bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Three-Face Utilized Heat Sink Design for 3-D Integrated 75 kVA Intelligent Power Stage (IPS)
Authors: Mirza Abdul Basit , Xu Xiaoqiang , Emon Asif Imran , Luo Fang , Chen Shikui
Published: December 2022

This paper proposes a three-face utilized heat sink design for a 3-D integrated SiC-based 75 kVA Intelligent Power Stage (IPS). The structure enables maximum utilization of the heat sink where all three faces of the heat sink are utilized to hold the power devices. For loss estimation from power devices, Model Based Optimization (MBO), an efficiency calculation algorithm, is developed to estimate power loss at 75 kVA for the IPS, which needs to be dissipated efficiently by the heat sink. Further for simplified and cost-effective heat sink fabrication, cylindrical holes are considered to replace conventional fins. A parametric analysis is performed using SOLIDWORKS to determine optimum number of holes for efficient heat spreading and airflow. The simulation results show that heat sink based on cylindrical holes is effective in keeping the MOSFET die temperature under 120 °C in continuous operation, with 35% reduction heat sink volume compared with the conventional single-sided cooled design.
Topology Optimization of Heat Sink for 3d Integrated Power Converters
Authors: Xu Xiaoqiang , Mirza Abdul Basit , Gao Lingfeng , Luo Fang , Chen Shikui
Published: December 2022

This paper proposes a density-based topology optimization scheme to design a heat sink for the application of a 3D integrated SIC-based 75 kVA Intelligent Power Stage (IPS). The heat sink design considers the heat conduction and convection effects with forced air cooling. The objective function is to minimize the thermal compliance of the whole structure. A volume constraint is imposed to reduce the overall volume of the designed heat sink to make it conformal to the underlying power devices. Some numerical techniques like filtering and projection schemes are employed to render a crisp design. Some 2D benchmarks examples are first provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Then a 3D heat sink, especially designed for the 3D IPS, is topologically optimized. The classic tree-like structure is reproduced to reinforce the convection effect. Some comparisons with the intuitive baseline designs are made through numerical simulation. The optimized heat sinks are shown to provide a more efficient cooling performance for the 3D integrated power converter assembly.
Principal Component Analysis can Be Used to Discriminate Between Elite and Sub-Elite Kicking Performance
Authors: Vagner Michal , Cleather Daniel J. , Kubový Petr , Hojka Vladimír , Stastny Petr
Published: December 2022

Contemporary descriptions of motor control suggest that variability in movement can be indicative of skilled or unskilled performance. Here we used principal component analysis to study the kicking performance of elite and sub-elite soldiers who were highly familiar with the skill in order to compare the variability in the first and second principal components. The subjects kicked a force plate under a range of loaded conditions, and their movement was recorded using optical motion capture. The first principal component explained >92% of the variability across all kinematic variables when analyzed separately for each condition, and both groups and explained more of the variation in the movement of the elite group. There was more variation in the loading coefficient of the first principal component for the sub-elite group. In contrast, for the second principal component, there was more variation in the loading coefficient for the elite group, and the relative magnitude of the variation was greater than for the first principal component for both groups. These results suggest that the first principal component represented the most fundamental movement pattern, and there was less variation in this mode for the elite group. In addition, more of the variability was explained by the hip than the knee angle entered when both variables were entered into the same PCA, which suggests that the movement is driven by the hip.
Reconnection-driven energy cascade in magnetohydrodynamic turbulence
Authors: Dong Chuanfei , Wang Liang , Huang Yi-Min , Comisso Luca , Sandstrom Timothy A. , Bhattacharjee Amitava
Published: December 2022

Magnetohydrodynamic turbulence regulates the transfer of energy from large to small scales in many astrophysical systems, including the solar atmosphere. We perform three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic simulations with unprecedentedly large magnetic Reynolds number to reveal how rapid reconnection of magnetic field lines changes the classical paradigm of the turbulent energy cascade. By breaking elongated current sheets into chains of small magnetic flux ropes (or plasmoids), magnetic reconnection leads to a previously undiscovered range of energy cascade, where the rate of energy transfer is controlled by the growth rate of the plasmoids. As a consequence, the turbulent energy spectra steepen and attain a spectral index of −2.2 that is accompanied by changes in the anisotropy of turbulence eddies. The omnipresence of plasmoids and their consequences on, for example, solar coronal heating, can be further explored with current and future spacecraft and telescopes.
Complete Genome Sequences of Three Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Strains Isolated from Traditional Iranian Raw Milk Motal Cheese
Authors: Fatemizadeh Saeideh Sadat , Krych Lukasz , Castro-Mejía Josue L. , Stefanova Denitsa Vladimirova , Kot Witold , Habibi Najafi Mohammad Bagher , Nielsen Dennis Sandris
Published: December 2022

The complete genome sequences, as determined by a combination of short- and long-read sequencing, of three
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
strains (M8, M17, and M19) that were isolated from Iranian motal cheese are reported. The genome sizes were estimated to be 3.3, 3.3, and 3.5 Mbp, respectively, with GC contents of approximately 44.5%.
Evolution and Introductions of Influenza A Virus H1N1 in a Farrow-to-Finish Farm in Guatemala
Authors: Ortiz Lucia , Geiger Ginger , Ferreri Lucas , Moran David , Alvarez Danilo , Gonzalez-Reiche Ana Silvia , Mendez Dione , Rajao Daniela , Cordon-Rosales Celia , Perez Daniel R.
Published: December 2022

Despite increased surveillance efforts, the epidemiology of FLUAVs circulating in swine in Latin America remains understudied. For instance, the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic strain (H1N1 pdm09) emerged in Mexico, but its circulation remained undetected in pigs.
Absenteeism in primary health centres in Nigeria: leveraging power, politics and kinship
Authors: Odii Aloysius , Onwujekwe Obinna , Hutchinson Eleanor , Agwu Prince , Orjiakor Charles Tochukwu , Ogbozor Pamela , Roy Pallavi , McKee Martin , Balabanova Dina
Published: December 2022

Background

Primary health centres (PHCs) in Nigeria suffer critical shortages of health workers, aggravated by chronic absenteeism that has been attributed to insufficient resources to govern the system and adequately meet their welfare needs. However, the political drivers of this phenomenon are rarely considered. We have asked how political power and networks influence absenteeism in the Nigerian health sector, information that can inform the development of holistic solutions.

Methods

Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with three health administrators, 30 health workers and 6 health facility committee chairmen in 15 PHCs in Enugu State, Nigeria. Our analysis explored how political configurations and the resulting distribution of power influence absenteeism in Nigeria’s health systems.

Results

We found that health workers leverage social networks with powerful and politically connected individuals to be absent from duty and escape sanctions. This reflects the dominant political settlement. Thus, the formal governance structures that are meant to regulate the operations of the health system are weak, thereby allowing powerful individuals to exert influence using informal means. As a result, health managers do not confront absentees who have a relationship with political actors for fear of repercussions, including retaliation through informal pressure. In addition, we found that while health system structures cannot effectively handle widespread absenteeism, networks of local actors, when interested and involved, could address absenteeism by enabling health managers to call politically connected staff to order.

Conclusion

The formal governance mechanisms to reduce absenteeism are insufficient, and building alliances (often informal) with local elites interested in improving service delivery locally may help to reduce interference by other powerful actors.
Efficacy and safety of adalimumab for inflammatory flare prevention in paediatric non-infectious anterior uveitis with peripheral retinal vascular leakage: a study protocol for a single-centre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Song Hang , Zhao Chan , Zhang Yuelun , Li Donghui , Qian Yujing , Gao Fei , Xiao Junyan , Zhang Meifen
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Paediatric patients with chronic anterior uveitis are more prone to suffer from the chronic course of intraocular inflammation and adverse effects of long-term immunomodulatory therapy, either topical glucocorticosteroids or systemic immunomodulatory agents. The performance of adalimumab has been shown to be fairly favourable in treating refractory non-infectious uveitis, but the detailed indication is still under investigation. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of adalimumab for inflammatory flare prevention in non-infectious paediatric anterior uveitis with peripheral retinal vascular leakage, compared with methotrexate.

Methods and analysis

Children weighed ≥30 kg and aged between 4 and 16 years old with active non-infectious anterior uveitis with peripheral retinal vascular leakage on ultra-wildfield fluorescein fundus angiography will be included. They will be treated with a predesigned inflammatory control regimen to reach inflammatory quiescence in 1 month. After that they will be treated with either methotrexate 10 mg once a week or adalimumab once every 2 weeks and regularly followed up for 6 months. The primary endpoint is uveitis flare defined as defined as anterior chamber cell count grading increased from 0 to 1 within the observation period.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China (Approved protocol V3, dated 27 July 2021. Approval number 25-ZS-3062) and has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Written informed consent will be collected from every patient and their guardians prior to study participation. The results of this trial will be presented at local and international meetings and submitted to peer-reviewed journals for publication.

Trial registration number

NCT05015335.
Prevalence estimates of trafficking in persons using statistical definitions: a cross-sectional high-risk community survey in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Price Rumi Kato , Bender Annah K , Milazzo Floriana H , Rich Edna G. , Roman Nicolette V. , Zhang Sheldon X , Koegler Erica L
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Current research on trafficking in persons (TIP) relies heavily on legal and prosecutorial definitions. A public health approach has called for population-level assessment; however, identification of TIP victims lacks a standardised operational definition. This study applied the Prevalence Reduction Innovation Forum (PRIF) statistical definitions, developed by the US Department of State, to a community survey in Cape Town, South Africa.

Designs

A high-risk sampling strategy was used. TIP screening questions from two instruments were matched with PRIF domain indicators to generate prevalence estimates. Sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristics analyses were conducted to assess the performance of the two screeners.

Setting

Cross-sectional survey conducted in Cape Town, South Africa, from January to October 2021.

Participants

South Africans and immigrants from other nations residing in Cape Town and its surrounding areas, aged 18 or older, who met the study inclusion criteria for a set of experiences that were identified as TIP risk factors.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcome measures were PRIF lifetime and past 12-month TIP positivity. Secondary outcome measures included individual and summary measures from the two screeners.

Results

Our PRIF algorithm yielded a TIP lifetime prevalence rate of 17.0% and past 12-month rate of 2.9%. Summary measures from each TIP screener showed an excellent range of predictive utility. The summary screener measures yielded statistically significant differences among some demographic and background categories. Several screener items were shown less predictive of the PRIF statistical definition criteria than others.

Conclusions

Prevalence estimates of probable TIP were higher than those reported elsewhere. Our TIP screeners yielded an excellent range of predictive utility for the statistical definitions, promising the potential for wider applications in global and regional TIP research and policymaking. A more systematic sampling strategy is needed even if statistical definitions become widely used.
Development of ductility-related modification factor for CLT-coupled wall buildings with replaceable shear link coupling beams
Authors: Teweldebrhan Biniam Tekle , Popovski Marjan , McFadden Jasmine B.W. , Tesfamariam Solomon
Published: December 2022

The desire of using sustainable materials has reignited the interest in timber-based construction. Researchers and practitioners are developing novel timber-based structural solutions. Cross-laminated timber (CLT)-coupled wall is a recently proposed system for potential use in mid- and high-rise timber construction. The National Building Code of Canada, however, does not include this system and, consequently, the seismic force modification factors are not available. This study evaluated the ductility-related force modification factor ( Rd) using the FEMA P-695 procedure. Nine archetype buildings were designed considering different design parameters: building storey height, CLT wall configuration, and coupling ratios. Using 30 ground motion records (bi-directional), rigorously selected for seismicity of Vancouver, BC, Canada, incremental dynamic analyses were performed. Collapse margin ratios were calculated to assess the adequacy of the trial Rd factors. Using an over-strength factor of 1.5, Rd = 4 is found to be acceptable for this system.
Evaluation of acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicides for red sorrel (Rumex acetosellaL.) management in lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifoliumAiton)
Authors: White Scott N.
Published: December 2022

Red sorrel is a common herbaceous perennial weed species in lowbush blueberry fields that may be managed with acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicides. Greenhouse and field experiments were established to determine the crop tolerance and potential efficacy on red sorrel of tribenuron-methyl, nicosulfuron + rimsulfuron, foramsulfuron, flazasulfuron, pyroxsulam, and halosulfuron-methyl. Ramet density of greenhouse-grown red sorrel plants established from root fragments was reduced by tribenuron-methyl, flazasulfuron, and pyroxsulam, though tribenuron-methyl and flazasulfuron were the most consistently effective herbicides under field conditions. Spring non-bearing year tribenuron-methyl and flazasulfuron applications reduced both non-bearing and bearing year total red sorrel ramet density and reduced non-bearing year red sorrel flowering ramet and seedling density without injuring lowbush blueberry. Fall non-bearing year tribenuron-methyl and flazasulfuron applications reduced bearing year red sorrel total and flowering ramet density, and this application timing should be evaluated further to improve understanding of crop injury risks. Fall bearing year tribenuron-methyl and flazasulfuron applications reduced non-bearing year red sorrel total and flowering ramet density but did not reduce seedling density. Nicosulfuron + rimsulfuron, foramsulfuron, pyroxsulam, and halosulfuron-methyl efficacy on red sorrel were inconsistent or limited, and these herbicides are not recommended for red sorrel management in lowbush blueberry.
Extensions of i-reversible rings
Authors: Bhabani Lama Vivek , Suhas B N , Mazumdar Susobhan , DSouza Raisa
Published: December 2022

A ring [Formula: see text] is said to be i-reversible if for every [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text][Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is a nonzero idempotent implies [Formula: see text] is an idempotent. It is known that the rings [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] (the ring of all upper triangular matrices over [Formula: see text]) are not i-reversible for [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we provide a nontrivial i-reversible subring of [Formula: see text] when [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] has only trivial idempotents. We further provide a maximal i-reversible subring of [Formula: see text] for each [Formula: see text], if [Formula: see text] is a field. We then give conditions for i-reversibility of trivial, Dorroh and Nagata extensions. Finally, we give some independent sufficient conditions for i-reversibility of polynomial rings, and more generally, of skew polynomial rings.
WAGE-RISE CONTRACT AND MIXED COURNOT DUOPOLY COMPETITION WITH PROFIT-MAXIMIZING AND SOCIALLY CONCERNED FIRMS
Authors: OHNISHI KAZUHIRO
Published: December 2022

This paper investigates a Cournot game model with a nonlinear demand function where a profit-maximizing firm competes against a socially concerned firm. The timing of the game is as follows. In stage one, each firm non-cooperatively decides whether to offer a wage-rise contract policy (WRCP) as a strategic commitment device. In stage two, after observing the rival’s decision in stage one, each firm non-cooperatively chooses its actual output. This paper presents the equilibrium solutions of the model.
Improved Calculation Method of TAD for Intertrochanteric Fractures
Authors: Wang Jialong , Long Anhua , Wang Xuefei , Zhang Yakui , Han Dacheng
Published: December 2022

Purpose. To investigate the relative position of femur fixed screws using intramedullary systems for intertrochanteric fractures and to improve the accurate measurement method of the tip-to-apex distance (TAD) while providing a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of such fractures. Methods. In the anteroposterior (AP) radiographs of the hip joint, the femoral neck axis through the femoral head geometry point was designated as the X-axis, while the line perpendicular to the X-axis passing through the femoral head geometry point was designated as the Y-axis. In the lateral radiographs of the hip joint, the line perpendicular to the X-axis passing through the femoral head geometry point was identified as the Z-axis. The head of the nail tip’s location projected on the three axes was described as AAP, B in the AP radiographs; and ALAT, C in the lateral radiograph. The TAD was described as XAP and XLAT. The radius of the femoral head was D. All distance units were expressed in mm. Results. When the lateral projection angle was standardized, the AAP was equal to the ALAT, while the

X

A
P

2

=

B
2

+

D
−

A

A
P

2

 
a
n
d
 

X

L
A
T

2

=

C
2

+

D
−

A

L
A
T

2

. When the lateral projection angle was not standardized, the value of C had no significant change; however, the

D
−

A

L
A
T

value changed. Conclusions. The measurement value did not match the actual values of TAD when the lateral projection angle was not standardized, possibly leading to a misinterpretation during clinical work. The XLAT should be amended using the formula

X

L
A
T

2

=

C
2

+

D
−

A

A
P

2

.
A Nomogram Based on CT Radiomics and Clinical Risk Factors for Prediction of Prognosis of Hypertensive Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Fang Caiyun , An Xiao , Li Kejian , Zhang Juntao , Shang Hui , Jiao Tianyu , Zeng Qingshi
Published: December 2022

Purpose. To develop and validate a clinical-radiomics nomogram based on clinical risk factors and CT radiomics feature to predict hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH) prognosis. Methods. A total of 195 patients with HICH treated in our hospital from January 2018 to January 2022 were retrospectively enrolled and randomly divided into two cohorts for training (n = 138) and validation (n = 57) according to the ratio of 7 : 3. All CT radiomics features were extracted from intrahematomal, perihematomal, and combined intra- and perihematomal regions by using free open-source software called 3D slicer. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method was used to select the optimal radiomics features, and the radiomics score (Rad-score) was calculated. The relationship between Rad-score, clinical risk factors, and the HICH prognosis was analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, and the clinical-radiomics nomogram was built. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the performance of the clinical-radiomics nomogram in predicting the prognosis of HICH. Results. A total of 1702 radiomics features were extracted from the CT images of each patient for analysis. By univariate and stepwise multivariate logistic regression analyses, age, sex, RBC, serum glucose, D-dimer level, hematoma volume, and midline shift were clinical risk factors for the prognosis of HICH. Rad-score and clinical risk factors developed the clinical-radiomics nomogram. The nomogram showed the highest predictive efficiency in the training cohort (AUC = 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.92 to 0.98) and the validation cohort (AUC = 0.90, 95% CI, 0.82 to 0.98). The calibration curve indicated that the clinical-radiomics nomogram had good calibration. DCA showed that the nomogram had high applicability in clinical practice. Conclusions. The clinical-radiomics nomogram incorporated with the radiomics features and clinical risk factors has good potential in predicting the prognosis of HICH.
MinimuMM-seq: Genome Sequencing of Circulating Tumor Cells for Minimally Invasive Molecular Characterization of Multiple Myeloma Pathology
Authors: Dutta Ankit K. , Alberge Jean-Baptiste , Lightbody Elizabeth D. , Boehner Cody J. , Dunford Andrew , Sklavenitis-Pistofidis Romanos , Mouhieddine Tarek H. , Cowan Annie N. , Su Nang Kham , Horowitz Erica M. , Barr Hadley , Hevenor Laura , Beckwith Jenna B. , Perry Jacqueline , Cao Amanda , Lin Ziao , Kuhr Frank K. , Mastro Richard G. Del , Nadeem Omar , Greipp Patricia T. , Stewart Chip , Auclair Daniel , Getz Gad , Ghobrial Irene M.
Published: December 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) develops from well-defined precursor stages; however, invasive bone marrow (BM) biopsy limits screening and monitoring strategies for patients. We enumerated circulating tumor cells (CTC) from 261 patients (84 monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, 155 smoldering multiple myeloma, and 22 MM), with neoplastic cells detected in 84%. We developed a novel approach, MinimuMM-seq, which enables the detection of translocations and copy-number abnormalities through whole-genome sequencing of highly pure CTCs. Application to CTCs in a cohort of 51 patients, 24 with paired BM, was able to detect 100% of clinically reported BM biopsy events and could replace molecular cytogenetics for diagnostic yield and risk classification. Longitudinal sampling of CTCs in 8 patients revealed major clones could be tracked in the blood, with clonal evolution and shifting dynamics of subclones over time. Our findings provide proof of concept that CTC detection and genomic profiling could be used clinically for monitoring and managing disease in MM.

Significance:

In this study, we established an approach enabling the enumeration and sequencing of CTCs to replace standard molecular cytogenetics. CTCs harbored the same pathognomonic MM abnormalities as BM plasma cells. Longitudinal sampling of serial CTCs was able to track clonal dynamics over time and detect the emergence of high-risk genetic subclones.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 247
Acute Flaccid Paralysis in Australian Children from 2007 to 2017
Authors: Bao Junchao , Nunez Carlos , Elliott Elizabeth , Dinsmore Nicole , McRae Jocelynne , Morris Anne , Blyth Christropher C. , Crawford Nigel , Kynaston Anne , Marshall Helen , Thorley Bruce , McIntyre Peter , Britton Philip N. ,   on behalf of the PAEDS Investigators and APSU Contributors
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance continues globally as part of the World Health Organization’s goal to eradicate poliomyelitis. The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit (APSU), Paediatric Active Enhanced Disease Surveillance (PAEDS) network, and National Enterovirus Reference Laboratory (NERL) collaborate in AFP surveillance in Australia, capturing and reviewing cases of AFP for all aetiologies in order to exclude poliovirus. We aimed to describe the AFP epidemiology in childhood over an 11 year period. Methods: Data were reported nationally by paediatricians via prospective APSU surveillance, PAEDS surveillance nurses at five tertiary paediatric hospitals and NERL from 2007 to 2017. Children aged 0–15 years with AFP were included. We combined APSU, PAEDS, and NERL datasets, analysed epidemiological trends, and described clinical features and investigations for major diagnoses. Results: Of 590 AFP-compatible cases, 49% were male; 47% were aged 0–4 years, 9% aged <1 year. Annual incidence of AFP was 1.3 cases per 100,000 children aged <15 years. Lower limb paralysis was the most frequent presenting symptom. The most frequent diagnoses were Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS; 36%), transverse myelitis (TM; 17%), and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM; 15%). No secular trend was seen in frequency of AFP cases nor amongst major diagnoses. Seasonality was observed with ADEM occurring more frequently in winter. We observed periods of increased AFP frequency in 2013 and 2016, coinciding with increased reporting of non-polio anterior horn cell disease (AHCD) and detection of non-polio enterovirus (NPEV). Conclusions: Estimated incidence of GBS, ADEM, and TM in Australian children was comparable with international rates. There was stable incidence of AFP in Australian children between 2007 and 2017. GBS, ADEM, and TM are the major causes of AFP. We observed clustering of cases associated with NPEV that emphasises a need for ongoing vigilance in surveillance given continue emerging infectious disease threats.
The Contribution and Philosophical Development of the Reformational Philosopher Herman Dooyeweerd and His Conversation with Dirk Vollenhoven
Authors: Ive Jeremy G. A.
Published: December 2022

This article builds on my previous article on Dirk H. Th. Vollenhoven (Ive 2015) and provides an overview of the development of the systematic philosophy of Herman Dooyeweerd. This article seeks to provide an overview of the key developments in the thinking of Dooyeweerd, both in the convergences arising from the conversation of the two brothers-in-law and long-term colleagues and in their divergences. Dooyeweerd and Vollenhoven worked within the tradition of Abraham Kuyper, the father of Reformational philosophy. The development of their respective philosophical systematics has tended to be addressed separately. However, I argue that the close cooperation between the two philosophers was critical in the formulation of the philosophy of the cosmonomic Idea. The philosophical conversation between the two persisted, despite critical divergences, largely aired privately. Their respective insights remained a source of mutual stimulus and complementarity foundational for Reformational philosophy.
The Launch of a New Open-Access French-English Database by the Institut national d’histoire de l’art
Authors: Chatelain Antoine , Guyot Pauline
Published: December 2022

Scholars affiliated with the inha (Institut national d’histoire de l’art) introduce a new open access online database dedicated to collectors, travelers, military personnel, art dealers, and artists who collected Asian art from 1700–1939.
Thermo-Convective Flows of Mono- and Hybrid-Nanofluids Over Horizontal Undulated Surfaces in a Porous Medium
Authors: Saha Richa , Narayana Mahesha , Siddheshwar P. G. , Nagouda Smita S.
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a comparative study between the thermo-convective flows of two mono- and one hybrid-nanofluid over three uniformly heated undulated surfaces (described by sinusoidal, sawtooth or triangular waveforms) embedded in a porous medium. The base fluid for each nanofluid
is water, and the nanoparticles are copper, alumina or a copper-alumina mixture. Two different types of materials of the porous medium have been considered: aluminum foam and glass balls. This problem is governed by a system of nonlinear, coupled partial differential equations, which is solved
using the Keller-Box method. The influences of each porous medium and the pertinent parameters on the nanofluid flows and heat transfer have been explored. It is seen that secondary flow occurs at large amplitudes of the surface undulations for the sinusoidal and triangular waveforms, but
no such flow is observed in the case of the sawtooth waveform and the flat surface. To assess the heat transfer properties, the mean Nusselt number has been calculated. It is observed that the mean Nusselt number is higher in the porous medium of glass balls than aluminum foam. The heat transfer
on the undulated surfaces is the highest in the case of a hybrid-nanofluid and the least for water-alumina.
CD14+/CD31+ monocytes expanded by UM171 correct hemophilia A in zebrafish upon lentiviral gene transfer of factor VIII
Authors: Elnaggar Muhammad , Al-Mohannadi Anjud , Hasan Waseem , Abdelrahman Doua , Al-Kubaisi Mohammed J. , Pavlovski Igor , Gentilcore Giusy , Sathappan Abbirami , Kizhakayil Dhanya , Ali Aesha I. , Mohan Suruchi , Olagunju Damilola , Cugno Chiara , Grivel Jean-Charles , Borsotti Chiara , Follenzi Antonia , Da’as Sahar I. , Deola Sara
Published: December 2022

Emerging gene therapy clinical trials test the correction of hemophilia A (HA) by replacing factor VIII (FVIII) in autologous hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Although it is known that platelets, monocyte/macrophages, and mesenchymal stromal cells can secrete transgenic FVIII, a systematic examination of blood lineages as extrahepatic sources of FVIII, to our knowledge, has not yet been performed. In this study, we sought to provide a comprehensive map of native and lentivirus-based transgenic FVIII production from HSC stage to mature blood cells, through a flow cytometry analysis. In addition, we generated a model of transient HA in zebrafish based on antisense RNA, to assess the corrective potential of the FVIII-transduced HSCs. We discovered that FVIII production begins at the CD34+ progenitor stage after cytokine stimulation in culture. Among all mature white blood cells, monocytes are the largest producers of native FVIII and can maintain protein overexpression during differentiation from HSCs when transduced by a FVIII lentiviral vector. Moreover, the addition of the HSC self-renewal agonist UM171 to CD34+ cells during transduction expanded a subpopulation of CD14+/CD31+ monocytes with excellent ability to carry the FVIII transgene, allowing the correction of HA phenotype in zebrafish. Finally, the HA zebrafish model showed that f8 RNA is predominantly localized in the hematopoietic system at the larval stage, which indicates a potential contributory role of FVIII in hematopoiesis that warrants further investigation. We believe that this study may be of broad interest to hematologists and researchers striving to advance knowledge and permanent treatments for patients with HA.
Speckle-type POZ protein could play a potential inhibitory role in human renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Zhi , Li Zuan , Li Chunlin , Li Bingcai , Wang Haojian , Nong Deyong , Li Ximing , Huang Guihai , Lin Junhao , Li Wei
Published: December 2022

Background

Speckle-type POZ protein(SPOP), a substrate adaptor of Cul3 ubiquitin ligase, plays crucial roles in solid neoplasms by promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of substrates. Limited studies have shown that SPOP is overexpressed in human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tissue. However, the exact role of SPOP in RCC remains unclear and needs to be further elucidated. The present study showed that SPOP was expressed at different levels in different RCC cell lines. The purpose of this study was to explore the roles of SPOP in the biological features of RCC cells and the expression levels of SPOP in human tissue microarray (TMA) and kidney tissues.

Methods

Here, SPOP was overexpressed by lentiviral vector transfection in ACHN and Caki-1 cells, and SPOP was knocked down in Caki-2 cells with similar transfection methods. The transfection efficiency was evaluated by quantitative PCR and western blotting analyses. The role of SPOP in the proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of cell lines was determined by the MTT, wound-healing, transwell and flow cytometry assays. Moreover, the cells were treated with different drug concentrations in proliferation and apoptosis assays to investigate the effect of sunitinib and IFN-α2b on the proliferation and apoptosis of SPOP-overexpressing cells and SPOP-knockdown RCC cells. Finally, immunohistochemical staining of SPOP was performed in kidney tissues and TMAs, which included RCC tissues and corresponding adjacent normal tissues.

Results

Overexpression of SPOP inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion and increased cell apoptosis. Interestingly, sunitinib and IFN-α2b at several concentrations increased the proliferation inhibitory rate and total apoptosis rate of cells overexpressing SPOP. The findings of the present study showed that the SPOP protein was significantly expressed at low levels in most clear cell RCC (ccRCC) tissues and at relatively high levels in the majority of adjacent normal tissues and kidney tissues. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that there was no statistically significant difference in cumulative survival based on the data of different SPOP expression levels in TMA and patients.

Conclusions

In contrast to previous studies, our findings demonstrated that overexpression of SPOP might suppress the progression of RCC cells, which was supported by cell experiments and immunohistochemical staining. SPOP could be a potential tumour inhibitor in RCC.
Notch signaling pathway: a comprehensive prognostic and gene expression profile analysis in breast cancer
Authors: Yousefi Hassan , Bahramy Afshin , Zafari Narges , Delavar Mahsa Rostamian , Nguyen Khoa , Haghi Atousa , Kandelouei Tahmineh , Vittori Cecilia , Jazireian Parham , Maleki Sajad , Imani Danyal , Moshksar Amin , Bitaraf Amirreza , Babashah Sadegh
Published: December 2022

Breast cancer is a complex disease exhibiting a great degree of heterogeneity due to different molecular subtypes. Notch signaling regulates the differentiation of breast epithelial cells during normal development and plays a crucial role in breast cancer progression through the abnormal expression of the Notch up-and down-stream effectors. To date, there are only a few patient-centered clinical studies using datasets characterizing the role of Notch signaling pathway regulators in breast cancer; thus, we investigate the role and functionality of these factors in different subtypes using publicly available databases containing records from large studies. High-throughput genomic data and clinical information extracted from TCGA were analyzed. We performed Kaplan–Meier survival and differential gene expression analyses using the HALLMARK_NOTCH_SIGNALING gene set. To determine if epigenetic regulation of the Notch regulators contributes to their expression, we analyzed methylation levels of these factors using the TCGA HumanMethylation450 Array data. Notch receptors and ligands expression is generally associated with the tumor subtype, grade, and stage. Furthermore, we showed gene expression levels of most Notch factors were associated with DNA methylation rate. Modulating the expression levels of Notch receptors and effectors can be a potential therapeutic approach for breast cancer. As we outline herein, elucidating the novel prognostic and regulatory roles of Notch implicate this pathway as an essential mediator controlling breast cancer progression.
Rare variation: the absence of both the celiac trunk artery and the common hepatic artery
Authors: Zhang Zhenxing , Wang Shan , Ye Minfeng , Tao Feng , Guo Danling
Published: December 2022

Background

Knowledge of celiac trunk anatomy is important in gastrointestinal surgery, hepatopancreatobiliary surgery, transplantation and interventional radiology. Variations in the celiac trunk are common and should be predicted prior to these interventions.

Methods

A 58-year-old woman was admitted to our department for surgical treatment of gastric cancer (GC) confirmed by gastroduodenoscopy and gastric antrum biopsy. In the contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT), we found an absence of both the celiac trunk artery (CA) and the common hepatic artery (CHA). Therefore, we used computerized three-dimensional (3D) vascular reconstruction technology to reconstruct the abdominal trunk and its branch vessels before operation.

Results

Computerized 3D vascular reconstruction confirmed an extremely rare vascular anomaly: the absence of both CA and CHA. The splenic artery (SA) and gastroduodenal artery (GDA) originated from the abdominal aorta (AA). The left gastric artery (LGA) originated from the AA directly above the junction of SA and the GDA. The left hepatic artery (LHA) originated from the left gastric artery (LGA). The right hepatic artery (RHA) originated from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). Laparoscopic radical resection of GC was performed. This anomaly was also confirmed intraoperatively. This patient was discharged on the 10th day after surgery without any postoperative complication. There were no signs of tumor recurrence during the 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion

Correct identification of abnormal abdominal large blood vessels and their relationship with tumors before surgery is of great significance to avoid intraoperative blood vessel damage, major postoperative complications and the missing of lymph node dissection.
The stochastic frontier analysis technique in measuring the technical and economic efficiency of hospital diagnostic laboratories: a case study in Iran
Authors: Aghlmand Siamak , Feizollahzadeh Sadegh , Fathi Behrouz , Yusefzadeh Hasan , Alinejhad Mina
Published: December 2022

An inefficient health system wastes scarce resources even if it makes considerable gains in accountability and equity. Such a system is expected to perform better. Therefore, it is vital to examine the current performance of health systems and their constituents and assess how to reach their maximum potential. This study aimed to evaluate the technical and economic efficiency of medical diagnostic laboratories in hospitals affiliated with Urmia University of Medical Sciences (UUMS) in 2016. In this descriptive-analytical study, data from diagnostic laboratories of the hospitals of UUMS have been inputted into Frontier4.1software after taking the log of variables. Then, the technical and economic efficiency of the laboratories were obtained by estimating the production and cost function using the stochastic frontier analysis method, assuming input minimization for 2016. The mean technical and economic efficiency score of the diagnostic laboratories were determined to be 93.1% and 51.9%, respectively. These laboratories need to reduce their inputs and costs in order to achieve full efficiency without changing the amount of their output. Although the average economic efficiency of the diagnostic laboratories of the studied hospitals was high, there is still an increase in the efficiency of these units, given the cost of inputs at the time of allocating resources. In addition, it is possible to improve the technical efficiency of the clinical laboratories of hospitals affiliated with UUMS by 48.1% by applying the same level of inputs and without increasing the costs.
Y-shape osteotomy combined with subtalar arthrodesis for calcaneus malunion: a retrospective study
Authors: Bai Wenbo , Zhu Yongzhan , Xu Junkui , Liang Jingqi , Lu Jun
Published: December 2022

Background

This retrospective study aimed to introduce a novel method for simultaneous Y-shape osteotomy combined with subtalar arthrodesis for calcaneus malunion and to evaluate the feasibility of this method.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed the clinical and imaging data of 11 patients with calcaneus malunion treated using Y-shape osteotomy and subtalar arthrodesis who were admitted to our hospital from June 2018 to October 2020. The patients included 9 males and 2 females aged from 24 to 69 years old, with an average age of 42.18 years. The clinical and radiological results were assessed with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score. In addition, functional recovery and general quality of life were evaluated using the 12-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-12).

Results

All radiological parameters were significantly improved at the last follow-up, with increases of 14.37°, 9.18°, and 4.51 mm in the Böhler’s angle, calcaneal pitch angle, and talocalcaneal height, respectively, and decreases of 6.39 mm and 6.18° in the calcaneal width and Hindfoot alignment angle (p < 0.05). The mean AOFAS and VAS scores at the last follow-up improved compared with those preoperatively, from 34.18 ± 9.53 to 84.18 ± 11.59 and from 6.90 ± 1.22 to 1.90 ± 1.13, respectively (p < 0.05). The SF-12 physical and mental health scores were 49.65 ± 6.84 and 52.68 ± 7.88, respectively. Furthermore, the early postoperative complications included skin necrosis in one and sural neuralgia in one patient, and the late postoperative complication included ankle pain in one patient. No other complications, such as implant discomforts, malunion, nonunion and re-fracture, were presented.

Conclusion

These results indicate that Y-shape osteotomy combined with subtalar arthrodesis is an effective new method for the treatment of calcaneal malunion. Advantages include improvement of the anatomic shape of the calcaneus and union rates for subtalar arthrodesis.
Development and psychometric evaluation of the CanSmart questionnaire to measure chronic disease self-management tasks
Authors: Lambert Sylvie D. , Bartlett Susan J. , McCusker Jane , Yaffe Mark , Ciampi Antonio , Belzile Eric , de Raad Manon
Published: December 2022

Background

Psychometrically sound measures of chronic disease self-management tasks are needed to improve identification of patient needs and to tailor self-management programs. This study aimed to develop and conduct a preliminary psychometric analysis of the CanSMART questionnaire among a diverse, multimorbid Canadian population.

Methods

The data were drawn from a cross-sectional online survey to examine self-management needs and support preferences. Participants were 306 Canadian adults with one or more physical and/or emotional chronic conditions. The questionnaire on frequency of self-management tasks was developed with substantial patient partner input. We conducted Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) of the 11 self-management tasks comprising the scale in two randomly selected subsamples, followed by Rasch analysis. Associations between patient characteristics and the self-management task subscales and individual items were explored.

Results

The factor analyses identified two self-management task subscales that were labelled Coping tasks (6 items) and Physical tasks (3 items), with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.70 and 0.67, respectively. Rasch analysis suggested that participants had difficulty discriminating between response options “mostly” and “always”. In analyses of independent associations with patient characteristics, both Coping and Physical tasks were associated with reporting more than one chronic disease and employment disability. The Coping tasks subscale was associated with female sex. Two items, on medication use and monitoring biological parameters, did not load on either scale. Both were associated with specific diagnoses.

Conclusions

In this preliminary analysis, two self-management tasks subscales exhibit good psychometric properties. Two items that did not load on either scale may represent additional dimensions of self-management. This work provides the basis for further scale development and use in research and clinical practice.
Anti-drug antibodies and rheumatoid factor level in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using the infliximab biosimilar CT-P13
Authors: Sakane Hideo , Okamura Koichi , Inoue Makoto , Inoue Hiroshi , Yonemoto Yukio , Mitomi Hirofumi , Tsuchida Kosei , Suto Takahito , Kaneko Tetsuya , Chikuda Hirotaka
Published: December 2022

Background

This study evaluated the existence of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) before and 52 weeks after switching from intravenous infliximab (IFX) to intravenous CT-P13 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We performed a prospective observational study. Twenty-eight patients (7 males and 21 females) received intravenous CT-P13 after intravenous IFX, and the clinical data were collected from medical records. Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibody were examined at baseline. At baseline and 52 weeks after the start of CT-P13 treatment, the Disease Activity Score based on the 28-joint count and the levels of C-reactive protein, matrix metalloproteinase-3, and ADA, as well as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate were evaluated. ADAs were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit.

Results

Seven (25%) and 6 (21.4%) cases were positive for ADAs at baseline and 52 weeks after, respectively. One case became newly positive for ADAs at week 52. Two of the ADA-positive cases became ADA-negative 52 weeks after. The ADA-positive group showed significantly higher RF values at baseline than the ADA-negative group (p = 0.03). No difference was observed between the ADA-positive group and the ADA-negative group regarding other clinical parameters.

Conclusions

The positive rate of ADAs did not increase after switching from intravenous IFX to intravenous CT-P13. Among the patients with ADAs, a high level of RF was observed at baseline.