bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collaborative Development of a Shared ESP Troubleshooting Guidelines Document
Authors: Kennedy S. , Babatunde T. , Gaviria F. , Delaloye R. , Waldner L. , Radke C.
Published: September 2023

When an electric submersible pump (ESP) has tripped or is not operating as intended, operators need to quickly assess the underlying factors to determine if any corrective measures can be taken and if the ESP needs to be pulled. To assist, a new Troubleshooting Guidelines Document (TGD) has been collaboratively developed, incorporating the knowledge and experience of several ESP operators with diverse ESP applications and geographies.

The TGD development involved a group of ESP operators agreeing on a logical and easy-to-follow document structure, reviewing and consolidating existing industry resources, and contributing technical knowledge based on the operators’ own experiences and internal practices. The focus was on documenting the knowledge and experience required to ask the right questions during a troubleshooting scenario, which is often stored only in the minds of experienced individuals (sometimes referred to as institutional knowledge). Asking the right questions during troubleshooting can help operators avoid unnecessary well interventions and reduce the time required to bring the system back online.

The TGD is intended to serve as a technical reference for anyone involved in ESP troubleshooting and to provide the end-user with a structured troubleshooting workflow and list of questions to ask and probable solutions. This paper will illustrate the workflow based on two example ESP troubleshooting scenarios. The workflow starts with a set of observations describing the symptoms of the problem and leads to the identification of potential contributing factors, diagnostic checks, and corrective actions. The example scenarios will illustrate the structured workflow for complex troubleshooting situations and highlight some aspects or questions that may often be overlooked. The TGD is intended to compliment, not replace, operator site specific procedures and best practices and provides reminders that only competent and qualified personnel should execute troubleshooting tasks.

The TGD is considered a "living" document, with new experience, tools, technologies, and knowledge being continually added. To the authors’ knowledge, it is the only shared, living ESP troubleshooting document of its kind that contains input from multiple ESP applications and geographies. The troubleshooting procedure outlined in the paper can be used in any ESP application and can provide a structured way for companies to capture and apply their ESP troubleshooting experience.
Cell chirality reversal through tilted balance between polymerization of radial fibers and clockwise-swirling of transverse arcs
Authors: Kwong Hoi Kwan , Lam Miu Ling , Wu Siying , Chung Cho Fan , Chu Lok Ting , Chow Hiu Lam , Hartanto Hogi , Liu Wengang , Chen Ting-Hsuan , Wu Jianpeng , Lim King Hoo , Chow Kwan Ting
Published: September 2023

Cell chirality is an intrinsic property shown as biased cell rotation or orientation. While the righthanded helix of actin is known essential, it is intriguing of how single form of molecular handedness can be manifested into diverse and even mirrored forms of cell chirality. Here, we found that cell nucleus rotates with clockwise (CW) bias with smaller projected area but reverses to anticlockwise (ACW) bias when cell spreading increases. Actin analysis suggests that polymerization of righthanded radial fibers accounts for the ACW bias, while the CW bias is driven by the retrograde flow of CW-swirling transverse arc, which originates from tethered myosin II that simultaneously connect radial fibers and transverse arc. Thus, by tilting the balance between these two classes of actin fibers via cell spreading area or the main factors of actin, i.e., myosin II, α-actinin-1, Tpm4, and mDia2, the single form of actin helix can be unfolded into cell chirality with opposite bias. This finding suggests a mechanistic insight of cell chirality reversal, providing new perspective in mechanobiology and tissue formation.
Comparison of Swallowing Measures to Patient-Reported Dysphagia Symptoms in Head and Neck Cancer Patients.
Authors: Delaney Timothy , McCarroll Liane , Ebersole Barbara , Palladino Olivia , Donocoff Kathleen , Lango Miriam , Liu Jeffrey C.
Published: September 2023

Objective
Compare subjective patient-reported outcome scores on SWAL-QOL and swallowing safety as measured by Penetration-Aspiration Scale on objective swallowing studies Modified Barium Swallow Study and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing in Head and Neck Cancer patients.
Study Design
Retrospective Case Series.
Setting
A single academic center.
Methods
Patients completed a SWAL-QOL survey and an objective swallowing study. On the SWAL-QOL, the seven domains of burden, desire, duration, food selection, fear, mental health, and social role were used in scoring to create a Dysphagia Domain Score. Penetration-aspiration scale was used to represent swallowing safety. A Dysphagia Domain Score with an associated Penetration-Aspiration Score constituted a paired data point. Data on primary tumor site, T-stage, and treatment modality was collected.
Results
A total of 253 paired data points were included in this study. A statistically significant relationship between Penetration-Aspiration Score and Dysphagia Domain Score was observed (p<.05, chi sq). When stratified by tumor site, Penetration-Aspiration Score and Dysphagia Domain Score relationships were significant for oral cavity and larynx subsites. When stratified by T-stage, only T4 tumors had a statistically significant relationship between Penetration-Aspiration Score and Dysphagia Domain Score. Patients were also observed to have less dysphagia symptoms with elevated Penetration-Aspiration Score as they were further removed from treatment.
Conclusion
Understanding how subjective and objective measures of swallowing function overlap will better inform the assessment of HNC patients. Further research should focus on how to incorporate these complementary assessments to better formulate clinical recommendations.
Data Availability Statement
The datasets generated and analyzed during the current study are not publicly available due to Protected Health Information which they contain but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
Tool-pin Profile Effects on Thermal and Material Flow in Friction Stir Butt Welding of AA2219-T87 Plates: A coupled Eulerian model development and study
Authors: Bagadi Ramana Murthy , JAIDI JEEVAN , Atmakur Venugopal Rao , Meshram Suresh Dadulal
Published: September 2023

A three-dimensional coupled model in a Eulerian framework has been developed in COMSOL Multiphysics software and used to study the complex phenomena of thermal and material flow during the Friction Stir Welding (FSW) process. The moving heat source (tool) effect is modeled using a coordinate transformation. The frictional heat as a function of temperature dependent yield strength of AA2219-T87 material, and the deformation energy of plasticized material flow are considered. Further, the plasticized material is modeled as non-Newtonian fluid and a no-slip boundary condition at the workpiece-tool material interfaces is used. The coupled Eulerian model prediction accuracy has been validated against the experimental weldment zones, and found a good agreement in terms of the shape and size. Subsequently, studied the effects of tool-pin profiles (cylindrical and conical) on thermal distribution, material flow, shear strain rates, thermal histories and weldment zones. It is found that the maximum temperatures, material flow velocities and shear strain rates are low with the conical tool-pin in contrast to the cylindrical one, and it is partly attributed to increased mixing of shoulder and pin driven material flow around the rotating tool, which in turn decreased the size of weldment zones. Also, the maximum temperatures, material flow velocities and shear strain rates on advancing side are higher than that of retreating side. Therefore, it is suggested to use the coupled Eulerian model to design the FSW process and tool parameters in a cost effective way in contrast to the tedious experimental route.
A Controlled Randomized Trial with a 12-Week Follow-up Investigating the Effects of Medium-frequency Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Pain, VMO Thickness, and Functionality in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis.
Authors: Moezy Azar , Masoudi Soheila , Nazari Ahmad , Abasi Arezoo
Published: September 2023

Background: One of the major contributors to disability in Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients is weakness in the Quadriceps Femoris muscle. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been used in rehabilitation for patients suffering from muscle weakness. Thus, the purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of NMES and exercise therapy, for improving pain, muscle weakness and function among patients with KOA.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 75 female patients diagnosed with KOA. Participants were divided into three intervention groups: NMES-only, exercise therapy (Exs) alone, and a combination of NMES and exercise (NMES+ Exs). All patients underwent 12 supervised treatment sessions, three times a week. Outcome measures included pain intensity measured by visual analog scale (VAS), knee flexion range of motion (FROM), thigh muscle girth (TG), thickness of the Vastus Medialis Oblique (VMO), timed up and go test (TUG), six-minute walk test (6MWT), and WOMAC scores. Statistical analyses (ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis) methods were done to compare the amounts at the baseline, immediately after treatment and after 12 weeks.
Results: The NMES group exhibited a significant reduction in pain at the 12-week follow-up compared to the other groups(p=0.022). The NMES+ Exs group showed better outcomes in terms of FROM, TG, and VMO thickness post-intervention (p <0.0001, p<0.004, p=0.003, respectively) and at the 12-week follow-up (p <0.0001, p <0.0001, p <0.0001, respectively). Additionally, NMES was superior in improving TUG and 6MWT post-intervention (p <0.0001, p=0.038, respectively) and during the follow-up assessments (p <0.0001, p=0.029, respectively). The NMES+ Exs group achieved better WOMAC stiffness scores at both post-intervention and follow-up evaluations (p <0.0001, p <0.0001, respectively). Furthermore, at the 12-week follow-up, NMES+ Exs group outperformed the others in WOMAC pain and function subscales (p=0.003, p=0.017, respectively), while the NMES group demonstrated better WOMAC total scores compared to the other groups (p=0.007).
Conclusion: The combination of NMES and exercise seems to be an efficient approach for managing KOA, as it enhances knee flexion range and TG, increases VMO thickness, and improves WOMAC scores. On the other hand, NMES alone was found to be effective in improving the physical function of KOA patients.
Trial registration: IRCT20101228005486N7 (06-02-2020).
Codified Racism in Digital Health Platforms A Meta-Analysis of COVID-19 Prediction Algorithms and their Policy Implications
Authors: Hislop Maalana
Published: September 2023

New technologies are changing the way we interact with the world around us, and we tend to use them based on the assumption of their neutrality. This, however, is far from the truth. The blind spots of algorithmic models reflect the goals and ideologies of its developers and the society in which they live, and run the risk of replicating and amplifying human biases. This paper analyzes the harmful racial biases that are present in predictive digital health algorithms and the best way to regulate them. To answer the research questions, a meta-analysis was carried out of prognostic COVID-19 models developed for clinical use within the US using an analytic framework designed to reveal the risk for harmful racial biases. Of the five models observed, all presented with medium risk for bias. Possible policy recommendations for mitigating this bias include establishing national ethics standards, diversifying the AI workforce, investing in transparent data access symptoms, and improving biased measurement tools. While previous attempts to regulate this space have been made, to fully address racial bias in digital health, policymakers must acknowledge the historical systems of oppression that shape us and by extension, our technologies, especially in such a high-risk setting as healthcare.
Experimental and numerical prediction of multiple solid particle erosion during a dry micro-blasting process of dental titanium alloy by angular particles based on representative volume element technique
Authors: Khoddami AmirSajjad , Jahroodi Mohammad Ali Nasiri , Salimi-Majd Davood , Mohammadi Bijan
Published: September 2023

Micro-blasting is a general process for surface treatment of engineering components such as gears, dental implants, and screws. These components are put under solid particle impacts. To attain the acceptable final surface, it is important to present an accurate and fast prediction of erosion rate and other surface damage mechanisms of them under various conditions. To reduce the computational costs, this article aims to present a beneficial 3D model using representative volume element (RVE) technique for the simulation of multiple arbitrary angular solid particle erosion (SPE). This technique is used in finite element (FE) method in comparison with smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) to investigate their capability in SPE modeling. Johnson-Cook constitutive equations are performed to describe the erosive behavior of the titanium alloy. To verify the developed approach, SPE experiments were conducted on Ti-6Al-4V under various values of impact angle and particle velocity. Then, the effects of the impact angle on erosion rates are investigated to identify the critical angle in which the erosion rate is maximum. Moreover, an approximate equation is presented for variations of erosion rate. The article focuses on the erosion effect on the surface of the alloy by investigating SPE mechanisms. The results show the RVE approach, as well as the approximate equation, can predict the wear damage in a good agreement with the empirical data. SPH showed more accurate results in higher velocities, while the FE model is more appropriate in the lower ones. According to the results, the impacting angle of 45̊ is critical.
Custom-made Subperiosteal Implants: A Finite Element Analysis of Monoblock and Dual Implant Systems in Atrophic Maxilla
Authors: Ayhan Mustafa , Cankaya Abdulkadir Burak
Published: September 2023

This study aims to investigate and compare the stress distribution, displacement, and bone loading of monoblock and dual custom-made subperiosteal implant systems in atrophic maxilla using finite element analysis (FEA). A total of 11 patients with insufficient bone tissue for conventional implant treatment were included in the study. Customized subperiosteal implant designs were generated using the 3D average models obtained from patients' computed tomography (CT) scans. Two different models were produced: a monoblock that covered the entire maxillary bone and a dual implant system where two mirror-imaged implants covered the left and right halves of the maxillary bone separately. Eight models were analyzed under a vertical load of 150 newtons, simulating the mastication forces on the dental veneer. We calculated residual stress values formed on the implant models and jawbone models separately. In addition, the highest displacement values formed on the implants and the highest stress values formed on abutment parts were also observed in this study. The results showed that the stresses formed on implants that are under mastication forces were significantly lower than the yield strength of the selected material, indicating that plastic deformation would not occur under static loading. The dual implant geometry demonstrated a substantial reduction in stress compared to the monoblock structure. The highest von Mises stress values for the monoblock implants ranged from 131 MPa to 206 MPa, while those for the dual structure ranged from 124 MPa to 178 MPa. The highest residual stress values on the upper jawbone were observed in the M6 implant model, and the lowest was seen in the M1 and M3 models at 12 MPa. Displacement values under static load showed that loads on the implant would be below 0.21 mm. In addition to stress and displacement, our updated results demonstrated that mono implants provided a more homogeneous load distribution on the upper jaw, resulting in lower residual stresses forming on the bone. This finding suggests that mono implants might be better suited for immediate teeth-loading scenarios due to their ability to better absorb and distribute forces applied to the implant. In conclusion, custom subperiosteal implants are a viable treatment option for patients with insufficient bone tissue for conventional implants. Dual implant systems were found to have lower stress and displacement values compared to monoblock structures, indicating a potential advantage in clinical use. However, mono implants may have benefits in cases of immediate tooth loading due to their ability to absorb and distribute occlusal forces better. Further studies with long-term clinical follow-ups are necessary to confirm these findings and assess the overall success and survival rates of custom-made subperiosteal implants.
Maternal PM2.5 Exposure is associated with Preterm Birth and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, and Mitochondrial OXPHOS Dysfunction in Cord Blood
Authors: You Young-Ah , Park Sunwha , Kwon Eunjin , Kim Ye-Ah , Hur Young Min , Lee Ga In , Kim Soo Min , Song Jeong Min , Kim Man S , Kim Young Ju
Published: September 2023

Maternal exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is associated with adverse pregnancy and neonatal health outcomes. To explore the mechanism, we performed mRNA sequencing of neonatal cord blood. From an ongoing prospective cohort, Air Pollution on Pregnancy Outcome (APPO) study, 454 pregnant women from six centers between January 2021 and June 2022 were recruited. Individual PM2.5 exposure was calculated using a time-weighted average model. In the APPO study, age-matched cord blood samples from the High PM2.5 (˃15 ug/m3; n = 10) and Low PM2.5 (≤ 15 ug/m3; n = 30) groups were randomly selected for mRNA-sequencing. After selecting genes with differential expression in the two groups (p-value < 0.05 and log2 fold change > 1.5), pathway enrichment analysis was performed, and the mitochondrial pathway was analyzed using MitoCarta3.0. The risk of preterm birth (PTB) increased with every 5 µg/m3 increase of PM2.5 in the second trimester (odds ratio 1.391, p = 0.019) after adjusting for confounding variables. The risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increased in the second (odds ratio 1.238, p = 0.041) and third trimester (odds ratio 1.290, p = 0.029), and entire pregnancy (odds ratio 1.295, p = 0.029). The mRNA-sequencing of cord blood showed that genes related to mitochondrial activity (FAM210B, KRT1, FOXO4, TRIM58, and FBXO7) and PTB-related genes (ADIPOR1, YBX1, OPTN, NFkB1, HBG2) were upregulated in the High PM2.5 group. In addition, exposure to high PM2.5 affected mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and proteins in the electron transport chain, a subunit of OXPHOS. These results suggest that exposure to high PM2.5 during pregnancy may increase the risk of PTB and GDM, and dysregulate PTB-related genes. Alterations in mitochondrial OXPHOS by high PM2.5 exposure may occur not only in preterm infants but also in normal newborns. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required.
Smoking Predictor for Covid-19 Severity and Mortality- A Systematic Review Based on Evidence for Clinical Practice
Authors: Martini Santi , Hargono Arief , Artanti Kurnia , Sándor János , Khan Azizuddin , Besral Besral , Khuen Chan , Yi-Li Chung , Nasr Nayla
Published: September 2023

Background
The objective of the study is to review the available data and investigate whether smoking is a risk factor for severe Covid-19, ICU admission, and mortality. Studies have shown conflicting data linking smoking to serious Covid-19 outcomes, necessitating updating knowledge.
Methods
A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases until June 8, 2022. All original articles described the risk of smoking as a predictor for hospitalization and ICU admission among Covid-19 patients, and studies that assessed the association between smoking and Covid-19 severity and/or mortality in a multivariable analysis in a cohort study design were eligible. Outcomes were severity and mortality from Covid-19 infection.
Results
A total of 3085 articles were identified through the systematic search, and 34 deemed eligible were included after consensus. The selected articles were all published between 2020 and 2022. The majority of the studies originated in Asia and the United States. Most of patients were non-smokers. 12 articles were developed for predicting severe Covid-19 infection among tobacco users. However, the results did not examine depending on the smoking classification in most studies, despite the fact that the majority of the studies (n = 22) showed a substantial link between smoking and Covid-19 severity/mortality. Mortality (n = 32), ICU admission (n = 17), severe or hospitalization (n = 11), and mechanical ventilation (n = 10) studies were the outcomes presented. The nomogram study including smoking predictors may be useful for the early detection of Covid-19 patients who will be admitted to the ICU.
Conclusions
Smoking history significantly increased the probability of Covid-19 hospitalization, ICU admission, and mortality in patients. Healthcare professionals must assist smokers in giving up and changing their attitude toward smoking.
Influence of Endodontic Motors on the Behaviour of Root Canal Shaping Instruments: An in Vitro Comparative Study
Authors: VINCENT Marin , REYNETTE Clémentine , GIESS Renaud , DAVRIL Jeanne , Martrette Jean-Marc , Mortier Eric , Balthazard Rémy
Published: September 2023

Aims
The endodontic literature reports a lot of comparative study on endodontic instruments, concerning as well their geometry, instrumental dynamics, material, mechanical behavior or heat treatment. However, to our knowledge, no study has focused on the influence of endodontic motors on the shaping abilities of endodontic instruments. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the influence of the endodontic motors on root canal shaping instruments.
Method
Dual Move (MICRO-MEGA, Besançon, France), Canal Pro CL2i (COLTENE, Alstätten, Suisse), Canal Pro Jeni Motor (COLTENE, Alstätten, Suisse), Ai Motor (WOODPECKER, Guilin, China), Wave One motor (VDW, Postfach, Munich) and Smart A (WOODPECKER, Guilin, China) were pre-clinically compared in continuous rotation and reciprocating motion on a traction/compression bench using resin blocks. Canal shaping in continuous rotation and reciprocating motion were performed with One Curve and One RECI instruments (MICRO-MEGA, Besançon, France), respectively. The penetration/removal forces, making it possible to objectify the cutting effect and screwing effect of the instruments during root canal shaping, were analyzed.
Results
The results showed (i) that endodontic motors influence the mechanical behavior of endodontic instruments, (ii) that the influence of the motors is essentially felt during reciprocating motion and (iii) that the reciprocating angles influence the mechanical behavior of endodontic instruments.
The diagnosis, prevention, treatment and prognosis of subglottic sputum crusts in neonates
Authors: Zheng Yi , Ju Rong , Wei Guoqing , Li Huaying
Published: September 2023

Objective: To investigate the risk factors of subglottic sputum crust formation in neonates in the NICU through flexible bronchoscopy, as well as prevention，treatment measures and prognosis.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 152 neonates in NICU who underwent bronchoscopy during June 2018 to June 2023. The influencing factors of subglottic sputum crustformation were analyzed and The incidence and prognosis of subglottic sputum crustby after improved nursing methods were compared and analyzed.
Results: ① In term of the history of invasive mechanicalventilation and the duration of invasive mechanical ventilation,the incidence of the subglottic sputum crust in the experiment group was higher than that of control group(P＜0.05）. ② After improved nursing methods, the incidence of subglottic sputum crust in the experiment group was lower than that of control group(P＜0.05）. ③ The group with early bronchoscopy after weaning has lower incidence of related complication than the group with late bronchoscopy(P＜0.05).
Conclusion: Invasive mechanical ventilationand the duration of ventilation were the main risk factors for subglottic sputum crust formation. Strengthening humidification and sputum suction outside the tube during invasive mechanical ventilation will effectively prevent the formation of subglottic sputum crusts and reduce the occurrence of dyspnea after weaning. Early treatment after the formation of subglottic sputum crusts will optimize the removal of sputum crusts, avoid the formation of subglottic stenosis.
On the calculation of the pressure drag coefficient of a flat plate using the law of conservation of energy
Authors: Kozynchenko Alexander , Kozynchenko Sergey
Published: September 2023

The article concerns the development of a new physical model for calculating the pressure resistance of a normally oriented thin flat plate moving in an incompressible fluid. The proposed “displacement-inflow” model uses a minimum number of fundamental assumptions (energy conservation law, continuity condition, no viscosity). The main idea is to calculate the increment of the kinetic energy of fluid particles both before and after the plate at each discrete stage of motion. The proposed approach made it possible to estimate separately the contribution of the front and back surfaces of the plate to the total pressure resistance of the plate. Thus, the front side pressure drag coefficient is 1.0, the back side is 0.33 for a linear approximation of the velocity profile (0.20 for a quadratic approximation), so the total drag coefficient is 1.33 (or 1.20), which is very close to published experimental data. The resulting partial drag coefficients for each plate surface can be used to calculate the drag forces and moments acting on the ship's hull. An example of such a calculation is given.
Clinical efficacy of treated chronic hepatitis B patients with low-level viremia
Authors: Gao Yang , Xuan Bibi , Yang Yuling , Cui Yujian , Huang Wenjun , Bi Chunhua
Published: September 2023

Objective To compare the efficacy of switching to nucleos (t) ide analogues and continuing to use nucleos (t) ide analogues in patients with chronic hepatitis B with low-level viremia.
Methods From July 2020 to October 2022, 130 patients with chronic hepatitis B who developed low-level viremia after 48 weeks of nucleos (t) ide analogues were retrospectively included in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, including 59 patients in the changed group and 71 patients in the unchanged group. After propensity score (PSM), 30 patients in the changed group and 30 patients in the unchanged group were retrospectively included. The primary outcome measures were complete virologic response rate (CVR) and HBV DNA load reduction at week 24.Secondary outcome measures were HBsAg clearance rate, HBeAg negative rate and HBeAg seroconversion rate; ALT, AST, TBIL levels; serum phosphorus, creatine kinase, renal function and incidence of liver cirrhotic and cancer.
Results At 24 weeks, the CVR rate was 7 (23.3%) in the unchanged group and 15 (50%) in the changed group , and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The decrease of HBV DNA load (log10 IU/mL) was 0.2 (0.05, 1.04) and 1.08 (0.37.1.36) in the unchanged group and the changed group, respectively, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05).However, there was no significant difference in HBsAg clearance rate, HBeAg negative conversion rate, HBeAg seroconversion rate, ALT, AST, TBIL, eGFR, urine protein, serum phosphorus, creatine kinase and incidence of liver cirrhosis and cancer, between the two groups (P > 0.05).
Conclusion For patients with chronic hepatitis B low-level viremia treated with nucleos (t) ide analogues, CVR rate and HBV DNA load decrease are superior to those without dressing change after nucleos(t) ide analogues replacement.
Multidimensional analysis to elucidate the possible mechanism of bone metastasis in breast cancer
Authors: Yao Kang , Xiaojun Zhu , Tinxiao Zhao , Shiyao Liao , Lichen Ji , Wei Zhang , Yanlei Li , Jinlong Tian , Xiaoyan Ding , Jun Zhang , Qing Bi , Jun Lv
Published: September 2023

Background
Breast cancer (BC) patients tend to suffer from distant metastasis, especially bone metastasis.
Methods
All the analysis based on open-accessed data was performed in R software, dependent on multiple algorithms and packages. The RNA levels of specific genes were detected using quantitative Real-time PCR as a method of detecting the RNA levels. In order to assess the ability of BC cells to proliferate, we utilized the CCK8 test, colony formation and the 5-Ethynyl-20-deoxyuridine assay. BC cells were evaluated for invasion and migration by using Transwell assays and wound healing assays.
Results
In our study, we identified the molecules involved in BC bone metastasis based on the data from multiple BC cohorts. Then, we comprehensively investigated the effect pattern and underlying biological role of these molecules. We found that in the identified molecules, the EMP1, ACKR3, ITGA10, MMP13, COL11A1, and THY1 were significantly correlated with patient prognosis and mainly expressed in CAFs. Therefore, we explored the CAFs in BC microenvironment. Results showed that CAFs could activate multiple carcinogenic pathways and most of these pathways play important role in cancer metastasis. Meanwhile, we noticed the interaction between CAFs and malignant, endothelial and M2 macrophage cells. Moreover, we found that CAFs could induce the remodeling of BC microenvironment and promote the malignant behavior of BC cells. Then, we identified MMP13 for further analysis. It was found that MMP13 can enhance the malignant phenotype of BC cells. Meanwhile, biological enrichment and immune infiltration analysis were conducted to present the effect pattern of MMP13 in BC.
Conclusions
Our result can improve the understanding of researchers on the underlying mechanisms of BC bone metastasis.
Application of ALSO Course in Standardized Training Resident in Obstetric
Authors: Li Zhiyue , Dan Lu
Published: September 2023

Objective To explore the teaching effect of Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) Course in the standardized training resident in obstetric.
Methods 60 residents of obstetrics from January 2021 to December 2022 were randomly divided into two groups, observation group and control group. The experimental group used ALSO teaching method, and the control group used traditional teaching method. The teaching effect was evaluated by theoretical examination, direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) scale and mini clinical evaluation (Mini-CEX) scale.
Results The theoretical achievements of the observation group were significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). The pre-procedural preparation, safe analgesia, technique of procedure, aseptic technique, seeks help when necessary, post-procedural management, communication skills, humanistic care and overall performance score of the DOPS in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). The organization efficiency, humanistic qualities, manipulative skills, clinical judgment, medical interviewing skills and overall clinical competence score of the Mini-CEX in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05).
Conclusions ALSO teaching method has an ideal effect in the standardization training of residents of obstetrics, indicating the prospect of active in-depth research and expanded application.
Adjacent segment infection after posterior lumbar fusion surgery
Authors: Bao Yi , Han Gonghai , Chen Jiayu , Zhou Tiannan , Peng Zhi , Zhong Hui , Lu Sheng , Sun Xianrun
Published: September 2023

Study Design:
Retrospective study.
Objectives:
Adjacent segment infection after posterior lumbar fusion for noninfectious spinal surgery is rare. The incidence, etiology, and treatment of adjacent segment infections are rarely reported, and the objective of this study was to investigate the incidence, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of adjacent segment infection(ASI) in patients undergoing posterior lumbar fusion surgery for noninfectious spinal surgery.
Methods:
This retrospective study included patients who underwent lumbar decompression fusion surgery for the treatment of noninfectious lumbar spine diseases between 2008–2020. Clinical data collected from the First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province included sex, age, comorbidities, visual analog scale (VAS) scores, Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores, and adjacent segment infections (ASIs).
Results:
A total of 6,325 patients undergoing posterior lumbar fusion surgery for noninfectious spinal surgery met the inclusion criteria. Seven patients (0.11%) developed ASIs. Five patients underwent posterior debridement, autologous iliac bone grafting, and prolonged internal fixation. Two patients were cured with combined anti-infectious therapy. Before the operation, the VAS score was 8.57 ± 0.98, the ODI score was 42.86 ± 3.85, the last follow-up VAS score was 2.0 ± 0.82, and the ODI score was 13.29 ± 2.92. At the last follow-up, all patients had an ASI segment that achieved bony fusion, and posterior lumbar fusion surgery for noninfectious lumbar spine diseases was associated with a 0.11% risk of ASI.
Conclusions:
Surgeons should be aware of the risk factors for site infection to be able to avoid its occurrence. Early diagnosis is based on the patient's symptoms, signs, laboratory tests, MRI examination.Timely application of sensitive antibiotics, intervertebral space debridement, autologous iliac bone graft fusion, and prolonged internal fixation are effective treatment measures.
Vernalization affects the germination performance of the wetland endangered species Eleocharis carniolica
Authors: Trotta Giacomo , Ceriani Roberta M. , Casolo Valentino , Bellingardi Jessica , Boscutti Francesco , Vuerich Marco , Petrussa Elisa
Published: September 2023

Eleocharis carniolica W.D.J. Koch (Cyperaceae) is an endangered wetland spike rush mainly threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation. Understanding the germination ecology of this species is essential to perform successful conservation and restoration actions. In this study, we investigated the effect of vernalization (i.e. cold stratification), gibberellic acid (GA3) and chemical scarification on seed germination of E. carniolica from wild populations in northern Italy. The results showed that vernalization (i.e. 8-weeks at 4°C) significantly improved germination probability, speed, and uniformity compared to non-stratified seeds. Gibberellic acid treatment alone or in combination with vernalization did not show a significant improvement in germination. Chemical scarification using sodium hypochlorite increased germination probability, with 8 hours of scarification showing the highest success rate. However, 24-hour scarification had a negative impact on germination. Overall, vernalization was found to be the most effective method to enhance germination in E. carniolica. These findings provide valuable insights into the seed germination ecology of this endangered species, aiding in its exsitu conservation, propagation, and in-situ restoration efforts. Moreover, they have important implications on future germination dynamics of this endangered species, especially with predicted climate change scenarios.
Intercellular Communication Network of CellChat Uncovers Mechanisms of Kidney Fibrosis Based on Single-Cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Lu Yongping , Lei Lei , Luo Maolin , Wu Hong-Wei , Tang Chun , Cui Tian-Jiao , Lin Lian , Zhang Xue-Mei , Sun Wen-Jing , Delic Denis , Klein Thomas , Wang Xiao-Hua , Zhu Ting , Hocher Berthold , Zheng Zhihua
Published: September 2023

Background Anti-renal fibrosis and the postponement of renal function are global challenges in treating chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have opened new avenues for treating diabetic nephropathy. Researchers are currently investigating the potential advantages of SGLT2 inhibitors for non-diabetic CKD. Methods We established a CKD model using 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx) rats and divided them into three groups: placebo-treated sham surgery rats, placebo-treated 5/6 Nx rats, and Empagliflozin (Empa)-treated 5/6 Nx rats. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing on the kidneys of 5/6 Nx rats and used CellChat for quantitative inference and analysis of intercellular communication networks. Results Intercellular analysis revealed that the probability and intensity of universal communications were higher in the kidneys of 5/6 Nx rats treated with placebo than in rats treated with sham surgery and placebo. 5/6 Nx up-regulated MIF and GRN expression in tubular epithelial cells, which were activated by paracrine signaling from M2 macrophages. TGF-β also plays an important role in regulating endothelial, mesangial, and fibroblast cells by inducing the up-regulation of fibrogenic genes. This process promotes collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix deposition by activating the COLLAGEN, FN1, LAMNIN, and THBS pathways. In addition, Empa treatment improves renal morphology in 5/6 Nx rats by inhibiting MIF and GRN expression in tubular epithelial cells and down-regulating the COLLAGEN, FN1, THBS, and LAMNIN pathways associated with kidney fibrosis. Conclusion We identified critical ligand-receptor pairs and signaling pathways involved in CKD fibrosis by leveraging the intercellular communication network of CellChat. Moreover, our findings indicate that Empa can reduce renal fibrosis in CKD by modulating the intercellular communication network and signaling pathways.
A Comparative Study on the Preparation and Evaluation of Solubilizing Systems for Silymarin
Authors: Chen Zhenzhen , Gao Wenhao , Feng Xianquan , Zhou Guizhi , Zhang Minxin , Zeng Lingjun , Hu Xiaomu , Liu Zhihong , Song Hongtao
Published: September 2023

Silymarin (SM) exhibits clinical efficacy in treating liver injuries, cirrhosis, and chronic hepatitis. However, its limited water solubility and low bioavailability hinder its therapeutic potential. The primary objective of this study was to compare the in vitro and in vivo characteristics of the four distinct SM solubilization systems, namely SM solid dispersion (SM-SD), SM phospholipid complex (SM-PC), SM sulfobutyl ether-β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex (SM-SBE-β-CDIC) and SM self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SM-SMEDDS) to provide further insights into their potential for enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of SM. The formation of SM-SD, SM-PC, and SM-SBE-β-CDIC was thoroughly characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD) techniques to analyze the changes in their microscopic structure, molecular structure, and crystalline state. The particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) of SM-SMEDDS were 71.6 ± 1.57 nm, and 0.13 ± 0.03, respectively. The self-emulsifying time of SM-SMEDDS was 3.0 ± 0.3 min. SM-SMEDDS exhibited improved in vitro dissolution rate and demonstrated the highest relative bioavailability compared to pure SM, SM-SD, SM-PC, SM-SBE-β-CDIC, and Legalon®. Consequently, SMEDDS shows promise as a drug delivery system for orally administered SM, offering enhanced solubility and bioavailability.
Prospective role of PAK6 and 14-3-3γ as biomarkers for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Civiero Laura , Giusto Elena , Maistrello Lorenza , Iannotta Lucia , Giusti Veronica , Iovino Ludovica , Bandopadhyay Rina , Antonini Angelo , Bubacco Luigi , Barresi Rita , Plotegher Nicoletta , Greggio Elisa
Published: September 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder mainly distinguished by sporadic aetiology, although a genetic component is also well established. Variants in the LRRK2 gene are associated with both familiar and sporadic forms of the disease. We have previously shown that PAK6 and 14-3-3γ interact with and regulate the activity of LRRK2. In this study, we quantify the total amount of PAK6 and 14-3-3γ both in post-mortem tissue and in plasma samples to explore their potential as novel biomarkers for PD. The amount of PAK6 and 14-3-3γ is significantly different in PD patients compared to healthy subjects; moreover, PAK6 also varies with the presence of the G2019S mutation in the LRRK2 gene. These observations were further confirmed by generalized linear models. We suggest that changes of PAK6 and 14-3-3γ in plasma represent a shared readout for patients affected by sporadic and LRRK2-related PD and they may be added in a broader panel of biomarkers for PD.
The fabrication of polycrystalline diamond micro drill based on Ultrashort pulsed laser
Authors: Huang Shizhan , Jiang Feng , Qiu Tian , Zhang Tao , Wen Qiuling , Wu Xian , Liu Guangda , Shi Xixiang , Zhang Jinxian , Luo Wenjun , Chen Zhenlin
Published: September 2023

High precision micro polycrystalline diamond (PCD) cutting tools with complex geometrical features are difficult to manufacture by traditional processes, which are widely used in the field of aerospace, automotive, electronics, etc. Ultrashort pulse laser (ULPL) with extremely high peak power and short pulse duration is the ideal tool for processing PCD materials. In this study, an industrial picosecond laser source with wavelength of 1064 nm and pulse duration less than 10 picoseconds was used to process PCD micro drills. A graphical user interface (GUI) and a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) modules have been developed. A twist PCD micro drill with a diameter of 0.75 mm was successfully fabricated by picosecond pulsed laser roughing and grinding finishing. Mechanisms of ablation removal and surface integrity generation in picosecond pulsed laser processing of PCD materials were discussed. The results show that PCD micro drills roughed by a picosecond pulsed laser have sharp geometric edges. The thermal damage layer of the PCD material was very small and could be completely removed in the grinding finishing process. Compared to conventional grinding, processing time of the new method is reduced by 48.2%.
The design and psychometric evaluation of a COVID-19 social stigma questionnaire in nurses
Authors: rahmani narges , Roshan FatemehSadat Seyed Nematollah , Nabavian Majedeh , Alipour Hossein
Published: September 2023

Introduction
The patient’s fear of social reactions, the disease stigma, and being a transmission agent is a psychological and social consequence of contracting some diseases, especially infectious ones, in any society. This fear is an important issue that has not been paid attention to due to the heavy attack of the disease on different aspects of society. Therefore, the present study aimed to design and psychometrically evaluate a COVID-19 social stigma questionnaire in nurses.
Methods
This mixed-method study was conducted using a sequential exploratory approach according to the Creswell method in Mazandaran Province (Iran) during 2021-22. The study was performed in three phases: 1) a qualitative phase to explain the key concept, 2) designing the scale items, and 3) an experimental phase with the scale psychometric evaluation. In the first phase, nurses’ experiences regarding the concept of COVID-19 social stigma were evaluated using a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. In this phase, the lived experiences of 12 nurses working at hospitals of Babol University of Medical Sciences were extracted through in-depth interviews with semi-structured questions and analyzed by Van Manen’s method. In the second phase, the designed items of the scale were validated by determining face validity, content validity, and construct validity using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and determining the scale’s reliability through internal consistency and stability.
Results
After the study’s first phase, a pool of questions with 64 initial items was formed. After evaluating face and content validity, the number of items was reduced to 24 cases. An excellent total content validity (S-CVI/Ave) of 0.93 was calculated for the scale. The EFA indicated that three factors accounted for the most variance (52.82%), and four items were excluded in this phase. The KMO statistic and Bartlett’s test of sphericity were calculated at 0.776 and P < 0.001, respectively. The results of Cronbach’s alpha (0.796) and intraclass correlation (0.793) indicated the correlation and internal consistency of the scale.
Conclusion
This scale can help healthcare managers and policymakers apply necessary protective measures by evaluating the social stigma of COVID-19 in nurses and emerging infectious diseases that may occur in the future.
Planning and clarifying a sustainable approach to solve the problem of scheduling the train running in line one of the Tehran Metro in conditions of uncertainty through particle swarm optimization
Authors: jafari Davoud , khalaj mehran , salehi pejman
Published: September 2023

Reliability and punctuality in the traffic supervision of the metro network are amongst the key performance indicators for the evaluation of this industry's efficiency which can lead to the satisfaction of the participants. A common technique to improve the level of reliability and the performance of Metro traffic control systems is to train to receive and dispatch the position, especially in the different periods of designing train timetables, which can be out-of-the-way or lead to a stable level. Therefore, to increase the permanency level of the metro timetables, the operators of the traffic control center in the metro network consider fixed time values as Buffer times between rail events with a high probability of flaws using normal procedures in the timetables. In this respect, the first event of delay in the metro network is the possibility of its spread in all of the lines and its effect that will be realized on all of the entities and the existence of subsequent unlucky consequences that will be prevented. Adding to this, Buffer time in the train schedule in some cases may cause the capacity of the subway network reduced, which could be the basis of traffic effects for eventful lines such as line one of the Tehran Metro. However, the ability of time tables to add fixed times values as a Buffer time between two conflicting events in the metro network can be whispered that in this case, it is necessary to allocate Buffer times with sufficient accuracy and according to the traffic priorities of dispatching and receiving trains. Some important events in Metro passenger activities (such as unexpected dispatches) take place properly and prevent certain incidents. In the current study, the goal of cultivating and improving the stability of train running schedule tables by assigning optimum Buffer s in the network times has been studied utilizing innovative methods. Therefore, resources for allocation optimum time have been modeled via combinatorial optimization algorithms and particle swarm optimization methods. In this algorithm, each Buffer time according to the priority of the events and according to the technical, economic, and operational criteria is shown to one of the existing assignments of the schedule tables which findings and its effects in terms of time units (seconds). In the end, the validity of the offered model that is presented utilizing line one of the Tehran Metro is tested.