the same time, on this basis, this study puts forward some suggestions for the optimization of PBL teaching design under the network teaching platform.
Crystallization and Melting Behavior of UHMWPE Composites Filled by Different Carbon Materials
Authors: Li Anqi , Li Fuzhen , Mai Kancheng , Zhang Zishou
Published: August 2022

In order to understand the effect of different carbon materials on the crystallization and melting behavior of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), UHMWPE composites were prepared by different carbon materials through solution mixing in this paper. UHMWPE was oxidized to improve the interfacial interaction between UHMWPE and carbon materials. The UHMWPE composites and oxidized UHMWPE composites were prepared using granular graphite particle (GP), graphite nanoplatelets (GNP), and flaky graphene oxide (GO) as fillers. The effect of the type and the content of carbon materials and the oxidization of UHMWPE on crystallization and melting temperatures, crystallinity, and crystal form of UHMWPE and oxidized UHMWPE composites was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectrum, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results indicated that there are coexistence of the heterogeneous nucleation and the hindering effect of crystal growth by carbon materials for UHMWPE crystallization. The different influence of carbon materials on the crystallization and melting behavior of UHMWPE was discussed by the heterogeneous nucleation of carbon materials and the restriction of the macromolecular chain motion of UHMWPE by carbon materials.
Mathematics Deep Learning Teaching Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Duan Yonghua
Published: August 2022

Deep learning is an important concept introduced into modern learning science. It is different from the surface learning of mechanically and passively acquiring knowledge and storing individual information but emphasizes learners’ active and critical learning. It wants them to understand the full meaning of what they have learned. By establishing a link between existing knowledge and new knowledge, it transfers existing knowledge to a new environment, makes decisions, and solves problems. Deep learning plays an important role in students’ learning. Deep learning ability is the key factor affecting the quality of learning and the development of students’ academic ability. The quality of in-depth teaching is difficult to guarantee, which requires a complete, comprehensive, and evaluation system to evaluate it. This paper introduces the analytic hierarchy process to weight the indexes in mathematics deep learning and puts forward some suggestions on creating an environment for deep learning. The experimental results show that teachers’ teaching accounts for the highest proportion of primary indicators, reaching 67%. Multimedia resources account for the highest proportion of secondary indicators, reaching 73.01%. This paper then puts forward some suggestions for indicators with large weights.
Effects of Resveratrol Against Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats: Role of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Reda Doha , Elshopakey Gehad E. , Mahgoub Hebatallah A. , Risha Engy F. , Khan Anmar A. , Rajab Bodour S. , El-Boshy Mohamed E. , Abdelhamid Fatma M.
Published: August 2022

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a serious health problem associated with an increase in risk factors for hepatic steatosis, which is the most common liver disease today. The goal of this study was to investigate the protective effects of resveratrol against metabolic alterations associated with a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFFD). Thirty-two male rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: control (cont.), metabolic syndrome (MS), resveratrol (Res), and metabolic syndrome treated with resveratrol (MS + Res). Resveratrol was administrated orally at a dose of 30 mg/kg·bw, daily. After 10 weeks, body weight, serum biochemical parameters, hepatic oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, as well as mRNA levels of hepatic genes related to lipid metabolism and insulin signaling were measured. In addition, the liver was examined histopathologically to detect lipid deposition. Increased body weight, hepatic dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hepatic insulin resistance, hepatic oxidative and inflammatory stress conditions, upregulation of mRNA expression level of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1-c (SREBP1-c), and downregulation of mRNA expression levels of peroxisome proliferated activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and insulin receptor substrate-2 (IR-S2) were all observed in the MS rats. Hepatic steatosis was confirmed by hematoxylin and eosin and Oil Red O staining. Administration of resveratrol reduced liver steatosis, oxidative stress, and inflammatory state. Also, it improved lipid profile as well as insulin sensitivity and reverted alterations in hepatic mRNA expression levels of the tested genes. Based on these findings, resveratrol could be proposed as a therapeutic approach for MS prevention.
Effect of Calcium Channel Blockers versus Diuretics for Hypertension
Authors: Chunxue Yi , Jianming Zhang , Jianbing Wang
Published: August 2022

Background. Although calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are recognized as clinical first‐line agents for the treatment of hypertension, their use in combination with diuretics in cardiovascular disease caused by hypertension remains controversial. Methods. We searched the three major databases of the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and PubMed for the terms “calcium channel blockers,” “thiazide diuretics,” “loop diuretics,” and “hypertension,” “randomized controlled trials” and “meta‐analysis trials.” These terms were searched from January 1991 to October 2021. Results. For the primary outcome, in 5 studies including 35,057 patients, there was no statistically significant difference in all‐cause mortality with calcium channel blockers compared with diuretics (RR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.92–1.04, I2 = 0). In four studies including 33,643 patients with major cardiovascular events, there was no statistically significant difference in major cardiovascular events with calcium channel blockers compared with diuretics (RR = 1.00, 95% CI 1.04–1.09, I2 = 0). Conclusion. There is no statistically significant difference between calcium channel blockers and diuretics in terms of cardiovascular clinical prognosis in hypertensive patients, but there are positive implications for clinical guidance, which need to be fully validated in new large randomized controlled trials.
Application of Artificial Intelligence within Virtual Reality for Production of Digital Media Art
Authors: Wu Yunxuan
Published: August 2022

As technology changes, virtual reality generates realistic images through computer graphics and provides users with an immersive experience through various interactive means. In the context of digitalization, the application of VR for digital media art creation becomes a normalized method. Today’s digital media art creation is closely related to vigorous technological innovation behind it, so the influence of modern technology is inevitable. Virtual reality and artificial intelligence have gradually become the main technical means in line with the development aim for digital media art creation. This work proposes an art object detection method AODNET in virtual reality digital media art creation with AI. Aiming at the particularity of object detection in this direction, an art object detection strategy based on residual network and clustering idea is proposed. First of all, it uses ResNet50 as backbone, which deepens network depth and improves the model feature extraction ability. Second, it uses the K-means++ algorithm to perform clustering statistics on the size of the real annotated boxes in the dataset to obtain appropriate hyperparameters for preset candidate boxes, which enhances the tolerance of the algorithm to the target size. Third, it replaces the ROI pooling algorithm with ROI align to eliminate the error caused by the quantization operation on the characteristics of the candidate region. Fourth, to reduce the missed detection rate of overlapping targets, soft-NMS algorithm is used instead of the NMS algorithm to post-process the candidate boxes. Finally, this work conducts extensive experiments to verify the superiority of AODNET for object detection in virtual reality digital media art creation.
Associated Factors for Prostate Enlargement in Chinese Adult Men Aged <40 Receiving Checkups
Authors: Zhang Xiaoma , Xiao Li , Zhang Li , Zhou Jun , Hao Zongyao , Yang Cheng , Liang Chaozhao
Published: August 2022

Purpose. Prostate enlargement (PE) is an increase in prostate volume in morphology. PE was also observed in some patients aged <40 with chronic prostatitis. This study aimed to explore the associated factors for PE in Chinese adult men aged <40. Methods. The medical records of 1851 consecutive Chinese adult men aged <40 in a single center were retrospectively analyzed. The checkup indicator characteristics between the PE and non-PE groups were compared by univariate analysis, and the associated factors were analyzed by multivariate analysis. Results. The overall prevalence of PE (defined as prostate volume ≥ 20 ml) in adult men aged < 40 was 10.4%. Age and the proportions of subjects with prostate calcification or hypertension were different between the PE and non-PE groups (

P
<
0.05

). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that prostate calcification (odds ratio [OR], 1.831; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.281–2.619;

P
=
0.001

), hypertension (OR, 1.528; 95% CI, 1.125–2.076;

P
=
0.007

), and age (OR, 1.117; 95% CI, 1.078–1.159;

P
<
0.001

) were associated factors for PE in adult men aged <40. Conclusions. The prevalence of PE in Chinese adult check-up men aged <40 was not rare. In addition to age, prostate calcification and hypertension were associated factors for PE in Chinese adult men aged <40.
Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis and Comparison of In‐Plane Strength of Circular and Parabolic Arched I‐Section Cellular Steel Beam
Authors: Zewudie Besukal Befikadu
Published: August 2022

The advancement in steel fabrication technology extends the structural and constructional advantages of cellular steel beams into arched cellular steel structure members. However, less attention is given to understanding the in‐plane and out‐of‐plane structural behavior and performance of arched cellular steel beams. This article presents a numerical study using the finite element package ABAQUS to investigate the effect of arch axis geometry (circular and parabolic) and the impact of end support types on the in‐plane inelastic buckling strength and buckling mode of I‐section arched cellular steel beams. In the nonlinear finite element analysis of the model material nonlinearity, a second‐order effect due to large deformation and initial geometric imperfection was incorporated in predicting inelastic buckling load and buckling mode. Furthermore, finite element analysis results were verified by comparing them to the existing experimental work. Test models covering shallow to deep arches of subtended angle in a range of 45–180 were investigated under uniformly distributed vertical loads and mid‐span point loads. It was found that nonlinear finite element results fairly replicate the experimental work in predicting inelastic buckling load and post‐buckling behavior. From the parametric investigation, it was found that deep parabolic arched cellular steel beams are structurally more efficient than their equivalent circular arched cellular steel beams. Pinned in‐plane and free out‐of‐plane end support conditions result in a reduced inelastic ultimate buckling load capacity of arched cellular steel members when compared to other possible end support types. The geometry of an arch axis has no noticeable impact on the buckling mode of arched cellular steel beams.
Massive Acquired Renal Cysts Presenting with Bowel Obstruction-Like Symptoms
Authors: Teparak Chutikarn , Tawanwongsri Weeratian
Published: August 2022

Acquired cystic kidney disease (ACKD) is rarely massive in size. The great majority is asymptomatic and incidentally found on imaging studies for unrelated causes. We reported a case of an 85-year-old male with bilateral multiple huge acquired renal infected cysts, initially presenting with bowel obstruction-like symptoms. The computed tomography (CT) scan later aided in an accurate diagnosis. Symptomatic huge ACKD has, to our knowledge, scarcely been described. In addition, retroperitoneal lesions resulting in abdominal pain remain unusual and underrecognized in general practice.
An Improved Clustering Algorithm Based on Density Peak and Nearest Neighbors
Authors: Zhao Chao , Yang Junchuang , Wen Kexin
Published: August 2022

Aiming at the problems that the initial cluster centers are randomly selected and the number of clusters is manually determined in traditional clustering algorithm, which results in unstable clustering results, we propose an improved clustering algorithm based on density peak and nearest neighbors. Firstly, an improved density peak clustering method is proposed to optimize the cutoff distance and local density of data points. It avoids that random selection of initial cluster centers is easy to fall into the local optimal solution. Furthermore, a K-value selection method is presented to choose the optimal number of clusters, which is determined by the sum of the squared errors within the clusters. Finally, we employ the idea of the K-nearest neighbors to carry out the assignment for outliers. Experiments on the UCI real data sets indicate that our proposed algorithm can achieve better clustering results compared with several known algorithms.
Clothing Design Style Recommendation Using Decision Tree Algorithm Combined with Deep Learning
Authors: Yang Baojuan
Published: August 2022

Most clothing recommendation methods have problems such as high resource consumption and inconsistent subjectively labeled clothing labels. Based on this, a multilabel classification algorithm based on deep learning (DL) theory is introduced, based on which the clothing style recognition model is constructed. Next, the concept of the decision tree algorithm is given, and the clothing recommendation model is built based on this algorithm. Moreover, the clothing style recognition model based on a multilabel classification algorithm and the clothing recommendation system based on a decision tree algorithm are tested by building simulation experiments and combining neural network technology. Finally, the application of the decision tree algorithm and DL theory in clothing recommendation design is studied through the literature collection method. The research focus is to realize the recognition of clothing through decision tree algorithm and DL method to achieve the intelligent recommendation of clothing style. The results show that: (1) the neural network technology in DL theory can realize efficient recognition and classification of clothing style by automatically extracting image features and combining with a multilabel classification algorithm. (2) The decision tree algorithm can make an initial recommendation according to users’ style preferences, then make implicit recommendations through user retrieval, browsing, and other operations, and make dynamic clothing style recommendations to users. (3) When the neural network based on a multilabel classification algorithm is trained, the precision, recall rate, and F1 values are 0.73, 0.43, and 0.55, respectively. (4) After using the clothing recommendation system based on the decision tree algorithm, the subjects’ average satisfaction is 86.25%, indicating that this system can give users a better clothing recommendation experience. This exploration aims to provide a crucial reference for further improving the quality of clothing recommendation services. It has important theoretical significance and practical value for the development of artificial intelligence in the field of fashion design, and is expected to provide a reference for the development of bionics.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cardiovascular Diseases: Sad Realities and Untold Truths regarding Care of Patients in 2022
Authors: Gunta Satya Preetham , Jakulla Roopesh Sai , Ubaid Aamer , Mohamed Kareem , Bhat Abid , López-Candales Angel , Norgard Nicholas
Published: August 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most common and serious sleep-related breathing disorders with a high prevalence among patients with cardiovascular (CV) diseases. Despite its widespread presence, OSA remains severely undiagnosed and untreated. CV mortality and morbidity are significantly increased in the presence of OSA as it is associated with an increased risk of resistant hypertension, heart failure, arrhythmias, and coronary artery disease. Evaluation and treatment of OSA should focus on recognizing patients at risk of developing OSA. The use of screening questionnaires should be routine, but a formal polysomnography sleep study is fundamental in establishing and classifying OSA. Recognition of OSA patients will allow for the institution of appropriate therapy that should alleviate OSA-related symptoms with the intent of decreasing adverse CV risk. In this review, we focus on the impact OSA has on CV disease and evaluate contemporary OSA treatments. Our goal is to heighten awareness among CV practitioners.
Drying Kinetics and Chemical Properties of Mango
Authors: Ampah Jonathan , Dzisi Komla Agbeko , Addo Ahmad , Bart-Plange Ato
Published: August 2022

Four mango fruit varieties of average slice thickness 0.6 cm and slice area 10 cm2 were dried using a mechanical dryer at varied temperatures, 55°C, 65°C, and 75°C. In general, the moisture content (MC) for all samples analyzed decreased with increasing drying time. Palmer and Haden varieties recorded the lowest MCs of 8.7% (w.b.) and 9.3% (w.b.), respectively, when dried for 14 h at 65°C. Palmer variety with the highest initial MC of 87.2% (w.b.) recorded a low final MC of 8.7% (w.b.) when dried for 14 h at 55°C. Moisture ratio decreased from 1.00 to 0.13, 1.00 to 0.12, 1.00 to 0.12, and 1.00 to 0.10 at 55°C for Kent, Keitt, Haden, and Palmer varieties, respectively. Kent, Keitt, Haden, and Palmer varieties recorded effective moisture diffusivity values of

5.90
×

10

–
7

,

6.40
×

10

−
7

,

6.57
×

10

−
7

, and

7.33
×

10

−
7

 

m

2

/
s

, respectively. Vitamin C content of 158.34 mg/100 g recorded for Palmer was highest compared to the other varieties. Activation energy values of samples analyzed were between 19.90 and 25.50 kJ/mol for the drying temperature range. The activation energy recorded by Haden variety was highest compared to the rest. Also, twelve mathematical models were analyzed in predicting the moisture ratio of mango fruit slices during thin layer drying. The results showed that the Midilli, Page, Wang and Singh, and Logarithmic models exhibited supremacy in predicting drying behavior compared to the other eight models.
Contribution of Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate to Predict Disease Severity and Outcome in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Kurt Celali , Altunçeki̇ç Yildirim Arzu
Published: August 2022

Aim. The use of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to determine disease severity and prognosis is limited. This study aimed to interrogate the diagnostic and prognostic role of ESR compared to other acute-phase reactants. Method. This retrospective cross-sectional study included 493 confirmed and hospitalized adult COVID-19 patients. Pneumonia, radiological severity, oxygen, intensive care requirements, mortality, ESR, and other acute-phase reactant values were recorded. Logistic regression and ROC analysis identified the effect of ESR on mortality and the sensitivity and specificity of the optimal cutoff values of ESR for the prediction of pneumonia, intensive care needs, and mortality and compared these with values for CRP. Results. Of patients, 346 (70.2%) had pneumonia, 98 (19.9%) required intensive care, 183 (37.1%) required oxygen support, and 62 (12.6%) died. ESR data were obtained for 278 patients. Among patients, 80.2% had ESR above 20 mm/h, with a median value of 53 (interquartile range: 49). ESR was higher among those with pneumonia (

p
<
0.001

), requiring oxygen (

p
<
0.001

), and requiring intensive care (

p
=
0.003

) compared to those without these, and in exitus patients (

p
=
0.043

) compared to survivors. Logistic regression analysis identified that ESR did not impact mortality. ROC analysis found the AUC, cutoff, sensitivity, and specificity results of ESR for pneumonia were 0.827, 37 mm/h, 77%, and 78%; for intensive care were 0.625, 50 mm/h, 74%, and 52; and for mortality were 0.606, 51 mm/h, 71%, and 49%, respectively. However, ROC analysis values for CRP were superior to ESR for all these categories. Conclusion. ESR increased in COVID-19 patients in the presence of pneumonia and severe disease; however, it was not prognostic. Sensitivity and specificity values for pneumonia, intensive care requirements, and mortality were lower than those for CRP.
Design of Quantitative Trading System Based on Data Mining Method under Software and High-Performance Computing
Authors: Feng Shizhou , Du Jing
Published: August 2022

The size of funds managed by all hedge funds in the world has exceeded 2.7 trillion US dollars. The funds of various funds and asset management products managed by quantitative investment account for about 30% of the total global trading volume, and in various large stock exchanges around the world, various quantitative investment methods contribute nearly 50% volume of transactions. The construction of a quantitative trading strategy requires first statistical analysis of the information in the securities and futures market and then backtesting the quantitative model with historical data. In view of the practical application of quantitative trading, this study designs a quantitative trading system based on the data mining method. The main development tool used is the numerical computing software MATLAB, and four cores are designed: quantitative stock selection, strategy backtesting, time-series analysis, and portfolio management. The system supports modules for simple trading decisions. It abandons the traditional method of predicting the absolute value of the future price of stock index futures and adopts a new method of predicting the future price trend of stock index futures. This method avoids the huge impact of the accuracy of the absolute value of the prediction on the final investment in the traditional method and also reduces the high dependence of investors on the accuracy of the absolute value. This study also introduces the support-vector machine algorithm in data mining and the quantitative trading system model in data mining. The accuracy of investment transactions in the experiment is also simulated by using the support-vector machine.
Influence of Comprehensive Nursing Intervention Combined with WeChat Platform Propaganda and Education of ERAS Concept on Postoperative Functional Recovery of Patients with Gallbladder Polyps
Authors: Zhang Yan , Guo Dongmei , Yang Xiaocui , Sun Xiaojing , Dong Yajuan , Zhang Jun , Gao Yujiao , Guo Zhanhua , Zhou Haikun , Li Quanfu
Published: August 2022

To analyze the effect of comprehensive nursing intervention based on ERAS’s concept in laparoscopic gallbladder polyp (GP) surgery on patients’ postoperative quality of life and nursing job satisfaction. Ninety patients with polyps were included in this article until October 2021. In this format, the 45 cases are divided into governing bodies and committees according to their processing time. As recommended by the ERAS committee, the committee provides daily and patient care, as well as training on the WeChat platform. The pain level (visual analogue scale (VAS) score), the quality of life (life quality index (GLQI) score), and the incidence of complications were compared between the two groups before and after the intervention. The VAS score of the control group at 2 h after operation was lower than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). After the intervention, the GLQI scores of the two groups were higher than those before the intervention, and the GLQI scores of the control group were higher than those of the control group, with significant differences (all

P
<
0.05

). Studies have shown that comprehensive nursing intervention applied to patients with gallbladder polyps can reduce postoperative pain with less complications and can also improve nursing satisfaction, which is worthy of clinical promotion.
Techno-Environmental Analysis of Facade Integrated Photovoltaics and Electric Vehicle Charging for University Building
Authors: Khan Sanjay , Sudhakar K. , Hazwan bin Yusof Mohd
Published: August 2022

Electric vehicles (EV) are a relatively contemporary and emerging technology in the transportation and power sectors, with several economic and environmental advantages. However, there are still challenges associated with EV charging depending on on-grid electricity. University buildings that consume a lot of energy continue to rely on the grid and/or conventional fuel for consumption. In addition, EV Charging will create more challenges in meeting the demand; therefore, utilizing university rooftops for EV charging has high prospects of meeting the additional energy demand. In Malaysia, no such research has been presented that has explored the possibility of using academic institute rooftops for BIPV installation for EV Charging in terms of energy and environmental standpoint. The current study analyzes and evaluates a rooftop grid-connected Building Integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system for generating electricity and EV charging at the University Malaysia Pahang, Malaysia, for EV charging. The system’s energy output has been simulated using the PVSyst in two scenarios, i.e., fully integrated with no ventilation and free mounted with air circulation. It was found that 7000 m2 of the selected building’s rooftop area could be used for panel installation. The panels’ total capacity was 1.069 MW, with total annual electricity production of 1587 MWh and 1669 MWh in respective scenarios. The proposed BIPV plant would reduce GHG emissions of 60,031 tons of CO2e in scenarios 1 and 61,191 tons of CO2 in scenario 2 compared to the emission produced by coal plants for the same amount of annual energy generation.
Land-Atmosphere Energy Exchange Characteristics in Ali of Tibetan
Authors: Wang Ge , Han Lin , Tang Xingying
Published: August 2022

Based on the comprehensive data from the land-atmosphere interaction observation station in Ali of Tibetan in 2019, the characteristics of land-atmosphere energy exchange processes in Ali were analyzed. The results indicated that the timing of the mean intraday net radiation peak in Ali over the past 20 years has been delayed, and the month when the maximum monthly mean net radiation occurred has been delayed by about 2 months; the maximum daily mean, maximum monthly mean, minimum monthly mean, and annual mean sensible heat were 99.63 w/m2, 76.53 w/m2, 17.47 w/m2, and 46.74 w/m2, respectively, and the maximum daily mean, maximum monthly mean, minimum monthly mean, and annual mean latent heat flux were 73.27 w/m2, 36.13 w/m2, 0.67 w/m2, and 8.32 w/m2, respectively; and the monthly mean sensible heat was greater than the latent heat in all months.
Investigating the Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Licorice Root to Prevent Ovariectomy‐Mediated Complications
Authors: Tanideh Nader , Zareian Zahra , Hosseinpour Reza , Tanideh Romina , Koohpeyma Farhad , Koohi-Hosseinabadi Omid , Shekarkhar Golsa , Irajie Cambyz , Taghi Maryam Mojahed , Barhaghtalab Mohammad Javad Yavari , Iraji Aida
Published: August 2022

Introduction. The importance of women’s health and the quality of life after menopause is a critical issue. To prevent disability and menopause complications as well as avoid the side effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), in this study, licorice hydroalcoholic extract (Glycyrrhiza uralensis roots) was evaluated as a natural remedy. Methods. Seventy‐two female Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into six groups: control group, Sham‐operated group, Glycyrrhiza (Gly) 30% group, and ovariectomized group as well as two ovariectomized groups treated with Gly 10% and Gly 30%. Normal saline and different treatments were administered orally for 8 weeks. At the end of the study, calcium, alkaline phosphatase, estrogen, and progesterone levels in the ovariectomized rats were determined. Moreover, the stereological and histopathological changes in uterine tissue in all groups were determined. Phytochemical analyses were also performed to determine the total phenolic content and antioxidant potential of the extract. Result. The hydroalcoholic extract of licorice root exhibited considerable effect to improve calcium, estrogen, and progesterone levels in the ovariectomized rats. Also, hydroalcoholic extract of licorice root successfully decreases the amount of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level. The stereological and histopathological findings confirmed the therapeutic potential of this extract. The considerable effects of hydroalcoholic extract of licorice root could be due to high amounts of phytoestrogens with similar estrogen‐like structures. Considerable total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were also seen in licorice root extract. Conclusion. Hydroalcoholic extract of licorice root due to containing high amounts of phytoestrogens with similar chemical structures to estradiol notably improves biochemical parameters as well as stereological and histopathological markers of uterine tissues in ovariectomy rats, so it could be a potential agent for prevention and/or treatment as hormone replacement therapy in healthy middle‐aged and/or older women.
Prevalence, Phytochemical Investigation, and In Vitro Acaricidal Efficacy Evaluation of Dodonaea angustifolia, Eucalyptus globulus, Millettia ferruginea, and Euphorbia abyssinica against Sarcoptic Mange of Camel, Babile District, Ethiopia
Authors: Alemu Sisay , Bayu Yehualashet , Wasihun Pawlos , Abdurahman Abdallahi
Published: August 2022

The present study was designed to determine the prevalence of sarcoptic mange from camels; evaluate the presence of secondary metabolites in the methanolic leaf extracts of D. angustifolia M. ferruginea, E. abyssinica, and E. globulus essential oil; and also evaluate their in vitro acaricidal efficacy against camel sarcoptic mange in the Babile District, Ethiopia. Each plant was subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening for the presence or absence of secondary metabolites. The in vitro application of each plant extracts was carried out against clinical mange mites with positive and negative controls. Accordingly, a total of 384 camels were examined for the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei var. cameli. The study revealed that an overall prevalence of 67(15.9%) animals was infested by mange mites. The study showed that a higher prevalence was observed in female camel than in male camel with no statistically significant difference (

P
>
0.05

). However, statistically higher prevalence (

P
<
0.05

) was recorded in young camel (28.2%) than adult (10.95%). The study also revealed that statistically higher prevalence (

P
<
0.05

) was observed in poor body conditioned camel (26.3%) than medium (13.5%) and good body condition camels (5.4%). For the in vitro evaluation of the efficacy of plant extracts, essential oils and crude extracts of four medicinal plant extracts were diluted at different concentrations from 200 mg/mL to 6.25 mg/mL and added to Petri dishes containing the adult stage of Sarcoptes scabiei. The efficacy of each plant was determined by comparing the mortality of mites treated with plant extracts with those of mites in nontreated (2% Tween 80) and treated (diazinon) control plates. After 3 h of contact, all concentrations of E. globulus, D. angustifolia, M. ferruginea, and E. abyssinica showed good in vitro acaricidal efficacy compared to controls nontreated control (

P
<
0.05

). After 3 h of exposure to the methanolic extract of D. angustifolia and the essential oil of E. globulus, comparable acaricidal efficacy in causing mites mortality at concentrations of 200 mg/mL has been recorded when compared to reference drugs. The crude extract of E. abyssinica showed a lower acaricidal efficacy compared to reference drugs. The present plant extracts studied showed comparable acaricidal efficacy to reference drugs at concentrations of 200 mg/mL. Therefore, further epidemiological and in vivo acaricidal studies as well as toxicity of the plants should be conducted in area to use these plants as alternative treatment option to substitute the use of synthetic drugs for which most of mites developed resistance and control impacts Sarcoptes scabiei on camel.
Asymmetric Exchange Rate Pass‐Through to Consumer Prices in Ghana: Evidence from EMD‐NARDL Approach
Authors: Obeng Camara K. , Frimpong Siaw , Amoako Gilbert K. , Agyei Samuel K. , Asafo-Adjei Emmanuel , Adam Anokye M.
Published: August 2022

This paper analyses the US dollar exchange rate pass‐through to consumer prices in Ghana from January 1990 to January 2020 using the empirical mode decomposition‐based nonlinear autoregressive distributed lags model (EMD‐NARDL). This model eliminates the noise component of the underlying data and captures the short‐ and long‐run nonlinearities. We find evidence of cointegration between denoised series of consumer prices and exchange rate and asymmetric pass‐through in both the short‐ and long‐run. Specifically, exchange rate pass‐through was found to be in the long‐run incomplete in the period of depreciation and statistically zero pass‐through in the period of appreciation. In the short‐run, the exchange rate pass‐through in periods of depreciation is near complete; that is, 81% against 74% in periods of appreciation. We recommend that monetary authorities consistently monitor exchange rate behaviour and maintain efficient exchange rate management policies to ensure stable consumer prices. This could be achieved through proper and timely policy interventions using the available monetary policy tools such as foreign exchange reserves.
Analysis of Extent of Deformation Range and Failure Characteristics of Rocks Surrounding a Tunnel Crossing Fault Zone Based on FDEM
Authors: Xiaoxiong Guo , Ning Wang , Xueliang Xu , Zihui Ye
Published: August 2022

The combined finite‐discrete element method (FDEM) and laboratory test were selected to study the extent of deformation range and time‐dependent deformation of surrounding rock during tunnel excavation without support in a fault‐crossing tunnel project. FDEM was found to accurately reflect the deformation and failure characteristics of different surrounding rocks during stress release, including conjugate shear and extrusion. Analysis of the results showed that the disturbance range of surrounding rocks could reach 1.5 to 2.5 times the tunnel diameter when crossing the fault zone. The rock surrounding the tunnel was found to incur significant conjugate shear deformation and extrusion deformation: conjugate shear deformation was identified as dominant in the deep rock mass, whereas extrusion deformation prevailed in the rock mass near the cave wall. The conjugate shear distribution was represented as a spiral line of deformation circling around the tunnel section, with an elliptical main deformation zone with its long axis parallel to the fault plane. Compared with the findings when crossing the intact rock mass, the deformation of the surrounding rocks when crossing the fault zone was characterized by rapid development, deep expansion area, and large deformation. The study conclusions were that supporting bolts and steel arches should be implemented timely when excavating fault zones and that both lithology and optimal construction timing were essential considerations in determining the length of the supporting bolts.
Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis following SARS-CoV-2 Virus: Remdesivir as a Suspected Culprit
Authors: Mohaghegh Fatemeh , Hatami Parvaneh , Aryanian Zeinab , Fatemi Farahnaz , Mohseni Afshar Zeinab
Published: August 2022

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is an exanthematous condition, predominantly occurring as a result of drug reactions. We, hereby, present the first case of AGEP following treatment with remdesivir in a patient with COVID-19, without hydroxychloroquine use, which serves as a reminder to consider remdesivir as a possible causative agent when dealing with AGEP presentation in COVID patients.
Randomized Control Study on Hemoperfusion Combined with Hemodialysis versus Standard Hemodialysis: Effects on Middle-Molecular-Weight Toxins and Uremic Pruritus
Authors: Zhao Delong , Wang Yuanda , Wang Yong , Jiang Aili , Cao Ning , He Yani , Wang Junxia , Guo Zhiyong , Liu Wenhu , Shi Wei , Hao Lirong , Li Jinyu , Li Wenge , Wang Caili , Wang Jianqin , Lin Hongli , Shi Wei , Wang Lihua , Jiang Hongli , Ding Guohua , Li Yun , Hu Wenbo , Yue Hua , Liu Jian , Yang Xiaoping , Yang Yibin , Liu Guohui , Li Hong , Xiao Yuefei , Wang Niansong , Jiang Gengru , Ma Guoying , Wang Jie , Li Ying , Li Rongshan , Li Qian , Sun Shiren , Jiao Jundong , Xi Chunsheng , Cai Guangyan , Sun Xuefeng , Chen Xiangmei
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Classic hemodialysis schedules present inadequate middle-molecular-weight toxin clearance due to limitations of membrane-based separation processes. Accumulation of uremic retention solutes may result in specific symptoms (e.g., pruritus) and may affect clinical outcome and patient’s quality of life. Hemoperfusion (HP) is a blood purification modality based on adsorption that can overcome such limitations, and thus, it may be interesting to test the efficacy of at least one session per week of HP combined with hemodialysis. This is a randomized, open-label trial, controlled, multicenter clinical study to investigate the effect of long-term HP combined with hemodialysis on middle-molecular-weight toxins and uremic pruritus in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods: 438 MHD patients from 37 HD centers in China with end-stage kidney disease (63.9% males, mean age 51 years) suffering from chronic intractable pruritus were enrolled in the study. Eligible patients were randomized into four groups: low-flux hemodialysis (LFHD), high-flux hemodialysis (HFHD), HP + LFHD, and HP + HFHD at a 1:1:1:1 ratio. Beta-2 microglobulin (β2M) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were measured at baseline, 3–6, and 12 months. At the same time points, the pruritus score was evaluated. The primary outcome was the reduction of β2M and PTH, while the secondary outcome was the reduction of the pruritus score. Results: In the two groups HP + LFHD and HP + HFHD, there was a significant decrease of β2M and PTH levels after 12 months compared to the control groups. No significant differences were noted between HP + LFHD and HP + HFHD. Pruritus score reduction was 63% in the HP + LFHD group and 51% in the HP + HFHD group, respectively. Conclusion: The long-term HP + HD can reduce β2M and PTH levels and improve pruritus in MHD patients independently on the use of high- or low-flux dialyzers, showing that the results are linked to the effect of adsorption.
The Efficacy of Atelocollagen to Inhibit Fibrotic Proliferation in Tenon Tissue: In vitro Study
Authors: Shin Jonghoon , Hur Jin , Lee Ji Eun , Kang Yoon Jeong , Kim Soo Jin , Kim Sangyoon , Choi Hee-Young
Published: August 2022

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of atelocollagen in preventing the fibrotic change of human tenon tissue induced by transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1). Methods: Primary cultured human Tenon’s fibroblasts (HTFs) were incubated with TGFβ1 alone and with various concentrations of atelocollagen, respectively. Cell viability was measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). The mRNA levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin, fibronectin, zonular occludens scaffolding protein (ZO-1), cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analysis. Wound healing assay and collagen contraction assay were additionally evaluated for identifying the inhibitory effect of atelocollagen in HTFs. To elucidate the mechanism by which atelocollagen affects HTF proliferation, the phospho-extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (pERK)/total-extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (tERK), phospho-focal adhesion kinase (pFAK)/total-focal adhesion kinase (tFAK), and pSmad3/tSmad3 protein expression ratios were measured by Western blot. Results: The safety of atelocollagen in HTF was identified by CCK-8 analysis. The expression of α-SMA and vimentin in HTFs treated with 0.023% and 0.046% atelocollagen significantly decreased at both mRNA and protein levels, while that of ZO-1 in 0.046% atelocollagen increased compared with TGFβ1-treated cells. The protein expression of fibronectin, CCN2, and IL-6 in HTFs treated with 0.023% and 0.046% atelocollagen significantly decreased. The immunofluorescence microscopy of α-SMA and ZO-1 showed results similar to those of the Western blot. In the wound-scratch assays, cell migration was significantly attenuated in HTFs treated with 0.005% atelocollagen. Atelocollagen at 0.005, 0.011, and 0.023% significantly inhibited the gel contraction induced by TGFβ1 at both 24 h and 48 h. The increase in pERK/tERK and pSmad3/tSmad3 protein expression ratios in TGFβ1-treated HTFs significantly decreased after treatment with 0.023 and 0.046% atelocollagen. Conclusion: Since atelocollagen gel effectively suppresses the proliferation of HTFs in TGFβ1-induced transdifferentiation, it may be a potential therapeutic agent in glaucoma surgery.