bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First zootiological survey of Amblyomma geoemydae ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) infesting wild turtles in Northern Taiwan
Authors: Chao Li-Lian , Chen Tien-Hsi , Shih Chien-Ming
Published: August 2022

The prevalence of Amblyomma geoemydae infesting wild turtles (Cuora flavomarginata) was determined for the first time in northern Taiwan. A total of 352 ticks including 140 adults, 61 nymphs and 151 larvae were collected from 56 wild turtles. The overall infestation was observed with an average density of 6.29 ticks per turtle and the highest seasonal prevalence was observed on March with an average tick density of 14.25 ticks per turtle. The higher seasonal prevalence was observed on April, May, July and October with an average density of 4.82, 8.33, 5.67 and 8.50 ticks per turtle, respectively. The genetic identity was determined by comparing the sequences of ITS2 genes obtained from 7 Taiwan strains of Am. geoemydae and 9 other strains representing 8 species of Amblyomma and 1 outgroup species of Ixodes tick. Our results provide the first zootiological survey of Am. geoemydae ticks infesting wild turtles in northern Taiwan and highlight the possible geographical impacts of this tick species on animal/human health.
Immunomodulatory effect of kainic acid on HMGB1/TLR4 pathway in a thalamic reticular nucleus slice seizure model in rats
Authors: Li Dongbin , Zhang Xiaosi , Liu Ruoshi , Long Meixin , Zhou Shanshan , Lin Jinghan , Zhang Liming
Published: August 2022

Objective: To explore the relationship between pro-inflammatory factor high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and glutamatergic alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors in the development of epilepsy. Methods: Thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) slice was treated with kainic acid (KA) to simulate seizure. Seizure-like spikes and spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) were recorded within TRN slices using whole-cell patch clamp techniques. The translocation of HMGB1 were detected by Immunofluorescence. HMGB1/TLR4 signaling pathway and its downstream inflammatory factors (IL-1β and NF-κB) were detected by RT-PCR, Western blot and ELISA. Results: KA-evoked seizure-like spikes were observed in the TRN slices and blocked by perampanel. sIPSCs in the TRN were enhanced by KA and blocked by perampanel. The translocation of HMGB1 in TRN were promoted by KA and inhibited by perampanel. The expression of HMGB1/TLR4 signaling pathway were promoted by KA and suppressed by perampanel. Conclusion: The AMPA receptor and HMGB1/TLR4 signaling pathway interaction jointly contribute to the development of epilepsy.
Energy Efficient Congestion Control Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks using Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System with Black Widow Optimization
Authors: Ali Abdul , Vadivel M.
Published: August 2022

Network congestion is one of the major issues in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) that result in packet loss, reduced network lifetime, low throughput and energy waste. Determining a better path to mitigate the congestion is a better approach to improve the performance of WSNs. In this paper, an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) based path determination approach is proposed to mitigate the congestion with black widow optimization (BWO) algorithm. The hop count, buffer occupancy and remaining energy are considered as the input factors for the ANFIS. The simulation results of the proposed method show better quality of service, high energy, low delay, high packet delivery ratio with number of increasing alive nodes when compared to existing methods.
Immigrant and Refugee Experiences of Healthcare Access and Wellbeing During Covid-19 in Vermont: A Qualitative Evaluation
Authors: Velez Christine M. , Ávila Maria Mercedes , Darivemula Shilpa , Cavoretta Thomas E.
Published: August 2022

Background
Refugee and immigrant communities all over the world have been historically underserved in health and social services and more negatively impacted by policies meant to address crisis rather than focusing on preventive care and culturally sensitive services. The lack of culturally responsive services coupled with systemic discrimination faced by refugee and immigrant populations are amplified during the Covid-19 pandemic. Perspectives from refugee and immigrant groups are often lacking in the published literature. This qualitative evaluation includes focus groups with five distinct refugee and immigrant communities who shared perspectives on their experiences accessing healthcare during the Covid-19 pandemic in Vermont.
Methods
A total of 114 participants who identify as refugees and/or immigrants, and who reside in Vermont, participated in 10 focus groups representing the following five different cultural groups of refugees and immigrants: Nepali/Bhutanese, Congolese, Somali/Somali Bantu, Burmese and Arabic. Cultural brokers or community case managers helped recruit participants and assisted in the focus groups providing interpretation and translation services. Focus groups took place remotely via online platforms. Although focus groups were conducted in English, interpreters were present and focus group guides were translated to the languages spoken by the aforementioned groups. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed with patient confidentiality maintained. Four themes were identified through a process of thematic analysis as identified by Braun and Clarke.
Results
Participants encountered several challenges in having meaningful interactions with health care providers and found it difficult to schedule appointments. Interpretation and translation services were also sporadic and inadequate. Interpretation was most reliable via Telehealth and Zoom calls, yet most participants did not experience this as an ideal format for health care. Participants shared their experiences with Covid testing and vaccination. Although some reported positive experiences, many participants communicated barriers in the process and shared experiences of discrimination. Although vaccine hesitancy was expressed by some participants, some also felt eager and hopeful about the Covid-19 vaccine.
Conclusions
Refugee and immigrant participants encountered many challenges in accessing health care during the Covid-19 pandemic. Discussions with the community and trusted cultural brokers created space for shared solutions and patient-driven ideas for care improvement.
The development of an optimized and reliable iron overload HepG2 cell model
Authors: Abbasi Usama , Abbina Srinivas , Kizhakkedathu Jayachandran N.
Published: August 2022

Cell-based iron overload models provide tremendous utility for the investigations into the pathogenesis of different diseases as well as assessing efficacy of various therapeutic strategies. In the literature, establishing such models vary tremendously with regards to cell lines, iron source, iron treatment conditions and duration. Due to this diversity, researchers reported significant differences in the measured outcomes, either in cellular function or response to a stimulus. Herein, we report the process required to establish an iron overload HepG2 cell model to achieve a consistent and reproducible results such that the literature can strive towards a consensus. Iron loading in cells was achieved with 50 µM of iron every 24 hours for 2 days, followed by an additional 24 hours of maintenance in fresh media. We demonstrated that iron overloaded cells had significantly increased ROS generation, labile and total iron whilst having various cellular functions resemble cells without iron overload. The present report addresses key pitfalls with regards to the lack of consensus currently present in the literature.
The value of artificial intelligence for detection and grading of prostate cancer in human prostatectomy specimens: a validation study
Authors: Kudo Maíra Suzuka , Souza Vinicius Meneguette Gomes , Estivallet Carmen Liane Neubarth , Amorim Henrique Alves , Kim Fernando J. , Leite Katia Ramos Moreira , Moraes Matheus Cardoso
Published: August 2022

Background
The Gleason grading system is an important clinical practice for diagnosing prostate cancer in pathology images. However, this analysis results in significant variability among pathologists, hence creating possible negative clinical impacts. Artificial intelligence methods can be an important support for the pathologist, improving Gleason grade classifications. Consequently, our purpose is to construct and evaluate the potential of a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to classify Gleason patterns.
Methods
The methodology included 6982 image patches with cancer, extracted from radical prostatectomy specimens previously analyzed by an expert uropathologist. A CNN was constructed to accurately classify the corresponding Gleason. The evaluation was carried out by computing the corresponding 3 classes confusion matrix; thus, calculating the percentage of precision, sensitivity, and specificity, as well as the overall accuracy. Additionally, k-fold three-way cross-validation was performed to enhance evaluation, allowing better interpretation and avoiding possible bias.
Results
The overall accuracy reached 98% for the training and validation stage, and 94% for the test phase. Considering the test samples, the true positive ratio between pathologist and computer method was 85%, 93%, and 96% for specific Gleason patterns. Finally, precision, sensitivity, and specificity reached values up to 97%.
Conclusion
The CNN model presented and evaluated has shown high accuracy for specifically pattern neighbors and critical Gleason patterns. The outcomes are in line and complement others in the literature. The promising results surpassed current inter-pathologist congruence in classical reports, evidencing the potential of this novel technology in daily clinical aspects.
Peroxiredoxin 4 in alveolar macrophages: a novel target for the treatment of silicosis fibrosis
Authors: Zhou Jiawei , Bai Ying , Guo Jianqiang , Liu Yafeng , Zhang Xin , Liang Chao , Wang Wenyang , Xing Yingru , Wu Jing , Hu Dong
Published: August 2022

Silicosis is an occupational disease with the highest morbidity and mortality, and no specific medicine or recognized cure is available. Here, for the first time, we identified peroxiredoxin 4 (PRDX4) as a tissue-specific regulator of alveolar macrophages (AMs) in silicosis patients. We construct mouse models of early silicosis with self-repair and silicosis with systemic inhibition or conditional knockdown of PRDX4. Mechanistically, PRDX4 is selectively and highly expressed in AMs of silicosis patients and mice, which activates AMs through AKT/NF-κB pathway, thus promoting the transformation of pulmonary epithelial cells and fibroblasts. Functionally, systemic administration of a PRDX4 inhibitor (Conoidin A) significantly improves pulmonary self-repair in early silicosis mice. Interestingly, when knocking down PRDX4 of AMs by AAV virus vector, it not only prominently prevents the progression of crystalline silica (CS)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice, but also exhibits lower side effects. Taken together, these findings highlight PRDX4 as a novel target of AMs in regulating pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis, and targeted inhibition of PRDX4 in AMs may support a potential therapeutic strategy for silicosis.
A storm in a teacup: Exchange, prices, and credits.
Authors: Avetisyan Sergey
Published: August 2022

The one of most popular tools for measuring online behavior is Google Trends, an open tool that provides information on trends and the variations of online interest in selected keywords and topics over time. In this paper I show some stylised facts about economic activities like exchange, prices, and credits, from non official statistics. I use Google Trend data for measuring this words searching as proxy of financial actions determinants in Republic of Armenia. I use the Holt-Winters model for predict the patterns of people searches for exchange, prices, and credit over a given time interval.JEL classification: C22, C32, C5.
Development and validation of a prognostic nomogram for patients with stage II colon mucinous adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Jia , zhang Yiwei , zhou Jia , Fang Min , Wu Xiaofeng , Luo Yuhang , Huang Qiulin , Ouyang Yujuan , Xiao Shuai
Published: August 2022

Purpose
Mucinous histology is generally considered as a risk factor of prognosis in stage II colon cancer, but there is no appropriate model for prognostic evaluation and treatment decision in patients with stage II colon mucinous adenocarcinoma (C-MAC).
Methods
Patients with stage II C-MAC who underwent surgical treatment in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program were enrolled and randomly divided into training cohort (70%) and internal validation cohort (30%). Prognostic predictors which were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis in the training cohort were included in the nomogram. The calibration curves, decision curve analysis, X-tile analysis, and Kaplan-Meier curve of the nomogram were validated in the internal validation cohort.
Results
3762 patients of stage II C-MAC were enrolled. The age, pathological T (pT) stage, tumor number, serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and perineural invasion (PNI) were independent predictors of overall survival (OS), which were used to establish a nomogram. Calibration curves of the nomogram indicated good consistency between nomogram prediction and actual survival for 1-, 3- and 5-year OS. Besides, patients with stage II C-MAC could be divided into high-, middle- and low-risk subgroups by the nomogram. Further subgroup analysis indicated that patients in the high-risk group could have a survival benefit from chemotherapy after surgical treatment.
Conclusions
We established the first nomogram to accurately predict the survival of stage II C-MAC patients who underwent surgical treatment. In addition, the nomogram identified low-, middle- and high-risk subgroups of patients and found chemotherapy might improve survival in the high-risk subgroup of stage II C-MAC patients.
Demonstration of a Fast-training Feed-forward Machine Learning Algorithm for Studying Key Optical Properties of FBG and Predicting Precisely the Output Spectrum
Authors: Dey Koustav , Nikhil Vangety , Chaudhuri Partha Roy , Roy Sourabh
Published: August 2022

In this article, we propose and demonstrate a generalized machine learning (ML) approach to analyse the various optical properties of the Fiber Bragg grating (FBGs), namely effective refractive index, bandwidth, reflectivity and wavelength. For this purpose, three commonly used variants of FBG, namely conventional, π phase-shifted and chirped ones are investigated and the reflected spectra of the aforementioned FBGs are predicted using ab initio artificial neural networks (ANNs). We implemented a simple and fast-training feed-forward ANN and established the efficacy of our model by predicting the output spectrum with minute details for unknown device parameters along with non-linear and complex behaviour of the spectrum. Thus, our proposed ANN model is capable of predicting various key optical properties and reproducing the exact spectrum accurately and quickly, providing a cost-effective solution for efficient and precise modelling.
Crossover fatigue after unilateral submaximal eccentric contractions of the knee flexors involves peripheral alterations and perceived fatigue
Authors: Gioda Jennifer , Monjo Florian , Silva Flavio Da , Corcelle Baptiste , Piponnier Enzo , Bredin Jonathan , Colson Serge S.
Published: August 2022

After a unilateral muscle exercise, the performance of the non-exercised contralateral limb muscle can be also impaired. This crossover fatigue phenomenon is still debated in the literature and very few studies have investigated the influence of eccentric contractions. This study was designed to assess neuromuscular adaptations involved in the crossover fatigue of the non-exercised contralateral hamstrings. Seventeen healthy young men performed a unilateral submaximal eccentric exercise of the knee flexors until a 20% reduction in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) torque was attained in the exercised limb (EL). Before, immediately after exercise cessation (POST) and 24 hours later, neuromuscular function, global perceived fatigue and perceived muscle soreness were measured in both the EL and non-exercised limb (NEL). At POST, significant reductions in MVIC were observed in the EL (-28.1%, p < 0.001) and in the NEL (-8.5, p < 0.05). Voluntary activation decreased (-6.0, p < 0.05) in the EL only, while potentiated doublet torque were impaired (Dt100Hz -11.6%, p < 0.001 and Dt10Hz -8.1%, p < 0.05) in both the EL and the NEL. Global perceived fatigue significantly increased at POST (p < 0.001). Interestingly, peripheral alterations and global perceived fatigue may account for the crossover fatigue observed immediately after the exercise in the NEL possibly involving systemic adaptations.
Lactoferrin gene polymorphisms associated with clinical mastitis in Honduran Holstein cattle
Authors: Moncada-Laínez Marielena , Valladares-Medina Pablo Alejandro , Castillo Rogel , Rosa-Reyna Xochitl Fabiola De la , Sifuentes-Rincón Ana María , Moreno-Medina Victor Ricardo , Lara-Rivera Ana Laura , Parra-Bracamonte Gaspar Manuel
Published: August 2022

BackgroundLactoferrin (LTF) is an iron-binding glycoprotein found in milk and other exocrine secretion with antibacterial activity proposed as an alternative to mastitis treatment or prevention. LTF has been proposed as a candidate gene for mastitis resistance selection. The aim of this paper was to assess LTF promotor to explore variations with potential association to mastitis resistance in dairy cows from Honduras.MethodsA resequencing of promotor and Exon I of LTF gene in extreme mastitis susceptibility cows (126 Holstein and Holstein crossbred) was performed. ResultsEight polymorphisms were found in promotor region, four of them were novel variations. Two were important by frequency among extreme groups, but a polymorphism in -421 A/T position was significantly (P=0.0188) associated to mastitis susceptibility. ConclusionResults support the key role of regulatory region of LTF gene. Some candidate genes are proposed in association with mastitis traits and implications are discussed.
Electron Impact Ionization Cross-sections of CH3 and SiH3 Radicals Targets﻿
Authors: Kumar Manoj
Published: August 2022

Single differential cross sections as a function of secondary electron energy at fixed incident electron energies 100 and 200 eV for the targeted molecule CH3 and SiH3 have been evaluated by using a modified Jain-Khare semiempirical approach. The integral or total electron-impact ionization cross-sections and the averaged secondary electron energy from differential ionization cross sections are calculated for incident electron energy from ionization threshold to 5 keV regime. The temperature dependent ionization rate coefficient is also calculated using total ionization cross-sections and Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution of electron energy. The calculated values of total ionization cross sections corresponding to (e, 2e) processes for CH3 and SiH3 molecules are in good accord with available theoretical and experimental results.
Investigation on Optimization of Mechanical Properties of Bagasse Reinforced Epoxy Composite Using Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: KUMAR D K MOHAN , UDAIYAKUMAR K C
Published: August 2022

In this present study, the fabrication of polymer composite matrix has been designed using the epoxy matrix and bagasse fibre. The most crucial operating parameters such as chemical treatment, volume fraction of fibre content, concentration of chemical, and soaking hours of fibre in the chemical were evaluated. Based on these parameters, the outcomes such as tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, hardness, inter laminar shear strength, and coefficient of friction were measured and evaluated. The optimization of all the operating parameters against the various outcome parameters has been performed by Grey relational analysis. The analysis assist in making decision to select the best optimum parameters by assigning the rank for the combined mechanical properties with respect to different operating input variables. The optimum combination of operating parameters determined was (i) chemical treatment – KMnO4 (ii) Volume fraction of fibre content – 30 wt % (iii) Concentration of chemical – 7% and (iv) soaking hours of fibre – 6 hours.
Extended endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery with total cyst wall decollement for suprasellar cystic craniopharyngioma
Authors: Liu Jie , Wang Junwei , Wang Pan , Tang Chao , Jiang Haotian , Zhang Gang , Tan Xiaorong , Pan Jinyu , Wu Nan
Published: August 2022

Background: For most cystic craniopharyngiomas, intracapsular debulking is a good strategy to get a large operation space and protect vital structures. However, this surgical strategy may lead to the residual and recurrence of the tumor capsule wall. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new surgical strategy without residual capsule walls for the removal of cystic craniopharyngiomas.Case Report: We reviewed a 45-year-old male with vision loss and visual field defects, whose head MRI revealed a suprasellar cystic lesion. The patient underwent extended endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery. The surgical strategy of total cystic wall decollement was adopted, which was that the lesion surrounded by the capsule was completely separated from the surrounding tissue without destroying the capsule and maintaining the tension of the capsule. The lesion was totally resected and pathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of craniopharyngioma. After the operation, both the visual acuity and pituitary function were significantly improved. In addition, he suffered from transient diabetes insipidus, which was subsequently relieved. During the 33-month follow-up, there was no tumor recurrence. Conclusion: Compared with the traditional surgical strategy of intracapsular debulking, the surgical strategy of total cystic wall decollement has the advantages of less residual tumor capsule, low tumor recurrence rate, etc. Therefore, for cystic craniopharyngiomas with an intact capsule or even other cystic tumors with an intact capsule, the surgical strategy of total cystic wall decollement may be an effective surgical strategy to reduce tumor recurrence.
Fatal pneumonitis associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a study based on 128 cohorts with 26,994 participants
Authors: Wu Chunlan , Wan Luying , Xie Xianhe
Published: August 2022

Background: With the widespread application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the immune-related adverse events (irAEs) were increasingly reported. Checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP) was a frequent irAE with high mortality. Hence it is crucial to estimate the frequency and susceptible factors of fatal CIP.Methods: PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies that assessed fatal CIP. Primary endpoints were the incidence and susceptible factors of fatal CIP.Results: A total of 173 cases of fatal CIP occurred in 128 cohorts. The overall incidence was 0.96% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80-1.14%]. The odds and incidence were remarkably higher in hematologic malignancy group (compared with solid tumors) [3.86 vs. 0.90, odds ratio (OR): 2.41, 95% CI: 1.10-5.28, P=0.028], and in ≥2 line treatment group (compared with first line treatment group) [1.29 vs. 0.74, OR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.24-2.44, P=0.001]. Meanwhile, the frequency was significantly decreased in phase Ⅲ trial group (compared with that of phase Ⅰ/Ⅱ trial group) [ 0.56 vs. 1.69 , OR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.26-0.53, P＜0.0001].Conclusions: The overall incidence of fatal CIP was 0.96%. The susceptible factors of fatal CIP were hematologic malignancy, phase Ⅰ/Ⅱ trial, and ≥2 line treatment group. The study provided a capability for clinicians to predict and discriminate high-risk populations of fatal CIP.
Leukoencephalopathy in Patients with Brain Metastases Who Received Radiosurgery With or Without Whole Brain Radiotherapy
Authors: Liu Chan-Wei , Yang Huai-Che , Chiang Chi-Lu , Shen Chia-I , Wu Hsiu-Mei , Luo Yung-Hung , Hu Yong-Sin , Lin Chung-Jung , Chung Wen-Yuh , Shiau Cheng-Ying , Guo Wan-Yuo , Pan Hung-Chi , Lee Cheng-Chia
Published: August 2022

BackgroundWhole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) for brain metastases (BMs) is a common cause of radiation-induced leukoencephalopathy; however the safety of alternative stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) remains unclear. This study examined the incidence of leukoencephalopathy in patients treated with SRS alone versus WBRT plus SRS for BMs with a focus on the relationship between prognostic factors and leukoencephalopathy.MethodsAnalysis was performed between 2002 and 2021. The total enrollment was 993 patients with the distribution: WBRT plus SRS (n=291) and SRS only (n=702). Leukoencephalopathy was graded from 0 to 3 for changes in white matter indicated by the MRI after WBRT or SRS. Patient characteristics and SRS dosimetric parameters were reviewed to identify factors that contributed to the incidence of leukoencephalopathy or overall survival.ResultsThe incidence of leukoencephalopathy was consistently higher in WBRT plus SRS group than in SRS alone group (p＜0.001). Leukoencephalopathy was also associated with a larger total tumor volume (≧28cm3; p=0.028) and age (＞77 years; p=0.025). Nonetheless, the SRS integral dose to skull in the subgroup of WBRT plus SRS treatment was not demonstrated significance in development of leukoencephalopathy (p=0.986 for integral dose 1-2J, p=0.776 for integral dose＞2J).ConclusionsThis study revealed that SRS is safe for oligo-BMs in terms of leukoencephalopathy development. Patient age and total tumor volume were identified as important factors in assessing the development of leukoencephalopathy. The additional of SRS (even at an integral dose＞2J) did not increase the incidence of leukoencephalopathy.
Nurses’ Barriers to Evidence-Based Practice in Palliative Care
Authors: Dakka Falah Jamal
Published: August 2022

Background
Research shows low EBP uptake among palliative care nurses, which is a global concern because the demand for palliative care services is rising, raising the urgent need to improve healthcare quality. Promoting EBP uptake in palliative care can improve healthcare quality. This systematic review investigated nurses’ barriers to EBP implementation in palliative care.
Method
PubMed and Google Scholar were used to identify six articles. Articles were included for review if published within the past ten years (English-only) and investigated barriers to EBP implementation in palliative care.
Results
Four barriers were identified: (a) time and resource constraints, (b) lack of readiness for organisational change, (c) negative attitudes towards palliative care, and (d) process-specific difficulties.
Conclusion
The findings of this systematic review can be used to inform policy changes to improve the uptake of EBP in palliative care.
Reflections on conducting Peer-Led Qualitative Research in British Columbia, Canada during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mehta Amiti , Fleury Mathew , Spence Heather , Lamb Jessica , McDougall Jenny , Buxton Jane A
Published: August 2022

In the province of British Columbia, illicit drug toxicity (overdose) deaths have increased during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Prior evidence suggests that engagement of people with lived and living experience (PWLLE) of substance use, often referred to as peers, in research and policy development is essential to ensure the development of comprehensive and relevant harm reduction interventions addressing the requirements of the PWLLE. Public health measures introduced due to COVID-19 have intensified barriers in engaging PWLLE in research settings. This article presents the challenges encountered in conducting peer-led research in BC and the ways in which these challenges were addressed in the context of a province-wide research project initiated by the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control.
Exploring the Evolution of the Topics and Emerging Trends of MRI in Breast Cancer: A Bibliometric Analysis From 2000 to 2021
Authors: Su Yanbing , Cao Yujuan , Xing Jun , Li Hui , Guo Dongqiang
Published: August 2022

Objective: This study aims to provide a systematic and complete knowledge map for research trend and collaboration status within the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and breast cancer.Methods: Using the WOS database, 6640 articles were obtained through search strategies which were published from 2000 to 2021 in the field of MRI and breast cancer. The exported data were analyzed utilizing specific parameters with the help of bibliometric and science mapping software: VOSviewer and Gephi.Results: The publication output in the field of MRI and breast cancer growth steadily over the past two decades and it varied from different countries with the USA being far ahead of other countries. The paper output and international collaboration are mainly distributed in some countries like the USA, China and Germany. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco and MD Anderson Cancer Center have high academic influence in the field of MRI and breast cancer. Keywords mining reveals that deep learning, radiomics, convolutional neural network, artificial intelligence, nomogram, machine learning and radiogenomics are the research hotspots in the MRI and breast cancer related literature in recent years.Conclusion: This bibliometric study used a massive volume of bibliographic data to decipher the develop status, research collaboration, along with the research frontier and hotspot in the field of MRI and breast cancer. In this way, we provide insights into overall landscape of the literature and locate pertinent information for research interests of related scholars.
Geographical restriction and body size variation in two sibling species of flower-breeding Drosophila
Authors: Firdaus Anggun Sausan , Lin Yu-Wei , You Kai-An , Negi Ateesha , Kurniawan Nia , Wicaksono Karuniawan Puji , Tarno Hagus , Yeh Shu-Dan
Published: August 2022

Background:Variations in body size and body melanization are thought to be important features for local adaptation of environmental stresses in many insects and latitudinal clines of such variation have been found many taxa. When two species share similar resource, ecological divergence and niche partitioning may further evolve as the consequence of competition. Here, we examined the distribution, host plant usage, and body size variation of two closely-related species, Drosophila elegans, which has two discrete body color morphs, and D. gunungcola on three islands. Results:The brown morph of D. elegans has a similar distribution to D. gunungcola in Java and Sumatra, whereas the black morph of D. elegans is exclusively found in Taiwan. A significant correlation between latitudes and altitudes was found in sites where D. gunungcola was found in Sumatra south of equator. The brown morph of D. elegans was found to be smaller in body size and tends to live in warmer habitat compared to the black morph of D. elegans and D. gunungcola. A significant genetic correlation between body color and body size was found in recombinant inbred lines derived from hybrids of brown and black morph strains.Conclusions:The restricted distribution of D. gunungcola in Southern hemisphere coincides with the lack of highland habitat near the equator. Four plant species were found to be exclusively utilized by D. elegans only in Taiwan whereas the same flower species are shared by both fly species in Java and Sumatra, suggesting the presence of inter-specific competition for breeding sites in overlapping zones. Darker body coloration with larger body size appears to have evolved twice in this lineage, reflecting similar patterns of natural selection in Indonesia and postglacial Taiwan.
Combinatory anti-tumor activities of AQ4 and temsirolimus against colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Okamoto Kazuaki , Nozawa Hiroaki , Sonoda Hirofumi , Kaneko Manabu , Ishihara Soichiro
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Banoxantrone is a topoisomerase II inhibitor that is selectively activated in hypoxia. Although it has exhibited anti-tumor activity against several types of cancers in preclinical models, its efficacy against colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear.Methods: We examined the antitumor effects of AQ4, an activated metabolite of banoxantrone, in CRC cell lines (HT-29, CaR-1) using in vitro experiments under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. The inhibition of cell growth was assessed using a proliferation assay. The induction of apoptosis and changes in the cell cycle were measured using flow cytometry. Signaling pathways involved in apoptosis and hypoxia were analyzed. The anti-tumor activity of temsirolimus, an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin, and the combined effects of temsirolimus and AQ4 were also evaluated.Results: Regardless of the oxygen condition, a single drug treatment with AQ4 or temsirolimus inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in both cell lines, accompanied by a reduction in the phosphorylation of S6. AQ4 induced G2/M cell cycle arrest, whereas temsirolimus induced G0/G1 arrest. Moreover, the combined treatment markedly reduced the proportion of cells in the S phase and enhanced apoptosis, as evidenced by an increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. The hypoxia-induced activation of the HIF-1α pathway was suppressed by AQ4 and temsirolimus.Conclusion: Based on the cooperative anti-tumor activity of AQ4 and temsirolimus in vitro, the combination of banoxantrone plus temsirolimus has potential as a treatment option for CRC in preclinical and clinical settings.
Novel 3D Stochastic Modeling of Fracture Initiation and Propagation during Multiphase Fluid Flow in Fractured Media
Authors: Dulian
Published: August 2022

A complex concept of the propagation of fractures in carbonate or shale reservoirs means that their start and propagation during production are not given much consideration. A quantitative measurement of propagation in reservoir simulators is essential. Stochastic data, such as boundary conditions, pressure, viscosity, and other aiming functions, amplify this finding. The regime of multiphase flow further complicates but also challenges the question in terms of formulation. That is precisely the topic of this research, which is to say the crack network configurations as they propagate in time with random inputs, starting with stochastic optimum control. A known issue in fractured rocks is the Brinkman model, which contains parts where the Darcy flow predominates and areas where the Stokes flow predominate. Once we've developed our flow model in fractured rocks, we'll use energy minimization procedures to further refine it. Because of its robustness, our approach takes a little time to calculate. As this handicap is "reduced," it will be easier to put this model into practice at the Darcy scale in the future.
Carbon footprint effects of Japan’s ban on new fossil fuel vehicles from 2035
Authors: Kito Minami , Nakamoto Yuya , Kagawa Shigemi , Hienuki Shunichi , Hubacek Klaus
Published: August 2022

Despite the increase in vehicle electrification in recent years, the transport sector is still a major contributor to the rise in global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Using dynamic product lifecycle (LC) models, our study analyzes the relationship between lifecycle CO2 (LC-CO2) emissions and the proportion of electric vehicle sales in Japan. We consider the contributions of fuel efficiency and vehicle lifetime to LC-CO2 emissions in three scenarios: changes in sales, improvement in fuel efficiency, and changes in vehicles’ lifetimes. Our findings show that promoting electric vehicles and decarbonization of electricity sector will decrease CO2 emissions from the driving phase. However, even if the energy mix follows the net zero emission target, emissions from the vehicle manufacturing phase will largely remain, and the manufacturing emissions from electric vehicle accounts for more than 50% of total emission in 2050 even in the case of the vehicle lifetime is extended by 5 years. Decarbonization of power sector is effective to reduce driving phase emissions, however it is insufficient for reducing LC-CO2 emissions. Thus, for reducing LC-CO2 emissions including the manufacturing phase, the Japanese government need to focus on the decarbonization of supply chain as well as reducing the driving phase emissions.
Role of aortopexy in the treatment of aberrant innominate artery in children
Authors: Isik Onur , Akyuz Muhammet , Ozcifci Gokcen , Durak Fatih , Mercan Ilker , Anıl Ayse Berna
Published: August 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the surgical and follow-up outcomes in children who operated for aberrant innominate artery.Methods: A total of 15 consecutive patients (12 males, 3 females; mean age 16.3 ± 19.0 months; range 3 months to 6 years) who underwent aortopexy between February 2018 and December 2021 were evaluated. Demographic data, preoperative and postoperative clinical status and postoperative outcomes were retrospectively analyzed.Results: The mean age at operation was 16.3 ± 19.0 months. The median weight was 8.3 kg (range, 7–14.5 kg).There was no complications at intraoperative period.The mean percent degree of tracheal stenosis was 0.68 ± 0.12. The median (range) MV duration, PICU stay, and ward stay of the patients were 2 hours (0–3 hours), 2.5 days (1-4 days), and 5 days (3–8 days), respectively. The mean patients’ number of emergency service applications and hospitalization at the preoperative period was 6.2 ± 3.9 / 2.3 ± 1.6 and, at the postoperative period was 3.3 ± 2.2/ 0.9 ± 0.8. In comparison of the preoperative and postoperative service application number and hospitalization number, there was significant difference (p<0.005 and 0.006 respectively). No reoperation was required. There was no mortality. Conclusion: Aberrant innominate artery is rarely seen. These pathologies misdiagnosis with different reactive airways. Following the diagnosis, treatment can be achieved by surgery successfully.
Effect of the Duration of Membership in the GATT/WTO on Economic Growth Volatility
Authors: GNANGNON Sèna Kimm
Published: August 2022

This article investigates the effect of the duration of membership in the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) on economic growth volatility. Using an unbalanced panel dataset of 153 countries over the period 1980-2019, the empirical analysis has revealed that the duration of membership in the GATT/WTO has been associated with lower economic growth volatility, with this negative effect being larger in member states that were subject to rigorous accession procedures than in other member states. More importantly, the membership duration has exerted a larger negative economic growth volatility effect in countries that further upgrade their export products. These findings complement the existing works on the strong positive effect of the membership in the GATT/WTO on economic growth, by shedding light on the importance of that membership (and notably the duration of the membership) for dampening economic growth volatility.
Selection and impact of leading edge on boundary layer transition
Authors: Bhatia Dinesh Devraj , Yadav Devinder , Yang Guangjun , Wang Jian
Published: August 2022

The choice of leading edge aspect ratio (AR) plays a crucial role when planning boundary layer experimental wind tunnel tests on a flat plate. Poor selection of the leading-edge profile hampers the effectiveness of the experiment and increases testing costs associated with interchanging of leading edges to attain accurate results. Thus, the appropriate selection of the leading edge is a very crucial part of the wind tunnel experimental process. The authors, in this paper, argue that the curvature of the leading edge and thus the AR are of paramount importance to attain accurate results from wind tunnel testing. In this paper, the authors have tested 7 different elliptical leading edges and compared their performance with an ideal leading edge with zero thickness. Experimental and computational has been presented for leading edges ranging from AR6 to AR20. Results were evaluated for boundary layer transition onset location and it was found that AR20 has the least influence on the flow structure when compared the ideal leading edge. A study of the flow structure at the stagnation point indicates an increase in adverse pressure gradient with an increase in the AR but also a decrease in the size of the stagnation region. The presence of a higher AR leading edge reduces the turbulent spot production rate which is one of the primary causes of boundary layer transition. The authors have presented a correlation which makes it easier for aerodynamicists to quantify the impact of the leading-edge AR on transition. A case is also presented to compare the relative performance of a wedge and the higher AR leading edge which gives potential researchers the choice between an elliptical or a wedge-shaped leading edge.
From replica symmetry to metastability in random constraint satisfaction problems
Authors:   , Ravelomanana Jean Bernoulli
Published: August 2022

This thesis concerns three specific constraint satisfaction problems: the k-SAT problem, random linear equations and the Potts model. We investigated a phenomenon called replica symmetry, its consequences and its limitation. For the $k$-SAT problem, we were able to show that replica symmetry holds up to a threshold $d^{*}$. However, after another critical threshold $d^{**}$, we discovered that replica symmetry could not hold anymore, which enabled us to establish the existence of a replica symmetry breaking region. For the random linear problem, a peculiar phenomenon occurs. We observed that a more robust version of replica symmetry (strong replica symmetry) holds up to a threshold $d=e$ and ceases to hold after. This phenomenon is linked to the fact that before the threshold $d=e$, the fraction of frozen variables, i.e. variable forced to take the same value in all solutions, is concentrated around a deterministic value but vacillates between two values with equal probability for $d>e$. Lastly, for the Potts model, we show that a phenomenon called metastability occurs. The latter phenomenon can be understood as a consequence of trivial replica symmetry breaking scheme. This metastability phenomenon further produces slow mixing results for two famous Markov chains, the Glauber and the Swendsen-Wang dynamics.
LONG-TERM OUTCOMES OF TUBERCULOUS PLEURISY TREATMENT WITH REGARD TO DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUE USED FOR PLEURAL EFFUSION SYNDROME DIAGNOSIS
Authors: Duzhyi Ihor D. , Oleshchenko Halyna P. , Psarova Valentyna H.
Published: August 2022

Introduction. Despite the overall positive epidemiological trend, the burden of tuberculosis in Ukraine remains significant. The most common form of extrapulmonary TB is tuberculous pleurisy. The share of the latter in the structure of all tuberculosis forms is within 10–12% or more. The clinical picture of specific pleurisy is diverse, so its diagnosis is often complicated and ultimately leads to various negative consequences. The authors suggested using a diagnostic system based on ultrasound findings to detect pleural effusion syndrome.
Methods. We examined 329 patients with tuberculous pleurisy, who were divided into two groups. There were 142 subjects in the main group and 187 subjects in the comparison group. The radiodiagnostic examination was based on traditional chest radiography. The patients of the main group were examined according to the pleural diseases diagnostic algorithm implemented by the fellows of the department (utility model patent of Ukraine No. 114430).
Results. In the long-term period, residual changes (thickening) in the pleural cavity were found in 6.8% of patients in the main group vs. 19.8% of patients in the comparison group (p < 0.05), changes in diaphragmatic skeletopy were observed in 13.5% vs. 25.9%, respectively (p < 0.05), and diaphragmatic mobility disorder – in 5.4% vs. 18.5%, respectively (p < 0.05). Patients with tuberculous pleurisy who had been examined according to the proposed algorithm developed chronic pleurisy 7.1 times less often (1.4% vs. 9.9%, p < 0.05) and pulmonary disease – 2.7 times less often (4.1% vs. 11.1%, respectively, p ˃ 0.05).
Conclusion. Taking into account the early detection of pleural effusion and timely verification of the disease, the proposed diagnostic algorithm for pleural diseases allows to reduce the long-term effects on the chest wall, lungs, and pleura.
CLINICAL AND RADIOGRAPHIC MANIFESTATIONS OF GENERALIZED PERIODONTITIS IN PATIENTS ON THE BACKGROUND OF THE DAMAGE OF CERVICAL INTERVERTEBRAL DISCS
Authors: Kulygina Valentyna М. , Tepla Tamara O. , Pylypiuk Olga Yu. , Povshenyk Anastasiya V. , Goray Maryna A.
Published: August 2022

Introduction. In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the study of the relationship between inflammatory processes in the periodontium and somatic diseases. Systemic processes, in particular, dystrophic lesions of the spine are known to have a significant role, leading to profound changes in the internal environment of the body and structural lesions of the periodontal tissues. The peculiarities of the clinical course of periodontal disease in patients with predominant damage of the cervical intervertebral discs are insufficiently described in the literature and remain relevant.
The aim of this work was to study the features of clinical and radiographic indicators of periodontal tissues condition in patients with concomitant lesions of the intervertebral discs of the cervical spine.
Materials and methods. Clinical and X-ray examination of 74 patients with the damage of cervical intervertebral discs was carried out: 48 persons of late mature age with stage I chronic generalized periodontitis and 26 elderly patients with stage II–III chronic generalized periodontitis. 40 patients of similar age groups and identical periodontal lesions without comorbidities comprised the control group.
Research results. When comparing the clinical symptoms of chronic generalized periodontitis in groups of patients with damage of the intervertebral discs of the cervical spine and without somatic pathology, we revealed: increasing the depth of periodontal pockets and recession of the gums by 12.6% and 34.2% in late mature age subjects and by 10.2% and 16.2% in the elderly; the bleeding index by 19.4% in late mature age subjects and by 38.3% in the elderly; the intensity of exudation from periodontal pockets by 30.3% and 13.5%, respectively, with a high significant difference (p < 0.001). The indicators of furcation in the horizontal and vertical directions according to Tarnow–Fletcher and Hamp, respectively, were also worse in patients with damage of the cervical intervertebral discs. In addition, there was a decrease in the percentage of patients with an initial degree of bone resorption and an increase – with a high degree of bone loss.
Conclusions. The clinical and radiographic study of patients revealed a negative impact of dystrophic lesions of the cervical spine on the clinical course of periodontal diseases, its deepening and burdening.