bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adverse Effects of Surgically Accelerated Orthodontic Techniques: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pouliezou Ioanna , Xenou Angeliki , Vavetsi Konstantina , Mitsea Anastasia , Sifakakis Iosif
Published: November 2022

Evidence on the potential adverse effects of surgically accelerated orthodontic techniques is scarce. The aim of this review was to evaluate the available scientific evidence regarding the adverse effects on periodontium, tooth vitality, and root resorption, associated with these surgical procedures in children, adolescents, and adults. The reporting of this review was based on the PRISMA2020 guidelines. Seven databases and three registers were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) published up to 22 June 2022. Hand searching of the reference lists of the included studies was also performed. The quality of the evidence was assessed with the Cochrane risk of bias and ROBINS-I tools. A total of 887 records were initially screened. Finally, 33 RCTs (713 patients), six CCTs (103 patients), and six ongoing protocols were eligible for this systematic review. The current review indicated that there are no significant adverse effects of surgically accelerated orthodontic techniques on periodontium, root length, or tooth vitality. High-quality clinical trials with less risk of bias should be conducted to allow reliable conclusions regarding the adverse effects of the surgical procedures associated with the acceleration of orthodontic treatment on children, adolescents, and adults.
Quality Improvement in a Pediatric Echocardiography Laboratory: A Collaborative Process
Authors: Sganga Danielle , Behera Sarina , Beattie Meaghan J. , Stauffer Katie Jo , Burlinson Aubrey , Lopez Leo , Tierney Elif Seda Selamet
Published: November 2022

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is an essential tool for diagnosis and management of congenital heart disease. Pediatric echocardiography presents unique challenges including complex anatomy, variable patient cooperation and provider expertise. Diagnostic errors inevitably occur. We designed a collaborative and stepwise quality improvement (QI) process to address diagnostic errors within our laboratory. We retrospectively reviewed medical records to identify diagnostic TTE errors in 100 consecutive cardiac surgery patients ≤ 5 years old (July 2020–January 2021). We identified 18 diagnostic errors. Most errors had minor impact (14/18), and 13 were preventable or possibly preventable. We presented these results to our sonographers and faculty and requested input on preventing and managing diagnostic errors. Our root cause analysis based on their responses yielded 7 areas for improvement (imaging, reporting, systems, time, environment, people, QI processes). Our faculty and sonographers chose QI processes and imaging as initial areas for intervention. We defined our SMART goal as a 10% reduction in diagnostic errors. We implemented interventions focused on QI processes. On initial follow up in May 2022, we identified 7 errors in 70 patients (44% reduction in error rate). Utilizing a stepwise and team-based approach, we successfully developed QI initiatives in our echocardiography laboratory. This approach can serve as a model for a collaborative QI process in other institutions.
Transcriptomic Signature of Horseshoe Crab Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda Hemocytes’ Response to Lipopolysaccharides
Authors: Sarmiento Maria E. , Chin Kai Ling , Lau Nyok-Sean , Ismail Noraznawati , Norazmi Mohd Nor , Acosta Armando , Yaacob Nik Soriani
Published: November 2022

Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda (C. rotundicauda) is one of the four species of horseshoe crabs (HSCs). The HSC hemocytes store defense molecules that are released upon encountering invading pathogens. The HSCs rely on this innate immunity to continue its existence as a living fossil for more than 480 million years. To gain insight into the innate mechanisms involved, transcriptomic analysis was performed on isolated C. rotundicauda hemocytes challenged with lipopolysaccharides (LPS), the main components of the outer cell membrane of gram-negative bacteria. RNA-sequencing with Illumina HiSeq platform resulted in 232,628,086 and 245,448,176 raw reads corresponding to 190,326,253 and 201,180,020 high-quality mappable reads from control and LPS-stimulated hemocytes, respectively. Following LPS-stimulation, 79 genes were significantly upregulated and 265 genes were downregulated. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were related to multiple immune functional categories and pathways such as those of the cytoskeleton, Toll and Imd, apoptosis, MAP kinase (MAPK), inositol phosphate metabolism, phagosome, leucocyte endothelial migration, and gram-negative bacterial infection, among others. This study provides important information about the mechanisms of response to LPS, which is relevant for the understanding the HSCs’ immune response.
Somatic Mutations Alter Interleukin Signaling Pathways in Grade II Invasive Breast Cancer Patients: An Egyptian Experience
Authors: Nassar Auhood , Zekri Abdel Rahman N. , Elberry Mostafa H. , Lymona Ahmed M. , Lotfy Mai M. , Abouelhoda Mohamed , Youssef Amira Salah El-Din
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to investigate the impact of somatic mutations on various interleukin signaling pathways associated with grade II invasive breast cancer (BC) in Egyptian patients to broaden our understanding of their role in promoting carcinogenesis. Fifty-five grade II invasive BC patients were included in this study. Data for somatic mutations in 45 BC patients were already available from a previous study. Data for somatic mutations of 10 new BC patients were included in the current study. Somatic mutations were identified using targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) to study their involvement in interleukin signaling pathways. For pathway analysis, we used ingenuity variant analysis (IVA) to identify the most significantly altered pathways. We identified somatic mutations in components of the interleukin-2, interleukin-6, and inter-leukin-7 signaling pathways, including mutations in JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, SOCS1, IL7R, MCL1, BCL2, MTOR, and IL6ST genes. Interestingly, six mutations which were likely to be novel deleterious were identified: two in the SCH1 gene, two in the IL2 gene, and one in each of the IL7R and JUN genes. According to IVA analysis, interleukin 2, interleukin 6, and interleukin 7 signaling pathways were the most altered in 34.5%, 29%, and 23.6% of our BC group, respectively. Our multigene panel sequencing analysis reveals that our BC patients have altered interleukin signaling pathways. So, these results highlight the prominent role of interleukins in the carcinogenesis process and suggest its potential role as promising candidates for personalized therapy in Egyptian patients.
The Neuroprotective Effects of Arecae Pericarpium against Glutamate-Induced HT22 Cell Cytotoxicity
Authors: Jeong Yun Hee , Oh You-Chang , Kim Tae In , Bae Jong-Sup , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: November 2022

Arecae Pericarpium has been found to exert anti-migraine, antidepressant, and antioxidative effects. However, the mechanisms involved are unclear. This study explored the possibility that Arecae Pericarpium ethanol extract (APE) exerts neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress-induced neuronal cell death. Since glutamate excitotoxicity has been implicated in the pathogenesis and development of several neurodegenerative disorders, we explored the mechanisms of action of APE on oxidative stress-induced by glutamate. Our results revealed that pretreatment with APE prevents glutamate-induced HT22 cell death. APE also reduced both the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species and the apoptosis of cells, while maintaining glutamate-induced mitochondrial membrane potentials. Western blotting showed that pretreatment with APE facilitates the upregulation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation; the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2); and the production of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase, glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunits, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1, and heme oxygenase (HO)-1. The administration of LY294002, a PI3K/Akt inhibitor, attenuated the neuroprotective effects of APE on oxidative stress-induced neuronal cell damage. This allowed us to infer that the protective effects of APE on oxidative damage to cells can be attributed to the PI3K/Akt-mediated Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
tRFs and tRNA Halves: Novel Cellular Defenders in Multiple Biological Processes
Authors: Hou Jiani , Li Qianqing , Wang Jun , Lu Wenfa
Published: November 2022

tRNA fragments derived from angiogenin or Dicer cleavage are referred to as tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and tRNA halves. tRFs and tRNA halves have been identified in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes and are precisely cleaved at specific sites on either precursor or mature tRNA transcripts rather than via random degradation. tRFs and tRNA halves are highly involved in regulating transcription and translation in a canonical or non-canonical manner in response to cellular stress. In this review, we summarize the biogenesis and types of tRFs and tRNA halves, clarify the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of tRNA fragments in both physiological and pathological processes with a particular focus on their cytoprotective roles in defending against oxidation and apoptosis, and highlight their potential application as biomarkers in determining cell fate.
Optimal Placement of Distributed Generation Based on Power Quality Improvement Using Self-Adaptive Lévy Flight Jaya Algorithm
Authors: Naga Lakshmi Gubbala Venkata , Jaya Laxmi Askani , Veeramsetty Venkataramana , Salkuti Surender Reddy
Published: November 2022

The optimal placement of distributed generation (DG) is a critical task for distribution companies in order to keep the distribution network running smoothly. The optimal placement of DG units is an optimization problem. In this paper, minimization of the voltage deviation from flat voltage is considered as an objective function. The self-adaptive Lévy flight-based Jaya algorithm is used as an optimization technique to determine the best location and size of distributed generation units. In the MATLAB environment, the proposed algorithm was implemented on IEEE 15 and PG and E 69 bus distribution systems. According to the simulation results, distribution networks can supply more quality power to customers by minimizing the voltage deviation from the flat voltage profile if the DG units are properly placed and sized.
Tackling Colorants Sustainability Combining Disruptive Science and Sustainable Leadership: A Review Article
Authors: Lorenzon Valentina , Faccio Greta
Published: November 2022

Many pigments and dyes are not only valuable molecules in manufacturing, but also environmental pollutants. Stemming from the observation of the slow pace of change taking place to counter the ‘fast fashion’ phenomenon and its environmental consequences, this critical review highlights the importance not only of biotechnological approaches but also of a sustainable leadership to achieve a future-proof fashion industry. Science has been producing sustainable alternatives to counter the issue of dyes, but this is not enough. A change in the business attitude and leadership approach of the organizations that operate in the industry is needed. Only through the successful combination of new technologies and forward-looking decision-making will it be possible to alter the status quo and deal with the multiple environmental challenges that businesses are and will be facing.
Streptomyces spp. Isolated from Rosa davurica Rhizome for Potential Cosmetic Application
Authors: Zheng Shengdao , Oh Sarang , Fang Minzhe , Bellere Arce Defeo , Jung Jeyong , Nguyen Trang Thi Minh , Jeong Jeehaeng , Yi Tae-Hoo
Published: November 2022

Streptomyces species are widely studied and used in different fields, including antibiotics and pesticides, and are spread in several places as soil-derived microorganisms. However, research on anti-aging, including antioxidants obtained from Streptomyces, has not been performed as much. Skin aging due to bacterial infection, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), is challenging to recover, so it is essential to prevent aging by preventing or inhibiting infection. Therefore, this study was conducted to isolate Streptomyces species from Rosa davurica rhizome soil and to determine the effect of the ethyl acetate extract of the isolated strain Streptomyces chattanoogensis THA-663 (THA-663S) on the inhibition of MRSA and UVB-irradiated human skin keratinocytes, to determine whether it could be a treatment for skin aging. The MRSA inhibition and antioxidant activities were evaluated using disc diffusion, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2’-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and a reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay. The expression of aging-related markers, including mitogen-activated protein kinases/activator protein 1 (MAPK)/AP-1) and transforming growth factor-β/suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (TGF-β/Smad) was assessed using Western blotting. The antibacterial effect on four MRSA strains, CCARM 0204, CCARM 0205, CCARM 3855, and CCARM 3089, showed that THA-663S could greatly inhibit MRSA growth. Moreover, the findings showed that THA-663S is efficient in scavenging free radicals and dose-dependently reducing ROS generation. Furthermore, THA-663S notably reduced UVB-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression by inhibiting the MAPK/AP-1 signaling pathways and blocking extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation in UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells. Additionally, THA-663S improved and enhanced transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling activation to promote procollagen type I synthesis, relieving UVB-induced skin cell damage. In conclusion, THA-663S has a high potential to protect skin cells from aging, and, simultaneously, it can prevent or treat aging caused by infection due to pathogen inhibition.
Application of Niosomes in Cosmetics: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mawazi Saeid Mezail , Ann Tong Jo , Widodo Riyanto Teguh
Published: November 2022

A rising volume of the literature acknowledges the significance of nanotechnology in the cosmetics industry, particularly with the invention and use of techniques based on niosomes to generate unique formulations with both medicinal and aesthetic benefits. The current study’s objectives are to undertake a comprehensive review of the previously published data on the use and applications of niosomes in cosmetics and to give a succinct summary of that data. Preferred Reporting standards for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used in the design of the current review. The core concept and keywords were derived from the research question using the SPIDER tool. The main steps of this review included: design of the research question, preliminary research, search strategy, searching the database, exclusion and inclusion criteria, approval by authors, title and abstract screening, reporting of the number of data selected, full text download and reading, manual research (Google Scholar, Scopus, and WoS), data extraction and quality assessment, double data checking, and manuscript writing, revision, and submission. After thorough data analysis, it was discovered that a cosmetic product’s aesthetic impact significantly improved when it was created utilising niosomes technology. The majority of cosmeceutical niosomes’ skin and hair products demonstrated an enhanced therapeutic and cosmeceutical effect. These discoveries may contribute to the treatment of skin conditions under the umbrella of cosmeceutical niosomes.
Making Improvisations, Reconfiguring Livelihoods: Surviving the COVID-19 Lockdown by Urban Residents in Uganda
Authors: Nanfuka Esther K. , Kyaddondo David
Published: November 2022

The declaration of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to the enforcement of national lockdowns in several countries. While lockdowns are generally effective in containing the spread of infectious diseases, they are associated with negative impacts on livelihoods. Although evidence suggests that urban informal sector populations in low-resource settings bore the brunt of the adverse economic effects of COVID-19 lockdowns, there is little on how they survived. The article provides insights into the survival mechanisms of urban informal sector populations during a COVID-19 lockdown. Data are from narrative interviews with 30 residents of Kampala City and surrounding areas. We found that the COVID-19 lockdown chiefly jeopardized the livelihoods of urban residents through job loss and reduced incomes. Affected individuals and households primarily survived by making improvisations such as adjusting expenditures and reconfiguring their livelihoods. The cardinal elements of the informal sector, such as limited regulation, served as both a facilitator and constraint to survival. Therefore, the informal sector is an important buffer against livelihood shocks in situations of crisis. However, its inherent limitations imply that promoting livelihood resilience among urban residents during lockdowns and similar shocks may necessitate harnessing both formal and informal safety nets.
Correlates of Cancer-Related Fatigue among Colorectal Cancer Patients Undergoing Postoperative Adjuvant Therapy Based on the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms
Authors: Wang Song , Jiang Ning , Song Yuanyuan , Ma Lihua , Niu Ying , Song Jing , Jiang Xiaolian
Published: November 2022

Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common and burdensome symptom in cancer patients that is influenced by multiple factors. Identifying factors associated with CRF may help in developing tailored interventions for fatigue management. This study aimed to examine the correlates of CRF among colorectal cancer patients undergoing postoperative adjuvant therapy based on the theory of unpleasant symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional study was implemented, and finally, a sample of 363 participants from one tertiary general hospital and one tertiary cancer hospital was purposively recruited. Data were collected using the general information questionnaire, cancer fatigue scale, the distress disclosure index, Herth hope index, and perceived social support scale. Univariate analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were performed to determine the correlates of CRF. Results: The mean score of CRF among colorectal cancer patients was 21.61 (SD = 6.16, 95% CI 20.98–22.25), and the fatigue degree rating was “moderate”. The multiple linear regression model revealed that 49.1% of the variance in CRF was explained by hope, sleep disorder, internal family support, self-disclosure, pain, and time since operation. Conclusions: Our study identified several significant, modifiable factors (self-disclosure, hope, internal family support, pain, and sleep disorder) associated with CRF. Understanding these correlates and developing targeted psychosocial interventions may be associated with the improvement of CRF in patients with colorectal cancer.
The “Sandwich” Schedule: A Well-Tolerated Adjuvant Treatment Both in Intermediate–High- and High-Risk Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Ferrero Annamaria , Fuso Luca , Cipullo Isabella , Danese Roberta , Rossi Annalisa , Gribaudo Sergio , Attianese Daniela , Pace Luca , Danese Saverio , Biglia Nicoletta
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: In intermediate–high- and high-risk endometrial cancer (EC), radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy (CT) play a basic role. However, there is controversy regarding the optimal timing of their combination. The “sandwich” schedule involves adjuvant CT followed by RT and subsequent CT. The aim of this study is to assess the tolerability and efficacy of the “sandwich” schedule. (2) Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in two gynecological oncology units in Torino, Italy, from 1 January 2003 until 31 December 2021. Intermediate–high- and high-risk patients with available clinical data were included. Compliance with treatment, CT and RT toxicities, disease-free survival (DFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. (3) Results: A total of 118 patients were selected: 27.1% FIGO I-II stages and 72.9% III-IV. Most of the patients (75.4%) received a carboplatin–paclitaxel combination, and as much as 94.9% of CT cycles were completed. Chemotherapy-related G3-4 toxicities were detected in 5.3% of the patients, almost half of which were hematological. Grade 2 gastrointestinal and genitourinary toxicities were reported in 8.4% and 4.2% of cases, respectively. With a median follow-up of 46 months, DFS was 77.6%, CSS was 70% and 5-year OS was 54%. (4) Conclusions: The “sandwich” schedule for CT and RT combination is an effective adjuvant treatment with low toxicity both in intermediate–high- and high-risk EC.
Inflammatory Ratios as Predictors for Tumor Invasiveness, Metastasis, Resectability and Early Postoperative Evolution in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Nechita Vlad I. , Al-Hajjar Nadim , Moiş Emil , Furcea Luminiţa , Nechita Mihaela A. , Graur Florin
Published: November 2022

Our study aimed to evaluate the baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in relation to invasion, metastasis, and resectability for patients with gastric cancer, respectively, as predictors of death during hospitalization or surgical complications. A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 657 gastric cancer subjects. Inflammatory biomarkers were computed. The associations with tumor stage, metastasis, optimal procedure, in-hospital mortality, and surgical complications were evaluated. Subjects who underwent curative-intent surgery presented lower median NLRs (2.9 vs. 3.79), PLRs (166.15 vs. 196.76), and SIIs (783.61 vs. 1122.25), and higher LMRs (3.34 vs. 2.9) than those who underwent palliative surgery. Significantly higher NLRs (3.3 vs. 2.64), PLRs (179.68 vs. 141.83), and SIIs (920.01 vs. 612.93) were observed for those with T3- and T4-stage cancer, in comparison with those with T1- and T2-stage cancer. Values were significantly higher in the case of metastasis for the NLR (3.96 vs. 2.93), PLR (205.22 vs. 167.17), and SII (1179 vs. 788.37) and significantly lower for the LMR (2.74 vs. 3.35). After the intervention, the NLR, PLR, and SII values were higher (p < 0.01) for patients with surgical complications, and the NLR and SII values were higher for those who died during hospitalization. Higher NLRs, PLRs, SIIs, and lower LMRs were associated with a more aggressive tumor; during early follow-up, these were related to post-operative complications and death during hospitalization.
Association of Surgical Margin Status with Oncologic Outcome in Patients Treated with Breast-Conserving Surgery
Authors: Chae Sumin , Min Sun Young
Published: November 2022

We aimed to compare the prognosis of patients with close resection margins after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) with that of patients with negative margins and identified predictors of residual disease. A total of 542 patients with breast cancer who underwent BCS between 2003 and 2019 were selected and divided into the close margin (114 patients) and negative margin (428 patients) groups. The median follow-up period was 72 (interquartile range, 42–113) months. Most patients received radiation therapy (RTx) and systemic therapy according to their stage and molecular subtype. The 10-year locoregional recurrence-free survival rates of the close and negative margin groups were 88.2% and 95.5%, respectively (p = 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that adjuvant RTx and margin status after definitive surgery were significantly associated with locoregional recurrence. Of the 57 patients who underwent re-excision, 34 (59.6%) had residual disease. Multivariable analysis revealed that a histological type of positive or close margins and multifocality were independent predictive factors for residual disease. Although the current guidelines suggest that no ink on tumor is an adequate margin after BCS, a close resection margin may be associated with locoregional failure. The treatment strategy for close resection margins after BCS should be based on individual clinicopathological features.
The Contribution of Desert-Dwelling Bats to Pest Control in Hyper-Arid Date Agriculture
Authors: Schäckermann Jessica , Morris Evie J. , Alberdi Antton , Razgour Orly , Korine Carmi
Published: November 2022

Over 40% of the Earth’s surface has been converted to agricultural use and agroecosystems have become important habitats for wildlife. In arid regions, intensive agriculture creates artificial oasis-like habitats due to their high irrigation inputs. Date production is one of the primary agricultural practices in the deserts of the Middle East and North Africa. Insectivorous bats are known to use agricultural areas, but the role of date plantations as their foraging habits and the importance of insectivorous bats as date bio-pest control agents are still unknown. We assessed the role of date plantations as foraging habitats for local desert bat species by acoustically recording bat activity in conventional and organic date plantations in the southern Arava Valley, Israel. In addition, we captured bats in the plantations and collected feces for DNA metabarcoding analysis to investigate the presence of pest species in their diets. We found that 12 out of the 16 known species of bats in this region frequently used both conventional and organic date plantations as foraging habitats. Species richness was highest in the organic plantation with complex ground vegetation cover. Foraging activity was not affected by plantation type or management. However, bat species richness and activity increased in all plantations during summer date harvesting. Molecular analysis confirmed that bats feed on a variety of important date pests, but the particular pests consumed and the extent of consumption varied among bat species. Our results highlight a win–win situation, whereby date plantations are an important foraging habitat for desert bats, while bats provide bio-pest control services that benefit the date plantations. Therefore, date farmers interested in bio-pest control should manage their plantations to support local desert bat populations.
Not Your Mother’s Melanoma: Causes and Effects of Early Melanoma Diagnosis
Authors: Sadrolashrafi Kaviyon , Cotter David Graham
Published: November 2022

The year 2022 will herald approximately 100,000 new cases of cutaneous melanoma (CM), and over 7000 deaths from CM. Over the past 40 years, CM incidence has increased nearly six-fold; however, annual mortality has remained relatively constant. These trends encapsulate the phenomenon of overdiagnosis. Increased recognition of indolent lesions that appear histologically malignant may be leading to a melanoma epidemic. Enhanced melanoma awareness, screening efforts, physician uncertainty, medical-legal pressures, and diagnostic scrutiny using tools like immunohistochemical staining, mole mapping, dermoscopy, confocal microscopy, and molecular diagnostics contribute to increased CM diagnosis. As a result, current melanoma staging and treatment guidelines are being challenged. Existing standards fail to accurately identify histologically benign lesions that are lethal or, conversely, histologically malignant lesions that are innocuous. Healthcare systems and, more importantly, patients suffer from this diagnostic ambiguity that leads to the over-treatment of innocuous melanomas and under-treatment of aggressive melanomas. As dermatology continues to experience a shift towards earlier diagnosis of melanoma, management strategies must adapt. Herein, we review factors that may contribute to the increased incidence of melanoma, emphasize deficiencies in current staging systems, and provide insights into the future of melanoma management via precision medicine.
Sialyltransferases and Neuraminidases: Potential Targets for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Nag Sagorika , Mandal Abhimanyu , Joshi Aryaman , Jain Neeraj , Srivastava Ravi Shanker , Singh Sanjay , Khattri Arun
Published: November 2022

Cancers are the leading cause of death, causing around 10 million deaths annually by 2020. The most common cancers are those affecting the breast, lungs, colon, and rectum. However, it has been noted that cancer metastasis is more lethal than just cancer incidence and accounts for more than 90% of cancer deaths. Thus, early detection and prevention of cancer metastasis have the capability to save millions of lives. Finding novel biomarkers and targets for screening, determination of prognosis, targeted therapies, etc., are ways of doing so. In this review, we propose various sialyltransferases and neuraminidases as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of the most common cancers, along with a few rare ones, on the basis of existing experimental and in silico data. This compilation of available cancer studies aiming at sialyltransferases and neuraminidases will serve as a guide for scientists and researchers working on possible targets for various cancers and will also provide data about the existing drugs which inhibit the action of these enzymes.
Effect of Photobiomodulation on Atrophic–Erosive Clinical Forms of Oral Lichen Planus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ruiz Roca Juan Antonio , López Jornet Pía , Gómez García Francisco José , Marcos Aroca Paula
Published: November 2022

Introduction. Oral lichen planus is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease of unknown origin, characterized by various clinical forms of which the atrophic–erosive causes patients the greatest symptomatology. For this reason, there are different treatments that improve the associated signs and symptoms. One of these therapies is photobiomodulation (PBM), which, although new, has a high level of acceptance in dentistry based on evidence. However, there are inconsistent results in its application against lichen planus. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation and its effectiveness as a therapeutic alternative for atrophic–erosive lesions. Material and methods. The databases PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library were searched to identify studies investigating the photobiomodulation treatment in atrophic–erosive lesions of oral lichen planus. A total of 294 articles were identified, published between 2017 and 2022, and then evaluated; 7 articles that met all the inclusion criteria were included in this study. Results. The type of laser light source used in PBM was the diode laser (four cases), the Nd–YAG laser at the same wavelength of 1064 nm (two cases) and the He–Ne laser (one case). The minimum and maximum wavelengths used were 630 nm and 1064 nm, respectively. Most studies used lesions treated with topical corticosteroids as a control group. The follow-up times of the studies were highly variable. Conclusions. Photobiomodulation is a treatment that competently combats oral lichen planus lesions by improving signs and symptoms, with no known adverse reactions so far, which makes it more beneficial compared to more conventional therapies, such as corticosteroids, for which side effects have been found.
Streptococcus mutans Proteases Degrade Dentinal Collagen
Authors: Huang Bo , Stewart Cameron A. , McCulloch Christopher A. , Santerre J. Paul , Cvitkovitch Dennis G. , Finer Yoav
Published: November 2022

Here, we explored the role of S. mutans’s whole cell and discrete fractions in the degradation of type I collagen and dentinal collagen. Type I collagen gels and human demineralized dentin slabs (DS) were incubated in media alone or with one of the following: overnight (O/N) or newly inoculated (NEW) cultures of S. mutans UA159; intracellular proteins, supernatant or bacterial membranes of O/N cultures. Media from all groups were analyzed for protease-mediated release of the collagen-specific imino acid hydroxyproline. Images of type I collagen and DS were analyzed, respectively. Type I collagen degradation was highest for the supernatant (p < 0.05) fractions, followed by intracellular components and O/N cultures. Collagen degradation for DS samples was highest for O/N samples, followed by supernatant, and intracellular components (p < 0.05). There was lower detectable degradation for both type I collagen and DS from NEW culture samples (p < 0.05), and there was no type I collagen or DS degradation detected for bacterial membrane samples. Structural changes to type I collagen gel and dentinal collagen were observed, respectively, following incubation with S. mutans cultures (O/N and NEW), intracellular components, and supernatant. This study demonstrates that intracellular and extracellular proteolytic activities from S. mutans enable this cariogenic bacterium to degrade type I and dentinal collagen in a growth-phase dependent manner, potentially contributing to the progression of dental caries.
Benchmarking Tracking Autopilots for Quadrotor Aerial Robotic System Using Heuristic Nonlinear Controllers
Authors: Abdelghany Muhammad Bakr , Moustafa Ahmed M. , Moness Mohammed
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates and benchmarks quadrotor navigation and hold autopilots’ global control performance using heuristic optimization algorithms. The compared methods offer advantages in terms of computational effectiveness and efficiency to tune the optimum controller gains for highly nonlinear systems. A nonlinear dynamical model of the quadrotor using the Newton–Euler equations is modeled and validated. Using a modified particle swarm optimization (MPSO) and genetic algorithm (GA) from the heuristic paradigm, an offline optimization problem is formulated and solved for three different controllers: a proportional–derivative (PD) controller, a nonlinear sliding-mode controller (SMC), and a nonlinear backstepping controller (BSC). It is evident through the simulation case studies that the utilization of heuristic optimization techniques for nonlinear controllers considerably enhances the quadrotor system response. The performance of the conventional PD controller, SMC, and BSC is compared with heuristic approaches in terms of stability and influence of internal and external disturbance, and system response using the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. The simulation results confirm the reliability of the proposed tuned GA and MPSO controllers. The PD controller gives the best performance when the quadrotor system operates at the equilibrium point, while SMC and BSC approaches give the best performance when the system does an aggressive maneuver outside the hovering condition. The overall final results show that the GA-tuned controllers can serve as a benchmark for comparing the global performance of aerial robotic control loops.
Lightweight Multipurpose Three-Arm Aerial Manipulator Systems for UAV Adaptive Leveling after Landing and Overhead Docking
Authors: Paul Hannibal , Martinez Ricardo Rosales , Ladig Robert , Shimonomura Kazuhiro
Published: November 2022

In aerial manipulation, the position and size of a manipulator attached to an aerial robot defines its workspace relative to the robot. However, the working region of a multipurpose robot is determined by its task and is not always predictable prior to deployment. In this paper, the development of a multipurpose manipulator design for a three-armed UAV with a large workspace around its airframe is proposed. The manipulator is designed to be lightweight and slim in order to not disrupt the UAV during in-flight manipulator movements. In the experiments, we demonstrate various advanced and critical tasks required of an aerial robot when deployed in a remote environment, focusing on the landing and docking tasks, which is accomplished using a single manipulator system.
Independent Control Spraying System for UAV-Based Precise Variable Sprayer: A Review
Authors: Hanif Adhitya Saiful , Han Xiongzhe , Yu Seung-Hwa
Published: November 2022

Pesticides are essential for removing plant pests and sustaining good yields on agricultural land. Excessive use has detrimental repercussions, such as the depletion of soil fertility and the proliferation of immune insect species, such as Nilaparvata lunges and Nezara viridula. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) variable-rate spraying offers a precise and adaptable alternative strategy for overcoming these challenges. This study explores research trends in the application of semi-automatic approaches and land-specific platforms for precision spraying. The employment of an autonomous control system, together with a selection of hardware such as microcontrollers, sensors, pumps, and nozzles, yields the performance necessary to accomplish spraying precision, UAV performance efficacy, and flexibility in meeting plant pesticide requirements. This paper discusses the implications of ongoing and developing research. The comparison of hardware, control system approaches, and data acquisition from the parameters of each study is presented to facilitate future research. Future research is incentivized to continue the precision performance of the variable rate development by combining it with cropland mapping to determine the need for pesticides, although strict limits on the amount of spraying make it difficult to achieve the same, even though the quality is very beneficial.
Fixed-Wing UAV Flight Operation under Harsh Weather Conditions: A Case Study in Livingston Island Glaciers, Antarctica
Authors: Bello Ana Belén , Navarro Francisco , Raposo Javier , Miranda Mónica , Zazo Arturo , Álvarez Marina
Published: November 2022

How do the weather conditions typical of the polar maritime glaciers in the western Antarctic Peninsula region affect flight operations of fixed-wing drones and how should these be adapted for a successful flight? We tried to answer this research question through a case study for Johnsons and Hurd glaciers, Livingston Island, using a fixed-wing RPAS, in particular, a Trimble UX5 UAV with electric pusher propeller by brushless 700 W motor, chosen for its ability to fly long distances and reach inaccessible areas. We also evaluated the accuracy of the point clouds and digital surface models (DSM) generated by aerial photogrammetry in our case study. The results were validated against ground control points taken by differential GNSS techniques, showing an accuracy of 0.16 ± 0.12 m in the vertical coordinate. Various hypotheses were proposed and flight-tested, based on variables affecting the flight operation and the data collection, namely, gusty winds, low temperatures, battery life, camera configuration, and snow reflectivity. We aim to provide some practical guidelines that can help other researchers using fixed-wing drones under climatic conditions similar to those of the South Shetland Islands. Performance of the drone under harsh weather conditions, the logistical considerations, and the amount of snow at the time of data collection are factors driving the necessary modifications from those of conventional flight operations. We make suggestions concerning wind speed and temperature limitations, and avoidance of sudden fog banks, aimed to improve the planning of flight operations. Finally, we make some suggestions for further research.
Inconsistencies in Modeling Impact with Friction by Algebraic Equations
Authors: Baruh Haim
Published: November 2022

This paper is concerned with inconsistent results that can be obtained when modeling rigid body collisions via algebraic equations. Newton’s approach is kinematic and fails in several cases. Poisson’s formulation has been shown lead to energetic inconsistencies, particularly in work done by the impulsive forces. This paper shows that the energetic formulation may lead to unexpected results in the magnitudes of the impulsive forces. These inconsistencies are due to the simplifying assumptions made to model collisions as occurring instantaneously. The inconsistencies increase as friction in the system becomes higher. We propose an optimization procedure for solving the algebraic equations of impact so that inconsistencies are minimized. Using experimental results, we present a discussion about the coefficients of restitution and friction.
On the Complete Description of Entangled Systems Part II: The (Meta)Physical Status and Semantic Aspects
Authors: Svozil Karl
Published: November 2022

We review some semantical aspects of probability bounds from Boole’s “conditions on possible experience” violated by quantum mechanics. We also speculate about emerging space-time categories as an epiphenomenon of quantization and the resulting breakdown of relativity theory by non-unitary and non-linear processes.
Functional Connectome of the Human Brain with Total Correlation
Authors: Li Qiang , Steeg Greg Ver , Yu Shujian , Malo Jesus
Published: November 2022

Recent studies proposed the use of Total Correlation to describe functional connectivity among brain regions as a multivariate alternative to conventional pairwise measures such as correlation or mutual information. In this work, we build on this idea to infer a large-scale (whole-brain) connectivity network based on Total Correlation and show the possibility of using this kind of network as biomarkers of brain alterations. In particular, this work uses Correlation Explanation (CorEx) to estimate Total Correlation. First, we prove that CorEx estimates of Total Correlation and clustering results are trustable compared to ground truth values. Second, the inferred large-scale connectivity network extracted from the more extensive open fMRI datasets is consistent with existing neuroscience studies, but, interestingly, can estimate additional relations beyond pairwise regions. And finally, we show how the connectivity graphs based on Total Correlation can also be an effective tool to aid in the discovery of brain diseases.
Mildly Explosive Autoregression with Strong Mixing Errors
Authors: Liu Xian , Li Xiaoqin , Gao Min , Yang Wenzhi
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we consider the mildly explosive autoregression yt=ρnyt−1+ut, 1≤t≤n, where ρn=1+c/nν, c>0, ν∈(0,1), and u1,…,un are arithmetically α-mixing errors. Under some weak conditions, such as Eu1=0, E|u1|4+δ<∞ for some δ>0 and mixing coefficients α(n)=O(n−(2+8/δ)), the Cauchy limiting distribution is established for the least squares (LS) estimator ρ^n of ρn, which extends the cases of independent errors and geometrically α-mixing errors. Some simulations for ρn, such as the empirical probability of the confidence interval and the empirical density, are presented to illustrate the Cauchy limiting distribution, which have good finite sample performances. In addition, we use the Cauchy limiting distribution of the LS estimator ρ^n to illustrate real data from the NASDAQ composite index from April 2011 to April 2021.
Jarzyski’s Equality and Crooks’ Fluctuation Theorem for General Markov Chains with Application to Decision-Making Systems
Authors: Hack Pedro , Gottwald Sebastian , Braun Daniel A.
Published: November 2022

We define common thermodynamic concepts purely within the framework of general Markov chains and derive Jarzynski’s equality and Crooks’ fluctuation theorem in this setup. In particular, we regard the discrete-time case, which leads to an asymmetry in the definition of work that appears in the usual formulation of Crooks’ fluctuation theorem. We show how this asymmetry can be avoided with an additional condition regarding the energy protocol. The general formulation in terms of Markov chains allows transferring the results to other application areas outside of physics. Here, we discuss how this framework can be applied in the context of decision-making. This involves the definition of the relevant quantities, the assumptions that need to be made for the different fluctuation theorems to hold, as well as the consideration of discrete trajectories instead of the continuous trajectories, which are relevant in physics.
Decomposed Entropy and Estimation of Output Power in Deformed Microcavity Lasers
Authors: Park Kyu-Won , Son Kwon-Wook , Ju Chang-Hyun , Jeong Kabgyun
Published: November 2022

Park et al. showed that the Shannon entropy of the probability distribution of a single random variable for far-field profiles (FFPs) in deformed microcavity lasers can efficiently measure the directionality of deformed microcavity lasers. In this study, we instead consider two random variables of FFPs with joint probability distributions and introduce the decomposed (Shannon) entropy for the peak intensities of directional emissions. This provides a new foundation such that the decomposed entropy can estimate the degree of the output power at given FFPs without any further information.
Foreign Direct Investment Elasticities of Output, Labor, and Wages in Chile: A Simultaneous Equations Approach
Authors: Modrego Félix , Ortega Jorge , Planas Lenia , Astudillo Álvaro
Published: November 2022

We estimate foreign direct investment elasticities of output, of unskilled and skilled labor, and of unskilled and skilled wages for Chile, both at an aggregate level and for eight economic sectors. We use regional data from official Chilean sources ranging from 2012 to 2019 and data from economic sectors in each region for the period 1996–2011. Estimates are based on a simultaneous equation approach, which considers the two-way relationships between FDI and output as well as the relationships between output, labor, and wages stressed by the duality theory of production in economics. The estimations confirm that FDI triggers growth and that FDI follows growth. Due to the positive effects on output, FDI boosts employment creation, particularly of skilled labor. The estimated effects on wages are not significant, either statistically or practically. The output and labor effects of FDI are positive and significant in all economic sectors, but point estimates suggest that they could be larger for the agriculture-forestry-fishing sector. The results indicate that realistic increases in FDI can have substantial output and employment effects in Chile.
Production Function Based on Input–Output and Growth Rate Indicators as a Tool for Assessment of Innovation Climate in Russian Regions
Authors: Samoilova Liudmila , Rodionov Dmitry
Published: November 2022

Assessment of the innovation climate in Russian regions is a priority. Given the uneven socio-economic development of the federation subjects, it is essential to determine their readiness for the transition to an innovative course. However, due to the high degree of differentiation in the socio-economic development of Russian regions, when using methods based solely on tracking indicators, there is a decrease in the objectivity of the assessment. This is caused by a significant spread in the values of the indicators, which provokes the distortion of the final calculations. To avoid the subjectivization of calculations, it is appropriate to supplement them with the construction of functional dependencies. In this regard, the purpose of the study was to substantiate hypotheses about the possibility of using the production function to assess regions’ innovation climate. The process of evaluating the innovative climate of meso-territories is implemented using the methods of statistical analysis: absolute and relative statistical values, indices, interquartile range, time series, and regression analysis. As a result of building production function models in volumetric and temporal records, arguments are formulated regarding its use to characterize innovative conditions. In the study, an additional character of the production function was established; it is possible to use it, but with several assumptions. The obstacles to innovative transformations in the Russian regions are formulated based on the calculations. The scientific contribution of the authors comes down to substantiating the expediency of combining heterogeneous methods of analysis in identifying innovative conditions in Russian regions; it is proposed to combine both a generally recognized tool for these purposes—indicative analysis and a less common one—a production function.