bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Goat Milk: Compositional, Technological, Nutritional, and Therapeutic Aspects
Authors: Hammam Ahmed R. A. , Salman Saleh M. , Elfaruk Mohamed S. , Alsaleem Khalid A.
Published: August 2021

Since the 1980s, a growing interest in goat milk was noticed due to the nutritional values and health benefits of this milk, which resulted in increasing goat populations and milk production worldwide. This comprehensive review elaborates on goat milk composition compared to other types of milk. It is also an overview of goat milk production, properties, nourishment-value, applications in dairy products, and potential health benefits. Goat milk composition and its characteristics are slightly different from other types of milk and can be utilized to manufacture many dairy products. Fresh goat milk and goat milk products (e.g., yogurt and kefir were found to provide various potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, prevent cardiovascular disease, anti-diabetic and antihypertensive, strengthen bones, boost immunity, and improve metabolism.
A Dansyl-Modified Sphingosine Kinase Inhibitor Dpf-543 Enhanced de Novo Ceramide Generation
Authors: Shamshiddinova Maftuna , Gulyamov Shokhid , Kim Hee Jung , Jung Seo Hyeon , Baek Dong Jae , Lee Yong-Moon
Published: August 2021

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) synthesized by sphingosine kinase (SPHK) is a signaling molecule, involved in cell proliferation, growth, differentiation, and survival. Indeed, a sharp increase of S1P was linked to the pathological outcome with inflammation, cancer metastasis or angiogenesis etc. In this regard, the SPHK/S1P axis regulation has been a specific issue in anticancer strategy to turn accumulated sphingosine (SPN) into cytotoxic ceramides (Cers). For these purposes, there have been numerous chemicals synthesized for SPHK inhibition. In this study, we investigated the comparative efficiency of dansylated PF-543 (DPF-543) on the Cers synthesis along with PF-543. DPF-543 deserved attention in strong cytotoxicity, due to the cytotoxic Cers accumulation by ceramide synthase (CerSs). DPF-543 exhibited dual actions on Cers synthesis by enhance the serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) activity, and by inhibiting SPHKs which eventually induced an unusual environment of the high amount of 3-ketosphinganine and sphinganine (SPA). SPA in turn was consumed to synthesize Cers via de novo pathway. Interestingly, PF-543 increased only the SPN level, but not for SPA. In addition, DPF-543 mildly activates acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase) that contributes a partial increase on Cers. Collectively, a dansyl-modified DPF-543 relatively en-hanced Cers accumulation via de novo pathway which was not observed in PF-543. Our results demonstrated that the structural modification on SPHK inhibitors is still an attractive anticancer strategy by regulating sphingolipid metabolism.
The Smart City Ontology 2.0: Assessing the Components and Interdependencies of City Smartness
Authors: Komninos Nicos , Panori Anastasia , Kakderi Christina
Published: August 2021

The paper is a follow-up of a previous investigation and effort to develop the ontology of the smart city (Komninos, N., Bratsas, C., Kakderi, C., and Tsarchopoulos, P. "Smart city ontologies: Improving the effectiveness of smart city applications". Journal of Smart Cities, vol. 1(1), 1-17. https://www.komninos.eu/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/2015-Smart-City-Ontologies-Published.pdf). Since the publication of this article in 2015, research and literature on smart cities have evolved significantly, as have the technologies for digital spaces and applications that support city functions. These developments are reflected in the present form of the smart city ontology 2.0 we propose. It depicts the building blocks of the smart city ontology (technologies, structure, function, planning), and the object properties and data properties that connect structural blocks and classes. The aim of the SCO 2.0 is to provide a better understanding and description of the smart/intelligent city landscape; identify the main components and processes, the terms used to describe them, their definition and meaning; clarify key processes related to the integration of the different dimensions of the smart city, mainly the physical, social, and digital dimensions. The paper is accompanied by an owl file, developing the ontology through the editor Protégé.
In Vivo Elongation Patterns of the Collateral Ligaments in Healthy Knees During Functional Activities
Authors: Hosseini Nasab S.H. , Smith C.R. , Postolka B. , Schütz P. , List R. , Taylor W.R.
Published: August 2021

Background:

Improved knowledge of in vivo function of the collateral ligaments is essential for enhancing rehabilitation and guiding surgical reconstruction as well as soft-tissue balancing in total knee arthroplasty. The aim of this study was to quantify in vivo elongation patterns of the collateral ligaments throughout complete cycles of functional activities.

Methods:

Knee kinematics were measured using radiographic images captured with a mobile fluoroscope while healthy subjects performed level walking, downhill walking, and stair descent. The registered in vivo tibiofemoral kinematics were then used to drive subject-specific multibody knee models to track collateral ligament elongation.

Results:

The elongation patterns of the medial collateral ligament varied distinctly among its bundles, ranging from lengthening of the anterior fibers to shortening of the posterior bundle with increases in the knee flexion angle. The elongation patterns of the lateral collateral ligament varied considerably among subjects. It showed an average 4% shortening with increasing flexion until 60% to 70% of the gait cycle, and then recovered during the terminal-swing phase until reaching its reference length (defined at heel strike).

Conclusions:

The observed nonuniform elongation of the medial collateral ligament bundles suggests that single-bundle reconstruction techniques may not fully restore healthy ligament function. Moreover, the observed ligament elongation patterns indicate greater varus than valgus laxity in the loaded knee.

Clinical Relevance:

Through providing key knowledge about the in vivo elongation patterns of the collateral ligaments throughout complete cycles of functional activities, this study offers in vivo evidence for benchmarking ligament reconstruction and soft-tissue balancing in total knee arthroplasty.
MODEL KURIKULUM KOMPETENSI BERPIKIR PADA PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INDONESIA DI PERGURUAN TINGGI VOKASI
Authors: Putera Zulmy Faqihuddin , Shofiah Nurul
Published: August 2021

Abstrak: kompetensi berpikir merupakan aspek penting yang harus dimiliki oleh mahasiswa baik perguruan tinggi vokasional maupun nonvokasional. Pengimplementasian kemampuan berpikir dapat melalui pembelajaran matakuliah yang dilakukan. Bahasa indonesia yang merupakan matakuliah wajib yang harus dibelajarkan di perguruan tinggi memiliki relevansi terkait internalisasi kompetensi berpikir kepada mahasiswa. Relevansi matakuliah Bahasa sebagai sarana bagi mahasiswa unruk mengungkapkan pikiran sebagai bentuk kemampuan berpikir melalui kompetensi berbahasa secara lisan maupun tulis sesuai dengan kaidah yang berlaku. Mahasiswa mengembangkan kemampuan berpikir dengan cara mengeksplorasi teks dalam kehidupan akademik, mendesain proposal penelitian dan kegiatan, melaporkan hasil penelitian dan kegiatan, serta mengaktualisasikan diri dalam karya tulis ilmiah. Namun peningkatan kompetensi berpikir mahasiswa perlu adanya model pengembangan kurikulum kemampuan berpikir pembelajaran Bahasa Indonesia di perguruan tinggi vokasi. Adanya pengembangan model kurikulum tersebut bertujuan menghasilkan alternatif model kurikulum khususnya untuk matakuliah Bahasa Indonesia pada perguruan tinggi vokasi yang inovatif serta sesuai dengan capaian profil lulusan yang diharapkan. Adapun model kurikulum yang sesuai diterapkan dalam pendidikan vokasi adalah model kurikulum pembeajaran bahasa Indonesia berbasis kompetensi. Ciri khas pendidikan vokasi terletak pada praktik. Ini berarti diperlukan pembelajaran yang menghubungkan dengan pengalaman kehidupan nyata. Pada dasarnya semua pendekatan pembelajaran yang menghubungkan dengan pengalaman kehidupan nyata merupakan elemen pembelajaran berbasis konteks. Kata-Kata Kunci: Kompetensi Berpikir, Pembelajaran Bahasa Indonesia, Vokasi
Study of Ultrasonic Logs and Seepage Potential on Sandwich Sections Retrieved from a North Sea Production Well
Authors: Skadsem Hans Joakim , Gardner Dave , Jiménez Katherine Beltrán , Govil Amit , Palacio Guillermo Obando , Delabroy Laurent
Published: August 2021

Important functions of well cement are to provide zonal isolation behind casing strings and to mechanically support and protect the casing. Experience suggests that many wells develop integrity problems related to fluid migration or loss of zonal isolation, which often manifest themselves in sustained casing pressure (SCP) or surface casing vent flows. Because the characteristic sizes of realistic migration paths are typically only on the order of tens of micrometers, detecting, diagnosing, and eventually treating migration paths remain challenging problems for the industry. As part of the recent abandonment operation of an offshore production well, sandwich joints comprising production casing, annulus cement, and intermediate casing were cut and retrieved to surface. Two of these joints were subjected to an extensive test campaign, including surface relogging, chemical analyses, and seepage testing, to better understand the ultrasonic-log response and its potential connection to rates of fluid migration. One of the joints contained an apparently well-defined top of cement (TOC) with settled barite on top. Although the settled material initially provided a complete seal against gas flow, the sealing capability was irreversibly lost as part of subsequent testing. The two joints have effective microannuli sizes in the range of tens of micrometers, in agreement with previous reports on SCP buildup in wells. On a local scale, however, we observed significant variations in cement quality from both the log results and the seepage testing. Further, we found qualitatively very good correlations between seepage-test results and the log results for the bond between cement and casings. The best bonded cement was found directly above a production casing collar, where a short segment of well-bonded cement prevented measurable steady-state seepage of nitrogen. Additional tests involving internal pressurization of the production casing suggested that certain annular-seepage characteristics are well-described by an effective microannulus at the cement/casing interfaces. We consider the two sandwich joints to be highly representative and relevant for similar mature wells that are to be abandoned.
Sanctions and international interaction improve cooperationto avert climate change
Authors: Grimalda Gianluca , Belianin Alexis , Hennig-Schmidt Heike , Requate Till , Ryzhkova Marina V.
Published: August 2021

We report the protocol relative to the experimental project "Sanctions and international interaction improve cooperation to avert climate change",which connected through the internet pairs of laboratories from Kiel and Bonn (Germany) and Moscow and Tomsk (Russia). The connection was realized through Z-Tree. Each research session comprised 24 participants, who were randomly allocated to 4 groups, whose members were three from one laboratory and three from the other. After receiving instructions and passing a comprehension test, participants interacted over ten rounds. Each participant had a fixed allocation of money in each round, which could have been kept for oneself or contributed to a group account. Contributions decreased the probability that everyone suffered a 75% loss in their personal account at the end of the interaction. A random draw determined whether occurrence the loss event occurred, and individual payoffs were paid privately in cash at the end of the session.
Health outcomes of children born/suspected with ZIKV: Protocol for the ZIKAction Paediatric Registry in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Ruiz-Burga Elisa , de Siqueira Isadora Cristina , Melbourne-Chambers Roxanne , Bologna Rosa Maria , Christie Celia D C , Berberian Griselda , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Bailey Heather , Palmer Paulette , Oletto Andrea , de Almeida Breno Lima , Lage Maria Lucia Costa , Giaquinto Carlo , Thorne Claire
Published: August 2021

Background: Although the number of Zika virus (ZIKV) cases has substantially declined in Latin America and the Caribbean since the 2015-2016 outbreaks, the cohort of children born at that time and affected by congenital zika syndrome (CZS) are now around 4-5 years old and experiencing an ongoing impact on their health and development. Gaps in our understanding remain regarding the outcomes of ZIKV exposure in utero and congenital infection and the consequences of congenital zika syndrome (CZS) for health throughout childhood. Methods: The ZIKAction Paediatric Registry is an international multi-centre registry of infants and children with documented ZIKV exposure in utero (i.e. born to mother with confirmed infection in pregnancy) and/or with confirmed or suspected congenital ZIKV infection. Clinical teams at participating sites in Argentina, Brazil and Jamaica conduct retrospective case note reviews of children eligible for inclusion in the Registry and enter pseudonymised data into a central Registry database, with additional data collected prospectively on routine follow-up at some sites. Data collected will include sociodemographic, maternal and pregnancy information, delivery information and newborn assessment, paediatric clinical assessments (physical, neurological, developmental, ophthalmological, audiological), and laboratory results conducted as part of local standard of care. The ZIKAction Paediatric Registry network will conduct pooled analyses to address questions relating to characteristics, health and neurodevelopmental outcomes of this population. The Registry is embedded within a larger programme of research studies conducted by ZIKAction. Discussion: As the health outcomes of children affected by ZIKV continue to unfold, this paediatric registry will provide comprehensive data on their clinical and neurodevelopmental outcomes, growth and management, as well as on later sequelae. This will inform their support and care and provide potential insights on pathogenesis of the disease, of importance to currently affected families and for the response to possible future outbreaks. It will highlight the service needs of the affected populations in Latin America and the Caribbean and allow the identification of potential participants for future studies.
Human Adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Exhibit High HLA-DR Levels and Altered Cellular Characteristics under a Xeno-free and Serum-free Condition
Authors: Dam Phuong TM , Hoang Van T. , Bui Hue Thi Hong , Hang Le Minh , Hoang Duc M. , Nguyen Hoang Phuong , Thi Lien Ha , Thanh Huong Tran Thi , Nguyen Xuan-Hung , Liem Nguyen Thanh
Published: August 2021

Background: We have observed an increased expression of negative markers in some clinical-grade, xeno- and serum-free cultured adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (ADMSC) samples. It gave rise to concern that xeno- and serum-free conditions might have unexpected effects on human ADMSCs. This study aims to test this hypothesis for two xeno- and serum-free media, PowerStem MSC1 media (PS) and StemMACS MSC Expansion Media (SM), that support the in vitro expansion of ADMSCs.Methods: We investigated the expression of negative markers in 42 clinical-grade ADMSC samples expanded in PS. Next, we cultured ADMSCs from seven donors in PS and SM and examined their growth and colony-forming ability, surface marker expression, differentiation, cell cycle and senescence, as well as genetic stability of two passages representing an early and late passage for therapeutic MSCs.Results: 15 of 42 clinical-grade PS-expanded ADMSC samples showed an increased expression of negative markers ranging from 2.73% to 34.24%, which positively correlated with the age of donors. This rise of negative markers was related to an upregulation of Human Leukocyte Antigen – DR (HLA-DR). In addition, the PS-cultured cells presented decreased growth ability, lower frequencies of cells in S/G2/M phases, and increased ß-galactosidase activity in passage 7 suggesting their senescent feature compared to those grown in SM. Although MSCs of both PS and SM cultures were capable of multilineage differentiation, the PS-cultured cells demonstrated chromosomal abnormalities in passage 7 compared to the normal karyotype of their SM counterparts.Conclusions: These findings suggest that the SM media is more suitable for the expansion of therapeutic ADMSCs than PS. The study also hints a change of ADMSC features at more advanced passages and with increased donor’s age. Thus, it emphasizes the necessity to cover these aspects in the quality control of therapeutic MSC products.
Exposure to anthropogenic activities and age class mediate mesocarnivore habitat selection in a human-dominated landscape
Authors: Serieys Laurel , Bishop Jacqueline M , Rogan Matthew S , Smith Justine A , Suraci Jusin P , O'Riain M Justin , Wilmers Chris C
Published: August 2021

Wildlife populations are increasingly challenged by human activities that disrupt landscape connectivity, animal movement, population dynamics and population persistence. Yet modified habitats may provide resource subsidies for generalist species resulting in increased selection of disturbed areas. Understanding how species adjust their space use and activity in human-modified landscapes is fundamental to conserving wildlife populations globally. To test three competing hypotheses explaining spatiotemporal responses to human activity, we investigated coarse (3 hour)- and fine (20 minute)- scale habitat selection, activity patterns, and measured home ranges in a human-dominated landscape. We GPS-collared 25 adults and subadult caracals (Caracal caracal) from three contiguous subpopulations in urban and wildland-dominated regions. Caracals in the wildland-dominated region avoided proximity to urban areas while caracals in the urban-dominated region selected for close proximity to urban areas. Selection responses for vegetative cover, freshwater, vineyards, the coast, and burned areas was dependent on age class, diel period, and whether individuals were in close proximity to urban areas. Large home ranges demonstrated habitat selection results were not a result of limited landscape use. Caracals did not shift their temporal activity to avoid humans, but selected for closer proximity to urban areas at night, suggesting they seek spatial refugia during the day. Behavioral plasticity whereby individuals seek out spatial refugia promotes the coexistence of this carnivore in a human-dominated landscape. These data are essential to our understanding of what is viable wildlife habitat to a generalist mesocarnivore and provide opportunities to guide land acquisition and conservation by local management agencies.
Graft Survival and Clinical Outcomes of Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty: Long Term Results
Authors: BESEK NILAY KANDEMIR , Yalçınkaya Gülay , Kırgız Ahmet , Çakmak Semih , Genç Selim , Nacaroğlu Şenay Aşık , Yıldız Burçin Kepez , Yıldırım Yusuf , Ağca Alper
Published: August 2021

Purpose: The aim is to report long-term graft survival rates, clinical outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).Methods: In this study 150 eyes, that underwent DMEK whether for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) or for bullous keratopathy (BK), surveilled for 7 years at 6 time-points to evaluate graft survival rates and clinical outcomes of post-corneal transplantation.Results: Overall, the estimated survival probability of 95% confidence interval at 7 years of post-DMEK was 0.58 (0.72-0.77) and the survival probabilities of eyes operated for FECD (0.53) were higher than eyes operated for BK (0.42) (Log Rank 26.87, [p=0.197]). Post-transplant eyes with FECD achieved better visual acuity levels than eyes with BK (p=0.006). Primary graft failure occurred in 11.3% eyes. Secondary graft failure rate was 9.3%, and allograft rejection rate was 4.7%.Conclusion: Although DMEK is effective, safe in long-term, visual results and graft survival rates are better in cases with FECD.
Impact of Sediment-Spiked Fludioxonil On Benthic Macroinvertebrates And Zooplankton From The Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Sun Jian , Xiao Pengfei , Yin Xiaohui , Zhang Kun , Zhu Guonian , Brock Theo C.M.
Published: August 2021

In China, the fungicide fludioxonil, that accumulates and persists in sediments, has a widespread agricultural use to control various fungal diseases. Its residues may cause toxic effects to benthic and pelagic aquatic fauna, thereby impacting ecosystem service functions of aquatic ecosystems.To assess the environmental risks of fludioxonil, sediment-spiked single-species toxicity tests with benthic macroinvertebrates as well as a sediment-spiked indoor freshwater microcosm experiment were performed. The microcosm test systems were populated with benthic invertebrates also used in the single-species tests. In all experiments artificial sediment was used. The single-species tests were conducted with 8 benthic macroinvertebrates covering different taxonomic groups typical for the Yangtze River Delta, China. The 28d-EC10 values thus obtained were used to construct species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) and the hazardous concentration to 5% of the species tested (HC5) was used to derive a provisional long-term Tier-2 regulatory acceptable concentration (RAC) for benthic invertebrates by applying an assessment factor of 3.The microcosm experiment was conducted to study treatment-related responses of benthic macroinvertebrates and pelagic zooplankton. The lowest No Observed Effect Concentrations (NOECs) of benthic invertebrate and of pelagic zooplankton populations were used to derive provisional long-term Tier-3 RACs for, respectively, benthic and pelagic invertebrates by applying an assessment factor of 2. The RACs thus obtained were compared with Predicted Environmental Concentrations (PECs) of fludioxonil in overlying water and the sediment compartment of edge-of-field ponds after application of this fungicide in rice, grape, wheat, maize and tomato crops. Overall, the risks of long-term exposure of fludioxonil to benthic invertebrates and pelagic zooplankton species in these Chinese edge-of-field ponds appear to be relatively small, but some risks cannot be excluded for ponds adjacent to rice.
Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Microplastic in Beach Sand in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Nhon Nguyen Thi Thanh , Nguyen Nguyen Thao , Hai Ho Truong Nam , Hien To Thi
Published: August 2021

Microplastics pollution in Vietnam has been received more attention in recent years due to its adverse impacts on the environment. The coastal areas, especially estuary is potential accumulation zone of microplastics. These locations, where inland waters meet the ocean, are heavily impacted by anthropogenic activities and the dynamic of the sea currents. This study aims to investigate the spatial distribution, physical characteristics, and chemical composition of microplastics in beach sand in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam. A total of 90 sand samples from five sampling sites were collected in November 2019, they were analyzed for size, shape, color, and identity. The results showed that microplastics concentration ranged from 0 to 6.58 pieces/ kg d.w. Microplastics tend to be distributed along the upper-shore line and in the surface layer of sand. The data revealed that microplastics ranging from 2.8–5 mm were the most abundant (72.46%), pellet shape accounted for the highest proportion (41.31%), white and blue are two popular colours up to 80% in total of detected microplastics. Chemical composition of the microplastics was determined by attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy, polypropylene and polystyrene are the two most common plastic types in this study. Macroplastics found in beach sand samples were also assessed, the study shows a positive correlation between microplastic and macroplastic, showing the possible origin of microplastics. The findings of this study provided more insights into the microplastic pollution status in beach sand and the foundation for future investigation.
Cascaded Double κ-μ Shadowed Fading Channels
Authors: Bilim Mehmet
Published: August 2021

In this study, the cascaded double shadowed fading model is mathematically introduced. A novel expression is obtained for the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the cascaded double shadowed fading channels by using Meijer’s G function and Laplace transform. Based on the obtained CDF expression, the exact and asymptotic expressions are derived for the outage probability (OP), the bit error rate (BER) for various modulations of the considered channel model. The OP and the average BER curves with exact simulations obtained by the proposed expressions are presented for different parameters and modulation schemes of the considered channel model. Finally, the accuracy of the derived OP and the average BER expressions is confirmed.
Characteristics of Heavy Metal Migration In Farmland
Authors: Tang Xuefang , Wu Yong , Han Libi , Lan Zhen , Rong Xingping
Published: August 2021

Compared with water and air pollution, soil pollution is highly concealed, has poor self-purification ability, and has high risks associated with accumulation. Characteristics of heavy metal migration directly affect the quality of the environment, and comparative studies utilizing column leaching and natural leaching experiments have rarely been performed. In this study, we used farmland soil samples from Xiba Town in the Wutongqiao district to determine the differences in leaching characteristics between column leaching and natural leaching tests. The results indicate the following. (1)The release of heavy metals in soil is divided into two stages: the first stage is a rapid release period, while the leaching solution has an extremely low heavy metal concentrations during the second stage. The cumulative amount released during the second stage exhibits regular fluctuations, while the heavy metal release rate is consistent with the heavy metal adsorption properties of the soil. (2) The release and accumulation of heavy metals in the soil are influenced by many factors that may interact with each other, which leads to low correlations between the cumulative heavy metals released in the column leaching and natural leaching tests. Simulating natural heavy metal migration trends using the column leaching test is effective to some extent, but there are significant differences between the accumulation sites and accumulated amounts. This study provides a theoretical basis for improving the remediation of soil contaminated by heavy metals.
The Effect of N-acetyl Cysteine on Liver Function after On-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: javaherforooshzadeh fatemeh , hormozi pegah abbasi , Akhondzadeh Reza , olapour Alireza , Hashemi Syed jalal
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Somebody's organ dysfunctions such as heart, lung, kidney, and liver dysfunction are associated with the cardiopulmonary bypass in open-heart surgery.This study aimed effect of the N-acetyl cysteine injection on liver function after on-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft SurgeryMethod: In this clinical trial conducted in Golestan Hospital, Ahvaz, Iran, 60 candidates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery were selected based on the inclusion criteria. The candidates were then randomly divided into two intervention and control groups (30 people each).Intervention: Patients received 3 (2 intraoperative and 1 postoperative) doses of IV N-acetyl cysteine (100 mg/kg) (n=30) or placebo (n=30) over 24 hour. The main outcomes were serum Alkaline Phosphatase, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Alanine Aminotransferase, Bilirubin, PTT, and INR at 4 and 48 hours after surgery. Statistical analysis: The dates were analyzed using SPSS 22. Descriptive statistics were reported as mean ± standard deviation for continuous variables and as frequency and percentage for categorical variables. An unpaired t-test was used to compare the parameters with a normal distribution. Statistical significance level was defined at p-value < 0.05.Results: there were significant differences in terms of, ALT, AST, ALP and Bilirubin levels 4(p-value < 0.001) and 48h after surgery (p-value = 0.002).Conclusion: Based on the findings, intravenous administration of N-acetyl cysteine in patients with CABG significantly may be preserved liver function. Trial registry: Registered under No. Trial registration number IRCT20190506043492N2, date of registration :2020.05.23 .Retrospectively registered
Lipid-In, Sugar-Out: Early Results of Treatment with Additional Ketogenic Parenteral Nutrition in Left Ventricle Assist Device Patients.
Authors: Bejko Jonida , Bottio Tomaso , Caraffa Raphael , Carrozzini Massimiliano , Bifulco Olimpia , Tarzia Vincenzo , Gregori Dario , Pittarello Demetrio Giorgio , Pesenti Francesco Francini , Gerosa Gino , Tona Francesco
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims: Right ventricle failure (RVF) can be a fatal complication following left ventricle assist device (LVAD) implant. Careful intra and postoperative management is becoming increasingly important. Unfortunately, the attempts are limited to the prediction and not to the treatment. There are no data on Ketogenic parenteral nutrition (KPN) for the targeted treatment of RVF. The aim of our retrospective observational case-control study is to determine whether KPN may play a role as additional treatment to conventional therapy after LVAD implantation.Material and Methods: This is a retrospective single center analysis of a case series on prospectively collected data. From February 2012 to April 2021, 192 patients have been implanted with an LVAD. All the patients were managed with optimal medical and surgical therapy. One-hundred-seven patients were treated with additional KPN as adjuvant therapy against and in prevention of acute RVF (KPN-Group), defined according to International Society Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) guidelines. The remaining 85 patients, managed without KPN, constituted our control group (No-KPN-Group).Results: In KPN-Group acute-RVF occurred in 31 patients (29%), while causing death in 14 patients (13%). In the No-KPN-Group acute-RVF was observed in 32 patients (37.6%), while causing death in 20 patients (23.5%). According to echocardiographic and hemodynamic results, the majority of KPN-Group patients responded with RV function improvement (range 4-60% of TAPSE increase, p<0.05) with recovery of RV function in 85% of the patients (91/107). In No-KPN-Group RV functional recovery was observed in 65 patients (76.4%). Overall intra-hospital mortality was 23.4% (25) and 27.1% (23) in KPN-Group and No-KPN-Group, respectively (p=0.337). While Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay was comparable (p=0.078), ward-stay was significantly shorter in KPN-Group (p=0.03).Conclusion: KPN was well tolerated. A complete recovery of the RV function was achieved in the majority of the patients and results lasted beyond the duration of KPN. Future research to understand the underlying mechanism, and identification of suitable patients and treatment duration is necessary.
Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of a Mobile-Based Education and Self-Care Application for Covid-19 Disease: A Study Protocol
Authors: Heydari Mohammad , Nasiri Khadijeh , Mohammadi Elahe , Mehraeen Esmaeil , Haghighat Neda , aghamohammadi vahideh
Published: August 2021

Background: With an emphasis on implementing self-care protocols to control and manage coronavirus disease and its widespread prevalence as well as high transmission rate along with deficiencies in the health system, the use of technologies to implement care protocols, disease management, and control is undeniable. Therefore, the present study has been conducted aimed to design, implement and evaluate mobile-based self-care educational software for patients with Covid-19 in order to provide self-care protocols in an interactive environment for better disease control and management.Methods: The present study is applied and developmental that has been conducted in 2021in order to design, implement and evaluate mobile-based self-care training software for Covid-19.This study will be conducted at four stages.The fourth stage will be the open-label, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial and evaluation stage of software, in which the patients with Covid-19 who are required to self-quarantine at home and follow self-care protocols. The proposed clinical trial will be held at the medical centers in Ardabil and Khalkhal cites, for 4 weeks to assess the efficacy of mobile-based self-care educational software for patients with Covid-19 for better disease control.Conclusion: It is expected that the use that 4 weeks use of the application will improve measures of investigation.Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20210509051231N1. Registered on23 June 2021, https://www.irct.ir/user/trial/56352/view.
Cardiac-chamber-specific Fingerprints in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. Early Detection of Pathological Conditions by FTIR and Raman Spectroscopic Techniques
Authors: Tombolesi Niki , Altara Raffaele , Silva Gustavo J.J. , Tannous Cynthia , Zouein Fouad A. , Stensløkken Kåre-Olav , Morresi Assunta , Paolantoni Marco , Booz George W. , Cataliotti Alessandro , Sassi Paola
Published: August 2021

Background The pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a matter of investigation and its diagnosis remains challenging. Although the mechanisms that are responsible for the development of HFpEF are not fully understood, it is well known that nearly 80% of patients with HFpEF have concomitant hypertension.Methods We investigated whether early biochemical alterations were detectable during HFpEF progression in salt-induced hypertensive rats, using Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopic techniques as a new diagnostic approach. Results Greater protein content and, specifically, greater collagen deposition were observed in the left atrium and right ventricle of hypertensive rats, together with altered metabolism of myocytes. Additionally, Raman spectra indicated a conformational change, or different degree of phosphorylation/methylation, in tyrosine-rich proteins. A correlation was found between tyrosine content and cardiac fibrosis of both right and left ventricles. Microcalcifications were detected in the left and right atria of control animals, with a progressive augmentation from six to 22 weeks. A further increase occurred in the left ventricle and right atrium of 22-week salt-fed animals, and a positive correlation was shown between the mineral deposits and the cardiac size of the left ventricle. Conclusions Overall, FTIR and Raman techniques proved to be sensitive to early biochemical changes in HFpEF and preceded clinical humoral and imaging markers.
Forecasting Factor of Safety of Slopes Stability Using Several Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Mahmoodzadeh Arsalan , Mohammadi Mokhtar
Published: August 2021

Because of the disasters associated with slope failure, the analysis and forecasting of slope stability for geotechnical engineers are crucial. In this work, in order to forecast the factor of safety (FOS) of the slopes, six machine learning (ML) techniques of Gaussian process regression (GPR), support vector regression (SVR), decision trees (DT), long-short term memory (LSTM), deep neural networks (DNN), and K-nearest neighbors (KNN) were performed. A total of 327 slope cases in Iran with various geometric and shear strength parameters analyzed by PLAXIS software to evaluate their FOS, were employed in the models. The K-fold (K=5) cross-validation (CV) method was applied to evaluate the performance of models’ prediction. Finally, all the models produced acceptable results and almost close to each other. However, the GPR model with R2 = 0.8139, RMSE = 0.160893, and MAPE = 7.209772%, was the most accurate model to predict slope stability. Also, the backward selection method was applied to evaluate the contribution of each parameter in the prediction problem. The results showed that all the features considered in this study have significant contributions to slope stability. However, features φ (friction angle) and γ (unit weight) were the most effective and least effective parameters on slope stability, respectively.
Transversely Isotropic Creep Characteristics and Damage Mechanism of Layered Phyllite Under Uniaxial Compression Creep Test
Authors: Zhang Jiabing , Zhang Xiaohu , Huang Zhen , Fu Helin
Published: August 2021

The layered surrounding rocks of deep tunnels undergo large creep deformation due to the presence of planes of weakness and the presence of prolonged high in-situ stress, thereby the deformation severely endangers the safety of tunnels. This study conducts uniaxial compression creep tests to experimentally investigate the transversely isotropic creep characteristics and the damage mechanism of layered phyllite samples having bedding angles of 0°, 22.5°, 45°, 67.5°, and 90°. The results indicate that the creep deformation of the specimens takes place in four stages: the instantaneous elastic deformation stage, the deceleration creep stage, the steady-state creep stage, and the accelerated creep stage. The cumulative creep deformation and the creep time during the steady-state creep stage of the specimens initially decrease and then increase as the bedding angle changes from 0° to 90°, thereby, corresponding to the initial increase and subsequent decrease in creep rate during the deceleration creep stage. Based on the existing viscoelastic-plastic damage creep model, the creep parameters E1, E2, η2, and η3 are observed to initially decrease and then increase with the increase in bedding angle, hence demonstrating that the creep characteristics and damage mechanism of the layered rock mass are controlled by the effect of the natural weakness planes and show significant transversely isotropic characteristics.
Comparison of Continuous and Pulsed Wave Lasers in Keyhole Welding of Stainless-Steel to Aluminium
Authors: Coroado Julio , Ganguly Supriyo , Williams Stewart , Suder Wojciech , Meco Sonia , Pardal Goncalo
Published: August 2021

A continuous wave (CW) and a nanosecond pulsed wave (PW) lasers were used to join 1 mm thick sheets of SS304L (SS) austenitic stainless-steel to AA5251 (Al) aluminium alloy in an overlap joint configuration. The weld shape (penetration depth and width), intermetallic compounds concentration, weld quality (cracking and porosity) and mechanical strength were correlated with the process energy and compared between each laser temporal mode. Successful CW joints were produced with the SS sheet on top of the Al, but the opposite configuration revealed to be impossible for the range of parameters tested. The PW joints were successful with the Al sheet on top of SS, but all the joints cracked at the interface when the opposite configuration was used. The mechanical tests showed that even though it is possible to achieve higher tensile shear load in CW welds due to the larger bonding area, the load per unit of weld length revealed to be almost 5x higher for PW welds at similar applied energy.
Terahertz Radiation Generation Process In The Medium Based On The Array of The Elongated Nanoparticles
Authors: Sadykov Nail , Pilipenko Irina Alekseevna , Jolnirov Semyon Evgenievich
Published: August 2021

We conduct a theoretical study and numerical simulations of terahertz radiation generation in the medium based on armchair-edge nanoribbons and zigzag nanotubes with metallic conductivity. The multicascade mechanism of radiation generation is considered in the task of terahertz radiation generation. The level of the injection current in nanoparticle arrays has been estimated. The task expands to the similar medium where radiation current is generated with the use of infrared radiation stimulated absorption, for example, radiation of a CO2 laser. Numerical results for the effective dielectric function have been obtained with the use of the effective medium-approximation, the Maxwell-Garnett’s theory and the Maxwell-Garnett model with the Clausius-Mossotti correction (geometrical model arrays).
Metastatic Gastroesophageal Cancer in Older Patients – Is this Patient Cohort Represented in Clinical Trials?
Authors: Hennessy Maeve A. , Hamid Munzir , Keegan Niamh , Corrigan Lynda , Goggin Caitriona , MyoOo Nay , Carrigan Marie , Mockler David , O'Donovan Anita , Horgan Anne M
Published: August 2021

Background: Older patients are underrepresented in the clinical trials that determine the standards of care for oncological treatment. We conducted a review to identify whether there have been age-restrictive inclusion criteria in clinical trials over the last twenty five years, focusing on patients with metastatic gastroesophageal cancer. Methods: A search strategy was developed encompassing Embase, PubMed and The Cochrane Library databases. Completed phase III randomised controlled trials evaluating systemic anti-cancer therapies in metastatic gastroesophageal malignancies from1st January 1995 to 18th November 2020 were identified. These werescreened for eligibility using reference management software (Covidence; Veritas Health Innovation Ltd). Data including age inclusion/exclusion criteria and median age of participants were recorded. The percentage of patients≥65 enrolled was collected where available.The change over time in the proportion of studies using an upper age exclusion was estimated using a linear probability model.Results: 363 phase III studies were identified and screened, with 66 trials remaining for final analysis. The majority of trials were Asian (48%; n = 32) and predominantly evaluated gastric malignancies, (86%; n = 56).The median age of participants was 62 (range 18-94). Thirty-two percent (n = 21) of studies specified an upper age limit for inclusion and over half of these were Asian studies. The median age of exclusion was 75 (range 65-80). All studies prior to 2003 used an upper age exclusion (n = 12); whereas only 9 that started in 2003 or later did (17%). Among later studies, there was a very modest downward yearly-trend in the proportion of studies using an upper age exclusion (-0.02 per year; 95%CI -0.05 to 0.01; p = 0.31). Fifty-two percent (n = 34) of studies specified the proportion of their study population who were ≥65 years. Older patients represented only 36% of the trial populations in these studies (range 7-60%).Conclusions: Recent years have seen improvements in clinical trial protocols, with many no longer specifying restrictive age criteria. Reasons for poor representation of older patients are complex and ongoing efforts are needed to broaden eligibility criteria and prioritise the inclusion of older adults in clinical trials.
Bilateral Multiple Pulmonary Sclerosing Pneumocytomain A Young Male: Case Report
Authors: Li Xianshuai , He Shuqian , chen xianguo
Published: August 2021

Background: Pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma (PSP) is a relatively rare benign tumor, and multiple pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytomas are even rarer. PSP is usually seen in adults over 50 years old, featuring a female to male ratio of 5:1. We report an extremely rare case of a 20-year-old male patient with bilateral multiple pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma. This rare benign disease also presents diagnostic challenges throughout the treatment process.Case presentation: A 20-year-old male was diagnosed with bilateral multiple pulmonary nodules on chest CT. The patient underwent regular chest CT reexamination over the course of six months, which indicated a tendency of slow enlargement of pulmonary nodules. After complete examination and exclusion of tumors in other parts of the body, he underwent two separate surgeries, and bilateral multiple nodules were removed. Intraoperative frozen section analysis suggested that some nodules were adenocarcinoma and the remaining nodules were considered benign tumors. Postoperative immunohistochemistry indicated that all nodules were pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytomas. Conclusions: Bilateral multiple pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma are rare in young men. In clinical practice, the differentiation of this disease from malignancy is challenging, and surgical treatment is a safe option for pulmonary nodules with a tendency to become larger.
Low-Grade Chondrosarcomas: Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Erdogan Ozgur , demiröz serdar , kaya emre , altun güray , gürkan volkan
Published: August 2021

Background: Multiple parameters are needed to distinguish between enchondroma and low-grade chondrosarcoma (LGCS). This study aimed to investigate the diagnosis, surgery type according to bone type, recurrence rates, and complications of LGCS in the appendicular and axial skeletons. Methods: A total of 52 surgically treated patients with LGCS, between March 2007 and May 2019, were retrospectively examined. Following diagnosis, the patients were operated on with intralesional curettage for long bones or wide local excision (WLE) for axial bones. The retrieved data included demographics, tumor location, surgical treatment type, local adjuvants, complications, and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores.Results: The final cohort included 52 patients (52 tumors; 35 female and 17 male). The male:female ratio was 1:2. The mean age was 44 ± 17 years. Forty of the tumors were treated with intralesional procedures (all with a high-speed burr and phenol), 6 with autograft, 8 with allograft, and 28 with cement augmentation, while 7 were treated with WLE.Conclusions: The use of phenol as an adjuvant may reduce recurrence rates. Using a putty graft alone may result in nonunion. Applying a thin layer of putty on the cementum can create callus tissue on the cementum. Even in the upper limb, plate and screw fixation should be used to prevent fractures in metaphyseal–diaphyseal curettages.
Sestrin2 reduces the cancer stemness via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling in colorectal cancer
Authors: Wei Jinlai , zheng xiangru , Li Wenjun , Li Xiaoli , Fu Zhongxue
Published: August 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in both men and women in China. In previous studies, Sestrin2 was demonstrated to have functions in CRC. However, the relationship between Sestrin2 and cancer stemness has not been reported. To investigate the contribution of Sestrin2 in CRC, we performed bioinformatics analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas datasets and found that Sestrin2 was downregulated in CRC. Using a lentivirus vector, we verified that Sestrin2 suppressed CRC cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation. Furthermore, sphere formation, flow cytometry, quantitative PCR, and Western blot analysis verified the effect of Sestrin2 on the cancer stem ness, including the expression of cluster of differentiation 44, octamer-binding transcription factor 4, sex-determining region Y-box 2, CXC chemokine receptor 4, and the Wnt pathway downstream factors β-catenin and c-Myc. Consistently, the Wnt pathway activator BML-284 partially rescued the effects of Sestrin2 on the expression of proteins related to the cancer stemness. Furthermore, in a mouse xenoplant model, tumors with Sestrin2 were significantly reduced in size with corresponding changes in the cancer stemness. Collectively, our results suggest that Sestrin2 inhibits CRC cell progression by downregulating the Wnt signaling pathway. Thus, Sestrin2 may be a promising therapeutic target for CRC.