bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KETERLIBATAN PEMERINTAH DAERAH DALAM PENCEGAHAN KONFLIK ATAS KEHADIRAN ALFAMIDI DI KABUPATEN KOLAKA
Authors: Muhammad Alamsyah , Wa Ode Sifatu , Elvianus Koodoh Erens
Published: April 2022

This study aims to describe the conflict prevention efforts between UMKM retailers and Alfamidi in Kolaka Regency by the Kolaka Regency Government. The theory used in this research refers to Marx's concept, which focuses on conflicts that occur due to interactions that occur in the economic system; production sub-system, distribution sub-system, trade sub-system and consumption sub-system, then the solution is to harmonize these interactions by building new relationships that need each other and last a long time, in order to stem the factors that cause conflicts that can occur. . The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative method, with data collection techniques through observation, in-depth interviews and instrumentation. Based on the results and discussion, basically the types of conflicts that occur are goal and personal, where the factors that cause conflict are (1) communication, and (2) structure. And then the factors causing the conflict are dammed by; (1) Memorandum of Understanding is drawn up between the Local Government of Kolaka Regency and PT. Midi Utama Indonesia Tbk, (2) holding Alfamidi Exposure Socialization and (3) implementing promo prices for MSME retail owners as well as presenting Member Relation Officer by Alfamidi.Keywords: Alfamidi, conflict, economy, MSMEs, retail.
PERUBAHAN POLA KONSUMI PANGAN LOKAL KE BERAS PADA PENERIMA PROGRAM KELUARGA HARAPAN (PKH) DI KOTA KENDARI
Authors: Asnaity Eva , Aso La , Syahrun Syahrun
Published: April 2022

The objective of this study is to describe the local food consumption patterns of the recipients of the Family Hope Program (PKH). The theory used for reading data is the thinking of Levi Strauss on the Culinary Triangle and Kingsley Davis (1990) on Social Change. This research used qualitative data, where primary data was obtained through observation and in-depth interviews with informants and field notes, then all research objects were analyzed descriptively qualitatively. The results of research showed that the changes in local food consumption patterns of rice for the recipients of the Family Hope Program have experienced a change in that they used to consume local food more often with the assistance program from the government making the community's dependence on rice commodities, besides that people's taste for rice consumption is influenced because the taste of rice is better. than nice.Keywords: Consumption patterns, local food, recipients of the hopeful family program (PKH)
Estimating Compounding Storm Surge and Sea Level Rise Effects and Bias Correction Impact when Projecting Future Impact on Volcanic Islands in Oceania. Case Study of Viti Levu, Fiji
Authors: Sabūnas Audrius , Mori Nobuhito , Shimura Tomoya , Fukui Nobuki , Miyashita Takuya
Published: April 2022

Oceania comprises many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the majority of which are founded on volcanic islands. Small islands are generally vulnerable to the effects of climate change. However, a high number of islands and different coastal morphology make it challenging to accurately estimate climate change impact on this region. Nevertheless, quantifying hazards and thus assessing vulnerability is crucial for policymaking and adaptation efforts regarding SIDS. Meanwhile, Viti Levu is the principal island of Fiji. Therefore, climate change projection in Viti Levu helps estimate how volcanic islands in Oceania will be affected under future climate. This study projects the compound impact of storm surge by tropical cyclone (TC) and SLR on Viti Levu under current and future climate conditions. The primary goal of this study is to estimate the impact of extreme 50- and 100-years return storms on coastal areas and populations. This study also assesses the impact of the bias correction of TC intensity for impact assessment. Even though limited to one island, the results could facilitate the application on other volcanic islands, primarily in Melanesia. Even though Viti Levu is a high island, tropical cyclones can sustain extensive economic damage and result in high numbers of the temporarily displaced population in some low-lying coastal locations. The results show that bias can be significant when comparing observed and estimated datasets, particularly for less intense and future extreme events.
The Root Causes of the Limited Electroluminescence Stability of Solution-Coated Versus Vacuum-Deposited Small-Molecule OLEDs: A Mini-Review
Authors: Samaeifar Fatemeh , Aziz Hany
Published: April 2022

Using solution-coating methods for the fabrication of organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) offers a tremendous opportunity for enabling low-cost products and new applications. The electroluminescence (EL) stability of solution-coated (SOL) OLEDs, however, is significantly lower than that of vacuum-deposited (VAC) OLEDs, causing their operational lifetimes to be much shorter—an issue that continues to hamper their commercialization. The root causes of the lower EL stability of these devices remain unclear. This article briefly reviews and summarizes some of the work that has been done to-date for elucidating the root cause of the lower EL stability of SOL OLEDs, giving special attention to studies where side-by-side comparisons of SOL and VAC devices of the same materials have been conducted. Such comparisons allow for more-reliable conclusions about the specific effects of the solution-coating process on device stability to be made. The mini-review is intended to introduce the work done to-date on the causes of lower stability in SOL OLEDs and to stimulate further work for the purpose of closing the existing knowledge gap in this area and surmounting this long-standing challenge in the SOL OLED technology.
Resilient Biomedical Systems Design Under Noise Using Logic-Based Machine Learning
Authors: Rahman Tousif , Shafik Rishad , Granmo Ole-Christoffer , Yakovlev Alex
Published: April 2022

Increased reliance on electronic health records and plethora of new sensor technologies has enabled the use of machine learning (ML) in medical diagnosis. This has opened up promising opportunities for faster and automated decision making, particularly in early and repetitive diagnostic routines. Nevertheless, there are also increased possibilities of data aberrance arising from environmentally induced noise. It is vital to create ML models that are resilient in the presence of data noise to minimize erroneous classifications that could be crucial. This study uses a recently proposed ML algorithm called the Tsetlin machine (TM) to study the robustness against noise-injected medical data. We test two different feature extraction methods, in conjunction with the TM, to explore how feature engineering can mitigate the impact of noise corruption. Our results show the TM is capable of effective classification even with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of −15dB as its training parameters remain resilient to noise injection. We show that high testing data sensitivity can still be possible at very low SNRs through a balance of feature distribution–based discretization and a rule mining algorithm used as a noise filtering encoding method. Through this method we show how a smaller number of core features can be extracted from a noisy problem space resulting in reduced ML model complexity and memory footprint—in some cases up to 6x fewer training parameters while retaining equal or better performance. In addition, we investigate the cost of noise resilience in terms of energy when compared with recently proposed binarized neural networks.
Prognostic Outcome of New-Onset Left Bundle Branch Block After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Aortic Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Jialu , Liu Shidong , Han Xiangxiang , Chen Yang , Chen Hao , Wan Zunhui , Song Bing
Published: April 2022

Background

Left bundle branch block (LBBB) is a common complication of the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), and its impact on prognosis is controversial.

Methods

A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and The Web of Science), from the date of database establishment till March 2021, to screen for studies on new-onset LBBB after TAVR. We next performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of new-onset LBBB after TAVR on patient prognosis, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Results

A total of 17 studies, including 9205 patients, were eligible for our analysis. Patients with new-onset LBBB had elevated all-cause mortality risk verses patients without new-onset LBBB, during all follow ups. The relevant data are as follows: 30-day (RR:1.71; 95%CI:1.27–2.29; P < 0.001), 1-year (RR:1.31; 95%CI:1.12–1.52; P < 0.001), and 2-year (RR:1.31; 95%CI:1.09–1.56; P = 0.003) follow ups. Likewise, new-onset LBBB patients also experienced increased cardiovascular mortality, compared to non-new-onset LBBB patients, but only in the 1-year follow up (RR:1.49; 95%CI:1.23–1.82; P < 0.001). Hospitalization for heart failure was dramatically elevated in patients with new-onset LBBB verses non-new-onset LBBB, in all follow ups. The relevant data are as follows: 30-day (RR:1.56; 95%CI:1.13–2.12; P = 0.007), 1-year (RR:1.35; 95%CI:1.08–1.68; P = 0.007), and 2-year (RR:1.49; 95%CI:1.21–1.84; P < 0.001). Similarly, new-onset LBBB patients had higher PPI risk than non-new-onset LBBB patients, in all follow ups. The relevant data are as follows: 30-day (RR:3.05; 95%CI:1.49–6.22; P = 0.002), 1-year (RR:2.15; 95%CI:1.52–3.03; P < 0.001), and 2-year (RR:2.52; 95%CI:1.68–3.78; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with new-onset LBBB have worse prognosis after TAVR than those without new-onset LBBB. Recognition of the adverse effects of post-TAVR new-onset LBBB can lead to the development of new strategies that enhance clinical outcomes.

Systematic Trial Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=197224, identifier: 19722.
Kalman Filter Based High Precision Temperature Data Processing Method
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Liang Hong , Feng Jianchao , Tan Heping
Published: April 2022

Obtaining high precision temperature data is crucial in spaceflight applications, considering the growing demand for high precision temperature measurement and the limited onboard resources with a harsh thermal environment in the spacecraft. How to obtain the data, however, becomes an urgent problem. Kalman filtering method is one of the solutions to obtain high precision temperature data with such limited resources. In this paper, the authors demonstrate the principle of temperature measurement system, the application of Kalman filter in temperature measurement including the processing method of sensor self-heating effect, and establishes the state space of measurement error and system error. Through the test, it could be seen that Kalman filtering can improve the temperature measurement resolution to the order of 100 μK while effectively reducing the temperature measurement bias.
Modeling Soil Carbon Under Diverse Cropping Systems and Farming Management in Contrasting Climatic Regions in Europe
Authors: Begum Khadiza , Zornoza Raul , Farina Roberta , Lemola Riitta , Álvaro-Fuentes Jorge , Cerasuolo Marianna
Published: April 2022

Sustainable agriculture has been identified as key to achieving the 2030 Agenda for the Sustainable Development Goals, which aims to end poverty and hunger and address climate change while maintaining natural resources. Soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration is a key soil function for ecosystem services, and storing carbon (C) in soil by changing traditional management practices can represent an important step toward the development of more sustainable agricultural systems in Europe. Within the European project Diverfarming, the process-based ecosystem model ECOSSE was modified and evaluated in four long-term experiments (>8 years) to assess the impact of crop diversification and agricultural management in SOC dynamics. ECOSSE was able to simulate SOC under dry conditions in Mediterranean regions in Spain and Italy. In the site of Murcia, Spain, the addition of manure and cover crop in the diversified systems produced an increase of SOC in 9 years, when compared with the conventional management (16% measured increase, 32% simulated increase). The effect of tillage management on SOC stock in dry soil, in Foggia, Italy and Huesca, Spain, was also modeled, and a positive impact on SOC was predicted when no tillage was practiced. Finally, ECOSSE was used to understand the impact of diversifications in Boreal regions, Finland, where different proportions of legumes and grass were considered in a 4-year crop rotation compared with conventional cereal rotations. Experiments and modeling showed that the loss of SOC in conventional cereal was compensated when grass was introduced in the rotations. A good agreement (NRMSE <10%) and a nonsignificant bias were observed between model and experimental data for all sites. Mitigation scenarios considered in the modeling analysis for the test site Huesca showed that an integrated management of no tillage and manure is the best strategy to increase SOC, ∼51% over 20 years, compared with the baseline scenario (current farmers practice). This study demonstrated the ability of the modified version of ECOSSE to simulate SOC dynamics in diversified cropping systems, with various soil management practices and different climatic conditions.
Case Report: A Novel Mutation Identified in CHST14 Gene in a Fetus With Structural Abnormalities
Authors: Zhou Yuan-Yuan , Du Yu-Fang , Lu Qing , Zhai Xiu-Zhang , Shi Ming-Fang , Chen Dan-Yun , Liu Sun-Rong , Zhong Ying
Published: April 2022

Background: Musculocontractural Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (mcEDS) is a rare heritable connective tissue disease with various symptoms. The diagnosis of mcEDS is difficult because of the large overlap of clinical symptoms between different EDS subtypes.

Methods: We performed karyotype analysis, gene copy number variation detection, whole-exome sequencing, and Sanger sequencing to reveal the underlying genetic etiology of a fetus with structural abnormalities in feet and kidneys.

Results: A likely pathogenic mutation [NM_130468.3 c.958C>T (p.Arg320*)] and an uncertain significance mutation [NM_130468.3 c.896A>G (p.Tyr299Cys)] were identified in the carbohydrate sulfotransferase 14 (CHST14) gene by whole-exome sequencing and validated by Sanger sequencing.

Conclusion: The two identified mutations appear highly likely to be the genetic causes of the fetal structural abnormalities.
Nanotechnology in Kidney and Islet Transplantation: An Ongoing, Promising Field
Authors: Wang Wei , Teng Ya , Xue Ji-Ji , Cai Hong-Kai , Pan Yu-Biao , Ye Xing-Nan , Mao Xin-Li , Li Shao-Wei
Published: April 2022

Organ transplantation has evolved rapidly in recent years as a reliable option for patients with end-stage organ failure. However, organ shortage, surgical risks, acute and chronic rejection reactions and long-term immunosuppressive drug applications and their inevitable side effects remain extremely challenging problems. The application of nanotechnology in medicine has proven highly successful and has unique advantages for diagnosing and treating diseases compared to conventional methods. The combination of nanotechnology and transplantation brings a new direction of thinking to transplantation medicine. In this article, we provide an overview of the application and progress of nanotechnology in kidney and islet transplantation, including nanotechnology for renal pre-transplantation preservation, artificial biological islets, organ imaging and drug delivery.
Characteristics of the Fractional Amplitude of Low-Frequency Fluctuation in Ocular Hypertension Patients: A Resting-State fMRI Study
Authors: Liang Ying , Pan Yi-Cong , Shu Hui-Ye , Chou Xue-Mei , Ge Qian-Min , Zhang Li-Juan , Li Qiu-Yu , Liang Rong-Bing , Li Han-Lin , Shao Yi
Published: April 2022

Background

The fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) method has been underutilized in research on the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of ocular hypertension (OH).

Purpose

This study uses resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) and fALFF to investigate the nature of spontaneous brain activity in OH patients and the relationship, if any, between changes in activity and clinical features.

Materials and Methods

A total of 18 subjects (9 females and 9 males) with ocular hypertension (OH) and 18 healthy controls (HCs) matched for gender, age, and educational level were recruited to this study. All participants underwent an rs-fMRI scan, and spontaneous brain activity was assessed using the fALFF method. Receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted to investigate differences between OH and HC groups.

Results

The fALFF values of OH patients were significantly higher in the left precuneus lobe (LP), compared with the same region in controls (P < 0.05). Conversely, values in the left anterior cingulate lobe (LAC), were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in OH than in controls. However, no significant association was found between the mean fALFF values and clinical characteristics in either brain area.

Conclusion

High spontaneous activity in two brain areas may reflect neuropathological mechanisms underpinning visual impairment in OH patients.
The Metabolic Signatures of Surviving Cotwins in Cases of Single Intrauterine Fetal Death During Monochorionic Diamniotic Pregnancy: A Prospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Liu Xiyao , Fu Huijia , Wen Li , Zhu Fangyu , Wu Yue , Chen Zhi , Saffery Richard , Chen Chang , Qi Hongbo , Tong Chao , Baker Philip N. , Kilby Mark D.
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Single intrauterine fetal death (sIUFD) in monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancy may be associated with adverse clinical outcomes and possible metabolic changes in the surviving co-twin. Metabolomic profiling has not been undertaken before in these complex twin pregnancies.

Methods: In this prospectively collected case-control study, three cross-cohort comparisons were made between sIUFD MCDA (n = 16), uncomplicated MCDA (n = 16, eight pairs), and uncomplicated singleton pregnancies (n = 8). To identify major sources of variation within the sIUFD MCDA cohort, a secondary comparison was conducted between spontaneous sIUFD (n = 8) and sIUFD in MCDA twins due to selective termination of a single abnormal fetus by radiofrequency ablation (RFA) (n = 8). Metabolomics analysis of placental tissue and umbilical cord plasma was performed using LC-MS profiling. The underlying metabolic networks and pathways were analyzed by web-based platforms. Associations and statistical correlations of all identified differential metabolites with neonatal birthweight and birth length were assessed by multivariable linear regression, adjusted for maternal age and gestation.

Results: Across four comparisons, 131 and 111 differential metabolites were identified in placental tissue and cord plasma, respectively, with the highest variation seen between the spontaneous vs. single-induced IUFD in MCDA twins by RFA in the cord plasma. Conversely, the number of viable fetuses and the presence of sIUFD in MCDA twins had the highest impact on metabolite variation in placental tissue. Compounds correlated with fetal growth including placental acylcarnitines and gangliosides, along with specific amino acids (e.g., histidinyl-hydroxyproline), xenobiotics and biliverdin in cord plasma.

Conclusion: sIUFD in MCDA twin pregnancy correlates with distinctive metabolic signatures, mostly in fatty acyls and complex lipids, in placental tissue and cord plasma of the surviving cotwin. Some metabolites are also associated with fetal growth.
Updated Review of the Evidence Supporting the Medical and Legal Use of NeuroQuant® and NeuroGage® in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Ross David E. , Seabaugh John , Seabaugh Jan M. , Barcelona Justis , Seabaugh Daniel , Wright Katherine , Norwind Lee , King Zachary , Graham Travis J. , Baker Joseph , Lewis Tanner
Published: April 2022

Over 40 years of research have shown that traumatic brain injury affects brain volume. However, technical and practical limitations made it difficult to detect brain volume abnormalities in patients suffering from chronic effects of mild or moderate traumatic brain injury. This situation improved in 2006 with the FDA clearance of NeuroQuant®, a commercially available, computer-automated software program for measuring MRI brain volume in human subjects. More recent strides were made with the introduction of NeuroGage®, commercially available software that is based on NeuroQuant® and extends its utility in several ways. Studies using these and similar methods have found that most patients with chronic mild or moderate traumatic brain injury have brain volume abnormalities, and several of these studies found—surprisingly—more abnormal enlargement than atrophy. More generally, 102 peer-reviewed studies have supported the reliability and validity of NeuroQuant® and NeuroGage®. Furthermore, this updated version of a previous review addresses whether NeuroQuant® and NeuroGage® meet the Daubert standard for admissibility in court. It concludes that NeuroQuant® and NeuroGage® meet the Daubert standard based on their reliability, validity, and objectivity. Due to the improvements in technology over the years, these brain volumetric techniques are practical and readily available for clinical or forensic use, and thus they are important tools for detecting signs of brain injury.
Stimulation Parameters Used During Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Motor Recovery and Corticospinal Excitability Modulation in SCI: A Scoping Review
Authors: Brihmat Nabila , Allexandre Didier , Saleh Soha , Zhong Jian , Yue Guang H. , Forrest Gail F.
Published: April 2022

There is a growing interest in non-invasive stimulation interventions as treatment strategies to improve functional outcomes and recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a neuromodulatory intervention which has the potential to reinforce the residual spinal and supraspinal pathways and induce plasticity. Recent reviews have highlighted the therapeutic potential and the beneficial effects of rTMS on motor function, spasticity, and corticospinal excitability modulation in SCI individuals. For this scoping review, we focus on the stimulation parameters used in 20 rTMS protocols. We extracted the rTMS parameters from 16 published rTMS studies involving SCI individuals and were able to infer preliminary associations between specific parameters and the effects observed. Future investigations will need to consider timing, intervention duration and dosage (in terms of number of sessions and number of pulses) that may depend on the stage, the level, and the severity of the injury. There is a need for more real vs. sham rTMS studies, reporting similar designs with sufficient information for replication, to achieve a significant level of evidence regarding the use of rTMS in SCI.
More Than Just Statics: Temporal Dynamic Changes in Inter- and Intrahemispheric Functional Connectivity in First-Episode, Drug-Naive Patients With Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Jiang Yu , Chen Yuan , Zheng Ruiping , Zhou Bingqian , Wei Ying , Gao Ankang , Wei Yarui , Li Shuying , Guo Jinxia , Han Shaoqiang , Zhang Yong , Cheng Jingliang
Published: April 2022

Several functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have demonstrated abnormalities in static intra- and interhemispheric functional connectivity among diverse brain regions in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the dynamic changes in intra- and interhemispheric functional connectivity patterns in patients with MDD remain unclear. Fifty-eight first-episode, drug-naive patients with MDD and 48 age-, sex-, and education level-matched healthy controls (HCs) underwent resting-state fMRI. Whole-brain functional connectivity, analyzed using the functional connectivity density (FCD) approach, was decomposed into ipsilateral and contralateral functional connectivity. We computed the intra- and interhemispheric dynamic FCD (dFCD) using a sliding window analysis to capture the dynamic patterns of functional connectivity. The temporal variability in functional connectivity was quantified as the variance of the dFCD over time. In addition, intra- and interhemispheric static FCD (sFCD) patterns were calculated. Associations between the dFCD variance and sFCD in abnormal brain regions and the severity of depressive symptoms were analyzed. Compared to HCs, patients with MDD showed lower interhemispheric dFCD variability in the inferior/middle frontal gyrus and decreased sFCD in the medial prefrontal cortex/anterior cingulate cortex and posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus in both intra- and interhemispheric comparisons. No significant correlations were found between any abnormal dFCD variance or sFCD at the intra- and interhemispheric levels and the severity of depressive symptoms. Our results suggest intra- and interhemispheric functional connectivity alterations in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and default mode network regions involved in cognition, execution and emotion. Furthermore, our study emphasizes the essential role of altered interhemispheric communication dynamics in the DLPFC in patients with MDD. These findings contribute to our understanding of the pathophysiology of MDD.
Development of Protein Rich Pregelatinized Whole Grain Cereal Bar Enriched With Nontraditional Ingredient: Nutritional, Phytochemical, Textural, and Sensory Characterization
Authors: Allai Farhana Mehraj , Dar B. N. , Gul Khalid , Adnan Mohd , Ashraf Syed Amir , Hassan Md Imtaiyaz , Pasupuleti Visweswara Rao , Azad Z. R. A. A.
Published: April 2022

This study was aimed to use extrusion cooking as a pretreatment for non-conventional seeds (Indian horse chestnut flour) to blend them with whole grain flours (whole wheat flour, whole barley flour, and whole corn flour) for the development of a pregelatinized cereal bar (PCB). In this study, date paste (7.5–17.5%) and walnut grits (2.5–12.5%) were incorporated at varying levels to prepare PCB. The PCB was evaluated for its nutritional, color, textural (both three-point bending test and TPA), antioxidant activity, and sensory attributes. The flexural modulus, rupture stress, and fracture strain of PCB increased with the incorporation of a higher proportion of date paste. The protein and fiber content in PCB increased from 7.74 to 9.13% and 4.81 to 5.59% with the incorporation of walnut grits and date paste, respectively. The DPPH, total phenolic content, and water activity of PCB were determined, which progressively enhanced with increased levels of walnut grits and date paste. The correlation between sensory attributes and instrumental texture on PCB was also investigated. The correlation results showed a significant (p < 0.05) positive correlation between texture analysis and sensory hardness, springiness, adhesiveness, and negatively correlated to instrumental and sensory cohesiveness. For sensorial attributes, all PCB samples presented average scores of 7/10 and 4/5 for buying intention. Therefore, whole grain extrudates, date paste, and walnut grits can be efficiently used to develop PCB with improved nutritional, nutraceutical, and economic values.
CDK6 Immunophenotype Implicates Potential Therapeutic Application of CDK4/6 Inhibitors in Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Ran , Wang Xuemei , Zhang Leichao , Gu Yu , Yang Shaojuan , Wang Liping , Wang Xueju
Published: April 2022

Background

Infiltrating bladder urothelial carcinoma is the most common bladder malignancy with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. Identifying new therapeutic targets or strategies has important clinical significance. The data from public sources indicate poor prognosis in urothelial carcinoma cases with high CDK6 mRNA levels. Furthermore, studies have shown that CDK6 expression is elevated in urothelial carcinoma tissue compared to the surrounding urothelium, thus presenting a case for performing CDK4/6 inhibitor targeted research in urothelial carcinoma. However, a phase II trial showed that CDK4/6 inhibitors are not effective for advanced urothelial carcinoma, suggesting that case screening is important for targeted therapy.

Objective

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is simple and easy to perform and can be used to screen urothelial carcinoma cases with high CDK6 expression in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to determine the CDK6 expression threshold for positive cases.

Methods

We evaluated the correlation between the H-score of CDK6 protein expression and survival or CDK6 mRNA level using RNA sequencing. The effects of different CDK4/6 inhibitors were tested on bladder carcinoma cell lines with different CDK6 expression levels.

Results

The H-score, which predicts poor prognosis and reflects a high CDK6 mRNA level, was determined as the selection criterion for positive cases. Furthermore, we found that urothelial carcinoma cell lines with higher CDK6 expression levels displayed greater sensitivity to CDK4/6 inhibitors than cells with lower expression levels.

Conclusions

IHC staining for CDK6 protein in urothelial carcinoma is proposed as a promising screening platform for CDK4/6 inhibitor targeted therapy.
Progression Patterns and Post-Progression Survival in Recurred Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Patients: A Novel Prognostic Nomogram Based on Multicenter Cohorts
Authors: Zhao Chongyu , He Chaobin , Lu Jiawei , Huang Xin , Chen Cheng , Lin Xiaojun
Published: April 2022

Background

The post-progression survival (PPS) of recurred intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) patients relates to the characteristics of tumor progression. Moreover, the prediction model of PPS in those patients has not been well established. This study aimed at developing a novel nomogram for predicting PPS in recurred iCCA patients.

Method

Clinical characteristics were retrospectively collected in 396 patients diagnosed with iCCA from cohorts of Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center (SYSUCC) and the First Hospital of Dalian Medical University (FHDMU). The PPS in patients with different progression patterns was investigated. The nomogram of PPS was established with the Cox regression model in the primary cohort. Then the nomogram was verified in the external validation cohort.

Results

Liver progression was the commonest pattern (42.08%) in recurred iCCA patients, while patients with local LN progression had significantly better PPS than those with other patterns. The independent prognostic factors comprised elevated CEA levels, tumor differentiation, N stage 8th, adjuvant therapy, Local LN metastasis, Liver Metastasis only, and Multiple Metastasis. The nomogram constructed on these factors achieved satisfied C-indexes of 0.794 (95% CI 0.769–0.828) and 0.827 (0.779–0.876) for the training and validation cohorts, respectively. These values were significantly higher than those of the 8th TNM stage system (all p < 0.001). The recurred iCCA patients could be precisely classified into high- and low-risk groups according to the cutoff point of this nomogram (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The investigation of progression patterns and the development of this nomogram can offer new evidence to precisely postoperative and post-progression management of iCCA patients.
Does the Microbiota Composition Influence the Efficacy of Colorectal Cancer Immunotherapy?
Authors: Lin Yan , Kong De-Xia , Zhang You-Ni
Published: April 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common malignancy globally, and many people with CRC suffer the fate of death. Due to the importance of CRC and its negative impact on communities, treatment strategies to control it or increase patient survival are being studied. Traditional therapies, including surgery and chemotherapy, have treated CRC patients. However, with the advancement of science, we are witnessing the emergence of novel therapeutic approaches such as immunotherapy for CRC treatment, which have had relatively satisfactory clinical outcomes. Evidence shows that gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota, including various bacterial species, viruses, and fungi, can affect various biological events, regulate the immune system, and even treat diseases like human malignancies. CRC has recently shown that the gut microorganism pattern can alter both antitumor and pro-tumor responses, as well as cancer immunotherapy. Of course, this is also true of traditional therapies because it has been revealed that gut microbiota can also reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. Therefore, this review summarized the effects of gut microbiota on CRC immunotherapy.
Comparing Perceived Pain Impact Between Younger and Older Adults With High Impact Chronic Pain: A Cross-Sectional Qualitative and Quantitative Survey
Authors: You Dokyoung S. , Ziadni Maisa S. , Hettie Gabrielle , Darnall Beth D. , Cook Karon F. , Von Korff Michael R. , Mackey Sean C.
Published: April 2022

High impact chronic pain (HICP) is a recently proposed concept for treatment stratifying patients with chronic pain and monitoring their progress. The goal is to reduce the impact of chronic pain on the individual, their family, and society. The US National Pain Strategy defined HICP as the chronic pain associated with substantial restrictions on participation in work, social, and self-care activities for at least 6 months. To understand the meaning and characteristics of HICP from the younger (<65 years old) and older adults (≥65 years old) with chronic pain, our study examined patients' perceived pain impact between the two age groups. We also characterize the degree of pain impact, assessed with the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) pain interference (PI), between adults and older adults with HICP. We recruited patients at a tertiary pain clinic. The survey included open-ended questions about pain impact, the Graded Chronic Pain Scale-Revised to identify patients' meeting criteria for HICP, and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) 8-item PI short form (v.8a). A total of 55 younger adults (65.5% women, 72.7% HICP, mean age = 55.0 with SD of 16.2) and 28 older adults (53.6% women, 64.3% HICP, mean age = 72.6 with SD of 5.4) with chronic pain participated in this study. In response to an open-ended question in which participants were asked to list out the areas of major impact pain, those with HICP in the younger group most commonly listed work, social activity, and basic physical activity (e.g., walking and standing); for those in the older group, basic physical activity, instrumental activity of daily living (e.g., housework, grocery shopping), and participating in social or fun activity for older adults with HICP were the most common. A 2 × 2 ANOVA was conducted using age (younger adults vs. older adults) and HICP classification (HICP vs. No HICP). A statistically significant difference was found in the PROMIS-PI T-scores by HICP status (HICP: M = 58.4, SD = 6.3; No HICP: M = 67.8, SD = 6.3), but not by age groups with HICP. In conclusion, perceived pain impacts were qualitatively, but not quantitatively different between younger and older adults with HICP. We discuss limitations and offer recommendations for future research.
Term Neonatal Complications During the Second Localized COVID-19 Lockdown and Prolonged Premature Rupture of Membranes at Home Among Nulliparas With Reference Interval for Maternal C-Reactive Protein: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Geng Yang , Zhao Weihua , Liu Wenlan , Tang Jie , Zhang Hui , Ke Weilin , Yao Runsi , Xu Ji , Lin Qing , Li Yun , Huang Jianlin
Published: April 2022

Objective

The COVID-19 lockdown extended premature rupture of membranes (PROM) expectant time among nulliparas and increased the risk of term neonatal complications. This study investigated the impact of term nulliparas with PROM delays at home on neonatal outcomes during the COVID-19 lockdown period, considering the clinical diagnostic application of maternal C-reactive protein (CRP).

Methods

This study collected 505 term nulliparous women who underwent PROM at home from five provinces in a non-designated hospital of China in 2020. We analyzed PROM maternal information at home and neonatal complications in the COVID-19 regional lockdown and compared related information in the national lockdown. Poisson regression models estimated the correlation of PROM management at home, maternal CRP, and neonatal morbidity. We constructed two diagnostic models: the CRP univariate model, and an assessed cut-off value of CRP in the combined model (CRP with PROM waiting time at home).

Results

In the regional lockdown, PROM latency at home and the severity of neonatal complications were extended and increased lower than in the nationwide lockdown, but term neonatal morbidity was not reduced in the COVID-19 localized lockdown. Prolonged waiting time at home (≥8.17 h) was associated with increasing maternal CRP values and neonatal morbidity (adjusted risk ratio 2.53, 95% CI, 1.43 to 4.50, p for trend <0.001) in the regional lockdown period. In the combined model, CRP ≥7 mg/L with PROM latency ≥8.17 h at home showed higher diagnostic sensitivity and AUC than only CRP for initial assessing the risk of adverse neonatal complications in COVID-19 regional lockdowns (AUC, 0.714 vs. 0.534; sensitivity, 0.631 vs. 0.156).

Conclusion

The impact of the acute COVID-19 national blockade on the PROM newborns' health could continue to the COVID-19 easing period. Maternal CRP reference interval (≥7 mg/L) would effectively assess the risk of term neonatal morbidity when nulliparas underwent prolonged PROM expectant at home (≥8.17 h) during the second COVID-19 lockdown.
Jurisprudence Meets Physics
Authors: Koehler Matthew
Published: April 2022

For many system level questions jurisprudential data has grown to a size and scale that no longer lends itself to traditional analytic techniques driven by human examination and direct analysis. While there will always be vast numbers of specific questions well within the capabilities of humans, an understanding of the system as a whole is no longer among them. Over the past several decades jurisprudence has begun to use mathematical and other analytic techniques many of which were developed in the physical sciences. It is now time for jurisprudence to embrace more fully the analytic tools of these other disciplines, specifically those coming out of physics, in order to continue to produce new insights to aid in the structure, function, design of judicial systems and the analysis of judicial dynamics.
Relationship Between Cognitive Appraisal of Control and Cardiac Vagal Regulation During an Unsupported Ski Crossing of Greenland
Authors: Trabucchi Pietro , Savoldelli Aldo , Mourot Laurent , Vacher Philippe , Pellegrini Barbara , Schena Federico
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships between Perceived Control (PC) and Heart rate variability (HRV) during a 27-day expedition, during which an unsupported crossing was made from the west coast to the east coast of Greenland (across the Ice Sheet); and that therefore a high PC represents a favourable factor for recovery and stress management.

Methods

Four subjects participated in the study. PC was measured on alternated days in the evening at the end of the day, using the Pearlin Mastery Scale; and the next day, upon waking, heart rate using a wrist heart rate monitor and a chest strap. Together with the PC, the perceived effort was measured through the CR-100 Borg scale and each subject was asked to indicate the most emotionally significant event of the day.

Time and frequency domain indices for heart rate variability were calculated.

Results

Several correlations were observed between PC and HRV indices. In particular two indices in the time domain, standard deviation of all NN intervals (SDNN) (rrm = 0.51) and root mean square of successive (RMSSD) (rrm = 0.46), showed a significant and strong positive correlation.

Conclusion

The existence of a positive correlation between PC and cardiac vagal regulation is of great interest to individuals immerged into extreme situations, because it can affect performance or prevents maladaptive states or injuries. To improve stress management, it could be convenient for members of extreme expeditions to adopt forms of cognitive training that modify their cognitive appraisal in order to raise their perception of control.
Efficacy and Safety of Novel Beta-Chitin Patches as Haemostat in Rat Vascular and Neurosurgical Model
Authors: Sabab Ahad , Vediappan Rajan Sundaresan , Finnie John , McAdam C. John , Jukes Alistair , Vreugde Sarah , Wormald Peter-John
Published: April 2022

Background

Intraoperative hemorrhage is a major cause of poor post-operative outcome. Beta-chitin patch has previously been found to be an effective haemostat, but whether modifying the patch can improve its efficacy and safety, remains unknown. In this study, beta-chitin patches were modified using polyethylene oxide, Pluronic-F127 (Chi/F127), calcium (Chi/20%Ca), increased thickness (Chi/Thick) or polyphosphate (Chi/PP).

Objective

Using rat (Wistar Albino; 8–10 weeks old) vascular and neurosurgical models, this project investigated and compared the efficacy and safety of beta-chitin patches with gauze, Surgicel and FloSeal.

Methods

Ninety rats underwent a standardized femoral artery injury and were randomized to receive either beta-chitin patches, gauze, Surgicel or FloSeal. The bleeding time and total blood loss was measured. For the neurosurgical model, forty-four rats underwent a standardized cortical injury and randomization to a treatment group. Following a 48 h recovery period, their brains were collected for histopathological examination.

Results

The mean bleeding time with Chitin (120.8 s) and Chi/PP (117.3 s) was ~60 s lower than Chi/F127, Chi/20%Ca and Chi/Thick (p < 0.05). Chitin and Chi/PP had a significantly lower bleeding time than FloSeal (174.2 s) (p < 0.05), but not Surgicel (172.7 s). Gauze (400 s) had a significantly higher bleeding time compared to all other groups (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the total blood loss between the groups. Histopathological examination of brains found no adverse inflammatory reaction to any of the haemostatic compounds.

Conclusion

Chi/PP had superior haemostatic efficacy compared to Surgicel and FloSeal, but not compared to non-modified beta-chitin patch. All of the haemostats were equally safe.
Rapid Quantification of Tissue Perfusion Properties with a Two-Stage Look-Up Table
Authors: Yang Bin
Published: April 2022

Tissue perfusion properties reveal crucial information pertinent to clinical diagnosis and treatment. Multispectral spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) is an emerging imaging technique that has been widely used to quantify tissue perfusion properties. However, slow processing speed limits its usefulness in real-time imaging applications. In this study, we present a two-stage look-up table (LUT) approach that accurately and rapidly quantifies optical (absorption and reduced scattering maps) and perfusion (total hemoglobin and oxygen saturation maps) properties using stage-1 and stage-2 LUTs, respectively, based on reflectance images at 660 and 850 nm. The two-stage LUT can be implemented on both CPU and GPU computing platforms. Quantifying tissue perfusion properties using the simulated diffuse reflectance images, we achieved a quantification speed of 266, 174, and 74 frames per second for three image sizes 512 × 512, 1024 × 1024, and 2048 × 2048 pixels, respectively. Quantification of tissue perfusion properties was highly accurate with only 3.5% and 2.5% error for total hemoglobin and oxygen saturation quantification, respectively. The two-stage LUT has the potential to be integrated with dual-sensor cameras to enable real-time quantification of tissue hemodynamics.
Experimental Study on the Elemental Mercury Removal Performance and Regeneration Ability of CoOx–FeOx-Modified ZSM-5 Adsorbents
Authors: Ma Wei , Ye Dong , Wang Haining
Published: April 2022

Herein, a series of Co-Fe mixed oxide modified ZSM-5 adsorbents were synthesized using the ultrasonic-assisted impregnation method for the capture of elemental mercury. In comparison with other samples, Co4Fe1-ZSM-5 produced a relatively better performance, with the removal efficiency of around 96.6% Hg0 and the adsorption capacity of around 901.63 ug/mg Hg0 achieved at 120 °C. The interaction between CoOx and FeOx improved the reducibility of oxygen species, thus promoting the oxidation of Hg0. Among a variety of other gas components, O2 and NO exerted a positive effect on Hg0, which improved its removal to a certain extent. By contrast, SO2 caused an adverse effect on the capture of Hg0, which could be reversed to some degree by the introduction of 5% O2. After five cycles, the mercury removal efficiency of Co4Fe1-ZSM-5 remained above 90%, suggesting excellent recyclability. Finally, XPS analysis was conducted to reveal that Mars–Maessen mechanisms are dominant in the process of mercury adsorption.
Laser Cooling and Trapping of Rare-Earth-Doped Particles
Authors: Nemova Galina
Published: April 2022

This review focuses on optical refrigeration with the anti-Stokes fluorescence of rare-earth (RE)-doped low-phonon micro- and nanocrystals. Contrary to bulk samples, where the thermal energy is contained in internal vibrational modes (phonons), the thermal energy of nanoparticles is contained in both the translational motion and internal vibrational (phonons) modes of the sample. Much theoretical and experimental research is currently devoted to the laser cooling of nanoparticles. In the majority of the related work, only the translational energy of the particles has been suppressed. In this review, the latest achievements in hybrid optical refrigeration of RE-doped low-phonon micro- and nanoparticles are presented. Hybrid cooling permits the suppression of not only the translational energy of the RE-doped particles, but also their internal vibrational phonon thermal energy. Laser cooling of nanoparticles is not a simple task. Mie resonances can be used to enhance laser cooling with the anti-Stokes fluorescence of nanoparticles made of low-phonon RE-doped solids. Laser-cooled nanoparticles is a promising tool for fundamental quantum-mechanical studies, nonequilibrium thermodynamics, and precision measurements of forces.