bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taiwan Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Consensus on mCRC Treatment
Authors: Chen Hong-Hwa , Ke Tao-Wei , Huang Ching-Wen , Jiang Jeng-Kae , Chen Chou-Chen , Hsieh Yao-Yu , Teng Hao-Wei , Lin Bo-Wen , Liang Yi-Hsin , Su Yu-Li , Hsu Hung-Chih , Kuan Feng-Che , Chou Yenn-Hwei , Lin Johnson , Lin Ben-Ren , Chang Yu-Yao , Wang Jaw-Yuan
Published: November 2021

Therapeutic options for metastatic CRC (mCRC) have changed significantly in recent years, greatly increasing the complexity of therapeutic decision-making. Although oncology guidelines have helped improve the care process, guidelines may also limit the flexibility to individualize in-clinic decision-making. This consensus paper addresses specific gaps in the current international guidelines to assist Taiwanese colon and rectal experts make specific therapeutic choices. Over 3 years and three meetings with selected experts on “real-world” Taiwanese practice patterns for mCRC, consensus was achieved. The experts also discussed specific questions during in-depth one-on-one consultation. Outcomes of the discussion were then correlated with published evidence by an independent medical writer. The final consensus includes clinically implementable recommendations to provide guidance in treating Taiwanese mCRC patients. The consensus includes criteria for defining fit and unfit intensive treatment patients, treatment goals, treatment considerations of molecular profiles, treatment consideration, and optimal treatment choices between different patient archetypes, including optimal treatment options based on RAS, BRAF, and microsatellite instability (MSI) status. This consensus paper is the second in the Taiwan Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (TSCRS) Consensus series to address unmet gaps in guideline recommendations in lieu of Taiwanese mCRC management. Meticulous discussions with experts, the multidisciplinary nature of the working group, and the final drafting of the consensus by independent medical professionals have contributed to the strong scientific value of this consensus.
Insights Into the Biological Role of NEDD4L E3 Ubiquitin Ligase in Human Cancers
Authors: Xie Shangdan , Xia Lu , Song Yizuo , Liu Hejing , Wang Zhi-wei , Zhu Xueqiong
Published: November 2021

Neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated 4-like (NEDD4L) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that has been reported to participate in multiple cellular procedures by regulating of substrate ubiquitination and subsequent protein degradation. A great amount of evidence has demonstrated that NEDD4L mainly functions as a tumor suppressor in most cancer types, while it also acts as an oncogene in a few cancers. In this review, we summarize the potential role of NEDD4L in carcinogenesis and the related underlying molecular mechanism to improve our understanding of its functions in the tumorigenesis of human malignancies. Developing clinical drugs targeting NEDD4L could be a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer therapy in the future.
A Pilot Study Examining Body Composition Classification Differences Between Body Mass Index and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis in Children With High Levels of Physical Activity
Authors: Farbo David J. , Rhea Deborah J.
Published: November 2021

Background: Body mass index (BMI) is frequently labeled as “flawed” in assessing obesity since it cannot differentiate between muscle and fat leading to misclassifications of healthy individuals. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) may be a more accurate indicator of obesity since it can distinguish the difference between muscle and fat in children. This pilot study investigated discrepancies between BMI and BIA body composition classifications in children with high levels of physical activity.

Methods: Participants were selected from three elementary schools (N = 380, K = 76, 1st = 64, 2nd = 62, 3rd = 61, 4th = 83, and 5th = 34) receiving 60 min of outdoor, unstructured play daily. BIA scales were used to collect each child's body fat percentage and BMI score, then those numbers were categorized by BIA and BMI normative values as either underweight, healthy, overweight, or obese.

Results: Overall, 26% of the students were classified differently when using the normative classifications for BMI and BIA, with the largest discrepancy found in the overweight category at 38%. Similar inconsistencies were found when students were divided as younger (42%) vs older students (36%), and males (40%) vs. females (35%).

Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrated that there is a significant difference in how BMI and BIA discriminate between the different body composition categories. BIA consistently shows to be a more accurate tool in assessing obesity rates in children since it directly measures body fat.
Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality in Advanced Aged Mothers—Maternal Age Is Not an Independent Risk Factor for Infants Born Very Preterm
Authors: Nourkami-Tutdibi Nasenien , Tutdibi Erol , Faas Theresa , Wagenpfeil Gudrun , Draper Elizabeth S. , Johnson Samantha , Cuttini Marina , Rafei Rym El , Seppänen Anna-Veera , Mazela Jan , Maier Rolf Felix , Nuytten Alexandra , Barros Henrique , Rodrigues Carina , Zeitlin Jennifer , Zemlin Michael
Published: November 2021

Background: As childbearing is postponed in developed countries, maternal age (MA) has increased over decades with an increasing number of pregnancies between age 35–39 and beyond. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of advanced (AMA) and very advanced maternal age (vAMA) on morbidity and mortality of very preterm (VPT) infants.

Methods: This was a population-based cohort study including infants from the “Effective Perinatal Intensive Care in Europe” (EPICE) cohort. The EPICE database contains data of 10329 VPT infants of 8,928 mothers, including stillbirths and terminations of pregnancy. Births occurred in 19 regions in 11 European countries. The study included 7,607 live born infants without severe congenital anomalies. The principal exposure variable was MA at delivery. Infants were divided into three groups [reference 18–34 years, AMA 35–39 years and very(v) AMA ≥40 years]. Infant mortality was defined as in-hospital death before discharge home or into long-term pediatric care. The secondary outcome included a composite of mortality and/or any one of the following major neonatal morbidities: (1) moderate-to-severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia; (2) severe brain injury defined as intraventricular hemorrhage and/or cystic periventricular leukomalacia; (3) severe retinopathy of prematurity; and (4) severe necrotizing enterocolitis.

Results: There was no significant difference between MA groups regarding the use of surfactant therapy, postnatal corticosteroids, rate of neonatal sepsis or PDA that needed pharmacological or surgical intervention. Infants of AMA/vAMA mothers required significantly less mechanical ventilation during NICU stay than infants born to non-AMA mothers, but there was no significant difference in length of mechanical ventilation and after stratification by gestational age group. Adverse neonatal outcomes in VPT infants born to AMA/vAMA mothers did not differ from infants born to mothers below the age of 35. Maternal age showed no influence on mortality in live-born VPT infants.

Conclusion: Although AMA/vAMA mothers encountered greater pregnancy risk, the mortality and morbidity of VPT infants was independent of maternal age.
Oral Mycobiome Differences in Various Spatial Niches With and Without Severe Early Childhood Caries
Authors: Cui Yuqi , Wang Yinuo , Zhang Yuwen , Pang Liangyue , Zhou Yan , Lin Huancai , Tao Ye
Published: November 2021

Purpose: Severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) is a microbe-mediated disease with tooth hard tissue destruction. However, the role of the fungal community in various ecological niches of deciduous dental caries has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to analyze the differences of mycobiome in diverse spatial niches with and without S-ECC.

Method: A total of 48 samples were obtained from 8 S-ECC children (SE group) and 8 caries-free children (CF group) aged 4–5 years. Unstimulated saliva (S), healthy supragingival plaque (FMIX), mixed plaque from decayed teeth (SMIX) and carious lesion (DMIX) samples were collected. The ITS2 region of the fungi was amplified and sequenced using the Ion S5™XL platform.

Results: A total of 281 species were identified. Candida albicans showed relatively higher abundance in S-ECC children, while Alternaria alternata and Bipolaris sorokiniana were more enriched in CF group. In this study, the relative abundance of C. albicans in CF.FMIX (0.4%), SE.FMIX (12.5%), SE.SMIX (24.0%), and SE.DMIX (37.2%) increased successively. Significant differences of fungal species richness and diversity were observed between SE.FMIX-SE.SMIX, SE.FMIX-SE.DMIX (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The diversity of fungal communities in S-ECC children showed significant differences in various spatial niches of primary teeth. The richness of C. albicans was closely related to the caries states and depth, suggesting that it may play a crucial role in caries pathogenicity.
9-PAHSA Improves Cardiovascular Complications by Promoting Autophagic Flux and Reducing Myocardial Hypertrophy in Db/Db Mice
Authors: Wang Yan-Mei , Mi Shou-Ling , Jin Hong , Guo Qi-Lin , Yu Zhong-Yu , Wang Jian-Tao , Zhang Xiao-Ming , Zhang Qian , Wang Na-Na , Huang Yan-Yan , Zhou Hou-Guang , Guo Jing-Chun
Published: November 2021

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a common and severe complication of diabetes. There is a large need to identify the effective and safety strategies on diabetic cardiovascular disease (DCVD). 9-PAHSA is a novel endogenous fatty acid, and has been reported to reduce blood glucose levels and attenuate inflammation. We aim to evaluate the effects of 9-PAHSA on DCVD and investigate the possible mechanisms underlying it. Firstly, serum 9-PAHSA levels in human were detected by HPLC-MS/MS analysis. Then 9-PAHSA was synthesized and purified. The synthesized 9-PAHSA was gavaged to db/db mice with 50 mg/kg for 4 weeks. The carotid arterial plaque and cardiac structure was assessed by ultrasound. Cardiac autophagy was tested by western blot analysis, electron microscope and iTRAQ. The results showed that 9-PAHSA, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), was significantly lower than that in non-diabetic subjects. Administration of 9-PAHSA for 2 weeks reduced blood glucose levels. Ultrasound observed that continue administration of 9-PAHSA for 4 weeks ameliorated carotid vascular calcification, and attenuated myocardial hypertrophy and dysfunction in db/db mice. Electron microscopy showed continue 9-PAHSA treatment significantly increased autolysosomes, while dramatically decreased greases in the myocardial cells of the db/db mice. Moreover, iTRAQ analysis exhibited that continue 9-PAHSA treatment upregulated BAG3 and HSPB8. Furthermore, western blot analysis confirmed that 9-PAHSA down-regulated Akt/mTOR and activated PI3KIII/BECN1 complex in diabetic myocardium. Thus, 9-PAHSA benefits DCVD in diabetic mice by ameliorating carotid vascular calcification, promoting autophagic flux and reducing myocardial hypertrophy.
The Clinical Value of Chemotherapy Combined With Capecitabine in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer—A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zilin , Ma Kai , Li Jing , Guan Yeneng , Yang Chaobo , Yan Aqin , Zhu Hongda
Published: November 2021

Purpose: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most dangerous subtype of breast cancer with high rates of metastasis and recurrence. The efficacy of capecitabine in chemotherapy for TNBC is still controversial. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of capecitabine combining with standard, adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy for TNBC.

Methods: We systematically searched clinical studies through PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase, Wanfang Database, China Academic Journals (CNKI), and American Society of Clinical Oncology’s (ASCO) annual conference report. Studies were assessed for design and quality by the Cochrane risk of bias tool. A meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager to quantify the effect of capecitabine combined with standard, adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy on the disease-free survival (DFS) rate and overall survival (OS) rate of TNBC patients. Furthermore, safety analysis was performed to evaluate the adverse events.

Results: Twelve randomized controlled clinical trials involving totally 4854 TNBC patients were included, of which 2,214 patients received chemotherapy as control group, and 2,278 patients received capecitabine combining with chemotherapy. The results indicated that capecitabine could significantly improve the DFS [hazard ratio (HR) 0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71–0.90, P = 0.0003] and OS (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.74–0.93, P = 0.001). In subgroup analysis, the combination of capecitabine and cyclophosphamide exhibited a significant benefit in all outcomes (DFS HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.63–0.90, P = 0.002; OS HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.52–0.80, p < 0.0001). Additionally, defferent dose of capecitabine subgroup showed same significant effect on the results. Safety analysis showed that the addition of capecitabine was associated with a much higher risk of hand-foot syndrome, diarrhea and mucositis or stomatitis.

Conclusion: The results showed that adjuvant capecitabine could bring significant benefits on DFS and OS to unselected TNBC patients, the combination of capecitabine and cyclophosphamide could improve the survival rate of patients, although the addition of capecitabine could bring significant side effects such as hand foot syndrome (HFS) and diarrhea.
Experiment on Strength and Failure Behavior of Sandstone Containing Pre-Existing Cracks Under Brazilian Compression
Authors: Cao Xiaojian , Zhang Han , Yu Jun , Yu Tianchong , Qing Yuxing
Published: November 2021

Determination of the mechanical properties of rock containing pre-existing cracks under tension condition is of great significance to understand the failure process of rock in engineering. This paper presents the experimental results of sandstone containing pre-existing cracks under Brazilian compression. The characteristics of the microcracks were analyzed by a scanning electron microscope. The results show that the rock containing pre-existing cracks has an obvious anisotropic characteristic. When the crack inclination is 45°, the rock has the minimum tensile strength and the weakest axial deformation resistance.
Avoiding Crowded Places During COVID-19: Common Sense or a Complex Strategic Decision?
Authors: Stroom Martijn , Eichholtz Piet , Kok Nils
Published: November 2021

Introduction:Following a period of strict lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic, most countries introduced policies in which citizens were expected to avoid crowded places using common sense, as advised by the WHO. We argue that the ambiguity in the recommendation to “avoid crowded places” implicitly forces individuals to make a complex strategic decision.

Methods:Using a Dutch representative sample of 1,048 participants [42% male, mean age=43.78years (SD=12.53), we examine the effect of context on the decision to visit a hypothetical recreational hotspot under the policy recommendation to “avoid crowded places.” We randomize four levels of context on the crowdedness “on the streets” (no context, low, medium, and high context). Subsequently, participants are asked to estimate the percentage of others going out in the same situation. Finally, we assess the impact of a selection of personal characteristics on the likelihood of visiting a crowded place.

Results:Respondents are proportionally more likely to go in a low context and high context, compared to no context (diff=0.121,p<0.000, and diff=0.034,p<0.05, respectively) and middle context (diff=0.125,p<0.000, and diff=0.037,p<0.05, respectively). Low context information also decreases the expectation of others going out (−2.63%,z=4.68,p<0.000). High context information increases the expected percentage of others going out (significant only for medium to high context; 2.94%,z=7.34,p<0.001). Furthermore, we show that education, age, and health and risk attitude are all predictive of the likelihood to visit a crowded place, notwithstanding the context.

Discussion:Although there is a strong inclination to avoid crowded places during the COVID-19 pandemic (81%), we find two context-driven exceptions: when people expect to avoid crowded spots (in the “low” context, i.e., strategical decision-making) and when people expect others to go (social influence). The freedom provided by ambiguous public policy is implicitly asking more from the population than it initially seems. “Use your common sense” is often the accompanied advice, but our results show that more and better information concerning the context is essential to enable us to make an optimal decision for ourselves, and for society.
Effects of Electroacupuncture Combined With Psychological Intervention on Depressive Status and Contingent Negative Variation in Patients With Internet Addiction Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Peng Wei , Wang Yang , Hao Qinghong , Wang Jun , Chen Yalin , Qiu Mimi , Tu Yang , Li Hui , Zhu Tianmin
Published: November 2021

Background: Depressive symptoms often accompany people with Internet addiction syndrome (IAD). Acupuncture has been found to have significant advantages in improving the severity and depressive symptoms of IAD. Contingent negative variation (CNV) is a common method to explore the mechanism of neurophysiology.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to observe the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA), psychological intervention (PI), and comprehensive intervention (CI) in the treatment of depression in Internet addiction disorder (IAD), and to observe the changes of contingent negative variation (CNV) in each group.

Methods: One hundred and twenty subjects diagnosed with IAD were randomly assigned to the EA group, the PI group, or the CI group. They received EA, PI, or a combination of EA and PI for 40 days. The Internet Addiction Test (IAT), the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), and the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) were evaluated for all subjects at baseline, 20th, and 40th days of treatment, while CNV data were collected at baseline and 40th days of treatment.

Results: Three treatments effectively reduced IAT, SDS, and HAMD scores, and the intergroup comparison showed that CI was superior to EA, while EA was superior to PI. CNV results indicated that the CNV amplitude increased in all three groups of IAD patients after treatment. The CNV latency of point A and A-S2' wave area of the EA group and the CI group did not change significantly after treatment. Only the A-S2' wave area of the PI group increased significantly compared with the baseline period. In addition, IAD's IAT score was positively correlated with SDS and HAMD score at baseline but negatively correlated with CNV latency. After treatment, only the change of HAMD score in the CI group was negatively correlated with amplitude.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrate the efficacy of acupuncture and psychological intervention in the treatment of IAD from an electrophysiological perspective. Simultaneously, the increase in CNV amplitude might be the underlying neurophysiological mechanism by which CI improves depression and cognitive function in IAD patients.

Clinical Trial Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02362698.
Recent Perceived Stress, Amygdala Reactivity to Acute Psychosocial Stress, and Alcohol and Cannabis Use in Adolescents and Young Adults With Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Le Vanessa , Kirsch Dylan E. , Tretyak Valeria , Weber Wade , Strakowski Stephen M. , Lippard Elizabeth T. C.
Published: November 2021

Background: Psychosocial stress negatively affects the clinical course of bipolar disorder. Studies primarily focused on adults with bipolar disorder suggest the impact of stress is progressive, i.e., stress response sensitizes with age. Neural mechanisms underlying stress sensitization are unknown. As stress-related mechanisms contribute to alcohol/substance use disorders, variation in stress response in youth with bipolar disorder may contribute to development of co-occurring alcohol/substance use disorders. This study investigated relations between psychosocial stress, amygdala reactivity, and alcohol and cannabis use in youth with bipolar disorder, compared to typically developing youth.

Methods: Forty-two adolescents/young adults [19 with bipolar disorder, 23 typically developing, 71% female, agemean ± SD = 21 ± 2 years] completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Daily Drinking Questionnaire modified for heaviest drinking week, and a modified Montreal Imaging Stress functional MRI Task. Amygdala activation was measured for both the control and stress conditions. Main effects of group, condition, total PSS, and their interactions on amygdala activation were modeled. Relationships between amygdala response to acute stress with recent alcohol/cannabis use were investigated.

Results: Greater perceived stress related to increased right amygdala activation in response to the stress, compared to control, condition in bipolar disorder, but not in typically developing youth (group × condition × PSS interaction, p = 0.02). Greater amygdala reactivity to acute stress correlated with greater quantity and frequency of alcohol use and frequency of cannabis use in bipolar disorder.

Conclusion: Recent perceived stress is associated with changes in amygdala activation during acute stress with amygdala reactivity related to alcohol/cannabis use in youth with bipolar disorder.
Using a Co-design Approach to Create Tools to Facilitate Physical Activity in Children With Physical Disabilities
Authors: Bolster Eline A. M. , Gessel Christa van , Welten Maxime , Hermsen Sander , Lugt Remko van der , Kotte Elles , Essen Anita van , Bloemen Manon A. T.
Published: November 2021

Introduction: There is a lack of effective interventions available for Pediatric Physical Therapists (PPTs) to promote a physically active lifestyle in children with physical disabilities. Participatory design methods (co-design) may be helpful in generating insights and developing intervention prototypes for facilitating a physically active lifestyle in children with physical disabilities (6–12 years).

Materials and methods: A multidisciplinary development team of designers, developers, and researchers engaged in a co-design process–together with parents, PPTs, and other relevant stakeholders (such as the Dutch Association of PPTs and care sports connectors). In this design process, the team developed prototypes for interventions during three co-creation sessions, four one-week design sprint, living-lab testing and two triangulation sessions. All available co-design data was structured and analyzed by three researchers independently resulting in themes for facilitating physical activity.

Results: The data rendered two specific outcomes, (1) knowledge cards containing the insights collected during the co-design process, and (2) eleven intervention prototypes. Based on the generated insights, the following factors seem important when facilitating a physically active lifestyle: a) stimulating self-efficacy; b) stimulating autonomy; c) focusing on possibilities; d) focusing on the needs of the individual child; e) collaborating with stakeholders; f) connecting with a child's environment; and g) meaningful goal setting.

Conclusion: This study shows how a co-design process can be successfully applied to generate insights and develop interventions in pediatric rehabilitation. The designed prototypes facilitate the incorporation of behavioral change techniques into pediatric rehabilitation and offer new opportunities to facilitate a physically active lifestyle in children with physical disabilities by PPTs. While promising, further studies should examine the feasibility and effectivity of these prototypes.
Educational Robotics and Tangible Devices for Promoting Computational Thinking
Authors: Funk Matthias G. , Cascalho Jose Manuel , Santos Ana Isabel , Mendes Armando B.
Published: November 2021

Recently, efforts have been made to add programming activities to the curriculum that promote computational thinking and foster 21st-century digital skills. One of the programming modalities is the use of Tangible Programming Languages (TPL), used in activities with 4+ year old children. In this review, we analyze solutions proposed for TPL in different contexts crossing them with non-TPL solutions, like Graphical Programming Languages (GPL). We start to characterize features of language interaction, their use, and what learning activities are associated with them. Then, in a diagram, we show a relation between the complexity of the languages with factors such as target age and output device types. We provide an analysis considering the type of input (e.g., TPL versus GPL) and output devices (e.g., physical robot versus graphical simulation) and evaluate their contribution to further insights about the general trends with respect to educational robotic systems. Finally, we discuss the opportunities to extend and improve TPLs based on the different solutions identified.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: Epidemiology, Physiopathology, Clinical Manifestation and Diagnostic
Authors: Sarmento Ayane Cristine Alves , Costa Ana Paula Ferreira , Vieira-Baptista Pedro , Giraldo Paulo César , Eleutério José , Gonçalves Ana Katherine
Published: November 2021

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a term used to define a compilation of signs and symptoms arising from decreased estrogenic stimulation of the vulvovaginal and lower urinary tract. Among 27–84% of women in postmenopausal are affected for symptoms of GSM, and these can unquestionably impair health, sexual function, consequently the quality of life of these women. The main signs and symptoms of GSM include, among others, burning, irritation, vulvovaginal dryness, dyspareunia, urinary symptoms of urgency, dysuria, or recurrent urinary tract infection. The diagnosis can be made through anamnesis, questionnaires, physical exams, and, sometimes, complementary exams. Objective vaginal assessment is essential and can be complemented by using the Vaginal Health Index (VHI), Vaginal Maturation Index (VMI), or vaginal pH measurement. The acknowledgment of this condition by health professionals is crucial for its identification and proper management and exclusion of other conditions that make a differential diagnosis with it.
Late-Onset Ileocutaneous Fistula Eight Years After Plug Repair With Polypropylene Mesh: A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Jiankang , Hu Zeming , Lin Xuan , Chen Bin
Published: November 2021

Introduction: As one of the short-term complications after inguinal hernia repair, mesh infection frequently occurs but rarely leads to ileocutaneous fistula. We present a rare case of ileocutaneous fistula 8 years after inguinal hernia plug repair with polypropylene mesh.

Case Presentation: The patient was a 67-year-old male who underwent a plug repair with polypropylene mesh of the right inguinal hernia. Eight years after the primary repair, skin ulceration with pus presented in the right groin area, and the final diagnosis was enterocutaneous fistula. According to laparoscopic exploration, the ileum below the fistula closely adhered to the abdominal wall. After gently separating the bowel loop, a defect area of about 2 × 3 cm was observed on the surface of the ileum. In laparotomy, the plug was found embedded in the ileum and then was completely removed, and an ileum side-to-side anastomosis was performed. The patient was discharged 2 weeks after the surgery, and follow-up at the sixth month revealed complete healing of the wound and no evidence of hernia recurrence.

Conclusion: Late-onset ileocutaneous fistula should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients who present inflammation and abscess formation after hernia repair. Besides, for patients with suspected intestinal fistula after hernia repair, laparoscopic exploration should be given priority, and the mesh removal approach should be tailored according to the results of laparoscopic exploration.
Oncogenic Viruses as Entropic Drivers of Cancer Evolution
Authors: Tempera Italo , Lieberman Paul M.
Published: November 2021

Viral infection is an indisputable causal factor for nearly 17% of all human cancers. However, the diversity and complexity of oncogenic mechanisms raises new questions as to the mechanistic role of viruses in cancer. Classical viral oncogenes have been identified for all tumor-associated viruses. These oncogenes can have multiple oncogenic activities that may or may not be utilized in a particular tumor cell. In addition, stochastic events, like viral mutation and integration, as well as heritable host susceptibilities and immune deficiencies are also implicated in tumorigenesis. A more contemporary view of tumor biology highlights the importance of evolutionary forces that select for phenotypes better adapted to a complex and changing environment. Given the challenges of prioritizing singular mechanistic causes, it may be necessary to integrate concepts from evolutionary theory and systems biology to better understand viral cancer-driving forces. Here, we propose that viral infection provides a biological “entropy” that increases genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity, accelerating the main driving forces of cancer cell evolution. Viruses can also influence the evolutionary selection criteria by altering the tumor microenvironment and immune signaling. Utilizing concepts from cancer cell evolution, population genetics, thermodynamics, and systems biology may provide new perspectives on viral oncogenesis and identify novel therapeutic strategies for treating viruses and cancer.
Sound Reduction of Ventilation Ducts through Walls: Experimental Results and Updated Models
Authors: Nilsson Erik , Vardaxis Nikolaos-Georgios , Ménard Sylvain , Bard Hagberg Delphine
Published: November 2021

Ventilation ducts can have a negative effect on the sound reduction index between two rooms if they pass through the dividing structure without treatments. The overall sound reduction of a ventilation duct is dependent on several factors including the transmission loss when sound is breaking in and out from the duct. This study aims to model the sound reduction of a combined system with a separating wall and a ventilation duct through it. Three walls, characterized according to ISO 717-1, are combined with three different ventilation ducts, two circular and one rectangular with different dimensions. Laboratory measurement data are used to determine the sound reduction of the different configurations and the type of treatments needed for each configuration. A proposed model with existing theory for describing sound transmission losses of circular and rectangular ventilation ducts predicts the shape of the measurement data for many frequency bands. A new theory part is developed through an iterative process for circular ducts, which is based on measurements with previous methods and studies as a guide because the existing prediction scheme is somewhat perplexing. For rectangular ducts, the existing theory has been updated to better match measurement data. The application of the proposed theory and model in this article shows similar results when compared to measurements. The difference in weighted sound reduction index between developed theories and measurement data is 0–1 dB for every configuration.
A Multi-Objective Coverage Path Planning Algorithm for UAVs to Cover Spatially Distributed Regions in Urban Environments
Authors: Majeed Abdul , Hwang Seong Oun
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a multi-objective coverage flight path planning algorithm that finds minimum length, collision-free, and flyable paths for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in three-dimensional (3D) urban environments inhabiting multiple obstacles for covering spatially distributed regions. In many practical applications, UAVs are often required to fully cover multiple spatially distributed regions located in the 3D urban environments while avoiding obstacles. This problem is relatively complex since it requires the optimization of both inter (e.g., traveling from one region/city to another) and intra-regional (e.g., within a region/city) paths. To solve this complex problem, we find the traversal order of each area of interest (AOI) in the form of a coarse tour (i.e., graph) with the help of an ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm by formulating it as a traveling salesman problem (TSP) from the center of each AOI, which is subsequently optimized. The intra-regional path finding problem is solved with the integration of fitting sensors’ footprints sweeps (SFS) and sparse waypoint graphs (SWG) in the AOI. To find a path that covers all accessible points of an AOI, we fit fewer, longest, and smooth SFSs in such a way that most parts of an AOI can be covered with fewer sweeps. Furthermore, the low-cost traversal order of each SFS is computed, and SWG is constructed by connecting the SFSs while respecting the global and local constraints. It finds a global solution (i.e., inter + intra-regional path) without sacrificing the guarantees on computing time, number of turning maneuvers, perfect coverage, path overlapping, and path length. The results obtained from various representative scenarios show that proposed algorithm is able to compute low-cost coverage paths for UAV navigation in urban environments.
A Substructure Synthesis Method with Nonlinear ROM Including Geometric Nonlinearities
Authors: An Chao , Meng Yang , Xie Changchuan , Yang Chao
Published: November 2021

Large flexible aircraft are often accompanied by large deformations during flight leading to obvious geometric nonlinearities in response. Geometric nonlinear dynamic response simulations based on full-order models often carry unbearable computing burden. Meanwhile, geometric nonlinearities are caused by large flexible wings in most cases and the deformation of fuselages is small. Analyzing the whole aircraft as a nonlinear structure will greatly increase the analysis complexity and cost. The analysis of complicated aircraft structures can be more efficient and simplified if subcomponents can be divided and treated. This paper aims to develop a hybrid interface substructure synthesis method by expanding the nonlinear reduced-order model (ROM) with the implicit condensation and expansion (ICE) approach, to estimate the dynamic transient response for aircraft structures including geometric nonlinearities. A small number of linear modes are used to construct a nonlinear ROM for substructures with large deformation, and linear substructures with small deformation can also be assembled comprehensively. The method proposed is compatible with finite element method (FEM), allowing for realistic engineering model analysis. Numerical examples with large flexible aircraft models are calculated to validate the accuracy and efficiency of this method contrasted with nonlinear FEM.
Implications of Experimental Design on Predicting Economic Optimum Nitrogen Rates in Rice
Authors: Atwill Richard Lee , Krutz Larry Jason , Spencer Gene Dave , Bond Jason A. , Reddy Kambham Raja , Gore Jeffrey , Walker Timothy W. , Boykin Debbie
Published: November 2021

Nitrogen (N) response studies in rice (Oryza sativa L.) are conducted to provide grower recommendations with economically optimum N rates (EONRs). This study was conducted to determine if experimental design alters the predicted EONR for rice. The effects of experimental design and soil texture on predicted EONR were investigated near Arcola, Greenville, Minter City, and Shaw, MS on soil textures ranging from sandy loam to clay. The response of rice grain yield to seven N fertilizer rates was fitted with a quadratic equation, and the quadratic trend was compared between the randomized complete block (RCB) and split-plot (SP) designs. No differences were detected between RCB and SP designs for rice grain yield response to N rate; therefore, either design, RCB or SP, would be appropriate for use in N response studies for rice.
Introducing Alloys: A Journal for Fundamental and Applied Research
Authors: Stanford Nikki
Published: November 2021

Humans have made alloys for thousands of years [...]
The Glucocorticoid PYED-1 Disrupts Mature Biofilms of Candida spp. and Inhibits Hyphal Development in Candida albicans
Authors: Esposito Anna , Migliaccio Antonella , Iula Vita Dora , Zarrilli Raffaele , Guaragna Annalisa , De Gregorio Eliana
Published: November 2021

Invasive Candida infections have become a global public health problem due to the increase of Candida species resistant against antifungal therapeutics. The glucocorticoid PYED-1 (pregnadiene-11-hydroxy-16α,17α-epoxy-3,20-dione-1) has antimicrobial activity against various bacterial taxa. Consequently, it might be considered for the treatment of Candida infections. The antifungal activity of PYED-1 was evaluated against several fungal strains that were representative of the five species that causes the majority of Candida infections—namely, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei. PYED-1 exhibited a weak antifungal activity and a fungistatic effect on all five Candida species. On the other hand, PYED-1 exhibited a good anti-biofilm activity, and was able to eradicate the preformed biofilms of all Candida species analyzed. Moreover, PYED-1 inhibited germ tube and hyphae formation of C. albicans and reduced adhesion of C. albicans to abiotic surfaces by up to 30%.
Determination of Tetracycline, Oxytetracycline, Sulfadiazine, Norfloxacin, and Enrofloxacin in Swine Manure Using a Coupled Method of On-Line Solid-Phase Extraction with the UHPLC–DAD
Authors: Gaballah Mohamed S. , Li Xin , Zhang Zijia , Al-Anazi Abdulaziz , Sun Hui , Sobhi Mostafa , Philbert Mperejekumana , Ghorab Mohamed A. , Guo Jianbin , Dong Renjie
Published: November 2021

The use of various veterinary antibiotics (VAs) in animal husbandry raises serious concerns about the development of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics such as tetracycline, oxytetracycline, sulfadiazine, norfloxacin, and enrofloxacin are the most frequently used antimicrobial compounds in animal husbandry and generate large eco-toxicological effects; however, they are still difficult to determine in a complex matrix such as swine manure. This study has developed an effective method for detecting five VAs in swine manure using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Diode Array Detector (UHPLC–DAD) coupled with on-line solid-phase extraction (SPE). The results show that the mobile phase of ACN/0.01 M oxalic acid was the optimum at pH 3.0. VAs in a swine manure matrix were extracted using solid extraction buffer solution (T3) with 97.36% recovery. Sensitivity, accuracy, and precision were also evaluated. The validity study showed good linearity (R2 > 0.99). Limit of detection (LOD) was found to be from 0.1 to 0.42 µg mL−1 in the liquid fraction and from 0.032 to 0.58 µg g−1 dw in the solid fraction. The corresponding values of the limit of quantification (LOQ) ranged from 0.32 to 1.27 µg mL−1 for the liquid fraction and from 0.096 to 1.77 µg g−1 dw for the solid fraction. Therefore, the proposed method showed the potential applicability for detecting different antibiotic compounds from swine manure samples.
Containment of Phytoplasma-Associated Plant Diseases by Antibiotics and Other Antimicrobial Molecules
Authors: Bertaccini Assunta
Published: November 2021

Phytoplasmas are plant-pathogenic bacteria that infect many important crops and environmentally relevant plant species, causing serious economic and environmental losses worldwide. These bacteria, lacking a cell wall, are sensitive to antibiotics such as tetracyclines that affect protein synthesis mechanisms. Phytoplasma cultivation in axenic media has not been achieved for many strains; thus, the screening of antimicrobials must be performed using mainly in vivo materials. Some studies have investigated using in vitro phytoplasma-infected shoots, and several antimicrobials, including tetracyclines, have been tested. The screening of phytoplasma antimicrobials is important for the sustainable control of phytoplasma-associated diseases. The use of molecules with different modes of action such as ribosome inactivating proteins, plant hormones, and resistance inducers such as plasma-activated water, is advised, to avoid the use of antibiotics in agriculture and the possible emergence of resistant microbial strains.
Application of Polymeric Nanocarriers for Enhancing the Bioavailability of Antibiotics at the Target Site and Overcoming Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Le Hung , Karakasyan Carole , Jouenne Thierry , Le Cerf Didier , Dé Emmanuelle
Published: November 2021

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest threats to global health. Although the efforts in antibiotic drug discovery continue to play a pivotal role, this solution alone probably will not be enough to ensure the required level of infection control in the future. New strategies and innovative modes of action are desperately needed to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials. Accordingly, antibiotic delivery based on polymeric nanoparticles is one of the possible methods that has been recently explored to improve their pharmacokinetic profile. Through optimized access of antibiotics to their sites of action, nanocarriers can unlock the full potential of the antibiotic cargoes, extend the antimicrobial spectrum, and reduce the required dose of antibiotic while preserving efficacy. Additionally, the use of an antibiotic-loaded nanocarrier is also considered a steady solution as novel molecules can be continuously developed and incorporated into the delivery platform. This review describes the present state of polymeric nanocarriers in enhancing antibiotic treatment, including improved pharmacokinetic properties and restored antibiotic efficacy against drug-resistant bacteria. Additionally, the current challenges and the future direction of this field are discussed.
Dynamic Wind Turbine Blade Inspection Using Micro-Polarisation Spatial Phase Shift Digital Shearography
Authors: Li Zhiyao , Tokhi Mohammad Osman , Marks Ryan , Zheng Haitao , Zhao Zhanfang
Published: November 2021

Shearography, as a novel non-destructive evaluation technique, has shown notable ability in the detection of composite materials. However, in current shearography practices, the phase shifting and loading methods applied are mainly static. For instance, vacuum hood or force loading facilities are often used in phase-shifting shearography, and these are hard to realise with robotic control, especially for on-board inspection. In this study, a dynamic process for detecting defects in the subsurface of a wind turbine blade (WTB) using spatial phase shift with dynamic thermal loading was proposed. The WTB sample underwent a dynamic thermal loading operation, and its status is captured by a Michelson interferometric-based spatial phase shift digital shearography system using a pixelated micro-polarisation array sensor. The captured images were analysed in a 2D frequency domain and low-pass filtered for phase map acquisition. The initial phase maps underwent a window Fourier filtering process and were integrated to produce a video sequence for realisation of visualising the first derivative of the displacement in the process of thermal loading. The approach was tested in experimental settings and the results obtained were presented and discussed. A comparative assessment of the approach with shearography fringe pattern analysis and temporal phase shift technique is also presented and discussed.
Experimental Study of the Influence of Gas Flow Rate on Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Sieve Trays and Their Effect on CO2 Absorption
Authors: Almoslh Adel , Alobaid Falah , Heinze Christian , Epple Bernd
Published: November 2021

An experimental study was conducted in the sieve tray column to investigate the influence of gas flow rate on the hydrodynamic characteristics of the sieve tray, such as total tray pressure drop, wet tray pressure drop, dry tray pressure drop, clear liquid height, liquid holdup, and froth height. The hydrodynamic characteristics of the sieve tray were investigated for the gas/water system at different gas flow rates from 12 to 24 Nm3/h and at different pressures of 0.22, 0.24, and 0.26 MPa. In this study, a simulated waste gas was used that consisted of 30% CO2 and 70% air. The inlet volumetric flow rate of the water was 0.148 m3/h. The temperature of the inlet water was 19.5 °C. The results showed that the gas flow rate has a significant effect on the hydrodynamic characteristics of the tray. The authors investigated the effect of changing these hydrodynamic characteristics on the performance of a tray column used for CO2 capture.
Fast Drivable Areas Estimation with Multi-Task Learning for Real-Time Autonomous Driving Assistant
Authors: Lee Dong-Gyu
Published: November 2021

Autonomous driving is a safety-critical application that requires a high-level understanding of computer vision with real-time inference. In this study, we focus on the computational efficiency of an important factor by improving the running time and performing multiple tasks simultaneously for practical applications. We propose a fast and accurate multi-task learning-based architecture for joint segmentation of drivable area, lane line, and classification of the scene. An encoder–decoder architecture efficiently handles input frames through shared representation. A comprehensive understanding of the driving environment is improved by generalization and regularization from different tasks. The proposed method learns end-to-end through multi-task learning on a very challenging Berkeley Deep Drive dataset and shows its robustness for three tasks in autonomous driving. Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms other multi-task learning approaches in both speed and accuracy. The computational efficiency of the method was over 93.81 fps at inference, enabling execution in real-time.
Subclinical Atherosclerosis Progression in Obese Children with Relevant Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Can Be Assessed through Carotid Intima Media Thickness
Authors: Mihuta Monica-Simina , Paul Corina , Ciulpan Adrian , Dacca Farah , Velea Iulian Puiu , Mozos Ioana , Stoian Dana
Published: November 2021

Given the growing obesity rates among children, a more complete evaluation of their potential cardiometabolic risk is needed. Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), a marker of endothelial distress and a predictor of atherosclerotic progression in adulthood, may complete the day-to-day evaluation of children at risk. Multiple risk factors act as additional precipitant causes of atherosclerosis. We analyzed 60 patients aged 6–17 years old by measuring their CIMT using the Aixplorer MACH 30 echography machine automatic measurement software. All subjects were clinically and anamnestically assessed to identify risk factors. CIMT values are significantly higher in older children and boys. Over 20 kg weight gain during pregnancy and other at-risk disorders (p = 0.047), family history of cardiovascular risk (p = 0.049), hypertension (p = 0.012), and smoking (p = 0.015) are linked to increased CIMT. Our study also supports international data on artificial postnatal nutrition, high/low birth weight, and sedentary lifestyle being linked to increased CIMT. Significant correlations were detected between CIMT and the entire lipid panel. Weight excess and abdominal adiposity in children is clearly linked to increased CIMT. Moreover, waist circumference and TG/HDL-c are significant predictors of CIMT. Although each parameter of the lipid panel is correlated to CIMT, fasting glucose is not.