bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Myeloma: Heterogeneous in Every Way
Authors: Schavgoulidze Anaïs , Cazaubiel Titouan , Perrot Aurore , Avet-Loiseau Hervé , Corre Jill
Published: March 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy characterized by the accumulation of tumor plasma cells (PCs) in the bone marrow (BM). Despite considerable advances in terms of treatment, patients’ prognosis is still very heterogeneous. Cytogenetics and minimal residual disease both have a major impact on prognosis. However, they do not explain all the heterogeneity seen in the outcomes. Their limitations are the result of the emergence of minor subclones missed at diagnosis, detected by sensible methods such as single-cell analysis, but also the non-exploration in the routine practice of the spatial heterogeneity between different clones according to the focal lesions. Moreover, biochemical parameters and cytogenetics do not reflect the whole complexity of MM. Gene expression is influenced by a tight collaboration between cytogenetic events and epigenetic regulation. The microenvironment also has an important impact on the development and the progression of the disease. Some of these determinants have been described as independent prognostic factors and could be used to more accurately predict patient prognosis and response to treatment.
Development of a Novel Weighted Ranking Method for Immunohistochemical Quantification of a Heterogeneously Expressed Protein in Gastro-Esophageal Cancers
Authors: Richards Cathy E. , Sheehan Katherine M. , Kay Elaine W. , Hedner Charlotta , Borg David , Fay Joanna , O’Grady Anthony , Hill Arnold D. K. , Jirström Karin , Hopkins Ann M.
Published: March 2021

High expression of Junctional Adhesion Molecule-A (JAM-A) has been linked with poor prognosis in several cancers, including breast cancers overexpressing the human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2). Furthermore, JAM-A expression has been linked with regulating that of HER2, and associated with the development of resistance to HER2-targeted therapies in breast cancer patients. The purpose of this study was to establish a potential relationship between JAM-A and HER2 in HER2-overexpressing gastro-esophageal (GE) cancers. Interrogation of gene expression datasets revealed that high JAM-A mRNA expression was associated with poorer survival in HER2-positive gastric cancer patients. However, high intra-tumoral heterogeneity of JAM-A protein expression was noted upon immunohistochemical scoring of a GE cancer tissue microarray (TMA), precluding a simple confirmation of any relationship between JAM-A and HER2 at protein level. However, in a test-set of 25 full-face GE cancer tissue sections, a novel weighted ranking system proved effective in capturing JAM-A intra-tumoral heterogeneity and confirming statistically significant correlations between JAM-A/HER2 expression. Given the growing importance of immunohistochemistry in stratifying cancer patients for the receipt of new targeted therapies, this may sound a cautionary note against over-relying on cancer TMAs in biomarker discovery studies of heterogeneously expressed proteins. It also highlights a timely need to develop validated mechanisms of capturing intra-tumoral heterogeneity to aid in future biomarker/therapeutic target development for the benefit of cancer patients.
Impact of Pancreatic Resection on Survival in Locally Advanced Resectable Gastric Cancer
Authors: Chang Shih-Chun , Tang Chi-Ming , Le Puo-Hsien , Kuo Chia-Jung , Chen Tsung-Hsing , Wang Shang-Yu , Chou Wen-Chi , Chen Tse-Ching , Yeh Ta-Sen , Hsu Jun-Te
Published: March 2021

Whether gastric adenocarcinoma (GC) patients with adjacent organ invasion (T4b) benefit from aggressive surgery involving pancreatic resection (PR) remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the impact of PR on survival in patients with locally advanced resectable GC. Between 1995 and 2017, patients with locally advanced GC undergoing radical-intent gastrectomy with and without PR were enrolled and stratified into four groups: group 1 (G1), pT4b without pancreatic resection (PR); group 2 (G2), pT4b with PR; group 3 (G3), positive duodenal margins without Whipple’s operation; and group 4 (G4), cT4b with Whipple’s operation. Demographics, clinicopathological features, and outcomes were compared between G1 and G2 and G3 and G4. G2 patients were more likely to have perineural invasion than G1 patients (80.6% vs. 50%, p < 0.001). G4 patients had higher lymph node yield (40.8 vs. 31.3, p = 0.002), lower nodal status (p = 0.029), lower lymph node ratios (0.20 vs. 0.48, p < 0.0001) and higher complication rates (45.2% vs. 26.3%, p = 0.047) than G3 patients. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were significantly longer in G1 than in G2 (28.1% vs. 9.3%, p = 0.003; 32% vs. 13%, p = 0.004, respectively). The 5-year survival rates did not differ between G4 and G3 (DFS: 14% vs. 14.4%, p = 0.384; OS: 12.6% vs. 16.4%, p = 0.321, respectively). In conclusion, patients with T4b lesion who underwent PR had poorer survival than those who underwent resection of other adjacent organs. Further Whipple’s operation did not improve survival in pT3–pT4 GC with positive duodenal margins.
Ovarian Cancer Treatments Strategy: Focus on PARP Inhibitors and Immune Check Point Inhibitors
Authors: Nero Camilla , Ciccarone Francesca , Pietragalla Antonella , Duranti Simona , Daniele Gennaro , Salutari Vanda , Carbone Maria Vittoria , Scambia Giovanni , Lorusso Domenica
Published: March 2021

Ovarian cancer treatment strategy is mainly based on three pillars: cytoreductive surgery, platinum-based chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. The latter in the last decade has provided a remarkable improvement in progression free patients and, hopefully, in overall survival. In particular, poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors exploit BRCA 1/2 mutations and DNA damage response deficiencies, which are believed to concern up to 50% of high grade epithelial ovarian cancer cases. While these agents have an established role in ovarian cancer treatment strategy in BRCA mutated and homologous recombination deficient patients, an appropriate predictive molecular test to select patients is lacking in clinical practice. At the same time, the impressive results of immunotherapy in other malignancies, have opened the space for the introduction of immune-stimulatory drugs in ovarian cancer. Despite immune checkpoint inhibitors as a monotherapy bringing only modest efficacy when assessed in pretreated ovarian cancer patients, the combination with chemotherapy, anti-angiogenetics, PARP inhibitors, and radiotherapy is believed to warrant further investigation. We reviewed literature evidence on PARP inhibitors and immunotherapy in ovarian cancer treatment.
Novel Histologic Categorization Based on Lauren Histotypes Conveys Prognostic Information for Gastroesophageal Junction Cancers—Analysis from a Large Single Center Cohort in Germany
Authors: Schirren Rebekka , Novotny Alexander , Slotta-Huspenina Julia , Friess Helmut , Reim Daniel
Published: March 2021

Adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction (AEG) ranks among the most common cancers in the Western world with increasing incidence. However, the prognostic influence and applicability of the Lauren classification was not examined in detail before. The purpose of this analysis was to analyze the oncologic outcomes of GE-junction cancer related to the Lauren histotype in a large single center cohort. Data from the prospectively documented database of the Klinikum Rechts der Isar (TUM School of Medicine) for patients undergoing curatively intended oncologic resection for GE-junction cancer between 1984 and 2018 were extracted. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify predictors for overall survival. Kaplan-Meier analyses were done to investigate the survival rates according to the Lauren histotype. After identification of two distinct histologic categories with prognostic implications, propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance for confounders and evaluate its oncologic outcomes retrospectively. In the time period indicated, 1710 patients were treated for GE-junction cancer. Exclusion criteria were: R2-resections (n = 134), metastatic disease (n = 296), 30-day mortality (n = 45), Siewert type I (n = 21), and missing/incomplete data (n = 61). Finally, 1153 patients were analyzed. In a multiple variable analysis, age, UICC-stage, all Lauren histotypes, R-stage, and postoperative complications were significant predictors of overall survival. Kaplan Meier analysis demonstrated significant survival differences between intestinal, diffuse, and mixed Lauren-histotypes (p = 0.001 and p = 0.029). Survival rates were comparable between non-classifiable and intestinal Lauren-types (p = 0.16) and between diffuse and mixed types (p = 0.56). When combining non-classifiable, well, and moderately differentiated Lauren-types and combining poorly differentiated intestinal, diffuse, and mixed types, two highly prognostic groups were identified (p < 0.0001). This was confirmed after PSM for possible confounders. The Lauren histotypes demonstrate highly prognostic value after oncologic resection of GE-junction cancer (Siewert type II and type III) in a single center Western patient cohort. A simplified histotype classification based on Lauren subtypes revealed a clear distinction of prognostic groups and should be considered for further evaluation.
Beyond the Guidelines: The Grey Zones of the Management of Gastric Cancer. Consensus Statements from the Gastric Cancer Italian Network (GAIN)
Authors: Fornaro Lorenzo , Spallanzani Andrea , de Vita Ferdinando , D’Ugo Domenico , Falcone Alfredo , Lorenzon Laura , Tirino Giuseppe , Cascinu Stefano ,   on behalf of GAIN (GAstric Cancer Italian Network)
Published: March 2021

Background: Management of gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma remains challenging, because of the heterogeneity in tumor biology within the upper gastrointestinal tract. Daily clinical practice is full of grey areas regarding the complexity of diagnostic, staging, and therapeutic procedures. The aim of this paper is to provide a guide for clinicians facing challenging situations in routine practice, taking a multidisciplinary consensus approach based on available literature. Methods: The GAIN (GAstric cancer Italian Network) group was established with the aims of reviewing literature evidence, discussing key issues in prevention, diagnosis, and management of gastric and GEJ adenocarcinoma, and offering a summary of statements. A Delphi consensus method was used to obtain opinions from the expert panel of specialists. Results: Forty-nine clinical questions were identified in six areas of interest: role of multidisciplinary team; risk factors; diagnosis; management of early gastric cancer and multimodal approach to localized gastric cancer; treatment of elderly patients with locally advanced resectable disease; and treatment of locally advanced and metastatic cancer. Conclusions: The statements presented may guide clinicians in practical management of this disease.
Combined In Situ Hybridization and Immunohistochemistry on Archival Tissues Reveals Stromal microRNA-204 as Prognostic Biomarker for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Rajthala Saroj , Dongre Harsh , Parajuli Himalaya , Min Anjie , Nginamau Elisabeth Sivy , Kvalheim Arild , Lybak Stein , Sapkota Dipak , Johannessen Anne Christine , Costea Daniela Elena
Published: March 2021

Micro-RNAs (miRs) are emerging as important players in carcinogenesis. Their stromal expression has been less investigated in part due to lack of methods to accurately differentiate between tumor compartments. This study aimed to establish a robust method for dual visualization of miR and protein (pan-cytokeratin) by combining chromogen-based in situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), and to apply it to investigate stromal expression of miR204 as a putative prognostic biomarker in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Four different combinations of methods were tested and ImageJ and Aperio ImageScope were used to quantify miR expression. All four dual ISH-IHC methods tested were comparable to single ISH in terms of positive pixel area percentage or integrated optical density of miRs staining. Based on technical simplicity, one of the methods was chosen for further investigation of miR204 on a cohort of human papilloma virus (HPV)-negative primary OSCC (n = 169). MiR204 stromal expression at tumor front predicted recurrence-free survival (p = 0.032) and overall survival (p = 0.036). Multivariate Cox regression further confirmed it as an independent prognostic biomarker in OSCC. This study provides a methodological platform for integrative biomarker studies based on simultaneous detection and quantification of miRs and/or protein and reveals stromal miR204 as a prognostic biomarker in OSCC.
Hexavalent Chromium Removal via Photoreduction by Sunlight on Titanium–Dioxide Nanotubes Formed by Anodization with a Fluorinated Glycerol–Water Electrolyte
Authors: Rosli Siti Azlina , Alias Nurhaswani , Bashirom Nurulhuda , Ismail Syahriza , Tan Wai Kian , Kawamura Go , Matsuda Atsunori , Lockman Zainovia
Published: March 2021

In this paper, titanium–dioxide (TiO2) nanotubes (TNTs) are formed by anodic oxidation with a fluorinated glycerol–water (85% and 15%, respectively) electrolyte to examine the effect of fluoride ion concentration, time, and applied voltage on TNT morphologies and dimensions. For fluoride ion concentration, the surface etching increases when the amount of ammonium fluoride added to the electrolyte solution increases, forming nanotube arrays with a clear pore structure. At a constant voltage of 20 V, TNTs with an average length of ~2 µm are obtained after anodization for 180 min. A prolonged anodization time only results in a marginal length increment. The TNT diameter is voltage dependent and increases from approximately 30 nm at 10 V to 310 nm at 60 V. At 80 V, the structure is destroyed. TNTs formed at 20 V for 180 min are annealed to induce the TiO2 anatase phase in either air or nitrogen. When ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid is added as a hole scavenger, 100% hexavalent chromium removal is obtained after 120 min of sunlight exposure for nitrogen-annealed TNTs.
Highly Species-Specific Foliar Metabolomes of Diverse Woody Species and Relationships with the Leaf Economics Spectrum
Authors: Schweiger Rabea , Castells Eva , Da Sois Luca , Martínez-Vilalta Jordi , Müller Caroline
Published: March 2021

Plants show an extraordinary diversity in chemical composition and are characterized by different functional traits. However, relationships between the foliar primary and specialized metabolism in terms of metabolite numbers and composition as well as links with the leaf economics spectrum have rarely been explored. We investigated these relationships in leaves of 20 woody species from the Mediterranean region grown as saplings in a common garden, using a comparative ecometabolomics approach that included (semi-)polar primary and specialized metabolites. Our analyses revealed significant positive correlations between both the numbers and relative composition of primary and specialized metabolites. The leaf metabolomes were highly species-specific but in addition showed some phylogenetic imprints. Moreover, metabolomes of deciduous species were distinct from those of evergreens. Significant relationships were found between the primary metabolome and nitrogen content and carbon/nitrogen ratio, important traits of the leaf economics spectrum, ranging from acquisitive (mostly deciduous) to conservative (evergreen) leaves. A comprehensive understanding of various leaf traits and their coordination in different plant species may facilitate our understanding of plant functioning in ecosystems. Chemodiversity is thereby an important component of biodiversity.
The Tissue Renin-Angiotensin System and Its Role in the Pathogenesis of Major Human Diseases: Quo Vadis?
Authors: Saravi Babak , Li Zhen , Lang Corinna N. , Schmid Bonaventura , Lang Frauke K. , Grad Sibylle , Alini Mauro , Richards Robert Geoffrey , Schmal Hagen , Südkamp Norbert , Lang Gernot M.
Published: March 2021

Evidence has arisen in recent years suggesting that a tissue renin-angiotensin system (tRAS) is involved in the progression of various human diseases. This system contains two regulatory pathways: a pathological pro-inflammatory pathway containing the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE)/Angiotensin II (AngII)/Angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AGTR1) axis and a protective anti-inflammatory pathway involving the Angiotensin II receptor type 2 (AGTR2)/ACE2/Ang1–7/MasReceptor axis. Numerous studies reported the positive effects of pathologic tRAS pathway inhibition and protective tRAS pathway stimulation on the treatment of cardiovascular, inflammatory, and autoimmune disease and the progression of neuropathic pain. Cell senescence and aging are known to be related to RAS pathways. Further, this system directly interacts with SARS-CoV 2 and seems to be an important target of interest in the COVID-19 pandemic. This review focuses on the involvement of tRAS in the progression of the mentioned diseases from an interdisciplinary clinical perspective and highlights therapeutic strategies that might be of major clinical importance in the future.
Policy Rogue or Policy Entrepreneur? The Forms and Impacts of “Joined-Up Governance” for Child Health
Authors: Cressman Celine , Miller Fiona A. , Guttmann Astrid , Cairney John , Hayeems Robin Z.
Published: March 2021

Joined-up governance (JUG) approaches have gained attention as mechanisms for tackling wicked policy problems, particularly in intersectoral areas such as child health, where multiple ministries that deliver health and social services must collaborate if they are to be effective. Growing attention to the need to invest in early childhood to improve health and developmental trajectories, including through developmental screening, illustrate the challenges of JUG for child health. Using a comparative case study design comprised of the qualitative analysis of documents and key informant interviews, this work sought to explain how and why visible differences in policy choices have been made across two Canadian jurisdictions (Ontario and Manitoba). Specifically, we sought to understand two dimensions of governance (structure and process) alongside an illustrative example—the case of developmental screening, including how insiders viewed the impacts of governance arrangements in this instance. The two jurisdictions shared a commitment to evidence-based policy making and a similar vision of JUG for child health. Despite this, we found divergence in both governance arrangements and outcomes for developmental screening. In Manitoba, collaboration was prioritized, interests were aligned in a structured decision-making process, evidence and evaluation capacity were inherent to agenda setting, and implementation was considered up front. In Ontario, interests were not aligned and instead decision making operated in an opaque and siloed manner, with little consideration of implementation issues. In these contexts, Ontario pursued developmental screening, whereas Manitoba did not. While both jurisdictions aimed at JUG, only Manitoba developed a coordinated JUG system, whereas Ontario operated as a non-system. As a result, Manitoba’s governance system had the capacity to stop ‘rogue’ action, prioritizing investments in accordance with authorized evidence. In contrast, in the absence of a formal system in Ontario, policy ‘entrepreneurs’ were able to seize a window of opportunity to invest in child health.
Three-Dimensional Radiative Bioconvective Flow of a Sisko Nanofluid with Motile Microorganisms
Authors: Ge-JiLe Hu , Waqas Hassan , Khan Sami Ullah , Khan Muhammad Ijaz , Farooq Shahid , Hussain Sajjad
Published: March 2021

The progressive and enhanced thermal mechanisms of nanoparticles has motivated researchers to give attention to this topic in recent years. The synthesizing and versatile applications of such materials include cooling and heating controlling processes, solar systems, energy production, nanoelectronics, hybrid-powered motors, cancer treatments, and renewable energy systems. Moreover, the bioconvection of nanofluids allows for some motivating applications in this era of bioengineering and biotechnology, such as biofuels, biosensors, and enzymes. With these interesting motivations and applications, this study elucidated upon the three-dimensional bioconvection flow of a Sisko fluid (base fluid) in the presence of a nanofluid over a stretched surface. The additional thermal features of radiation were also incorporated to modify the analysis. The rheological features of shear thinning and shear thickening that are associated with the Sisko nanofluid were comprehensively studied. The problem was formulated using highly nonlinear and coupled differential equations, which were numerically simulated via a shooting scheme. The salient physical applications of flow parameters were graphically underlined in view of shear-thinning and shear-thickening scenarios. The results showed that a decrease in velocity in the presence of buoyancy ratio forces was more conducive to the shear-thinning phenomenon. The increase in temperature profile due the thermal Biot number and surface heating source parameter seemed to be more inflated in the shear-thinning scenario. A lower motile microorganism profile was noted for the bioconvection Lewis number.
Eurocode Design of Recycled Aggregate Concrete for Chloride Environments: Stochastic Modeling of Chloride Migration and Reliability-Based Calibration of Cover
Authors: Albuquerque António , Pacheco João , Brito Jorge
Published: March 2021

Recycled aggregate concrete is a solution used to minimize the environmental impact of the concrete industry. Notwithstanding research worldwide validating structural applications of recycled aggregate concrete, specific design guidelines are lacking and are needed to address reservations of construction agents. Design guidelines should be based on reliability concepts, including the stochastic modeling of material properties and the calibration of design clauses through reliability methods. This paper concerns the concrete cover design of recycled aggregate concrete elements exposed to chloride ingress. Only coarse recycled aggregates produced from concrete waste are studied. The paper describes the chloride ingress model of fib Bulletin 34, presents experiments on the chloride ion migration of several analogue natural and recycled aggregate concrete mixes, tackles the stochastic modeling of the chloride migration coefficient, and calibrates concrete cover design for recycled aggregate concrete using reliability methods. The concrete cover design followed the deemed-to-satisfy provisions of Eurocode 2 and EN 206. The case studies used in the reliability analyses covered several design situations. A 5 mm increase of concrete cover is recommended as a simple option that ensures that the probability of depassivation due to chloride ingress on recycled aggregate concrete elements is equivalent to that for analogue natural aggregate concrete elements.
Therapeutic Strategies for Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Matoba Keiichiro
Published: March 2021

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a global epidemic leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and susceptibility to cardiovascular disease, with few therapeutic interventions. A hallmark of DKD is the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and hemodynamic changes in glomerulus. Although intensive therapy with agents that targets those abnormalities lowers the risk of DKD progression, it does not completely abolish the risk of ESRD and cardiovascular events. Recent studies have illustrated the importance of renal inflammation, oxidative stress, and activated Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) signaling as essential pathogenesis for the development of DKD. In this commentary, these topics will be discussed.
Translating Molecular Profiling of Soft Tissue Sarcomas into Daily Clinical Practice
Authors: Jacobs Celine , Lapeire Lore
Published: March 2021

Soft tissue sarcomas are a group of rare mesenchymal tumors with more than 70 subtypes described. Treatment of these subtypes in an advanced setting is mainly according to a one-size-fits-all strategy indicating a high unmet need of new and more targeted therapeutic options in order to optimize survival. The introduction of advanced molecular techniques in cancer has led to better diagnostics and identification of new therapeutic targets, leading to more personalized treatment and improved prognosis for several cancer types. In sarcoma, a likewise evolution is seen, albeit at a slower pace. This manuscript describes how in the past years advanced molecular profiling in soft tissue sarcomas was able to identify specific and often pathognomonic aberrations, deferring standard sarcoma treatment in favor of more targeted treatment from an oncologist’s point of view.
Efficacy and Haematologic Toxicity of Palliative Radioligand Therapy of Metastatic Castrate-Resistant Prostate Cancer with Lutetium-177-Labeled Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen in Heavily Pre-Treated Patients
Authors: Kesavan Murali , Meyrick Danielle , Gallyamov Marat , Turner J. Harvey , Yeo Sharon , Cardaci Giuseppe , Lenzo Nat P.
Published: March 2021

Background: Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains a significant contributor to the global cancer burden. lutetium-177-prostate-specific membrane antigen radioligand therapy (177Lu-PSMA RLT) is an effective salvage treatment. However, studies have highlighted haematologic toxicity as an adverse event of concern. We report our single-centre experience of compassionate access palliative 177Lu-DOTAGA-(I-y)fk(Sub-KuE) (177Lu-PSMA I&T) with respect to efficacy and haematologic safety. Methods: Patients with mCRPC and adequate bone marrow/liver function were included. All patients included underwent baseline and response assessment by Gallium-68-PSMA-11 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT). Prescribed activity of therapy was a median 6.24 GBq per patient per cycle (IQR1.29 GBq), administered in 8-week intervals, up to four cycles. Response was assessed by prostate specific antigen (PSA) and a week-12 PET/CT. Incidence of grade ≥ 3 haematologic toxicity, including association with risk factors (age ≥ 70 years, prior/concurrent therapy, presence of metastases, and number of cycles completed), was analysed. Results: One hundred patients completed one cycle of 177Lu PSMA I&T and underwent response assessment by both PSA and PET/CT. Two patients had an uninterpretable week-12 PET/CT. Median age was 70 (50–89), median number of prior therapies was three (1–6), and median follow up was 12-months. Fifty-four percent achieved a PSA response. Disease control rate (DCR) by PET/CT was 64% (29% SD, 34% PR, and 1% CR). Disease control by PET/CT was associated with an improved one-year overall survival (OS) compared to non-responders, median OS not-reached vs 10-months (p < 0.0001; 95% CI: 0.08–0.44). Regarding haematologic toxicity, 11% experienced a grade ≥ 3 cytopenia (self-limiting). No cases of myelodysplasia/acute leukaemia (MDS/AL) have been recorded. No association with risk factors was demonstrated. Conclusion: 177Lu-PSMA I&T is a safe and effective palliative outpatient treatment for mCRPC. 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT response is associated with an improved one-year OS and may be used to adapt therapy.
Lesion-Based Bone Metastasis Detection in Chest Bone Scintigraphy Images of Prostate Cancer Patients Using Pre-Train, Negative Mining, and Deep Learning
Authors: Cheng Da-Chuan , Hsieh Te-Chun , Yen Kuo-Yang , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to explore efficient ways to diagnose bone metastasis early using bone scintigraphy images through negative mining, pre-training, the convolutional neural network, and deep learning. We studied 205 prostate cancer patients and 371 breast cancer patients and used bone scintigraphy data from breast cancer patients to pre-train a YOLO v4 with a false-positive reduction strategy. With the pre-trained model, transferred learning was applied to prostate cancer patients to build a model to detect and identify metastasis locations using bone scintigraphy. Ten-fold cross validation was conducted. The mean sensitivity and precision rates for bone metastasis location detection and classification (lesion-based) in the chests of prostate patients were 0.72 ± 0.04 and 0.90 ± 0.04, respectively. The mean sensitivity and specificity rates for bone metastasis classification (patient-based) in the chests of prostate patients were 0.94 ± 0.09 and 0.92 ± 0.09, respectively. The developed system has the potential to provide pre-diagnostic reports to aid in physicians’ final decisions.
Ventricular Tachycardia Has Mainly Non-Ischaemic Substrates in Patients with Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases and a Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Markousis-Mavrogenis George , Poulos George , Dimitroulas Theodoros , Giannakopoulou Aikaterini , Mavragani Clio , Vartela Vasiliki , Manolopoulou Dionysia , Kolovou Genovefa , Voulgari Paraskevi , Sfikakis Petros P. , Kitas George D. , Mavrogeni Sophie I.
Published: March 2021

Non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) is a potentially lethal arrhythmia that is most commonly attributed to coronary artery disease. We hypothesised that among patients with NSVT and preserved ejection fraction, cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) would identify a different proportion of ischaemic/non-ischaemic arrhythmogenic substrates in those with and without autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs). In total, 80 consecutive patients (40 with ARDs, 40 with non-ARD-related cardiac pathology) with NSVT in the past 15 days and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction were examined using a 1.5-T system. Evaluated parameters included biventricular volumes/ejection fractions, T2 signal ratio, early/late gadolinium enhancement (EGE/LGE), T1 and T2 mapping and extracellular volume fraction (ECV). Mean age did not differ across groups, but patients with ARDs were more often women (32 (80%) vs. 15 (38%), p < 0.001). Biventricular systolic function, T2 signal ratio and EGE and LGE extent did not differ significantly between groups. Patients with ARDs had significantly higher median native T1 mapping (1078.5 (1049.0–1149.0) vs. 1041.5 (1014.0–1079.5), p = 0.003), higher ECV (31.0 (29.0–32.0) vs. 28.0 (26.5–30.0), p = 0.003) and higher T2 mapping (57.5 (54.0–61.0) vs. 52.0 (48.0–55.5), p = 0.001). In patients with ARDs, the distribution of cardiac fibrosis followed a predominantly non-ischaemic pattern, with ischaemic patterns being more common in those without ARDs (p < 0.001). After accounting for age and cardiovascular comorbidities, most findings remained unaffected, while only tissue characterisation indices remained significant after additionally correcting for sex. Patients with ARDs had a predominantly non-ischaemic myocardial scar pattern and showed evidence of diffuse inflammatory/ischaemic changes (elevated native T1-/T2-mapping and ECV values) independent of confounding factors.
Osteocalcin, Osteopontin and RUNX2 Expression in Patients’ Leucocytes with Arteriosclerosis
Authors: Ukkat Jörg , Hoang-Vu Cuong , Trojanowicz Bogusz , Rebelo Artur
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Calcification is a highly relevant process in terms of development of cardiovascular diseases, and its prevention may be the key to prevent disease progression in patients. In this study we investigated the expression of osteocalcin (OC), osteopontin (OPN) and RUNX2 in patients’ leukocytes and their possible role as diagnostic markers for cardiovascular diseases. Materials and Methods: Leucocytes from 38 patients were collected in the Department of Surgery of Martin-Luther-University Halle, including 8 patients without arteriosclerotic disease (PAD−) and 30 patients with symptomatic arteriosclerotic disease (PAD+). Patients’ leucocytes, in vitro calcified human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) were subjected to qPCR analyses with TaqMan probes, which are specific for OC, OPN and RUNX2. Additionally, the interaction between monocytes and calcified HUVEC and VSMC was investigated in adhesion assays. Results: The leucocytes obtained from patients with symptomatic arteriosclerotic disease (PAD+) demonstrated decreased mRNA level expression of Osteocalcin, while OPN and RUNX2 were significantly upregulated in comparison to asymptomatic patients. The induction of calcification in HUVEC and VSMC cells led to an increased expression of OC, OPN and RUNX2. Immunocytochemistry of calcified HUVEC and VSMC revealed stronger expression of OC, OPN and RUNX2 in calcified cells. Conclusion: To conclude, these data demonstrate that symptomatic arteriosclerotic disease has a correlation with OC, OPN and RUNX2. The biological rationale of OC, OPN and RUNX-2 remains not yet entirely understood for atherosclerotic disease, which means it needs further investigation.
Modeling Streamflow and Sediment Loads with a Photogrammetrically Derived UAS Digital Terrain Model: Empirical Evaluation from a Fluvial Aggregate Excavation Operation
Authors: Hupy Joseph P. , Wilson Cyril O.
Published: March 2021

Soil erosion monitoring is a pivotal exercise at macro through micro landscape levels, which directly informs environmental management at diverse spatial and temporal scales. The monitoring of soil erosion can be an arduous task when completed through ground-based surveys and there are uncertainties associated with the use of large-scale medium resolution image-based digital elevation models for estimating erosion rates. LiDAR derived elevation models have proven effective in modeling erosion, but such data proves costly to obtain, process, and analyze. The proliferation of images and other geospatial datasets generated by unmanned aerial systems (UAS) is increasingly able to reveal additional nuances that traditional geospatial datasets were not able to obtain due to the former’s higher spatial resolution. This study evaluated the efficacy of a UAS derived digital terrain model (DTM) to estimate surface flow and sediment loading in a fluvial aggregate excavation operation in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. A nested scale distributed hydrologic flow and sediment loading model was constructed for the UAS point cloud derived DTM. To evaluate the effectiveness of flow and sediment loading generated by the UAS point cloud derived DTM, a LiDAR derived DTM was used for comparison in consonance with several statistical measures of model efficiency. Results demonstrate that the UAS derived DTM can be used in modeling flow and sediment erosion estimation across space in the absence of a LiDAR-based derived DTM.
A New Algorithm for Digital Image Encryption Based on Chaos Theory
Authors: Pourasad Yaghoub , Ranjbarzadeh Ramin , Mardani Abbas
Published: March 2021

In recent decades, image encryption, as one of the significant information security fields, has attracted many researchers and scientists. However, several studies have been performed with different methods, and novel and useful algorithms have been suggested to improve secure image encryption schemes. Nowadays, chaotic methods have been found in diverse fields, such as the design of cryptosystems and image encryption. Chaotic methods-based digital image encryptions are a novel image encryption method. This technique uses random chaos sequences for encrypting images, and it is a highly-secured and fast method for image encryption. Limited accuracy is one of the disadvantages of this technique. This paper researches the chaos sequence and wavelet transform value to find gaps. Thus, a novel technique was proposed for digital image encryption and improved previous algorithms. The technique is run in MATLAB, and a comparison is made in terms of various performance metrics such as the Number of Pixels Change Rate (NPCR), Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR), Correlation coefficient, and Unified Average Changing Intensity (UACI). The simulation and theoretical analysis indicate the proposed scheme’s effectiveness and show that this technique is a suitable choice for actual image encryption.
Assessing the Europe 2020 Strategy Implementation Using Interval Entropy and Cluster Analysis for Interrelation between Two Groups of Headline Indicators
Authors: Kosareva Natalja , Krylovas Aleksandras
Published: March 2021

The research analyzes the progress of Member States in the implementation of Europe 2020 strategy targets and goals in 2016–2018. Multiple criteria decision-making approaches applied for this task. The set of headline indicators was divided into two logically explained groups. Interval entropy is proposed as an effective tool to make prioritization of headline indicators in separate groups. The sensitivity of the interval entropy is its advantage over classical entropy. Indicator weights were calculated by applying the WEBIRA (weight-balancing indicator ranks accordance) method. The WEBIRA method allows the best harmonization of ranking results according to different criteria groups—this is its advantage over other multiple-criteria methods. Final assessing and ranking of the 28 European Union countries (EU-28) was implemented through the α-cut approach. A k-means clustering procedure was applied to the EU-28 countries by summarizing the ranking results in 2016–2018. Investigation revealed the countries–leaders and countries–outsiders of the Europe 2020 strategy implementation process. It turned out that Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Austria during the three-year period were the countries that exhibited the greatest progress according to two headline indicator groups’ interrelation. Cluster analysis results are mainly consistent with the EU-28 countries’ categorizations set by other authors.
The Possible Coupling of LNG Regasification Process with the TSA Method of Oxygen Separation from Atmospheric Air
Authors: Banaszkiewicz Tomasz
Published: March 2021

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) must be vaporized before it is used in the combustion process. In most regasification terminals, energy that was previously expended to liquefy natural gas is dissipated in the environment. The paper proposes the use of the thermal effect of LNG regasification for the atmospheric air separation as a possible solution to the LNG exergy recovery problem. The presented idea is based on the coupling of the LNG regasification unit with an oxygen generator based on the Temperature Swing Adsorption (TSA) process. Theoretical analysis has revealed that it is thermodynamically justified to use the LNG enthalpy of vaporization for cooling of the TSA adsorption bed for increasing its adsorptive capacity. It has been shown that 1 kg of LNG carries enough exergy for separating up to approximately 100 g of oxygen using the TSA method. Although the paper suggests using the enthalpy of LNG vaporization for atmospheric air separation, similar processes for other gas mixture separations using the TSA method can be applied.
Banks’ Performance and Economic Growth in India: A Panel Cointegration Analysis
Authors: Alam Md. Shabbir , Rabbani Mustafa Raza , Tausif Mohammad Rumzi , Abey Joji
Published: March 2021

The banking sector plays a crucial role in the economic growth of a nation. The purpose of this study is to examine the long-term association between banks’ performance and the economic growth of a developing economy: India. The study used a panel of data of 20 public sector banks for the period 2009 to 2019. It applied the Pedroni and Kao test of co-integration, panel vector error correction model (VECM) dynamic, panel fully-modified ordinary least squires OLS (FMOLS), and dynamic OLS (DOLS) to estimate the relationship of interest margin return on assets, bank investment, and lending capacity of the bank with gross domestic product (GDP) of the country. The identification and incorporation of these bank-related variables are the innovations of this study. The results indicate that the bank-related variables are co-integrated with economic growth. Further analysis indicates a significant relationship between interest margin and return on assets with economic growth. In addition, lending capacity and investment activities are not significantly associated with economic growth, leading to the policy recommendation to improve upon these two factors in order to achieve higher growth rates.
A Machine Learning Workflow for Tumour Detection in Breasts Using 3D Microwave Imaging
Authors: Edwards Keeley , Khoshdel Vahab , Asefi Mohammad , LoVetri Joe , Gilmore Colin , Jeffrey Ian
Published: March 2021

A two-stage workflow for detecting and monitoring tumors in the human breast with an inverse scattering-based technique is presented. Stage 1 involves a phaseless bulk-parameter inference neural network that recovers the geometry and permittivity of the breast fibroglandular region. The bulk parameters are used for calibration and as prior information for Stage 2, a full phase contrast source inversion of the measurement data, to detect regions of high relative complex-valued permittivity in the breast based on an assumed known overall tissue geometry. We demonstrate the ability of the workflow to recover the geometry and bulk permittivity of the different sized fibroglandular regions, and to detect and localize tumors of various sizes and locations within the breast model. Preliminary results show promise for a synthetically trained Stage 1 network to be applied to experimental data and provide quality prior information in practical imaging situations.
Self-Consumption and Self-Sufficiency in Photovoltaic Systems: Effect of Grid Limitation and Storage Installation
Authors: Ciocia Alessandro , Amato Angela , Di Leo Paolo , Fichera Stefania , Malgaroli Gabriele , Spertino Filippo , Tzanova Slavka
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a methodology to maximize the self-sufficiency or cost-effectiveness of grid-connected prosumers by optimizing the sizes of photovoltaic (PV) systems and electrochemical batteries. In the optimal sizing procedure, a limitation on the maximum injection in the grid can affect the energy flows, the economic effectiveness of the investments, and thus the sizing results. After the explanation of the procedure, a case study is presented, and a parametric analysis of the effect of possible injection limits is shown. The procedure is applied to size plants for an Italian domestic prosumer, whose electric load profile was measured for a year. A software program developed using the proposed methodology is also briefly presented. It is used for both research and educational purposes, both in laboratory classes and in remote lessons.
Pro-Environmental Behaviors of Generation Z in the Context of the Concept of Homo Socio-Oeconomicus
Authors: Parzonko Anna Justyna , Balińska Agata , Sieczko Anna
Published: March 2021

The research reported here aims to investigate the pro-environmental behavior of respondents in the context of the concept of homo socio-oeconomicus. The main research question addressed in this paper considers the pro-environmental behavior of Generation Z representatives, due to the fact that this age group is believed to display different behavior patterns. In order to identify the differences in the pro-environmental behaviors of Generation Z, the results obtained from this group have been confronted with declarations of respondents from an older group (aged 25 to 65). It is worth noting that in the research on pro-environmental behavior of households in Poland conducted so far, Generation Z has not been taken into consideration as a separate demographic, so this study aims to make a contribution to the existing research gap. The data on the surveyed population were obtained through a standardized research questionnaire. The survey was carried out using the internet surveying technique—computer-assisted web interview (CAWI). This paper uses descriptive, tabular and graphic methods to analyze and present the collected materials. The basic measures of descriptive statistics were used in the analysis of the dataset, i.e., mean, median, mode, Pearson chi-square test and Mann–Whitney U test. The conducted research has shown that the representatives of Generation Z are less engaged in pro-environmental behavior than people from the older age group. Their pro-environmental actions mainly included turning off lights when leaving a room and choosing public transportation as the basic means of transport. For the whole surveyed sample, the most highly rated pro-environmental behaviors included those imposed by legal regulations and those whose implementation brings financial benefits in the form of lower maintenance costs. The main motivating and demotivating factors determining pro-environmental behavior were predominantly economic in nature.
Effect of Daily Forecasting Frequency on Rolling-Horizon-Based EMS Reducing Electrical Demand Uncertainty in Microgrids
Authors: La Tona Giuseppe , Di Piazza Maria Carmela , Luna Massimiliano
Published: March 2021

Accurate forecasting is a crucial task for energy management systems (EMSs) used in microgrids. Despite forecasting models destined to EMSs having been largely investigated, the analysis of criteria for the practical execution of this task, in the framework of an energy management algorithm, has not been properly investigated yet. On such a basis, this paper aims at exploring the effect of daily forecasting frequency on the performance of rolling-horizon EMSs devised to reduce demand uncertainty in microgrids by adhering to a reference planned profile. Specifically, the performance of a sample EMS, where the forecasting task is committed to a nonlinear autoregressive network with exogenous inputs (NARX) artificial neural network (ANN), has been studied under different daily forecasting frequencies, revealing a representative trend relating the forecasting execution frequency in the EMS and the reduction of uncertainty in the electrical demand. On the basis of such a trend, it is possible to establish how often is convenient to repeat the forecasting task for obtaining increasing performance of the EMS. The obtained results have been generalized by extending the analysis to different test scenarios, whose results have been found coherent with the identified trend.
Pulsed LED-Lighting as an Alternative Energy Savings Technique for Vertical Farms and Plant Factories
Authors: Olvera-Gonzalez Ernesto , Escalante-Garcia Nivia , Myers Deland , Ampim Peter , Obeng Eric , Alaniz-Lumbreras Daniel , Castaño Victor
Published: March 2021

Different strategies are reported in the literature for energy saving in Closed Plant Production Systems (CPPS). However, not reliable evidences about energy consumption with the use of pulsed LED light technique in lighting system available in Plant Factory and Vertical Farm. In this work, three key points to determine the effects of pulsed LED light versus continuous LED light are presented: (1) A mathematical model and its practical application for stabilizing the energy equivalence using LED light in continuous and pulsed mode in different light treatments. (2) The quantum efficiency of the photosystem II was used to determine positive and/or negative effects of the light operating mode (continuous or pulsed) on chili pepper plants (Capsicum annuum var. Serrano). (3) Evaluation of energy consumption with both operation modes using ten recipes from the literature to grow plants applied in Closed Plant Production Systems, different Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density at 50, 110, and 180 µmol m−2 s−1, Frequencies at 100, 500, and 1000 Hz, and Duty Cycles of 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90%. The results show no significant statistical differences between the operation modes (continuous and pulsed LED light). For each light recipe analyzed, a pulsed frequency and a duty cycle were obtained, achieving significant energy savings in every light intensity. The results can be useful guide for real-life applications in CPPS.