bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupled NEGF-PSO Method for Maximizing the Current Ratio of CNTFETs Based on Oxide Thickness Optimization
Authors: Raeini Amin Ghasemi Nejad , Kordrostami Zoheir , Hamedi Samaneh
Published: May 2021

Carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs) with optimized oxide thicknesses have been proposed. The optimum oxide thickness that provides the maximum current ratio (on/off ratio) has been calculated for each design. The effect of oxide thickness on the on/off ratio has been investigated by changing its value as the independent variable and calculating on state and off state currents. PSO algorithm has been used to find the exact optimum value of the oxide thickness with the objective of having a maximum current ratio that is one of the most important parameters in switching applications. The optimum insulator thickness is calculated for CNTFETs with different chiral vectors, insulator types, channel lengths and source/drain doping levels. For further study of the CNTFETs, performance parameters such as cutoff frequency and transconductance of the devices have also been calculated and studied. The results of the paper show that the CNTFET designers should select the oxide thickness very carefully not only based on reported values in other works. Each design requires its own optimum oxide thickness which provides the maximum on/off current ratio only for that design.
Case Characteristics, Clinical Data, And Outcomes of Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients In Qom Province, Iran: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Pourhoseingholi Mohamad Amin , Yousefi Hosein , Manesh Hassan Fatemi , Motahaver Nima Najafian , Heydari Zahra , Looha Mehdi Azizmohammad , Taraghikhah Nazanin , Yazdi Maryam , Salami Zahra , Moallemi Elmira , Adeli Seyed Hasan
Published: May 2021

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) dates back to December 2019 in China. Iran has been one of the most virus inflicted countries. The aim of this study was to report demographics, signs and symptoms, laboratory findings, therapeutic approaches, and outcomes. This observational cohort study was performed from 20th February 2020 to 20th July 2020. Patients’ information was recorded in their medical files. Multivariable analysis was performed to assess demographics, signs and symptoms, paraclinical data, treatments, outcomes of disease, and finding the risk factors of death subject to COVID-19. Of all 2468 participants, the mean age was 57.9±17.6 years and 56.8% of patients were male. The most significant comorbidities were seen among those who have Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus. 14.42% were admitted to ICU, and 17.2% died in hospital. The significant risk factors of death were ageing, male gender, HTN, CHF, CVA, CKD, increasing ESR, PT, WBC, liver function tests, and decreasing Oxygen saturation. Incontinent results in the case of COVID-19 outcomes and death-related risk factors attribute to marked differences in demographics and health care systems. The patients with hazardous risk factors must be detected urgently and monitored closely to save more lives.
DMWAS: Deep & Machine learning omics Wide Association Study & Feature set optimization by clustering & univariate association for Biomarkers discovery as tested on GTEx pilot dataset for death due to heart-attack
Authors: Singh Abhishek N
Published: May 2021

Univariate and multivariate methods for association of the genomic variations with the end-or-endo phenotype have been widely used for genome wide association studies. In addition to encoding the SNPs, we advocate usage of clustering as a novel method to encode the structural variations, SVs, in genomes, such as the deletions and insertions polymorphism (DIPs), Copy Number Variations (CNVs), translocation, inversion, etc., that can be used as an independent feature variable value for downstream computation by artificial intelligence methods to predict the endo-or-end phenotype. We introduce a clustering based encoding scheme for structural variations and omics based analysis. We conducted a complete all genomic variants association with the phenotype using deep learning and other machine learning techniques, though other methods such as genetic algorithm can also be applied. Applying this encoding of SVs and one-hot encoding of SNPs on GTEx V7 pilot DNA variation dataset, we were able to get high accuracy using various methods of DMWAS, and particularly found logistic regression to work the best for death due to heart-attack (MHHRTATT) phenotype. The genomic variants acting as feature sets were then arranged in descending order of power of impact on the disease or trait phenotype, which we call optimization and that also uses top univariate association into account. Variant Id P1_M_061510_3_402_P at chromosome 3 & position 192063195 was found to be most highly associated to MHHRTATT. We present here the top ten optimized genomic variant feature set for the MHHRTATT phenotypic cause of death.
Experimental And Numerical Studies of Shrinkage and Sink Marks On Injection Molded Polymer Gears
Authors: Solanki Bikram , Singh Hapreet , Sheorey Tanuja
Published: May 2021

Injection molding is an efficient and most economical process employed for the mass production of plastic gears and helps to reduce the processing time and cost required to produce the desired geometry. However, significant process and product qualification of plastic gears face the shrinkage and sink marks issues during cooling and after ejection. In present work, the best gate locations and flow resistance analysis along with a polypropylene (PP) were carried out using Autodesk Moldflow Insight 2019.05. The numerical and experimental study was conducted to evaluate the effect of packing pressure, packing time, and melt temperature on diametric shrinkage, mass, and sink marks of PP gear. The results show that by increasing packing pressure and packing time, the diametric shrinkage decreased but mass increased. However, as the melt temperature increased the diametric shrinkage also increased but the mass decreased. The minimum diametric shrinkage of 0.562% was found in numerical analysis and 1.619% found in an experimental analysis at the same injection molding process parameters. Mostly, the sink marks were observed in the gear surface between hub and dedendum circle.
Climate Change In The Argentinean Wheat Region: Temperature And Precipitation At Two Contrasting Sites
Authors: Basile Silvana Marisol Luján , Tognetti Jorge Alberto , Gandini Marcelo Luciano , Rogers William John
Published: May 2021

Global climate change is shifting temperature and precipitation regimes, which is modifying the environments that define wheat yield and quality. The current work characterises the changes that have occurred in the thermal and hydric environment in two contrasting sites of the wheat growing region of Argentina, allowing comparison between sites for these changes and for how the changes are accelerating. Temperature and precipitation variables were analysed by regression and trend testing (Mann Kendall), and future projections were made based upon significant relationships. The two sites compared were in the zones around the cities of Azul in the Province of Buenos Aires and Marcos Juárez in the Province of Córdoba, located approximately 500 km apart. The climate data analysed covered the period 1931–2014 for Azul and 1952–2014 for Marcos Juárez. At both sites, temperatures increased significantly in mean and extreme values over these periods, where the rate of change accelerated during the first years of the 21st century. The changes observed were in general more pronounced in Marcos Juárez than in Azul. Furthermore, in Marcos Juárez, mean precipitation increased from September to December and there was a higher frequency of extremes of precipitation greater than 100 mm in September and October during the early 21st century. Evidence was found for temperature rise and the occurrence of extreme temperature and precipitation events occurring differently between sites, as well as for its acceleration rate in the early 21st century. The projected future changes made implied that wheat yield is expected to suffer losses over the coming century.
Locating drainage tiles at a wetland restoration site within the Oak Openings region of Ohio, United States using UAV and land based geophysical techniques
Authors: Becker Anna M. , Becker Richard H. , Doro Kennedy O.
Published: May 2021

Drainage tiles were used to drain wetlands in the midwestern United States to convert them into farmlands. With decades of farm operations, utility maps showing tiles’ locations are now mostly innaccurate or simply do not exist. However, knowledge of the location of tile networks is needed to effectively restore these farmlands to their original wetlands conditions. With many fields spanning several hectares, efficiently locating drainage tiles at large farmfields can be problematic. Drainage tiles create variations in soil physical properties including moisture content, surface temperature and dielectric permeativity within and around the pipes which can be sensed by geophysical methods. Our study assesses the application of electromagnetic radiation via visible and thermal infrared imaging using an unmanned aerial vehicle and ground penetrating radar (GPR) to locate drainage tiles at large farmfield scale. The study was conducted at the Sandhill Crane wetland, a 1.1 km2 old agricultural field located in Swanton, Ohio. A UAV equiped with visible and thermal infrared cameras acquired imagery on a regular grid and about 100 GPR lines were measured using a 250 MHz radar system. Both visible and thermal infrared images identified the drainage tiles and their orientations. GPR profiles reveal the drainage tiles mostly in a parallel East-West direction. By using a UTV to pull the GPR system, we efficiently collected data along long profiles covering the entire site. The delineated tile network will improve management of the anthropogenically altered hydrology at the site as it is being restored into its original wetland conditions.
Distributed Energy-Efficient and Secure Offloading in Air-to-Ground MEC Networks
Authors: Liu Wanning , Xu Yitao , Wu Ducheng , Wang Haichao , Zheng Xueqiang , Qi Nan , Chen Xueqiang
Published: May 2021

This paper mainly investigates the energy-efficient and secure offloading problem in air-to-ground MEC networks. The proposed efficient offloading mechanism is as per the requirements of the heterogeneous tasks of ground users. Further, the optimizing offloading rate, offloading object, and channel access jointly formulate system energy consumption and eavesdropping rate minimization. A distributed two-stage offloading scheme is proposed for achieving the sub-optimal solution for the Mixed-integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) problem. Finally, simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme is superior to several benchmark schemes.
Systems Capacity To Conduct Non-Communicable Disease Focused Implementation Research In The Malawian Health Sector: A National Needs Assessment
Authors: Banda Chimwemwe Kwanjo , Hosseinipour Mina C , Kumwenda Johnstone , Banda Ndaziona Peter Kwanjo , Lutala Prosper , Makwero Martha , Muula Admason Sinjani
Published: May 2021

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in Malawi and are the second leading cause of deaths in adults after HIV and AIDS. The purpose of this assessment was to identify human, infrastructural and systems requirements in implementation research to support the response to the NCD epidemic in the Malawian health sector.Methods: This national needs assessment was conducted using a concurrent triangulation mixed methods approach. Twenty-two health facilities providing tertiary (n =4), secondary (n =2) and primary (n = 16) care level were included in the assessment. Qualitative interviews with 72 participants from the health facilities, academic institutions, development partner organizations, Ministry of Health and the Central Medical Stores Trust from across the country were also conducted. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the quantitative data from the facility assessment and thematic content analysis was done to identify themes from the qualitative data. Results: The qualitative and quantitative findings were merged and categorized into five thematic areas. Theme 1: Record keeping and surveillance for NCDs – which showed a high incidence of hypertension and diabetes at the facilities. Theme 2: Availability of NCD services- 15 (68%) facilities had an NCD clinic available. NCD clinics were reported available at 75% of the tertiary facilities, 100% of secondary facilities and 63% of the primary facilities. Theme 3: Perceived needs for improving NCD care – where key informants highlighted the need for more human resources, drugs, guidelines and diagnostic technologies. Theme 4: Limited NCD focused implementation research engagement. This was due to lack of funding and limited number of researchers conducting NCD focused research. Theme 5: Opportunities for improving NCD focused implementation research. Opportunities were available through the growing interest and focus on NCDs by the government and development partners.Conclusion: NCDs are a significant health burden in the Malawian healthcare services. A general lack of human, systems and material resources in the healthcare system negatively affects extent of coverage of NCD services and implementation research activities necessary for improving care.
Candida Rugosa Lipase Immobilized on Hydrophobic Support Accurel MP 1000 in the Synthesis of Emollient Esters
Authors: de Menezes Luiz Henrique Sales , Santo Eliezer Luz do Espírito , Santos Marta Maria Oliveira dos , Tavares Iasnaia Maria de Carvalho , Mendes Adriano Aguiar , Franco Marcelo , de Oliveira Julieta Rangel
Published: May 2021

In the present work, Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) was immobilized by physical adsorption in organic medium on Accurel MP 1000 (AMP) with a protein load of 6.5 mg g-1 (mg protein/g support). CRL-AMP was applied with 5 and 10% of catalyst/volume of medium (m v-1) in esterification reactions of stearic acid with lauryl and cetyl alcohols producing the wax esters such as dodecanoyl octadecanoate 1 and hexadecanoyl octadecanoate 2 in a heptane medium. Six reaction cycles were studied to evaluate the stability and recyclability of the prepared biocatalyst. The specific activity (Asp) for CRL-AMP was 200 ± 20 U mg-1. Its catalytic activity was 1300 ± 100 U g-1. CRL-AMP was used in the synthesis of esters in heptane medium with a 1:1 acid:alcohol molar ratio at 45°C and 200 rpm. In synthesis 1, conversion was 62.5 ± 3.9% in 30 min at 10% m v-1 and 56.9 ± 2.8% in 54 min at 5% m v-1, while in synthesis 2, conversion was 79.0 ± 3.9% in 24 min at 10% m v-1, and 46.0 ± 2.4% in 54 min at 5% m v-1. Reuse tests after 6 consecutive cycles of reaction showed that the biocatalyst retained approximately 50% of its original activity for both reaction systems. CRL-AMP showed a high potential in the production of wax esters, since it started from low enzymatic load and high specific activities and conversions were obtained, in addition to allowing an increase in stability and recyclability of the prepared biocatalyst.
Bee Venom Allergy in Chinese Beekeepers and Patients Under Live Bee Apitherapy
Authors: Cui Le , Xu Ying-Yang , Li Li-Sha , Wang Zi-Xi , Bian Sai-Nan , Han Qiao-Ju , Li Wan-Yao , Li Yi , Lanier Bobby Quentin , Chang Christopher , Guan Kai
Published: May 2021

Background: Hymenoptera stings are one of the common causes of anaphylaxis. The prevalence of systemic allergic reactions seems to be higher in highly exposed populations such as beekeepers and individuals receiving live bee acupuncture (LBA). However, there are a very few of studies on venom allergy in these populations. We performed two observational studies to describe the characteristics and risk factors of venom allergy in beekeepers and the LBA population.Methods: A total of 99 beekeepers and 127 individuals receiving live bee acupuncture were interviewed. Skin prick tests were performed on subjects with suspected bee venom allergy.Results: The prevalence of bee venom allergy was 34.3% among beekeepers and 29.0% in the LBA population. Systemic reactions occurred in 11.3% of the LBA population, and 28.3% of beekeepers. For beekeepers with exposure to 2-4 stings per year and ≥5 stings per year, the risk for developing venom allergy increased to 6.745-fold (95% CI 2.139-21.266) and 42.297-fold (95% CI 7.060-253.399) respectively, compared to the ≤1 sting per year group. Conversely, in the LBA population, compared to frequency ≤2 LBA stings per week, the adjusted OR of venom allergy was 0.281 (95% CI 0.075-1.047) and 0.166 (95% CI 0.045-0.612) for frequency 3-6 LBA stings per week and ≥7 stings per week respectively. The knowledge of adrenaline and venom immunotherapy was limited in both beekeepers and traditional doctors.Conclusion: The frequency of stings with high risk for bee venom allergy was >4/year in beekeepers and <3/week in the LBA population. The education on anaphylaxis management should be strengthened.
Experimental Investigations on the Mechanical Properties, Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Cu-20Al-4Ni/SiC Composites Synthesized Using Powder Metallurgy
Authors: L Mamundi Azaath , U Natarajan , G Veerappan , M Ravichandran , S Marichamy
Published: May 2021

The present investigation pertains to synthesize aluminium bronze silicon carbide composite by powder metallurgy route. Three various weight percentages of silicon carbide (0, 2, 4 & 6) were reinforced with aluminium bronze matrix (Cu-20%Al-4%Ni) and the hydraulic press was used to prepare the green compact. This compact was heated at two different temperatures such as 6500C and 7500C using tubular furnace. The effect of silicon carbide on density, sinterability, compression test and hardness test was analyzed. The scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy were used to confirm the presence of alloying elements. The results showed that the sinterability and density were reduced with an increase in silicon carbide content. The composite reinforced with 6%SiC exhibited lowest compressive strength among other composites. The 4 wt.% SiC reinforced composites sintered at 7500C has highest corrosion resistance.
Characteristics of the Meconium Microbiota in Neonates with Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Tu Xinzhi , Duan Chun , Lin Bingying , Li Kangfeng , Gao Jie , Yan Huaying , Wang Kejian , Zhang Quanfu , Yao Jilong
Published: May 2021

Background

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a major cause of fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Since meconium microbiome is a critical component for the health of newborns, the aim of this study was to characterize the meconium microbiota in neonates with FGR compared with healthy controls.
Methods

To avoid bacteria contamination, all included neonates were delivered by elective C-section, with their samples collected in the operation room. We collected meconium samples from 14 neonates affected by FGR and 20 matched healthy newborns. The microbiome profiles were examined by using high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing and analyzed with customized bioinformatics pipelines.
Results

The β-diversity analysis demonstrated that FGR neonates clustered together that was distinct from control subjects. A number of taxa were found to be significantly depleted (e.g., Chryseobacterium) or enriched (e.g., Asticcacaulis) in the FGR group. In addition, the coordination network between various intestinal bacteria was found to be altered in FGR neonates.
Conclusions

FGR neonates exhibited alterations in the composition and symbiosis of microbiome, which will contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between the gut microbiota and FGR.
HVEM/BTLA Immune Checkpoint Expression in Development of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Azarafza Maryam , Tehrani Mohsen , Valadan Reza , Maleki Iradj , Hamedani Seyed Mohammad Mehdi Ghaffari , Ghanadan Alireza , Alizadeh-Navaei Reza , Ajami Abolghasem
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Regarding the role of B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator/Herpesvirus entry mediator (BTLA/HVEM) in tumorigenesis, this research was conducted to determine the HVEM/BTLA expression in development of gastric cancer.Methods: The statistical population of this study consisted of 114 patients, who were divided into 3 groups of non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD; n=32), intestinal metaplasia (IM; n=19), and gastric cancer (GC; n=63). BTLA and HVEM in gastric biopsies were evaluated using SYBR Green-based on real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. In this research, soluble HVEM (sHVEM) concentration and anti-Helicobacter pylori IgG antibody were assessed in sera of all study subjects. Results: Our result showed that in contrast to mRNA, HVEM protein expression was significantly higher in the GC group, compared to that in the NUD and IM groups (P<0.0001 and P=0.0002, respectively). It was found that BTLA mRNA expression was significantly higher in the GC group than in the IM and NUD groups (P=0.004 and P=0.0003, respectively). It was also significantly elevated in the advanced stages of GC (P=0.039). IHC results showed significant expression of BTLA in GC and IM groups, compared to the NUD group (P=0.0002, and P=0.008, respectively), and advanced stages than early stages of gastric cancer (p = 0.005). The sHVEM concentration was also higher in the GC group than in the NUD groups (P=0.001). Conclusions: High expression of BTLA/HVEM and sHVEM suggested that this inhibitory pathway is involved in immune regulation and progression of IM and GC. Therefore, these molecules can be used for the diagnosis and prognosis of GC.
Sanxicun Landslide: An Investigation of Progressive Failure of a Gentle Bedding Slope
Authors: Pei Xiangjun , Cui Shenghua , Zhu Ling , Wang Hui , Luo Luguang , Zhang Xiaochao
Published: May 2021

A gentle bedding slope (16° dip angle) failure at Sanxicun (SXC) village in Dujiangyan city was triggered by heavy rainfall in 2013. The landslide (composing of sandstone and mudstone strata) has a sliding distance of up to 1200 m and caused 166 deaths. After this failure event, a detailed field survey and a series of laboratory tests were carried out by us to investigate the progressive failure mechanism of the slope. The results revealed that the slope deformation could be traced back to the Ming Dynasty in China (400 years before) at least. A sliding block with a width of 330 m and a length of 240 m detached its original position, resulting in a depression belt with 10 m in width and 25 m in depth at the rear of the sliding block. On the scarp, a large number of cracks were widely observed not only in the sandstone but also in the mudstone. The field evidence revealed that the depression belt and cracked mudstone had provided convenience for water infiltration for a long time. The shake table test results showed that these cracks could be initiated and propagated in the slope during earthquakes. Especially, seismic stresses amplifications were induced in the mudstone to degrade this layer obviously. Besides, Direct shear tests of cracked mudstone with different immersion time were carried out. It was showed that the shear strength of mudstone decreased rapidly in the initial immersion and then tends to be stable gradually. Finally, numerical calculation indicated that the hydrostatic pressure in the depression belt and uplift pressure in the basal layer generated by the strongest rainwater in history (537.4 mm daily) caused the kilometer- slide of the block in 2013. We concluded that the catastrophic failure of the SXC landslide triggered by the rainwater in 2013 strongly depended on the pre- existing deformation and damage caused by historical earthquakes and rainwaters.
Exercise Training Volume and the Fitness-fatness Index in Adults With Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomised Trial
Authors: Ramos Joyce S. , Dalleck Lance C. , Fennell Mackenzie , Martini Alex D. , Welmans Talita R. , Stennett Rebecca , Keating Shelley E. , Fassett Robert G. , Coombes Jeff S.
Published: May 2021

Background Cardiorespiratory fitness and fatness (notably central obesity) are mediating factors of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), and consequent cardiovascular disease (CVD)/mortality risk. The fitness-fatness index (FFI) combines these factors and has been reported to be a better indicator of CVD and all-cause mortality risk, beyond the capacity of either fitness or fatness alone. Objective This study sought to investigate the effects of different exercise volumes on FFI in adults with MetS. Methods This was a sub-study of the ‘Exercise in the prevention of Metabolic Syndrome’ (EX-MET) multicenter trial. Ninety-nine adults diagnosed with MetS according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria were randomized to one of the following 16-week exercise interventions: i) moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) at 60-70% HRpeak for 30 min/session (n=34, 150 min/week); ii) 4 x 4 min bouts of high-intensity interval training at 85-95% HRpeak, interspersed with 3-min active recovery at 50-70% HRpeak (n=34, 38min/session, 114 mins/week); and iii) 1 x 4 min bout of HIIT at 85-95% HRpeak (n=31, 17 min/session, 51 min/week). Cardiorespiratory fitness (peak oxygen uptake, V̇O2peak) was determined via indirect calorimetry during maximal exercise testing and fatness was the ratio of waist circumference-to-height (WHtR). FFI was calculated as V̇O2peak in metabolic equivalents (METs) divided by WHtR. A clinically meaningful response to the exercise intervention was taken as a 1 FFI unit increase. Results Seventy-seven participants completed pre and post testing to determine FFI. There was a greater proportion of participants who had a clinically meaningful change in FFI following high-volume HIIT (60%, 15/25) and low-volume HIIT (65%, 17/26) compared to MICT (38%, 10/26), but with no significant between-group difference (p=0.12). A similar trend was found when a sub-analysis comparing the FFI between those with type 2 diabetes (MICT, 33%, 3/9; high-volume HIIT, 64%, 7/11; and low-volume HIIT, 58%, 7/12) and without type 2 diabetes (MICT, 41%, 7/17; high-volume HIIT, 57%, 8/14; low-volume HIIT, 71%, 10/14). Conclusion This study suggests that the response to changes in FFI in adults with MetS is affected by aerobic exercise intensity.
Liquid-phase catalytic growth of graphene
Authors: Tian Pin , Tang Libin , Xiang Jinzhong , Lau Shu Ping , Yuan Shouzhang , Yang Dengquan , Li Lain-Jong , Teng Kar
Published: May 2021

Ability to mass produce graphene at low cost is of paramount importance in bringing graphene based technologies into market. Here we report a facile liquid-phase catalytic growth of graphene suitable for mass production. Iodine tincture is used to catalyze graphene quantum dots to form graphene films at room temperature. Such method has many advantages, such as environment friendly, high yield, low cost and wide choice of substrates. Furthermore, bandgap of the graphene films is tunable by post-annealing. A photodetector based on the graphene films was developed and could response to a broad wavelength between 365 and 1200 nm. It exhibited detectivity and responsivity of up to 1.1x1013 cmHz1/2W-1 and 81.3 mAW-1 respectively. Hence, the graphene films demonstrated significant applications in the field of optoelectronics. Interestingly, surface of the graphene film prepared by this method has wrinkles that can also be explored for energy storage applications.
Designing and Conducting Initial Application of a Performance Assessment Model for in-Hospital Trauma Care
Authors: Mousazadeh Yalda , Sadeghi-Bazargani Homayoun , Janati Ali , Pouraghaei Mahboub , Rahmani Farzad , Sokhanvar Mobin
Published: May 2021

Background: Trauma is a major cause of death worldwide, especially in developing countries. The increasing cost of health care and the differences in the quality of provided services indicates the need to assess trauma care. This study aimed to develop and use a performance assessment model for in-hospital trauma care with a focus on traffic injures.Methods: This multi-method study was conducted in three main phases of indicators determination, model development, and model application. Trauma care performance indicators were extracted through literature review and were confirmed using a two-round Delphi survey and experts’ perspective. Two focus group discussions and 16 semi-structured interviews were held to design the initial model. In the next step, components and final form of the model were confirmed following pre-determined factors including importance and necessity, simplicity, clarity, and relevance. Finally, the model was tested by applying it in a trauma center. Results: A total of 50 trauma care indicators were approved after reviewing the literature and obtaining the experts' views. The final model consisted of six components of assessment level, teams, methods, scheduling, frequency, and data source. The model application revealed problems of a selected trauma center in terms of information recording, patient deposition, some clinical services, waiting time for depositing, recording of medical errors and complications, patient follow-up, and patient satisfaction.Conclusion: Performance assessment with an appropriate model can identify deficiencies and failures of provided services in trauma centers. Understanding the current situation is one of the main requirements for designing any quality improvement programs.
Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Ameliorates Dimethylnitrosamine Induced Renal Toxicity in Rat
Authors: Rani Varsha , Verma Yeshvandra , Rana Suresh V
Published: May 2021

Dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) is an established carcinogen. It is toxic to several organs viz. liver, kidney, lungs and immune system. Several drugs have been used in the past to modulate its toxicity using experimental models. Present study was designed to investigate the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) on renal toxicity caused by DMN in laboratory rat. Since oxidative mechanisms form etiological causing its toxicity, the proposed study focuses on amelioration of oxidative stress expressed by ZnONPs, if any. Present results show that administration of ZnONPs (50 mg/kg) to DMN (2μl/100g body weight) treated rats diminuted the concentration of malonaldehyde, H2O2 and NO in the kidney. However, GSH concentration increased after ZnONPs treatment. Results on glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase favored an antioxidative effect of ZnONPs. These results find support from diminished oxidative DNA damage manifested by ZnONPs in DMN treated rats. Histopathological results on kidney also indicate a protective effect of ZnONPs on renal toxicity of DMN. A comparison of results between control and ZnONPs treated rats suggests that ZnONPs might be toxic to renal tissue. Nevertheless, the study suggests that ZnONPs possess strong therapeutic/antioxidative potential against DMN induced renal toxicity.
Correlation of Brain Tumor-related Epilepsy With Clinicopathological Factors in Gliomas
Authors: Li Bo , Jiang Shunli , Zhang Guangning , Zhang Junchen
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Glioma patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE) have a complex profile due to the simultaneous presence of two pathologies: glioma and epilepsy. However, the underlying pathophysiology of BTRE remains poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlation between molecular neuropathology and glioma with BTRE.Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 186 glioma patients was evaluated at our hospital, with 64 presenting with BTRE. Chi-square test, spearman rank correlation and multivariate logistic analyses were used to identify clinicopathological factors associated with BTRE. Results: Of the 186 patients examined in this study, 64 (34.4 %) had BTRE. By analyzing the characteristics of these patients, the results showed that patient age (over 40 years; p=0.007), low WHO grade (grade I, II; p = 0.001), IDH-1 positive mutation (p=0.027), ATR-X low expression level (OR=0.44; 95% CI: 0.21, 0.92) and low Ki-67 proliferation index (OR=0.25; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.68) were associated with the occurrence of BTRE. BTRE did not differ by sex, tumor location, expression of olig-2 or CD34. The results of the matching study showed that low Ki-67 proliferation index and negative ATR-X expression level were independent factors for a higher incidence of preoperative seizures in glioma patients. Conclusion: The current study updates existing information on genetic markers in gliomas with BTRE and explores the correlation of a wide range of clinicopathological factors and glioma patients with BTRE. Our study suggests that three putative biomarkers for BTRE: positive IDH1 mutation, low Ki-67 proliferation index and negative ATR-X expression. These factors may provide insights for developing a more thorough understanding of the pathogenesis of epilepsy and effective treatment strategies aimed at seizure control.
Two-dimensional β-In 2 S 3 Nanosheets-MoS 2 Nanoflowers Heterostructures: A Novel Sunlight-induced Photocatalyst for Pollutant Removal in Water
Authors: Singh Jaspal , Soni R. K.
Published: May 2021

Visible light-sensitive photocatalytic systems have readily relied on metal oxide semiconductors' functionalization with plasmonic nanostructures to improve their activity. Here, we report a non-metal, visible light (sunlight) sensitive photocatalytic 2D-layered based nanohybrid system capable of efficient degradation of organic contaminants with huge efficiency. MoS2 nanoflowers decorated β-In2S3 nanosheets heterostructure hybrid has been prepared by using a facile hydrothermal method. 2D-layered-based semiconductor heterostructure (In2S3-MoS2) effectively improves the lifetime of the charge carriers by minimizing their rate of recombination, allowing enough time for surface reactions such as photocatalysis to take place. UV-DRS results reveal a significant improvement in the optical absorbance in the visible region. X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy results confirm the appearance of 2H-MoS2 and β-In2S3 in the grown heterostructures. Chemical mapping confirms uniform distribution of Mo, In, and S atoms in the heterostructure, affirming sample uniformity. Modified optical properties of In2S3-MoS2 heterostructure samples reveal efficient charge separation while incrementing the light absorption ability, indicative of its enhanced photocatalytic activity in solar light. The photocatalytic decomposition efficiency of the In2S3-MoS2 heterostructure is compared with pristine In2S3 nanosheets. For 8 minute exposure in sunlight, ca 97.67% degradation for methylene blue dye has been estimated for a sample load of 0.025 mg/ml. The improved photocatalytic degradation efficiency of the In2S3-MoS2 heterostructure is ascribed to its efficient charge separation mechanism.
Use of Corneal hysteresis and Corneal Resistance Factor in Target Intraocular Pressure Estimation in Patients with Early Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Sallam Moataz , Elghareib Mervat E.
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To introduce a new method for estimation of the target intraocular pressure (TIOP) in naïve eyes with early primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) using Corneal hysteresis (CH) and corneal resistance factor (CRF).Methods: A prospective quasi-experimental study was conducted on naïve 90 eyes of 45 patients who were newly diagnosed with early primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). They were compared to 72 eyes of 36 normal subjects. The TIOP was determined for each eye. The IOP Goldmann (IOPg), IOP corneal-compensated (IOPcc), CH and CRF were estimated by Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA, Reichert) device. Measurements were taken for each patient prior to treatment and after 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of receiving medications; either monotherapy or combination therapy.Results: For all patients, there was a significant negative correlation (p < 0.05) between IOP, either IOPg or IOPcc, and CH while a significant positive relationship (p < 0.05) existed between IOP and CRF. For patients with early POAG, The CH was significantly increased (p ≤ 0.001) while CRF was significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.001) when TIOP was achieved. At IOP levels higher than TIOP, CH value was lower than CRF with a significant negative correlation between them in contrast to controls. This correlation was reversed on reaching TIOP and CH values became higher than CRF similar to controls.Conclusion: CH, CRF and IOP measured by ORA can be used for TIOP estimation. This provides us with a guide for assessing the effectiveness of medications introduced to patients with POAG.
Outcome of intracerebral cavernoma treated by Gamma Knife radiosurgery based on a double-blind assessment of treatment indication
Authors: Shen Chiung-Chyi , Sun Ming-Hsi , Yang Men-Yin , You Weir Chiang , Sheu Meei-Ling , Chen Yen–Ju , Chen Ying-Ju , Sheehan Jason , Pan Hung-Chuan
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The benefit and risk profile of Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for intracerebral cavernoma remains undefined due to the low incidence of bleeding and spontaneous regression of cavernoma. We retrieved cases from a prospectively collected database to assess the outcome of intracerebral cavernoma treated with GKRS using a double blinded review process for treatment.
Methods

From 2003 to 2018, 94 cases of cavernoma were treated by GKRS with margin dose of 11–12 Gy. The treatment indications were doubly blinded assessed by two experienced neurosurgeon and afterward assessed for neurological outcome, radiologic response, and quality of life.
Results

Seven of 16(43.7%) achieved seizure freedom and 9 of 16 (56.3%) achieved decreased seizures. Rebleeding occurred in 2 cases (2.1%) at 13 and 52 months post GKRS. The nidus volume demonstrated the decrease in 20 (21.3%) cases, 69(73.4%) stable and 5 (7.3%) increase. Eight-seven of 94 (92.5%) cases achieve improvement in their quality of life. The effective seizure control was correlated with patients harboring a single lesion (p < 0.05) and deep seated location of the cavernoma (p < 0.01). New neurological deficits were correlated with decreased mental (p < 0.001) and physical (p < 0.05) components of quality of life testing, KPS (p < 0.001), deep seated location (p < 0.01), and increased nidus volume (p < 0.05). Quality of life deterioration either in physical component (p < 0.01), mental component (p < 0.01), and KPS (p < 0.05) was correlated with increased cavernoma volume.
Conclusion

Low margin dose GKRS for intracerebral cavernoma offers reasonable seizure control and improved quality of life with a low risk of treatment complications.
Safety and Efficacy of Vedolizumab in a Patient With Crohn's Disease After Developing An Active Tuberculosis Infection Associated With Infliximab-Biosimilar: A Case Report
Authors: Sugiyama Yuya , Ueno Nobuhiro , Tachibana Shion , Kobayashi Yu , Murakami Yuki , Sasaki Takahiro , Kunogi Takehito , Takahashi Keitaro , Ando Katsuyoshi , Kashima Shin , Moriichi Kentaro , Tanabe Hiroki , Okumura Toshikatsu , Fujiya Mikihiro
Published: May 2021

Background: Screening of latent tuberculosis (TB) before the induction of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents is very important to prevent the reactivation of TB. However, active TB can still occur, and the ideal therapeutic strategy for IBD patients who develop active TB has not been established. Case presentation: A 21-year-old Vietnamese man with active ileo-colonic Crohn’s disease visited our hospital. While computed tomography (CT) revealed a nodular lesion at the right lung, a serological interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) and several culture tests were all negative. The intravenous administration of infliximab-biosimilar (IFX-BS) with an immunomodulator were initiated. After the induction therapy, he achieved clinical remission. However, he presented with a high fever 17 weeks after the initiation. CT revealed the expansion of the nodular lesion at the right lung, and serological IGRA was positive. He was diagnosed with reactivation of latent TB. He had not achieved mucosal healing when immunosuppressive therapy was discontinued. Thus, he was administered vedolizumab (VDZ), which was considered not to influence the TB status, as maintenance therapy. Consequently, he achieved mucosal healing without relapse of active TB.Conclusions: This is the first report to describe the safe usage of VDZ as maintenance therapy without the induction of TB relapse in a CD patient. In Asian countries, clinicians must be alert for the reactivation of latent TB during the administration of anti-TNF agents. VDZ might be a safe option for maintenance therapy in CD patients, even in cases with active TB.
METHODIC APPROACH TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SYSTEM OF STRATEGIC CHOICE OF THE COMPANY
Authors: Zhukova D.
Published: May 2021

Theoretical approaches to defining the concept of financial inclusion are considered. It is determined that financial inclusion and the public and business confidence in the financial and credit system are driving factors for directing savings into the investment sector, reducing the level of shadow economy, increasing the financial stability of economic entities, and, as a consequence, increasing the level of government revenues and financial security ensuring. Theoretical and methodological foundations of financial inclusion spreading as a driver of financial security of Ukraine are investigated.
Becslés a döntéshozatalban
Authors: Székely Csaba , Keresztes Gábor , Szalay László
Published: May 2021

A döntési problémák összetettsége, a befolyásoló tényezők nagy száma, és a rendelkezésre álló szűkös időkeret miatt nincs arra lehetőség, hogy a döntéseket mindig kielégítő informáltság mellett hozzuk meg. Ezért van szükség a különböző események bekövetkezési valószínűségének, és a döntések lehetséges következményeinek becslésére, előrejelzésére. Különböző becslési eljárásokat régóta alkalmaznak a döntéshozatalban, de viszonylag kevés kutatás foglalkozik az általános értelemben vett becslés pontosságának kérdéskörével, az ezt elősegítő tényezőkkel. Tanulmányunkban egy konkrét eset, az üzemanyag­ár-változás rövidtávú előrejelzése példáján kívánunk két ezzel kapcsolatos kérdést megválaszolni. Egyrészről azt kívánjuk bizonyítani, hogy a szóban forgó területen szerzett nagyobb tapasztalat elősegíti a használhatóbb becslést, másrészt ki szeretnénk mutatni a többlet információ (a tanulás) becslési pontosságra gyakorolt hatását is. A kutatás adatbázisát 200 fő körében két alkalommal elvégzett kérdőíves felmérés eredményezte.
Kreativität in der Textilindustrie
Authors: Paulovics Ágnes
Published: May 2021

Nyfeler, J. (2019). Die Fabrikation von Kreativität. Bielefeld, Deutschland: transcript Verlag. ISBN 978-3-8376-4992-5
Anti-mycobacterial Constituents from Medicinal Plants; A Review
Authors: Sarkar Nandan , Dey Yadu Nandan , Kumar Dharmendra , Rajagopal Mogana
Published: May 2021

:

Effective treatment of tuberculosis has been hampered by the emergence of drug-resistant
strains of Mycobacterium therapeutic facilities tuberculosis. With the global resurgence of tuberculosis
with the development of multidrug-resistant cases, there is a call for the development of new drugs
to combat these diseases. Throughout history, natural products have afforded a rich source of compounds
that have found many applications in the fields of medicine, pharmacy and biology, and continued
to play a significant role in the drug discovery and development process. This review article
depicts the various potential plant extracts as well as plant derived phytoconstituents against the
H37rv, the most persistent strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and its multidrug strains.
New Insights Toward Nanostructured Drug Delivery of Plant-Derived Polyphenol Compounds: Cancer Treatment and Gene Expression Profiles
Authors: Khazei Keyvan , Mohajeri Nasrin , Bonabi Esat , Turk Zeynep , Zarghami Nosratollah
Published: May 2021

The increasing prevalence of cancer has led to expanding traditional medicine objectives
for developing novel drug delivery systems. A wide range of plant-derived polyphenol bioactive
substances have been investigated in order to explore the anti-cancer effects of these natural compounds
and to promote the effective treatment of cancer through apoptosis induction. In this regard,
plant-derived polyphenol compounds, including curcumin, silibinin, quercetin, and resveratrol,
have been the subject of intense interest for anti-cancer applications due to their ability to regulate
apoptotic genes. However, some limitations of pure polyphenol compounds, such as poor bioavailability,
short-term stability, low-cellular uptake, and insufficient solubility, have restricted their
efficiency. Nanoscale formulations of bioactive agents have provided a novel platform to address
these limitations. This paper reviews recent advances in nanoformulation approaches of polyphenolic
drugs and their effects on improving the delivery of chemotherapy agents to cancer cells.
Selenium as a Versatile Reagent in Organic Synthesis: More than Allylic Oxidation
Authors: Thurow Samuel , Abenante Laura , Anghinoni João Marcos , Lenardão Eder João
Published: May 2021

:

For many years since its discovery, Selenium has played the role of a bad boy who became a hero in organic transformations. Selenium dioxide, for instance, is one of the most remembered reagents in allylic oxida-tions, having been applied in the synthesis of several naturally occurring products. The main goal of this review is to show the recent advances in the use of classical and new selenium reagents in organic synthesis. As demon-strated through the around 60 references discussed here, selenium can go even forward as a versatile reagent. We bring a collection of selenium reagents and their transformations that still asleep in the eyes of most synthetic or-ganic chemists.
Epidermolysis Bullosa: Pediatric Perspectives
Authors: Hon Kam Lun , Chu Samantha , Leung Alexander K.C.
Published: May 2021

:

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of rare congenital genetic conditions that result in
painful blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, which occur with minor trauma or friction.
There are many types and subtypes of EB that need to be distinguished, as the management and
prognosis of each can vary significantly. We aim to perform an up-to-date literature review on congenital
EB for healthcare providers in pediatrics.
We performed a review of existing literature in the English language on EB via PubMed Clinical
Queries, using key words such as “epidermolysis bullosa”, “congenital” and “children”. We reviewed
EB based on the following subheadings: epidemiology, diagnosis, therapy, prognosis, and
clinical prediction guidelines.
EB is due to mutation in a number of genes, some types are autosomal dominant while others are
autosomal recessive. The underlying mechanism is a defect in attachment between or within the
epidermis and dermis of the skin. There are four main types: epidermolysis bullosa simplex, dystrophic
epidermolysis bullosa, junctional epidermolysis bullosa, and Kindler syndrome. The diagnosis
is suspected based on symptoms and confirmed by skin biopsy and definitive genetic testing.
The severity of EB can range from mild to fatal. Severe complications may arise in some EB types
and subtypes within the eye, ear, nose, upper airway, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts.
There is no cure for the condition to date. Optimal management must be multidisciplinary, and involves
wound care, pain control, controlling infections, nutritional support, and prevention and
treatment of complications.
EB presents in different forms. Treatment is supportive. The prognosis of milder forms is good.
Children severely affected with EB and their families live a misery life with impaired quality of
life. Health care workers must be aware of the suffering in these families and proactively support
them.