bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Señalización no diferencial de distintas probabilidades de entrega de agua en dos subciclos de un programa definido temporalmente
Authors: Ribes-Iñesta Emilio ,   Universidad de Guadalajara, Torres Carlos , Mayoral Alfredo ,   Universidad de Guadalajara,   Universidad de Guadalajara
Published: July 2024

Se realizó un experimento para evaluar los efectos de correlacionar un estímulo con cualquiera de los dos subciclos de un programa definido temporalmente (utilizando varias probabilidades de suministro de agua). Se empleó un programa temporal de 60 segundos, siendo tD y t5 de 30 segundos de duración. La probabilidad de suministro de agua en tD varió de 1,0 a 0,75, 0,5 y 1,0 a lo largo de las fases, mientras que la probabilidad de suministro de agua en t varió de 0,0 a 0,25, 0,5 y 0,0 a lo largo de las fases. Cada una de las tres primeras fases experimentales fue seguida por cinco sesiones de prueba no contingentes utilizando los mismos valores de probabilidad. En un grupo de ratas, tD se correlacionó con una luz verde, mientras que en otro grupo t5 se correlacionó con una luz blanca. Todas las ratas mostraron una tendencia creciente en la respuesta a lo largo de las fases, observándose la frecuencia de respuesta más alta cuando ambas probabilidades eran iguales a 0,5. Las ratas a las que se les indicó el subciclo t5 mostraron una frecuencia de respuesta más alta en t5 que en tD. El porcentaje de entregas de agua disminuyó a lo largo de las sesiones en todas las ratas. Los resultados se discuten en términos de la discriminabilidad de probabilidades en cada subciclo y del número de entregas de agua obtenidas en los ciclos iniciales de cada sesión.
Mudamos, em terapia verbal, o controle de estímulos?
Authors: Meyer Sonia Beatriz ,   Universidade de São Paulo
Published: July 2024

A análise funcional, que é feita no decurso da terapia comportamental, procura identificar uma ou mais classes de respostas que estâo trazendo problemas para o cliente, seus antecedentes e seus consequentes. Pode-se portanto, enfocar o trabalho terapĕutico na mudança do próprio comportamento, na mudança de seus antecedentes, ou na de seus consequentes. Neste artigo, a mudança dos antecedentes do comportamento foi analisada. É possivel alterar uma contingĕncia, que ocorre fora da sessâo terapĕutica, dentro do consultório? Podemos afirmar que as propriedades de um estímulo antecedente mudam numa situaçâo terapĕutica? Trata-se de um processo verbal. A mudança nos antecedentes do comportamento, em terapia, ocorre quando identificamos a existĕncia de uma propriedade do estímulo discriminativo que controla uma resposta ou ciasse de respostas, e, verbalmente, tornamos mais salientes outras propriedades do mesmo estimulo, que, por sua vez, controlam outras respostas que já existem no repertorio do cliente. O conceito de "estimulaçâo suplementar' apresentado por Skinner em seu Iivro "Comportamento Verbal" (1957) é usado para explicar esta funçâo da Terapia Comportamental. Foram analisados exemplos de intervençōes terapĕuticas encontradas na literatura e um exemplo de intervençáo terapĕutica feita pela autora.
Efeitos de mudanças em contingências de reforço sobre o comportamento verbal e o não verbal
Authors: Paiva Paracampo Carla Cristina ,   Universidade Federal do Pará, das Gracas de Souza Deisy , Matos Maria Amelia , de Albuquerque Luiz Carlos ,   Universidade Federal de São Carlos,   Universidade de São Paulo,   Universidade Federal do Pará
Published: July 2024

Este estudo investigou os efeitos, sobre o comportamento verbal e o não-verbal, de mudanças em contingênciasde reforço aplicadas a umdesempenho não-verbalsob controlecontextuaI. As contingências poderiam ser descritas ou não pelo experimentador (instruções), dependendo da condição experimental. O comportamento verbal dos participantes (descrições de seu desempenho) era registrado em cada condição experimental, antes e após mudanças nas condições de reforçamento. Vinte crianças entre sete e oito anos de idade foram expostas a um procedimento de controle contextuai de matching e oddity. O experimento consistia de três fases; as contingências na Fase 1 eram revertidas na Fase 2 e restabelecidas na Fase 3. Os participantes foram divididos em três grupos de acordo com as instruções apresentadas na Fase 1: na Condição Reforço Diferencial (RD), recebiam instruções mínimas sobre como proceder; na Condição Instrução (CI), recebiam instruções correspondentes às contingências; e na Condição Múltiplas Instruções (MI), recebiam três conjuntos de instruções, de acordo comtrês mudanças no controle contextuai das contingências em vigor. Para os grupos RD e CI, na Fase I, a luz verde sinalizava a contingência de matching, a luz vermelha sinalizava oddity. Para o gmpoMI as contingências de matching coddíty foram sinalizadas, respectivamente, nos três passos. por verde e amarelo, amarelo e vermelho, e verde e vermelho (e apenas esta última combinação foi empregada nas Fases 2 e 3). Transições de umafasepara outranão eramnem sinalizadasneminstruídas. Emcada faseos participantes eram indagados sobre o que deveriam fazer para ganhar pontos; as respostas verbais nunca eram reforçadas. Os resultados mostraram que para todos os grupos o comportamento verbal (auto-descrições) sempre correspondeu ao comportamento não-verbal (desempenho nas discriminações condicionais). Contudo, a sensibilidade do comportamento não-verbal às contingências de reforço variou. O Grupo RD ficou sob controle dascontingências enquanto os Grupos Cl e:MI ficaram sob controle dasinstruções do experimentador.
Los conceptos cognoscitivos y el problema de la observabilidad
Authors: Ribes Iñesta Emilio ,   Universidad de Guadalajara
Published: July 2024

Se argumenta que todos los términos que describen actos, procesos o productos del conocimiento tienen como único referente el comportamiento de uno o varios individuos interactuando con otros individuos ti objetos naturales o convencionales. Sin embargo, los episodios de conocimiento descritos normalmente con términos tales como recordar, aprender, pensar, razonar, deducir y otros similares, no constituyen actividades específicas que puedan identificarse de manera ostensiva. Los conceptos que describen episodios cognoscitivos se aplican en realidad a la descripción de relaciones y no a ocurrencias o acontecimientos particulares. Por ello, aunque los actos y objetos individuales implicados en un episodio cognoscitivo son directamente observables, no se puede ni tiene sentido predicar la observabilidad o inobservabilidad del episodio cognoscitivo como tal, pues el episodio constituye una relación de ocurrencia y no una ocurrencia en sí misma. Se critica que las teorías cognoscitivas, al no distinguir entre categorías de ocurrencia y categorías disposicionales, han atribuido erróneamente el mismo criterio de observabilidad a los episodios descritos por los términos cognoscitivos que a las ocurrencias comprendidas en tales episodios.
Sobre el poder explicativo de los enunciados cognoscitivos
Authors: Burgos José E. ,   CEIC-Universidad de Guadalajara
Published: July 2024

Mi objetivo principal en el presente artículo es ofrecer un conjunto de reflexiones críticas acerca de lo que psicólogos cognoscitivos, conductistas radicales y filósofos de la ciencia han dicho acerca las explicaciones cognoscitivas. Mi punto de partida es la aplicación de tres modelos de la explicación, a saber, el modelo nomológico-deductivo, el modelo de la relevancia estadística. yel modelo de la inferencia a la mejor explicación. Según estos tres modelos. los enunciados cognoscitivos poseen poder explicativo en tanto en cuanto involucran términos teóricos que, supuestamente, son parcialmente interpretados, es decir, términos que se refieren a estados y procesos que no son directamente observables, pero que constituyen mecanismos subyacentes de la conducta. Sin embargo, un examen cuidadoso de los enunciados neurocientíficos nos obligan a reconsiderar el poder explicativo de los enunciados cognoscitivos. Mi argumento central al respecto es que aun cuando las explicaciones que involucran enunciado:'> cognoscitivos son epistémicamente legítimas bajo los tres modelos examinados, éstos también permiten considerarlas corno epistémicamente menos satisfactorias que aquellas que involucran enunciados neurocientíficos.
The Ways of Improving the Activities of Transport and Forwarding Enterprises in the Context of the Development of Information Technologies
Authors: Valiavska Natalya O. ,   State University of Infrastructure and Technologies, Korniiko Yana R. , Filin Oleksandr A. ,   State University of Infrastructure and Technologies,   State University of Infrastructure and Technologies
Published: July 2024

The aim of the article is to highlight possible ways to improve the activities of transport and forwarding enterprises in the context of the development of information technology. In the course of the study, it was found that in the scientific sphere there is an active coverage of the introduction of information and innovative technologies in the field of transport and forwarding activities and it is emphasized that the dynamic and rapidly changing environment requires additional and constant updating in accordance with the latest trends. It is determined that the basis for the development of transport and forwarding activities is the growth of international trade and the expansion of the e-commerce industry around the world. The structure of export-import operations of Ukraine for 2023 is presented and it is noted that, in accordance with the current legislation of Ukraine, forwarding services are provided to the client for export, import, transit, as well as for domestic transportation through the territory of Ukraine. The services that can be provided by transport and forwarding enterprises are directly allocated, and the specifics of their activities are described. International organizations (UNCTАD, FIATA) are presented, which were among the first in the market to focus on the importance of introducing information technology in order to create a single international data exchange system for all participants in the transport and logistics market. The advantages of creating a single information space and digitalization of business processes of transport and forwarding enterprises are indicated. The latest trends in the international freight transportation market, which have simplified the procedures for issuing transport and accompanying documents due to their digitalization, are highlighted. The directions of use of blockchain technologies in the field of management of transport and forwarding enterprises are considered. It is determined that today not all enterprises are ready for the introduction of modern information technologies, which is caused by the outdated management culture, technological barriers, etc.
Liquidity and Profitability of Listed Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria
Authors: Adam Usman Muhammad , Ayagi Sunusi Ridwan
Published: July 2024

Given the present global economic challenges, deposit money bank plays a vital role in economic development. This study examined the relationship between liquidity on profitability of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria, with a target population of 13 quoted deposit money banks in Nigeria as at 31st December 2022. judgmental sample has been used to arrive at 9 sample size. The study covered a period of 10 years from 2013 to 2022.the study applied Stata V14.2 and the estimation techniques are OLS ordinary least square and diagnostic test (multi-collinearity and heteroscedasticity test), the data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression and correlation co-efficient. The study adopts return on asset, return on equity as dependent variable for profitability and current asset, cash ratio and free cash flow as the independent variables for liquidity with leverage and company size as the control variables. The study concludes that, there is significant relationship between liquidity on profitability of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria, the study recommends management of DMBs to employs appropriate policy and measure that will make DMBs to be self-liquidate and solely not depend on maximization of profit but also management of effective liquidity level.
Block Chain Technology and the New Wave of Accounting Practices
Authors: Ogbaisi Sebastine Abhus , Edosa Monday , Ibadin Lawrence Ayemere
Published: July 2024

Block chain offers a new and secure way to process and store financial and non-financial information that is easily accessible to users. This paper utilizes a conceptual approach in examining the link between block chain technology and the new wave of accounting practices. With the growing interconnectedness of business transactions, development of block chain technology, has no doubt redefined accounting practices, setting and reforming new standards from the conventional norms. The use of block chain technology has altered the accounting and auditing space in the global architecture, bringing into fore, new patterns, innovations and developments in the field of accounting. Invariably, accounting practices would need to accommodate and embrace this digital money evolvement in its conventional standards in order to meet up with the ever increasing, demanding, evolving and competitive global accounting architecture. The study concludes that there is a consensus on the need to review and redirect the orientation of traditional accounting practices by adopting, accommodating, integrating and harmonizing block chain technology and its by-products, cryptocurrencies into current development in accounting practices and reports. Furthermore, the prospect of accounting practice has become broadened, defining and integrating new limits with block chain technology. This, without doubt, is creating a more harmonized accounting practice in the global professional space.
THE PERFORMANCE OF SEVEN ELITE MAIZE ACCESSIONS FROM DIFFERENT AFRICAN ORIGINS UNDER RAIN-FED CONDITIONS IN SOUTH-EASTERN NIGERIA
Authors: EFRETUEI A.O. , UDOH L.I. , EKWERE O.J.
Published: July 2024

Maize is an important cereal crop, and millions of Africans rely on it as a major source of carbohydrates in their diet.  Grain yield from local maize varieties is generally low. Evaluation of different maize genotypes within a specific region is one way to identify and introduce varieties with high yield potential. This study assessed the yield and agronomic traits of 6 exotic maize accessions and a local variety to compare the performance of the exotic accessions with the local variety. The experiment was laid out as a randomized complete block design with four replications. The treatments included six exotic maize accessions, TZM386, TZM85, TZM16, TZM109, TZM392, and TZM1330, and a local variety ‘Uwep’ the result indicated that there were no significant differences in plant height and plant population at anthesis.  Grain yiel among all accessions was not greater than 0.5 t/ha in 2020 but ranged between 1-3 t/ha in 2021.  There were no significant differences in grain yield and components between the exotic and local accessions in 2021. In 2020, TZM 386 outperformed the local variety (uwep) in grain yield, ear weight, and number of ears/ha. Multiple linear regression showed a high dependence of grain yield on the growth parameter-plant height and the yield component ear no/ha in 2020 and 2021. This study has revealed differences in yield traits between the local and exotic accessions. The maize accession TZM 386 showed potential for higher grain yield and yield components and appears to be a promising candidate for further research.
Breast Cancer Classification Through CT Scan Using Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)
Authors: Loi Anita , Panjaitan Ruth N , Siregar Saut Dohot , Simarmata Allwin M
Published: July 2024

A common disease suffered by Indonesian women is breast cancer. Early awareness of breast cancer is very important to minimize the negative impact and increase the chances of recovery for breast cancer patients. Breast cancer detection efforts using CT scan image technology. CT scan images provide a detailed picture of the internal structure of the breast, allowing the identification of pathological changes that may be early signs of breast cancer. The purpose of the study is to utilize CNN algorithm for breast cancer classification using CT scan images. The dataset used consists of three labels namely benign cancer, malignant cancer, normal. The three data sets consist of 1096 data. CNN is a type of algorithm in the field of artificial intelligence that has proven successful in pattern recognition on image data. The collected breast CT scan image dataset includes breast cancer and non-breast cancer cases. The data is used to train and test the CNN model. Furthermore, breast cancer classification through CT scans is carried out by applying the CNN method. The results of the research conducted obtained an accuracy of 97.26%. In Benign classification with precision 0.99 (99%), recall 0.96 (96%), f1-score 0.98 (98%), support 186, then Malignant classification with precision 93% or with points 0.93, recall 98% with points 0.98, and f1-score 96% with points 0.96, and support 202. The last is the normal classification with 99% precision with 0.99 points, 97% recall with 0.97 points, 98% f1-score with 0.93 points, and 269 support.
Mapping Translation & Interpretation Courses Using Student Digital Portfolio Development
Authors: Ruiz Blanco Angel
Published: July 2024

Faculty are consistently challenged by the ongoing task of establishing a chronological and coherent order to course content that students can follow without confusion while ensuring thorough coverage of learning outcomes. This article advocates for the innovative use of websites as digital tools to streamline student navigation through course material. By immersing students in fundamental translation and interpretation methodologies, these online platforms transform into dynamic workspaces, fostering practical skills essential for future professional endeavors. Website creation acts as a bridge, seamlessly integrating academic teachings on principles, techniques, and processes of translation and interpretation with practical aspects of professional readiness. Through this integration, students gain invaluable insights into market dynamics, client acquisition strategies, pricing methodologies, and ethical considerations crucial in the translation and interpretation industry. Several theoretical frameworks, including constructivism, experiential learning, social constructivism, and connectivism, support the use of website portfolio development as a teaching tool. By aligning website portfolio development with these frameworks, educators tap into the potential of digital tools to enrich student learning, increase engagement, and prepare them for the complexities of the modern world. Consequently, the utilization of websites as educational tools enhances student engagement and comprehension and promotes a strong foundation for success in the ever-evolving field of translation and interpretation. This article concludes with a sample website developed by a student to provide faculty with a framework that they can use to implement a website portfolio into their translation courses.
Market conditions and the role of the state in post-war economic recovery of Ukraine
Authors: Danylenko Anatolii ,   SO ", Venger Vitalii ,   Institute for Economics and Forecasting of the NAS of Ukraine",   SO "Institute for Economics and Forecasting of the NAS of Ukraine"
Published: July 2024

Introduction. The loss of consumers of Ukrainian products from the former Soviet Union harmed the economy, especially industry. Along with a significant decline in demand for its products, payments to the budget and receipt of foreign currency decreased. Privatization, especially in industry, and the development of the basics of market relations did not provide the necessary impetus for the economy. Insufficient state participation in the innovative renewal of fixed assets and in supporting demand for Ukrainian products also hindered growth. Problem Statement. The combination of market relations with state regulation of the economy, particularly for the development of Ukraine's industrial sector. Methods. The study employs methods of critical analysis, summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of market mechanisms in Ukraine, systematization, and integration. The purpose is to carry out a systematic analysis of the results of the activities of enterprises over a 30-year period of their development in the conditions of market economy in Ukraine, the assessment of the support of state management bodies in the process of ensuring the efficiency of domestic economic entities in general, the comparison of the Ukrainian approach to the independence of enterprises in market conditions with the provisions of J. M. Keynes’ theory regarding the role of the state in the formation of demand for their products. Methods. The study employs methods of critical analysis, summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of market mechanisms in Ukraine, systematization, and integration. Results. State assistance in the renewal of fixed assets and the transition to innovative production from 1991 to 2021 was insufficient. Following the industrial decline of 1991, recovery in Ukraine was slow as enterprises paid insufficient attention to the aging of their assets and their financial condition. Many industrial enterprises failed to take advantage of opportunities to modernize production and maintain profitability. This resulted in their losses, reduced budget payments, and the loss of global market segments The results of the analysis showed that the construction of the market economy in Ukraine did not follow Keynesian principles, which led to the aforementioned problems. Conclusions. It was the balanced involvement of the state in post-war economic restructuring that brought success to Germany, South Korea, and Vietnam. After the war, certain key enterprises in Ukraine may face a shortage of resources due to incurred losses. This problem can only be resolved with state involvement. The authors identified strategic industrial sectors whose development will accelerate structural and innovative transformations in the national economy, including metallurgy, mechanical engineering, and construction.
Measurement error and bias in real-world oncology endpoints when constructing external control arms
Authors: Ackerman Benjamin , Gan Ryan W. , Meyer Craig S. , Wang Jocelyn R. , Zhang Youyi , Hayden Jennifer , Mahoney Grace , Lund Jennifer L. , Weberpals Janick , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Roose James , Siddique Juned , Nadeem Omar , Giri Smith , Stürmer Til , Ailawadhi Sikander , Batavia Ashita S. , Sarsour Khaled
Published: July 2024

Introduction: While randomized controlled trials remain the reference standard for evaluating treatment efficacy, there is an increased interest in the use of external control arms (ECA), namely in oncology, using real-world data (RWD). Challenges related to measurement of real-world oncology endpoints, like progression-free survival (PFS), are one factor limiting the use and acceptance of ECAs as comparators to trial populations. Differences in how and when disease assessments occur in the real-world may introduce measurement error and limit the comparability of real-world PFS (rwPFS) to trial progression-free survival. While measurement error is a known challenge when conducting an externally-controlled trial with real-world data, there is limited literature describing key contributing factors, particularly in the context of multiple myeloma (MM).

Methods: We distinguish between biases attributed to how endpoints are derived or ascertained (misclassification bias) and when outcomes are observed or assessed (surveillance bias). We further describe how misclassification of progression events (i.e., false positives, false negatives) and irregular assessment frequencies in multiple myeloma RWD can contribute to these biases, respectively. We conduct a simulation study to illustrate how these biases may behave, both individually and together.

Results: We observe in simulation that certain types of measurement error may have more substantial impacts on comparability between mismeasured median PFS (mPFS) and true mPFS than others. For instance, when the observed progression events are misclassified as either false positives or false negatives, mismeasured mPFS may be biased towards earlier (mPFS bias = −6.4 months) or later times (mPFS bias = 13 months), respectively. However, when events are correctly classified but assessment frequencies are irregular, mismeasured mPFS is more similar to the true mPFS (mPFS bias = 0.67 months).

Discussion: When misclassified progression events and irregular assessment times occur simultaneously, they may generate bias that is greater than the sum of their parts. Improved understanding of endpoint measurement error and how resulting biases manifest in RWD is important to the robust construction of ECAs in oncology and beyond. Simulations that quantify the impact of measurement error can help when planning for ECA studies and can contextualize results in the presence of endpoint measurement differences.
Understanding the differences in the use of graphic tool and planning during graphic execution between individuals with autism and typically developing individuals
Authors: Verma Pragya , Singh Madhu , Lahiri Uttama
Published: July 2024

Individuals with autism (ASD) often face difficulty in executing graphic tasks. This can be related to how one uses a graphic tool (e.g., pen) and plans ahead the graphic execution. Use of graphic tool can be captured using attributes, e.g., pen-tip pressure, number of pen lifts, etc. One’s ability to plan a graphic execution can be quantified using the total duration of pen lifts (i.e., air time). Though pen-and-paper-based Trail Making Test-Part A (TMT-A) can estimate planning of graphic execution, yet it cannot capture other attributes, e.g., pen-tip pressure, pen lift, etc. This can be possible if TMT-A is administered on a pressure-sensitive tablet as seen from existing studies with typically developing (TD) individuals. However, quantification of such attributes using TMT-A administered on a pressure-sensitive tablet remains unexplored for individuals with ASD. In addition, such objective measures can help to understand variations in the use of graphic tool and ability to plan graphic execution even outside the TMT-A task, e.g., while drawing shapes which is important to the development of children’s graphic skills. Here, we conducted a study with 12 pairs of TD children and those with ASD who executed TMT-A (in Phase-I) and shape drawing (in Phase-II) on a pressure-sensitive tablet. Results of our study show differences in the use of graphic tool and planning ahead the graphic execution between two participant groups in both the Phases. Such insights can offer clinical inputs that can be helpful in designing individualized intervention paradigms for children facing difficulties in graphic execution.
Does the size of the neuroendocrine-carcinoma component determine the prognosis of gallbladder cancer?
Authors: Hu Ya-Fei , Wang Jun-Ke , Ma Wen-Jie , Hu Hai-Jie , Gu Han-Fei , Liu Fei , Lv Tian-Run , Yang Si-Qi , Dai Yu-Shi , Zou Rui-Qi , Jin Yan-Wen , Li Fu-Yu
Published: July 2024

Background

Gallbladder mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasm generally consists of a gallbladder neuroendocrine tumor and a non-neuroendocrine component. The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019 established a guideline requiring each component, both neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine, to account for a minimum of 30% of the tumor mass.

Methods

Patients after surgery resection and diagnosed at microscopy evaluation with pure gallbladder neuroendocrine carcinoma (GBNEC), gallbladder mixed adeno-neuroendocrine carcinoma (GBMANEC, GBNEC≥30%), and gallbladder carcinoma mixed with a small fraction of GBNEC (GBNEC <30%) between 2010 and 2022 at West China Hospital of Sichuan University were collated for the analyses. Demographic features, surgical variables, and tumor characteristics were evaluated for association with patients’ overall and recurrence-free survival (OS and RFS).

Results

The study included 26 GBNEC, 11 GBMANEC, 4 gallbladder squamous-cell carcinoma (GBSCC), and 7 gallbladder adenocarcinoma (GBADC) mixed with a small fraction of GBNEC. All patients had stage III or higher tumors (AJCC8th edition). The majority of included patients (79.17%) underwent curative surgical resection (R0), with only ten patients having tumoral resection margins. In the analysis comparing patients with GBNEC percentage (GBNEC≥30% vs. GBNEC<30%), the basic demographics and tumor characteristics of most patients were comparable. The prognosis of these patients was also comparable, with a median OS of 23.65 months versus 20.40 months (P=0.13) and a median RFS of 17.1 months versus 12.3 months (P=0.24). However, patients with GBADC or GBSCC mixed with GBNEC <30% had a statistically significant decreased OS and RFS (both P<0.0001)) compared with GBNEC and GBMANEC. Patients with GBNEC who exhibited advanced tumor stages and lymphovascular invasion had a higher risk of experiencing worse overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). However, a 30% GBNEC component was not identified as an independent risk factor.

Conclusion

Patients with GBNEC were frequently diagnosed at advanced stages and their prognosis is poor. The 30% percentage of the GBNEC component is not related to the patient’s survival.
Effect of bariatric surgery in the body burden of persistent and non-persistent pollutants: longitudinal study in a cohort of morbidly obese patients
Authors: Díaz-González B. Vanessa , Ramos-Luzardo Álvaro , Henríquez-Hernández Luis Alberto , Serra-Majem Lluis , Bautista-Castaño Inmaculada , Acosta-Dacal Andrea , Luzardo Octavio P. , Hernández-García Elisabeth , Cornejo-Torre Judith , Hernández-Hernández Juan Ramón , Fernández-Valerón Pilar
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Obesity is a pathological state that involves the dysregulation of different metabolic pathways and adipose tissue cells, constituting a risk factor for the development of other diseases. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment. The study of the behavior of pollutants in situations of extreme weight loss can provide biomonitoring information and tools to manage diseases of environmental etiology.

Aim

To determine the prevalence of serum persistent and non-persistent pollutants in obese patients subjected to bariatric surgery and analyze the impact of sociodemographic variables on these changes.

Methods

GC-MS/MS and UHPLC-MS/MS were utilized to determine the detection rates and concentrations of 353 compounds, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs), pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and rodenticide, in serum samples of 59 obese patients before and after undergoing bariatric surgery.

Results

Detection rates of p,p’-DDE, HCB, β-HCH, naphthalene, phenanthrene and PCB congeners 138, 153 and 180 significantly increased due to surgery-induced weight loss. Serum levels of p,p’-DDE, PCB-138, PCB-153 and PCB-180 also increased after surgery. Correlations between naphthalene levels, weight loss, variation of total lipids and time after surgery were found. Additionally, correlations were observed between concentrations of PCB-138 and weight loss, and between phenanthrene levels and reduction of total lipids. No statistically significant differences were observed for other groups of contaminants, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals included in the quantification methods.

Conclusions

Increment of POPs was observed after bariatric surgery. Serum concentrations of POPs after surgery were influenced by adiposity-related variables. Although biomonitoring studies show a decreasing tendency of exposure, rapid weight loss leads to an increase of circulating POPs. Further research on the interplay between adipose tissue, POPs and peripheral organs is required.
CD4+CCR5+ T cells and CCL3+ mast cells are increased in the skin of patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Mubariki Raeda , Samara Reem , Gimenez-Arnua Anna Maria , Maurer Marcus , Bejar Jacob , Toubi Elias , Vadasz Zahava
Published: July 2024

Background

The proximity of activated T cells and mast cells in the lesional skin of patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is held to contribute to the development of wheals and angioedema. In a previous study, we demonstrated that increased IL-17 expression in T cells and mast cells in skin lesions of patients with CSU is associated with T/mast cell proximity, but the mechanisms that drive T cell/mast cell co-localization remain unknown.

Objectives

To assess if chemokines expressed in lesional CSU skin contribute to T cell/mast cell proximity.

Patients and methods

Biopsies from lesional CSU skin were compared to biopsies from healthy skin for expression of CCR5 and its ligand CCL3 by CD4+ T cells and mast cells, respectively.

Results

Numbers of CCR5-positive CD4+ T cells in lesional CSU skin were significantly increased as compared to healthy normal skin (p < 0.0001). The number of mast cells expressing CCL3 (ligand for CCR5) in CSU skin was also increased (p < 0.0002) and significant association with T-cell close proximity (p < 0.0001) is noticed.

Conclusions

The close proximity of T cells and mast cells in the skin of severe CSU may be driven, at least in part by increased CCR5 and CCL3 expression. Therapies that target CCL3 interaction with CCR5 should be assessed for their effects in CSU.
Morphological and functional abnormalities of ophthalmic artery in patients with ophthalmic vascular accidents
Authors: Zhao Benqi , Ji Yicong , Xu Yangyang , Su Wei , Si Shancheng
Published: July 2024

Background

By observing and comparing the morphological and functional differences of the ophthalmic artery (OA) in patients with ocular vascular accidents (OVAs) due to iatrogenic embolism or non-iatrogenic occlusion, we propose a classification system based on the characteristics of OA on invasive digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

Methods

All patients undergoing ophthalmic arterial DSA within 1 week after the OVAs between January 2017 and December 2021 were enrolled and divided into different types, and the differences between iatrogenic embolism and non-iatrogenic occlusion categories were compared.

Results

A total of 27 eyes of 27 patients were included in this study. Based on the results of carotid/intracranial arterial DSA, the morphological and functional abnormalities of OA with OVAs can be divided into five types. The proportion of males (7.14%), ocular ischemic syndrome (OIS) (0.00%) and neovascular glaucoma (NVG) (0.00%) in the iatrogenic embolism category was significantly lower than that (84.62, 61.54, and 69.23%, respectively) of the non-iatrogenic occlusion category (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). However, the proportion of no light perception (NLP) (100%), anterior segment ischemia (ASI) (71.43%), and orbital involvement (ophthalmoplegia and ptosis, 42.86%) eventually occurring in the former was significantly greater than that in the latter (23.08, 0.00, 0.00%, respectively) (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.010, respectively).

Conclusion

Ocular vascular accidents can be divided into five types based on the characteristics of OA on DSA.
Grouting technique—combining transvenous Onyx and coils for the embolization of complex non-cavernous intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas
Authors: Chen Ching-Chang , Chen Chun-Ting , Wu Yi-Ming , Yeap Mun-Chun , Chen Yao-Liang , Wong Ho-Fai
Published: July 2024

Objective

Incomplete occlusion of cerebral dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) may lead to fistula recurrence and rebleeding, which may necessitate several embolizations and lead to worse clinical outcomes. Herein, we describe a grouting technique for endovascular embolization and its outcomes in a series of patients with complex intracranial DAVF.

Methods

A total of 20 patients with aggressive type or symptomatic intracranial non-cavernous DAVF underwent endovascular transvenous embolization combining detachable coils and Onyx. Two microcatheters were positioned either in the distal segment of the involved sinus or near the draining veins. To achieve tight occlusion of the involved sinus, coils were carefully delivered through the first microcatheter, starting from the distal segment and then to the proximal segment. Next, Onyx was injected through the second microcatheter to reinforce and fill (grout) the interspace of coil mass and gradually refluxed to the mural channels and para-sinus cortical veins until the fistula was completely occluded.

Results

Successful embolization was achieved in all 20 patients. The initial angiographic results revealed the achievement of complete occlusion in 19 patients (95%). At the postembolization follow-up, complete obliteration of the fistula was achieved in all patients (100%). No symptom or angiographic recurrence was observed at the 2- to 5-year follow-ups. No patient required additional embolization or stereotactic radiosurgery.

Conclusion

The proposed grouting technique combining detachable coils and Onyx appears to be promising for the elimination of complex intracranial non-cavernous DAVFs.
Neuroimaging article reexecution and reproduction assessment system
Authors: Ioanas Horea-Ioan , Macdonald Austin , Halchenko Yaroslav O.
Published: July 2024

The value of research articles is increasingly contingent on complex data analysis results which substantiate their claims. Compared to data production, data analysis more readily lends itself to a higher standard of transparency and repeated operator-independent execution. This higher standard can be approached via fully reexecutable research outputs, which contain the entire instruction set for automatic end-to-end generation of an entire article from the earliest feasible provenance point. In this study, we make use of a peer-reviewed neuroimaging article which provides complete but fragile reexecution instructions, as a starting point to draft a new reexecution system which is both robust and portable. We render this system modular as a core design aspect, so that reexecutable article code, data, and environment specifications could potentially be substituted or adapted. In conjunction with this system, which forms the demonstrative product of this study, we detail the core challenges with full article reexecution and specify a number of best practices which permitted us to mitigate them. We further show how the capabilities of our system can subsequently be used to provide reproducibility assessments, both via simple statistical metrics and by visually highlighting divergent elements for human inspection. We argue that fully reexecutable articles are thus a feasible best practice, which can greatly enhance the understanding of data analysis variability and the trust in results. Lastly, we comment at length on the outlook for reexecutable research outputs and encourage re-use and derivation of the system produced herein.
A blood-free modeling approach for the quantification of the blood-to-brain tracer exchange in TSPO PET imaging
Authors: Maccioni Lucia , Michelle Carranza Mellana , Brusaferri Ludovica , Silvestri Erica , Bertoldo Alessandra , Schubert Julia J. , Nettis Maria A. , Mondelli Valeria , Howes Oliver , Turkheimer Federico E. , Bottlaender Michel , Bodini Benedetta , Stankoff Bruno , Loggia Marco L. , Veronese Mattia
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Recent evidence suggests the blood-to-brain influx rate (K1) in TSPO PET imaging as a promising biomarker of blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability alterations commonly associated with peripheral inflammation and heightened immune activity in the brain. However, standard compartmental modeling quantification is limited by the requirement of invasive and laborious procedures for extracting an arterial blood input function. In this study, we validate a simplified blood-free methodologic framework for K1 estimation by fitting the early phase tracer dynamics using a single irreversible compartment model and an image-derived input function (1T1K-IDIF).

Methods

The method is tested on a multi-site dataset containing 177 PET studies from two TSPO tracers ([11C]PBR28 and [18F]DPA714). Firstly, 1T1K-IDIF K1 estimates were compared in terms of both bias and correlation with standard kinetic methodology. Then, the method was tested on an independent sample of [11C]PBR28 scans before and after inflammatory interferon-α challenge, and on test–retest dataset of [18F]DPA714 scans.

Results

Comparison with standard kinetic methodology showed good-to-excellent intra-subject correlation for regional 1T1K-IDIF-K1 (ρintra = 0.93 ± 0.08), although the bias was variable depending on IDIF ability to approximate blood input functions (0.03–0.39 mL/cm3/min). 1T1K-IDIF-K1 unveiled a significant reduction of BBB permeability after inflammatory interferon-α challenge, replicating results from standard quantification. High intra-subject correlation (ρ = 0.97 ± 0.01) was reported between K1 estimates of test and retest scans.

Discussion

This evidence supports 1T1K-IDIF as blood-free alternative to assess TSPO tracers’ unidirectional blood brain clearance. K1 investigation could complement more traditional measures in TSPO studies, and even allow further mechanistic insight in the interpretation of TSPO signal.
Familial occurrence of imperforate hymen in premature monozygotic twins and their mother: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chua Bernadine Han Ern , Amin Zubair , Ng Yvonne Peng Mei
Published: July 2024

Background

Imperforate hymen is an uncommon obstructive anomaly of the developing female reproductive tract. There are occasional case reports of imperforate hymen occurring in family clusters, suggesting a plausible familial mode of inheritance. We describe a set of monozygotic premature twins with imperforate hymen noted at birth, whose mother was diagnosed with the same condition as a teenager. We also elucidate the likely underlying mode of inheritance of imperforate hymen.

Method

We utilized the CARE (Case Report) guideline in reporting the cases.

Case presentation

These are monozygotic twins born prematurely at 30 weeks of gestation, noted at birth to have bulging cyst-like structures protruding from their vaginas. The twins were not dysmorphic and did not have any other congenital malformations. Over the next few weeks, these cyst-like structures (mucoceles) became less prominent. The genital anomaly was diagnosed as imperforate hymen. Their mother was also diagnosed with an imperforate hymen when she was 12 years old and was treated with hymenectomy.

Discussion

This unique occurrence of imperforate hymen in a set of premature monozygotic twins and their mother suggests a plausible autosomal or X-linked dominant mode of inheritance. Given the role of genetic inheritance in imperforate hymen development, it is important to screen female relatives of an index case for this genital anomaly.
Association between heavy metals exposure and persistent infections: the mediating role of immune function
Authors: Zhang Huiling , Wang Juan , Zhang Kunlun , Shi Jianyang , Gao Yameng , Zheng Jingying , He Jingtong , Zhang Jing , Song Yang , Zhang Ruifei , Shi Xuening , Jin Lina , Li Hui
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Persistent infections caused by certain viruses and parasites have been associated with multiple diseases and substantial mortality. Heavy metals are ubiquitous environmental pollutants with immunosuppressive properties. This study aimed to determine whether heavy metals exposure suppress the immune system, thereby increasing the susceptibility to persistent infections.

Methods

Using data from NHANES 1999–2016, we explored the associations between heavy metals exposure and persistent infections: Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Herpes Simplex Virus Type–1 (HSV–1), Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), and Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati (Toxocara spp.) by performing logistic regression, weighted quantile sum (WQS) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models. Mediation analysis was used to determine the mediating role of host immune function in these associations.

Results

Logistic regression analysis revealed positive associations between multiple heavy metals and the increased risk of persistent infections. In WQS models, the heavy metals mixture was associated with increased risks of several persistent infections: CMV (OR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.17, 2.14), HCV (OR: 2.94; 95% CI: 1.68, 5.16), HSV–1 (OR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.42), T. gondii (OR: 1.97; 95% CI: 1.41, 2.76), and Toxocara spp. (OR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.16, 2.66). BKMR models further confirmed the combined effects of heavy metals mixture and also identified the individual effect of arsenic, cadmium, and lead. On mediation analysis, the systemic immune inflammation index, which reflects the host’s immune status, mediated 12.14% of the association of mixed heavy metals exposure with HSV–1 infection.

Discussion

The findings of this study revealed that heavy metals exposure may increase susceptibility to persistent infections, with the host’s immune status potentially mediating this relationship. Reducing exposure to heavy metals may have preventive implications for persistent infections, and further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Adaptive Sliding-Mode Controller for a Zeta Converter to Provide High-Frequency Transients in Battery Applications
Authors: Tobón Andrés , Ramos-Paja Carlos Andrés , Orozco-Gutíerrez Martha Lucía , Saavedra-Montes Andrés Julián , Serna-Garcés Sergio Ignacio
Published: July 2024

Hybrid energy storage systems significantly impact the renewable energy sector due to their role in enhancing grid stability and managing its variability. However, implementing these systems requires advanced control strategies to ensure correct operation. This paper presents an algorithm for designing the power and control stages of a hybrid energy storage system formed by a battery, a supercapacitor, and a bidirectional Zeta converter. The control stage involves an adaptive sliding-mode controller co-designed with the power circuit parameters. The design algorithm ensures battery protection against high-frequency transients that reduce lifespan, and provides compatibility with low-cost microcontrollers. Moreover, the continuous output current of the Zeta converter does not introduce current harmonics to the battery, the microgrid, or the load. The proposed solution is validated through an application example using PSIM electrical simulation software (version 2024.0), demonstrating superior performance in comparison with a classical cascade PI structure.