bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Dosimetric Study of Intensity-modulated Radiotherapy and Volumetric-modulated Arc Therapy Techniques with Hypofractionated Intensity-modulated Radiotherapy after Modified Radical Mastectomy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Lin Hongxiao , Sheng Xuren , Liu Haowu , Zhang Peng , Yin Li , Xu Chengsheng , Ke Xue , Ni Jin , Liu Ke , Yin Yachao , Jiang Xiaoxia , Zhang Yufei , Dai Ying , Liu Yunqin , Zang Chunbao
Published: August 2022

Background
This study aimed to compare the advantages and disadvantages of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT), in left-sided breast cancer patients who underwent hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiotherapy after a modified radical mastectomy.
Methods
For the study, 20 patients with left-sided breast cancer who required adjuvant radiotherapy after a modified radical mastectomy were selected randomly. The specified dose of 43.5Gy/15f was adopted to plan for the IMRT and the VMAT. Dose volume histograms (DVH) were employed to evaluate the dose distribution of planning target volumes and organs at risk in both plans.
Results
The homogeneous index (HI) and conformity index (CI) of the VMAT group were found to be better than those of the IMRT group (P < 0.05). VMAT showed better and more uniform dose distribution in the planning target volumes as well as a lower monitor unit (MU).No significant difference was found in V5 of the affected lung and heart between the two groups (P > 0.05). V10, V20, V30, and Dmean of the affected lung and whole heart V10, V20, V30, V40, Dmean, and Dmax of the VMAT group were better than those of the IMRT group (P < 0.05). Dmean and Dmax of the left anterior descending (LAD) of the heart in the VMAT group were better than those in the IMRT group (P < 0.05), and the VMAT program was effective in reducing cardiopulmonary dose. A significant advantage of V30 and Dmean was found in the VMAT group over the IMRT group (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Compared with the IMRT program, the VMAT program achieved a higher clinical value since it improved the dose distribution in the target area, reduced the cardiopulmonary dose, protected organs at risk (OAR) (e.g., the thyroid), and shortened the treatment time.
Mechanical activation with Easy Clean enhanced organic tissue removal from simulated internal root resorption.
Authors: MONTEIRO LAISE PENA BRAGA , de Sousa Sérgio Emilio Miranda , de Castro Roberta Fonseca , Silva Emmanuel João Nogueira Leal da , Brandão Juliana Melo da Silva
Published: August 2022

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) compared to mechanical activation with Easy Clean in the removal of organic tissue from simulated areas of internal root resorption.Methods: The root canals of 72 extracted single-rooted teeth with oval canals were instrumented with Reciproc R25 instruments. After root canal preparations, the specimens were split longitudinally, and semicircular cavities were prepared using a round bur on each half of the roots. Samples obtained from bovine muscle tissue were weighed and adapted into semicircular cavities. The roots were reassembled and joined, and the teeth were divided into six groups (n=12) according to the irrigation protocol: NaOCl without activation; NaOCl + PUI; NaOCl + Easy Clean; distilled water without activation; distilled water + PUI; and distilled water + Easy Clean. After irrigation protocols, the teeth were disassembled, and the remaining organic tissue was weighed. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test (p<0.05).Results: Tissue weight reduction was significantly affected by the activation method (p<0.05) and by irrigation solution (p>0.05). The use of Easy Clean resulted in the greatest tissue weight loss compared to those of PUI and no activation (p<0.05).Conclusions: Mechanical activation with Easy Clean enhanced organic tissue removal from simulated internal resorption more effectively than passive ultrasonic irrigation. Easy Clean for agitation of the irrigating solution is effective in removing simulated organic tissues from artificial internal resorption cavities, being an alternative to the use of passive ultrasonic irrigation
Clinical and bacteriological comparison of mouthwashes used in self-care during perioperative oral management: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Otagiri Hiroki , Kurita Hiroshi , Yamada Shin-ichi , Sakai Hironori , Tobata Haruko , Yanai Kota , Matsubara Kaya , Eguchi Toru
Published: August 2022

Background: Perioperative oral management reduces the risk of postoperative wound infection and pneumonia. Currently, we recommend gargling with povidone-iodine (PVP-I) to maintain the cleanliness of the oral cavity; however, the bactericidal capability of PVP-I may be reduced by dilution or saliva. Mouthwashes containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) that are used as oral hygiene products to prevent gingivitis are considered less susceptible to dilution and saliva than PVP-I. We conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the clinical and bacteriological effects of CPC mouthwash using PVP-I gargle as a control.Methods: Eighty-three patients who visited the Oral Care Center of Shinshu University Hospital prior to surgery with general anesthesia were included. Patients were assessed for clinical indices and underwent perioperative oral care (POC) comprising scaling and professional mechanical tooth cleaning before surgery. Patients were divided into two groups using CPC mouthwash (n = 42) or PVP-I gargle (n = 41) in addition to brushing. Buccal mucosa tongue and saliva samples were collected before and after POC, immediately before and after surgery, and one week after surgery. All samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Results: Reduction in dental plaque adhesion (Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified) and gingival bleeding (bleeding on probing), along with improved total bacterial counts were observed in both groups one week post-surgery. The microbial community composition significantly differed between the CPC and PVP-I groups. In the CPC group, Streptococcus was suppressed until one week post-surgery. In the PVP-I group, the genus Streptococcus increased again at one week post-surgery. Linear discriminant analysis effect size analysis showed that Haemophilus and Streptococcus was a characteristic genus of the CPC and PVP-I group, respectively, at one week post-surgery.Conclusion: Our study revealed differences in the effects of CPC mouthwash and PVP-I gargle on the microbial community structure. The CPC mouthwash may maintain the antibiotic effect for a longer period than PVP-I gargle. This result will support data for more detailed research in the future.Trial registration: University Hospitals Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR), UMIN000030919. Registered January 21, 2018.Funding: Sunstar Inc.
Preventing surgical site infection after cholecystitis by postoperative antibiotic: A randomized controlled trial study
Authors: Zabihi-Mahmoudabadi Hossein , Akbari Hamed , Abedi-kichi Raziyeh , Rahimpour Ehsan , Hajebi Reza , Tavakkoli Hassan
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Surgical site infection is one of the most common complications of surgical procedures and the best method for its risk reduction is prevention. The main purpose of this study is to assess the prophylactic role of postoperative antibiotics in reducing the incidence of surgical site infection.Methods: We conducted a prospective, randomized trial at Sina Hospital, Tehran, Iran from 2019 to 2021 to compare the postoperative incidence of surgical site infection and deep wound infection, in patients with mild or moderate cholecystitis who underwent elective cholecystectomy in patients receiving prophylactic antibiotics to those who did not receive antibiotics. Results: The postoperative antibiotics do not associated with a significant decrease in postoperative surgical site infection (P>0.05). Conclusion: Through this study, we demonstrated that postoperative antibiotics did not have a prophylactic role in the prevention of surgical site infection.
Physiotherapy intervention on changes in post-chemotherapy sensibility with taxanes
Authors: Rodrigues Maria Thais , Luz Roberta Pitta Costa , Alliz Carmen Sylvia Varella , Reis Thais Andreotti Gelsi , Rizzi Samantha Karlla Lopes de Almeida , Nazário Afonso Pinto , Elias Simone , Facina Gil
Published: August 2022

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the presence of changes in post-chemotherapy sensibility with Taxane and the efficiency of a physiotherapy intervention that aims at the improvement of this condition. METHODS: We conducted an uncontrolled, longitudinal quantitative and prospective study on 23 patients. Four were not included in the study for not showing changes in sensibility or having a skin condition that rendered the evaluation impossible. The patients responded to the McGill and FACT G-Taxane questionnaires after the sensibility evaluation with a Semmes-Weinstein esthesiometer, an intervention session using a Peridell® therapeutic massager and a subsequent sensibility revaluation. RESULTS: Two regions with the best responses to the intervention were the dermatomes L5 and S1, with initial means of 5.33 and 5.53 and final means of 5.64 and 5.78, respectively (p = 0.012 e 0.020). The general analysis for both superior and inferior limbs showed an increase in the means, with an initial mean of 5.69 and a final mean of 5.81 (p = <0.001). There was a negative correlation between FACT G-Taxane and the McGill Questionnaire (-0.738 e p = <0.001). CONCLUSION: Vibratory stimulus of Peridell® therapeutic massager showed a significant improvement of changes in sensibility on the region of the dermatomes L5 and S1, especially on milder changes. The correlation between FACT G-Taxane and the McGill questionnaire suggests that the more pain the patient feels, there is less life quality and there are more symptoms of toxicity.
IL-1β regulates TRPM2 channel in astrocytes and aggravates their apoptosis during lipopolysaccharide induced cognitive impairment in mice
Authors: Yang Yujiao , Jia Shuaiying , Wang Mingfei , Yun Debo
Published: August 2022

Background: Cognitive dysfunction after sepsis is the most serious complication after discharge of sepsis patients, and its pathogenesis is related to the inflammation of the central nervous system caused by the damaged blood-brain barrier. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is a key factor in sepsis-induced cognitive dysfunction in mice. Several investigations have suggested that TRPM2 (transient receptor potential melastatin-2) performs a vital task in immune response and inflammation. The aim of this exploration was to discover the importance of IL-1β in apoptosis in the hippocampal astrocytes of septic mice through in vitro and in vivo assessments. Methods: mouse severe inflammatory was established by intraperitoneal injection of high dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 mg kg–1), The Morris water maze task and fear conditioning test were used to investigate cognitive functions on the 7th day after LPS injection. Western blotting was implemented to detect the levels of IL-1β , TRPM2 and GFAP. Flow cytometry was employed to ascertain the effects of IL-1β and TRPM2-siRNA on the apoptosis of astrocytes. Immunofluorescent staining was used to examine the expression levels of GFAP and TRPM2 in hippocampus of mice .Results: Intraperitoneal injection of LPS caused cognitive dysfunction in mice, which can be reversed by down-regulation of IL-1β expression in the hippocampus. Elevated expression of IL-1β and TRPM2 were observed in hippocampus from the mouse after LPS injection. Specifc knockdown of IL-1β mRNA expression rescued the elevated expression of TRPM2. Accordingly, specifc knockdown of TRPM2 expression improved the cognitive impairment induced by Intraperitoneal injection of LPS.Conclusions: Elevated expression of IL-1β in the hippocampus may induce cognitive dysfunction by upregulation of TRPM2 in septic mice astrocytes.
Analysis of biofilm expansion rate on agar substrates with different stiffness under limited nutrition
Authors: Wu Jin , Li Xianyong , Kong Rui , Wang Jiankun , Wang Xiaoling
Published: August 2022

In this study, we explore the growth of Bacillus subtilis biofilm on substrates with different agar concentrations, and obtain the area, morphology information and fluorescence intensity of biofilms by using optical imaging technologies. We find that expansion rate variations of biofilms growing on substrates with high and low agar concentration (1.5wt%, 2.0wt%,2.5wt%) are not in the same phase. In the first three days’ growth, the interaction stress between biofilm and each agar substrate increases, which makes the biofilm expansion rate decreases before wrinkle pattern IV (branches) comes up. After three days, in the later growth stage after wrinkle pattern IV appears, the biofilm has larger expansion rate growing on 2.0wt% agar concentration, which has the larger wrinkle distance in wrinkle pattern IV reducing energy consumption. The above findings are further verified through images of the fluorescence intensity of matrix producing cells of each biofilm. Our study shows that the stiff substrate does not always inhibit the biofilm expansion, although it does in the earlier stage, after that, mature biofilms acquire larger expansion rate by adjusting the growth mode through the wrinkle evolution even in nutrient extremely depletion.
Analysis of intraocular amniotic membrane in vitreoretinal disease with complicated retinal detachment - case reports and in-vitro safety assessment.
Authors: Hillenmayer Anna , Wertheimer Christian M. , Gerhard Maximilian-Joachim , Priglinger Siegfried G. , Ohlmann Andreas , Wolf Armin
Published: August 2022

Purpose
Amniotic membrane (AM) is a popular treatment for ocular surface diseases due to its wound healing effects. First intraocular implantations showed good anatomical and functional results. Here, three cases of intravitreal AM transplantation and the morphological and functional outcome are described. The reaction to AM was examined by immunostaining and cellular reactions were investigated on retinal cells in-vitro.
Methods:
Three patients with epiretinal implanted AM during PPV for complicated retinal detachment are presented retrospectively. We investigated the AM-influence in-vitro on RPE cells (ARPE-19), Müller cells (Mio-M1), and retinoblasts (661W). An anti-histone DNA ELISA and live/dead assay for apoptosis, a BrdU ELISA for proliferation and a WST-1 assay for viability were performed. Following AM-removal, tissue-specific cellular responses were evaluated by light microscopy and immunohistochemical staining.
Results:
Despite severe vitreoretinal disease, good anatomical and functional outcomes were achieved in all three cases. Immunostaining of AM showed no immunological rejection. In-vitro, AM mediates no toxic or proliferating effect on RPE and Müller cells but a neuroprotective effect on differentiated retinoblasts.
Conclusion:
AM offers possible advantages treating severe vitreoretinal disease. The pathobiological mode of action was elucidated and we could not determine issues regarding rejection reactions and biocompatibility. Further studies are needed to assess clinical potential.
Appendicular anthropometric changes and poor ECOG performance status is associated with sarcopenia in individuals with Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Authors: Pereira Luciana M B , Ruas Hérika M S , Filho Walter F , Alves Wislene S M , Dias Gabrielle O , Durães Cristina P , Junior Renato S M , Santos Sérgio H S , Farias Lucyana C , Guimarães André L S , Haikal Desirée S , Cardoso Cláudio M , de Paula Alfredo M B
Published: August 2022

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent type of cancer with high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Sarcopenia, a progressive skeletal muscle wasting disorder, is very prevalent in individuals with cancer and is responsible for poor clinical outcomes. This study investigated the association between demographical, anthropometric, nutritional status, tumor clinical characteristics, physical performance, and C-reactive protein and albumin levels and sarcopenia in individuals with HNSCC (n = 125; male/female ratio: 3.8/1; age: 59.38 ± 10.72 years). Sarcopenia was defined as low muscle strength and low muscle performance. Anthropometrical measurements, nutritional status, performance status, tumor characteristics, and CRP and albumin levels were analyzed using binary logistic regression models. Sarcopenia in individuals with HNSCC was more likely to occur in Individuals that exhibited low MAC (OR = 0.73 IC95% = 0.57-0.93) and MAMC (OR = 11.93, IC95% = 1.76-80.52), and high UFA (OR = 1.22, IC95% = 1.06-1.42) anthropometrical parameters, and ECOG scores > 1 (OR = 4.76, IC95% = 1.55-14.62). Early identification of anthropometric changes in appendicular muscularity and adiposity and the diagnosis of poor performance status tends to favor a prompt identification of sarcopenia in individuals with HNSCC.
Colossal barocaloric effect exploiting amorphous high entropy in solidified polyethylene glycol
Authors: Hu Fengxia , Yu Zibing , Zhou Houbo , Liu Chang , Yuan Shuaikang , Wang Donghui , Hao Jiazheng , Gao Yihong , Wang Yangxin , Wang Bingjie , Tian Zhengying , Lin Yuan , Zhang Cheng , Yin Zhuo , Wang Jing , Chen Yunzhong , Li Yunliang , Sun Jirong , Zhao Tongyun , Shen Baogen
Published: August 2022

Barocaloric effect (BCE) has emerged as one of intense topics aiming at solid-state refrigeration featuring efficiency and cleanness. Materials with solid-liquid phase transition (SL-PT) usually show huge melting entropy but cannot work in full solid-state refrigeration. Here we report colossal barocaloric effect realized by exploiting high entropy inherited from huge disorder of liquid phase in amorphous polyethylene glycol (PEG), which is solidified through introducing 5wt.% polyethylene terephthalate (PET). TEM combined XRD demonstrate the amorphous nature of high-temperature phase after fixed by PET. Although the PEG loses the -OH end mobility in amorphous solid, high entropy still retains owing to retained high freedom of molecule chains. The remained entropy in amorphous PEG is up to 83% of liquid PEG in PEG10000/PET15000, and the barocaloric entropy change reaches ΔSp ∼ 416 J·kg− 1·K− 1 under a low pressure 0.1 GPa, which exceeds the performance of most other BCE materials. Infrared spectra combined with density function theory (DFT) calculations disclose conformational change from liquid to amorphous state, which explains the origin of huge entropy retained and hence colossal BCE in the solidified PEG. This research opens a new avenue for exploring full solid-state barocaloric materials by utilizing genetic high entropy from huge disordering of liquid phase in various materials with SL-PT.
Maternal body fat and infant body weight influence human milk intake by the infant: A causal inference approach
Authors: Hitzert Femke , Gemert Sacha La Bastide - van , Costa Teresa da , Eaton Simon , Fewtrell Mary , Vega Gilma Olaya , Wells Jonathan , Haisma Hinke
Published: August 2022

Background: Several scholars have found an association between maternal body composition and her breast milk output. But, in order to obtain the desired unconfounded effect estimates for this association, knowledge of the underlying causal relationships is necessary, taking into account all possible confounding background variables. Objective: To explore the causal relationships underlying the association between maternal body composition and breast milk output. Methods: Data for this study were obtained from a database in which milk intake data was pooled together (188 mother-infant pairs). All studies used the dose-to-the-mother deuterium-oxide turnover method for measuring breast milk transfer from mother to infant. Causal inference search algorithms were used to determine which causal graphs were compatible with the given data. Results: This exploratory study identified several confounders in the association between maternal body composition and breast milk output, like parity, smoking and education. When decomposing body mass index (BMI) into fat mass index (FMI) and fat free mass index (FFMI), we found that the effect of body composition on milk output is affected by maternal fat mass rather than the mothers’ lean mass. In addition, we found that infants with higher body weight consume more milk rather than the other way around. Conclusion: The use of causal inference techniques on milk intake data revealed that the effect of BMI on milk output is through maternal fat mass. Furthermore, our findings suggest that the infant exercises control over milk output through its body weight rather than that the mother's milk output drives infant growth.
Coil-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration of gastric varices by an inverted catheter tip technique via the pericardiophrenic vein
Authors: Asano Kazuo , Jogo Atsushi , Sakai Yukimasa , Yamamoto Akira , Yata Shinsaku , Kaminou Toshio , Okahashi Sami , Nakano Mariko , Nango Mineyoshi , Kageyama Ken , Sohgawa Etsuji , Miki Yukio
Published: August 2022

Background: Bleeding from gastric varices can be life-threatening. Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration is one of the treatments for gastric varices. The obliteration via other efferent veins than gastrorenal shunts has only rarely been reported. In such cases, it is sometimes difficult to insert the catheter close to the gastric varices because of the narrowness and tortuosity of the vein.Case presentation: A 70-year-old woman with liver cirrhosis was admitted to our hospital for treatment of growing gastric varices in the fundus. Computed tomography showed gastric varices continuously draining the pericardiophrenic vein via the inferior phrenic vein. Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration by a transjugular approach was planned. However, a conventional balloon catheter or micro balloon catheter could not be inserted into the efferent vein near the varices because of the narrowness and tortuosity of the vein. Hence, coil-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration was performed by an inverted catheter tip technique using a single conventional microcatheter. At 2 months after procedure, endoscopy showed shrinkage of the gastric varices.Conclusions: The inverted catheter tip technique might be useful for cases in which it is difficult to insert a balloon catheter into the efferent vein.
The impact of oocytes containing smooth endoplasmic reticulum aggregates on assisted reproductive outcomes: a cohort study
Authors: Fang Tingfeng , Yu Wenchang , Ou Songbang , Lu Jinyu , Li Ruiqi , Zhao Mingpeng , Chan Yiu Leung , Wang Wenjun
Published: August 2022

Background: The impact of SERa on ART outcomes was still controversial. Our objective is to investigate the impact of the presence of smooth endoplasmic reticulum aggregates (SERa) on ICSI outcomes. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. A total of 1,090 fresh ICSI cycles from 944 patients between January 2016 and June 2020 were included. Outcomes from clinical, embryological and neonatal aspects were compared between SERa+ and SERa- cycles as well as between SERa+ and SERa- oocytes. Results: The total gonadotropin (Gn) dose, number of oocytes retrieved, serum estradiol concentration and number of the available embryo were significantly higher in SERa+ cycles than in SERa- cycles (P<0.05). Comparable two pronuclei (2PN) fertilization rate and poly-pronucleus zygote rate were shown in SERa+ and SERa- cycles (P>0.05), but which were higher in SERa+ oocytes than in SERa- oocytes (P<0.05). No statistical difference in blastocyst formation rate was found in SERa+ and SERa- cycles as well as in SERa+ and SERa- oocytes (P>0.05). Good-quality embryo rate was statistically higher in SERa- cycles than in SERa+ cycles (P<0.05), but the difference was comparable between SERa+ and SERa- oocytes (P>0.05). No statistical difference in pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, spontaneous abortion rate, live birth rate and premature delivery rate were found in SERa+ and SERa- cycles as well as in SERa+ and SERa- oocytes (P>0.05). The implantation rate was comparable in SERa+ and SERa- cycles (P>0.05), but it is higher in the group of only SERa- embryo transfer when compared with the group of mixed SERa+ and SERa- embryo transfer (P<0.05). One hundred and fifty-nine newborns in SERa+ cycles and 140 newborns in SERa- cycles were followed up. Comparable newborn malformation rate was observed between SERa+ and SERa- cycles and oocytes (P>0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed number of oocytes and total dose of Gn were risk factors for SERa occurrence (aOR=1.05 and 1.55, P<0.001).Conclusion: Oocyte's SERa is correlated with a number of oocytes retrieved and higher Gn dose, but it does not impact pregnancy outcomes and increase newborn malformation rate.
Complex-domain enhancing neural network for large-scale coherent imaging
Authors: Bian Liheng , Chang Xuyang , Zhao Rifa , Jiang Shaowei , Shen Cheng , Zheng Guoan , Yang Changhuei
Published: August 2022

Large-scale computational imaging allows an unprecedented resolution beyond the space-bandwidth production (SBP) limit of the optical system. In coherent imaging (CI), the joint reconstruction of amplitude and phase further expands the information throughput and sheds light on label-free observation of biological samples at micro or even nano level. The existing large-scale CI techniques usually require scanning/modulation multiple times to guarantee measurement diversity and long exposure time to achieve a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Such cumbersome procedure restricts clinic applications for rapid and low-phototoxicity cell imaging. In this work, a complex-domain enhancing neural network for large-scale coherent imaging termed CI-CDNet is reported for various large-scale CI modalities with outstanding reconstruction image quality and efficiency. CI-CDNet is able to exploit the latent coupling information between amplitude and phase, realizing multi-dimensional representation of complex wavefront. The cross-field characterization framework empowers strong generalization and robustness for various coherent modalities, allowing high-quality and efficient imaging under extremely few data volume and low exposure time. We applied CI-CDNet in various large-scale CI modalities including Kramers-Kronig-relations holography, Fourier ptychographic microscopy, and lensless coded ptychography. A series of simulations and experiments validate that CI-CDNet can reduce data volume requirement and exposure time by more than one order of magnitude. We further demonstrated that the high-quality reconstruction of CI-CDNet benefits the subsequent high-level semantic analysis.
Ectopic Vasodilation of a young woman with Loeys-Dietz syndrome in 10 years
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiro , Iba Yutaka , Shibata Tsuyoshi , Hosaka Itaru , Nakazawa Jyunji , Kawaharada Nobuyoshi
Published: August 2022

We report the 10-year surgical course of a 27-year-old young woman who underwent two surgeries s after being diagnosed with Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS). As previously reported, this case showed ectopic arterial enlargement, and we can follow its temporal changes over a 10-year period. We described computed tomography (CT) changes over time and the appearance and pathology findings in surgery.
Missions, Fertility Transition, and the Reversal of Fortunes: Evidence from Border Discontinuities in the Emirates of Nigeria
Authors: Okoye Dozie , Pongou Roland
Published: August 2022

What are the origins of differences in fertility and economic transition across African societies? This paper addresses this question by causally estimating average and heterogeneous effects of colonial-era Christian missions on human capital accumulation, fertility decline, and household wealth in Nigeria. Our identification strategy exploits discontinuities in mission stations around the borders of the Emirates of Northern Nigeria, where missionary activities were restricted by the colonial administration. We find that areas with greater historical missionary activities have higher levels of schooling, lower levels of fertility, and higher household wealth today. The long-run effect of missions is not found in areas with early access to government schools, and is larger for population subgroups—women and Muslims—that have historically suffered disadvantages in access to education. Importantly, we show that the restriction of missions from the Emirates of Northern Nigeria has led to a reversal of fortunes, wherein areas that were more prosperous and institutionally developed in the past are relatively poorer today. The analysis provides novel insights into the differential pace of demographic transition between Northern and Southern Nigeria, and highlights patterns consistent with the prediction of Unified Growth Theory, whereby an improved technological environment leads to greater demand for education, triggering a fertility decline, resulting in higher incomes per capita.JEL Classification: I20, N30, N37, N47, O15, Z12.
A reproducible approach for scoring TIL in residual tumors after neoadjuvant treatment of breast cancer patients
Authors: Thomas Noemie , Garaud Soizic , Langouo Mireille , Sofronii Doïna , Boisson Anais , de Wind Roland , Duwel Valérie , Craciun Ligia , Larsimont Denis , Awada Ahmad , Willard-Gallo Karen
Published: August 2022

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is standard of care for patients with locally advanced breast cancer. TIL scoring is prognostic for response and has additional predictive value to the residual cancer burden after NAC. However, NAC induces various changes in the tumor bed and reliability of TIL scoring in post-NAC samples has not yet been studied. Pre- and post- NAC FFPE blocs from 60 patients were collected. H&E and dual CD3/CD20 chromogenic IHC-stained tissues were prepared and scored for global, stromal and intratumoral TIL by two experienced pathologists. Digital TIL scoring was preformed using the HALO® image analysis software. Comparison of the different scoring methods was done by calculation the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), the Bland-Altman method and Passing-Bablok regression analysis. In patients with residual disease we demonstrate a good inter-pathologist correlation for global and stromal TIL on H&E stained tissue (CCC value 0.73, CI 0.53–0.85 for stromal TIL on H&E). Good correlation for scoring using the two staining methods (CCC 0.81, CI 0.67–0.90 for stromal TIL score) and with digital TIL scoring (CCC 0.77, CI 0.59–0.88) is demonstrated. There is only a poor to moderate reliability for intratumoral TIL scores. While overall concordance for TIL scoring in patients with a complete response is poor, there is a moderate inter-pathologist reliability for stromal TIL scoring on CD3/CD20 stained tissue. This study demonstrates a good reliability for TIL scoring in patients after NAC treatment, comparable to results in untreated breast cancer patients, in patients that have detectable residual tumor. Since there is a good concordance with digital TIL scoring, the development of a validated algorithm could be helpful in the future.
The Effect between Academic Stress and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Behavior among Adolescents in Ethnic Areas: The Moderating Effect of Self-efficacy and Parental Supports
Authors: LAN Zhensong , Pau Kee , Yu Hapsah Binti Md , Huang Xuefang , Xu Ruiying
Published: August 2022

Background
Coupled with the importance parents attach to education in Chinese culture, which makes adolescents bear more pressure. Academic stress has always been one of the central pressures faced by Chinese adolescents, and there is a strong link between academic stress and the non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) behavior of Chinese adolescents.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 selected middle schools in Guangxi Province, China, to examine the relationship between academic stress and adolescents' NSSI behavior and further analyze the relationship between adolescents' self-efficacy and parental support in stress and NSSI. A total of 2344 children were included in the analysis, including 1142 boys (48.72%) and 1202 girls (51.28%).
Results
The prevalence of NSSI was not significant among adolescents of different ethnic groups (t=-1.48, p = 0.139), but academic stress had a positive effect on adolescents' NSSI behavior (R = -0. 246, p < 0.01). Self-efficacy and parental support can moderate the relationship between academic stress and NSSI behavior. The moderating effect of parental support is more robust than self-efficacy; the interaction of self-efficacy and parental support harms the relationship between adolescent stress and NSSI behavior, but for adolescents with high self-efficacy levels, the more likely it is to be is to cause adolescent NSSI behavior.
Conclusion
Academic stress harms adolescents' NSSI behavior, and self-efficacy and parental support can alleviate the negative effect of adolescent stress on NSSI behavior. However, it is necessary to provide appropriate parental support for adolescents with different levels of self-efficacy.
Long Term Cost Outcomes Among Commercially Insured Patients Undergoing Bariatric Procedures.
Authors: Shambhu Sonali , Ma Qinli , Pryor David , Karam Joseph , DeVries Andrea
Published: August 2022

Background: There has been a significant shift in the types of bariatric procedures being performed in the past decade, as procedures have become safer and less invasive, warranting a new data on long-term cost effectiveness. This study aims to examine the impact of bariatric procedures on a person’s long-term health care costs and compare how the impact differs by type of surgical procedure using 10-year data from 2009 -2018.Methods: This retrospective observational study compared the downstream health care cost of patients with obesity who had bariatric surgery to a matched nonsurgical cohort. Results: A total of 83 882 health plan enrollees who underwent bariatric surgery between January 2009 to December 2018, and a 1:1 matched group of health plan enrollees who were obese (body mass index≥30 kg/m2) but did not undergo bariatric surgery. The surgical group was associated with lower overall health care cost compared to the matched non-surgical group (cost ratios ranged 0.77 to 0.97, p values<.01). Lower costs were sustained during the initial six years following surgery. Majority of the cost savings came from reduced spending on prescription medications, particularly antidiabetics. However, the saving didn’t offset the initial surgery cost. Among the three most performed bariatric surgical procedures, sleeve gastrectomy was the most cost-effective.Conclusions: Post bariatric surgery cost savings have increased due to less complications and reduced medication spending, but the initial cost of bariatric surgery remains high than the savings incurred over years. This study provides recent economic data to inform policy makers and employers in designing benefits for bariatric procedures.
Partial arch replacement of type A aortic dissection after thoracic endovascular aortic repair for type B dissection
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiro , Iba Yutaka , Shibata Tsuyoshi , Nakazawa Jyunji , Ogura Keishi , Kawaharada Nobuyoshi
Published: August 2022

We herein describe a 58-year-old man with type A aortic dissection due to stent graft-induced new entry (SINE). Six years previously, he had developed severe back pain and was diagnosed with type B aortic dissection after computed tomography examination. Because the primary entry was positioned at the descending aorta, we conducted thoracic endovascular aortic repair for exclusion of the entry with a GORE TAG conformable thoracic aortic. He was thereafter followed by our hospital. Six years later, he developed jaw pain and was examined at another hospital. He was transferred to our hospital because of the possibility of type A dissection. Computed tomography revealed type A aortic dissection with proximal site SINE. Emergency partial arch replacement was conducted, and he was discharged on postoperative day 27. Because the entry was at the lesser curve of the arch, we excluded the entry and conducted partial arch replacement.
Topographical and Morphological Feature studies of Valles Marineris, Mars by Mars Color Camera onboard Mars Orbiter Mission with MOLA data
Authors: Sivasankari T. , Arivazhagan S.
Published: August 2022

In the present study, the Valles Marineris Province of Mars, have been selected for morphological analysis by using the Mars Colour Camera (MCC) on board Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), commonly called as Mangalyaan. Mars Colour Camera (MCC) images the complete Mars with a spatial resolution of nearly 4 km to 19 m. Features like, fractured terrains, plateau, landslides, yardangs, impact craters were mapped using MCC. The topographic analysis were done using the MOLA data indicating that Noctis Labrynthus has the highest elevation of ~ 7500 m, Melas Chasma and Coprates Chasma has the lowest depth of about ~ -5000m. Fractured terrain shows the tectonic activity whereas, the presence of plateau, mesa and yardangs shows the abundance of aeolian activity, Chaotic terrain shows that they are plateau remnants and the presence of landslide and slide materials shows that the landslide had occurred due gravity or due to the underground water movement.
Malicious iOS apps detection through Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach
Authors: Bhatt Arpita Jadhav , Sardana Neetu
Published: August 2022

Smartphones are used in daily lives because they are ubiquitous and provide internet connectivity. Their functionalities can be extended by installing third-party apps. Users are compelled to use these feature-rich apps. As a result, the menaces because of these apps have increased. Smartphones store more users’ personal than compared to data stored on desktops since they remain with individuals throughout the day making them an easy target for intruders. Apple follows permission-based access control to prevent users’ privacy. Every app declares the permission, which is notified to the user during app usage. However, the users are unaware of whether the app is breaching their privacy? To combat this problem, we propose a hybrid approach to detect malicious iOS apps based on their permissions. In the first phase, weights have been assigned to app permissions using a multi-criteria decision-making approach namely Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). In the second phase, machine and ensemble learning techniques have been employed for detecting malicious apps. To test the efficacy of the proposed method dataset comprising 1150 apps from 12 app categories has been used. The experimental results demonstrate the proposed approach improves the efficacy of detecting malicious iOS apps for majority of categories.
Implementing AI-based Conversational Chatbots in EFL Speaking Classes: An Evolutionary Perspective
Authors: Mahmoud Rehab Hassan
Published: August 2022

In the twenty first century, artificial intelligence (AI) has undergone an unprecedented development as a result of the advancements in computer science as well as the ability to access and store data. The present study aims not only to investigate the impact of AI-based conversational chatbots on learning in general and students’ speaking skills in particular, but also to enhance students’ engagement in educational settings. In the present study, two theories of learning; namely, the Situated Learning theory and the Self-regulated theory were adopted in the face-to-face classroom. The researcher collected data about the required variables by both a questionnaire and a pre-test and a post-test. The data have been analysed using standard statistical techniques. Based on both a Chi-square and a correlations test, results indicated that there is a positive impact of the integration of conversational chatbots on EFL learners’ speaking performance in the post-test of the present study.
Improvement of small scale dolomite mine blast fragmentation efficiency using hybrid artificial intelligence and soft computing approaches-A case study
Authors: Taiwo Blessing Olamide
Published: August 2022

Blast fragmentation efficiency prediction can enhance the improvement of blast productivity and the prediction using available software is capital expensive. This study proposed soft computing models based on artificial intelligence approaches and multivariate regression techniques to predict small diameter hole blast fragmentation efficiency at the Akoko Edo dolomite quarry. WipFrag software was used to analyze blast muck pile pictures taken and to evaluate the blast fragmentation performance. The proposed model performance was checked with five model performance indices including average bias error, root means square error, correlation coefficient, and average absolute error were computed. The obtained result reveals that the Adaptive Neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) proposed model is capable of accurate prediction of blast fragmentation efficiency as compared with artificial neural networks and Multivariate regression models. Sensitivity analysis computed shows that the Powder factor has the highest influence on fragmentation efficiency.
Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of twigs and leaves extracts of Tertraclinis articulata (Vahl) Masters
Authors: zerkani Hannou , ZEKRI Nadia , TAGNAOUT Imane , FADILI Kamal , AMALICH Smail , ELAZZOUZI Hanane , BOUHRIM Mohamed , ZAIR Touriya
Published: August 2022

To research natural antioxidants, the present study aims to extract and identify new substances of natural origin through the phytochemical study and the evaluation of the antioxidant activity of extracts of twigs and leaves of Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Masters, harvested from the Khenifra region (Middle Atlas, Morocco). The Phytochemical screening, based on precipitation and complexation reactions, showed that the twigs and leaves of T. articulata contain flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, mucilages, sterols and triterpenes. The extraction of the phenolic compounds was done using a Soxhlet apparatus. The assays of polyphenols, flavonoids and condensed tannins of the obtained extracts showed that the highest content of polyphenols was recorded by the ethyl acetate extract (654.69 ± 0.33mgEAG/gE). Concerning the flavonoids, the hydroethanolic extract records the highest content (20,31 ± 0,02mgEQ/gE). For the condensed tannins, the highest content was observed by the extract of the residual phase (27.72 ± 0.11mgEC/gE). Indeed, due to the analysis by HPLC/SM, we were able to identify in the E.MeOH of T. articulata seven flavonic glycosides which are Catechin, B-type (Epi) catechin dimer, gallocatechin, Myricetin-hexose, Myrcetin-rhamnose, Quercetin-3-o-Rhamnoside and kampferol-deoxyhexose. The in vitro evaluation of the antioxidant activity of T. articulata extracts was performed by DPPH and FRAP methods. The extracts of T. Articulata showed a significant antioxidant power. The lowest IC50 and EC0.5 were recorded by E. EtOH. These low concentrations (IC50 and CE0.5) obtained by DPPH and FRAP are 70 ± 0.07 µg/ml and 104.12 ± 1.02 µg/ml, respectively. This study revealed that the extracts of T. articulata are potentially important due to their richness in secondary metabolites of its antioxidant power.
Revisiting controversies on the measurement of Human development
Authors: DIALGA Issaka
Published: August 2022

A decade after Klugman et al's (2011) magisterial criticism on the HDI, controversies on the issue of measurement of human development remains alive. This paper updates this debate by focusing on 3 key issues: i) does the measurement of the HDI through a single value have empirical proof? ii) Is the equal weighting of components of the index statistically justified? iii) What weighting system should be adopted when taking into account the heterogeneity of the countries? The paper addresses these issues using Principal Components Analysis (PCA) on the 2020 HDI data. PCA results support the measurement of human progress through a composite index. The paper shows that the choice of equal weights (1/3, 1/3, 1/3) is valid in the new HDI calculations. However, when taking into account the heterogeneity of the ranked countries, weights should be unequal. The health dimension, the knowledge one and the decent standard of living should be respectively weighted as follow: (0.357, 0.354, 0.289) for the first set of homogeneous countries called “high human development countries’’; (0.468, 0.499, 0.03) for the second ones called “medium human development countries” and (0.271, 0.370, 0.359) for the third ones called “low human development countries”. As a consequence, these unequal weights schemes modify the country specific score and then, the UNDP 2020 ranking.JEL Codes:C1, C180, I32, O57
The ultrasonic vibration-assisted polishing material removal model of tilted cylindrical polishing tool based on BK7 glass
Authors: Cui Zhijie , Liang Yingdong , Chen Xin , Meng Fanwei , Wang Zixuan , Yu Tianbiao , Zhao Ji
Published: August 2022

BK7 glass is widely used in various optical instruments as common ceramic material. However, there are still several difficulties in the polishing process due to its material properties. Ultrasonic vibration-assisted polishing (UVAP) is used widely for its excellent material removal properties. However, there are few researches on the model of UVAP material removal for tilted. Therefore, this paper investigates this problem. A model of UVAP material removal was established for titled column polishing; The pressure distribution and velocity distribution in the contact zone were modeled by means of experiments and geometric analysis. A series of orthogonal experiments were conducted, and the experimental results showed that the coefficient of determination was above 0.9 after fitting the actual profile to the predicted profile. The results of the orthogonal experiments were also analyzed by ANOVA. The predict error of maximum removal depth was less than 13.12%. The error of material removal rate (MRR) was less than 9.24%. By PSD analysis, it was found that the introduction of ultrasonic amplitude has a good effect on suppressing the medium and high frequency errors on the machined surface. The novel model can be used to optimize machining parameters and provide theoretical support for complex parts polishing.
Effects of application of rice husk biochar and limestone on cadmium accumulation in wheat under glasshouse and field conditions
Authors: Niu Zehui , Ma Jiayan , Fang Xianzhi , Xue Zhaokun , Ye Zhenqian
Published: August 2022

Cadmium (Cd) has seriously threatened the safe production of food crops. Passivator amendments are commonly used to control the soil Cd availability. Yet, few studies are tested to explore the effect of the combination of various amendments. Here, we investigated the effects of different amendments (2% rice husk biochar, 2% limestone, and 1% rice husk biochar +1% limestone) on the growth and Cd accumulation of wheat in pot and field experiments. The results showed that under the low soil Cd condition, the maximum increase of soil pH (1.83) was found in the limestone treatment compared to CK in pot experiment. Compared with the CK，the treatment of rice husk biochar decreased soil Cd availability and grain Cd content by about 25% and 31.2%, respectively. In contrast, under high soil Cd condition, the highest soil pH was observed in limestone, while the lowest soil Cd availability and grain Cd concentrations were found in rice husk biochar treatment. In the field experiment, the treatment of 1% rice husk biochar +1% limestone caused a significant increase of soil pH by about 28.2%, whereas the treatment of 2% rice husk biochar reduced soil Cd availability and grain Cd content by about 38.9% and 38.5% compared to the CK. Therefore, rice husk biochar showed great potential to reduce Cd availability and ensure safe food production.