bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High ANO1 expression is a prognostic factor and correlated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Zhang Guangnian , Shu Zhihui , Yu Jun , Li Jianshui , Yi Pengsheng , Wu Bin , Deng Dawei , Yan Shu , Li Yong , Ren Dongmei , Hou Yifu , Lan Chuan
Published: January 2024

Background

Aminooctylamine (ANO1) plays an oncogenic role in various cancers. However. its role in pancreatic cancer (PC) has rarely been studied. This study investigated the prognostic value of ANO1 and its correlation with the tumor microenvironment (TME) in PC.

Methods

Consecutive patients with PC (n = 119) were enrolled. The expression of ANO1 in cancer cells, the expression of fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and alpha smooth muscle actin in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and the numbers of CD8- and FOXP3-positive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. The prognostic value of ANO1 and its correlation with CAF subgroups and TILs were analyzed. The possible mechanism of ANO1 in the TME of PC was predicted using the the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset.

Results

The expression of AN01 was correlated with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival. Multi-factor analysis showed that high ANO1 expression was an independent adverse prognostic factor for OS (hazard ratio, 4.137; P = 0.001). ANO1 expression was positively correlated with the expression of FAP in CAFs (P < 0.001) and negatively correlated with the number of CD8-positive TILs (P = 0.005), which was also validated by bioinformatics analysis in the TCGA dataset. Moreover, bioinformatic analysis of the TCGA dataset revealed that ANO1 may induce an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer in a paracrine manner.

Conclusion

ANO1 is a prognostic factor in patients with PC after radical resection. ANO1 may induce an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in PC in a paracrine manner, suggesting that ANO1 may be a novel therapeutic target.
Satisfaction with health care services in young people with cerebral palsy in the transition period: results from a European multicenter study
Authors: Muehlan Holger , Alvarelhao Joaquim , Arnaud Catherine , Cytera Chirine , Fauconnier Jerome , Himmelmann Kate , Marcelli Marco , Markwart Henriette , Rapp Marion , Schmidt Silke , Thyen Ute
Published: January 2024

Background

Young people with chronic health conditions and disabilities rely on the healthcare system to maintain their best possible health. The appropriate delivery and utilization of healthcare services are key to improve their autonomy, self-efficacy and employment outcomes. The research question of our study is directed toward investigating if poor availability and accessibility of healthcare services in general, as identified by unmet needs in healthcare, are associated with dissatisfaction with healthcare.

Methods

Within a European multicenter observational study, 357 young adults with cerebral palsy aged 19–28 were included. We assessed special healthcare needs, utilization of healthcare services, and satisfaction with healthcare applying the short-form of the YHC-SUN-SF, environmental and social variables (EAEQ) as well as indicators for severity of condition and functionality (e.g., GMFCS) of these participants based on a self-, assisted self- or proxy-reports. We used correlation analyses to explore associations between satisfaction with healthcare and respective indicators related to availability and accessibility of healthcare services as well as severity of the condition. In addition, we included reference values for satisfaction with heath care from young adults with various chronic conditions assessed within population-based surveys from some of the European countries included in the study.

Results

We identified several unmet healthcare needs, especially for widely used and established services (e.g., physical therapy). Satisfaction with healthcare (YHC-SUN-SF general and subscale scores) was moderate to high and almost consistently better for the sample of young adults with cerebral palsy as compared to reference values for young adults with various chronic conditions assessed within general population surveys). Correlation coefficients between satisfaction with healthcare and utilization of services and (unmet) healthcare needs were low, also with different indicators for severity of the condition or functionality.

Conclusion

Young adults with cerebral palsy reports of unmet healthcare needs varied largely but showed substantial deficits in some aspects. This seems to have no impact on the satisfaction with healthcare those patients currently receive. We conclude that these are two different constructs and somewhat independent indicators to evaluate the quality of healthcare. Clinicians and other practitioners should consider this distinction when monitoring patient needs in their daily practice.
The antibacterial performance of a residual disinfectant against Staphylococcus aureus on environmental surfaces
Authors: Omardien Soraya , Pingulkar Sarvesh , Thayagan Mariska , Buniotto Laura , de Oliveira Negreiros Mateus
Published: January 2024

Environmental surfaces play a key role in transmitting pathogens that can survive on surfaces for long durations. The interest in long-lasting or residual disinfectants are, therefore, growing as it might protect surfaces for longer than traditional disinfectants. In this study, a quat-based product claiming residual disinfecting performance against bacteria, among other microorganisms, was tested using an approved standardized method, in a controlled laboratory study and on environmental surfaces in an office building. The results obtained showed that the residual disinfectant can reduce the bacterial counts significantly compared to a traditional quat-based disinfectant when used on horizontal surfaces, twenty-four hours after application. During the standardized test method, the residual disinfectant provided a 6-log reduction, whereas the traditional disinfectant provided only a 1.9-log reduction. Similarly, the residual disinfectant provided a 2.5 log reduction in the laboratory study, whereas the traditional disinfectant had too-numerous-to-count colonies. When tested on environmental surfaces, an ANOVA statistical analysis indicated that surfaces treated with the residual disinfectant had significantly less bacteria present twenty-four hours after application. The antibacterial performance of the residual disinfectant showed to be limited by the orientation of the treated surface, and the thickness of the product film dried on the surface. This study showed the potential of residual disinfectants that warrants further investigation and could potentially aid the further development of the technology.
A brain-inspired approach for SAR-to-optical image translation based on diffusion models
Authors: Shi Hao , Cui Zihan , Chen Liang , He Jingfei , Yang Jingyi
Published: January 2024

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) plays a crucial role in all-weather and all-day Earth observation owing to its distinctive imaging mechanism. However, interpreting SAR images is not as intuitive as optical images. Therefore, to make SAR images consistent with human cognitive habits and assist inexperienced people in interpreting SAR images, a generative model is needed to realize the translation from SAR images to optical ones. In this work, inspired by the processing of the human brain in painting, a novel conditional image-to-image translation framework is proposed for SAR to optical image translation based on the diffusion model. Firstly, considering the limited performance of existing CNN-based feature extraction modules, the model draws insights from the self-attention and long-skip connection mechanisms to enhance feature extraction capabilities, which are aligned more closely with the memory paradigm observed in the functioning of human brain neurons. Secondly, addressing the scarcity of SAR-optical image pairs, data augmentation that does not leak the augmented mode into the generated mode is designed to optimize data efficiency. The proposed SAR-to-optical image translation method is thoroughly evaluated using the SAR2Opt dataset. Experimental results demonstrate its capacity to synthesize high-fidelity optical images without introducing blurriness.
Gross total resection and survival outcomes in elderly patients with spinal chordoma: a SEER-based analysis
Authors: Pham John , Shaaya Elias , Rhee Ben , Kimata Anna , Ozcan Evrim E. , Pham Katie M. , Niu Tianyi , Sullivan Patricia , Gokaslan Ziya L.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The association between aggressive resection and improved survival for adult spinal chordoma patients has not been well characterized in the geriatric population. Thus, the present study aimed to elucidate the relationship between gross total resection (GTR) and survival outcomes for patients across different age groups.

Methods

The authors isolated all adult patients diagnosed with spinal chordoma from the 2000-2019 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database and divided patients into three surgical subgroups: no surgery, subtotal resection (STR), and GTR. Kaplan-Meier curves with a log-rank test were used to discern differences in overall survival (OS) between surgical subgroups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify prognostic factors of mortality.

Results

There were 771 eligible patients: 227 (29.4%) received no surgery, 267 (34.6%) received STR, and 277 (35.9%) received GTR. Patients receiving no surgery had the lowest 5-year OS (45.2%), 10-year OS (17.6%), and mean OS (72.1 months). After stratifying patients by age, our multivariate analysis demonstrated that patients receiving GTR aged 40-59 (HR=0.26, CI=0.12-0.55, p<0.001), 60-79 (HR=0.51, CI=0.32-0.82, p=0.005), and 80-99 (HR=0.14, CI=0.05-0.37, p<0.001) had a lower risk of mortality compared to patients undergoing no surgery. The frequency of receiving GTR also decreased as a function of age (16.4% [80-99 years] vs. 43.2% [20-39 years]; p<0.001), but the frequency of receiving radiotherapy was comparable across all age groups (48.3% [80-99 years] vs. 45.5% [20-39 years]; p=0.762).

Conclusion

GTR is associated with improved survival for middle-aged and elderly patients with spinal chordoma. Therefore, patients should not be excluded from aggressive resection on the basis of age alone. Rather, the decision to pursue surgery should be decided on an individual basis.
Case report: Retroperitoneal solid pseudopapillary neoplasm associated with multiple hepatic metastases
Authors: Chen Lin , Yuan Mengchen , Wang Meng , Luo Chenglong , Gao Mengyu , Huang Qingbo , Li Zhenqian , Zhou Zhigang
Published: January 2024

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) is a rare tumor mostly occurring in the pancreas. They are low-grade malignant tumors of the exocrine pancreas that occasionally metastasize, usually to the liver or peritoneum. Additionally, multiple metastases of extrapancreatic SPN to the liver are extremely rare and have been reported before. This study presents a case of a 13-year-old male patient with retroperitoneal SPN and multiple hepatic metastases. The patient presented with abdominal trauma and underwent enhanced CT, which revealed upper pancreatic occupancy and three hypodense foci in the right lobe of the liver. Moreover, increased spleen size was noted. The patient’s serum tumor marker CA125 was increased to 39.00 U/mL (N < 35.0 U/mL), and circulating tumor cells were elevated to 10.2 FU/3 mL (N < 8.7 FU/3 mL). The patient underwent retroperitoneal occupancy resection and splenectomy, followed by resection of liver metastases 7 months after the surgery. Furthermore, multiple liver metastases from retroperitoneal SPN were confirmed postoperatively. The patient recovered for 1 year without tumor recurrence. This case emphasizes the importance of evaluating serum tumor markers and medical imaging in young patients as well as the fact that surgery appears to be the preferred treatment option for multiple metastases in SPN.
Upright proton therapy for esthesioneuroblastoma: a single-institution experience
Authors: Gordon Konstantin , Gulidov Igor , Smyk Daniil , Semenov Alexey , Golubev Kirill , Lemaeva Alyona , Koryakin Sergey , Jumaniyazova Enar , Vishnyakova Polina , Eremina Irina , Fatkhudinov Timur , Kaprin Andrey
Published: January 2024

Aim

This study presents an analysis (efficacy and toxicity) of outcomes in patients with esthesioneuroblastoma after pencil beam proton therapy with a fixed beamline in the upright position.

Background

Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is an extremely rare tumor of sinonasal area located in critical proximity to vital structures. Proton therapy (PT) is often considered the optimal radiation treatment for head-and-neck tumors, although of limited availability. Upright PT delivered using fixed pencil beamline and rotating chair is a fairly promising option.

Methods

This is a single-center experience describing the outcomes of PT in 14 patients with ENB treated between January 2016 and October 2022; half of the cases had a history of previous irradiation. The therapy was applied using a fixed pencil beamline with 6D-chair for positioning. The median dose was 63 GyRBE (total range 48–70 GyRBE; based on 1.1 RBE multiplier for protons) with 2.0 GyRBE per fraction. The mean gross tumor volume was 109.5 cm3 (17.1–257.7 cm3). Patient demography, pathology, treatment parameters and toxicity data were analyzed. Radiation-induced reactions were assessed according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v 4.0.

Results

The median follow-up time was 28 months. The 1- and 2-year locoregional control rates constituted 100% and 88.9%, respectively; the median duration of local control was 52 months. The 1- and 2-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates constituted 92.9% and 75.0%, respectively; the median PFS duration was 52 months. The 1- and 2-year overall survival (OS) rates constituted 92.9% and 84.4%, respectively. Two patients died of non-cancer-related causes (coronavirus-induced pneumonia) and 1 patient died of tumor progression. All patients tolerated PT well without any treatment gaps. Serious late toxicity reactions included glaucoma in 1 patient and cataract in 2 patients, in over half a year since irradiation.

Conclusion

PT with upright design of the unit affords promising outcomes in terms of disease control and toxicity rates in ENB, a sinonasal tumor of complicated localization.
The Relevance of Sectoral Clustering in Corporate Debt Policy: The Case Study of Slovak Enterprises
Authors: Gajdosikova Dominika , Valaskova Katarina , Lazaroiu George
Published: January 2024

The processing and transformation of natural resources into completed and semi-finished products is the primary function of industry in each nation’s economy. There is no denying the significance of industry and sectoral classification of the economy, but the slow development and extension of one industry could have resulted in the advancement of other sectors that are now a part of contemporary communities. Since there are statistically significant differences between various industries, numerous authors are currently investigating the impact of the industry on the financial structure of firms, revealing the industry as a crucial determinant of corporate indebtedness. Thus, the main aim of this study is to determine the debt level of a sample of 4237 enterprises operating in the market in the period of 2018–2021 from various sectors using eight debt indicators, as well as to identify relationships between them, which may help to reveal sectors with homogeneous patterns of indebtedness (using the cluster analysis) and thus understand which sectors are the most stable and independent. The Kruskal–Wallis test is then used to determine if there are statistically significant differences between the calculated ratios related to the economic sector. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the choice of financial structure is significantly influenced by the industry. Financial performance and indebtedness indicators are quantitative statistics used to assess, monitor, and forecast company or sectoral financial health. They act as instruments for business insiders and outsiders to assess a company’s performance, particularly in comparison to competitors, and to pinpoint its strengths and weaknesses, making the outputs of this study important for all types of stakeholders.
Planned Happenstance and Entrepreneurship Development: The Case of Japanese Undergraduate Students
Authors: Hosomi Masaki , Khalid Saddam , Sekiguchi Tomoki
Published: January 2024

This research aimed to investigate Japanese university students’ entrepreneurial development processes using the happenstance learning theory. The current research was an empirical study investigating the role of risk propensity, lifetime employment orientation, and entrepreneurship-related exploratory behaviour in developing the entrepreneurial intention of university students in Japan. Data were collected from 214 undergraduate students in Japan. The results demonstrated that the risk propensity characteristic of students influenced entrepreneurial intentions through entrepreneurship-related exploratory behaviour and lifetime employment orientation. The research also found that leadership experience moderated the relationship between risk propensity and entrepreneurship-related exploratory behaviour and the relationship between entrepreneurship-related exploratory behaviour and entrepreneurial intention. By applying the happenstance learning theory in an entrepreneurship study, the current research provides meaningful insights for research scholars, educators, and policymakers interested in the entrepreneurial intentions of students. This paper concludes with a discussion on the theoretical implications and future research directions.
Identifying Plant Functional Traits of Weeds in Fields Planted with Glyphosate-Tolerant Maize for Preferable Weed Management Practices
Authors: Kwinda Murendeni , Siebert Stefan John , Van Coller Helga , Masehela Tlou Samuel
Published: January 2024

Weed responses in disturbance-prone agroecosystems are linked to specific plant traits that enable their persistence. Understanding how weeds adapt to thrive in these systems in response to herbicide application is important for farmers to improve weed management for enhanced crop productivity. In this study, we investigated the functional traits and types of weed species able to persist within fields of glyphosate-tolerant maize in the Oliver Tambo District of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This was accomplished by exploring the abundance patterns, composition, and richness of specific weed traits and functional types. Frequency measures (%) were used to identify indicator species. A data set comprising 42 indicator weed species and 11 predefined disturbance traits from 28 fields of glyphosate-tolerant maize was considered for functional analysis. Clusters were identified according to the grouping of weed species based on their trait scores, which revealed ten plant functional types (PFTs). Disturbances associated with post-emergence (after ploughing, sowing, and herbicide application) act as filters that select for weed species with traits such as life span, life form, growth form, photosynthetic pathway, carbon storage, and nitrogen-fixing ability to colonise fields. Trait richness did not differ significantly across maize fields. Our results highlighted the functional types and traits that are favourable to weed resistance and survival, and these need to be considered when developing different herbicide application protocols. By understanding which traits are favourable for weed survival post-emergence, farmers can apply targeted weed management to safeguard maize productivity. In addition, successful control of weeds will contribute to landscape-targeted herbicide applications that are less harmful to the environment.
Study on Spray Evaluation: The Key Role of Droplet Collectors
Authors: He Miao , Qi Peng , Han Leng , He Xiongkui
Published: January 2024

Droplet collectors are commonly utilized to gauge the effect of pesticide deposition on crops. However, the varying surface characteristics of these collectors can lead to disparate data outcomes. Notably, water-sensitive paper is limited in humid environments, hindering rapid droplet deposition evaluation. Consequently, the selection of appropriate droplet collectors based on the environmental conditions is imperative. This study involved the use of five typical droplet collectors to establish a method for the swift and accurate evaluation of spray effectiveness, employing various spray liquids. It was observed that the surface free energy of five widely used droplet collectors was measured as follows: 35.11 mN m−1 for semigloss paper, 33.81 mN m−1 for coated paper laminated with polyvinyl chloride, 48.38 mN m−1 for kromekote paper (KP), 33.90 mN m−1 for polyvinyl chloride cards, and 39.95 mN m−1 for water-sensitive paper. When comparing the outcomes of deposition tests across these five collectors, it was noted that the results pertaining to droplet density were minimally influenced by the surface properties of the collectors with droplet coverage following. The volume of deposition was found to be the most susceptible to the surface characteristics of the collectors. Therefore, in the context of collecting and processing droplets, prioritizing droplet density as the metric for evaluation proved to be more reliable than using the other indicators.
Environmental Management of Equine Asthma
Authors: Diez de Castro Elisa , Fernandez-Molina Jose Maria
Published: January 2024

Environmental practices related to the inhalation of airborne dust have been identified as the main cause of equine asthma (EA) and reasonably, they are truly relevant in its treatment and control, especially for horses with its severe form. Vast research regarding environmental recommendations has been conducted in recent years. However, no recent exhaustive reviews exist that gather all this new evidence. The aim of this review is to report and compare the most pertinent information concerning the environmental management of EA. The main findings highlight the importance of the type of forage used for feeding but also its method of production and possible contamination during manufacture and/or storage. Procedures to reduce this, such as soaking and steaming hay, improve its hygienic quality, although they also decrease forage’s nutritional value, making dietetic supplementation necessary. Regarding stabling, despite some conflicting results, avoiding straw as bedding and improving barn ventilation continue to be the common recommendations if turning to pasture is not feasible. Finally, owners’ compliance has been identified as the most critical point in correct environmental control. Educating owners about the genuine benefits of these measures should be a cornerstone of EA management.
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Impact of a Novel Probiotic and Nutraceutical Supplement on Pruritic Dermatitis and the Gut Microbiota in Privately Owned Dogs
Authors: Tate Devon E. , Tanprasertsuk Jirayu , Jones Roshonda B. , Maughan Heather , Chakrabarti Anirikh , Khafipour Ehsan , Norton Sharon A. , Shmalberg Justin , Honaker Ryan W.
Published: January 2024

Pruritic dermatitis (PD) is a common presentation of canine allergic skin diseases, with diversity in severity and treatment response due to complex etiopathogenesis. Evidence suggests the gut microbiota (GM) may contribute to the development of canine allergies. A 10-week double-blind randomized controlled trial evaluated a novel probiotic and nutraceutical blend (PNB) on clinical signs of skin allergy, health measures, and the GM of privately owned self-reported pruritic dogs. A total of 105 dogs were enrolled, with 62 included in pruritus and health analysis and 50 in microbiome analysis. The PNB supported greater improvement of owner-assessed clinical signs of PD at week 2 than the placebo (PBO). More dogs that received the PNB shifted to normal pruritus (digital PVAS10-N: <2) by week 4, compared to week 7 for the PBO. While a placebo effect was identified, clinical differences were supported by changes in the GM. The PNB enriched three probiotic bacteria and reduced abundances of species associated with negative effects. The PBO group demonstrated increased abundances of pathogenic species and reduced abundances of several beneficial species. This trial supports the potential of the PNB as a supplemental intervention in the treatment of PD; however, further investigation is warranted, with stricter diagnostic criteria, disease biomarkers and direct veterinary examination.
Implementation of Whole Genome Sequencing of Tuberculosis Isolates in a Referral Center in Rome: Six Years’ Experience in Characterizing Drug-Resistant TB and Disease Transmission
Authors: Cannas Angela , Butera Ornella , Mazzarelli Antonio , Messina Francesco , Vulcano Antonella , Parracino Mario Pasquale , Gualano Gina , Palmieri Fabrizio , Di Caro Antonino , Nisii Carla , Fontana Carla , Girardi Enrico
Published: January 2024

Over the past years, Tuberculosis (TB) control strategies have been effective in reducing drug-resistant (DR) TB globally; however, a wider implementation of new diagnostic strategies, such as Whole genome sequencing (WGS), would be critical for further improvement. The aim of this study, based on WGS of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) strains isolated in a TB referral center over 6 years, was to evaluate the efficacy of this methodology in improving therapy guidance for clinicians and in improving the understanding of the epidemiology of TB transmission. WGS was performed in addition to pDST on 1001 strains consecutively isolated between January 2016 and December 2021; the results allowed us to improve the quality of data on resistance and to identify possible clusters of transmission. Prediction of rifampicin-resistant (RR) or multi-drug-resistant TB strains (MDR-TB, defined as resistance to at least rifampicin and isoniazid) was obtained for 50 strains (5%). Mutations predictive of an MDR isolate were further characterized, and Ser450Leu and Ser315Thr were found to be the most frequent mutations in rpoB and katG genes, respectively. Discordances between WGS and phenotypic drug susceptibility testing (pDST) were found in few strains, and their impact on clinical decisions and outcome was addressed. The introduction of WGS in our Institute improved our diagnostic routine, allowing accurate patient management, and was a valid instrument for epidemiological investigations and infection control.
A Novel Method Based on Topological Perception Theory for 3D Landmark Building Model Retrieval
Authors: Li Chunlei , Ding Yuan , Yang Yingbao
Published: January 2024

Landmark building models typically exhibit intricate structures, posing challenges for retrieval using generic descriptors. To address this challenge, this paper abstracts and simplifies the model into simple topological structures grounded in topological perceptual theory and introduces a novel categorization of landmark building models. Furthermore, based on view, the quotient distance–angle histogram algorithm is proposed for extracting model topological features. This approach facilitates the identification of intricate landmark building models and enhances retrieval performance. In addition, a new projection method is also proposed. Based on the fact that most landmark building models have correct upright direction and the significant topological features predominantly emerge in the top or side views of these models, this method can accelerate the subsequent extraction and matching of shape descriptors by reducing the extraction of model views. Compared with the existing methods, the proposed projection method is more consistent with human visual perception, and the experimental results verify that the proposed method can improve the retrieval performance when classifying the topological structure of 3D landmark building models.
Numerical Simulation and Process Parameter Optimization of Warm Forging Near-Net Forming for Spiral Bevel Gear
Authors: Wang Zhen , Jiang Chuang , Wei Bingyang , Wang Yongqiang
Published: January 2024

The warm-forging technology of the spiral bevel gear (873 K–1073 K) was studied. Based on the rigid–plastic finite element method, a numerical simulation was carried out by using DEFORM V11.0 software to explore the influence of different process parameters on gear-forming quality and forming force in the process of warm forging. Taking into account the complexity of the geometry of spiral bevel gears and the diversity of the influence factors in the forging process, as determined through nine groups of numerical simulation experiments, this paper systematically analyzed the influence law of different forging speeds, die preheating temperatures, friction factors and workpiece heating temperatures on the effective stress and strain of spiral bevel gears. The best combination of process parameters with minimum forging force was obtained via the orthogonal experiment, which provides a theoretical basis for the optimization design of the precision forging process of spiral bevel gears and also provides a new idea for studying the precision-forging–forming process of other complex parts.
Experimental Study of Different Radial Jet Drilling Parameters and Operation Regimes for Effective Well Stimulation
Authors: Krivoshchekov Sergey , Kochnev Alexander , Ozhgibesov Evgeny , Yuzhakov Alexey
Published: January 2024

Radial waterjet drilling technology presents a modern solution to enhance oil recovery. This technology has already established itself at a number of oilfields, but selecting the best operational and technical parameters for radial waterjet drilling channels remains an open and poorly studied question. The purpose of this work is to study the process of radial channel drilling in detail by means of bench tests in laboratory conditions. The study models static and dynamic waterjet stimulation and determines the optimum values of operating parameters affecting waterjet nozzle speed in the channel that is being drilled. As a result of the conducted experiments, it was found that the dynamic mode of stimulation is more effective than the static mode. Therefore, development and introduction of additional modules to the equipment arrangement to ensure constant forced linear reciprocating motion of the waterjet nozzle will significantly improve the efficiency and speed of waterjet drilling. Further design and practical application of the aforementioned novel technical solution will significantly improve the performance of radial drilling technology in enhanced oil recovery.
A Precise Modeling Method for PMSM Servo System of Spacecraft
Authors: Xu Hang , Song Zhe , Xiao Xi , Mo Yu , Zhou Weihong , Wu Pengfei
Published: January 2024

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) servo system is the control and execution mechanism of spacecraft, and its precise modeling is of great practical significance for improving the performance of the spacecraft. A comprehensive model considering elasticity, backlash, and friction was established based on the structural composition and transmission characteristics of spacecraft. Firstly, an elastic-dead zone model was established based on the transmission characteristics, with two mass elastic and gear backlash dead zones as the main features. Then, an improved LuGre friction model was established that considers the effects of vibration and environmental temperature, and the three models were organically combined. Finally, a method for identifying nonlinear parameters of the system using sinusoidal sweep and the least squares method was proposed, and the accuracy of the constructed model was verified. The experiment shows that the error of the simulation results is consistent with the experimental results. This method can precisely obtain the servo system model, providing theoretical support for control method research.
Quality of Life in NSAIDs-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease on or off Intranasal Lysine Aspirin Therapy
Authors: Pendolino Alfonso Luca , Ferreira Joshua , Scadding Glenis K. , Andrews Peter J.
Published: January 2024

Background: Intranasal administration of lysine aspirin (LAS) is a safe and effective method for aspirin treatment after desensitisation (ATAD). Changes in quality of life (QoL) in patients on intranasal LAS have not been documented and we aimed to investigate QoL in N-ERD patients on or off nasal ATAD. Moreover, an estimate of the cost burden of intranasal LAS is given. Methods: A cross-sectional review was conducted for all challenge-confirmed N-ERD patients who were in follow-up in our rhinology clinic. They were asked to complete a SNOT-22 questionnaire, a visual analogue scale for sense of smell (sVAS). Information on prices of LAS and other consumables used for intranasal ATAD was obtained from our hospital pharmacy to obtain an estimate of the cost burden. Results: Thirty-four patients replied to the email (79.1% response rate). Of these, 21 (61.8%) were on intranasal LAS. A statistically significant lower score in the total SNOT-22 was found amongst patients on intranasal LAS (p = 0.02). The subanalysis of SNOT-22 domains showed that patients on LAS had statistically significant lower scores in the domains “rhinologic symptoms” (p = 0.05), “function” (p = 0.02), and “emotion” (p = 0.01). No significant differences were observed when looking at sVAS. The cost of 1-year treatment of LAS per person was ≈GBP 180.7 with a daily cost of ≈GBP 0.50. Conclusions: This study supports the efficacy of nasal ATAD in the management of N-ERD and suggests that long-term use can lead to QoL improvement with cost benefits.
Integration of an Ultrasonic Sensor within a Robotic End Effector for Application within Railway Track Flaw Detection
Authors: Cilia Luke , Griffiths Christian Andrew , Rees Andrew , Thompson Jennifer
Published: January 2024

The rail industry is constantly facing challenges related to safety with regard to the detection of surface cracks and internal defects within rail tracks. Significant focus has been placed on developing sensor technologies that would facilitate the detection of flaws that compromise rail safety. In parallel, robot automation has demonstrated significant advancements in the integration of sensor technologies within end effectors. This study investigates the novel integration of an ultrasonic sensor within a robotic platform specifically for the application of detecting surface cracks and internal defects within rail tracks. The performance of the robotic sensor system was assessed on a rail track specimen containing sacrificial surface cracks and internal defects and then compared against a manual detection system. The investigation concludes that the robotic sensor system successfully identified internal defects in the web region of the rail track when utilising a 60° and 70° wedged probe, with a frequency range between 4 MHz and 5 MHz. However, the surface crack investigation proved that the transducer was insensitive to the detection of cracks, possibly due to the inadequate angle of the wedged probe. The overall outcome of the study highlights the potential that robotic sensor systems have in the detection of internal defects and characterises the limitations of surface crack identification to assist in enhancing rail safety.
Analysis of Traub’s Method for Cubic Polynomials
Authors: Neta Beny
Published: January 2024

The dynamical analysis of Kurchatov’s scheme is extended to Traub’s method. The difference here is that Traub’s method requires two additional starting points. Therefore, the map is three-dimensional instead of 2-D. We obtain a complete description of the dynamical planes and show that the method is stable for cubic polynomials.
Soliton Solution of the Nonlinear Time Fractional Equations: Comprehensive Methods to Solve Physical Models
Authors: O’Regan Donal , Aderyani Safoura Rezaei , Saadati Reza , Inc Mustafa
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we apply two different methods, namely, the G′G-expansion method and the G′G2-expansion method to investigate the nonlinear time fractional Harry Dym equation in the Caputo sense and the symmetric regularized long wave equation in the conformable sense. The mentioned nonlinear partial differential equations (NPDEs) arise in diverse physical applications such as ion sound waves in plasma and waves on shallow water surfaces. There exist multiple wave solutions to many NPDEs and researchers are interested in analytical approaches to obtain these multiple wave solutions. The multi-exp-function method (MEFM) formulates a solution algorithm for calculating multiple wave solutions to NPDEs and at the end of paper, we apply the MEFM for calculating multiple wave solutions to the (2 + 1)-dimensional equation.
Salt Tolerance in Machilus faberi: Elucidating Growth and Physiological Adaptations to Saline Environments
Authors: Mo Qiong , Liu Yang , Wei Haohui , Jiang Liyuan , Wu En , Lin Ling , Yang Qihong , Yu Xiaoying , Yan Lihong , Li Yanlin
Published: January 2024

Adversity stress is the main environmental factor limiting plant growth and development, including salt and other stress factors. This study delves into the adaptability and salt tolerance mechanisms of Machilus faberi Hemsl, a species with potential for cultivation in salinized areas. We subjected the plants to various salt concentrations to observe their growth responses and to assess key physiological and biochemical indicators. The results revealed that under high salt concentrations (500 and 700 mmol−1/L), symptoms such as leaf yellowing, wilting, and eventual death were observed. Notably, plant height and shoot growth ceased on the 14th day of exposure. Chlorophyll content (a, b, total a + b, and the a/b ratio) initially increased but subsequently decreased under varying levels of salt stress. Similarly, the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, leaf water content, and root activity significantly declined under these conditions. Moreover, we observed an increase in malondialdehyde levels and relative conductivity, indicative of cellular damage and stress. The activity of superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase initially increased and then diminished with prolonged stress, whereas peroxidase activity consistently increased. Levels of proline and soluble protein exhibited an upward trend, contrasting with the fluctuating pattern of soluble sugars, which decreased initially but increased subsequently. In conclusion, M. faberi exhibits a degree of tolerance to salt stress, albeit with growth limitations when concentrations exceed 300 mmol−1/L. These results shed light on the plant’s mechanisms of responding to salt stress and provide a theoretical foundation for its cultivation and application in salt-affected regions.
APHRODITE: A Compact Lab-on-Chip Biosensor for the Real-Time Analysis of Salivary Biomarkers in Space Missions
Authors: Nardi Lorenzo , Davis Nithin Maipan , Sansolini Serena , Baratto de Albuquerque Thiago , Laarraj Mohcine , Caputo Domenico , de Cesare Giampiero , Shariati Pour Seyedeh Rojin , Zangheri Martina , Calabria Donato , Guardigli Massimo , Balsamo Michele , Carrubba Elisa , Carubia Fabrizio , Ceccarelli Marco , Ghiozzi Michele , Popova Liyana , Tenaglia Andrea , Crisconio Marino , Donati Alessandro , Nascetti Augusto , Mirasoli Mara
Published: January 2024

One of the main challenges to be faced in deep space missions is to protect the health and ensure the maximum efficiency of the crew by preparing methods of prevention and in situ diagnosis. Indeed, the hostile environment causes important health problems, ranging from muscle atrophy, osteopenia, and immunological and metabolic alterations due to microgravity, to an increased risk of cancer caused by exposure to radiation. It is, therefore, necessary to provide new methods for the real-time measurement of biomarkers suitable for deepening our knowledge of the effects of space flight on the balance of the immune system and for allowing the monitoring of the astronaut’s health during long-term missions. APHRODITE will enable human space exploration because it fills this void that affects both missions in LEO and future missions to the Moon and Mars. Its scientific objectives are the design, production, testing, and in-orbit demonstration of a compact, reusable, and reconfigurable system for performing the real-time analysis of oral fluid samples in manned space missions. In the frame of this project, a crew member onboard the ISS will employ APHRODITE to measure the selected target analytes, cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), in oral fluid, in four (plus one additional desired session) separate experiment sessions. The paper addresses the design of the main subsystems of the analytical device and the preliminary results obtained during the first implementations of the device subsystems and testing measurements on Earth. In particular, the system design and the experiment data output of the lab-on-chip photosensors and of the front-end readout electronics are reported in detail along with preliminary chemical tests for the duplex competitive CL-immunoassay for the simultaneous detection of cortisol and DHEA-S. Different applications also on Earth are envisaged for the APHRODITE device, as it will be suitable for point-of-care testing applications (e.g., emergency medicine, bioterrorism, diagnostics in developing countries, etc.).
Electrochemical DNA Cleavage Sensing for EcoRV Activity and Inhibition with an ERGO Electrode
Authors: Oh Da Eun , Kim Hyun Beom , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: January 2024

An electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) electrode-based electrochemical assay was developed for rapid, sensitive, and straightforward analysis of both activity and inhibition of the endonuclease EcoRV. The procedure uses a DNA substrate designed for EcoRV, featuring a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) region labeled with methylene blue (MB) and a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) region immobilized on the ERGO surface. The ERGO electrode, immobilized with the DNA substrate, was subsequently exposed to a sample containing EcoRV. Upon enzymatic hydrolysis, the cleaved dsDNA fragments were detached from the ERGO surface, leading to a decrease in the MB concentration near the electrode. This diminished the electron transfer efficiency for MB reduction, resulting in a decreased reduction current. This assay demonstrates excellent specificity and high sensitivity, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 9.5 × 10−3 U mL−1. Importantly, it can also measure EcoRV activity in the presence of aurintricarboxylic acid, a known inhibitor, highlighting its potential for drug discovery and clinical diagnostic applications.
Influence of Strategic Crisis Communication on Public Perceptions during Public Health Crises: Insights from YouTube Chinese Media
Authors: Sun Dan , Li Yiping
Published: January 2024

Crisis communication plays a crucial role in preserving the national reputation during significant national crises. From the perspective of Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT), this research paper analyzed over 1,790,816 YouTube comments from Chinese-speaking audiences, using sentiment analysis alongside the Difference-in-Differences (DiD) model, in order to investigate the influence of strategic crisis communication on public perceptions during public health crises. The study findings indicate that during this public health crisis, YouTube Chinese media, whose audience mainly consists of overseas Chinese-speaking users, primarily incorporated the enhancing strategies, succeeded by the diminish strategies, with limited application of deny strategies, while the use of rebuild strategies was virtually absent in this context. In addition, the research analysis confirms that Chinese media effectively increased the public’s positive perceptions of crisis events through crisis communication. Particularly, enhancing strategies proved most effective in improving public perceptions, followed by diminish strategies. In contrast, deny strategies failed to influence public perceptions of the crisis, and rebuild strategies demonstrated a negative impact on public perception. Thus, the research findings of this paper extend essential insights for effectively managing potential public health crises in the future.
Psychological Distress in Low-Income and Economically Marginalized Populations in India: Protective and Risk Factors
Authors: Singh Dipti , Nasir Shagufta , Sharma Juhi , Giménez-Llort Lydia , Shahnawaz Mohammad Ghazi
Published: January 2024

Studies at the juncture of development economics and public health take on considerable responsibility in addressing inequality and related mental health distress. Mental healthcare in economically marginalized populations requires depicting the linkages between socioeconomic status and psychological distress. In the present work, a sequential mixed-methods design was used to study 190 people in such communities in India. Gender-dependent psychological distress was found according to the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10) with moderate distress in women (M = 26.30, SD = 9.15) and mild distress in men (M = 21.04, SD = 8.35). Regression analysis indicated that gender significantly predicted psychological distress, followed by age, marital status, and the level of education of the head of the family. The Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of semi-structured interviews of the six women who scored the highest on the distress scale unveiled three master themes: (1) manifestation of psychological distress, (2) contextual challenges, and (3) sources of strength and resilience. Overall, participants reported a lack of resources, community violence, gender discrimination, and widespread substance use as major contributors to the ongoing distress. These findings can pave the way for future studies to expand beyond independent economic indicators and curate clinical interventions for culturally competent mental healthcare.
Molecular Atlas of HER2+ Breast Cancer Cells Treated with Endogenous Ligands: Temporal Insights into Mechanisms of Trastuzumab Resistance
Authors: Mukund Kavitha , Alva-Ornelas Jackelyn A. , Maddox Adam L. , Murali Divya , Veraksa Darya , Saftics Andras , Tomsic Jerneja , Frankhouser David , Razo Meagan , Jovanovic-Talisman Tijana , Seewaldt Victoria L. , Subramaniam Shankar
Published: January 2024

Trastuzumab therapy in HER2+ breast cancer patients has mixed success owing to acquired resistance to therapy. A detailed understanding of downstream molecular cascades resulting from trastuzumab resistance is yet to emerge. In this study, we investigate the cellular mechanisms underlying acquired resistance using trastuzumab-sensitive and -resistant cancer cells (BT474 and BT474R) treated with endogenous ligands EGF and HRG across time. We probe early receptor organization through microscopy and signaling events through multiomics measurements and assess the bioenergetic state through mitochondrial measurements. Integrative analyses of our measurements reveal significant alterations in EGF-treated BT474 HER2 membrane dynamics and robust downstream activation of PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signaling. EGF-treated BT474R shows a sustained interferon-independent activation of the IRF1/STAT1 cascade, potentially contributing to trastuzumab resistance. Both cell lines exhibit temporally divergent metabolic demands and HIF1A-mediated stress responses. BT474R demonstrates inherently increased mitochondrial activity. HRG treatment in BT474R leads to a pronounced reduction in AR expression, affecting downstream lipid metabolism with implications for treatment response. Our results provide novel insights into mechanistic changes underlying ligand treatment in BT474 and BT474R and emphasize the pivotal role of endogenous ligands. These results can serve as a framework for furthering the understanding of trastuzumab resistance, with therapeutic implications for women with acquired resistance.