bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studying the Accuracy and Function of Different Thermometry Techniques for Measuring Body Temperature
Authors: Mah Aaron James , Ghazi Zadeh Leili , Khoshnam Tehrani Mahta , Askari Shahbaz , Gandjbakhche Amir H. , Shadgan Babak
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine which thermometry technique is the most accurate for regular measurement of body temperature. We compared seven different commercially available thermometers with a gold standard medical-grade thermometer (Welch-Allyn): four digital infrared thermometers (Wellworks, Braun, Withings, MOBI), one digital sublingual thermometer (Braun), one zero heat flux thermometer (3M), and one infrared thermal imaging camera (FLIR One). Thirty young healthy adults participated in an experiment that altered core body temperature. After baseline measurements, participants placed their feet in a cold-water bath while consuming cold water for 30 min. Subsequently, feet were removed and covered with a blanket for 30 min. Throughout the session, temperature was recorded every 10 min with all devices. The Braun tympanic thermometer (left ear) had the best agreement with the gold standard (mean error: 0.044 °C). The FLIR One thermal imaging camera was the least accurate device (mean error: −0.522 °C). A sign test demonstrated that all thermometry devices were significantly different than the gold standard except for the Braun tympanic thermometer (left ear). Our study showed that not all temperature monitoring techniques are equal, and suggested that tympanic thermometers are the most accurate commercially available system for the regular measurement of body temperature.
Soil Bacterial Community Shifts Are Driven by Soil Nutrient Availability along a Teak Plantation Chronosequence in Tropical Forests in China
Authors: Yu Zhi , Liang Kunnan , Huang Guihua , Wang Xianbang , Lin Mingping , Chen Yinglong , Zhou Zaizhi
Published: December 2021

Soil bacterial communities play crucial roles in ecosystem functions and biogeochemical cycles of fundamental elements and are sensitive to environmental changes. However, the response of soil bacterial communities to chronosequence in tropical ecosystems is still poorly understood. This study characterized the structures and co-occurrence patterns of soil bacterial communities in rhizosphere and bulk soils along a chronosequence of teak plantations and adjacent native grassland as control. Stand ages significantly shifted the structure of soil bacterial communities but had no significant impact on bacterial community diversity. Bacterial community diversity in bulk soils was significantly higher than that in rhizosphere soils. The number of nodes and edges in the bacterial co-occurrence network first increased and then decreased with the chronosequence. The number of strongly positive correlations per network was much higher than negative correlations. Available potassium, total potassium, and available phosphorus were significant factors influencing the structure of the bacterial community in bulk soils. In contrast, urease, total potassium, pH, and total phosphorus were significant factors affecting the structure of the bacterial community in the rhizosphere soils. These results indicate that available nutrients in the soil are the main drivers regulating soil bacterial community variation along a teak plantation chronosequence.
Preservation of Mitochondrial Coupling and Renal Function by Controlled Oxygenated Rewarming of Porcine Kidney Grafts
Authors: Zlatev Hristo , von Horn Charlotte , Minor Thomas
Published: December 2021

Background: Warm reperfusion after previous cold storage has been shown to have a negative impact on mitochondrial function of organ grafts. Here, we wanted to investigate whether a more controlled warming up of the cold graft by ex vivo machine perfusion with gradually elevated temperature from cold to normothermia (including comparison of two warming up protocols) prior to implantation would be effective in preventing mitochondrial dysfunction upon reperfusion. Methods: All experiments were conducted on porcine kidneys retrieved 15 min after cardiac arrest. After 18 h of cold storage in HTK solution (CS, n = 6), kidneys (n = 6) were subjected to 2 h of reconditioning machine perfusion starting with a hypothermic period followed by a gradual increase in perfusion temperature up to 35 °C (controlled oxygenated rewarming—COR). For a second group (n = 6), the slow warming up was begun instantly after connecting the graft onto the machine (iCOR). Functional recovery of all grafts was then observed upon normothermic reperfusion in vitro. At the conclusion of the experiments, tissue specimens were taken for immediate isolation and analysis of renal mitochondria. Results: COR resulted in a significantly and more than 3-fold increased glomerular filtration rate upon reperfusion, along with a significant higher tubular sodium reabsorption and lesser loss of glucose in comparison to the controls. Enzyme release (AST) was also massively reduced during the reperfusion period. Specific analysis at the mitochondrial level revealed significantly better coupling efficiency and spare respiratory capacity in the COR group compared to the cold storage group. Interestingly, additional experiments revealed that the omission of a hypothermic perfusion period did not deteriorate any of the results after COR, provided that the instant temperature increase from 10 to 35 °C was effectuated in the same controlled manner. Conclusion: Controlled rewarming after extended cold preservation effectively improves mitochondrial recovery upon reperfusion and early functional outcome of kidney grafts.
Role of Serum Amyloid A in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Related Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Shridas Preetha , Patrick Avery C. , Tannock Lisa R.
Published: December 2021

Epidemiological data positively correlate plasma serum amyloid A (SAA) levels with cardiovascular disease severity and mortality. Studies by several investigators have indicated a causal role for SAA in the development of atherosclerosis in animal models. Suppression of SAA attenuates the development of angiotensin II (AngII)-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation in mice. Thus, SAA is not just a marker for cardiovascular disease (CVD) development, but it is a key player. However, to consider SAA as a therapeutic target for these diseases, the pathway leading to its involvement needs to be understood. This review provides a brief description of the pathobiological significance of this enigmatic molecule. The purpose of this review is to summarize the data relevant to its role in the development of CVD, the pitfalls in SAA research, and unanswered questions in the field.
Insulin-Responsive Transcription Factors
Authors: Thiel Gerald , Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Rössler Oliver G.
Published: December 2021

The hormone insulin executes its function via binding and activating of the insulin receptor, a receptor tyrosine kinase that is mainly expressed in skeletal muscle, adipocytes, liver, pancreatic β-cells, and in some areas of the central nervous system. Stimulation of the insulin receptor activates intracellular signaling cascades involving the enzymes extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, protein kinase B/Akt, and phospholipase Cγ as signal transducers. Insulin receptor stimulation is correlated with multiple physiological and biochemical functions, including glucose transport, glucose homeostasis, food intake, proliferation, glycolysis, and lipogenesis. This review article focuses on the activation of gene transcription as a result of insulin receptor stimulation. Signal transducers such as protein kinases or the GLUT4-induced influx of glucose connect insulin receptor stimulation with transcription. We discuss insulin-responsive transcription factors that respond to insulin receptor activation and generate a transcriptional network executing the metabolic functions of insulin. Importantly, insulin receptor stimulation induces transcription of genes encoding essential enzymes of glycolysis and lipogenesis and inhibits genes encoding essential enzymes of gluconeogenesis. Overall, the activation or inhibition of insulin-responsive transcription factors is an essential aspect of orchestrating a wide range of insulin-induced changes in the biochemistry and physiology of insulin-responsive tissues.
Brain Imaging of the GLP-1 Receptor in Obesity Using 68Ga-NODAGA-Exendin-4 PET
Authors: Deden Laura N. , Booij Jan , Grandjean Joanes , Homberg Judith R. , Hazebroek Eric J. , Gotthardt Martin , Boss Marti
Published: December 2021

Stimulation of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors increases the insulin release in the pancreas during high glucose levels, and also stimulates a feeling of satiety. Likewise, synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonists derived from exendin are used successfully in the treatment of type-2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Interestingly, preclinical and clinical studies further suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists may decrease motor, behavioral, and cognitive symptoms in (animal models) Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease and may slow down neurodegeneration. These observations suggest stimulation of GLP-1 receptors in the brain. The GLP-1 positron emission tomography (PET) tracer 68Ga-NODAGA-exendin-4 has been developed and successfully used for imaging in humans. In an ongoing study on the effects of bariatric surgery on GLP-1 receptor expression, we performed 68Ga-NODAGA-exendin-4 PET in obese subjects. Here we evaluated whether GLP-1 receptor binding could be visualized in the central nervous system in 10 obese subjects (seven woman; body mass index: mean ± SD: 39 ± 4.4 kg/m2) before bariatric surgery. Although we observed clear uptake in the pituitary area (mean SUVmax 4.3 ± 2.3), we found no significant uptake in other parts of the brain. We conclude that 68Ga-NODAGA-exendin-4 PET cannot be used to analyze GLP-1 receptors in the brain of obese subjects.
Suppressing MDSC Recruitment to the Tumor Microenvironment by Antagonizing CXCR2 to Enhance the Efficacy of Immunotherapy
Authors: Bullock Kennady , Richmond Ann
Published: December 2021

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogenous population of cells derived from immature myeloid cells. These cells are often associated with poor responses to cancer therapy, including immunotherapy, in a variety of tumor types. The C-X-C chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) signaling axis plays a key role in the migration of immunosuppressive MDSCs into the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the pre-metastatic niche. MDSCs impede the efficacy of immunotherapy through a variety of mechanisms. Efforts to target MDSCs by blocking CXCR2 is an active area of research as a method for improving existing and novel immunotherapy strategies. As immunotherapies gain approval for a wider array of clinical indications, it will become even more important to understand the efficacy of CXCR2 inhibition in combating immunotherapy resistance at different stages of tumor progression.
PARP1 Inhibitor and Trabectedin Combination Does Not Increase Tumor Mutational Burden in Advanced Sarcomas—A Preclinical and Translational Study
Authors: Pignochino Ymera , Crisafulli Giovanni , Giordano Giorgia , Merlini Alessandra , Berrino Enrico , Centomo Maria Laura , Chiabotto Giulia , Brusco Silvia , Basiricò Marco , Maldi Elena , Pisacane Alberto , Leuci Valeria , Sangiolo Dario , D’Ambrosio Lorenzo , Aglietta Massimo , Kasper Bernd , Bardelli Alberto , Grignani Giovanni
Published: December 2021

Drug-induced tumor mutational burden (TMB) may contribute to unleashing the immune response in relatively “immune-cold” tumors, such as sarcomas. We previously showed that PARP1 inhibition perpetuates the DNA damage induced by the chemotherapeutic agent trabectedin in both preclinical models and sarcoma patients. In the present work, we explored acquired genetic changes in DNA repair genes, mutational signatures, and TMB in a translational platform composed of cell lines, xenografts, and tumor samples from patients treated with trabectedin and olaparib combination, compared to cells treated with temozolomide, an alkylating agent that induces hypermutation. Whole-exome and targeted panel sequencing data analyses revealed that three cycles of trabectedin and olaparib combination neither affected the mutational profiles, DNA repair gene status, or copy number alterations, nor increased TMB both in homologous recombinant-defective and proficient cells or in xenografts. Moreover, TMB was not increased in tumor specimens derived from trabectedin- and olaparib-treated patients (5–6 cycles) when compared to pre-treatment biopsies. Conversely, repeated treatments with temozolomide induced a massive TMB increase in the SJSA-1 osteosarcoma model. In conclusion, a trabectedin and olaparib combination did not show mutagenic effects and is unlikely to prime subsequent immune-therapeutic interventions based on TMB increase. On the other hand, these findings are reassuring in the increasing warning of treatment-induced hematologic malignancies correlated to PARP1 inhibitor use.
The Role of Patient- and Treatment-Related Factors and Early Functional Imaging in Late Radiation-Induced Xerostomia in Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients
Authors: Marzi Simona , Farneti Alessia , Marucci Laura , D’Urso Pasqualina , Vidiri Antonello , Gangemi Emma , Sanguineti Giuseppe
Published: December 2021

The advent of quantitative imaging in personalized radiotherapy (RT) has offered the opportunity for a better understanding of individual variations in intrinsic radiosensitivity. We aimed to assess the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) biomarkers, patient-related factors, and treatment-related factors in predicting xerostomia 12 months after RT (XER12) in patients affected by oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Patients with locally advanced OSCC underwent diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and dynamic-contrast enhanced MRI at baseline; DWI was repeated at the 10th fraction of RT. The Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) toxicity scale was used to evaluate salivary gland toxicity. Xerostomia-related questionnaires (XQs) were administered weekly during and after RT. RTOG toxicity ≥ grade 2 at XER12 was considered as endpoint to build prediction models. A Decision Tree classification learner was applied to build the prediction models following a five-fold cross-validation. Of the 89 patients enrolled, 63 were eligible for analysis. Thirty-six (57.1%) and 21 (33.3%) patients developed grade 1 and grade 2 XER12, respectively. Including only baseline variables, the model based on DCE-MRI and V65 (%) (volume of both glands receiving doses ≥ 65 Gy) had a fair accuracy (77%, 95% CI: 66.5–85.4%). The model based on V65 (%) and XQ-Intmid (integral of acute XQ scores from the start to the middle of RT) reached the best accuracy (81%, 95% CI: 71–88.7%). In conclusion, non-invasive biomarkers from DCE-MRI, in combination with dosimetric variables and self-assessed acute XQ scores during treatment may help predict grade 2 XER12 with a fair to good accuracy.
Application of Metal-Based Nanocatalysts for Addressing Environmental Issues and Energy Demand
Authors: Amin Mohamad Hassan
Published: December 2021

As part of the Glasgow Climate Pact, at COP27 in 2021, world leaders of 197 countries agreed to cut carbon dioxide emissions to prevent a “climate catastrophe” [...]
Validation of a Fixed Bed Reactor Model for Dimethyl Ether Synthesis Using Pilot-Scale Plant Data
Authors: Song Daesung , Cho Sung Yong , Vu Thang Toan , Duong Yen Hoang Phi , Kim Eunkyu
Published: December 2021

The one-dimensional (1D) mathematical model of fixed bed reactor was developed for dimethyl ether (DME) synthesis at pilot-scale (capacity: 25–28 Nm3/h of syngas). The reaction rate, heat, and mass transfer equations were correlated with the effectiveness factor. The simulation results, including the temperature profile, CO conversion, DME selectivity, and DME yield of the outlet, were validated with experimental data. The average error ratios were below 9.3%, 8.1%, 7.8%, and 3.5% for the temperature of the reactor, CO conversion, DME selectivity, and DME yield, respectively. The sensitivity analysis of flow rate, feed pressure, H2:CO ratio, and CO2 mole fraction was investigated to demonstrate the applicability of this model.
Phytochemical-Assisted Green Synthesis of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles for Application as Electrocatalysts in Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Selvanathan Vidhya , Shahinuzzaman M. , Selvanathan Shankary , Sarkar Dilip Kumar , Algethami Norah , Alkhammash Hend I. , Anuar Farah Hannan , Zainuddin Zalita , Aminuzzaman Mohammod , Abdullah Huda , Akhtaruzzaman Md.
Published: December 2021

Electrocatalytic water splitting is a promising solution to resolve the global energy crisis. Tuning the morphology and particle size is a crucial aspect in designing a highly efficient nanomaterials-based electrocatalyst for water splitting. Herein, green synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles using phytochemicals from three different sources was employed to synthesize nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiOx NPs). Nickel (II) acetate tetrahydrate was reacted in presence of aloe vera leaves extract, papaya peel extract and dragon fruit peel extract, respectively, and the physicochemical properties of the biosynthesized NPs were compared to sodium hydroxide (NaOH)-mediated NiOx. Based on the average particle size calculation from Scherrer’s equation, using X-ray diffractograms and field-emission scanning electron microscope analysis revealed that all three biosynthesized NiOx NPs have smaller particle size than that synthesized using the base. Aloe-vera-mediated NiOx NPs exhibited the best electrocatalytic performance with an overpotential of 413 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 95 mV dec−1. Electrochemical surface area (ECSA) measurement and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic analysis verified that the high surface area, efficient charge-transfer kinetics and higher conductivity of aloe-vera-mediated NiOx NPs contribute to its low overpotential values.
Fertility in Cystinosis
Authors: Reda Ahmed , Veys Koenraad , Besouw Martine
Published: December 2021

Cystinosis is a rare inheritable lysosomal storage disorder characterized by cystine accumulation throughout the body, chronic kidney disease necessitating renal replacement therapy mostly during adolescence, and multiple extra-renal complications. The majority of male cystinosis patients are infertile due to azoospermia, in contrast to female patients who are fertile. Over recent decades, the fertility status of male patients has evolved from a primary hypogonadism in the era before the systematic treatment with cysteamine to azoospermia in the majority of cysteamine-treated infantile cystinosis patients. In this review, we provide a state-of-the-art overview on the available clinical, histopathological, animal, and in vitro data. We summarize current insights on both cystinosis males and females, and their clinical implications including the potential effect of cysteamine on fertility. In addition, we identify the remaining challenges and areas for future research.
Mitophagy in Yeast: Decades of Research
Authors: Bhatia-Kissova Ingrid , Camougrand Nadine
Published: December 2021

Mitophagy, the selective degradation of mitochondria by autophagy, is one of the most important mechanisms of mitochondrial quality control, and its proper functioning is essential for cellular homeostasis. In this review, we describe the most important milestones achieved during almost 2 decades of research on yeasts, which shed light on the molecular mechanisms, regulation, and role of the Atg32 receptor in this process. We analyze the role of ROS in mitophagy and discuss the physiological roles of mitophagy in unicellular organisms, such as yeast; these roles are very different from those in mammals. Additionally, we discuss some of the different tools available for studying mitophagy.
Tracheotomy Outcomes in 71 COVID-19 Patients: A Multi-Centric Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almutairi Dakheelallah , Alqahtani Raneem , Alghamdi Arwa , Binammar Dina , Alzaidi Suzan , Ghafori Abdullah , Alsharif Hassan
Published: December 2021

Since its outbreak in late 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has seen a sharp rise in the demand for oxygen and ventilation facilities due to the associated extensive damage that it causes to the lungs. This study is considered the first and largest study in Saudi Arabia to evaluate the outcomes of tracheostomy in intubated COVID-19 patients. This is a retrospective, observational cohort study that was conducted at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) in Jeddah, Western Region, Saudi Arabia and King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The findings of the study revealed that seventy-one patients with COVID-19 underwent tracheotomy between 1 March 2020 and 31 October 2020. The average period between intubation and tracheostomy was 9.97 days. Hypertension, diabetes, lung disease and obesity (BMI > 30) were significant risk factors of mortality. The overall 30-day mortality rate was 38.4%.
Galvanic Corrosion Behaviour of Different Types of Coatings Used in Safety Systems Manufacturing
Authors: Burduhos-Nergis Diana-Petronela , Burduhos-Nergis Dumitru-Doru , Bejinariu Costica
Published: December 2021

Worker safety is one of the main aspects to be taken into account in any activity carried out at work. When we talk about the safety of the worker at activities carried out at height, the condition and characteristics of the personal protective equipment against falling from a height are one of the main causes of work accidents resulting in serious injuries or death. Carabiners are the main components of the safety system; their role is to connect the other components of the system or to make the connection between the system and the anchor point. Therefore, to be used safely, the carabiners’ material must have high corrosion resistance in different environments. This paper is part of a complex study that aims to improve the corrosion properties of carbon steel used in the manufacture of carabiners. Previous studies have shown that the corrosion resistance of carbon steel in various corrosive environments has been improved by the deposition of different types of phosphate layers, as well as other subsequently deposited layers. The aim of this paper is to study the galvanic corrosion evaluation between different galvanic couples (duralumin-coated samples, aluminium bronze-coated samples, and carbon steel-coated samples) tested in three different corrosive media. Moreover, the study approaches for the first time the galvanic corrosion of systems that can be formed between the materials used in the manufacture of carabiners. Accordingly, it was observed that, overall, the samples coated with a Zn phosphate layer exhibited the best performance in all the corrosive environments (saltwater and fire extinguishing solution).
Semipolar {202¯1} GaN Edge-Emitting Laser Diode on Epitaxial Lateral Overgrown Wing
Authors: Gandrothula Srinivas , Zhang Haojun , Shapturenka Pavel , Anderson Ryan , Wong Matthew S. , Li Hongjian , Kamikawa Takeshi , Nakamura Shuji , DenBaars Steven P.
Published: December 2021

Edge-emitting laser diodes (LDs) were fabricated on a reduced dislocation density epitaxial lateral overgrown (ELO) wing of a semipolar {202¯1} GaN substrate, termed an ELO wing LD. Two types of facet feasibility studies were conducted: (1) “handmade” facets, wherein lifted-off ELO wing LDs were cleaved manually, and (2) facets formed on wafers through reactive ion etching (RIE). Pulsed operation electrical and optical measurements confirmed the laser action in the RIE facet LDs with a threshold current of ~19 kAcm−2 and maximum light output power of 20 mW from a single uncoated facet. Handmade facet devices showed spontaneous, LED-like emission, confirming device layers remain intact after mechanical liftoff.
Pivoting the Provision of Smoking Cessation Education in a Virtual Clinical World: The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre Experience
Authors: Quartey Naa Kwarley , Papadakos Janet , Umakanthan Ben , Giuliani Meredith Elana
Published: December 2021

Continued smoking after a cancer diagnosis may be attributed to misbeliefs by both patients and healthcare providers on the value and benefit of quitting smoking on treatment outcomes. The perceived myths and misconceptions about the relationship between smoking and cancer may be readily dispelled with the provision of practical and pertinent education. However, busy clinics as well as the rapid move to virtual care due to the COVID-19 pandemic present several challenges with the provision of smoking cessation education. Here, we describe how the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre implemented innovative solutions to improve the delivery of education during the COVID-19 pandemic to better support patients and healthcare providers.
Integrative Taxonomy of Two Peruvian Strains of Brachionus plicatilis Complex with Potential in Aquaculture
Authors: Sánchez-Dávila Pedro Pablo Alonso , Sotil Giovanna , Adabache-Ortiz Araceli , Cueva Deivis , Silva-Briano Marcelo
Published: December 2021

Two Peruvian strains of the genus Brachionus were isolated from impacted coastal wetlands. With an integrative taxonomic view, we described their taxonomic status, morphological characters, productive parameters, and phylogenetic position. In the case of both strains, the relationship between biometrics and productive parameters obtained with Principal Components Analysis indicated that the lorica length was associated with longevity, progeny, egg production, and reproductive age, while the lorica width and aperture were associated with the maximum number of eggs carried. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analysis carried out with mtDNA COI gene and rDNA ITS1 region showed that both strains were clustered in two clades with distinct phylogenetic positioning from what is currently known for Brachionus plicatilis s.l. One of the strains, Z010-VL, is proposed to be a subspecies of L4 (B. paranguensis), and the other strain, Z018-SD, is proposed as a sub species of SM2 (B. koreanus). In addition, 33 and 31 aquaculture production lineages are proposed, delimited by COI and concatenated COI+ITS1 sequences, respectively. Finally, this study provides new tools that enhance the traceability of the origin of each sub-species throughout the world.
Polish Multi-Institutional Study of Children with Ependymoma—Clinical Practice Outcomes in the Light of Prospective Trials
Authors: Napieralska Aleksandra , Mizia-Malarz Agnieszka , Stolpa Weronika , Pawłowska Ewa , Krawczyk Małgorzata A. , Konat-Bąska Katarzyna , Kaczorowska Aneta , Brąszewski Arkadiusz , Harat Maciej
Published: December 2021

We performed a multi-institutional analysis of 74 children with ependymoma to evaluate to what extent the clinical outcome of prospective trials could be reproduced in routine practice. The evaluation of factors that correlated with outcome was performed with a log rank test and a Cox proportional-hazard model. Survival was estimated with the Kaplan–Meier method. The majority of patients had brain tumours (89%). All had surgery as primary treatment, with adjuvant radiotherapy (RTH) and chemotherapy (CTH) applied in 78% and 57%, respectively. Median follow-up was 80 months and 18 patients died. Five- and 10-year overall survival (OS) was 83% and 73%. Progression was observed in 32 patients, with local recurrence in 28 cases. The presence of metastases was a negative prognostic factor for OS. Five- and 10-year progression-free survival (PFS) was 55% and 40%, respectively. The best outcome in patients with non-disseminated brain tumours was observed when surgery was followed by RTH (+/−CTH afterwards; p = 0.0001). Children under 3 years old who received RTH in primary therapy had better PFS (p = 0.010). The best outcome of children with ependymoma is observed in patients who received radical surgery followed by RTH, and irradiation should not be omitted in younger patients. The role of CTH remains debatable.
Efficacy of US, MRI, and F-18 FDG-PET/CT for Detecting Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Turan Umit , Aygun Murat , Duman Berna Bozkurt , Kelle Aygül Polat , Cavus Yeliz , Tas Zeynel Abidin , Dirim Ahmet Baris , Irkorucu Oktay
Published: December 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) ultrasound (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and F-18fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (F-18 FDG-PET/CT) for detecting post-NAC axillary lymph node(ALN) metastasis in patients who had ALN metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Methods: This study included all breast cancer patients who received NAC for ALN metastasis; underwent axillary assessment with US, MRI, or F18FDG-PET/CT; and then were operated on in the General Surgery Clinic, Adana City Research and Training Hospital, Turkey. Patients’ data were recorded, including demographic data, clinicopathological parameters, NAC regimens, and operation types. The axillary response to chemotherapy on post-NAC US, MRI, and F-18 FDG-PET/CT was compared with the postoperative histopathological result of the ALN. Results: The study included a total of 171 female patients. The mean age of the patients was 53.28 ± 10.62 years. The post-NAC assessment revealed that the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of US for detecting ALN metastasis were 59.42%, 82.35%, 82.00%, and 60.00%, respectively, while the same measures regarding MRI for detecting ALN metastasis were 36.67%, 77.78%, 73.33%, and 42.42%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of F-18FDG-PET/CT were 47.50%, 76.67%, 73.08%, and 52.27%, respectively. The evaluation of dual combinations of these three imaging techniques showed that the specificity and PPV of the combined use of US and F-18FDG-PET/CT was 100%. Conclusions: The results showed that US has the highest sensitivity and specificity for detecting ALN metastasis after NAC. Furthermore, ALND may be preferred for these patients instead of SLNB if both examinations simultaneously indicate lymph node metastasis in the post-NAC assessment with US and F-18 FDG-PET/CT. SLNB may be preferred if these two examinations simultaneously show a complete response.
Differential Diagnosis of Abdominal Tuberculosis in the Adult—Literature Review
Authors: Ionescu Sinziana , Nicolescu Alin Codrut , Madge Octavia Luciana , Marincas Marian , Radu Madalina , Simion Laurentiu
Published: December 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) is a public health issue that affects mostly, but not exclusively, developing countries. Abdominal TB is difficult to detect at first, with the incidence ranging from 10% to 30% of individuals with lung TB. Symptoms are non-specific, examinations can be misleading, and biomarkers commonly linked with other diseases can also make appropriate diagnosis difficult. As a background for this literature review, the method used was to look into the main characteristics and features of abdominal tuberculosis that could help with differentiation on the PubMed, Science Direct, and Academic Oxford Journals databases. The results were grouped into three categories: A. general features (the five forms of abdominal tuberculosis: wet and dry peritonitis, lymphadenopathy, lesions at the level of the cavitary organs, lesions at the level of the solid organs), B. different intra-abdominal organs and patterns of involvement (oesophageal, gastro-duodenal, jejunal, ileal, colorectal, hepatosplenic, and pancreatic TB with calcified lymphadenopathy, also with description of extraperitoneal forms), and C. special challenges of the differential diagnosis in abdominal TB (such as diagnostic overlap, the disease in transplant candidates and transplant recipients, and zoonotic TB). The study concluded that, particularly in endemic countries, any disease manifesting with peritonitis, lymphadenopathy, or lesions at the level of the intestines or solid organs should have workups and protocols applied that can confirm/dismiss the suspicion of abdominal tuberculosis.
Knowledge, Perceived Risk, and Preventive Behaviors amidst Covid-19 Pandemic among Dental Students in Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Azlini , Ismail Nur Hanisah , Abu Kassim Nur Yasrin Maisarah , Lestari Widya , Ismail Ahmad Faisal , Sukotjo Cortino
Published: December 2021

Purpose: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has affected dental education in Malaysia. However, studies on dental students’ knowledge, perception, and behaviors with regards to COVID-19 are very limited. Thus, this study aims to determine the knowledge status, perceived risk, and preventive behaviors of dental students in Malaysia regarding COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among students from 13 dental schools across Malaysia using online questionnaires. Results: From 355 respondents, 93.5% obtained a high score of knowledge of COVID-19. Female respondents scored higher than males in perceived risks and preventive behaviors. Chinese respondents scored highest in knowledge, while Malay respondents had the highest perceived risk score. The mean preventive behavior score did not vary across ethnicity. On-campus students scored higher in knowledge and perceived risk whereas off-campus students practiced more preventive behaviors. Clinical students’ knowledge score was higher than preclinical students. Final year students scored higher in knowledge and perceived risk compared to their juniors. Conclusion: The majority of dental students have good knowledge and a high perceived risk of COVID-19, and they practiced most of the preventive behaviors. However, the latest information on this disease should be incorporated into dental schools’ curriculums and updated periodically.
Pediatricians’ Knowledge of Emergency Management of Dental Injuries and Use of Mouthguards: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Tadin Antonija , Delic Danijela , Delic Jukic Ivana Kristina , Gorseta Kristina , Gavic Lidia
Published: December 2021

Aim: Dental injuries are one of the most frequent oral health problems in children and adolescents. This study aimed to evaluate Croatian pediatricians’ knowledge and practice regarding dental injuries management and the use of mouthguards as means of protection against traumatic injuries. Materials and methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey conducted among 186 pediatricians examined their demographic characteristics, knowledge and experience with dental injuries. Student t-test or one-way ANOVA, with Tukey’s post-hoc were used to analyze obtained data (p ≤ 0.05). Results: The overall mean score of knowledge on the management of dental injuries was 3.6 ± 1.53 points. Male pediatricians (p = 0.016), those who witnessed dental injuries (p = 0.003), and those who had more than ten years of pediatric practice (p = 0.027) showed better knowledge. The results of multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated impact between pediatricians’ knowledge in the emergency treatment of traumatic dental injuries concerning the level of health care (practice settings) (β = −0.254, p = 0.002) and the number of patients treated by a pediatrician per day (β = −0.187, p = 0.030). Conclusion: Pediatricians have a low level of knowledge regarding the primary care of traumatic dental injuries. An additional course on dental injurie management should be recommended as part of the physician and pediatricians’ educational training.
Categorical Nature of Major Factor Selection via Information Theoretic Measurements
Authors: Chen Ting-Li , Chou Elizabeth P. , Fushing Hsieh
Published: December 2021

Without assuming any functional or distributional structure, we select collections of major factors embedded within response-versus-covariate (Re-Co) dynamics via selection criteria [C1: confirmable] and [C2: irrepaceable], which are based on information theoretic measurements. The two criteria are constructed based on the computing paradigm called Categorical Exploratory Data Analysis (CEDA) and linked to Wiener–Granger causality. All the information theoretical measurements, including conditional mutual information and entropy, are evaluated through the contingency table platform, which primarily rests on the categorical nature within all involved features of any data types: quantitative or qualitative. Our selection task identifies one chief collection, together with several secondary collections of major factors of various orders underlying the targeted Re-Co dynamics. Each selected collection is checked with algorithmically computed reliability against the finite sample phenomenon, and so is each member’s major factor individually. The developments of our selection protocol are illustrated in detail through two experimental examples: a simple one and a complex one. We then apply this protocol on two data sets pertaining to two somewhat related but distinct pitching dynamics of two pitch types: slider and fastball. In particular, we refer to a specific Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher and we consider data of multiple seasons.
Quality, Effectiveness and Outcome of Blended Learning in Dental Education during the COVID Pandemic: Prospects of a Post-Pandemic Implementation
Authors: Al-Fodeh Rami S. , Alwahadni Ahed M. S. , Abu Alhaija Elham S. , Bani-Hani Thikrayat , Ali Kamran , Daher Saba O. , Daher Hasan O.
Published: December 2021

Blended learning is growing in popularity particularly following the emergence of COVID-19 pandemic. One of the fields that the pandemic has substantially affected is dental education. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of the online dental education. Students’ perceptions and experiences of blended learning were also investigated. Methods: A 28-question online survey was designed to gauge students’ perceptions of the effect of blended learning on their academic performance. Results: 314 participants in preclinical and clinical years completed the questionnaire (223 females and 91 males). The majority of students (89%) believed that clinical and practical courses cannot be given by the internet. In terms of students’ opinion in the assessment process, more females (65.8%) preferred traditional exams than males (50.5%) (p < 0.05). Most clinical students (83%) preferred a combination of online and traditional teaching compared to 72% of preclinical students (p < 0.05). Clinical year students were more willing to communicate electronically with their classmates and instructors. The majority of dental students (65%) reported that future dental courses should be blended. Conclusions: In the pandemic era, blended learning, should become the preferred method of education whereby theoretical knowledge is delivered through online tutorials and clinical training is resumed on-site, to ensure competency of dental graduates while maintaining safety of the dental team. Current facilities and course designs should be improved in order to improve students’ experiences with blended learning.
The Paradox of State-Funded Higher Education: Does the Winner Still Take It All?
Authors: Põder Kaire , Lauri Triin
Published: December 2021

Contrary to the overall tendency to increase student participation in the financing of higher education, Estonia abolished student tuition fees in 2013. We study the effects of this reform on the students’ access to and progress in higher education, concentrating mostly on the changes in probabilities of rural and remote students being admitted (extensive margin) and graduating within a nominal time (intensive margin). We distinguish between four different outcomes: admission in general, admission to vocational education, admission to high-rank curricula, and graduation within nominal time. We confirm the tendency that a high socioeconomic status increases the probability of being admitted to high-rank curricula and reduces the probability of choosing an applied curriculum, and the 2013 reform did not change that. While the reform weakly improved rural students’ tendency to graduate on time, it diminished the probability that they were admitted to high-rank curricula. So, paradoxically and contrary to the intention of the reform, higher state involvement in higher education financing has not improved the equity in university admission in Estonia in terms of either socioeconomic background or regional disparities. We claim that part of the explanation of that paradox lies in the conditionality of this reform and the combination of a scarce needs-based and a competitive merit-based student support system in Estonia. We see our broader contribution in emphasising the important role of support systems in the future analysis of the potential to improve students’ access.
Hardware Architectures for Real-Time Medical Imaging
Authors: Alcaín Eduardo , Fernández Pedro R. , Nieto Rubén , Montemayor Antonio S. , Vilas Jaime , Galiana-Bordera Adrian , Martinez-Girones Pedro Miguel , Prieto-de-la-Lastra Carmen , Rodriguez-Vila Borja , Bonet Marina , Rodriguez-Sanchez Cristina , Yahyaoui Imene , Malpica Norberto , Borromeo Susana , Machado Felipe , Torrado-Carvajal Angel
Published: December 2021

Medical imaging is considered one of the most important advances in the history of medicine and has become an essential part of the diagnosis and treatment of patients. Earlier prediction and treatment have been driving the acquisition of higher image resolutions as well as the fusion of different modalities, raising the need for sophisticated hardware and software systems for medical image registration, storage, analysis, and processing. In this scenario and given the new clinical pipelines and the huge clinical burden of hospitals, these systems are often required to provide both highly accurate and real-time processing of large amounts of imaging data. Additionally, lowering the prices of each part of imaging equipment, as well as its development and implementation, and increasing their lifespan is crucial to minimize the cost and lead to more accessible healthcare. This paper focuses on the evolution and the application of different hardware architectures (namely, CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, and ASIC) in medical imaging through various specific examples and discussing different options depending on the specific application. The main purpose is to provide a general introduction to hardware acceleration techniques for medical imaging researchers and developers who need to accelerate their implementations.
A Detailed Testing Procedure of Numerical Differential Protection Relay for EHV Auto Transformer
Authors: Ehsan Umer , Jawad Muhammad , Javed Umar , Shabih Zaidi Khurram , Ur Rehman Ateeq , Rassõlkin Anton , Althobaiti Maha M. , Hamam Habib , Shafiq Muhammad
Published: December 2021

In power systems, the programmable numerical differential relays are widely used for the protection of generators, bus bars, transformers, shunt reactors, and transmission lines. Retrofitting of relays is the need of the hour because lack of proper testing techniques and misunderstanding of vital procedures may result in under performance of the overall protection system. Lack of relay’s proper testing provokes an unpredictability in its behavior, that may prompt tripping of a healthy power system. Therefore, the main contribution of the paper is to prepare a step-by-step comprehensive procedural guideline for practical implementation of relay testing procedures and a detailed insight analysis of relay’s settings for the protection of an Extra High Voltage (EHV) auto transformer. The experimental results are scrutinized to document a detailed theoretical and technical analysis. Moreover, the paper also covers shortcomings of existing literature by documenting specialized literature that covers all aspects of protection relays, i.e., from basics of electromechanical domain to the technicalities of the numerical differential relay covering its detailed testing from different reputed manufacturers. A secondary injection relay test set is used for detailed testing of differential relay under test, and the S1 Agile software is used for protection relay settings, configuration modification, and detailed analysis.
A Novel Hybrid Feature Selection Method for Day-Ahead Electricity Price Forecasting
Authors: Srivastava Ankit Kumar , Pandey Ajay Shekhar , Elavarasan Rajvikram Madurai , Subramaniam Umashankar , Mekhilef Saad , Mihet-Popa Lucian
Published: December 2021

The paper proposes a novel hybrid feature selection (FS) method for day-ahead electricity price forecasting. The work presents a novel hybrid FS algorithm for obtaining optimal feature set to gain optimal forecast accuracy. The performance of the proposed forecaster is compared with forecasters based on classification tree and regression tree. A hybrid FS method based on the elitist genetic algorithm (GA) and a tree-based method is applied for FS. Making use of selected features, aperformance test of the forecaster was carried out to establish the usefulness of the proposed approach. By way of analyzing and forecasts for day-ahead electricity prices in the Australian electricity markets, the proposed approach is evaluated and it has been established that, with the selected feature, the proposed forecaster consistently outperforms the forecaster with a larger feature set. The proposed method is simulated in MATLAB and WEKA software.
Optimal Battery Energy Storage System Scheduling within Renewable Energy Communities
Authors: Talluri Giacomo , Lozito Gabriele Maria , Grasso Francesco , Iturrino Garcia Carlos , Luchetta Antonio
Published: December 2021

In this work, a strategy for scheduling a battery energy storage system (BESS) in a renewable energy community (REC) is proposed. RECs have been defined at EU level by the 2018/2001 Directive; some Member States transposition into national legislation defined RECs as virtual microgrids since they still use the existing low voltage local feeder and share the same low-medium voltage transformer. This work analyzes a REC which assets include PV generators, BESS and non-controllable loads, operating under the Italian legislative framework. A methodology is defined to optimize REC economic revenues and minimize the operation costs during the year. The proposed BESS control strategy is composed by three different modules: (i) a machine learning-based forecast algorithm that provides a 1-day-ahead projection for microgrid loads and PV generation, using historical dataset and weather forecasts; (ii) a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) algorithm that optimizes the BESS scheduling for minimal REC operating costs, taking into account electricity price, variable feed-in tariffs for PV generators, BESS costs and maximization of the self-consumption; (iii) a decision tree algorithm that works at the intra-hour level, with 1 min timestep and with real load and PV generation measurements adjusting the BESS scheduling in real time. Validation of the proposed strategy is performed on data acquired from a real small-scale REC set up with an Italian energy provider. A 10% average revenue increase could be obtained for the prosumer alone when compared to the non-optimized BESS usage scenario; such revenue increase is obtained by reducing the BESS usage by around 30% when compared to the unmanaged baseline scenario.