bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creation and Validation of an Algorithm Predicting Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation Following Pulmonary Vein Isolation Utilizing Ensemble Modeling Techniques
Authors: Horde Gaither , Ayyala Deepak Nag , Maddux Paul , Gopal Aaron , White William , Berman Adam E
Published: July 2022

Catheter ablation (CA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) represents a mainstay of treatment of this prevalent arrhythmia. Clinical trials investigating the efficacy of CA may poorly represent real-world patient populations. However, many real-world data sets possess missing data, which may impede their applicability in research. We sought to use ensemble modeling to address missing data and develop a model to estimate the probability of AF recurrence following CA. We retrospectively analyzed clinical variables in 476 patients who underwent an initial CA of AF. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine those variables predictive of AF recurrence. A multivariate logistic model was created to estimate the probability of AF recurrence after CA. Missing data was addressed using ensemble modeling and variable selection was performed using the aggregate of multiple models. After analysis, six variables remained in the model. Predictive modeling was performed using these variables for 1000 randomly partitioned datasets (80% training, 20% testing) and 1000 random imputations for each partitioned dataset. The model predicted AF recurrence with an accuracy of 74.34 ± 3.99%. Application of this model to patients undergoing CA may help identify those at risk of AF recurrence.
Frequency Specific Alterations of the Degree Centrality in Patients with Acute Basal Ganglia Ischemic Stroke: A Resting-State fMRI Study
Authors: Chen Hao , Zhan Linlin , Li Qianqian , Meng Chaoguo , Quan Xuemei , Chen Xiaoling , Hao Zeqi , Li Jing , Gao Yanyan , Li Huayun , Jia Xize , Li Mengting , Liang Zhijian
Published: July 2022

This study intends to investigate the frequency specific of brain oscillation activity in patients with acute basal ganglia ischemic stroke (BGIS) by using degree centrality (DC) method. Here, 34 acute BGIS patients and 43 healthy controls (HCs) underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scanning to investigate abnormal neural activity using the DC method within three frequency bands: conventional band (0.01-0.08Hz), slow‑4 band (0.027-0.073Hz), slow‑5 band (0.01-0.027Hz). Moreover, correlation between abnormal DC values and clinical indicators was performed. In conventional band, compare to HCs, BGIS patients exhibited increased DC values in the right superior temporal gyrus, right superior frontal gyrus and left angular gyrus. In slow-4 band, BGIS patients showed greater increased DC values in the bilateral precentral gyrus. In slow-5 band, BGIS patients presented increased DC values in the left precuneus, bilateral caudate, left angular gyrus and vermis_4_5. Additionally, the DC values increased in the right caudate (r=0.400; p =0.019) and vermis_4_5 (r=0.431; p =0.011) in slow-5 band were positively correlated with NIHSS and the DC values increased in the right caudate (r=-0.339; p =0.050) were negatively correlated with BI in patients. Our findings showed that the DC changes in BGIS were frequency specific and the slow-5 band could be more sensitive to examine the DC changes, and revealed that the DC changes reflected the potential neurobiological mechanism of brain functional reorganization in patients with acute BGIS.
Influence of the Metal−Support and Metal−Metal Interactions on Pd nucleation and NO adsorption in a Pd4/γ-Al2O3 (110D) model
Authors: Prates Letícia M. , Carneiro José W. de M. , Cruz Maurício T. de M.
Published: July 2022

The role played by the metal − support (MSI) and metal − metal (MMI) interactions on two important processes in controlling the catalyst performance - nucleation and molecular adsorption – has been investigated using DFT (B3LYP) combined with LMOEDA and NBO calculations, with aid of a Pd4/γ-alumina (110D) model (Pd4/Al13O23H7). Our results indicate the occurrence of an electronic effect (EMSI) at the metal − support interface which induces a most intense charge transfer in the Pd4→γ-alumina backdonation direction, most expressive in Pd→Al, promoting an electronic redistribution within the units and attenuating the MMI. Nevertheless, the MSI/MMI synergistic effect seems to favor slightly the nucleation of a fifth palladium atom, leading to a distorted square pyramidal arrangement for Pd5. The LMOEDA analysis points to a mostly covalent character in the Pd − Al bonds, whereas the Pd − O bonds are mainly electrostatic in nature. The palladium atoms deposited on oxygen anions are the acid centers, where both NO molecule and an additional palladium atom anchor more strongly. In addition, the MSI/MMI effect, through the electronic and geometric contributions, drives the adsorption of the NO molecule to the mode which most favors the Pd→NO (4dz2→2π*) backdonation (bridge mode).
Achieving a Robust Mentoring and Research Capacity Program in a LMIC – The BRAINS Faculty Development Model
Authors: Ogunsola Folasade Tolulope , Sekoni Adekemi O. , Emmanuel Madonna , Manga-Atangana Bibiane , Caleb-Adepoju Sikeade Olawumi , Folarin Olalekan , Afolabi Bosede Bukola , Okubadejo Njideka Ulunma , Adeyemo Wasiu Lanre , Akanmu Alani Sulaimon , Osuntoki Akinniyi , Okonkwo Prosper , Murphy Robert , Kanki Phyllis
Published: July 2022

Background: A research and training program (RTP) was carried out to build capacity of faculty and improve the culture of research in the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Nigeria.Methods: Realist guided mixed methods evaluation of the BRAINS project was carried out using secondary data generated during the 5-years (2015 – 2020) of project implementation. The participants were trainee’s and mentees (45) currently faculty in the CMUL. Data was extracted from all project related documents including coursework biodata, workshop evaluation forms, quarterly project report and end of project report, submitted by the mentees, minutes of meetings and the proposal submitted for funding. It was in the form of continuous variables and prose (sentences & stories). Quantitative data was analysed with IBM SPSS statistics version 20 while the prose was thematically analysed to generate themes and narratives. Both were subsequently combined for interpretation and used to refine the initial programme theory into an evidence-informed theory.Results: Twelve courses were deployed, 1,418 participants (47.8% males and 52.2% females) from medical, nursing and allied medical departments were trained. Eighty participants were trained on Responsible Conduct of Research and Manuscript Writing over a three year period. Comparison of the pre/post-test knowledge scores showed a positive mean difference. Thematic analysis of workshop data produced three thematic domains representing effectiveness and gains namely: cognitive, reward and behavioural. 45 trainees were awarded grants and mentored, analysis of mentees data generated 4 themes: Achieving a robust mentoring program; Benefits of the mentoring program; Resilience in research; Improving the mentoring program. Conclusion: By contributing to the body of knowledge available on RTPs, this evaluation identified key components that contributed to the success of the project and developed a model for achieving a robust training and mentoring program which can be replicated in other LMICs.
An Improved Sparrow Search Algorithm for Deployment Problem in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Xie Jiazu , Zhang Cuiping
Published: July 2022

When designing and deploying wireless sensor network (WSN), sensor node deployment is one of the crucial issues for WSN providing high quality of service. Sensor node deployment could also affect network coverage, network connectivity, network lifetime, and energy consumption. This paper attempts to solve sensor node deployment problem in WSN. A mathematical model is constructed by considering coverage maximization, deployment strategy and other constraints. As the problem is non-deterministic polynomial (NP) complete, a new method called sparrow search algorithm (SSA) is used. A novel population structure is proposed to improve SSA to solve the problem. Two populations with central symmetry property are created in initialization. Crossover operator is used to exchange information of the two populations. The computational complexity of the improved SSA algorithm is also discussed. Numerical simulations are performed to solve the deployment problem in WSN. The improved SSA algorithm is tested and compared with other algorithms. The results show that the proposed method is useful to address NP complete sensor node deployment problem in WSN.
Fetal pancreas size and maternal serum biomarkers glycated albumin and insulin-regulated aminopeptidase provide no potential for early prediction of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Guleroglu Filiz Yarsilikal , Ozmen Aliye Balkan , Bakirci Isil Turan , Dogu Sevilay Yavuz , Yilmaz Ibrahim , Cetin Ali
Published: July 2022

Purpose: We aimed to determine the predictive values of fetal pancreas size and maternal serum biomarkers glycated albumin (GA) and insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Material and methods: In this prospective observational study including 109 pregnant women, the fetal pancreas size and maternal serum biomarkers GA and IRAP were measured at the gestational age of 20-22 weeks and later at the gestational age of 24-28 weeks, in 19 participants of them, GDM was confirmed with the 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and the fetal pancreas size was measured in all the participants again. Results: The median fetal pancreas sizes were significantly higher in women with or without GDM when measured at the 24-28 weeks of pregnancy compared to those at the 20-22 weeks of pregnancy (p<0.05). At both of the 20-22 and 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, the median values of fetal pancreas sizes in the women with or without GDM were found comparable (p>0.05). There were no significant differences between pregnant women with or without GDM regarding maternal serum biomarkers GA and IRAP (p>0.05). Conclusions: The fetal pancreas size and maternal serum biomarkers GA and IRAP provide no potential for early prediction of GDM at the 20-22 weeks of gestation. Further studies, including serial measurement of these parameters during second and third trimesters of GDM pregnancies, may clarify their role in the antenatal care of women with GDM.
Chemotherapy refusal and subsequent survival in older women with high genomic risk estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer
Authors: White McKenzie J. , Kolbow Madison , Prathiba Saranya , Praska Corinne , Ankeny Jacob , LaRocca Christopher , Jensen Eric H. , Tuttle Todd M. , Hui Jane Y. C. , Marmor Schelomo
Published: July 2022

Background: Patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer (BC) and high-risk 21-gene recurrence score (RS) results benefit from chemotherapy. We evaluated chemotherapy refusal and survival in older women with high-RS, ER-positive BC.Methods: Retrospective review of the National Cancer Database (2010-2017) identified women ³ 65 years of age, with ER-positive, HER2-negative, high-RS (³ 26) BC. Patients with Charlson Comorbidity Index ³ 1, stage III/IV disease, or incomplete data were excluded. Women were compared by chemotherapy receipt or refusal using the Cochrane-Armitage test, multivariable logistical regression modeling, the Kaplan-Meier method, and Cox’s proportional hazards modeling.Results: 6,827 women met study criteria; 5,449 (80%) received chemotherapy, 1,378 (20%) refused. Compared to women who received chemotherapy, women who refused were older (71 vs 69 years), were diagnosed more recently (2014-2017, 67% vs 61%), and received radiation less frequently (67% vs 71%) (p£0.05). Refusal was associated with decreased 5-year OS for women 65-74 (92% vs 95%) and 75-79 (85% vs 92%) (p£0.05), but not for women ³80 years old (84% vs 91%; p=0.07). On multivariable analysis, hazard of death increased with refusal overall (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.04-1.2); but, when stratified by age, was not increased for women ³80 years (HR 1.10, 95% CI 0.80-1.51).Conclusions: Among healthy women with high-RS, ER-positive BC, chemotherapy refusal was associated with decreased OS for women ages 65-79, but did not impact the OS of women ≥ 80 years old. Genomic testing may have limited utility in this population, warranting prudent shared decision-making and further study.
Use of epinephrine in anaphylaxis: a 6-year retrospective cohort study at a Swiss university emergency department
Authors: Ehrhard Simone , Gautschi Dominic , Eyb Vicky , Schauber Stefan K. , Ricklin Meret E. , Klukowska-Rötzler Jolanta , Exadaktylos Aristomenis K. , Helbling Arthur
Published: July 2022

Background
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment to prevent life threatening conditions. Epinephrine considered as the first-line drug is often not administered. We aimed first to analyze the use of epinephrine in patients with anaphylaxis in the emergency department of a University Hospital and secondly to identify factors that influence the use of epinephrine.
Methods
We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients who were admitted with moderate or severe anaphylaxis to the emergency department between 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2018. Patient characteristics and treatment information were extracted from the electronic medical database or manually of the full emergency department discharge report.
Results
A total of 531 (0.2%) patients with moderate or severe anaphylaxis out of 260'485 patients admitted to the emergency department were included. Epinephrine was administered in 252 patients (47.3%). In a multivariate logistic regression cardiovascular (ORCARD = 2.94, CI 1.96–4.46, p < 0.001) and respiratory symptoms (ORRESP=3.14, CI 1.95–5.14, p < 0.001) were associated with increased likelihood of epinephrine administration, in contrast to integumentary symptoms (ORINTEGU = 0.98, CI 0.54–1.81, p = 0.961) and gastrointestinal symptoms (ORGAST=0.62, CI 0.39–1.00, p = 0.053).
Conclusions
Less than half of the patients with moderate and severe anaphylaxis received epinephrine according to guidelines. In particular, gastrointestinal symptoms seem to be misrecognized as serious symptoms of anaphylaxis. Training of the rescue service and emergency department medical staff and further awareness are crucial to increase the administration rate of epinephrine in anaphylaxis.
A cross-sectional research conducted to assess pharmacists' knowledge, attitude, practice, and readiness in the presence of the COVID-19 epidemic in Baghdad.
Authors: Al-Obaidi Mazen M Jamil , Mahmood Adnan Hussein , Al-Adhamy Mohammed
Published: July 2022

Background
- Usually, community pharmacies that are expected to take extraordinary efforts to prevent client cross-infection sell masks and disinfectants. Additionally, it is their duty to take the lead in informing the public about this outbreak. Therefore, the study aims to test Iraqi pharmacists' knowledge of COVID-19.
Methods
- Numerous pharmacies in Baghdad were randomly visited outside of lockdown hours and had to complete a Google form following each visit. The form had simple checkboxes for all desired observations and specialized spaces for any additional information that needed to be noted. The survey's statistical analyses were descriptive, and no formal hypothesis testing was performed. Numbers and percentages were used to summarize the results.
Results
- Iraqi pharmacists trusted the WHO, media and websites, and Ministry of health (MOH) websites for COVID-19 information. According to the data, pharmacists administered acetaminophen and corticosteroids for COVID-19 infection treatment. The results also showed that Zing, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D were recommended to improve immunity and that these medicines were given orally. Massive numbers of pharmacists suggest that the call center of MOH is not applicable.
Conclusion
- the Iraqi Ministry of Health did not include pharmacists in its health emergency preparations. This resulted in a general delay in pharmacies' readiness. National governments and organizations may benefit from using pharmacists' knowledge and skills to reduce or stop future COVID-19 waves and manage risk if these waves do happen.
Early growth response 3 is Associated with Prognosis in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: li Xia , Abudukeyimu Zumureti , Liu Fang , Zhu Kairui , Luo Junyi , Wang Siqing , Ma Juxing , Lin Xiaomei , Xu Mengge
Published: July 2022

Aim
To investigate the association between the expression of early growth response 3 (Egr3), the level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1ß(IL-1ß) as well as prognosis in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).
Methods
Clinical data of 119 patients who visited the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University with CHD symptoms and underwent coronary artery angiography (CAG) were collected. According to the CAG results and Gensini score, the patients were divided into a mild stenosis group (n = 56), severe stenosis group (n = 32) and control group (n = 31). Circulating serum levels of Egr3 and the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1ß and IL-6 were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.qRT-PCR was used to measure Egr3 gene expression in peripheral blood of patients. The incidence of the CHD clinical composite end point was followed for 1 year by examining outpatient medical records and inquiry by telephone.
Results
The level of Egr3 in CHD patients was affected by Gensini score (b = 7.170, t = 2.912, P = 0.005) and IL-6 (b = 26.248, t = 4.279, P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in Egr3 mRNA levels between the controls and CHD patients. Moreover, the mRNA levels of Egr3 was a contributing factor to the adverse cardiovascular prognosis in patients with CHD (HR = 1.036, 95% CI 1.014–1.058, P = 0.001).
Conclusions
Egr3 may interact with the inflammatory response resulting in CHD. Egr3 may aggravate the severity of coronary artery stenosis, indicating that Egr3 mRNA levels are a potential prognostic factor in patients with CHD.
Intralobar pulmonary sequestration in an adult: a case report
Authors: Nair Prasanth Sadasivan , Merry Christopher James , White Alex
Published: July 2022

Background
Pulmonary sequestration is a rare congenital lung anomaly, presenting mostly in childhood and adolescence.
Case presentation
We report the case of a 26-year-old male patient presenting with pleuritic left sided chest pain and haemoptysis. Computed tomography of the chest (CT Chest) showed features of intralobar pulmonary sequestration involving the left lower lobe, with arterial supply arising from the descending thoracic aorta (DTA) above the diaphragm and normal venous drainage. Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) was planned to perform a left lower lobectomy. Considering the risk of bleeding from the large artery supplying the sequestered segment, a posterolateral thoracotomy incision was made and left lower lobectomy was completed, with successful division of the arterial feeder. The patient was discharged home without complications. Pathologic examination of the specimen grossly revealed partial division of the lobe by two fissures with extensive adhesions into an upper and lower portion with no clear demarcation and a large vessel which enters the lower portion at the posterior inferior aspect, separate from the hilum with a diameter 10 mm. Microscopically, both portions of the lobe showed normally alveolated lung tissue with patchy recent intra-alveolar haemorrhage and evidence of chronic inflammation in the sequestered segment. There was no evidence of malignancy.
Conclusion
This case highlights the rare presentation of pulmonary sequestration in adulthood and the importance of imaging to identify anomalous arterial supply to the sequestered segment in the left lower lobe of the lung. The use of safe surgical techniques to control the anomalous systemic arterial feeding vessel cannot be overemphasized.
A DNA damage response-like phenotype defines a novel subset of colon cancer
Authors: Mauro Stefania , Bolognesi Maddalena , Villa Nicoletta , Capitoli Giulia , Furia Laura , Mascadri Francesco , Zucchini Nicola , Totis Mauro , Faretta Mario , Galimberti Stefania , Bovo Giorgio , Cattoretti Giorgio
Published: July 2022

Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) has a limited range of diversified, personalized therapeutic opportunities, besides DNA hypermutating cases; thus both new targets or broadening existing strategies for personalized intervention are of interest. Routinely processed material from 246 untreated COADs with clinical follow-up was probed for evidence of DNA damage response (DDR) by multiplex immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical staining for DDR complex proteins (ℽH2AX, pCHK2, pNBS1) and for type I interferon response, T-lymphocyte infiltration (TILs), mutation mismatch repair defects (MMRd). FISH analysis for chromosome 20q copy number variations was obtained. 33.7% of COAD display a coordinated DDR on quiescent, non-senescent, non-apoptotic glands, irrespective of TP53, chromosome 20q abnormalities, type I IFN response. Clinicopathological parameters did not differentiate DDR + cases from the other cases. TILs were equally present in DDR and non-DDR cases. DDR + MMRd cases were preferentially retaining wild-type MLH1. The outcome after 5FU-based chemotherapy was not different in the two groups. DDR + COAD represents a subgroup not aligned with known diagnostic, prognostic or therapeutic categories, with potential new targeted treatment opportunities.
Molecular subtyping of Blastocystis sp. detected in patients at a large tertiary referral hospital in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Munsaka Gilbert , Hayashida Kyoko , Mubemba Benjamin , Simulundu Edgar , Mulunda Namwiinga , Pule Ruth , Sianongo Sandie , Makuluni Marina , Muleya Walter , Changula Katendi , Chitanga Simbarashe , Mutengo Mable
Published: July 2022

Background
Blastocystis sp. is a common enteric eukaryote of humans whose pathogenicity is still debatable. However, a number of reported infections associated with enteric disease exist. In Zambia, presence of the pathogen has previously been reported in children. However, the molecular epidemiology of Blastocystis infections remain unclarified in Zambia.
Methods & Results
Archived stool samples submitted for routine parasitological diagnosis at Zambia’s largest tertiary referral hospital positive for Blastocystis sp. by microscopic examination were selected for the study. Subtyping of the Blastocystis was done based on PCR amplification, sequencing and subsequent phylogenetic analysis of the 18S small subunit (SSU) rDNA gene. Four subtypes, ST1 (allele 4), ST2 (allele 12), ST3 (allele 34, 36, 37, 38, 39) and ST6 (allele 122), were identified by molecular procedures in the study, with some Zambian sequences showing close relationships with those detected in non-human primates and common rats.
Conclusions
The study revealed the circulation of multiple Blastocystis subtypes ST1, ST2, ST3 and ST6 in the study population. The close clustering of some Zambian sequences with those detected from animals suggests the possibility of the presence of both anthroponotic and zoonotic transmission cycles in the country. Further studies in animal populations are recommended for a better understanding of the epidemiology of Blastocystis and for implementation of effective evidence-based control strategies.
Is a radical cure enough? Assessing a primaquine treatment for adult males in Cambodia to eliminate vivax malaria by 2025
Authors: Martin-Hughes Rowan , Hickson RI , Price David J , Thriemer Kamala , Fowkes Freya JI , McCaw James M , Simpson Julie A , Abeysuriya Romesh , Scott Nick , Sovannaroth Siv , Devine Angela , Ngor Pengby
Published: July 2022

Background: Elimination targets for Plasmodium vivax are approaching, wit the Cambodian target of 2025. Quantitative tools can assess if proposed strategies are likely to be sufficient to meet those targets. Methods: We calibrated the Optima Malaria transmission model to reported case data from 2011–2018 for six provinces with different transmission levels. The model had two human populations: males aged 15 years and older, and everyone else. We assessed the addition of the new low-dose primaquine intervention (0.25 mg/kg daily x 14 days) for diagnosed P. vivax infections where males aged 15 years and older were prescribed primaquine after testing glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrognase normal to the 2018 status quo (blood-stage treatment only). Results were evaluated over stochastic iterations of the calibrated compartmental model, incorporating best and worst case interpretations of the available case data given uncertainty over underlying P. vivax incidence in 2020.Results: Under 2018 status quo conditions in the absence of primaquine radical cure, we found that P. vivax elimination would be unlikely to be achieved by 2040 in any province. Elimination by 2025 was not projected in any province even with best case assumptions for primaquine intervention coverage, G6PD-based eligibility, and primaquine efficacy; however, we estimated that the addition of the primaquine intervention could reduce P. vivax transmission by 67%-83% by 2025. We found that sustained application of the primaquine intervention was likely to result in elimination by 2040 in all six provinces with best case estimated baseline incidence, and in the two lowest incidence provinces with worst case baseline incidence.Conclusions: Without additional novel interventions, the primaquine radical cure (0.25 mg/kg daily x 14 days targeting adult males with diagnosed P. vivax infections) is not projected to result in elimination from any province by the 2025 target even under the most optimistic interpretation of the available case data. However, the implementation of a primaquine intervention in Cambodia is likely to have a substantial impact on transmission of P. vivax and may make elimination feasible over the longer term.
Chronic subdural hematomas - a retrospective analysis of the internal architecture and evaluation of risk factors for recurrences after surgical therapy
Authors: Grübel Grübel N. , Klempner Klempner C. , Mayer Mayer B. , Runck Runck F. , Durner Durner G. , Wirtz Wirtz C. R. , Pala Pala A.
Published: July 2022

Objective
Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common disease which is increasing due to aging population and the use of anticoagulation and antiplatelet medication. Aim of this study is to analyze the internal structure of CSDH and investigate potential risk factors for recurrence.
Methods
This retrospective study evaluated data of 189 patients which were treated surgically between 2014–2018 at our department. Recorded were demographic-, clinical-, surgical treatment-, (CT)-imaging-, neurological status- and follow up data. The outcome was assessed clinically and with follow-up CT imaging 4–12 weeks after surgery. CT images were used to measure the thickness of hematomas, hyperdense areas, chronic parts, and membranes.
Results
Patients after evacuation of CSDH were significantly more common males (66,1%, n = 125, p > 0,001) had a significantly higher BMI (p < 0,001, 61,6%), arterial hypertension (p < 0,001, 68,3%) and the intake of anticoagulant therapy (p < 0,001, 58%). The recurrence rate was 18,6% after 4 weeks and 2,1% after 8–12 weeks. After uni- and multivariable analysis, the initial hemispheric type (p = 0,019, HR: 3,191; p = 0,012, HR: 3,810) and the increasing preoperative midline shift in CT imaging (p = 0,028, HR: 1,114; p = 0,041, HR: 1,107) were found as independent predictors for recurrence. Overall, outcomes were favorable with a mRS of 0–2 at discharge (72%), after 4 (89,7%) and 12 (87%) weeks.
Conclusion
Increasing midline shift before surgery as well as initial hemispheric type of hematoma were independent predictors for recurrence according to our data. Most patients achieved an excellent outcome with low risk profile.
A comparison of node vaccination strategies to halt SIR epidemic spreading in real-world complex networks
Authors: Sartori Fabio , Turchetto Massimiliano , Bellingeri Michele , Scotognella Francesco , Alfieri Roberto , Nguyen Ngoc-Kim-Khanh , Le Thi Trang , Nguyen Quang , Cassi Davide
Published: July 2022

We compared seven node vaccination strategies in twelve real-world complex networks. The node vaccination strategies are modeled as node removal on networks. We performed node vaccination strategies both removing nodes according to the initial network structure, i.e., non-adaptive approach, and performing partial node rank recalculation after node removal, i.e., semi-adaptive approach. To quantify the efficacy of each vaccination strategy, we used three epidemic spread indicators: the size of the largest connected component, the total number of infected at the end of the epidemic, and the maximum number of simultaneously infected individuals. We show that the best vaccination strategies in the non-adaptive and semi-adaptive approaches are different and that the best strategy also depends on the number of available vaccines. Furthermore, a partial recalculation of the node centrality increases the efficacy of the vaccination strategies up to 80%.
Automatic Business Location Selection through Particle Swarm Optimization and Neural Network
Authors: Luo Yinyi , Zhong Jinghui , Liu Wei-Li , Chen Wei-Neng
Published: July 2022

Location selection is an important part of running a business. A good business location can greatly increase customer flow, reduce operating costs, and increase business revenue. Therefore, it is necessary to select an appropriate location for business premises. In this research, we propose a method combining machine learning and particle swarm optimization for the business location selection. In the proposed method, we first apply the particle swarm algorithm to optimize the proportional coefficient of the influence of different surrounding commercial places on the site selection of the research site. Then we use a machine learning method to perform the binary classification on the sites to judge whether a geographic location is a good site selection point. The proposed method is compared with several common location selection methods such as random selection method and k-nearest neighbor method. The experimental results have validated the effectiveness of our proposed method for business location selection.
Physicochemical and biochemical properties of intestinal trypsin from sturgeon fish
Authors: Zamani Abbas , Khajavi Maryam , Kenari Abdolmohammad Abedian , Nazarpak Masoumeh Haghbin , Solouk Atefeh , Esmaeili Mina
Published: July 2022

This work aimed to determine the physicochemical and biochemical characterization of the intestinal trypsin from beluga (Huso huso) and sevruga (Acipenser stellatus), two highly valuable sturgeon species, by a series of assays. According to the results obtained from casein-zymogram and inhibitory activity staining method, indicating the existence of trypsin in the intestinal crude extract of both species, molecular weight of the enzyme was estimated to be 27.5 and 29.5 kDa in sevruga and beluga, respectively. Optimum pH and temperature of both trypsins were recorded at 8.5 and 55°C by BAPNA (a specific substrate), respectively. The stability of both trypsins was well preserved at pH from 6.0 to11.0 and temperatures of up to 50°C. TLCK and SBTI, two specific trypsin inhibitors, showed a significant inhibitory effect on the enzymatic activity of both trypsins (P < 0.05). The enzyme activity was significantly increased in the presence of Ca+ 2 and surfactants and decreased by oxidizing agents, Cu+ 2, Zn+ 2 and Co+ 2 (P < 0.05). However, univalent ions Na+and K+ did not show any significant effect on the activity of both trypsins (P > 0.05). Therefore, the results of our study can contribute to the clear understanding of the intestinal trypsin activity in beluga and sevruga under evaluated experimental conditions.
Design and experimental study on pruning machine of Yunnan edible rose
Authors: Zhu Huibin , Zhang Xu , Qian Cheng , An Ran , Zhao Haoran , MA Shiao , Bai Lizhen
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this research was to design a pruning machine of Yunnan edible rose in order to improve the operation conditions, increase efficiency and solve the problems of stem collection. Based on the experimental results of the physical and mechanical properties of rose stems, simulation experiment of three different cutting methods was conducted to determine the optimal scheme. The results showed that single disc cutter is best ways. In order to study effects of the different structure parameters on the performance of the pruning machine and get the optimal combination of parameters, the orthogonal test was conducted. Forward speed, rotational speed of cutter, number of blades, cutting angle and knife-edge angle as factors, and the quality of pruning was selected as the evaluation index. The experiment results indicated that the working performance of machine was the highest when the number of blades was 6, rotational speed of cutter was 2000 r/min, cutting angle was 20°, knife-edge angle was 10° ,forward speed was 0.5 m/s. The average quality of pruning index, miss cutting index and tearing index were 90.6%, 5.68% and 3.72%, respectively. The research provides a reference for the design and extending of the pruning machine for edible rose.
Lifetime Performance Evaluation of Electronic Products with Censored Data
Authors: Chiou Kuo-Ching
Published: July 2022

As research-and-development technologies advance, increasing product lifetime performance becomes a crucial research topic. The lifetime performance index is used to evaluate product performance and improve quality and productivity. Censoring represents a means of shortening research-and-development time. Assuming that product lifetime follows an exponential distribution, we used the lifetime performance index and type-I right censoring to evaluate product lifetime performance. The maximum likelihood estimator is used to estimate the lifetime performance index based on the type-I right censored sample and the asymptotic distribution of estimator. We then find the level (1-α)⋅100% one-sided confidence interval for lifetime performance index, and establish the uniformly most powerful (UMP) test of the product lifetime performance index. As a demonstration of the applicability of this approach, we present a practical example in which we confirm process capability.
Confirmatory Validation of the French Version of the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Module of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL TM3.0DMDvf)
Authors: Wallach Elisabeth , Ehlinger Valerie , Biotteau Maelle , Walther-Louvier Ulrike , Péréon Yann , Vuillerot Carole , Fontaine Stephanie , Sabouraud Pascal , Espil-Taris Caroline , Cuisset Jean-Marie , Laugel Vincent , Baudou Eloïse , Arnaud Catherine , Cances Claude
Published: July 2022

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a neuromuscular disease that inevitably leads to total loss of autonomy. The new therapeutic strategies aim to both improve survival and optimize quality of life. Evaluating quality of life is nevertheless a major challenge. No DMD-specific quality of life scale to exists in French. We therefore produced a French translation of the English Duchenne muscular dystrophy module of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQLTMDMD) following international recommendations. The study objective was to carry out a confirmatory validation of the French version of the PedsQLTMDMD for pediatric patients with DMD, using French multicenter descriptive cross-sectional data. The sample consisted of 107 patients. Internal consistency was acceptable for proxy-assessments, with Cronbach's alpha coefficients above 0.70, except for the Treatments dimension. For self-assessments, internal consistency was acceptable only for the Daily Activities dimension. Our results showed poor metric qualities for the French version of the PedsQLTMDMD based on a sample of about 100 children, but these results remained consistent with those of the original validation. This confirms the interest of its use in clinical practice.
Matching-adjusted indirect comparison of isatuximab plus carfilzomib and dexamethasone with daratumumab plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone in relapsed multiple myeloma
Authors: Richter Joshua , Lin Peggy , Garcia-Horton Viviana , Guyot Patricia , Singh Erin , Zhou Zheng-Yi , Sievert Mark , Taiji Riley
Published: July 2022

Lenalidomide-based regimens are commonly used for early relapse in patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) receiving at least one prior line of therapy. In the absence of head-to-head comparison, matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) was conducted to demonstrate efficacy and safety of isatuximab+carfilzomib+dexamethasone (Isa-Kd) vs. daratumumab+lenalidomide+dexamethasone (Dara-Rd) in RRMM. Patient-level data from IKEMA trial (Isa-Kd, n=179) were matched to aggregate data from POLLUX (Dara-Rd, n=286). Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were generated by weighted Cox proportional hazard models. Odds ratios (OR), 95% CI, and p-value were calculated for ≥very good partial response (≥VGPR) and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). After matching, no significant differences were observed between Isa-Kd and Dara-Rd in baseline characteristics except for patients with >3 prior lines (0.0% vs. 4.9%). Isa-Kd showed significantly better PFS (HR [95% CI]: 0.46 [0.24–0.86]; p=0.0155), statistically non-significant improvement favoring Isa-Kd in OS (0.47 [0.20–1.09]; 0.0798), and ≥VGPR (OR [95% CI]: 1.53 [0.89–2.64]; p=0.1252) than Dara-Rd. Odds of occurrence were significantly lower for some all-grade and grade 3/4 TEAEs with Isa-Kd than Dara-Rd. These results support Isa-Kd as an efficacious treatment for early relapse in non-lenalidomide refractory patients.
Flow dynamics through discontinuous clogs of rigid particles in tapered microchannels
Authors: Majekodunmi Olukayode T. , Hashmi Sara M.
Published: July 2022

Suspended particles flowing through complex porous spaces exhibit clogging mechanisms determined by factors including their size, deformability, and the geometry of the confinement. This study describes the clogging of rigid particles in a microfluidic device made up of parallel microchannels which taper from the inlet to the outlet, where the constriction width is approximately equal to the particle size. This geometry summarizes the dynamics of clogging in flow channels with constrictions that narrow over multiple length scales. Flow tests are conducted at constant driving pressures for different particle volume fractions, and a power-law decay which appears to be peculiar to the tapered geometry of the channels is observed in all cases. In comparison with non-tapered channels, the power-law exponent shows the flowrate decay rate is significantly lower in a tapered channel. Also, micrographs of the clogged channels reveal the clogs do not grow continuously from their initial points of inception. Rather, multiple clogs with increasing number of particles in their cross section are successively formed as the cake grows in each microchannel. Changes in particle volume fraction at a constant driving pressure affect the clogging rate without impacting the underlying clogging dynamics. Unexpectedly, analyses of the particles packing behavior in the microchannels and post-clogging permeability reveal the presence of two distinct regimes of driving pressure, though only a small portion of the total device volume and channels surface area were occupied by clogs, regardless of the particle volume fraction.
Thermodynamic Parameters of Phenylglycine Interaction withUO22+, La3+ and Zr4+
Authors: El-Dossoki Farid I. , Mohamed Abd Allah Abd El-Wahab
Published: July 2022

The interactions between phenylglycine and some transition metal ions (UO22+,La3+ and Zr4+) were studied at three ionic strengths [(µ = 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15) M KNO3] and three temperatures [(25, 35 and 45) ºC] in aqueous media by using Bjerrum’s potentiometric technique. The stoichiometric and thermodynamic stability constants as well as the degree of formation n ̅ for all studied systems were determined and discussed. The standard thermodynamic parameters (Δ pKº and ΔlogKº) and the thermodynamic parameter differences (ΔGº, ΔΔGº, ΔHº, ΔΔHº, ΔSº, and ΔΔSº) were calculated for all possible reactions. Advanced discussions of these functions as well as the factors that may control the complexation processes from the thermodynamic point of view have been reported.
Decarbonization and Energy Policy Instruments in the EU: Does Explicit Carbon Pricing Prevail?
Authors: Stepanov Ilya , Albrecht Johan
Published: July 2022

Carbon pricing is a key element in climate policy, but carbon taxes and emissions trading schemes nowadays only cover around 15% of global emissions. Although historically not imposed for climate-related purposes, economy-wide general energy taxes (e.g. motor fuel taxes) can equally contribute to emission reductions. This paper clarifies the contribution to emission reductions of explicit carbon pricing (carbon taxes and the EU ETS) compared to indirect carbon pricing (general energy taxes) based on the data for 31 European countries in the period 2002-2018. Our two-way panel regression suggests that a 1% increase in explicit and indirect carbon prices leads on average to a 0.6% and 0.9% reduction in emissions respectively. Our results confirm the importance of explicit carbon pricing, but the less discussed general energy taxes have not less impact on emission dynamics.
Peanut shell biochar increases rice yield in highly saline-alkali paddy fields by regulating of leaf ionic concentration and improving leaf photosynthesis rate
Authors: Jin Feng , Piao Junlong , Che Weikang , Li Xuebin , Zhang Chengbo , Wang Qingshu , Hua Shuang
Published: July 2022

Aims
Saline-alkali soil seriously restricts the crop growth and production. Biochar addition could alleviate the adverse impacts of saline-alkali stress in crops. However, little information is available on the ionic accumulation and photosynthesis rate of rice in highly saline-alkali paddy fields. This study aimed to evaluated the influence of the peanut shell biochar on leaf ionic concentration, stress physiology indices, photosynthesis related parameters and rice yield in highly saline-alkali paddy field condition.
Methods
Field experiment was conducted using two nitrogen applied rate treatments (0 and 225 kg N ha− 1) and four biochar applied rate treatments (0%, 1.5%, 3.0% and 4.5% w/w). The field experiment was arranged in a complete randomized design with three replications.
Results
The results show that peanut shell biochar significantly reduced the leaf Na+ concentration, Na+/K+ ratio, abscisic acid and malondialdehyde concentration of rice, while enhanced leaf K+ content, and improved leaf water status and relative electrical leakage in treatments both with or without N fertilization. Furthermore, peanut shell biochar could provide beneficial effects on chlorophyll content, leaf N content, leaf area index, photosynthetic potential, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rates, which is of great benefit to the enhancement of leaf photosynthesis rate and net assimilation rate of rice population. In addition, the biomass, grain yield and harvested index were remarkably increased.
Conclusions
These results indicated that peanut shell biochar could effectively ameliorate saline–alkali stress and increase rice yield by regulating of leaf ionic concentration and improving leaf photosynthesis rate.
Specific lncRNA signatures discriminate childhood acute leukemias: a pilot study
Authors: Buono Lorena , Iside Concetta , De Matteo Antonia , Stellato Pio , Beneduce Giuliana , Penta Roberta , Parasole Rosanna , Salvatore Marco , Smaldone Giovanni , Mirabelli Peppino
Published: July 2022

BackgroundLong non-coding RNAs are RNAs longer than 200 bps that do not encode any proteins and are able to alter gene expression by acting on different steps of regulation, including DNA methylation and chromatin structure. They represent a class of biomarkers of crescent interest in the hematologic and oncologic fields. Recent studies showed that the expression levels of specific lncRNAs correlate with the prognosis of paediatric patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia.MethodsWe used NGS approaches to analyse the transcriptome of 9 childhood B-ALL patients and 6 childhood T-ALL patients, in comparison with B and T healthy lymphocytes from cord blood. We validate our findings both ex vivo, in a different cohort of 10 B-ALL and 10 T-ALL patients, and in silico using public datasets.ResultsWe characterised the lncRNA landscape for B-ALL, T-ALL, healthy B, and T cell progenitors. From the characterised signature, we selected candidate lncRNAs able to discriminate not only B-ALL and T-ALL from healthy subjects but also between the two types of leukaemia, and subsequently validated their potential as a diagnostic tool in an additional cohort of paediatric patients. We confirmed our finding with open access transcriptomic data, comparing ALL lncRNAs with AML lncRNA landscape as well. Finally, expression correlation analyses of T-ALL selected lncRNA biomarkers suggested a possible role in lymphocyte activation and the β-catenin signalling pathway for AC247036.1 and involvement in hedgehog signalling for HHIP-AS1.ConclusionsOur work identified a lncRNA signature discriminating paediatric B-ALL and T-ALL from healthy subjects, between them and from AML. This study provides the keystone to future clinical studies determining the theragnostic value of the characterised long non coding transcriptome panorama in a clinical setting for childhood patient management.
Bilateral Breast and Ovarian Metastases of Signet-ring Cell Gastric Cancer: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Li Qiang , Zhang Zhengwei , Feng Ziyu , Wei Wan , Shi Jianhua
Published: July 2022

Background
Breast cancer metastasis accounts for only 0.4–2% of all breast cancer cases. Gastric cancer with breast metastases is extremely rare, while mammary and ovarian metastases from the stomach are even more uncommon. Breast metastases might be mistaken for primary cancer due to their uncommon and generic clinical and radiological symptoms, leading to ineffective and debilitating therapy.
Case Presentation:
We present a 43-year-old woman with bilateral multiple metastases from stomach signet-ring cell carcinoma to the breast and ovary, which is the seventh case to our knowledge.
Conclusion
We highlight the epidemiological, diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic aspects of this extremely rare disease through our case, which are critical to understand in order to avoid diagnostic errors and subsequent incorrect care.