bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Perendaman Asam Nitrat pada Pemrosesan Nasi Instan untuk Menurunkan Indeks Glikemik
Authors: Waluyo Joko , Prasetyaningsih Yusi , Ariyani Fenny Tri , Sari Ida Maya
Published: February 2021

Abstrak. Nasi merupakan makanan utama bagi kebanyakan orang di Indonesia. Memasak nasi membutuhkan waktu sekitar 40-50 menit. Nasi instan merupakan solusi untuk menanak nasi dalam waktu yang relatif singkat melalui proses precooking dan pengeringan. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah membuat nasi instan dengan indeks glikemik rendah agar dapat dikonsumsi oleh penderita diabetes melitus. Cara pembuatan nasi instan ini adalah dengan cara merendam - memasak - membekukan - mengeringkannya. Beras direndam menggunakan larutan Na-sitrat 2 - 7% pada suhu 50°C, selama 2 jam. Perbandingan beras dengan larutan perendaman adalah 1: 2. Nasi yang sudah dimasak dibekukan di dalam freezer pada suhu -4°C selama 24 jam. Beras yang telah dicairkan dengan proses thawing menggunakan air hangat pada suhu 60°C. Beras kemudian dipanaskan pada suhu 70°C selama 4-5 jam. Nasi instan siap diseduh (dihidrasi kembali) menggunakan air mendidih. Waktu rehidrasi beras instan mencapai 5,49 menit. Hasil pengujian indeks glikemik menunjukkan nilai indeks glikemik instan sebesar 51,69 dengan kandungan nutrisi yang tidak berubah secara signifikan seperti beras asli. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pembuatan nasi instan dengan perendaman-masak beku-kering dapat menurunkan indeks glikemik.

 

Abstract. Rice is the main food for most people in Indonesia. Cooking rice takes about 40-50 minutes. Instant rice is a solution for cooking rice in a relatively short time through a process of precooking and drying. The purpose of this study is to make instant rice with a low glycemic index so that it can be consumed by people with diabetes mellitus. The method used in making this instant rice is soak - cook - freeze - dry it. The rice is soaked using 2 - 7% Na-citrate solution at 50°C, for 2 hours. The ratio of rice with a soaking solution is 1: 2. Rice is needed up to pH 7 then accepted using ricecookerz. Cooked rice is frozen in the freezer at -4°C for 24 hours. Rice which has been liquefied by thawing process uses warm water at 60°C. Rice is then heated at 70°C for 4-5 hours. Instant rice is ready to be brewed (rehydrated) using boiling water. Instant rice rehydration time reaches 5.49 minutes. The glycemic index test results showed an instant glycemic index value of 51.69 with a nutrient content that did not change significantly like the original rice. The results show that making instant rice vy soaking-cookingfreezing -drying can reduce the glycemic index.

 

Keywords: quick cooking rice, rehydration time, glycemic index
Silent monster inside the ear! Understanding the level of awareness about Cholesteatoma in hospital visitors of Puducherry.
Authors: Rajagopal Mariappan , Bhat Poornima S , Kaliavaradan Santhanakrishnan , Surendran Pravin , Muruganidhi Nisha
Published: February 2021

Aims: With the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in most centres postponing the non-emergency services, there is a potential risk of under reporting of uncomplicated cholesteatoma cases, due to lack of symptoms and awareness. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge about CSOM, especially cholesteatoma and related harmful practices among general population. Methods: All consenting adult hospital visitors, irrespective of their purpose of visit were invited to participate in this questionnaire based, cross sectional study at the preregistration point of the tertiary care teaching hospital. Data was collected and analyzed using appropriate methods. Results: Among 350 respondents, majority exhibited poor level of knowledge about general perceptions about ear infections [295(84.3%)], perceptions about cholesteatoma[246(70.3%)]; knowledge about intratemporal complications[244(69.7%)]; knowledge about intracranial complications[247(70.6%)] and harmful practices in ear disease patients[279(79.7%)].Multivariate analysis of socio-demographic and ear disease history related characteristics with overall ear disease related knowledge has shown that unskilled workers and unemployed respondents have poor knowledge levels compared to their counterparts, but at the same time the study has found that respondents with higher level of education also exhibited poor levels of knowledge in contrary to the existing evidence. Conclusion: This study highlights the lack of awareness about CSOM, especially cholesteatoma and its complications, harmful practices mainly in rural population, even in well educated groups, and the need for health education measures to create awareness among the general population regarding various areas ofconcern, to prevent a potential increase in the incidence of complications, especially during and post COVID-19 pandemic.
T-cell receptor engineering of primary NK-cells to therapeutically target tumours and tumour immune evasion
Authors: Morton Laura , Wachsmann Tassilo , Wouters Anne , Meeuwsen Miranda , Remst Dennis , Loenen Marleen van , Falkenburg J.H. Frederik , Heemskerk Mirjam
Published: February 2021

TCR-engineered cells can be powerful tools in the treatment of malignancies. However tumor-resistance by HLA-class I downregulation can negatively-impact the success of any TCR-mediated cell therapy. Allogeneic NK-cells have demonstrated efficacy and safety against malignancies without inducing GvHD highlighting the feasibility for an “off the shelf” cellular therapeutic. Furthermore, primary NK-cells, sourced from the peripheral blood or umbilical-cord blood, can target tumours using a broad array of intrinsic activation mechanisms. Here, we developed a unique NK:TCR cell therapy from peripheral blood derived NK-cells, which enhances NK-efficacy against tumours through additional TCR-mediated lysis. Upon loss of HLA-class I, NK:TCR will lyse the resistant tumour cells in an NK-mediated manner. Our NK:TCR technology is the first cellular therapy which incorporates TCR-based targeting of tumours and the associated TCR immune-evasion.
Decrease in Choroidal Blood Flow After Half and One-Third Dose Verteporfin Photodynamic Therapy For Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: kumashiro shun , takagi seiji , itokawa takashi , tajima akiko , kobayashi tatsuhiko , hori yuichi
Published: February 2021

Background: The effect of various reduced doses of verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) on choroidal blood flow in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate choroidal blood flow after half-dose PDT (1/2PDT) and one-third dose PDT (1/3PDT) with verteporfin for chronic CSC using laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.Methods: Twenty-seven eyes of 27 patients with serous retinal detachment (SRD) caused by chronic CSC for more than 6 months were included in this study. Patients were divided into the 1/2PDT (n=12; January 2018 to July 2019) and 1/3PDT (n=15; August 2016 to December 2017) groups based on the treatment period. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), central choroidal thickness (CCT), and mean blur rate in the macular area (m-MBR) and optic nerve head (ONH-MBR) were obtained using LSFG and evaluated at baseline (pre-treatment), and 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment.Results: SRD disappeared after one month in 92% and 93% eyes in the 1/2PDT and 1/3PDT groups, respectively. Recurrence of SRD was observed in one eye at the 6-month follow-up after 1/2PDT and 2 eyes at the 3-month follow-up after 1/3PDT. No significant improvement was observed in baseline BCVA in the 1/3PDT and 1/2PDT groups. The average m-MBR against baseline significantly decreased at 2 weeks, 1, 3 and 6 months in the 1/2PDT group. the average m-MBR against baseline decreased significantly only at the 2 week follow-u- in the 1/3PDT group. The average rate of change in the CCT against baseline decreased significantly throughout 6 months in the 1/2PDT group and for up to 3 months in the 1/3PDT group. No significant fluctuation was observed in the ONH-MBR.Conclusions: PDT significantly affected choroidal blood flow depending on the verteporfin dose in chronic CSC.Trial Registration: This trial was retrospectively registered (UMIN000026850; Approval date 03/04/2017).
Analysis of Medical Seeking Behavior and Influencing Factors in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Dai Zhongshang , Ma Yiming , Zhan Zijie , Chen Yan , Chen Ping
Published: February 2021

Purpose: To explore the status of medical seeking behavior in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and clarify relevant factors that may affect the diagnosis delay. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a Chinese tertiary hospital from July 2019 to February 2020. A total of 408 eligible outpatient COPD patients were recruited and relevant data were collected in the form of questionnaire. Diagnosis delay was compared among different characteristics using Wilcoxon test and Kruskal-Wallis H test. Correlation analysis were performed to further explore factors related to diagnosis delay. Results: The median (interquartile range [IQR]) duration of diagnosis delay was 230 (50 - 720) days. Proportions of COPD patients who chose tertiary hospitals, secondary hospitals, and first – level hospitals for the first visit were respectively 53.7%, 29.9% and 16.4%. Additionally, proportions of patients who received pulmonary function test for the first visit in tertiary hospitals, secondary hospitals, and first – level hospitals were namely, 83.9%, 15.5%, and 1.5% (p < 0.001). In terms of characteristics related to diagnosis delay, there is a significant difference in residence, resident manner, CAT , mMRC, age, FEV1% predicted, years of education, average family income(p < 0.001). Furthermore, diagnosis delay is correlated with patients’ knowledge level of COPD and other characteristic variables (including age, years of education, resident manner, average family income, CAT , mMRC, FEV1% predicted, and FEV1/FVC) to varying degrees. Conclusion: Our study indicates that varying degrees of diagnosis delay may exist in COPD patients. Measures are needed to intervene potential factors related to diagnosis delay.
Pure ICL Implantation: A Novel Ophthalmic Viscosurgical Device-Free Technique
Authors: Qin Qin , Bao Lianyun , He Zifang , Chen Feifei , Zhu Dandan , Gao Ruiying , Zhang Si , Zhang Wenwen , Liu Yajun , Xie Zhenggao
Published: February 2021

Background: To assess the clinical efficiency of a novel ophthalmic viscosurgical device-free (OVD-free) method for intraocular collamer lens (EVO-ICL) implantation in myopic eyes.Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 40 eyes underwent standard ICL implantation, and 40 eyes underwent OVD-free (Pure) ICL implantation. Preoperative and postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCVA), equivalent spherical degree (SE), intraocular pressure (IOP), visual quality index, subjective visual quality scale, corneal endothelial cell density (ECD), operation time, and complications were compared between and within the standard and pure ICL implantation groups. Results: Increased IOP > 22 mmHg 2 h after surgery was noted in 19 eyes (47.5%) in the standard group, but not in the pure group (0%, P < 0.001). Increased IOP relative to baseline was significantly higher at 2 h and 1 day after surgery for the standard group compared with the pure group (P < 0.001). LogMAR UDVA and LogMAR BCVA were significantly improved in the pure group compared with those in the standard group 1 day (P < 0.001) and 1 week (P < 0.001) after implantation, but not after 3 months (P = 0.747 and P = 1.000, respectively). SE was significantly lower in the pure group than in the standard group 1 day after implantation (P = 0.003). No significant differences in SE were observed at any time point between groups (P = 0.285, P = 0.460). Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) II visual quality indicators, such as the modulation transfer function cut-off frequency (MTF cut-off), Strehl ratio (SR), and OQAS under different contrast values [OQAS values (OVs) 20], were significantly better in the pure group than in the standard group 1 day after implantation (P = 0.013, P = 0.009, and P = 0.004, respectively). SR, OV20%, and OV9% were significantly better in the pure group than in the standard group 1 week after implantation (P = 0.003, P = 0.047, and P = 0.002, respectively). No significant difference in ECD changes within or between groups was observed (P > 0.05). The operation time for the pure group (2.897 ± 0.346 min) was significantly shorter than that for the standard group (4.444 ± 0.656 min; P < 0.001). No complications were reported for either group during the observation period, except early IOP elevation in the standard group.Conclusions: The pure ICL implantation method was associated with faster visual acuity recovery, a shorter operation time, and more stable intraocular pressure. Pure ICL represents a safe and convenient method for ICL implantation compared with the standard method, completely eliminating OVD-related complications without causing additional complications.
Propofol Mediates Pancreatic Cancer Cell Activity Through the Repression of ADAM8 via SP1
Authors: Gao Yutong , Zhou Yu , Wang Chunlin , Sample Klarke , Yu Xiangdi , Ben-David Yaacov
Published: February 2021

Background

Propofol is a commonly used anesthetic with controversial effects on cancer cells. A growing number of studies have demonstrated that low concentrations of propofol are associated with tumor suppression and when used as an intravenous anesthesia improved recurrence-free survival rates for many cancers, but deeper insights into its underlying mechanism are needed.
Methods

The study detailed herein focuses upon the effect of propofol on pancreatic cancer cells and the mechanism by which propofol reduces ADAM8 expression. The ability of propofol to impact the proliferation, migration and cell cycle of a pancreatic cancer cell line was assessed in vitro. This was mechanistically explored following the identification of SP1 binding sites within ADAM8, which enabled the regulatory effects of SP1 on ADAM8 following propofol treatment to be further explored.
Results

This study was able to show that propofol significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells and decreased the percentage of cells in S-phase. Propofol treatment was also shown to repress ADAM8 and SP1 expression, but was unable to affect ADAM8 expression following knockdown of SP1. Moreover, a direct physical interaction between SP1 and ADAM8 was verified using Co-immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays.
Conclusion

These results suggest that propofol represses pathological biological behaviors associated with pancreatic cancer cells through the suppression of SP1, which in turn results in lower ADAM8 mRNA expression and protein levels.
Decreased Ferroportin in Hepatocytes Promotes Macrophages Polarize Towards an M2-Like Phenotype and Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Cai Chengyuan , Zeng Danning , Gao Qing , Ma Lei , Zeng Bohang , Zhou Yi , Wang He
Published: February 2021

Iron release from macrophages is closely regulated by the interaction of hepcidin, a peptide hormone produced by hepatocytes, with the macrophage iron exporter ferroportin (FPN1). However, the functions of FPN1 in hepatocyte secretion and macrophage polarization remain unknown. CD68 immunohistochemical staining and double immunofluorescence staining for F4/80 and Ki67 in transgenic mouse livers showed that the number of macrophages in FPN1−/+ and FPN1−/− mouse livers was significantly increased compared to that in WT (FPN+/+) mice. FPN1 downregulation in hepatic cells increased the levels of the M2 markers CD206, TGF- β, VEGF, MMP-9, Laminin, Collagen, IL-4 and IL-10. Furthermore, the expression of CD16/32 and iNOS, as M1 markers, exhibited the opposite trend. Meanwhile, α-SMA immunohistochemistry and Sirius red staining showed that the trend of liver fibrosis in FPN1−/− mice was more significant than that in control mice. Similarly, in vitro FPN1 knockdown in L02-Sh/L02-SCR liver cell lines yielded similar results. Taken together, we demonstrated that downregulated FPN1 expression in hepatocytes can promote the proliferation and polarization of macrophages, leading to hepatic fibrosis. Above all, the FPN1 axis might provide a potential target for hepatic fibrosis.
Investigation of the Species Distribution of Tissue Invasive Klebsiella Pneumoniae Complex in A New York Hospital System Using Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Bohrhunter Jessica , Taffner Samantha , Wang Jun , Hardy Dwight , Pecora Nicole
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND: Current research indicates that Klebsiella pneumoniae is a complex of closely related organisms (K. pneumoniae sensu stricto, K. quasipneumoniae, K. variicola, K. quasivariicola, and K. africana). There is a paucity of research into the distribution of K. pneumoniae complex members in clinical specimens and the pathogenic potential of complex members other than K. pneumoniae sensu stricto.METHODS: To assess the rates and characteristics of different K. pneumoniae complex members in our 886 bed tertiary care facility in Rochester, New York, we performed whole genome sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq on all inpatient, sterile-source isolates identified by routine culture work-up as K. pneumoniae from October 2018 - October 2019 (n=35). We additionally sequenced all K. pneumoniae liver isolates available in our collection, spanning 2017-2019 (n=12). Analyses were focused on delineating complex members, detection of antibiotic resistance genes, and gene clusters associated with hypervirulent phenotypes.RESULTS: In the yearlong collection of 35 K. pneumoniae complex isolates, we found that 92.4% were K. pneumoniae sensu stricto (n=32), 5.7% were K. quasipneumoniae (n=2), and 2.9% were K. variicola (n=1). In the liver isolate collection, one additional K. variicola was identified. Both K. quasipneumoniae isolates and one K. variicola isolate were from liver. One K. quasipneumoniae isolate was a phenotypic and genotypic extended spectrum beta-lactamase producer. All other K. quasipneumoniae and K. variicola isolates were resistant only to ampicillin. Five K. pneumoniae sensu stricto isolates were identified which carried genes associated with hypervirulence. No K. quasipneumoniae or K. variicola carried any hypervirulence associated genes.CONCLUSIONS: The rates of K. pneumoniae sensu stricto, K. quasipneumoniae, and K. variicola observed in this study are consistent with those observed internationally and in blood isolates. Interestingly, all of our K. quasipneumoniae isolates were isolated from liver abscesses. Genetic loci associated with hypervirulence appear to be restricted to K. pneumoniae sensu stricto.
Methodological analysis of period fertility in Saudi Arabia 2018
Authors: Mahgoub Ayman
Published: February 2021

Exact measurement and evaluation of indicators of period fertility in a multiracial society could help explaining disparities. This paper represents a methodological and analytical attempt to systematically analyze period fertility and discuss differentials in its level and pattern between domestic and expatriate women in Saudi Arabia as far as available data allow. The data used are obtained from official Sources published by General Authority for Statistics in the Household Health Survey 2018. Estimated period fertility indicators, started from the simplest rates to the more elegant ones with adequate illustration of the advantages and disadvantages of each of them. The purpose was to establish fertility differentials and historical pattern. The paper has consistently shown that the fertility of expatriates in Saudi Arabia is lower than the fertility of the Saudi domestic women, but the reason for the disparity was not established as contraceptive practice has not confirmed sufficient influence. It was also revealed that the fertility transition that had been taking place since early eighties will continue but it will have precautions in the future.
Comparison of the Levels of Cardiac Troponin I in Patients with Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophies to Assess Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Awano Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Tetsushi , Matsuo Masafumi , Iijima Kazumoto
Published: February 2021

Background: Cardiac troponin I (cTnI), uniquely expressed in the myocardium, is a marker for acute myocardial injury. Its clinical significance in Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD and BMD) and its relation to alpha-actinin-3 (ACTN3) genotype as a genetic modifier of cardiomyopathy are still unknown.Methods and Results: Overall, 529 and 131 serum cTnI values of 127 DMD and 47 BMD patients, respectively, were reviewed. cTnI elevation was generally observed in the second decade of life. Both cTnI levels and the proportion of abnormal cTnI levels were significantly higher in DMD patients than in BMD patients (age range: 1< years ≤10 and 10< years ≤18 and 10< years ≤18, respectively). Decreased left ventricular ejection fraction was observed after cTnI elevation in both populations. cTnI levels by age in DMD patients with ACTN3 null genotype tended to increase highly and early.Conclusions: Myocardial injury indicated by cTnI was more common and severe in DMD patients than in BMD patients. cTnI elevation preceding cardiac dysfunction may represent an early phase of cardiomyopathy progression and may be a biomarker for early detection of cardiomyopathy in DMD and BMD patients. The ACTN3 null genotype may be a risk factor for early myocardial injury.
Viral Shedding Time of SARS-CoV-2 and the Factors Involved: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Wu Guixian , Lin Ling , He Susu , Chen Qian , Wu Xiaomai , Yan Shuangquan , Jiang Yongpo , Pan Weijia , Lv Dongqin
Published: February 2021

Background: In December 2019, the discovery of the novel coronavirus was first reported in Wuhan, China, which subsequently and rapidly spread throughout the country and worldwide, resulting in a pandemic.After a year of intense research, our knowledge of the new coronaviruses has gradually improved; however, knowledge regarding the time of their complete clearance from the body and the factors influencing clearance are currently inadequate. Results: We conducted a retrospective observational study comprising 135 patients above the age of 18 years with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia, who were admitted to the Public Health Center of Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University from January 23, 2020, to March 11, 2020. The findings regarding the duration of the infection from the time of onset to the time of being asymptomatic (whichever was observed first) indicated that novel coronaviruses were cleared from the respiratory tract in a maximum of 84 days and a minimum of 1 day with a median clearance time (quartile) of 20 (13, 30) days. Moreover, viruses were cleared from the digestive tract in a maximum of 72 days and a minimum of 5 days with a median clearance time (quartile) of 25 (20.75, 31) days. The viral shedding time of SARS in the digestive tract was found to be longer than that in the respiratory tract (p = 0.03). Severe disease (P < 0.001), advanced age (P < 0.001), lymphopenia (P = 0.01) and elevated CRP (P = 0.036) were significantly associated with longer clearance time in the respiratory tract. Gender (P = 0.754), novel coronavirus antibodies (P = 0.75), and antibiotic use (P = 0.093) were not associated with the time span required for the novel coronavirus to be cleared from the respiratory tract. Conclusions: Independent risk factors for the longer clearance time of novel coronaviruses in the digestive tract versus that in the respiratory tract were compared. Severe disease, advanced age, lymphopenia, and elevated CRP were determined to be factors prolonging the clearance of novel coronaviruses.
Does the Sense of Coherence Predict Health 10 and 20 Years Later? - Results From A Population-Based Longitudinal Study in Germany
Authors: Dziuba Anna , Krell-Roesch Janina , Schmidt Steffen C.E. , Bös Klaus , Woll Alexander
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe sense of coherence (SOC) is reported to influence health, but health may also have an impact on SOC. The objective of this study was to examine the longitudinal associations between SOC and selected self-reported and physician-assessed health outcomes over a period of 10 and 20 years, and to determine the direction of the associations.MethodsWe conducted a population-based, longitudinal study, involving 392 participants (204 males; mean age 43.01 years) who were followed for a median of 10 and 18 years. Analyses of variance were carried out to examine the longitudinal associations between SOC at baseline and health outcomes (i.e., self-rated health status, SHS; physical health status assessed by physician, PHS; self-reported satisfaction with life, SWL) at follow-ups. The direction of associations was examined using a cross-lagged model on correlation coefficients, adjusted for sex and age at baseline.Results There were significant group effects for SOC at baseline on SWL at 10-year (F = 11.91, p < .01, ηp² = .068) and at 20-year follow-up (F = 6.68, p = .002, ηp² = .057). SHS (r = .238, p < .01), PHS (r = -.140, p < .05) and SWL (r = .400, p < .01) predicted SOC at 10-year follow-up stronger than vice versa. The direction of associations between SOC and health parameters at 20-year follow-up was less consistent.ConclusionsThe long-term associations between SOC and self-reported and physician-assessed health may be reciprocal in community-dwelling adults. More research is needed to examine the predictive power of health on SOC and whether interventions targeted at improving health parameters, may impact SOC.
Evaluation Frameworks for Digital Nursing Technologies: Analysis, Assessment, and Guidance
Authors: Krick Tobias
Published: February 2021

Background: The evaluation of digital nursing technologies (DNT) plays a major role in gaining knowledge into certain aspects of a technology such as acceptance, effectiveness, or efficiency. Evaluation frameworks can help to classify the success or failure of a DNT or to further develop the technology. In general, there are many different evaluation frameworks in the literature that provide overviews of a wide variety of aspects, which makes this a highly diverse field and raises the question of how to select a suitable framework. The aim of this article is to provide transparency on existing comprehensive evaluation frameworks that can be applied to the field of DNT and to conduct a detailed analysis and assessment of these frameworks to guide field researchers. Methods: A three components search process was conducted to identify relevant frameworks. (1) A systematic literature search in PubMed; a narrative review (2) and (3) expert consultations. Data related to the frameworks evaluation areas, purpose, perspectives, and success definitions were extracted. Quality criteria were developed in an expert workshop and a strength and weakness assessment was carried out. Results: 18 relevant comprehensive evaluation frameworks for DNT have been identified. 9 overarching evaluation areas, 7 categories of purposes, 5 evaluation perspectives and 3 categories of success definitions could be identified. Eleven quality criteria for the strengths and weaknesses of DNT-related evaluation frameworks were developed and the included frameworks were assessed against them.Conclusion: Evaluators can use the concise information and quality criteria of this article as a starting point to select and apply appropriate DNT evaluation frameworks for their research projects or to assess the quality of an evaluation framework for DNT, as well as a basis for exploring the questions raised in this article. Future research could address gaps and weaknesses in existing evaluation frameworks, which could improve the quality of future DNT evaluations.
Do Acromiohumeral Centre Edge Angle and Greater Tuberosity Angle Correlate With the Full-Thickness Degenerative Supraspinatus Tear?
Authors: Vijittrakarnrung Chaiyanun , Fuangfa Praman , Jaovisidha Suphaneewan , Kijkunasathian Chusak
Published: February 2021

Background: Many radiographic parameters associated with the extrinsic cause of supraspinatus tear have been proposed. The aim of this study was to correlate the relationship between full-thickness degenerative supraspinatus tear (FTDST) and the patient’s radiographic parameters, including the acromiohumeral centre edge angle (ACEA) and the greater tuberosity angle (GTA).Methods: A retrospective study was conducted. We included 116 patients who had undergone shoulder arthroscopic surgery at our institute. The case group included FTDST patients, while the control group also included patients without evidence of supraspinatus tear. In each patient, the ACEA and GTA values were measured and analysed by two independent observers. Intra-inter observer reliability was assessed. Multivariate regression analysis was performed.Results: The ACEA values were significantly higher in FTDST, with a mean of 26.44°± 9.83° compared with 16.81° ± 7.72° in the control group (P < 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis also showed that higher ACEA values were associated with a FTDST (odds ratio 1.16 per degree, P = 0.01). Meanwhile, for GTA values, a statistically significant difference was found with a mean of 70.92° ± 6.64 compared with 67.84° ± 5.56 in the control group (P = 0.02). However, Stepwise regression analysis rejected GTA as a predictor for FTDST.Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that the presence of higher ACEA values is an independent significant risk factor for the presence of FTDST. Consequently, GTA values may be less helpful in assessing the risk of FTDST, especially in this specific population.
Real-space observations of 60-nm skyrmion dynamics in an insulating magnet under low heat flow
Authors: Yu Xiuzhen , Kagawa Fumitaka , Seki Shinichiro , Kubota Masashi , Masell Jan , Yasin Fehmi , Nakajima Kiyomi , Nakamura Masao , Kawasaki Masashi , Nagaosa Naoto , Tokura Yoshinori
Published: February 2021

Thermal-current induced electron and spin dynamics in solids –dubbed “caloritronics” – have generated widespread interest in both fundamental physics and spintronics applications. Here, we examine the dynamics of nanometric topological spin textures, skyrmions, driven by a temperature gradient or heat flow. The heat-flow-drive skyrmion dynamics are evaluated through in-situ real-space observations in an insulating helimagnet Cu2OSeO3. We observe increases of the skyrmion velocity and the Hall angle with increasing T above a critical value of ~ 13 mK/mm, which is two orders of magnitude lower than the T required to drive ferromagnetic domain walls, in agreement with theoretical predictions. A comparable magnitude of T is also observed to move the domain walls between a skyrmion domain and the non-topological conical-spin domain from cold to hot regions. Our results demonstrate the efficient manipulation of skyrmions by temperature gradients, a promising step towards energy-efficient “green” spintronics.
Smart and real time image dehazing on mobile devices
Authors: Cimtay Yucel
Published: February 2021

Haze is one of the common factors that degrades the visual quality of the images and videos. This diminishes contrast and reduces visual efficiency. The ALS (Atmospheric light scattering) model which has two unknowns to be estimated from the scene: atmospheric light and transmission map, is commonly used for dehazing. The process of modelling the atmospheric light scattering is complex and estimation of scattering is time consuming. This condition makes dehazing in real-time difficult. In this work, a new approach is employed for dehazing in real-time which reads the orientation sensor of mobile device and compares the amount of rotation with a pre-specified threshold. The system decides whether to recalculate the atmospheric light or not. When the amount of rotation is little means there are only subtle changes to the scene, it uses the pre-estimated atmospheric light. Therefore, the system does not need to recalculate it at each time instant and this approach accelerates the overall dehazing process. 0.07s fps (frame per second) per frame processing time (~15fps) is handled for 360p imagery. Frame processing time results show that our approach is superior to the state-of-the-art real-time dehazing implementations on mobile operating systems.
Enhancement of Biogas Production from Mixed Organic Substrates Containing Cow Manure and Delignified Spent Coffee Grounds (SCG) by Addition of Effective Microorganism - 4
Authors: Sumantri Indro - , Kusnadi Peter - , Handoyo I. Gelbert Reinaldo , Kumoro Andri Cahyo
Published: February 2021

There have been continuous efforts to find environmentally benign energy to cope steady increase of global energy needs. The spent coffee ground (SCG) is one of agricultural wastes that can be utilized as a raw material to produce biogas. This study aims to produce biogas from mixture of organic substrate containing cow manure and spent coffee ground (SCG) with a C/N ratio of 25:1 with the addition of effective microorganisms-4 (EM-4) to enhance biogas production. The biodegradations were performed in an anaerobic batch digestion (AD) at ambient environment. The variables used of this research were pH (5, 7, and 9) and the loading of EM-4 (6, 9, and 12%). The digestions were run for 60 days and the volumes of biogas produced were measured every two days. The results showed that the addition of EM-4 was able to initiate biogas production earlier, enhance biogas volume, and extend biogas production end time. The best digestion condition for substrate containing cow manure and SCG with a C/N ratio of 25:1 was found to be at pH 9 and EM-4 loading of 9% to obtain 11.28 mL biogas/g COD with enhancement of biogas production of about 100.2 %. The experimental data was fitted really well by the modified Gompertz equation as shown by a high determination coefficient (R2 > 0.95).
WITHDRAWN: Hetero - Gate Oxide Dual Metal Vertical Tunnel FET
Authors: Karmakar Priyanka , Sahu P K
Published: February 2021

A Silicon based Vertical Dual metal Double gate Tunnel FET (Si-VDMDGTFET) has been proposed and simulated in Sentaurus TCAD tool with improved DC and analog/RF characteristics. The vertical In-line tunneling dominates in the proposed device which results in better subthreshold slope (SS). The vertical in-line tunneling tunes the tunneling barrier and eventually controls the ON current. The dual metal gate and the heterogeneous gate stack oxide within the proposed device design gives the mouldability for controlling and improving the DC characteristics such as ON current, OFF current. The analog/RF behaviour of the proposed device has been calculated and compared with conventional lateral Silicon based dual metal double gate Tunnel FET furthermore it is seen that the proposed device outperforms the conventional lateral device.
Biological Fabrication and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Gymnema Sylvestre Potentially Produces Toxicity in Breast Cancer Cells -MCF-7
Authors: Santhoshkumar Murali , Balupillai Agilan , David Ernest
Published: February 2021

To study the biological fabrication and characterization of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Gymnema sylvestre and their toxicity to breast cancer cells MCF-7.In the existing work, ZnO NPs were synthesized using leaf extract of the Indian medicinal plant Gymnema sylvestre and it was characterized by Particle size, Zeta potential, FT-IR, XRD and SEM analyses.This ZnO NPs to have potentially validated anticancer role in breast cancer cells MCF-7 in vitro approach.The plant-based synthesized ZnO NPs were evaluated against the inhibitory role on breast cancer cell lines. We significantly observed that ZnO-NPs induce efficient toxicity of MCF-7 cells by increasing ROS, mitochondrion membrane damage and apoptotic morphological alterations. These results stated that ZnO-NP induces Bax and Caspases and down-regulates Bcl-2 proteins in MCF-7 cells. Thus, the biologically synthesized ZnO NPs were identified as good performance to inhibit breast cancer cell growth even at low concentrations.
Prevalence and factors associated with pelvic organ prolapse among women attending the gynecology outpatient clinic at a tertiary hospital in southwestern Uganda
Authors: TUGUME RODGERS , Lugobe Henry Mark , Kato Paul Kalyebara , Kajabwangu Rogers , Kanyesigye Hamson , Masembe Sezalio , Kayondo Musa
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To determine the prevalence, clinical stage at presentation and factors associated with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) among women attending the gynecology outpatient clinic at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), Uganda.
Methods

We conducted a cross sectional study at the gynecology outpatient clinic of MRRH from September 2019 to January 2020. Multiple logistic regression analysis was done to determine factors associated with pelvic organ prolapse.
Results

Of 338 participants enrolled, the prevalence of POP was 27.5% (n = 93). POP stages were: stage I 11.8% (n = 11), stage II 63.4% (n = 59), stage III 16.1% (n = 15) and stage IV 8.9% (n = 8). Grand-multiparity (aOR 17.1, 95% CI: 1.1–66.6), birth weight more than 3.5kg (aOR 3.7, 95% CI: 1.1–12.6), perineal tears (aOR 6.5, 95% CI: 2.1–20.2), peasant farmer (aOR 6.9, 95% CI: 1.6–29.9) and duration of labour in the first delivery > 24 hours (aOR 5.7, 95% CI: 1.2–29) were significantly associated with POP.
Survival, growth and photochemical efficiency of silver fir seedlings produced with different technologies
Authors: Robakowski Piotr , Pietrzak Tomasz , Kowalkowski Wojciech , Małecki Grzegorz
Published: February 2021

Forest tree seedling production technologies impact reforestation success determined with survival and quality of seedlings. Five Abies alba seedling production technologies were tested: (1) bare-root seedling, three years in the open (3/0); (2) bare-root seedling, two years under a shading net (40 % of full light), a year in the open (2/g); (3) ball root seedling, two years under a shading net (40 %), a year in the open (2/K); (4) bare-root seedling grown in an opening in a Norway spruce stand (3/Pic); (5) bare-root seedling, three years under Scots pine canopy (3/Pin). Silver fir seedlings acclimatized their growth rates to the common growing environment in relation to the seedling production technology used in the nurseries. The height and diameter at root collar were positively correlated with survival. The 3/Pic seedlings manifested the lowest survival and were lower than other seedlings in terms of height and photochemical efficiency. The needle photochemistry of seedlings growing two years in plantation was determined by their earlier acclimation to the nursery light conditions. The production technology determined the ability of A. alba seedlings to acclimatize to the natural environment. Ball root seedlings grown two years in shade and a year in the open (2/K) acclimatized better to the full light environment compared with bare-root seedlings produced in canopy shade, and they are likely more suitable to be planted after clearcutting.
Embryonic trophectoderm secretomics reveals chemotactic migration and intercellular communication of endometrial and circulating MSCs in embryonic implantation
Authors: Calle Alexandra , Toribio-Serrano Víctor , Yáñez-Mó María , Ramírez Miguel Ángel
Published: February 2021

Embryonic implantation is a key step in the establishment of pregnancy. In the present work, we have carried out an in-depth proteomic analysis of the secretome (extracellular vesicles and soluble proteins) of two bovine blastocysts embryonic trophectoderm primary cultures (BBT), confirming different epithelial-mesenchymal transition stages in these cells. BBT-secretomes contain early pregnancy-related proteins and angiogenic proteins both as cargo in EVs and the soluble fraction. We have demonstrated the functional transfer of protein-containing secretome between embryonic trophectoderm and maternal MSC in vitro using two BBT primary cultures and 8 endometrial MSC (eMSC) and 5 peripheral blood MSC (pbMSC) lines. We observed that eMSC and pbMSC chemotax to both the soluble fraction and EVs of the BBT secretome. In addition, in a complementary direction, we found that the pattern of expression of implantation proteins in BBT-EVs changes depending on: i) their epithelial-mesenchymal phenotype; ii) as a result of the uptake of eMSC- or pbMSC-EVs previously stimulated or not with embryonic signals (IFN-τ), and iii) because of stimulation with endometrial cytokines present in the uterine fluid in the peri-implantation period.
Simulation Machining of Hardened Gear Shaping and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Zhonghou , He Zhongyuan
Published: February 2021

Existing simulation processing methods are difficult to obtain the tooth surface that is close to the actual processing. This paper proposes a high-precision simulation processing method for hard tooth surface gearing. Through the establishment of a high-precision cutter and tooth blank geometric model, analysis of the kinematics principle and meshing relationship between the cutter and tooth blank, combined with the functions of rotation, translation and Boolean operation in the 3D software, the high-precision shaping simulation processing of hardened gears is realized. By measuring the normal distance between the standard involute and the gear tooth profile, the tooth surface error analysis is completed. The simulation model is reconstructed, and the models are analyzed by finite element method (FEM) respectively, and the effectiveness of the method in this paper is verified by comparing the analysis results.
Assessing the Relative Role of Climate and Human Activities on Vegetation Cover Changes in the Up-down Stream of Danjiangkou, China
Authors: Liu Hai , Yuan Hongmeng , Zheng Liang , Zhang Yuan
Published: February 2021

Danjiangkou Reservoir is water source of Middle Route Project of the South-to-North Water Diversion (SNWD) Project, research on the dynamic changes in vegetation cover and its influencing factors is of great significance for understanding the ecological environment of the water diversion area and formulating protection measures. In this study, The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was used to analyze the dynamic changes and influencing factors of vegetation in the upstream and downstream of Danjiangkou Dam from 1982 to 2018. The results show that the NDVI shows an upward trend of 0.017 year-1 (P < 0.05), and the significantly increased area is located near the valley upstream of the dam, while the significantly decreased area is mainly distributed in the basin downstream of the dam and around the central city. The comprehensive contributions of climate and human activity factors to NDVI changes were 92.03% and 7.97%, respectively. The human activities in the upstream of the dam are mainly reflected in the ecological measures such as returning farmland to forest; the human activities at the downstream of the dam are mainly reflected in urban expansion, occupation of cultivated land and forest land by construction land.
Use of Intranasal Analgesia in Military Setting: a French Cross Sectional Survey
Authors: MONTAGNON Romain , CUNGI Pierre-Julien , MORAND Gabriel , DESMOTTES Jérôme , PASQUIER Pierre , TRAVERS Stéphane , AIGLE Luc , DUBECQ Christophe
Published: February 2021

Background For military physicians, practice in tactical and austere environments, particularly during deployments, requires optimized pain management. Several recent studies have shown a definite interest in the intranasal (IN) route for analgesia. Few published series show efficacy and variable times of action depending on the drug used (ketamine, sufentanil and fentanyl), with exceptional side effects. The aim of this study is to evaluate the medical practice of the French Military Health Service (FMHS) physicians.Methods We carried out a declarative and multicentric survey from January 15, 2020, to April 14, 2020. The surveyed population was the physicians of the FMHS, 727 working in medical units and 55 in emergency departments (EDs) in France and overseas. Results In all, 259 responses were collected, giving a 33% return rate; 77.6% of physicians reported being familiar with the IN route for analgesia. However, only 18.4% had already used it. Physicians trained in emergency medicine and assigned to highly operational units were more familiar with this route and used it more frequently. The most common drug used was ketamine (51%). Finally, 90% of respondents expressed an interest in training and use of intranasal analgesia. ConclusionsIf a majority of physicians from the FMHS are familiar with IN analgesia, only few use it in practice. Therefore, specific training is suitable to improve this knowledge and homogenize guidelines. Having been the subject of numerous studies in progress in civilian and military medicine, the IN route seems to be a promising solution for remote and austere environments.
A remixed-fermentation technique for the simultaneous bioconversion of corncob C6 and C5 sugars to probiotic Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Ma Xutong , Xu Yong
Published: February 2021

The probiotic strain of Bacillus subtilis presents a promising application potential for the value-added bio-utilization of lignocellulosic carbohydrates. By the combined acidolysis pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis, hemicellulose and cellulose constituents of corncob were efficiently converted respectively into fermentable C5 and C6 sugars, mainly including xylose and glucose. B. subtilis grew well in xylose solution while it was hindered completely in the acidolysis broth because of the bio-toxicity of degraded chemicals derived from corncob. A mixed-fermentation technique was therefore developed and performed to blend the acidolysis broth and enzymatic hydrolysis slurry together, by which C5 and C6 sugar molecules were successfully fermented and efficiently utilized for the growth of B. subtilis cells with a yield of 0.33 g cells/g sugar consumed. A net amount of 186.1 ± 0.9 g of B. subtilis powder was obtained from 1000 g of corncob that could improve the economic benefits of the process to around 5–7 times.
Friction stir processing of austenitic stainless steel cold spray coating deposited on 304L stainless steel substrate: feasibility study
Authors: Perard Thomas , Sova Alexey , Robe Hugo , Robin Vincent , Zedan Yasser , Bocher Philippe , Feulvarch Eric
Published: February 2021

In this work the feasibility test of friction stir processing (FSP) of 1.5 mm thick austenitic stainless steel cold spray coating deposited on 304L stainless steel substrate was performed using tungsten carbide tool. Applied FSP parameters (advance speed 50 mm/min, rotation speed 300 rpm, axial force 20 kN, tilt angle 1.5°) allowed to perform FSP treatment with a higher depth than the coating thickness. As a result, the material mixing at the coating/substrate interface was observed. The microstructure observation revealed that the coating microstructure in the stir zone was significantly modified. EBSD analysis confirmed that full material recrystallization during FSP allowed to formation of dense and uniform fine-grain structure with the mean grain size 1.9 mm. Average coating microhardness was decreased from 406 HV to 299 HV. Further FSP parameters optimization should be carried out in order to improve the process reliability and avoid any coating failure during treatment.