bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the Conductive Hearing Loss in NOG-Related Symphalangism Spectrum Disorder Congenital?
Authors: Nakashima Takahiro , Ganaha Akira , Tsumagari Shougo , Nakamura Takeshi , Yamada Yuusuke , Nakamura Eriko , Usami Shin-ichi , Tono Tetsuya
Published: February 2021

We describe a dominant Japanese patient with progressive conductive hearing loss who was diagnosed with NOG-related symphalangism spectrum disorder (NOG-SSD), a spectrum of congenital stapes fixation syndromes caused by NOG mutations. Based on the clinical features, including proximal symphalangism, conductive hearing loss, hyper­opia, and short, broad middle, and distal phalanges of the thumbs, his family was diagnosed with stapes ankylosis with broad thumbs and toes syndrome (SABTT). Genetic analysis revealed a heterozygous substitution in the NOG gene, c.645C>A, p.C215* in affected family individuals. He had normal hearing on auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing at ages 9 months and 1 and 2 years. He was followed up to evaluate the hearing level because of his family history of hearing loss caused by SABTT. Follow-up pure tone average testing revealed the development of progressive conductive hearing loss. Stapes surgery was performed, and his post-operative hearing threshold improved to normal in both ears. According to hearing test results, the stapes ankylosis in our SABTT patient seemed to be incomplete at birth and progressive in early childhood. The ABR results in our patient indicated the possibility that newborn hearing screening may not detect conductive hearing loss in patients with NOG-SSD. Hence, children with a family history and/or known congenital joint abnormality should undergo periodic hearing tests due to possible progressive hearing loss. Because of high success rates of stapes surgeries in cases of SABTT, early surgical interventions would help minimise the negative effect of hearing loss during school age. Identification of the nature of conductive hearing loss due to progressive stapes ankylosis allows for better genetic counselling and proper intervention in NOG-SSD patients.
Gastric Cancer Microbiome
Authors: Barra Williams Fernandes , Sarquis Dionison Pereira , Khayat André Salim , Khayat Bruna Cláudia Meireles , Demachki Samia , Anaissi Ana Karyssa Mendes , Ishak Geraldo , Santos Ney Pereira Carneiro , dos Santos Sidney Emanuel Batista , Burbano Rommel Rodriguez , Moreira Fabiano Cordeiro , de Assumpção Paulo Pimentel
Published: February 2021

Identifying a microbiome pattern in gastric cancer (GC) is hugely debatable due to the variation resulting from the diversity of the studied populations, clinical scenarios, and metagenomic approach. H. pylori remains the main microorganism impacting gastric carcinogenesis and seems necessary for the initial steps of the process. Nevertheless, an additional non-H. pylori microbiome pattern is also described, mainly at the final steps of the carcinogenesis. Unfortunately, most of the presented results are not reproducible, and there are no consensual candidates to share the H. pylori protagonists. Limitations to reach a consistent interpretation of metagenomic data include contamination along every step of the process, which might cause relevant misinterpretations. In addition, the functional consequences of an altered microbiome might be addressed. Aiming to minimize methodological bias and limitations due to small sample size and the lack of standardization of bioinformatics assessment and interpretation, we carried out a comprehensive analysis of the publicly available metagenomic data from various conditions relevant to gastric carcinogenesis. Mainly, instead of just analyzing the results of each available publication, a new approach was launched, allowing the comprehensive analysis of the total sample amount, aiming to produce a reliable interpretation due to using a significant number of samples, from different origins, in a standard protocol. Among the main results, Helicobacter and Prevotella figured in the “top 6” genera of every group. Helicobacter was the first one in chronic gastritis (CG), gastric cancer (GC), and adjacent (ADJ) groups, while Prevotella was the leader among healthy control (HC) samples. Groups of bacteria are differently abundant in each clinical situation, and bacterial metabolic pathways also diverge along the carcinogenesis cascade. This information may support future microbiome interventions aiming to face the carcinogenesis process and/or reduce GC risk.
The Association between Serum Heme Oxygenase-1 Levels and Coronary SYNTAX Score
Authors: Simsek Mustafa Aytek , Korkmaz Betül , Ezici Adnan , Turer Cabbar Ayca , Aslanger Emre , Ozkalayci Flora , Karabay Can Yucel , Degertekin Muzaffer
Published: February 2021

Aim: The relationship between heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) levels and atherosclerosis was investigated in multiple studies. The aim of this study was to establish the relationship between HO-1 levels and coronary SYNergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with TAXus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: Patients who had been planned to undergo invasive coronary angiography due to a suspected CAD, between the dates of September and December 2019, were included in the study. Serum HO-1 levels were measured from peripheral venous blood. The SYNTAX score was calculated using standard coronary angiography images. Regression analysis was performed to establish the relationship between HO-1 levels and the SYNTAX score. Results: In total, 137 patients were included. The median age was 63 years (IQR: 15), and most of the patients were male (75.2%). The median HO-1 level was 1.44 (IQR: 0.88) ng/mL, and the median SYNTAX score was 6 (IQR: 13). Regression analysis showed that HO-1 is the single most important variable associated with the SYNTAX score (HO-1 levels from 1.01 to 1.87 ng/mL, OR: 6.77, 95% confidence interval 5.18–8.36, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: In this study, serum HO-1 levels were significantly associated with the coronary SYNTAX score.
The more we know, the more we forget…
Authors: Sokurenko L. M. , Chaikovsky Yu. B. , Majewskyi O. E. , Yaremenko L. M. , Bidenko N. V. , Filonenko V. V. , Melnyk A. O.
Published: February 2021

Summary. Students of dentistry faculties need a special methodological approach aimed at the acquisition of practical skills, but the study of fundamental disciplines is different from the dental-oriented ones.

The aim of the study – to assess presumed deficits in the histology, cytology, and embryology knowledge of dentistry students at O. Bohomolets National Medical University, to identify the problems associated with it, and to address them.

Materials and Methods. Testing of students of different courses of O. Bohomolets National Medical University using the standard licensed examination tests ‘‘Step 1 Dentistry’’.

Results and Discussion. Students of the dentistry faculty have shown the level of students’ knowledge at 4th and 5th years – 33.5 %. The general result of the ‘‘Step 1 Dentistry’’ license exam in the same students is 66.6 % (2019) and 62.2 % (2018), respectively. The percentage of this result of the test higher when checked professional direct knowledge. We found that it was determined the prevalence of correct answers in the block on the topic "Oral Cavity" at the test on histology, cytology and embryology of  O. Bohomolets NMU Dentistry Faculty different courses students.

Conclusions. In accordance with the obtained results and the analysis of the problems, it is recommended to make adjustments to the curricula and control measures with a focus on the competencies that will be applied in professional activities.
Blood Pressure Effects of Sodium Reduction
Authors: Filippini Tommaso , Malavolti Marcella , Whelton Paul K. , Naska Androniki , Orsini Nicola , Vinceti Marco
Published: February 2021

Background:

The relationship between dietary sodium intake and blood pressure (BP) has been tested in clinical trials and nonexperimental human studies, indicating a direct association. The exact shape of the dose–response relationship has been difficult to assess in clinical trials because of the lack of random-effects dose–response statistical models that can include 2-arm comparisons.

Methods:

After performing a comprehensive literature search for experimental studies that investigated the BP effects of changes in dietary sodium intake, we conducted a dose–response meta-analysis using the new 1-stage cubic spline mixed-effects model. We included trials with at least 4 weeks of follow-up; 24-hour urinary sodium excretion measurements; sodium manipulation through dietary change or supplementation, or both; and measurements of systolic and diastolic BP at the beginning and end of treatment.

Results:

We identified 85 eligible trials with sodium intake ranging from 0.4 to 7.6 g/d and follow-up from 4 weeks to 36 months. The trials were conducted in participants with hypertension (n=65), without hypertension (n=11), or a combination (n=9). Overall, the pooled data were compatible with an approximately linear relationship between achieved sodium intake and mean systolic as well as diastolic BP, with no indication of a flattening of the curve at either the lowest or highest levels of sodium exposure. Results were similar for participants with or without hypertension, but the former group showed a steeper decrease in BP after sodium reduction. Intervention duration (≥12 weeks versus 4 to 11 weeks), type of study design (parallel or crossover), use of antihypertensive medication, and participants’ sex had little influence on the BP effects of sodium reduction. Additional analyses based on the BP effect of difference in sodium exposure between study arms at the end of the trial confirmed the results on the basis of achieved sodium intake.

Conclusions:

In this dose–response analysis of sodium reduction in clinical trials, we identified an approximately linear relationship between sodium intake and reduction in both systolic and diastolic BP across the entire range of dietary sodium exposure. Although this occurred independently of baseline BP, the effect of sodium reduction on level of BP was more pronounced in participants with a higher BP level.
Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety Outcomes of Edoxaban in 8040 Women Versus 13 065 Men With Atrial Fibrillation in the ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48 Trial
Authors: Zelniker Thomas A. , Ardissino Maddalena , Andreotti Felicita , O’Donoghue Michelle L. , Yin Ophelia , Park Jeong-Gun , Murphy Sabina A. , Ruff Christian T. , Lanz Hans J. , Antman Elliott M. , Braunwald Eugene , Giugliano Robert P. , Merlini Piera Angelica
Published: February 2021

Background:

Female sex is an independent risk factor for stroke and systemic embolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation. This study aimed to examine the efficacy and safety profile of edoxaban in women versus men.

Methods:

The ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48 trial (Effective Anticoagulation with Factor Xa Next Generation in Atrial Fibrillation-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 48) randomly assigned 21 105 patients (8040 women) with atrial fibrillation and CHADS
2
score ≥2 either to a higher-dose edoxaban regimen, a lower-dose edoxaban regimen, or warfarin. The primary end points of the trial were the composite of stroke or systemic embolic events (efficacy), and International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis–defined major bleeding (safety).

Results:

In comparison with men, women were older, had lower body weight, were more likely to have hypertension and renal dysfunction, but less likely to smoke, drink alcohol, or have diabetes or coronary artery disease. Pretreatment endogenous factor Xa activity was significantly higher in women than in men (92.5% versus 86.1%,
P
<0.001). Treatment with edoxaban in women resulted in greater peak edoxaban concentration and inhibition of endogenous factor Xa in comparison with men, resulting in similar endogenous factor Xa activity between the sexes 2 to 4 hours after dose. Treatment with higher-dose edoxaban regimen (versus warfarin) resulted in similar reduction in the risk of stroke/systemic embolic events (women: hazard ratio [HR], 0.87 [0.69–1.11], men: HR, 0.87 [0.71–1.06];
P
-interaction=0.97) and major bleeding (women: HR, 0.74 [0.59–0.92], men: HR, 0.84 [0.72–0.99];
P
-interaction=0.34) in women and men. However, women assigned to higher-dose edoxaban regimen experienced greater reductions in hemorrhagic stroke (HR, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.15–0.59] versus HR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.46–1.06]), intracranial bleeding (HR, 0.20 [95% CI, 0.10–0.39] versus HR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.44–0.89]), and life-threatening or fatal bleeding (HR, 0.25 [95% CI, 0.15–0.42] versus HR, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.54–0.96]) than men (each
P
-interaction<0.05).

Conclusions:

Despite many differences in baseline characteristics between women and men and higher baseline endogenous factor Xa levels in women, the intensity of anticoagulation achieved with edoxaban between the sexes was similar. Treatment with higher-dose edoxaban regimen resulted in an even greater reduction in hemorrhagic stroke and several serious bleeding outcomes in women than in men, whereas the efficacy profile was similar between sexes.
Remodeling of Retinal Microcirculation Is Associated With Subclinical Arterial Injury in Hypertensive Children
Authors: Rogowska Anna , Obrycki Łukasz , Kułaga Zbigniew , Kowalewska Claudia , Litwin Mieczysław
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between hypertensive target organ damage and vessel density (VD), foveal thickness, thickness of retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell complex, and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) using optical coherence tomography angiography in a nonselected group of hypertensive children. One hundred fifty-seven children (56 girls) in mean age 14.9±2.9 years, in whom arterial hypertension was ultimately diagnosed were included in the study. FAZ, whole, fovea, parafovea superficial VD, whole, fovea, parafovea deep VD, foveal thickness, retinal nerve fiber layer, and ganglion cell complex were taken into analysis. Both absolute and standardized values of carotid intima-media thickness correlated with the larger FAZ area (
P
=0.035,
r
=0.17;
P
=0.01,
r
=0.2, respectively). Subjects with increased carotid intima-media thickness had significantly larger FAZ (
P
=0.024), reduced fovea superficial VD (
P
=0.039), and foveal thickness (
P
=0.007). Left ventricular hypertrophy and increased carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity were not associated with optical coherence tomography angiography parameters. Multiple linear regression revealed that the only determinant of FAZ and foveal thickness was higher carotid intima-media thickness–SD score, and for fovea superficial VD, the only determinant was central systolic blood pressure. In conclusion, hypertensive children present with signs of remodeling of microcirculation and decreased neural layer of retina associated with hypertensive macrocirculation remodeling expressed as increased carotid intima-media thickness and elevated central systolic blood pressure.
Complex Relationship Between Cardiac Fibroblasts and Cardiomyocytes in Health and Disease
Authors: Hall Caitlin , Gehmlich Katja , Denning Chris , Pavlovic Davor
Published: February 2021

Cardiac fibroblasts are the primary cell type responsible for deposition of extracellular matrix in the heart, providing support to the contracting myocardium and contributing to a myriad of physiological signaling processes. Despite the importance of fibrosis in processes of wound healing, excessive fibroblast proliferation and activation can lead to pathological remodeling, driving heart failure and the onset of arrhythmias. Our understanding of the mechanisms driving the cardiac fibroblast activation and proliferation is expanding, and evidence for their direct and indirect effects on cardiac myocyte function is accumulating. In this review, we focus on the importance of the fibroblast‐to‐myofibroblast transition and the cross talk of cardiac fibroblasts with cardiac myocytes. We also consider the current use of models used to explore these questions.
Vienna-Paris-Corfu: Japonisme and Gregorios Manos (1851–1928)
Authors: Kagouridi Kassiani
Published: February 2021

The present study defines the connection between Japonisme and the Greek diplomat and donor-collector Gregorios Manos (1851–1928). Manos collected Japanese pieces during the reign of Japonisme in Europe, was a pioneer of the study of Japanese art in Greece, and the first donor of Chinese and Japanese artifacts to the Greek State in 1919. The donation resulted in the foundation, in 1926, of the Sino-Japanese Museum (renamed in Museum of Asian Art in 1973) in Corfu. The present research is based on primary and secondary sources and seeks to present unpublished data as well as re-examine Manos’ connection to Japonisme. In addition, this micro-perspective research aims to reveal Manos’ studies, diplomatic carrier, collecting practices, and donating vision. At the same time, it hopes to enrich macro-perspective study by outlining the circumstances under which collectors founded museums of Asian art in peripheral places, such as Greece, during the first half of the twentieth century under and beyond the allure of Japonisme.
The Mansana Collection. A Treasury of Japanese Art in Barcelona at the Turn of the Twentieth Century
Authors: Bru Ricard
Published: February 2021

Josep Mansana Dordan, a well-known Catalan late-nineteenth-century businessman, founded what is considered the finest collection of Japanese art established in Catalonia and in Spain at the turn of the century. In the early twentieth century, the Mansana Collection, as it was known, enjoyed popularity and prestige in Barcelona thanks to its constant expansion driven by the founder’s son, Josep Mansana Terrés, also an entrepreneur. The collection was well known at the time, but fell into oblivion after the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936. It was not until 2013 that, on the occasion of the exhibition Japonisme. La fascinació per l’art japonès, the collection began to be rediscovered and studied. This article aims to present a first complete overview of the history and characteristics of the old Mansana Collection and its impact on Barcelona at and immediately after the turn of the twentieth century.
Mastogloia jahniae sp. nov., a new diatom (Bacillariophyceae) from the Baltic Sea coast of Sweden

Authors: AL-HANDAL ADIL Y. , WULFF ANGELA , PENNESI CHIARA
Published: February 2021

Described is here Mastogloia jahniae sp. nov. a species new to science from Skatan on the Baltic Sea, east coast of Sweden. Description of this new species is based on light and scanning electron microscopy. The new species is classified in the Mastogloia section Ellipticae and is characterized by having radiating short and long striae around the central area, sinuous raphe branches and partecta displaced toward the middle of the valve by a siliceous flange. M. jahniae sp. nov. in terms of size is rather small whereas in terms of ecology appears an epipelic brackish water species. The new species was rather rare in all samples collected from Skatan and has not been found in the other adjacent regions sampled. A comparison with similar established Mastogloia species is provided.
Two species of Talitridae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from Kenya
Authors: BICHANG’A JOSHUA SESE , KIOKO ESTHER N. , LIU HONGGUANG , LI SHUQIANG , HOU ZHONGE
Published: February 2021

Two species of the family Talitridae Rafinesque, 1815 are described from English Point Beach, Mkomani, Mombasa, Kenya. One new species Floresorchestia mkomani Bichang’a & Hou, sp. nov. is reported and Gazia gazi Lowry & Springthorpe, 2019 is redescribed. The new species is characterized by the five dentate lacinia mobilis on the left mandible in male and only four in female, pereopod IV dactylus thickened proximally and having a small protrusion towards the mid of its posterior margin, a sexually dimorphic pereopod VII, and the presence of vertical slits just above the ventral margin of epimera II and III. Detailed morphological characteristics, as well as comparisons with closely related species are provided. To ascertain the species delimitation, molecular evidence is availed in this paper. Type material is deposited in National Museums of Kenya (NMK).
New records of bat flies (Diptera: Nycteribiidae), with an updated checklist of the nycteribiids of Russia
Authors: ORLOVA MARIA V. , KLIMOV PAVEL B. , MOSKVITINA NINA S. , ORLOV OLEG L. , ZHIGALIN ALEXANDER V. , SMIRNOV DMITRIY G. , DZHAMIRZOYEV HADZHIBEK S. , VEKHNIK VLADIMIR P. , PAVLOV ALEXANDER V. , EMELYANOVA ALLA A. , KHRISTENKO EKATERINA
Published: February 2021

We assembled a checklist by documenting and curating previously published data as well as previously unpublished records of bat flies from the Russian Federation. A total of 20 bat fly species are listed, belonging to 4 genera. Basilia mongolensis nudior Hůrka, 1972 and Basilia nattereri (Kolenati, 1857) are recorded from Russia for the first time. The following new host associations are reported: Basilia mongolensis nudior ex Myotis nattereri (Kuhl), Basilia nattereri ex Eptesicus nilssonii (Keyserling & Blasius), Basilia rybini Hůrka, 1969 ex Myotis dasycneme (Boie) and Eptesicus nilssonii, and Nycteribia quasiocellata Theodor, 1966 ex Vespertilio murinus Linnaeus. We provide data on nine major Russian regions for which nycteribiid records were previously lacking.
First two cockroaches from the early Eocene of western Rajasthan, India (Insecta: Blattodea)
Authors: PATEL RAMAN , RANA RAJENDRA SINGH , NEL ANDRE
Published: February 2021

We describe the first two Blattodea from the early Eocene Palana Formation of the Gurha opencast lignite mine, western Rajasthan, India. Although it is not possible to attribute them to a precise family, these large wings suggest a warm and humid paleoclimate for the area at that time.
Soft sensor hybrid model of dynamic liquid level for sucker rod pump oil wells
Authors: Chen Bingjun , Gao Xianwen
Published: February 2021

The measurement of the dynamic liquid level is of great importance during the oil-producing process of rod pumping wells. It may affect the production of oil fields and motor efficiency. However, the dynamic liquid level is difficult to detect because of the circumstances in the downhole of rod pump wells. In this paper. Firstly, according to the working principles of the sucker rod pump, the mechanical models of the pumping motor and four-bar linkage mechanism are respectively built. Secondly, for the underground frictions, a mechanical model based on the energy conservation equation is built and then the mechanism model is built between the dynamic liquid level and power of the motor. To improve the accuracy of the mechanism model, a novel method based on an artificial fish swarm algorithm optimization Gaborc-kernel extreme learning machine is used to establish a soft sensor dynamic liquid level error compensation model. The mechanism model is paralleled with the soft sensor model to establish a hybrid model of dynamic liquid level. Eventually, the AFSA-Gaborc-KELM soft sensor hybrid model is verified by using the oil dataset collected from the electrical parameter acquisition equipment. This hybrid model is compared with some other models. In the comparison, the proposed hybrid model has better performance and prediction accuracy for the dynamic liquid level than the BP hybrid model, GA-ELM hybrid model, and LSSVM hybrid model.
Familial Moralities: Moral (Re)source of Commitment in the Immigrant Rights Movement in El Paso, Texas
Authors: Márquez Alejandro
Published: February 2021

Social movement scholars acknowledge the importance of morality in joining and shaping social movements. There is less knowledge about the content of morality that keeps social movement participants committed, once in. Moral commitments, I argue, emerge from the work conducted within social movements. By looking at everyday activities in the immigrant rights movement in El Paso, Texas, I analyze how commitment is shaped through the caregiving practices of staff and volunteers within two organizations serving immigrants and asylum seekers on the border: Compromiso and Casa Asuncion. Despite the strenuous work involved, I find care givers in these two organizations make sense of their continued participation by drawing on what I call familial moralities. At Compromiso, a legal aid office, caregivers reflect on their or others’ immigrant family histories, creating an intellectual attachment to the work through family. At Casa Asuncion, a migrant shelter, caregivers draw on new familial roles with migrants and the shelter staff, creating an emotional attachment as family.
Leveraging Positive Behavior Supports to Improve Engagement in Virtual Settings
Authors: Speight Renee , Kucharczyk Suzanne
Published: February 2021

High-levels of classroom engagement and on-task behavior have been linked to positive outcomes for students. In traditional classroom settings when levels of on-task behaviors are low, teacher integration of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) can facilitate improvement in student engagement. PBIS strategies such as creating clear routines and expectations, explicit instruction on expected behaviors, acknowledging behavior, and a high level of opportunities to respond have demonstrated efficacy for improving engagement across grade levels. As teachers increasingly adjust their teaching to virtual platforms these evidence-based practices should continue to be a part of their instructional repertoire. Unfortunately, teachers may have little experience in leveraging such practices to improve engagement in virtual classrooms. With the recent shift to virtual instruction due to the pandemic, it is important teachers are equipped with knowledge and skills to implement PBIS in virtual classroom settings to improve student outcomes. This manuscript provides a how-to guide to support teachers and administrators in effective and efficient use of PBIS in online platforms to bridge the gap in practice. Steps and an implementation checklist are included to improve virtual learning engagement by utilizing tools within online platforms such as Zoom and GSuite to clarify virtual expectations and increase student demonstration of expected behaviors.
Partnering to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening: Perspectives of Community Advisory Board Members
Authors: Rawl Susan M. , Bailey Sandra , Cork Beatrice , Fields Matthew , Griffin Thomas , Haunert Laura , Kline Judy , Krier Connie , Lagunes Juan , Lambert Ruth L. , Malloy Caeli , Quick Jack , Shedd-Steele Rivienne , Strom Sylvia , Carter-Harris Lisa
Published: February 2021

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) defines engagement in research as the meaningful involvement of patients, caregivers, clinicians, insurers, and others throughout the entire research process—from planning to conducting the study to disseminating study results. The purposes of this paper are to (a) describe methods used to engage community members across the various phases of a PCORI-funded comparative effectiveness trial to increase colorectal cancer screening; and (b) report results of qualitative and quantitative evaluations of community advisory board members’ experiences on this project. Decisions to join and stay engaged with the study included feeling valued and appreciated, being compensated, the opportunity to contribute to research based on their skills and expertise, and being committed to colon cancer prevention efforts. Challenges identified by advisory board members included the significant time commitment, transportation, and meeting location. Lessons learned and guidance for researchers committed to patient and community engagement are described.
Different clinical features between patients with ROS1-positive and ALK-positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Ji Xianxiu , Xie Huikang , Zhu Ren , Chen Bin , Jiang Sen , Luo Jie
Published: February 2021

Objective

To compare the baseline clinical characteristics between patients with ROS1-positive and ALK-positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and the correlations of these subtypes with the distribution of metastases.

Methods

We compared the clinical characteristics and imaging features of patients with ROS1-positive and ALK-positive NSCLC using statistical methods.

Results

Data for 232 patients were analyzed. Compared with ALK-positive NSCLC, ROS1-positive NSCLC was more likely to occur in women (71% vs 53%), and primary lesions ≤3 cm were more common in patients with ROS1-positive compared with ALK-positive NSCLC (58% vs 37%). There was no significant difference in the distribution of metastases between the two groups. Subgroup analysis within the ROS1-positive group showed that, compared with primary lesions >3 cm, primary lesions ≤3 cm were more likely to present as peripheral tumors (72% vs 43%) and more likely to exhibit non-solid density (44% vs 4%).

Conclusions

Although ROS1-positive and ALK-positive NSCLCs show similar clinical features, the differences may help clinicians to identify patients requiring further genotyping at initial diagnosis.
Management of a mechanical aortic valve during left ventricular assist device implantation in a previously replaced aortic root
Authors: Tulimat Tamam , Osman Bassam , Beresian Jean , Sfeir Pierre , Borgi Jamil
Published: February 2021

The use of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) in patients with mechanical aortic valves may result in thromboembolic events due to blood stasis around the valve and intermittent valve opening. Mechanical aortic valves encountered during LVAD implantation are managed by replacement with a tissue valve, or closure of the valve with a patch. Closure of the valve carries the risk of sudden death in cases of LVAD stoppage. Replacing the whole mechanical valve conduit is time consuming and carries a significant risk of bleeding and right ventricular (RV) failure. We describe an alternative technique of replacing a mechanical aortic valve by breaking its inner leaflets and sewing a tissue valve on top of the mechanical valve ring.
Examining the Reading and Cognitive Profiles of Students With Significant Reading Comprehension Difficulties
Authors: Capin Philip , Cho Eunsoo , Miciak Jeremy , Roberts Greg , Vaughn Sharon
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the word reading and listening comprehension difficulties of fourth-grade students with significant reading comprehension deficits and the cognitive difficulties that underlie these weaknesses. Latent profile analysis was used to classify a sample of fourth-grade students ( n = 446) who scored below the 16th percentile on a measure of reading comprehension into subgroups based on their performance in word reading (WR) and listening comprehension (LC). Three latent profiles emerged: (a) moderate deficits in both WR and LC of similar severity (91%), (b) severe deficit in WR paired with moderate LC deficit (5%), and (c) severe deficit in LC with moderate WR difficulties (4%). Analyses examining the associations between cognitive attributes and group membership indicated students with lower performance on cognitive predictors were more likely to be in a severe subgroup. Implications for educators targeting improved reading performance for upper elementary students with significant reading difficulties were discussed.
From “Big Small Town” to “Small Big City”: Resident Experiences of Gentrification along Waterloo Region’s LRT Corridor
Authors: Ellis-Young Margaret , Doucet Brian
Published: February 2021

Most studies of transit-induced gentrification rely on statistical analysis that measures the extent to which gentrification is occurring. To extend and enhance our knowledge of its impact, we conducted sixty-five interviews with residents living along the light rail transit (LRT) corridor in Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada, shortly before the system opened. There was already strong evidence of gentrification, with more than $3 billion (Canadian dollars) worth of investment, largely in condominiums, before a single passenger was carried. In line with contemporary critical conceptualizations of gentrification, our interviews identified new and complex psychological, phenomenological, and experiential aspects of gentrification, in addition to economic- or class-based changes.
Effect of design parameters on stresses occurring at the tooth root in a spur gear pressed on a shaft
Authors: Güven Fatih
Published: February 2021

Gears are commonly used in transmission systems to adjust velocity and torque. An integral gear or an interference fit could be used in a gearbox. Integral gears are mostly preferred as driving gear for a compact design to reduce the weight of the system. Interference fit makes the replacement of damaged gear possible and re-use of the shaft compared to the integral shaft. However, internal pressure occurs between mating surfaces of the components mated. This internal pressure affects the stress distribution at the root and bottom land of the gear. In this case, gear parameters should be re-considered to assure gear life while reducing the size of the gear. In this study, interference fitted gear-shaft assembly was examined numerically. The effects of rim thickness, profile shifting, module and fit tolerance on bending stress occurring at the root of the gear were investigated to optimize gear design parameters. Finite element models were in good agreement with analytical solutions. Results showed that the rim thickness of the gear is the main parameter in terms of tangential stress occurring at the bottom land of the gear. Positive profile shifting reduces the tangential stress while the pitch diameter of the gear remains constant. Also, lower tolerance class could be selected to moderate stress for small rim thickness.
Analysis on the unsteady flow structures in the tip region of axial compressor
Authors: Song Mo-Ru , Yang Bo
Published: February 2021

The unsteady characteristic in the tip region of an axial compressor has been numerically studied with the help of the dynamic mode decomposition analysis. The characteristics of frequency and dynamic modes are compared and discussed under different operating points and different parameters, such as tip clearance and rotating speeds. For the flowfield structures in the tip region, such as tip leakage flow, separation flow and shock wave, their relationships with the unsteadiness are studied in detail. Except for the unsteadiness caused by the interaction between rotating rotor and the stationary boundaries, it is found that the unsteadiness is attributed to the moving of the low-velocity cell. Based on the generation and the development of the low-velocity cell, the unsteady characteristics in tip region are divided into 4 types: BPF-dominated, shedding-dominated, self-induced and separation-dominated. When the tip leakage flow is weak, the unsteadiness in the tip region is only triggered by the blade sweeping. As the tip leakage flow gets stronger to a certain extent, the low-velocity cell is shed into the flow passage and mixed with the main-flow. When the main-flow is weaker under the low flowrate condition, the interaction between the low-velocity cell and the pressure side occurs and generates a new low-velocity cell near the leading-edge of the neighboring blade. The frequency of the new cell generation is actually the self-induced frequency. In the zero and small clearance model, the low-velocity is shed by the separation in the leading-edge and the casing-suction corner. By understanding these unsteady characteristics, the change tendency of the leading frequency in the rotor tip is easily explained and forecasted. Furthermore, under the transonic operation condition, the low-velocity cell is decelerated and eliminated by the shock wave in the unsteadiness of the self-induced type and the separation-dominated type, respectively. Thus, the leading frequency in the tip flow field is moderated.
Integrating lean design and eco-design to improve product design: From literature review to an operational framework
Authors: Dahmani Noureddine , Belhadi Amine , Benhida Khalid , Elfezazi Said , Touriki Fatima Ezahra , Azougagh Yassine
Published: February 2021

Lean manufacturing accomplishments have led researchers and practitioners to consider extending lean to different engineering enterprise parts, including product and process development. However, in the early phases of product development, it is important to both reduce costs and improve a product's sustainability performance. This paper develops a framework to guide designers and manufacturing managers to design products that better meet customer needs and requirements for sustainable products and services. To achieve this, a critical review of the existing literature in the field of lean design, and eco-design was conducted to fill the research gap and then develop the proposed methodological framework. The integration aimed to create synergies to extend the integration benefits and promote rational use of resources and time to create value for customers by eliminating waste and unnecessary actions in the product development process. The main objective is to ensure the development of products with minimal negative impacts on the natural environment. To our knowledge, this is the first time in the literature that an integrated framework is bringing together lean design and eco-design principles, practices, guidelines, drivers, barriers, and success factors. The framework can potentially serve product designers, manufacturing engineers, sales/marketing personnel, in fact, anyone who has a vested interest in designing environmentally friendly products.
Robust fractional-order fixed-structure controller design for uncertain non-commensurate fractional plants using fractional Kharitonov theorem
Authors: Ebrahimi Mohsen , Asgari Mersad
Published: February 2021

This article deals with the problem of robust fractional-order fixed-structure controller design for commensurate and non-commensurate fractional-order interval systems using fractional Kharitonov theorem. The contribution of this study is to develop a simple control methodology to stabilize the fractional-order Kharitonov-defined vortex polynomials. Using the idea of robust stability testing function and extending it to the systems under study, the straightforward graphical and systematic procedures are proposed to investigate the robust stability of the system by searching for a non-conservative fractional-order Kharitonov region in the controller parameters plane. This region can establish all the fractional-order controllers that make the uncertain fractional-order systems stable. The relation between the fractional-order Kharitonov region and the parameters of the stabilizing controller is also found. Finally, comparison results with three relevant works are given to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed method.
Development of a dual-stage and visual-servo filming robot
Authors: Liu Liang-Chien , Yang Ping-Han , Liao Shih-Chi , Li Bing-Peng , Wang Fu-Cheng , Lin Pei-Chun
Published: February 2021

This article presents the development of a visual-servo filming robot for dolly & truck style camera movement in filming applications. The robot was implemented with a fast-response slider as the upper stage on top of the slow-response tracked robot body as the lower stage, to improve target tracking performance. A new switching controller was developed, which controlled the stages’ motions by balancing and adjusting the weights of vision error and slider’s noncentering error of the upper stage, thus achieving tracking performance better than the traditional master–slave control strategy. The simulations were carried out to evaluate the tracking performance of the model, particularly focusing on evaluating how the dual stage improves the overall response of the model. The similar evaluation was executed experimentally as well. Both results confirm that the fast-response characteristics of the upper stage can compensate the slow dynamics of lower stage, the tracked robot which is inevitably heavy due to its composition.
Ancient to recent-past runoff harvesting agriculture in the hyper-arid Arava Valley: OSL dating and insights
Authors: Stavi Ilan , Ragolsky Gidon , Haiman Mordechai , Porat Naomi
Published: February 2021

Runoff harvesting agriculture was prevalent in ancient times across the southern Levant. In modern Israel, remnants of this agricultural adaptation strategy are widespread mostly in the semi-arid and arid Negev. Extensive literature has thoroughly described the farming systems of this region. However, runoff agriculture in the dryer, hyper-arid regions of the Arava Valley and southern Negev (excluding the Uvda Valley), has scarcely been researched. A recent study revealed remnants of simple stone terraces in several wadis (ephemeral stream channels) throughout the central Arava Valley that have not yet been dated. The objective of this study was to use the Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) method to date sediments trapped in the stone terraces. The results revealed dominance of terraces dated to the Ottoman period (1516–1917 CE). Few samples were dated to the earlier Late Islamic period (1099–1516 CE) or Byzantine period (324–638 CE), and to the later, modern period of the mid-20th century. Generally, these periods coincide with relatively moister regional climatic conditions, which prevailed in the 4th, 11th–12th, and late 19th centuries CE. Yet, our findings also concur with periods of effective governance by central administrations. Therefore, results of this study fit the concept that runoff agriculture practiced in peripheral areas in ancient to recent-past times was co-determined by climatic settings and geo-political conditions, which enabled human inhabitation in these regions.
Thrombopoietin Promotes Cell Proliferation and Attenuates Apoptosis of Aplastic Anemia Serum-Treated 32D Cells via Activating STAT3/STAT5 Signaling Pathway and Modulating Apoptosis-Related Mediators
Authors: Qian Juan , Cao Xin , Shen Qian , Cai Yi-feng , Lu Wei , Yin Hong , You Xue-fen , Liu Hong
Published: February 2021

The present study aimed to investigate the effect and possible mechanism of recombinant human thrombopoietin (rhTPO) on mouse 32D cells (a mouse myeloid progenitor cell line) treated with serum from patients with aplastic anemia and to elucidate the potential mechanism of rhTPO in the treatment of aplastic anemia. After treatment with aplastic anemia serum, the apoptotic rate of 32D cells was increased and the proliferation of 32D cells was significantly inhibited. rhTPO reduced the apoptotic rate and promoted the proliferation of 32D cells, while rhTPO failed to restore the cell proliferation of 32D cells from aplastic anemia serum group to the normal level as compared to that from the normal serum group. The phosphorylation level of STAT3 protein was higher, and the phosphorylation level of STAT5 protein was lower in 32D cells from aplastic anemia serum group than that in normal serum group. After rhTPO treatment, the phosphorylation level of STAT3 protein in aplastic anemia serum group was decreased and the phosphorylation level of STAT5 protein was increased. The expression levels of Survivin and Bcl-2 were significantly decreased in 32D cells from aplastic anemia serum group, which were significantly increased after rhTPO treatment. The expression level of Bax protein in 32D cells from the normal serum group after rhTPO treatment was significantly decreased; while the mRNA expression level of Bax was not affected by rhTPO. The expression levels of Bax mRNA and protein were significantly up-regulated in 32D cells from aplastic anemia serum group, which was significantly decreased by rhTPO treatment. In conclusion, our results indicated that aplastic anemia serum impaired proliferative potential and enhanced apoptosis of 32D cells. Further mechanistic studies revealed that rhTPO promoted cell proliferation and attenuated apoptosis of aplastic anemia serum-treated 32D cells via activating STAT3/STAT5 signaling pathway and modulating apoptosis-related mediators.
Intraoral acupuncture treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea with snoring: a case series
Authors: Ko Jungeun , Baik Jungeui , Lee Suji , Lee Sanghoon
Published: February 2021

Objectives:

To investigate the effects of acupuncture of the intraoral, head and neck regions in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).

Methods:

Four patients diagnosed with OSA were treated with local acupuncture, including intraoral needling, to stimulate the upper airway dilator muscle. Clinical improvements were evaluated with the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI), obstructive apnoea-hypopnoea index (oAHI), snoring, and oxygen desaturation index (ODI) using a portable sleep monitoring device.

Results:

After 10 treatment sessions, all patients showed improvement in the AHI and oAHI, and most of the patients showed decreased ODI and snoring.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that acupuncture of the intraoral and head regions may be effective at improving the symptoms of OSA. Acupuncture treatment for OSA should be further investigated.
Career Development of Young Adult North Korean Defectors in South Korea
Authors: Park Hyewon
Published: February 2021

Young adult North Korean defectors (hereafter, North Korean millennials [NKMs]) are a growing and distinctive group. Even though they constitute the majority of defectors and show different characteristics from previous generations, relatively little attention has been paid to NKMs in both academic and practical areas. Specifically, little is known about how NKMs develop their career paths in South Korea. This study examines the process of NKMs’ career development activities, focusing on their challenges, structural tensions (contradictions) within the activities, and their learning from the process of resolving difficulties under the lens of cultural–historical activity theory (CHAT). This ethnographic study not only broadens understandings about NKMs but also elucidates their career development situation in South Korea. The findings of this study provide meaningful and practical suggestions to create a road map of career development for NKMs and implications for career development of migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons.