bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction and identification of an immortalized rat intestinal smooth muscle cell line
Authors: Chen Huiling , Li Xiaoli , Gao Liping , Zhang Dekui , Han Tiyun
Published: April 2022

Background

Although intestinal smooth muscle cells (ISMCs) play an important role in the remodeling of the intestinal structure, considerably less is known about the molecular mechanisms that mediate the development and growth of ISMCs. A possible reason for this lag is the lack of cell lines that recapitulate ISMCs in vivo.

Methods

In this study, we separated the primary ISMCs from the rat intestinal tract and integrated the Simian Vacuolating virus 40 Large T antigen (SV40 LT) gene into the genome of the primary ISMC to construct an immortalized cell line named ISMC‐Hc.

Key Results

ISMC‐Hc proliferated persistently without any signs of senescence up to 50 passages and without neoplasticity. Analysis of the genome isolated from ISMC‐Hc confirmed that the SV40LT gene recombined in the genome, and mRNA reverse transcription PCR suggested that SV40LT could be expressed normally. In addition, ISMC‐Hc had few morphological differences compared with the primary ISMC. Furthermore, ISMC‐Hc showed the expression of the specific protein markers (alpha‐smooth muscle actin and desmin) through immunofluorescence analysis. Further studies showed that ISMC‐Hc had enhanced contractility and expressed the glial‐derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor, ciliary neurotrophic factor, and leukemia inhibitory factor after co‐stimulation with IL‐1 beta and TNF‐alpha.

Conclusions and Inferences

ISMC‐Hc showed characteristics similar to that of primary ISMC and can be used as an in vitro model to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ISMC. Additionally, the immortalized ISMCs could help investigate the basic functional mechanisms of intestinal diseases.
The institutional grammar in policy process research
Authors: Siddiki Saba , Frantz Christopher
Published: April 2022

本文介绍了一系列文章，这些文章研究了被称之为制度语法(IG)的制度分析方法。过去十年，学者已从不同方式并在不同领域中应用了制度语法，以研究决策过程的关键概念和不同方面，例如政策设计、政策变革和政策执行。在此期间，公共政策和不同其他领域的学者展示了制度语法如何能用于这类评估，以及制度语法如何能与不同方法相结合，进而应对不同的研究目的。本文(i)概述了制度语法；(ii)识别了近期《政策研究杂志》出版的一系列研究制度语法应用案例的文章中呈现的交叉主题；(iii)为基于此的未来研究以及其他近期发表的制度语法文章识别了研究机遇。
Genomic full‐length sequence of the HLA‐B*52:100 allele, identified by full‐length group‐specific sequencing
Authors: Liu Li , Han Bin , Jiao Shuxian , Pang Shutao
Published: April 2022

Genomic full‐length sequence of HLA‐B*52:100 was identified by group‐specific sequencing in a Chinese individual.
On the influence of Variscan inheritance on rifting of the Western Iberian margin
Authors: Amigo Marx Begoña , Fernandez Oscar , Olaiz Antonio , Poblet Josep , Zamora Gonzalo
Published: April 2022

The passive margin of Western Iberia (WIM) developed during the Mesozoic over the pre‐existing Variscan Orogen. In the present study we use integrated interpretation and modelling to understand the distribution of Variscan basement provinces in the offshore of Iberia. The NW–SE trending fabric of the Variscan Orogen can be recognized in the WIM, and different Variscan basement provinces behaved differently during extension. Furthermore, major Variscan structures reactivated in extension, compartmentalizing rifting and having a major impact on the final architecture of the WIM.
Potential and problems in evaluating secular changes in the diversity of animal‐substrate interactions at ichnospecies rank
Authors: Zhang Li‐Jun , Buatois Luis A. , Mángano M. Gabriela
Published: April 2022

Changes in diversity of trace fossils through time provide information about evolutionary innovations in animal‐substrate interactions. Global ichnodiversity changes at ichnogeneric rank are useful to capture major trends, but may be insufficient to reveal minor behavioural innovations. A quantitative analysis of ichnodiversity trajectories at ichnospecies rank for bioturbation structures has been performed for the first time at a global scale to evaluate how innovations in animal‐substrate interactions may be reflected at this ichnotaxonomic hierarchy. The timing of diversification at ichnospecific rank is highly variable, but mostly linked to the Cambrian Explosion (CE) and the Mesozoic Marine Revolution (MMR). Nearly all top‐heavy ichnogenera diversified during the MMR and most bottom‐heavy ichnogenera illustrate innovations during the CE. Timing of diversification at ichnospecies rank refines characterization of the ichnological equivalents of the Cambrian, Palaeozoic and Modern evolutionary fauna. Evaluating the timing of ichnospecific diversification within ichnogenera is a valuable tool in evolutionary palaeoecology.
Current status of rapid bacterial detection methods for platelet components: A 20‐year review by the ISBT Transfusion‐Transmitted Infectious Diseases Working Party Subgroup on Bacteria
Authors: Schmidt Michael , Ramirez‐Arcos Sandra , Stiller Lea , McDonald Carl ,   ISBT Transfusion‐Transmitted Infectious Diseases Working Party, Subgroup on Bacteria
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives

Bacterial contamination of platelet components (PCs) poses a safety challenge for transfusion patients. Despite mitigation interventions, the residual risk of transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infections remains predominant. PC safety can be improved either by pathogen reduction or by implementation of bacterial detection methods. Detection methodologies include culture methods and rapid detection methods. The current review focuses on currently available rapid detection methods.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed published manuscripts since 2000 on rapid bacterial detection methods used for PC screening with result determination within 4 h. Methods meeting this criterion included Verax PGDprime, BacTx and nucleic amplification testing. The analytical and diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of these systems were assessed.

Results

The analytical sensitivity between the different detection methods ranged between 50 and 100,000 CFU/ml. The sample volume used by these testing systems varies between 0.5 and 1.0 ml of PCs. A delay of at least 48 h before sampling enhances detectability. All rapid detection methods generate results in a timely manner, allowing testing to be performed before transfusion with optimal sensitivity.

Conclusion

Rapid detection methods improve PC safety regarding bacterial contamination. The assays are optimal for rapidly growing bacteria, which are more likely to cause septic transfusion reactions in patients. Because of the reduced diagnostic sensitivity, the sample collection should be late in shelf‐life and ideally just before transfusion. The major benefit of these methods is that the test result can be obtained before releasing PCs for transfusion or to be used in combination with other screening methods applied early during PC storage.
Epigenetic responses to heat: From adaptation to maladaptation
Authors: Murray Kevin O. , Clanton Thomas L. , Horowitz Michal
Published: April 2022

New Findings

What is the topic of this review?

This review outlines the history of research on epigenetic adaptations to heat exposure. The perspective taken is that adaptations reflect properties of hormesis, whereby low, repeated doses of heat induce adaptation (acclimation/acclimatization); whereas brief, life‐threatening exposures can induce maladaptive responses.

What advances does it highlight?

The epigenetic mechanisms underlying acclimation/acclimatization comprise specific molecular programmes on histones that regulate heat shock proteins transcriptionally and protect the organism from subsequent heat exposures, even after long delays. The epigenetic signalling underlying maladaptive responses might rely, in part, on extensive changes in DNA methylation that are sustained over time and might contribute to later health challenges.

Epigenetics plays a strong role in molecular adaptations to heat by producing a molecular memory of past environmental exposures. Moderate heat, over long periods of time, induces an ‘adaptive’ epigenetic memory, resulting in a condition of ‘resilience’ to future heat exposures or cross‐tolerance to other forms of toxic stress. In contrast, intense, life‐threatening heat exposures, such as severe heat stroke, can result in a ‘maladaptive’ epigenetic memory that can place an organism at risk of later health complications. These cellular memories are coded by post‐translational modifications of histones on the nucleosomes and/or by changes in DNA methylation. They operate by inducing changes in the level of gene transcription and therefore phenotype. The adaptive response to heat acclimation functions, in part, by facilitating transcription of essential heat shock proteins and exhibits a biphasic short programme (maintaining DNA integrity, followed by a long‐term consolidation). The latter accelerates acclimation responses after de‐acclimation. Although less studied, the maladaptive responses to heat stroke appear to be coded in long‐lasting changes in DNA methylation near the promoter region of genes involved with basic cell function. Whether these memories are also encoded in histone modifications is not yet known. There is considerable evidence that both adaptive and maladaptive epigenetic responses to heat can be inherited, although most evidence comes from lower organisms. Future challenges include understanding the signalling mechanisms responsible and discovering new ways to promote adaptive responses while suppressing maladaptive responses to heat, as all life forms adapt to life on a warming planet.
Bile acids, bioactive signalling molecules in interoceptive gut‐to‐brain communication
Authors: Joyce Susan A. , O'Malley Dervla
Published: April 2022

Aside from facilitating solubilisation and absorption of dietary lipids and lipid‐soluble vitamins, amphipathic bile acids (BAs) also act as bioactive signalling molecules. A plethora of conjugated or unconjugated primary and bacterially modified secondary BA moieties have been identified, with significant divergence between species. These molecules are excreted into the external environment of the intestinal lumen, yet nuclear and membrane receptors that are sensitive to BAs are expressed internally in the liver, intestinal and neural tissues, amongst others. The diversity of BAs and receptors underpins the multitude of distinct bioactive functions attributed to BAs, but also hampers elucidation of the physiological mechanisms underpinning these actions. In this Topical Review, we have considered the potential of BAs as cross‐barrier signalling molecules that contribute to interoceptive pathways informing the central nervous system of environmental changes in the gut lumen. Activation of BAs on FGF19‐secreting enterocytes, enteroendocrine cells coupled to sensory nerves or intestinal immune cells would facilitate indirect signalling, whereas direct activation of BA receptors in the brain is likely to occur primarily under pathophysiological conditions when concentrations of BAs are elevated.

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Dynamics of Mobile Manipulators Using Dual Quaternion Algebra
Authors: Afonso Silva Frederico Fernandes , José Quiroz-Omaña Juan , Vilhena Adorno Bruno
Published: April 2022

This article presents two approaches to obtain the dynamical equations of mobile manipulators using dual quaternion algebra. The first one is based on a general recursive Newton–Euler formulation and uses twists and wrenches, which are propagated through high-level algebraic operations and works for any type of joints and arbitrary parameterizations. The second approach is based on Gauss’s Principle of Least Constraint (GPLC) and includes arbitrary equality constraints. In addition to showing the connections of GPLC with Gibbs–Appell and Kane’s equations, we use it to model a nonholonomic mobile manipulator. Our current formulations are more general than their counterparts in the state of the art, although GPLC is more computationally expensive, and simulation results show that they are as accurate as the classic recursive Newton–Euler algorithm.
Gravitational wave science from space
Authors: Cruise A. M.
Published: April 2022

The success of ground based gravitational wave detectors has opened up new fields of astrophysical study with signals directly from black hole binaries and black hole-neutron star mergers providing the first data on the demography of stellar mass black holes. Other frequency ranges, both higher and lower than the 20–2000 Hz Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO)-Virgo detections, will provide access to studies of the supermassive black holes in the center of galaxies and advance the search for intermediate mass black holes as well as exploring possible new physics. The possibility of very high signal to noise measurements of signals from such simple, two-body sources could allow a range of very high precision tests of general relativity, probing the nature of gravity itself. This communication outlines the science potential of space borne gravitational wave observatories and the variety of missions now under consideration for launch in the new few decades.
Acoustic vector sensor analysis of the Monterey Bay region soundscape and the impact of COVID-19
Authors: Smith Kevin B. , Leary Paul , Deal Thomas , Joseph John , Ryan John , Miller Chris , Dawe Craig , Cray Benjamin
Published: April 2022

From February 2019 through January 2021, data were collected by an acoustic vector sensor moored on the seafloor at a depth of approximately 900 m just outside of Monterey Bay, California, near a major shipping lane off the California coast. Analysis of the vector sensor data has shown the ability to accurately determine bearings to merchant vessels at ranges up to 60 km. This paper examines the features of the low-frequency soundscape using spectral probability densities and evaluates directional features through vector intensity processing as well as coherent linear and adaptive processing of the vector sensor channels. Merchant vessel acoustic data were analyzed using the 1/3 octave band centered at 63 Hz. Over the period analyzed, a reduction in merchant vessel noise was observed between February and June 2020 relative to the same period in 2019, consistent with a reduction in vessel traffic due to the worldwide response to COVID-19. The directional features of the data evaluated through adaptive processing methods also suggest this reduction can be most clearly distinguished towards the south, where the shipping lane is limited to transiting vessels, rather to the north-northwest, where merchant vessels tend to congregate on approach into the San Francisco Bay area.
Utilizing A Percutaneous Versus Open Achilles Tendon Repair Technique for Treating Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures in Physically Active Adults: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Saleem Arhum , Khan Irfan A. , Crouser Nisha J. , Martin Kevin D.
Published: April 2022

Clinical Scenario: Acute Achilles tendon ruptures can be devastating injuries with the potential to significantly alter an individual’s ability to perform functional activities. Given the rise in the incidence of acute Achilles tendon ruptures, it is important to determine whether percutaneous versus open Achilles tendon repair facilitates superior outcomes. Clinical Question: In physically active adults with an acute Achilles tendon rupture, does performing percutaneous Achilles tendon repair result in improved outcomes compared with open Achilles tendon repair? Summary of Key Findings: Percutaneous Achilles tendon repair has similar efficacy as open Achilles tendon repair in facilitating return to activity/sport, and demonstrates improvement in short-term functional outcomes with potentially lower wound complication rates. Clinical Bottom Line: Evidence supports the utilization of percutaneous Achilles tendon repair in physically active adult patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures. It is important to critically review the benefits, risks, and alternatives of each treatment option based on patient characteristics. In addition, postoperative expectations should be discussed with the patient to set appropriate goals for recovery and improve overall satisfaction. Strength of Recommendation: A grade B recommendation can be made based on “fair” to “good” evidence from 2 level 2b studies and 1 Level 1b study to support the utilization of percutaneous Achilles tendon repair techniques.
Complete Genome Sequences of Lambdoid Phages 21, 434, and 434B and Several Lambda Hybrids
Authors: Feiss Mike , Adhya Sankar , Georgopoulos Costa , Hendrix Roger W. , Hatfull Graham F. , Gilcrease Eddie B. , Casjens Sherwood R. , Ramsey Jolene , Young Ry
Published: April 2022

Recombinational hybrids between phage λ and its relatives were instrumental in the beginnings of molecular biology. Here, we report the complete genome sequences of lambdoid phages 21 and 434 and three of their λ hybrids. In addition, we describe 434B, where the entire lysis gene region was replaced by cryptic prophage sequences.
Genome Sequences of 14 Siphophages That Infect Serratia marcescens
Authors: Carr Emilee L. , Wilson McKay E. , Adams Stephen T. , Arens Daniel K. , Ayala Moroni , Ayers Hayden , Barker Austin , Beecroft Victoria , Bishop Emily , Brundage Braden , Carroll Melany J. , Chow Jacob , Cobbley Hunter , Davis Rhen , Fajardo Christopher , Flor Samuel , Fuhriman David , Tullis Rochelle Gaertner , Gleave Austen , Green Ciara , Hanis Tyler , Hoggan Trevor , Johnson Liam , Kruger Jared L. , Lambert Andrew , Lazaro Elvira Correa , Loertscher Emily , Marshall Naomi , Melhado Elise , Sarabia Riley , Sharma Ruchira , Steffensen Austin , Stewart Jared B. , Stoker Tyson , Swain Andrew , Toronto Simeon , Thompson Daniel W. , Todd J. Zachary , Walker Jamison , Wilkey Andrew , Wilson Derrek , Hallen Cynthia L. , Casjens Sherwood R. , Grose Julianne H.
Published: April 2022

We announce the complete genome sequences of 14
Serratia
bacteriophages isolated from wastewater treatment plants. These phages define two previously undescribed types which we call the Carrot-like phage cluster (phages Carrot, BigDog, LittleDog, Niamh, Opt-148, Opt-169, PhooPhighters, Rovert, Serratianator, Stoker, Swain, and Ulliraptor) and Tlacuache-like phage cluster (Tlacuache and Opt-155).
Microbiological Diagnosis of Osteoarticular Infections: Comparison between BacT/Alert Bottles and Schaedler Broth
Authors: Gydé Esther , Heym Béate , Gillaizeau Florence , Marmor Simon , Boisrenoult Philippe , Amara Marlène
Published: April 2022

Microbiological diagnosis of OAI is based on culture on several media. French experts recommend the use of liquid media such as Schaedler broth, but many laboratories use blood culture media with automated detection in substitution because it is more convenient.
Depletion of Microglia in an
Ex Vivo
Brain Slice Culture Model of West Nile Virus Infection Leads to Increased Viral Titers and Cell Death
Authors: Stonedahl Sarah , Leser Jennifer Smith , Clarke Penny , Tyler Kenneth L.
Published: April 2022

WNV infections of the CNS are rare but can have devastating long-term effects. There are currently no vaccines or specific antiviral treatments, so a better understanding of the pathogenesis and immune response to this virus is crucial.
Clinical Evaluation of BD Veritor SARS-CoV-2 and Flu A+B Assay for Point-Of-Care System
Authors: Christensen Katherine , Ren Huimiao , Chen Shirley , Cooper Charles K. , Young Stephen
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 and flu are two respiratory illnesses which share similar clinical symptoms. The BD Veritor SARS-CoV-2/Flu assay has high sensitivity and specificity for detecting the SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A/B, the two etiologic agents causing COVID-19 and flu, respectively.
Identification and Genomic Characterization of Parvovirus B19V Genotype 3 Viruses from Cases of Meningoencephalitis in West Bengal, India
Authors: Pattabiraman Chitra , Prasad Pramada , Sudarshan Sampada , George Anson K. , Sreenivas Darshan , Rasheed Risha , Ghosh Ayushman , Pal Ananya , Hameed Shafeeq K. Shahul , Bandyopadhyay Bhaswati , Desai Anita , Vasanthapuram Ravi
Published: April 2022

Cases of meningoencephalitis with no known etiology remain a major challenge to clinical management of brain infections across the world. In this study, we detected and characterized the whole-genome of primate erythroparvovirus 1 (B19V) in cases of meningoencephalitis in India.
Effective Treatment of Skin Wounds Co-Infected with Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria with a Novel Nanoemulsion
Authors: Chen Jesse , Cao Zhengyi , Cannon Jayme , Fan Yongyi , Baker James R. , Wang Su He
Published: April 2022

Infections, specifically polymicrobial, can cause serious consequences when it comes to wound treatment. Prolonged treatment with antibiotics can lead to an increased risk of bacterial resistance; co-infections can complicate treatment options even further.
Hall Effect in the Antiferromagnetic State of Ho0.8Lu0.2B12
Authors: Khoroshilov A. L. , Bogach A. V. , Demishev S. V. , Krasikov K. M. , Polovets S. E. , Shitsevalova N. Yu. , Filipov V. B. , Sluchanko N. E.
Published: April 2022

Detailed measurements of the Hall effect in the Ho0.8Lu0.2B12 antiferromagnetic compound (Néel temperature TN = 5.75 K) in magnetic fields up to 80 kOe oriented in the (110) plane at temperatures of 1.9–6.6 K are performed. It is established with the contribution separation procedure that the anisotropic positive contribution, which is responsible for the double inversion of the sign of the Hall resistance, dominates in the antiferromagnetic state of Ho0.8Lu0.2B12 in fields of 30–50 kOe. A sharp decrease in the amplitude of the isotropic negative contribution at the transition to the antiferromagnetic phase is found. The nature of the detected anomalies in the antiferromagnetic metal with dynamic charge stripes and spin-wave component of the magnetic structure is discussed.
Dependence of the Electronic Properties of Quasicrystals on the Nonequilibrium Population of Two-Level Electron Traps
Authors: Prekul A. F. , Shchegolikhina N. I.
Published: April 2022

A new phenomenon is detected in quasicrystals: it is shown that the so-called “exotic” properties of real quasicrystalline materials are due to the presence of metastable electron traps with the nonequilibrium population of levels in the ground state of the system.
Omental patch for lower uterine segment repair during caesarean section
Authors: Carter Edward , Le Bacq Frank
Published: April 2022

Increasing rates of caesarean section have contributed to a higher number of complications such as vesicouterine fistula. A G6P5 woman in her early forties presented for her third elective repeat caesarean section. At the time of delivery, there was uterine dehiscence and the fetus was visible through a large 7×5 cm transparent window in the lower segment. After delivery of the baby, the uterus was unable to be repaired with sutures so an omental patch was fixed on the lower segment to facilitate healing. It is hypothesised that the angiogenic properties of the omentum may have promoted healing of the uterine defect and reduced the risk of vesicouterine fistula by providing a protective barrier. The patient recovered well and by 4 months post partum, her menstrual cycle had returned. Thereby, the use of an omental patch during uterine repair may reduce long-term complications associated with repeat caesarean section.
Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh in a body builder following open reduction and internal fixation for proximal femur fracture
Authors: Pritchard Matthew , Baggott Paul , Donnelly Liam , Jacob Joshua
Published: April 2022

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) of the thigh following femoral fracture has been rarely reported in previous literature. This condition must be diagnosed quickly to prevent the affected limb becoming ischaemic. We document the management of ACS of the thigh in a healthy male patient who suffered a proximal femur fracture following a high-speed road traffic accident. Early identification of characteristic clinical signs allowed for a diagnosis of ACS to be made and then managed with an emergency fasciotomy. The patient is a bodybuilder with an exceptionally large muscle mass. This made ACS more difficult to identify and wound closure a complex process over a period of 13 days. We aimed to highlight the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for ACS following traumatic injuries, recognising that ACS in larger patients can be mistaken for an increased analgesia requirement and closing fasciotomies slowly using mass tension sutures.
Phenotypic manifestations inFLNA-related periventricular nodular heterotopia: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Loft Nagel Julie , Jønch Aia Elise , Nguyen Nina T T N , Bygum Anette
Published: April 2022

Periventricular nodular heterotopia (PVNH) is an X-linked disease caused by loss-of-function variants in the filamin A (FLNA) gene. FLNA-PVNH is a heterogeneous disorder, and the phenotype is associated with neurological and non-neurological features including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, haematological, cutaneous and skeletal manifestations. No clear definition of the FLNA-PVNH phenotype has been established, but the patients are predominantly females with seizures, cardiovascular manifestations, and normal intelligence or mild intellectual disability. Herein, we describe a PVNH patient diagnosed with a novel heterozygous missense variant inFLNAafter an atypical presentation of deep vein thrombosis and thrombocytopenia. Clinical evaluation found hypermobility, cardiovascular and skin manifestations. Moreover, we conducted a literature review of 186 FLNA-PVNH patients to describe the phenotypic spectrum. In conclusion, our patient highlights the importance of thorough clinical evaluation to identify manifestations in this very heterogeneous disorder. The phenotypic review may guide clinicians in the assessment and follow-up of FLNA-PVNH patients.
#WuhanDiary and #WuhanLockdown: gendered posting patterns and behaviours on Weibo during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gan Connie Cai Ru , Feng Shuo , Feng Huiyun , Fu King-wa , Davies Sara E , Grépin Karen A , Morgan Rosemary , Smith Julia , Wenham Clare
Published: April 2022

Social media can be both a source of information and misinformation during health emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, social media became a ubiquitous tool for people to communicate and represents a rich source of data researchers can use to analyse users’ experiences, knowledge and sentiments. Research on social media posts during COVID-19 has identified, to date, the perpetuity of traditional gendered norms and experiences. Yet these studies are mostly based on Western social media platforms. Little is known about gendered experiences of lockdown communicated on non-Western social media platforms. Using data from Weibo, China’s leading social media platform, we examine gendered user patterns and sentiment during the first wave of the pandemic between 1 January 2020 and 1 July 2020. We find that Weibo posts by self-identified women and men conformed with some gendered norms identified on other social media platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic (posting patterns and keyword usage) but not all (sentiment). This insight may be important for targeted public health messaging on social media during future health emergencies.
Postoperative survival of extrahepatic and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma after surgery: a population-based cohort
Authors: Liu Wei-Wen , Tu Jian-Fei , Ying Xi-Hui , Chen Zheng-Ju , Wang Yun-Bing
Published: April 2022

Objectives

The study was designed to clarify the difference between extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) in postoperative cancer-specific death.

Design

Patients diagnosed with ECC and ICC after surgery, who are identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results programme, are eligible for this retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Survival between groups was compared using the traditional Kaplan-Meier method and the cumulative incidence function (CIF) method. Propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis was conducted to balance the differences in vital variables between groups. The HR and 95% CI for ECC relative to ICC were used to quantify the risk of death. Subgroup analysis was further used to evaluate the stability of the differences between groups.

Results

The study included 876 patients with ECC and 1194 patients with ICC. Before PSM, with the Kaplan-Meier method, postoperative overall survival and cancer-specific death for ECC were worse than those for ICC. However, with the CIF method, no difference in postoperative cancer-specific death was found. After PSM, all differences in the considered traits were balanced, and 173 pairs of patients were retained. Survival analysis found that there was no difference in postoperative all-cause death (Kaplan-Meier method, p=0.186) or cancer-specific death (Kaplan-Meier and CIF methods, p=0.500 and p=0.913, respectively), which was consistent with subgroup analysis.

Conclusions

ECC and ICC showed no difference in postoperative cancer-specific death, both in the natural state and in multiple variable-matched conditions.

Trial registration number

researchregistry4175.
Pooled analysis of all-cause and cause-specific mortality among Nordic military veterans following international deployment
Authors: Pethrus Carl-Martin , Vedtofte Mia Sadowa , Neovius Kristian , Borud Einar K , Neovius Martin
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To investigate all-cause and cause-specific mortality risks, including deaths from external, cardiovascular and cancer causes, among deployed Nordic military veterans in comparison to the general population in each country.

Design

Pooled analysis.

Setting

Denmark, Norway, Finland and Sweden.

Participants

Military veterans deployed between 1990 and 2010 were followed via nationwide registers and compared with age-sex-calendar-year-specific rates in the general population using pooled standardised mortality ratios (SMRs).

Main outcomes

All-cause and cause-specific mortality retrieved from each country’s Causes of Death Register, including deaths from external, cardiovascular and cancer causes.

Results

Among 83 584 veterans 1152 deaths occurred of which 343 were from external causes (including 203 suicides and 129 traffic/transport accidents), 134 from cardiovascular causes and 297 from neoplasms. Veterans had a lower risk of death from any cause (pooled SMR 0.58, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.64), external causes (0.71, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.79), suicide (0.77, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.89), cardiovascular causes (0.54, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.64) and neoplasms (0.78, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.88). There was no difference regarding traffic/transport accidents for the whole period (1.10, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.31) but the pooled point estimate was elevated, though not statistically significant, during the first 5 years (1.17, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.53) but not thereafter (1.01, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.34). For all other causes of death, except suicide, statistically significantly lower risk among veterans was observed both during the first 5 years and thereafter. For suicide, no difference was observed beyond 5 years. Judged from the country-specific SMR estimates, there was a high degree of consistency although statistically significant heterogeneity was found for all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

Nordic military veterans had lower overall and cause-specific mortality than the general population for most outcomes, as expected given the predeployment selection process. Though uncommon, fatal traffic/transport accidents were an exception with no difference between deployed military veterans and the general population.
Aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage—cerebral vasospasm and prophylactic ibuprofen: a randomised controlled pilot trial protocol
Authors: Dayyani Mojtaba , Mousavi Mohammadi Ermia , Ashoorion Vahid , Sadeghirad Behnam , Javedani Yekta Mohammadreza , Grotta James C , Gonzalez Nestor R , Zabihyan Samira
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Cerebral vasospasm (CVS) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity following aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH). One of the recently implicated underlying mechanisms of CVS is inflammatory cascades. Specific feasibility objectives include determining the ability to recruit 30 participants over 24 months while at least 75% of them comply with at least 75% of the study protocol and being able to follow 85% of them for 3 months after discharge.

Methods and analysis

This is a feasibility study for a randomised controlled trial. Eligible participants are adult patients who are 18 years of age and older with an aSAH confirmed by a brain CT scan, and CT angiography, or magnetic resonance angiography, or digital subtraction angiography who admitted to the emergency department within 12 hours of the ictus. Eligible subjects will be randomised 1:1 for the administration of either ibuprofen or a placebo, while both groups will concomitantly be treated by the standard of care for 2 weeks. Care givers, patients, outcome assessors and data analysts will be blinded. This will be the first study to investigate the preventive effects of a short-acting non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug on CVS and the key expected outcome of this pilot study is the feasibility and safety assessment of the administration of ibuprofen in patients with aSAH. The objectives of the definitive trial would be to assess the effect of ibuprofen relative to placebo on mortality, CVS, delayed cerebral ischaemia, and level of disability at 3-month follow-up.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is approved by Mashhad University of Medical Sciences ethical committee (IR.MUMS.MEDICAL.REC.1398.225). Results from the study will be submitted for publication regardless of whether or not there are significant findings.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN14611625.
MYCNamplification and International Neuroblastoma Risk Group stratification on fine-needle aspiration biopsy and their correlation to survival in neuroblastoma
Authors: Bhardwaj Neha , Rohilla Manish , Trehan Amita , Bansal Deepak , Kakkar Nandita , Srinivasan Radhika
Published: April 2022

Aims

Risk stratification as per the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) stratification is important for management of neuroblastoma. INRG incorporates various parameters including histological category as per the International Neuroblastoma Pathology Classification (INPC) andMYCNamplification, which were evaluated in fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) samples of neuroblastoma patients to ascertain their impact in our population.

Methods

This was a retrospective study including 60 neuroblastoma cases diagnosed on FNAB, staged and stratified by INRG. Mitosis Karyorrhexis Index (MKI), INPC morphological category andMYCNstatus by fluorescence in situ hybridisation (n=46) were evaluated and correlated to outcome.

Results

The mean age was 29 months (21 days to 9 years) with 27 and 33 children </≥18 months; male: female ratio of 1.6: 1; INRG stage-30(M), 20(L2), 2(L1) and 2(MS); INRG-36 high-risk, 13 intermediate-risk and 11 low-risk categories, respectively. MKI was high, intermediate and low in 39, 4 and 7 cases, respectively. INPC morphological type included 2 ganglioneuroblastomas and 58 neuroblastomas, graded further as 25 undifferentiated and 33 poorly differentiated tumours.MYCNwas amplified in 48% (22/46) cases and correlated with undifferentiated morphology (p=0.01). At a mean follow-up of 469 (7-835) days, 22/50 were disease free and 28/50 had relapsed/died. The overall survival correlated with age (p=0.03), stage (p=0.01), INRG group (p=0.0001) and tumour grade (p=0.036).MYCNstatus independently did not correlate with age (p=0.5), INRG stage (p=0.2) and overall survival (p=0.4).

Conclusion

FNAB is a complete modality for diagnosing neuroblastoma and providing all information required for risk stratification as per INRG including MKI,MYCNamplification, INPC category. Our cohort with predominant high-risk neuroblastoma cases highlights regional variation.
The use of oncolytic virotherapy in the neoadjuvant setting
Authors: Thomas Raquela J , Bartee Eric
Published: April 2022

Surgical removal of tumors remains a front-line therapy for many types of cancer. However, this treatment often fails to eradicate disease due to either recurrence of the original tumor or development of distant micrometastases. To address these challenges, patients are often given non-curative treatments presurgery with the intent of improving surgical outcomes. These treatments, collectively known as neoadjuvant therapies, have traditionally focused on the presurgical use of chemotherapeutics. Recently, however, a variety of immunotherapies have also been identified as potentially effective in the neoadjuvant setting. One of these immunotherapies is oncolytic virotherapy, whose clinical use has exploded with the Food and Drug Administration approval of Talimogene Laherparepvec. This review summarizes both the preclinical and clinical literature examining the use of oncolytic virotherapy in the neoadjuvant setting for different types of cancers and discusses some of the major questions that still need to be addressed in order for this unique use of immunotherapy to become clinically viable.
Flow control in the middle cerebral artery during thrombectomy: the effect of anatomy, catheter size and tip location
Authors: Neidlin Michael , Yousefian Ehsan , Luisi Claudio , Sichtermann Thorsten , Minkenberg Jan , Hasan Dimah , Ridwan Hani , Steinseifer Ulrich , Wiesmann Martin , Nikoubashman Omid
Published: April 2022

Background

Catheter size, location and circle of Willis anatomy impact the flow conditions during interventional stroke therapy. The aim of the study was to systematically investigate the influence of these factors on flow control in the middle cerebral artery by means of a computational model based on 100 patients with stroke who received endovascular treatment.

Methods

The dimensions of the cervical and intracranial cerebral arteries of 100 patients who received endovascular mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke were measured and a three-dimensional model of the circle of Willis was created based on these data. Flow control in the middle cerebral artery with variations in catheter size, catheter location and configurations of collateral vessels was determined using a computational model. A total of 48 scenarios were analyzed.

Results

Flow reversal with a distal aspiration catheter alone was not possible in the internal carotid artery and only sometimes possible in the middle cerebral artery (14 of 48 cases). The Catalyst 7 catheter was more often successful in achieving flow reversal than Catalyst 5 or 6 catheters (p<0.001). In a full circle of Willis anatomy, flow reversal was almost never possible. The absence of one or more communicating arteries significantly influenced flow direction compared with the full anatomy with all communicating arteries present (p=0.028).

Conclusion

Choosing the biggest possible aspiration catheter and locating it in the middle cerebral artery significantly increases the chances of successful flow control. Flow through the collaterals may impair the flow, and circle of Willis anatomy should be considered during aspiration thrombectomy.
Blockade of chloride channel-3 enhances cisplatin sensitivity of cholangiocarcinoma cells though inhibiting autophagy
Authors: Han Yanzhen , Zhou Yan , Zhou Liyuan , Jia Xiaoyan , Yu Xiangjun , An Xiaohong , Shi Zhe
Published: April 2022

Chemotherapy is one of the most important strategies in the treatment of cancer; however, chemoresistance restricts the effect of chemotherapy. Growing reports suggest that chloride channel-3 (ClC-3) is involved in regulating the sensitivity of multiple chemotherapeutic agents in the chemotherapy of various tumours, while its role in the chemotherapy of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is still poorly understood. Herein, we observed that ClC-3 was highly expressed in CCA chemoresistant tissues and CCA cisplatin-resistant cells QBC939/DDP, and the sensitivities of QBC939 and QBC939/DDP cells to cisplatin were all increased after inhibition of ClC-3. Further mechanism exploration revealed that ClC-3 knockdown reduced the level of autophagy. Furthermore, in both QBC939 and QBC939/DDP cells, the autophagy agonist rapamycin eliminated the increased cisplatin sensitivity of ClC-3 knockdown without affecting ClC-3 expression. Collectively, all the findings demonstrate that ClC-3 knockdown increases cisplatin-induced cell death in CCA cells though inhibiting autophagy, regardless of the occurrence of cisplatin resistance. In addition, our results also suggest that targeted inhibition of ClC-3 may be a potential strategy for chemosensitization in CCA chemotherapy.
Reuse-Based Agile Development Process for Drone Software Systems
Authors: Hussein Mahmoud , Nouacer Réda
Published: April 2022

Drones can perform air operations that are hard to be executed using manned aircrafts. The usage of drones in different domains brings significant environmental benefits and economic savings while decreasing risks to human life. Recently, a number of approaches have been introduced to support the development of drone software systems. However, developing customized drone software based on end-user needs is still a time consuming process. Such delay in software production does not match end-users expectations. Therefore, in the COMP4DRONES project (C4D, for short), we propose an agile-development process that is based on reuse to shorten the drone software development. In this process, based on the user requirements, a number of reusable components are selected from a repository that matches the user requirements. These components are then integrated to have a fully functioning drone system. This repository will be filled with reusable components that are being developed during the C4D project (i.e. the key enabling technologies for drones).
Analysis on Prediction of COVID-19 with Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Sathyaraj R. , Kanthavel R. , Cavaliere Luigi Pio Leonardo , Vyas Sumit , Maheswari S. , Gupta Ravi Kumar , Raja M. Ramkumar , Dhaya R. , Gupta Mukesh Kumar , Sengan Sudhakar
Published: April 2022

During the pandemic, the most significant reason for the deep concern for COVID-19 is that it spreads from individual to individual through contact or by staying close with the diseased individual. COVID-19 has been understood as an overall pandemic, and a couple of assessments is being performed using various numerical models. Machine Learning (ML) is commonly used in every field. Forecasting systems based on ML have shown their importance in interpreting perioperative effects to accelerate decision-making in the potential course of action. ML models have been used for long to define and prioritize adverse threat variables in several technology domains. To manage forecasting challenges, many prediction approaches have been used extensively. The paper shows the ability of ML models to estimate the amount of forthcoming COVID-19 victims that is now considered a serious threat to civilization. COVID-19 describes the comparative study on ML algorithms for predicting COVID-19, depicts the data to be predicted, and analyses the attributes of COVID-19 cases in different places. It gives an underlying benchmark to exhibit the capability of ML models for future examination.
Analyzing the Impact of Lockdown in Controlling COVID-19 Spread and Future Prediction
Authors: Anam Mamoona , Setiawan Roy , Chinnappan Sathiya Kumar , Nik Hashim Nik Alif Amri , Mehbodniya Abolfazl , Bhargava Cherry , Sharma Pardeep Kumar , Phasinam Khongdet , Subramaniyaswamy V. , Sengan Sudhakar
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 outbreaks are the critical challenge to the administrative units of all worldwide nations. India is also more concerned about monitoring the virus’s spread to control its growth rate by stringent behaviour. The present COVID-19 situation has huge impact in India, and the results of various preventive measures are discussed in this paper. This research presents different trends and patterns of data sources of States that suffered from the second wave of COVID-19 in India until 3rd July 2021. The data sources were collected from the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This work reacts particularly to many research activities to discover the lockdown effects to control the virus through traditional methods to recover and safeguard the pandemic. The second wave caused more losses in the economy than the first wave and increased the death rate. To avoid this, various methods were developed to find infected cases during the regulated national lockdown, but the infected cases still harmed unregulated incidents. The COVID-19 forecasts were made on 3rd July 2021, using exponential simulation. This paper deals with the methods to control the second wave giving various analyses reports showing the impact of lockdown effects. This highly helps to safeguard from the spread of the future pandemic.
Analysis of Special Children Education Using Data Mining Approach
Authors: Dhanalakshmi R. , Muthukumar B. , Canessane R. Aroul
Published: April 2022

Data mining is a method that gives valuable information where we can improve and achieve the goal. Existing data mining techniques are applied in education for analyzing the performance of students, classes, and institutions. This helps the teachers and management to identify where they lag and improvise. Some mining techniques are used to predict and identify special children’s categories. In this paper, data mining techniques are applied for the special children to predict the achievement in special school study for child categories like Mental Retardation (MR), autism, and cerebral palsy using the collected assessment detail. Vocational training is considered an essential aspect for special school children for their future survival. Data mining methods are applied to mine the most achievable and essential training factors as a pattern by apriori rule mining and high utility pattern mining algorithms, based on their assessment achieved from the age 10–14, where Madras developmental programming scale is followed in special schools. We can predict which category children are achieving necessary factors, which helps identify the alternate methods to train the particular activity. Essential factors that cannot achieve at the same level will be trained in the next prevocational level to reach their vocational training. The prediction that we have made will be helpful for the teachers to train the children concerning their achievements.
A Comparative Study on the Behavior of Ride Quality Due to Deflated State of Air Spring Using Different Properties of Hyperelastic Material
Authors: Tiwari Vikas , Sharma Satish C. , Harsha S. P.
Published: April 2022

Elastomers are widely used in various engineering applications due to their huge elasticity and good dynamic behavior. One of the elastomeric elements is rubber blocks, which are used in many applications, such as vibration isolators, bumpers, shock absorbers, dampers, etc. In this research, the impact on the ride index due to the deflated state of the air spring with various kinds of hyperelastic materials is analyzed by the finite element method. The stress–energy function of rubber materials is first diagnosed, and Poisson’s ratio defined the volumetric terms. The rubber isolator’s stress is studied based on the finite element model, and the structure is improved. It is observed that for the deflated state of the air spring, laminated rubber isolation diminishes the muscular amount of structural responses compared to the conventional rubber base structures, and improves the ride comfort. This study would assist in doing finite element analysis of the secondary suspension system and other vibration-damping components.