bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a novel felbinac cataplasm with high permeability for the treatment of arthritis
Authors: Liu Cheng , Bai Ran , Zhao Zhining , Sun Yinghua , Yu Jia , Zhang Peng
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study was to design a novel felbinac cataplasm with higher permeability than commercial product SELTOUCH® through using chemical enhancer strategy to reduce the times of administration and improve the compliance of patients. The novel felbinac cataplasm with high adhesion and good biocompatibility was prepared by calendar coating method. On the basis of previous research, the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analytical method of felbinac was established. According to 2020 Chinese pharmacopoeia (Ch. P), the paddle plate method was used to study the in vitro dissolution. The results showed the release of drug from self-made felbinac cataplasm could reach 90%. Subsequently, the effects of different kinds of penetration enhancers (N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP), isopropyl myristate (IPM) and propylene glycol (PG)) with the same percentage on the penetration of felbinac cataplasm were investigated. Propylene glycol (PG) was proved to be the most effective permeation enhancer among them. After screening different percentages of PG, 1% was added as the amount of permeation enhancer and the 12 h cumulative permeation amount was 189.03 µg/cm2 which was two times of the reference cataplasm (94.44 µg/cm2). The self-made felbinac cataplasm also had good stable permeability after placing at room temperature for 4 months. Finally, the tissue distribution study showed no matter in plasma, skin or muscle, the drug concentration of self-made cataplasm group was higher than reference cataplasm group. These data indicated that the self-made cataplasm provided a new reference for the development of felbinac dosage forms and promising alternative strategy for arthritis therapy.
Synthesis of protective PrEP adherence levels in cisgender women using convergent clinical and bottom-up modelling.
Authors: von Kleist Max , Zhang Lanxin , Iannuzzi Sara , Chaturvedula Ayyappa , Haberer Jessica , Hendrix Craig
Published: April 2023

Globally, most HIV infections occur in heterosexual women in resource-limited settings. In these settings, female self-protection with generic emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate pre-exposure prophylaxis (FTC/TDF-PrEP) may constitute a major pillar of the HIV prevention portfolio. However, clinical trials in women had inconsistent outcomes, sparking uncertainty regarding risk-group specific adherence requirements and causing reluctance in testing and recommending on-demand regimen in women.
We analyzed all FTC/TDF-PrEP trials to established PrEP efficacy ranges in women. In a ‘bottom-up’ approach, we modeled hypotheses corroborating risk-group specific adherence-efficacy profiles. Finally, we used the clinical efficacy ranges to (in-)validate hypotheses.
We found that different clinical outcomes could solely be explained by the proportion of enrolled participants not taking the product, allowing, for the first time, to unify clinical observations. This analysis showed that 90% protection was achieved, when women took some of the product. Using ‘bottom-up’ modelling, we found that hypotheses of putative male/female differences were either irrelevant, or statistically inconsistent with clinical data. Furthermore, our multiscale modelling indicated that 90% protection was achieved if oral FTC/TDF was taken at least twice weekly.
Diet replacement with whole insect larvae affects intestinal morphology and microbial ecosystem of broiler chickens
Authors: Vasilopoulos Stylianos , Giannenas Ilias , Mellidou Ifigeneia , Stylianaki Ioanna , Antonopoulou Efthimia , Tzora Athina , Skoufos Ioannis A. , Athanassiou Christos G. , Papadopoulos Elias , Fortomaris Paschalis
Published: April 2023

A trial with 120 day-old Ross-308 broilers that were randomly allocated in three treatments with 10 birds in each pen was conducted to evaluate whether a control commercialised maize and soybean meal in mash form or this diet containing whole TM larvae at 5% (TM5) or 10% (TM10), respectively would affect either the intestinal morphometry in small intestine or intestinal microbiome on ileum or the ceca of broilers. On d35 intestinal samples were collected either in 10% buffered formalin for histopathological assessment or digesta from ileal and caecal parts were assessed for their bacterial community diversity through 16S rRNA gene high-throughput amplicon sequencing on the V3-V4 hypervariable region. Histomorphometric investigation revealed higher duodenum Vh in TM5, higher jejunum Cd but lower duodenum Cd (P ≤ 0.05) in the treated groups. Intestinal bacterial microbiota showed varying implications; Lactobacilli and Staphylococci were eminent in the caecum. Bacteroides were found increased in TM5 and Lactobacilli and Cutibacterium were found increased in TM10. In the ileum of TM5, several Bacteroides and Lactobacilli species, Enterococcus durans and Streptococcus gallolyticus decreased, whereas most Lactobacilli decreased and Clostridium jejuni increased in TM10. Diet supplementation with TM larve can alter the composition of gastrointestinal microbiota both on ileum and cecum.
Comparison of Conventional Audiometry with a Game-Based Audiometric Application for Screening the Hearing Thresholds of Children and Adults
Authors: Law Chin Po , Wong Lena Lai Nar , Chung King
Published: April 2023

Background This study aimed to compare the accuracy and the feasibility of a low-cost automated game-based hearing screening application (Aud⋅It) with conventional audiometry to screen the hearing thresholds of children and adults. Concurrent validity between the two audiometric tests was also explored.Methods Aud⋅It was designed to use a three-alternative choice paradigm to test hearing thresholds and its transducer output accuracy was tested and checked extensively to ensure the conformance to the expected levels of insert earphones specified in ANSI/ASA S3.6: 2010 (2018). It is also equipped with a calibration function that can allow user calibration of other types of transducers (e.g., supraural headphones). A total of 131 children and adults aged between 3 and 82 were recruited for this study. Hearing thresholds were measured using Aud⋅It and conventional audiometry with the order of the tests counterbalanced and the differences between the thresholds were compared for each participant at corresponding frequencies and test ear. Tympanometry and otoacoustic emissions were used to check the middle ear and the outer hair cell functions. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was used to screen the cognitive abilities of the adult participants.Results Ninety-five percent of the thresholds obtained using Aud⋅It and conventional audiometry agreed within 5 dB, which is an acceptable clinical variability for audiometry testing. Pearson correlation coefficients indicated a strong and significant correlation between the two audiometric measures (r = 0.977), demonstrating excellent concurrent validity. Interclass correlation [ICC3,k; 0.986 (95% CI = 0.980–0.990)] and Cronbach’s alpha (0.988) values indicate the hearing thresholds obtained using Aud⋅It had excellent agreement with those obtained using conventional audiometry.. Most participants aged 3 years and the participants with lower cognitive ability either could not be tested using Aud⋅It or showed large threshold differences between the two audiometric tests, suggesting that they need to be tested using conventional audiometry by trained audiologists. The average test completion time of Aud⋅It was 7 minutes and 48 seconds.Conclusion Aud⋅It is a viable hearing screening tool for testing children more than four years of age and adults without cognitive impairments.
Symmetrically substituted carbazole derivatives exert antiproliferative effects through catalytic inhibition of topoisomerase II and apoptosis induction
Authors: Olszewski Mateusz , Maciejewska Natalia , Kallingal Anoop , Chylewska Agnieszka , Dąbrowska Aleksandra Małgorzata , Biedulska Małgorzata , Makowski Mariusz , Padrón José Manuel , Baginski Maciej
Published: April 2023

Human DNA topoisomerases are vital enzymes for DNA replication, transcription, chromatin condensation, and maintenance of their structure. Due to this fact inhibition of topoisomerase II is a common approach used in cancer treatment. Carbazole scaffold has a wide range of biological activities and appears as a core in many active compounds. It also plays important role in anticancer research. The present study shows the in vitro biological evaluation of three symmetric carbazole derivatives, substituted with furan or thiophene, as potential antitumor agents. Compounds efficiently inhibited the proliferation of all tested cancer cell lines mostly at nanomolar concentrations. They were further characterized for their effect on cell cycle progression, mitochondria disruption, DNA damage induction, and type of cellular death. Moreover, analysis of their mode of action indicates, that investigated carbazole derivatives inhibit topoisomerase II. Among them, compound 36a exhibited the strongest catalytic inhibitory activity against topoisomerase IIα and could be a potential lead compound for developing novel promising anticancer compounds.
Flock Composition and Socio-economic Characteristics of Village Chicken Production System in Western Zone of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Markos Shishay , Belay Berhanu , Dessie Tadelle
Published: April 2023

A survey was conducted in Western Tigray, Northern Ethiopia to assess flock composition, ownership, and gender roles in chicken production and factors affecting chicken product consumption. Multi-stage sampling procedures were employed to select three districts, nine sample peasant associations, and 385 respondents. A pretested, structured questionnaire and focused group discussion were employed to generate data. All survey data were analyzed using SPSS software. Chicken flock size per household is significantly different among the three agro ecologies. The overall mean chicken flock size per household was 24. 35 ± 10. 69. The effective population size Ne and the rate of inbreeding (∆F) were 1263. 69, and 0.04, respectively. Chicken and egg consumption is influenced by cultural and religious festivals, farmer status, agroecology, breed, plumage colour, shank type, comb type, feather distribution, and age. In all agro ecologies, the average annual chicken and egg consumption per household was higher among large-scale farmers than among small-scale farmers. The average annual chicken consumption per household was 7.76 ± 0.68 and 20.79 ± 0.68 for small and large-scale farmers, respectively. Similarly, the average annual egg consumption was 67.52 ± 3.13 and 182.27 ± 3.13 for small and large-scale farmers, respectively. The ranking indices of consumption preferences according to plumage colours indicated uniform preferences for chicken plumage colours for consumption across the agro ecologies. Chickens with red (1st ), greyish (2nd ), and multicoloured (3rd ) plumage colours were the most preferred for consumption, while chickens with full white and black colours were used for mystical purposes in the study. Every family member participated in taking care of chickens, Even though the level of responsibility varied among family members. Husband and wife involved in decision-making of chicken product utilization even though their degrees of involvement varied across the three agro ecologies. Information on flock composition, factors affecting chicken product consumption, ownership, and gender roles are prerequisites for the design and implementation of successful chicken breeding strategies.
Intra-articular injection of PLGA/polydopamine core-shell nanoparticle attenuates osteoarthritis progression
Authors: Zong Lujie , Wang Qing , Sun Houyi , Wu Qian , Xu Yaozeng , Yang Huilin , Lv Shujun , Zhang Liang , Geng Dechun
Published: April 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration, which is regulated by oxidative stress, and there is currently no clinical drug to alleviate its development. Kartogenin (KGN) was found to treat cartilage damage in early OA, but its application is limited by the rapid clearance from synovial fluid. This study synthesized a KGN-loaded nanocarrier based on PLGA/polydopamine core/shell structure to treat OA. The prepared KGN@PLGA/PDA-PEG-E7 nanoparticles could stay in the joint cavity for more than four weeks, ensuring the long-term sustained release of KGN after a single intra-articular injection. Moreover, the polyphenolic structure of PDA makes it effective in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), so the KGN@PLGA/PDA-PEG-E7 NPs could promote chondrogenic differentiation even under oxidative stress conditions. In addition, the BMSCs-targeting peptide E7(EPLQLKM) conferred effective BMSCs affinity to KGN@PLGA/PDA-PEG-E7 NPs, which enhanced the efficacy of inducing cartilage in vitro and in vivo. As a result, the KGN@PLGA/PDA-PEG-E7 nanoparticles could effectively protect cartilage and subchondral bone in a rat ACLT model. In summary, KGN@PLGA/PDA-PEG-E7 nanoparticles can be used for intra-articular injection to effectively alleviate OA progression. This therapeutic strategy can also be extended to the delivery of other drugs or targeting other tissues to treat joint diseases.
Potential functions of circular RNAs in the osteogenic differentiation of human adipose- derived stem cells
Authors: Sun Xiang , Han Jiusong , Wang Jing , Lian Junxiang , Luan Xiuwen , Ai Weijian , Zhou Huixi , Liu Shuguang
Published: April 2023

Background The differential expression of circular RNAs (circRNAs) with potential functions during the osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) was investigated.Methods Three groups of hADSCs and cells after 14 d of osteogenic differentiation were studied. Differentially expressed circRNAs before and after the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs were screened using circRNA high-throughput sequencing technology. The potential functions and targets of the differentially expressed circRNAs were analysed using bioinformatics (Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and prediction of circRNA–miRNA–mRNA relationships).Results A total of 8732 differentially expressed circRNAs with 2-fold changes in expression between before and after the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs, including 2905 upregulated circRNAs and 5827 downregulated circRNAs, were identified. GO and KEGG analyses showed that some target genes of the differentially expressed circRNAs were associated with biological functions and biological pathways involved in osteogenic differentiation. Construction of the circRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulatory network showed that many miRNAs and mRNAs could be regulated by the same circRNA through different signalling pathways.Conclusions The circRNA expression profile changed significantly during the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs. Some differentially expressed circRNAs might competitively bind to miRNAs to inhibit their binding to mRNAs and thus regulate the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs.
Analyzing the changing trend of corneal biomechanical properties under different influencing factors in T2DM patients
Authors: Li Tao , Lin Zhiwu , Tang Juan , Li Ying , Liu Xingde , Li Biao , Wu Xiaoli , Fang Qilin , Dai Chuanqiang , Lv Jing , Liu Guogang
Published: April 2023

Objective To analyze the changing trend of corneal hysteresis (CH) and corneal resistance factor (CRF) values under different influencing factors in T2DM patients.Purpose All patients underwent the ophthalmoscopy and fundus nuorescein angiography(FFA). A total of 650 patients with T2DM visited The First People’s Hospital of Ziyang from February 2022 to March 2023 were included. Logistic linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent risk factors of gender, age, course of T2DM, hypertension, smoking, drinking, BMI, systolic blood pressure(SBP) and diastolic blood pressure(DBP), fasting blood glucose(FBG), cholesterol(TC), triglycerides(TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and hemoglobin (Hb)A1c related with T2DM. At the same time, according to the course of T2DM, FBG, DR stage, HbA1c (%) and other different pathological changes, the CH and CRF values were measured by the ocular response analyzer (ORA), and the change trend of their values was analyzed.Results In this study, we discovered that the course of T2DM, smoking history, BMI, FBG, DR, HbA1c, TC, TG, LDL-C were common risk factors for T2DM, while HDL-C was a protective factor, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). With the prolongation of T2DM, the increase of FBG, and the accumulation of HbA1C, the values of CH and CRF gradually decreased, especially in HbA1c (%) > 12, the values of CH (1.85 ± 0.33)mmHg and CRF(1.28 ± 0.69)mmHg decreased the most. Compared with the Non-DR group, the CH and CRF values gradually decreased in the mild-NPDR, moderate-NPDR, severe-NPDR and PDR groups, with the lowest CH and CRF values in the PDR group. Analysis of variance between groups showed statistically significant differences in CH and CRF values (P < 0.05).Conclusion In patients with T2DM, early measurement of corneal biomechanical properties by ORA so as to evaluate the change trend of CH and CRF values in different situations will help to identify and prevent diabetic keratopathy as soon as possible.
A comprehensive preimplantation genetic testing approach for SEA-type α-thalassemia by fluorescent Gap-polymerase chain reaction combined with haplotype analysis
Authors: Wang Jing , Ma Yuanlin , Guo Jing , Li Rong , Zhou Canquan , Xu Yanwen
Published: April 2023

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and necessity of using fluorescence Gap-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) combined with haplotype analysis in preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for SEA-type α-thalassemia.Methods Twenty-six PGT biopsy cycles were performed in 25 families from June 2021 to February 2022. All couples were carriers of the SEA-type α-thalassemia. Fluorescent Gap-PCR was employed for fragment deletion detection. Subsequently, according to the PCR results, reference embryos were identified to establish haplotype using single nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) array, while aneuploidy was screened simultaneously. In the cases that PCR results were inconsistent with the haplotype results, the reasons were investigated, either by re-test of the biopsied samples or re-biopsy of the embryo.Results Among 172 embryos, 162 had a consistent result tested by both methods, leading to a consistency rate of 94.2%. Ten embryos had inconsistent results, which were mainly due to chromosome 16 aneuploidy (n = 7), allele drop-out (ADO) in Gap-PCR (n = 2), or incorrectly haplotype due to poor sample amplification quality (n = 1). Clinical pregnancy rate of each frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) was 57.7% (15/26). Six families underwent prenatal diagnosis, which confirmed the PGT results.Conclusions Fluorescent Gap-PCR combined with haplotype analysis is feasible and necessary for SEA-type α-thalassemia PGT.
Evaluation of medicaments and final irrigating strategies on resin cement penetration and the bond strength of prefabricated fiber posts in oval-shaped root canals
Authors: Dewi Anat , Sastraruji Thanapat , Piangsuk Tarin , Louwakul Phumisak
Published: April 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different medicaments and root canal irrigation technique on dentinal tubule penetration of the resin cement and push-out bond strength of fiber post cemented with self-adhesiveresin cement.
Materials and Methods: Ninety mandibular premolars were mechanically instrumented until the apical size matches ISO 40. The specimens were divided into three groups based on medicaments; control (no medication), calcium hydroxide (CH), and triple antibiotic paste (TAP). The medicated groups were subdivided into 4 groups according to final irrigation techniques including conventional needle irrigation (CNI), sonic (SI), ultrasonic (PUI), and XP-endo finisher (XP). The specimens were cemented with RelyX U200 self-adhesive resin cement and were cross-sectioned to observe dentinal tubule penetration using confocal laser scanning microscope and perform push-out bond strength tests. The statistical evaluation was performed using One-Way ANOVA and Duncan’s post hoc test.
Results: The CNI group showed significantly lower levels of penetrated resin cement and bond strength compared to the control group in both CH and TAP groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed when ultrasonic and XP-endo finisher were used for root canal irrigation (p > 0.05).
Conclusions: Medicaments can decrease the bond strength and penetration of resin cement into the dentinal tubules. Using agitated irrigation methods during final irrigation can enhance the cement adhesion and penetration.
Clinical Relevance: Agitated irrigation methods such as PUI and XP can improve resin cement adhesion after medication.
Changes in the femoral trochlear induced with estradiol exposure, an experimental study on rats
Authors: Wu Yu , Zhou Jin , Li Yanjun , Yu Hetong , Li Weifeng , Guo Pengfei , Han Zitao , Guo Lan , Ma Zhanbei
Published: April 2023

Background: It is well known that estrogen is closely related to bone and joint tissue. Findings indicate that estradiol, injected during pregnancy, passes through the placental barrier and reaches the fetuses in utero where it exerts its action. Since trochlea appears well established in the prenatal period, however, whether trochlear dysplasia is related to estradiol exposure has not been confirmed, and the pathological process of estradiol exposure-induced trochlear dysplasia remains unclear. This study aimed to establish an estradiol exposure animal model in fetuses and to analyze the morphology of the femoral trochlear in neonatal rats.
Methods: 30 pregnant Wistar rats provided by the local Animal Center
were assigned randomly into 3 groups, a high dose estradiol injection group, a low dose estradiol injection group and a blank control group. The pregnant rats in high dose group were intramuscular injected with estradiol benzoate, 200 μg/kg body weight, intramuscularly injected until the neonatal rats were born, and low dose group with 100 μg/kg body weight. Gross, cross-sectional observation and histological staining measurement of the rat offspring were conducted to evaluate the morphological changes of the femoral trochlea.
Results: The incidence of trochlear dysplasia increased with the concentration of estradiol injection. Neonatal rats in the high dose group had the high prevalence of trochlea dysplasia (53 of 60), followed by low dose of trochlea dysplasia (49 of 60). Gross and cross-sectional observation showed a shallower trochlea groove in two groups with estradiol injection. Histological staining measurement indicated that the trochlear sulcus angle and trochlear sulcus depth were significantly different between the two groups with estradiol injection and the blank control group at 0,5 and 10 days after birth.
Conclusion: In this study, estradiol exposure in fetuses had an adverse effect on intrauterine development and could induce trochlear dysplasia in rat offspring. In addition, this study also showed that the higher concentration of estradiol injection in pregnant rats, the more incidence of trochlear dysplasia in rat offspring.
Cluster Analysis Revealed Antibiotics with the Highest Efficacy Against Bacteria Isolated from Patients with Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases of the Soft Tissues of the Facial Area
Authors: Faustova Mariia , Nazarchuk Oleksandr , Loban' Galina , Ananieva Maiia , Chumak Yuliia , Lokes Kateryna , Avetikov Davyd
Published: April 2023

Incorrect prescription of antibiotics in dental surgery leads to acquisition of drug resistance by microorganisms. The aim of the given study was to conduct a retrospective cluster analysis of antibacterial drugs according to their efficacy against bacteria isolated from patients with infectious inflammatory diseases of the facial soft tissue. The cross-sectional study involved 351 patients who were treated for in the department of maxillofacial surgery during 2019-2022. According to the results of cluster analysis, clinical isolates of S. aureus isolated from foci of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the facial soft tissue retain sensitivity to moxifloxacin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, norfloxacin and cefoxitin. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp. are most sensitive to norfloxacin, erythromycin, benzylpenicillin, kanamycin, clindamycin, gentamicin and azithromycin, and Enterococcus ssp. to norfloxacin and tigecycline. The genus Kocuria and viridans streptococci group isolates retained a stable sensitivity only to vancomycin in a retrospective analysis.
Snakins: Antimicrobial potential and prospects of genetic engineering for enhanced disease resistance in plants
Authors: Iqbal Aneela , Khan Raham Sher
Published: April 2023

Snakins of the Snakin/GASA family are short sequenced peptides consisting of three different regions: a C-terminal GASA domain, an N-terminal signal sequence and a variable region. The GASA domain is comprised of 12 conserved cysteine ​​residues responsible for the structural stability of the peptide. Snakins are playing a variety of roles in response to various biotic stresses such as bacterial, fungal, and nematodes infections and abiotic stress like water scarcity, saline condition, and ROS. These properties make snakins very effective biotechnological tools for possible therapeutic and agricultural applications. This review was attempted to highlight and summarize the antifungal and antibacterial potential of snakins, also emphasizing their sequence characteristics, distributions, expression patterns and biological activities. In addition, further details of transgene expression in various plant species for enhanced fungal and bacterial resistance is also discussed, with special emphasis on their potential applications in crop protection and combating plant pathogens.
Findings of a Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study in Patients with Dysphagia
Authors: Cui Qingjia , Wei Bing , He Yuan , Zhang Qian , Jia Weiwei , Wang Haiying , Xi Jianing , Dai Xin
Published: April 2023

Swallowing examination is crucial in patients with dysphagia. We aimed to compare qualitative and quantitative videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) results to provide reference for standardizing quantitative parameters. In total, 117 patients with dysphagia were included, 38 with Parkinson's disease and 39 and 40 in convalescence following cerebral hemorrhage and infarction. VFSS was both qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. Oral transit time differed between oral motor function grades (P < 0.001), swallowing reaction times differed between swallowing reaction duration grades (P < 0.001), and soft palate lift duration differed between the soft palate lift grades (P < 0.001). Superior hyoid bone movement (P < 0.001), anterior hyoid bone movement (P < 0.001), hyoid pause time (P < 0.001), and hyoid movement duration (P = 0.032) differed between the hyoid laryngeal complex movement grades, as did the pharyngeal cavity transit time among the cricopharyngeal muscle opening duration grades (P < 0.001). The laryngeal vestibule closure duration differed among the glottic closure grades (P < 0.001). No statistically significant difference in upper esophageal sphincter opening diameter (P = 0.682) or duration (P = 0.682) among the cyclopharyngeal muscle opening duration grades. The pharyngeal area at rest did not significantly differ among the different vallecular residue (P = 0.202) and pyriform sinus residue (P = 0.116) grades. The quantitative results positively correlated with qualitative. Further optimization of parameters is recommended.
Comparison of Global Decolonization Efficacy with Mupirocin Nasal Drop and Chlorhexidine Mouthwash in Acute Leukemia Patients: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Ghaffary Saba , Javidnia Aref , Beheshtirouy Samineh , Sadeghi Javid , Akbari Aliakbar Movassaghpour , Hamishehkar Hamed , Sarbakhsh Parvin , Sanaat Zohreh , Nikanfar Alireza , Esfahani Ali , Chavoshi Seyed Hadi , Nejati Babak , Raeisi Mortaza , Gholami Nasrin
Published: April 2023

Purpose
Neutropenic fever remains a major complication in acute leukemia. Decolonization is assumed as a promising intervention for eradicating causative agents of infection
Methods
In this randomized clinical trial, 96 patients with acute leukemia were assigned randomly to mupirocin nasal drop 2% (n = 32), chlorhexidine mouthwash 0.2% (n = 33), and control group (n = 31). In control group patients did not receive any medication for decolonization. All patients received treatment for 5 days (2 days prior to chemotherapy until 3 days after chemotherapy). Pharynx and nasal swabs were taken prior to the intervention and at the end of decolonization period in all groups. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by the disc diffusion method in order to identify bacterial isolates.
Results
Bacterial recovery of both nasal and pharynx swabs was observed after global decolonization with mupirocin nasal drop. Decolonization with mupirocin significantly eradicated Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CONS) in both nasal and pharynx swabs (p-value = 0.000). Moreover, mupirocin decreased pseudomonas aeruginosa and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) species. Chlorhexidine mouthwash significantly eradicated CONS in pharynx swabs (p-value = 0.000). In addition, both decolonization strategies decreased both antibiotic use and frequency of fever in leukemic patients.
Conclusion
Global decolonization with mupirocin nasal drop not only eradicates both nasal and pharynx microorganisms, but also reduces antibiotic requirement and frequency of fever in patients with acute leukemia.
The protocol of the present study was approved on December 2016 (registry number: IRCT20160310026998N6).
Diurnal shelf waves in the area of the South Kuril Islands from the TOPEX/Poseidon satellite altimetry data
Authors: Shevchenko Georgy , Tsoi Alexander
Published: April 2023

The existence zones of diurnal shelf waves near the South Kuril Islands were determined based on the analysis of small-scale amplitude and phase variations of diurnal O1 and K1 tidal waves estimated from along-track TOPEX/Poseidon altimetry data. The amplitudes and phases of the these waves were revealed not only along the original tracks (1992–2002), but also along those shifted by half the intertrack distance (2002–2005). This made it possible to more accurately determine the zone of existence of diurnal shelf waves. It was found that these waves, existing in the form of baroclinic coastal trapped modes, strongly influence tidal motions on the oceanic shelf of Urup and Iturup islands. Two wavelengths fit in this section of the shelf (one pair of quasi-stationary eddies is localized on the shelf of Urup Island and the second one on the shelf of Iturup Island). This is an unexpected and interesting result; barotropic shelf modes usually form one pair of eddies (for example, on the northeaster shelf of Sakhalin Island, on the northern shelf of Hokkaido Island and on the oceanic shelf of the North Kuril Islands). We found that the zone of influence of both K1 and O1 tidal waves starting from Chirpoi Island, which means that shelf waves are generated as a result of the diffraction of a large-scale Kelvin tidal wave on the deep Bussol Strait. The existence of lower frequency O1 tidal shelf wave was found not only on the shelf of Urup and Iturup islands, but also on the shelf of Shikotan Island, which is consistent with the earlier results of Yefimov and Rabinovich (1980). Diurnal shelf waves cause significant increase of O1 and K1 amplitudes on the coast of Iturup Island (especially in its southern part) and Urup Island in comparison with the open ocean and produce strong diurnal tidal currents in these regions, as it follows from the direct instrumental. Baroclinic diurnal shelf (coastal trapped) waves are also the reason of vertical movements, forcing water temperature variations at sufficiently great depths, which can have a significant impact on the living conditions of benthic communities.
Smart Manufacturing: Enhancing Efficiency and Quality with Intelligent Computers
Authors: Ihar yeuseyenka
Published: April 2023

CIM is a manufacturing approach that provides a complete automation process to manufacturing industries for efficient and quality production. During the production process, all of the 2 operations are controlled by computers and distributed through a centralized server. The various 3 processes involved in a CIM include prototype designing, product manufacturing, and many complex 4 operations from a single bolt to heavy vehicular engines. CIM combines applications and technologies like CAD, CAM, robotics, manufacturing resource planning, and enterprise management solutions. It can also be considered an integration of all enterprise operations with a common data repository. There exist integrated manufacturing systems, and various approaches are explained in this research article step by step. The issues and challenges exist with the current framework are highlighted, and the solution is provided. The novelty of the proposed research is the use of industry 4.0 technology technologies for simulating industrial processes (overlaying virtual 2D and 3D images on real objects and using holograms to display the HMI (Human Machinery Interface) and virtual equipment. The proposed development methodology allows the integration of Mixed Reality (holograms) with the IoT/SCADA systems. It provides the user with remote control and monitoring of training equipment worldwide through HMIs, including surveillance cameras and holographic dashboards. Apart from 15 graphical and tabular ways of measured and calculated data representation, interactive 3D visualization and animation of training equipment elements are supported. The main purpose of this research paper is to explore the application of intelligent CIM and identify the issues related to CIM. Moreover, the use and integration of intelligent tools and their impact are explored in this research article which 19 can provide the option to the industries manager to choose the best tools and CIM technologies for wider applications.
Unusual Homogenous Dual Permeation Feeding In Squeeze Casting To Produce Quality Composites for Marine Applications
Authors: PANDIAN C. K. ARVINDA , MANIVANNAN A. , BALAMURUGAN R. , Sasikumar R
Published: April 2023

This research effort seeks to examine corrosion, tribological, and mechanical properties of Enhanced Composites made of Aluminium Matrix produced using a new blended dual permeation feeding in squeeze casting route. Squeeze casting's key problems are conglomeration and non-uniform diffusion of reinforcing particles that also ultimately resulted in poor quality composites. This could hinder the composite's effectiveness on key target properties. To mitigate this, an innovative blended feeding was initially attempted to accomplish homogenous distribution, which was successful with subsequent attempts. To produce improved aluminium composite materials with different volume fractions (0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%), AA 6061 was used as the metal matrix and Nano molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) as the reinforcement companion. The high-quality composites have been manufactured for identification using various tests like SEM, EDAX, and Salt Spray.
Prognostic factors of disease-free survival in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Chen Chia-Chi , Tang Wei-Hua , Wu Cheng-Ching , Lee Thung-Lip , Tsai I-Ting , Hsuan Chin-Feng , Hung Wei-Chin , Chung Fu-Mei , Lee Yau-Jiunn , Yu Teng-Hung , Wei Ching-Ting
Published: April 2023

BackgroundBreast cancer is the second most common malignancy globally and a leading cause of cancer death in women. Analysis of factors related to disease-free survival (DFS) has improved understanding of the disease and characteristics related to recurrence. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictors of DFS in patients with breast cancer to enable the identification of patients at high risk who may benefit from prevention interventions.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 559 women with breast cancer who underwent treatment between 2004 and 2022. The study endpoint was DFS (including local recurrence, regional recurrence, secondary breast cancer, or death from any cause). Baseline tumor-related characteristics, treatment-related characteristics, sociodemographic and biochemical data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards analysis and receiving operating characteristic curves. The median DFS was 45 months (range, 2 to 225 months).ResultsBreast cancer recurred in 86 patients (15.4%). Regression analysis showed that age, body mass index, surgery type, T3-T4 clinical tumor stage, tumor grade 3, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage III, Ki67 ≥ 14%, estrogen receptor-negative, progesterone receptor-negative, chemotherapy, carcinoembryonic antigen, CA153, red cell distribution width (RDW)-standard deviation (SD), aspartate aminotransferase, estimated glomerular filtration rate, albumin, hemoglobin, RDW-coefficient of variation, and platelet, white blood cell, neutrophil and monocyte count were associated with DFS. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that AJCC stage III, Ki67 ≥ 14%, albumin, platelet, and RDW-SD were independently associated with DFS. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that albumin ≤ 4.1 g/dl, platelet ≥ 253 10^3/µl, RDW-SD ≥ 44 fL were significantly reduced DFS in patients with breast cancer.ConclusionsIn addition to the traditional prognostic factors such as AJCC stage III and Ki67 ≥ 14%, preoperative a cutoff albumin value of ≤ 4.1 g/dl, a cutoff platelet value of ≥ 253 10^3/µl, and a cutoff RDW-SD value of ≥ 44 fL could significantly predict DFS in patients with breast cancer.
Statistical Analysis of Rebound Hammer Assessment on Reinforced Concrete Buildings
Authors: DOTUN ATOYEBI OLUMOYEWA , O. Afolayan J. , C. Arum , A. Alabi S.
Published: April 2023

This research explores the use of non-destructive equipment (Schmidt Rebound Hammer) to investigate the state of reinforced concrete buildings. A total of 138 Slabs, 266 Beams and 210 Columns were assessed as structural elements spread across six (6) different buildings. The columns, beams and slabs for the residential buildings have overall mean rebound compressive strength of 26.15 N/mm2, 20.18 N/mm2 and 32.2 N/mm2 respectively. For the institutional buildings, the overall average rebound compressive strength for the columns, beams and slabs is 25.71 N/mm2, 27.22 N/mm2 and 34.92 N/mm2 respectively. The columns, beams and slabs for the industrial buildings have overall mean rebound compressive strength of 30.27 N/mm2, 24.23 N/mm2 and 39.87 N/mm2 respectively. Rebound compressive strength values reduce as the height of the building increases. The standard deviation and coefficient of variance for a set of structural elements in the buildings showed high level of uncertainties and disparities which is an established factor in the use of the rebound hammer. This is a clear indication that a more robust method of analysis is needed for the interpretation and drawing of conclusions from the rebound hammer assessment.
Transmission of lethal H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza in ferrets
Authors: Kobasa Darwyn , Warner Bryce , Alkie Tamiru , Vendramelli Robert , Moffat Estella , Tailor Nikesh , Audet Jonathan , Gunawardena Tarini , Safronetz David , Mubareka Samira , Moraes Theo , Lung Oliver , Embury-Hyatt Carissa , Berhane Yohannes
Published: April 2023

Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of the H5N1 subtype are highly lethal in many avian species. Since 2014, viruses of the genetically distinct clade 2.3.4.4 have been circulating in Eurasia, Africa and briefly in North America, killing millions of wild and domestic birds. In December, 2021 clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses were first isolated from poultry and wild birds in Canada. Further spread of H5N1 viruses has since led to infection in many terrestrial and aquatic mammalian species. Some of the H5N1 viruses isolated from mammals have acquired adaptations previously shown to increase viral replication in mammals as well as novel patterns of reassortment of internal gene segments with North American (NA) lineage influenza A viruses (IAVs). While there have been few human cases of infection with clade 2.3.4.4b viruses reported to date, the potential for spillover, particularly of viruses harboring mammalian adaptation signatures remains a critical concern. Here we show that multiple naturally circulating reassortant H5N1 viruses can replicate in primary human airway epithelial cells and cause lethal disease in multiple mammalian species. One isolate, A/Red Tailed Hawk/ON/FAV-0473-4/2022, efficiently transmitted by direct contact between ferrets, resulting in lethal outcomes. Historically, H5 subtype viruses do not transmit effectively between mammals, and recent studies of currently circulating H5N1 viruses showed mild infection outcome in ferrets without detectable transmission. While known specific mutations within the Eurasian lineage H5Nx viruses have allowed for increased viral fitness in mammals, reassortment of H5N1 viruses with NA lineage avian IAVs may be unpredictably (unexpectedly) contributing to further enhancements in virulence and transmissibility in mammals, with potential increased risk to humans. Our research has determined that certain, as yet uncharacterized, genetic signatures may be important determinants of mammalian adaptation and pathogenicity of these viruses. Ongoing surveillance of circulating HPAI A(H5N1) viruses across species, including humans, should be a top priority so as to promptly identify viruses that may have pandemic or outbreak potential in mammals.
Percepções de Discentes de Odontologia em Relação ao Papel da Extensão para a Formação Profissional: Revisão de Literatura
Authors: Silva Laís Cristina da , Uchida Tânia Harumi , Silva Lirian Adriana Maria Pereira da , Lino Junior Hélion Leão , Higasi Maura Sassahara
Published: April 2023

Introdução: A Extensão Universitária é uma importante estratégia de mudança ao estilo de ensino tradicional, proporcionando ao acadêmico a oportunidade de aprendizado em diferentes realidades. Objetivo: Identificar a percepção de discentes dos cursos de Odontologia sobre os projetos de extensão (PE) relacionados à saúde bucal no processo de aprendizagem e formação profissional. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão de literatura, nas bases de dados Pubmed, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Scielo e Google Acadêmico, utilizando os descritores: educação superior; educação em saúde; saúde bucal; odontologia; relações comunidade-instituição. Os critérios de inclusão foram: estudos qualitativos e surveys relacionados com PE, saúde bucal e discentes de cursos de Odontologia; trabalhos completos e disponíveis na íntegra; idioma português ou inglês e sem restrição quanto ao ano de publicação. Resultados: A pesquisa resultou em 289 artigos e após análise de títulos, resumos e verificação dos critérios de inclusão, foram incluídos três artigos científicos. Pode-se constatar que os PE são importantes para a formação profissional, viabilizando maior contato com a população e a comunidade. Além disso, as atividades extensionistas inserem os alunos em situações distintas que possibilitam a transmissão e a absorção de conhecimento de maneira humanizada, com aumento significativo em suas habilidades de comunicação, as quais são qualidades indispensáveis em sua futura prática profissional. Conclusão: Os projetos de extensão mostram-se de forma inegável como grande promotora de trocas de experiências entre a universidade e a comunidade, contribuindo para a formação profissional do discente em Odontologia.
Analysis of the relationship between “business-science” coopetition and intellectual property receipts
Authors: Samoilikova Anastasiia , Artyukhov Artem
Published: April 2023

The study actualizes the issue of cooperation between business and science on the way to the commercialization of innovations in modern conditions. A hypothesis is put forward regarding the relationship between the level of cooperation between industry and science (based on the University-Industry Research Collaboration indicator within the Global Innovation Index) and the income from intellectual property. Therefore, the article aims to confirm the existence and establish a cause-and-effect relationship between the level of cooperation between business and science and the amount of income from intellectual property. A bibliometric analysis is carried out at the first stage to confirm the hypothesis, and the main directions of interdisciplinary research related to this issue are highlighted. In the second stage, the research information base is formed based on the statistical data of the World Intellectual Property Organization for a sample of 10 countries – leaders according to the Global Innovation Index of 2022 for the last 10 years (2013-2022). In the third stage, a correlation analysis is carried out to confirm a relationship’s existence and determine its statistical significance, nature and strength. At the fourth stage, a vector autoregression is constructed, based on the results of which Granger testing for cause-and-effect relationships is performed to determine the influence direction between the studied indicators. It is established that the level of cooperation between business and science is the cause and affects the amount of income from intellectual property in 6 of the 8 countries of the sample, in which the cause-and-effect relationship between the studied indicators was confirmed and established; the amount of income from intellectual property is the cause and affects the level of cooperation between business and science in 5 of the 8 countries of the sample, in which the cause-and-effect relationship between the studied indicators was confirmed. At the same time, in 3 out of 8 countries of the sample, in which the cause-and-effect relationship between the studied indicators was confirmed, a two-way influence was found. Accordingly, it is substantiated that the level of cooperation between business and science directly and positively affects the income from intellectual property. Therefore, the strengthening of collaboration between industry and science will contribute to the increase in the amount of income from intellectual property. In turn, the revenue volume from the intellectual property will also contribute to improving and developing cooperation between business and science. The obtained results can be helpful for scientists in further research in related scientific areas and for representatives of the business community, government officials and other persons interested in this issue.
Irrigation water pricing based on the ELES-WPTI model in the Yinda-Jihuang project of China
Authors: Chen He , Wang Ting , Fang Guohua , He Huaxiang , Xie Xinmin , Yin Mingwan , Xiao Ping
Published: April 2023

Water pricing is the key to maximizing the economic and social benefits of the water transfer project. In this study, we propose the extended linear expenditure system-water price tolerance index (ELES-WPTI) model that combines the ELES model and the WPTI method for water pricing. Firstly, the ELES model is used to estimate the price elasticity of water demand and the basic demand for farmers of different income levels. Secondly, the WPTI method is used to simulate and analyze the affordability of farmers of different income levels for agricultural water under the dynamic change of water price standards. Finally, the ELES-WPTI model is applied to the Yinda-Jihuang (YJ) Project, China, to determine the appropriate agricultural water price. The results reveal that the farmers in the DH district have slightly higher affordability of water price than that in HL District. As water consumption should account for less than 15% of the total production cost and 10% of the net income, the affordable water price is determined to be 237 $/hm² in the DH district and 205 $/hm² in the HL district, respectively.