bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupled CFD/CSD-Based Aeroelastic Analysis with Flowfield Measurements of Avian-Based Flexible Flapping Wings for MAV Applications
Authors:   The University of Maryland, Mayo David , Lankford James , Benedict Moble , Chopra Inderjit
Published: October 2024

Experiments were systematically executed in conjunction with a coupled CFD-CSD-based aeroelastic analysis for a MAV-scale flexible flapping-wing in forward flight. 2-D time-resolved particle image velocimetry (PIV) and force measurements were performed in a wind tunnel at a flow speed of 3 m/s. The flexible wing undergoes pure flapping kinematics held at a fixed wing-pitch angle at the root. Chordwise velocity fields were obtained at equally spaced spanwise sections along the wing (30% to 90% span) at two instants during the flap cycle (mid-downstroke and mid-upstroke) for the reference Reynolds numbers of 15,000. The flowfield measurements and averaged force measurements were used for the validation of the 3-D aeroelastic model. The objectives of the combined efforts were to understand the unsteady aerodynamic mechanisms and their relation to force production on a flexible wing undergoing an avian-type flapping motion. The coupled CFD-CSD analysis combined a compressible Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) solver (OVERTURNS) with a multi-body structural solver (MBDyn) to resolve the complex, highly vortical, three-dimensional flow on a flexible wing. The coupled CFDCSD predicted and experiment flowfields showed comparable results. A vorticity summation approach was used to calculate the circulation of the leading edge vortex (LEV) from the PIV measurements and the numerical simulations to further validate the CFD-CSD code. The time-averaged vertical and horizontal aerodynamic forces measured from the experiment using a miniature force balance were also used to validate the force predictions from the CFD-CSD model. Pertaining to the flow physics, the flapping motion induces large angles of attack along the wing span causing the outboard sections to stall during downstroke. During the upstroke, the outboard sections operate at very low or even negative angles of attack. The present study showed that the dynamic twisting produced by the flexible wing helped in decreasing the effective angle of attack during the downstroke and upstroke. This temporal and spanwise variation of wing pitch angle affected both lift and drag, and primarily helped the wing produce positive thrust during both upstroke and downstroke which is not possible with a rigid wing undergoing pure flap at a constant pitch angle. Both PIV and CFD-CSD studies showed that the LEV stayed attached for a longer duration of the flap cycle during downstroke for the flexible wing compared to the rigid wing, especially towards the outboard sections. Also, during the upstroke, the LEV strength for the flexible wing was significantly higher than that for the rigid wing.
Testing-Based Approach to Determining the Divergence Speed of Slung Loads
Authors:   Georgia Institute of Technology, Raghav Vrishank , Forbes Alexander , Pirau Sorin , Liberi Brandon , Komerath Narayanan
Published: October 2024

An approach is presented, to the long-term problem of certifying the safe limits for helicopter operations with slung loads of arbitrary geometry. Recent work showed that at least two combinations of roll and yaw oscillations would amplify in free flight without rotor wake swirl. The acquisition of detailed airload maps for arbitrary shapes, with sufficient resolution in attitude, became the primary aeromechanical obstacle to predicting divergence speed. The conventional approach is to use wind tunnel testing at a few sample conditions and computational predictions to fill in the detailed parameter space. However, the technique of swing tests and continuous-rotation (STCR) presented in this paper, opens the way to direct calculation of the divergence speeds for known configurations, and a large enough empirical knowledge base to predict divergence speeds for entirely new configurations. The STCR and example test cases are described. A low-inertia cylinder, a loaded flat plate, and a porous box are used as test cases. Assumptions of symmetry are removed, and uniformly high resolution is available through regions of high gradients, to generate closed-form periodic representations of air loads for simulation. Wind tunnel video and encoder information improve efficiency in finding likely modes of amplification, and to validate simulations.
Safe Path Planning with Localization Uncertainty for Urban Operation of VTOL UAV
Authors:   ONERA, Watanabe Yoko , Dessus Sylvain , Fabiani Patrick
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes a safe 3D path planner for an urban operation of VTOL-type UAV. One of the difficulties of navigating an UAV in an urban environment involves its degraded self-localization accuracy due to GPS signal occlusion. In order to keep UAV navigability in such a GPS-denied area, alternative navigation systems (mostly using visual sensing) have been proposed in many literatures. This paper suggests incorporating different means of self-localization and their position-dependent availabilities in path planning task. Localization uncertainty corridor is defined by a space swept by the localization error ellipsoid evolving along the planned path. The proposed path planner applies classical A*/Theta* algorithms and sampling-based RRT* algorithm to a 4-dimensional search space (3D Euclidean space + localization modes) to find a path which minimizes a volume of the uncertainty corridor. In addition, for each path segment, collision check between the uncertainty corridor and obstacles is performed to confirm UAV traversability. The proposed 3D safe path planner is firstly tested through simulations with obstacle configurations defined in the UAV obstacle field navigation benchmark. Then, some of the planned paths are executed by the ONERA ReSSAC UAV platform and resulting trajectories are evaluated with the benchmark metrics.
A Principled Approach to Enable Safe and High Performance Maneuvers for Autonomous Rotorcraft
Authors:   Carnegie Mellon University, Choudhury Sanjiban , Arora Sankalp , Scherer Sebastian , Althoff Daniel
Published: October 2024

Autonomous rotorcraft are required to operate in cluttered, unknown, and unstructured environments. Guaranteeing the safety of these systems is critical for their successful deployment. Current methodologies for evaluating or ensuring safety either do not guarantee safety or severely limit the performance of rotorcraft. To design a guaranteed safe rotorcraft, we have defined safety for an autonomous rotorcraft flying in unknown environments given sensory and dynamic constraints. We have developed an approach that ensures the vehicle's safety while pushing the limits of safe operation of the vehicle. Furthermore, the presented safety definition and the presented approach are independent of the vehicle and planning algorithm used on the rotorcraft. In this paper we present a real time algorithm to guarantee the safety of the rotorcraft through a diverse set of emergency maneuvers. We prove that the related trajectory set diversity problem is monotonic and sub-modular which enables us to develop an efficient, bounded sub-optimal trajectory set generation algorithm. We present safety results for the autonomous Unmanned Little Bird Helicopter flying at speeds of up to 56m/s in partially-known environments. Through months of flight testing the helicopter has been avoiding trees, performing autonomous landing, avoiding mountains while being guaranteed safe. We also present simulation results of the helicopter flying in the Grand Canyon, with no prior map of the environment.
Optimization of MQ-8 (Fire Scout) UAS Launch and Recovery Performance
Authors:   Wyle Laboratories Inc., Sehgal Ajay ,   Hoffman Engineering Corp, Ferrier Bernard ,   Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Ernst Robert
Published: October 2024

The MQ-8 (Fire Scout) unmanned air system (UAS) has been selected as the ship-based vertical takeoff and landing UAS. The baseline version of Fire Scout, MQ-8B, along with all its improved derivatives are required to undergo ship suitability assessments in the form of dynamic interface (DI) testing, also known as helicopter-ship qualification analysis, aboard the ship. DI testing evaluates all aspects of shipboard helicopter compatibility including the adequacy, effectiveness, and safety of shipboard aviation support facilities and/or procedures for all ship-based helicopter types. Air vehicle specific support facilities include devices used for air vehicle launch and recovery. This paper provides a discussion of the improvements associated with the MQ-8 (Fire Scout) system focusing on the launch and recovery process and equipment, driven by a need for launch and recovery systems requiring few or no people to operate; systems that require reduced time to execute launch and recovery or tempo on the deck; and provides improved system reliability whilst being simple to maintain. Analysis is made of various candidate launch and recovery system approaches on air vehicle responses, comparing the baseline MQ-8 system with its derivatives planned over the next generation. To facilitate the upcoming ship-suitability assessment, a parallel effort was initiated to determine the feasibility of applying simulators and plug-and-play module options in support of unmanned dynamic interface at-sea testing and experimentation. At-sea preliminary validation study results are discussed and compared with simulated scenarios. This computational method employs sufficient performance criteria and correlates well with forecasted quiescent windows of deck motion. Results are presented in relation to deck energy problems normally confronted by a helicopter during recovery in progressively difficult conditions.
Analysis of Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Aerodynamics by Using a Multi-Fidelity Approach
Authors:   University of Wyoming, Han Yi ,   Northwest University (China), Dan Yong , Sitaraman Jayanarayanan
Published: October 2024

This paper compares several methods for predicting the vertical axis wind turbine's aerodynamic performance, loading patterns as well as wake system behind the turbine. Three distinct aerodynamic prediction methodologies are implemented and compared with each other. One method is a low complexity analysis that improves the double-multiple streamtube model which is based on the traditional Blade Element Momentum theory. Another method is a medium complexity analysis which utilizes a potential flow model based on the calculation of the velocity field through the influence of the near wake system by applying the the three-dimensional panel method to the rotorł whole blade analysis. The last method is a high complexity analysis that utilizes the overset grid based full computational fluid dynamics method, in which each blade of the turbine will be modeled by using body conforming structured curvilinear meshes. Two different test cases are studied in order to highlight and characterize the prediction capabilities of all the approaches. The computational results of the aerodynamic loads acting on the rotor blades and whole turbine's power coefficient, which are obtained by three approaches, will be compared with the experimental data. Furthermore, the wind deficits generated by an isolated turbine are investigated by utilizing the subset of methodologies that allow for probing of flow field information such as velocity magnitude contours and wake trajectory behind the turbine. Finally, the advantage and disadvantage of each method are discussed so that the appropriate model can be applied to solve the desired engineering cases in more efficient ways.
Numerical Investigations of Upwind and Downwind NREL 5MW Reference Wind Turbines Using CFD and CSD
Authors:   The University of Toledo, Zhao Qiuying , Ickes Jacob , Sheng Chunhua , Afjeh Abdollah
Published: October 2024

The aerodynamic and structural behavior of four wind turbine configurations based off of the model NREL 5MW offshore horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) are examined using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Computational Structural Dynamics (CSD) models. The four configurations studied were three-bladed, upwind and downwind, and two-bladed upwind and downwind configurations. In the CFD analysis, effects of pure aerodynamic loads on the wind turbine are studied. Rotor performance, such as power, full or sectional torque and bending moments of rotor blades, tower aerodynamic loading, and wake impact behind the rotor are compared and investigated. These high fidelity airloads are used as input to the CSD code in order to compute the system response to the applied airloads. The current CFD and CSD analyses provide insight into performance and aeromechanical responses of the offshore horizontal axis wind turbines.
A case of isolated cutaneous myeloid sarcoma preceding acute myeloid leukemia and literature review
Authors: Mavridou Konstantina , Gavriil Sofia , Papoudou-Bai Alexandra , Gaitanis George , Piperidou Alexia , Bassukas Ioannis D.
Published: October 2024

Isolated Cutaneous Myeloid Sarcoma (icMS) and Aleukemic Leukemia Cutis (ALC) are cutaneous extramedullary manifestations of leukemia in which leukemic cells infiltrate the skin before they can be identified either in the peripheral blood or in the bone marrow. We report the case of a 67-year-old patient who presented with a rapidly developing cutaneous tumour and scaly, erythematous-squamous plaques. Isolated Cutaneous Myeloid Sarcoma was diagnosed which rapidly progressed to terminal-stage Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). To highlight the disease characteristics of the adult-onset icMS and ALC cases that preceded AML we additionally compiled the pertinent literature of case reports of these rare conditions. We identified n=15 previously published icMS/ALC cases with adequately detailed clinical data descriptions. We could confirm the medical experience that icMS/ALC patients have an overall worse prognosis. Moreover, we could identify FAB M5 AML subtype as a significant adverse prognosticator of these patients.
Irisin suppresses PDGF-BB-induced proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro by activating AMPK/mTOR-mediated autophagy
Authors: Qi Fenqiang , Deng Yuxin , Huang Wei , Cai Yanli , Hong Kelin , Xiang Shui
Published: October 2024

Restenosis is a pivotal factor that restricts the efficacy of coronary artery bypass grafting. Inhibition of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation can improve intimal hyperplasia and lumen stenosis. Irisin, a polypeptide secreted by muscle cells, has been demonstrated to have a protective role in various cardiovascular diseases. However, the effect and mechanism of irisin on VSMCs proliferation and phenotype switching remain unclear. Cell proliferation ability was assessed using the methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation. Cell cycle analysis was performed using flow cytometry, while expression levels of contractile and synthesis-related proteins were determined through RT-qPCR and Western blot. The VSMCs were infected with an adenovirus carrying GFP-LC3, and the proportion of cells showing positive expression was assessed. Additionally, the formation of autophagic lysosomes in cells was observed through transmission electron microscopy. In this study, we have demonstrated the inhibitory effects of irisin on the proliferation and phenotypic transition of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced VSMCs. More importantly, we have discovered that irisin can activate the AMP-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (AMPK/mTOR) signaling pathway to mediate autophagy in PDGF-BB-induced VSMCs. The inhibitory effect of irisin on PDGF-BB-induced VSMCs proliferation was significantly attenuated by the AMPK inhibitor, Compound C. Conversely the mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin further enhanced the inhibitory effect of irisin on PDGF-BB induced VSMCs proliferation. In conclusion, our findings suggest that irisin effectively suppresses the aberrant proliferation of VSMCs following PDGF-BB stimulation by modulating autophagy levels through the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.
The professional responsibility of doctors and psychiatrists in mental health protection
Authors: Fiori Angelo
Published: October 2024

The history of madness is neither the history of medicine nor that of psychiatry but, to some extent, a non-marginal part of the history of mankind and its societies as they have changed over time, albeit Vichiana-like, with recurring and permanent motifs.
JUDGMENT OF THE COURT OF CASSATION ON THE CONSTITUTIONALITY OF LAW NO. 164 OF 14 APRIL 1982 (RECTIFICATION OF SEX ATTRIBUTION)
Authors: Fiori Angelo
Published: October 2024

Not available.
Scientific-technological progress in the face of ethics
Authors: Sgreccia Elio
Published: October 2024

Various symptoms and facts lead one to think that the utopia of scientific and technological progress, conceived in a linear, autonomous and unhindered manner - scientific and technological progressivism - is going through its first critical moment, of revision, and the time has come for a confrontation, ‘the realm of facts’ with the ‘realm of values’, between the scientific organisation of means with the meaning and direction of ends.
Medical ethics and in vitro fertilisation
Authors: Leuzzi Lorenzo
Published: October 2024

Not available.
Upgrading fatigue
Authors: De Benedetto Francesco
Published: October 2024

There are two positions that are difficult to reconcile and compose when it comes to the problem of professional updating: on the one hand, there is the unavoidable need for doctors to consolidate and refine their cultural and technical preparation, acquiring at least the most substantial and most easily transferable part of the knowledge deriving from a progress that never ceases to amaze: on the other hand, the overbearing and wearisome fatigue of a hard daily work commitment makes its harassing presence felt, which does not allow for any breaks and which does not allow room not only for study but also for the same family relationships or for some marginal Iudic activity.
Children in the face of death
Authors: Auterio Antonio
Published: October 2024

The expropriation of death in contemporary Western civilisation has mainly affected children. Through the skirmishes of adults, they have been kept away from the subject and the reality of dying, often out of concern not to disturb the horizon of joy of their childish condition and often also to avoid the resonant blows that can be thrown back from children to adults.
Evaluation of Collagen Morphology and Eosinophils in Different Grades of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Hematoxylin and Eosin and Congo Red Stains – A Pilot Study
Authors: Carolin V. , Dinakar J. , Lal M. S. Jaish , Gomakumar K. U. , Reena N. Sahaya
Published: October 2024

Background:

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) exhibits dysplastic features in the epithelium and connective tissue which constitute tumor microenvironment. Eosinophils are granulocytic cells which impart inflammatory response and cell death, thereby producing a great role in the regulation and progression of tumors. The morphology of collagen fibers also varies on the progression of oral cancer.

Aims:

The present study aims at evaluating collagen morphology and amount of eosinophil in different grades of OSCC using hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) and Congo red stains.

Settings and Design:

The present study includes histopathologically proven cases of 15 OSCC subclassified into five cases per each group.

Subjects and Methods:

Both H and E and Congo red staining were done for five cases per grades of OSCC and viewed by two observers in zigzag pattern.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA test and interobserver variability by kappa statistics.

Results:

P < 0.001 was obtained based on the ANOVA test and P value of eosinophils among different grades was statistically significant.

Conclusions:

The present study concludes that stroma will change from dense to loose and increase in number of eosinophils as carcinoma progresses.
Tobacco-free Generation: A Review for Tobacco Endgame
Authors: Gurung Deepak , Bhardwaj Vinay Kumar , Fotedar Shailee
Published: October 2024

The early initiation of tobacco use by the youth is the basis to advocate for the tobacco-free generation (TFG). The basis is to prevent the sale and supply of tobacco to individuals born after a certain year or after a specified year. This cohort approach on educating the generations to be tobacco-free was first conceived by an Australian Mathematician Jon Berrick. This is based on the concept of rite of passage that connects smoking to adulthood and encourages youth approaching that age of smoking. Education and awareness would certainly empower the younger generation to never ever use tobacco. The TFG models have been replicated in Singapore within the set time-bound goals. An integrated and common risk approach with effective compliance and enforcement remains the single best approach in prevention, so is the concept of TFG which also works well with other tobacco control measures through its optimal integration. With this background, we aim to review the concept of TFG toward the endgame of tobacco among the youth to eliminate this existing epidemic. Furthermore, it hopes to provide a deeper understanding about the best practices in the implementation, enforcement, and various challenges associated with compliance of this proposal in various regions of the world toward the endgame.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice about Diabetes Mellitus and Its Implication on Oral Health among Diabetic Patients in Chengalpattu – A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Saranya S. Saai , Ravi Karthikayan , Subraman Vishnu Prasad , Indrapriyadharshini K , Jagadeson Mahesh
Published: October 2024

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is considered to be a global epidemic. Currently india is considered to be the diabetic capital of the world. Despite the growing awareness of risk factors of diabetes mellitus and it’s management, only few are aware of the oral health implications of diabetes mellitus.

Aims and Objective:

With this background the study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice about diabetes mellitus and its implication on oral health among diabetic patients.

Materials and Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 participants, who met the inclusion criteria, visiting the outpatient department of karpaga vinayaga institute of medical science. A self-administered was distributed among the participants. The questionnaire consisted of 19 closed questions which were divided into 3 domains: The first domain is knowledge of risk factors includes 5 questions; the second domain is attitude of diabetes mellitus patients includes 5 questions; the third domain is oral health related knowledge included 9 questions. Statistical analysis was performed using spss. Chi-square test was used to compare association between males and females in P value of <0.05 was considered to be significant.

Results:

The results displayed that the participants had adequate knowledge about risk factors of diabetes mellitus and they also showed positive attitudes towards the management of diabetes mellitus. However, their knowledge regarding oral health complications of diabetes mellitus was not so high.

Conclusion:

These results necessitate the implementation of various oral health and public health programs to increase people’s knowledge and awareness of diabetes-related oral health conditions.
Assessment of Dental Arch Symmetry Measurements on Conventional and Digital Study Model: A Validity, Reliability, and Reproducibility Study
Authors: Sharma Disha , Gurung Deepak
Published: October 2024

Aim:

This study aims to assess the validity, reliability, and reproducibility of dental arch symmetry measurements between conventional study models and digital study models.

Materials and Methods:

The study sample comprised 50 pretreatment diagnostic conventional study models. The symmetry of the dental arch is evaluated by using the perpendicular distance from the tips of the canine and the first molar distobuccal cusps to the dental arch center line. This line is drawn from the midpoint of the right and left incisor edges to perpendicularly intersect the line connected by the tips of the right and left second molar distobuccal cusps. The distances from the midpoint of the right and left incisor edges to the tips of the right and left second molar distobuccal cusps to evaluate the symmetry of the dental arch were also measured.

Results:

These results revealed that in measurement on conventional study models in the upper arch, the mean value of dental arch form at maxillary right second molar was 26.55, and dental arch form at maxillary left second molar was 26.53. Measurement on three-dimensional (3D) models in the upper arch, the mean value of dental arch form at the maxillary right second molar was 26.50, and dental arch form at the maxillary left second molar was 26.50. Measurement on plaster models in the lower arch the mean value of dental arch form at the mandibular right second molar was 24.48 and dental arch form at the mandibular left second molar was 24.42. Measurement on 3D models in lower arch the mean value of dental arch form at mandibular right second molar was 24.08 and dental arch form at mandibular left second molar was 24.08. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in arch symmetry measurements between the conventional study model and the 3D digital model.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that dental arch symmetry measurements of digital study models were as valid, reliable, and reproducible compared with conventional study models.
Medical Crisis Preparedness: A Survey among Dentists of Rajasthan
Authors: Anup N. , Sarma Shruti Madhuri , Jeph Vikas , Tambi Swasti , Deka Barsha Priya
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

There are circumstances and procedures in a dental office that can give rise to a medical emergency situation. The inability to manage medical emergency situations can cause serious life-threatening issues for the patient, and it can also land the dentist in legal issues. A basic understanding and preparedness about medical emergencies and timely management techniques can be life-saving.

Aim and Objectives:

To analyze the conception of medical emergency and basic life support (BLS) among dentists of Rajasthan, India.

Materials and Methods:

This is a web-based survey which is conducted using a questionnaire comprising 22 questions to collect the data pertaining to demographic details, understanding, and preparedness concerning medical emergencies and BLS. The questionnaire was distributed through Google form to 356 dentists who are registered under the Rajasthan Dental Council. The responses to the questionnaire so obtained were analyzed.

Results:

The results showed that 49.8% of the dentists have not attended any workshop on emergency training or management program in the last 5 years. Regarding awareness about emergency drugs and equipment, 15% of them answered that they do not have any emergency drugs or kits in their workplace.

Conclusion:

The study results highlight insufficient knowledge and preparedness in the surveyed dentist and the importance of including structured BLS training in the dental curriculum.
Investigating the long-term success rates of implant-supported prosthetic restorations in comparison to conventional fixed or removable prostheses
Authors: Nedumgottil Binoy Mathews , Sajina S
Published: October 2024

Background:

The choice of prosthetic restoration for missing teeth significantly impacts long-term outcomes and patient satisfaction. Implant-supported prostheses have gained popularity due to their potential advantages over conventional fixed and removable prostheses.

Objective:

This study aims to investigate the long-term success rates and patient satisfaction associated with implant-supported prosthetic restorations compared to conventional fixed and removable prostheses.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted with a sample of 45 patients, divided equally among three treatment groups: implant-supported prostheses, conventional fixed prostheses, and removable prostheses. Data were collected from patient records, clinical evaluations, and follow-up appointments. Key metrics included survival rates, complications, patient satisfaction (assessed using a standardized questionnaire), and functional outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, Chi-square tests, and analysis of variance.

Results:

Implant-supported prostheses demonstrated the highest survival rate (93.3%) compared to conventional fixed (80.0%) and removable prostheses (66.7%). Patient satisfaction scores for comfort, esthetics, and overall satisfaction were significantly higher for implant-supported prostheses (8.7 ± 1.2, 9.0 ± 1.0, 8.9 ± 1.1, respectively) than for conventional fixed (7.5 ± 1.5, 7.8 ± 1.4, 7.6 ± 1.3) and removable prostheses (6.8 ± 1.7, 6.5 ± 1.6, 6.7 ± 1.5).

Conclusion:

Implant-supported prostheses exhibit superior long-term survival rates and higher patient satisfaction compared to conventional fixed and removable prostheses. These findings support the use of implant-supported restorations as a preferred option for long-term dental prosthetics.
Off-Road Self-Propelled Work Machines Operator Enclosure Environment Part 3: Operator Enclosure Pressurization System and Ventilation System Test Procedures
Authors:   HFTC6, Operator Accommodation
Published: October 2024

SAE J3078/3 establishes a uniform test procedure for evaluating performance of operator enclosure pressurization and ventilation systems. This standard is applicable to off-road, self-propelled work machines, as defined in SAE J1116, and includes tractors and machinery for agriculture and forestry as defined in ASABE standard ANSI/ASAE S390.
ansurethral Removal of Vesical Fungal Bezoar Using Ho:YAG LASER—A Case Report
Authors: Hegde Padmaraj , Gunashekaran Vijay , Krishnakanth AVB , Shah Abhijit
Published: October 2024

Fungal bezoars are extremely rare in the urinary bladder, and there is limited literature regarding the modality of management. We  report a case, where the piecemeal removal of a vesical fungal bezoar was performed using Ho:YAG LASER. A 60-year-old man presented  with lower urinary tract symptoms and on evaluation was diagnosed with vesical calculus. On cystoscopy, a white-colored, smooth  contoured ball was identified in the bladder. The effective endourological modalities for the removal of fungal bezoar require mention in  the literature. This case report demonstrates the possibility and efficiency of Ho:YAG LASER in the endourological retrieval of fungal  bezoar in the bladder. The rarity of the diagnosis results in difficulty in prompt management.
Morphological and Morphometric Analysis of Carotid Canal Apertures in the Nigerian Population
Authors: Adetona Moses , Ajan Rotimi , Olowo Abiodun , Ofuadarho Christopher
Published: October 2024

Background: The external opening of the carotid canal (EOCC), the entry point of the internal carotid artery into the skull, varies across  populations. This study characterized the EOCC with the mastoid process (shortest distance from the EOCC to the tip of the mastoid  process [SDTCC]), the foramen magnum (shortest distance from the EOCC to the foramen magnum [SDFM]), and the midline of the skull  base (shortest distance from the EOCC to the midline of the base of the skull [SDMCC]) in the Nigerian population.
Materials and  Methods: Fifty skull base pictures were taken in the plumed position with a digital camera. Measurements were taken using Image J  software, and Euclidean distances were calculated. The shapes of the EOCC were noted. Paleontological Statistics (PAST 3.0) was used to  perform descriptive statistics. Paired ttest and Pearson correlation were used to compare bilateral values and the relationship between  the parameters, respectively.
Results: The length (right, 0.53 [standard deviation (SD)=2.5] mm; left, 10.99 [SD=2.84] mm) and width (right,  13.96 [SD=2.43] mm; left, 14.16 [SD=2.09] mm) of the EOCC were recorded. In contrast to the populations in South Africa, Serbia, and India, the length of the EOCC obtained from this study is shorter than the breadth. The length of SDFM (right, 41.04 mm; left, 44.13  mm), SDMCC (right, 58.4 mm; left, 57.97 mm), and SDTCC (right, 57.29 mm; left, 55.61 mm) was established among Nigerians.  
Conclusion: The Nigerian population showed EOCC of shorter length than the breadth compared to other populations, and the size of  the skull is independent of the foramina size. These dimensions may provide information for procedures that affect the skull base.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Bethesda Classification of Thyroid Nodules at a Kenyan Hospital: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Brazeal Aurelia , Wobenjo Adili , Macharia Chege , Otido Morgan , Kamau Rosemary , MacLeod Jana
Published: October 2024

Background: The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC) was developed to standardize the reporting of thyroid  nodule fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) results. The adoption of TBSRTC is based on the implied risk of malignancy per category,  but this has shown wide variation in different regions worldwide.
Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the diagnostic accuracy of  the Bethesda classification of thyroid nodules in a Kenyan hospital.
Methods: A retrospective longitudinal study examined FNAC and  histopathology data of thyroid gland nodules at a Kenyan hospital from 2010 to 2019; specimens from 347 patients were found. An  analysis was performed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Bethesda classification in detecting malignancy among these patients.
Results: The malignancy rate was 16.1%. The risk of malignancy as per the Bethesda category was as follows: non-diagnostic— 19.6%, benign—6%, atypia of undetermined significance—20%, follicular neoplasm—16.7%, suspicious for malignancy—80%, and  malignant—85.7%. The diagnostic properties of FNAC defining “malignant” and “suspicious for malignancy” categories as malignant  were as follows: sensitivity—64.7%, specificity—97.6%, and accuracy—92.7%.
Conclusion: The Bethesda classification had high diagnostic  accuracy, with the risk of malignancy consistent with the Bethesda findings. Classifying malignancy as “malignant” and “suspicious for  malignancy” yielded the most favorable diagnostic properties for FNAC.
Molecular identification of Mycobacterium bovis in patients with tuberculosis attending a tertiary care hospital in South India
Authors: Jamir Imola , Mariya Joseph Noyal , Kannambath Rachana , Kumar Pradeep
Published: October 2024

Background: Mycobacterium (M.) bovis is a member of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC). Clinical infection caused by M. bovis is indistinguishable from other MTBC and could pose a potential challenge for control of TB epidemic due to its zoonotic nature. Availability of reliable molecular diagnostic methods such as Genotype MTBC based on line probe assay (LPA) paves way for reliable differentiation of M. bovis from other MTBC.
Objective: To determine the proportion of Mycobacterium bovis among the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex isolates from patients with tuberculosis.
Methods: In our study, we analysed MGIT positive cultures and performed Line probe assay (LPA) for identification of MTBC isolates. Total of 206 patient samples were taken, 104 pulmonary and 102 from extrapulmonary sites.
Results: M.tuberculosis/ M.canettii was isolated in all pulmonary specimens (100%). Among 102 extrapulmonary samples, 99 % was identified as M.tuberculosis/ M.canettii, and 1 % as M. bovis BCG.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that zoonotic TB by M. bovis may not be as prevalent in India and hence may not constitute a significant risk to public health in India.
Keywords: TB; M. bovis; line probe assay.
Factors associated with acute kidney injury and outcomes in patients with malaria in a district hospital in Rwanda
Authors: Umuhire Larrisa , Dushimiyimana Violette , Nkuranyabahizi Michel , Ngendahayo Flavien , Claude Shyaka Jean , Ngerageze Innocent , Rajeswaran Lakshmi , Chironda Geldine
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) remains one of the complications of severe malaria. Evidence on associated factors and outcomes for patients with complicated malaria and AKI is limited in Rwanda.
Aim: To assess the factors associated with acute kidney injury and outcomes in patients with malaria in a district hospital in Rwanda.
Method: A retrospective study design was applied. A census sampling strategy was used to select 122 files of patients admitted as severe malaria patients in 2016- 2017. A developed clinical audit form was used to collect data from patients’ files. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data.
Results: Among the confirmed severe malaria files, 44% of participants were over 50 years and 52.5% were males. The majority, (91.5%) had community-based health insurance and 16.3% had acute kidney injury. The significant associated clinical factors were dehydration (p=.01), high-grade fever (p=.002), profuse sweating (p=.034), vomiting (p=.043), and diarrhea (p=.025). Of the 20 patients who developed AKI, 55% completely recovered, 15% died and 30% of cases were transferred to the highest facilities for hemodialysis.
Conclusion: The existence of AKI among severe malaria patients was evident with some recovering and others dying. There is a need for educating healthcare professionals, mostly at district hospitals about the diagnosis and management of AKI as a result of complicated malaria.
Keywords: Acute kidney injury; severe malaria; complications of malaria.
In-vitro scientific validation of anti-inflammatory activity of Punica granatum L. on Leukemia monocytic cell line
Authors: Dutta Sharmistha , Nishad Khushbu , Usha Talambedu , Ramesh Nijalingappa , Kumar Middha Sushil
Published: October 2024

Background: The induction of the inflammatory cascade results in the production of a number of inflammatory mediators, including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), nitric oxide (NO), and proinflammatory cytokines like TNF-, IL-, and IL-6. This study examined the cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory properties of a methanolic crude extract of Punica granatum L. peel (PPM) on monocytic leukaemia cell line (THP-1).
Materials and methods: The PPM along with Quercetin as reference was used to assess the cytotoxic effect on THP-1 cells and describe its effect on pro-inflammatory cytokines such as COX-2, TNF-α, IL-6 against cancer cell line by flow cytometry.
Results: The percentage of viable cells significantly decreased which correlates to non-toxicity whereas quercetin was found to be highly toxic, the IC50 could not be calculated because of drug precipitation. There was a significant decrease in the expressions of inflammatory cytokines upon pre-treatment of the cells with PPM prior to LPS stimulation.
Conclusion: Our findings indicate that no cytotoxicity was observed after the treatment of THP-1 cells with PPM (25-400 µg/ml), but at higher concentration (400µg/ml), the cell viability decreased to 84% and attenuated the expression level of inflammatory cytokines. The inhibitory effect of the extract on pro-inflammatory factors production may provide a theoretical source on upcoming treatment of inflammation.
Keywords: Punica granatum L; Monocytic leukaemia cell line; cytotoxicity; anti-inflammation.
Biological role of Semaphorin 6D in the proliferation, migration and invasion of gastric cancer
Authors: Zhou Huan , Chen Guang
Published: October 2024

Background: To analyse how Semaphorin 6D (SEMA6D) expression and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) signal pathways are activated and how they influence gastric cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion.
Methodology: SEMA6D expression was knocked down in human gastric cancer cells using RNA interference technology. In vitro assays were used to analyse how SEMA6D knockdown affects clone formation, migration, and invasion. ERK and PI3K/ AKT/mTOR signaling pathway related proteins were detected by immunoblotting.
Results: In the si-NC group, Sema6D protein levels were higher than those in the si-1 and si-2 groups after knockdown of Sema6D, while in the si-1 group, Sema6D protein levels were higher than those in the si-2 group (P<0.05). P-PI3K, ERK/p-ERK, AKT/p-AKT, and mTOR/p-mTOR levels in the si-NC group were significantly higher than those in the si-1 and si-2 groups after knockdown of Sema6D (P < 0.05). It was found that scratch healing rate of SGC-7901 cells in si-NC group was higher than that in si-1 and si-2 groups, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: SEMA6D expression level can affect the biological behavior of gastric cancer cells.
Keywords: Gastric cancer; extracellular signal-regulated kinase; semaphorin 6D; ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR; cell proliferation.
Burden of childhood diarrhea and cholera outbreaks in the Lake Tana Basin (Ethiopia): Review
Authors: Abera Bayeh
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Diarrhoea is one of the leading causes of childhood morbidity and mortality, while cholera outbreaks are a major public health emergency insub-Saharan African countries. This study was aimed at investigating the link between climate changes and cholera outbreaks, and the burden of childhood diarrhoea in the Lake Tana Basin (Ethiopia).
Methods: Research articles published in English were searched from Google scholar, PubMed, and Web of science and these were supplemented by a four-year secondary data of childhood diarrhoea and cholera outbreaks extracted from health management information system (HMIS) in 61 districts.
Results: The mean prevalence of diarrhoea per 1000 children was 420 (95% CI:311.7; 528.6). The prevalence of childhood diarrhoea showed spatial and temporal variation hereby 16.4% (10/61) districts exhibited high prevalence (>201/1000 children). The prevalence of diarrhoea was significantly higher in boys compared to girls (p = 0.001), while the incidence of cholera was significantly higher in females compared to males (p < 0.001). Heavy precipitation and El-Niño events were linked to the episodes of cholera outbreaks.
Conclusions: Health interventions should consider spatial and temporal variations of diarrhoea. The cholera outbreak preparedness needs to be aware during the events of climate changes in the hotspot areas.
Keywords: Cholera; diarrhoea; climate change; Lake Tana Basin; Ethiopia.
Association between stunting and fecal calprotectin levels in breastfed infants living in a rural area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a cross sectional study
Authors: Bwija Kasengi Joe , Maheshe Balemba Ghislain , Baguma Marius , Bwenge Malembaka Espoir , Mbusa Kambale Richard , Battisti Oreste , Bahwere Paluku , Bisimwa Balaluka Ghislain
Published: October 2024

Background: Stunting is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries as in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Many factors, such as environmental enteric dysfunction (EED), are incriminated in the pathogenesis of stunting. EED, characterized by intestinal inflammation, can be evaluated by a non-invasive marker, the fecal calprotectin (FC). The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of FC, to compare the FC of exclusively breastfed infants with that of mixed-fed infants, and to assess the association between the stunting and the FC in infants aged 4 to 7 months.
Methods: Socio-demographic, nutritional, and clinical data were collected in infants aged 4 to 7 months attending child welfare clinic activities from eight targeted rural health areas of South-Kivu province, eastern DRC. A single assay of calprotectin was performed in stool samples by Bühlmann Quantum Blue® Calprotectin Extended device.
Results: A total of 240 infants (median age: 6 months, interquartile range: 5-6 months) were enrolled in this study. Among them, 41 (17.1%) were stunted. The median FC was 87 µg/g of stool. Exclusive breastfed infants had significantly higher FC compared to mixed-fed infants (median FC: 108 µg/g versus 79 µg/g, p=0.031). In addition, stunted infants had higher FC levels (107 µg/g) compared to infants with normal length for age (82 µg/g) but without reaching the statistical significance level (p= 0.41).
Conclusion: This study shows higher FC levels in exclusively breastfed and in stunted infants living in rural areas of South Kivu. Further studies are needed to assess the prevalence of EED and its association with stunting in the DRC.
Keywords: Stunting; fecal calprotectin; infants; breastfeeding.
Canine pillar bone bearing traction method of skull external fixator combined with nickel-titanium memory alloy spring for unilateral cleft lip and palate with severe facial skeletal hypoplasia
Authors: Wang Xin
Published: October 2024

Background: For unilateral cleft lip and palate severe midfacial skeletal dysplasia, external skull fixator combined with nickel titanium memory alloy spring was used to treat canine pillar bone bearing traction.
Methodology: Patients (n = 200) with unilateral cleft lip and palate and severe midfacial skeletal hypoplasia who were treated in our hospital within three years were divided into control group (treated with trans suture traction osteogenesis) while the observation group was treated with skull external fixator combined with nickel titanium memory alloy spring supporting force traction of canine bone.
Results: After applying significantly different traction forces to the maxillary tissues on both sides of the patient, the patient was treated with appropriate traction correction, orthodontic treatment and moderate traction on the facial arch to effectively reduce the recurrence of the disease after surgery. Compared with the control group, the curative effect in all aspects was better and the asymmetry rate was lower.
Conclusion: Canine strut bone traction method of external skull fixation combined with nickel-titanium memory alloy spring was applied for severe facial skeletal dysplasia caused by unilateral cleft lip and palate. For this purpose, reasonable and scientific treatment methods were provided for early correction and treatment of the disease.
Keywords: External fixator of skull; nickel titanium memory alloy spring; bone bearing traction of canine pillar; unilateral cleft lip and palate; severe midfacial skeletal dysplasia; clinical research.
Study on the relationship between NF-kB pathway and skeletal muscle dopamine receptors in muscle-attenuated mice
Authors: Tian Hui , Wang Xinyu , Wu Shanshan , Yang Fengling , Han Yue
Published: October 2024

Background: To investigate the relationship between the NF-kB signaling pathway and muscle-attenuated skeletal muscle dopaminereceptor (DR) in mice.
Methodology: 40 specific pathogens free (SPF) C57BL/6 mice aged 6 to 7 months were randomly divided into a model group and control group by random number table method, with 20 mice in each group. Muscle-attenuated mice were established in model group, and the expression of NF-kB protein was detected by Western-blot, and the expressions of IL-β1, TNF-a, DRD1, and DRD2 were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Meanwhile, the muscle fiber cross-sectional area was determined.
Results: The relative expression of NF-kB protein, IL-,1 and TNF-a in model group were significantly higher than those in control group (P < 0.05). The levels of DRD1 and DRD2 in skeletal muscle in model group were significantly lower than those in control group (P < 0.05). The cross-sectional are the model group was significantly lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). The relative expression of NF-kB protein was negatively correlated with DRD1, DRD2 and muscle fiber cross-sectional area. DRD1 and DRD2 were positively correlated with muscle fiber cross-sectional area.
Conclusion: In muscle-atrophied mice, NF-kB protein, an indicator of the NF-kB signaling pathway, was negatively correlated with DR, and both had an important role in muscle atrophy.
Keywords: Nuclear factor kB signaling pathway; Muscle attenuation; Mice; Skeletal muscle; Dopamine receptor.