bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Significance of Early Molecular Response in Patients Diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Chronic Phase Treated with Nilotinib as a First-Line Therapy
Authors: Shazly Mohammad Abdallah , Azzazi Mohammed Osman , Samra Mohamed , Elsaed Ahmed Youssri
Published: October 2022

Background: Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is one of malignant hematologic disorders arises from hematopoietic stem cells. BCR-ABL transcript levels on the international scale at 3 and 6 months are defined as indicators of the early efficacy of first line TKI treatment.
Aim To investigate the impact of early molecular response (EMR; BCR-ABL ≤ 10% on the International scale at 3 or 6 months) on outcome of the newly diagnosed CML in chronic phase treated with Nilotinib.
Patients and Methods: The study was enrolled from 2018 to 2020 at Nasser Institute for Research and Treatment.This is a prospective cohort study done on 94 newly diagnosed CML cases in Chronic Phase.
Results: A statistically significant difference was detected between patients not achieved EMR with peripheral blasts ≥5%, when compared to others achieved EMR with peripheral blasts <5% (P<0.001). 75% of patients not achieved EMR were ≥55 years age at diagnosis; and 90% of patients achieved EMR were <55 years of age at diagnosis with (P<0.001). 25% of cases not achieved EMR were compliant, while other cases achieved EMR were compliant with (P<0.001).Overall survival remained higher in patients who achieved EMR (N=90) compared to patients who did not achieve EMR (N=4) (P=0.0001).
Conclusion: EMR is an important prognostic significance for CML patients received treatment with Nilotinib. Patients who achieved EMR had significantly better outcome. Achieving MR3.0 should be the aim in patents with CML-CP who have a 3-month BCR-ABL ≤ 10% and 6-month BCR-ABL ≤ 10%.
Experimental results of permittivity of lunar simulated materials in the UHF-SHF band for radar explorations
Authors: Kobayashi Makito , Miyamoto Hideaki , Bernadett Pál Diána , Niihara Takafumi , Takemura Tomohiro
Published: October 2022

The mapping of available water-ice is a crucial step in the lunar exploration missions. Ground penetrating radars have the potential to map the subsurface structure and the existence of water-ice in terms of the electromagnetic properties, specifically, the permittivity. Slight differences in permittivity can be significantly important when applied in a dry environment, such as on the Moon and Mars. The capability of detecting a small fraction of putative water ice depends on the permittivity changes in terms of its dependent parameters, such as the frequency, the temperature, the porosity, and the chemical composition. Our work aims at mitigating false detection or overlooking of water-ice by considering their conditions that previous researches did not cover. We measured the permittivity of different lunar regolith relevant samples with a fixed 40 \% porosity in the ultra high frequency - super high frequency band. We used the coaxial probe method to measure anorthosite, basalt, dunite and ilmenite at 20 °C, -20°C and -60°C. We find that, at – 60 °C, the permittivity decreases about 7 – 20 \% compared with the values at 20 °C, and that permittivity changes caused by ilmenite content could lead to false detection of lunar water-ice mostly. Our results also suggest that the water-ice content could be estimated from radar measurements at different temperatures.
Global transcriptome profiling reveals differential regulatory, metabolic and hormonal networks during somatic embryogenesis in Coffea arabica
Authors: Awada Rayan , Lepelley Maud , Breton David , Charpagne Aline , Campa Claudine , Berry Victoria , Georget Frédéric , Breitler Jean-Christophe , Léran Sophie , Djerrab Doâa , Martinez-Seidel Federico , Descombes Patrick , Crouzillat Dominique , Bertrand Benoît , Etienne Hervé
Published: October 2022

Background
Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is one of the most promising processes for large-scale dissemination of elite varieties. However, for many plant species, optimizing SE protocols still relies on a trial and error approach. We report the first global scale transcriptome profiling performed at all developmental stages of SE in coffee to unravel the mechanisms that regulate cell fate and totipotency.
Results
RNA-seq of 48 samples (12 developmental stages x 4 biological replicates) generated 90 million high quality reads per sample, approximately 74% of which were uniquely mapped to the Arabica genome. First, the statistical analysis of transcript data clearly grouped SE developmental stages into seven important phases (Leaf, Dedifferentiation, Primary callus, Embryogenic callus, Embryogenic cell clusters, Redifferentiation and Embryo) enabling the identification of six key developmental phase switches, which are strategic for the overall biological efficiency of embryo regeneration. Differential gene expression and functional analysis showed that genes encoding transcription factors, stress-related genes, metabolism-related genes and hormone signaling-related genes were significantly enriched. Second, the standard environmental drivers used to control SE, i.e. light, growth regulators and cell density, were clearly perceived at the molecular level at different developmental stages. Third, expression profiles of auxin-related genes, transcription factor-related genes and secondary metabolism-related genes were analyzed during SE. Gene co-expression networks were also inferred. Auxin-related genes were upregulated during dedifferentiation and redifferentiation while transcription factor-related genes were switched on from the embryogenic callus and onward. Secondary metabolism-related genes were switched off during dedifferentiation and switched back on at the onset of redifferentiation. Secondary metabolites and endogenous IAA content were tightly linked with their respective gene expression. Lastly, comparing Arabica embryogenic and non-embryogenic cell transcriptomes enabled the identification of biological processes involved in the acquisition of embryogenic capacity.
Conclusions
The present analysis showed that transcript fingerprints are discriminating signatures of cell fate and are under the direct influence of environmental drivers. A total of 23 molecular candidates were successfully identified overall the 12 developmental stages and should now be tested in many plant species to optimize SE protocols in a rational way.
The gut microbiota affects amyloid deposition in Alzheimer’s disease models by suppressing immune-mediated Aβ clearance
Authors: Wasén Caroline , Vincentini Julia , Gauthier Christian , Lopes Juliana , Butovsky Oleg , Cox Laura , Weiner Howard
Published: October 2022

The gut microbiota and innate immune system play critical roles in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Bacteroides is elevated in AD patients and correlates with cerebrospinal fluid levels of Aβ and tau. We found that increased Aβ plaques in Bacteroides fragilis-treated APP/PS1-21 mice were associated with altered cortical expression Aβ processing genes. B. fragilis suppressed peripheral CD4+ T cell production of GM-CSF and IL-4 and transcriptional changes in microglia related to GM-CSF and IL-4 signaling, phagocytosis, and protein degradation. Furthermore, B. fragilis impaired the microglial uptake of intracranially injected Aβ42, whereas Erysipelotrichaceae strains increased uptake. Depleting murine Bacteroidetes with metronidazole decreased amyloid load in aged 5xFAD mice, increased CD4+ T cell GM-CSF production, and activated microglial pathways related to cytokine signaling, phagocytosis and lysosomal degradation. These data suggest that the gut microbiome may contribute to AD pathogenesis by suppressing peripheral cytokines and microglia phagocytic function, leading to impaired immune-mediated Aβ clearance.
Development and Validation of the Children’s STEM Habits of Mind Questionnaire
Authors: Yang Weipeng , Du Yingqiao , Wu Rongxiu , Xiang Sixuan
Published: October 2022

Implementing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in early childhood education has received increasing attention in recent years. STEM process skills developed during the early years have lifelong positive effects on young children. In this study, we developed the Children’s STEM Habits of Mind Questionnaire (CSHMQ) and validated it in a sample of 231 Chinese preschoolers (Mage = 4.77 years, SD = 1.19). Items in the questionnaire were generated from literature and selected based on the factor analysis to ensure the scope, content, and construct validity of the scale. Results revealed Science Process Skills, Encoding and Decoding Skills, and Engineering and Numeracy Skills as the three dimensions of the questionnaire with high internal reliability. The total score of the questionnaire and the three sub-factor scores were all positively correlated with children’s age, which demonstrates its preliminary validity. CSHMQ provides a professional tool for early childhood researchers and practitioners to assess children’s STEM process skills, thus providing evidence to plan and adjust STEM pedagogical practices to better promote children’s development.
Influence Mechanism of Gluing Process on the Strength of Clinch-Adhesive Hybrid Joining Process of Steel/Aluminum Plates
Authors: Wang Menghan , Du Menglong , Chen Yifeng , Han Yan , Li Lei
Published: October 2022

To solve the problems of low strength and unsatisfactory connection quality of single joining technology, a method of clinch-adhesive hybrid joining of steel/aluminum sheets with partially glued and inclined wall die was proposed. Al5052 aluminum alloy and Q235 steel were used as research objects, finite element simulation combined with actual experiments was adopted, the effect of the gluing process on the strength of clinch-adhesive hybrid joints on the inclined wall die was explored, and the failure forms and failure mechanisms of the joints in shear and peel experiments were studied. Results showed that the effect of partially glued is better than that of complete gluing. And the partial gluing process is more effective than the complete gluing process. The interlock of partially glued hybrid joints was increased by 144\% compared to fully glued joints, but the neck thickness value was reduced by only 10.6\%. The shear strength and peel strength of partially glued hybrid joints are higher than fully glued hybrid joints and clinch joints. The failure mode of the hybrid joints under shear and peel loads is mixed failure composed of interface failure and upper sheet separation failure.
Impact of taste/smell disturbances on dietary intake and cachexia-related quality of life in patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Otani Hiroyuki , Amano Koji , Morita Tatsuya , Miura Tomofumi , Mori Naoharu , Tatara Ryohei , Kessoku Takaomi , Matsuda Yoshinobu , Tagami Keita , Mori Masanori , Taniyama Tomohiko , Nakajima Nobuhisa , Nakanishi Erika , Kako Jun , Shirado Akemi Naito , Yokomichi Naosuke , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: October 2022

Purpose
All five senses (i.e., sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch) are used to enjoy meals; however, impairments in sensory perception, which are common among cancer patients, seriously impact health and cause eating-related distress.
Methods
Using a self-report questionnaire, we surveyed patients with advanced cancer undergoing treatment at 11 palliative care centers. Multivariate analyses were conducted to explore the impact of taste and smell disturbances on dietary intake and cachexia-related quality of life (QOL). Dietary intake was assessed using the ingesta-Verbal/Visual Analog Scale, while taste and smell disturbances were assessed using an 11-point Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Cachexia-related QOL was assessed using the 12-item Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT) Anorexia/Cachexia Subscale.
Results
Overall, 378 patients provided consent to participate. After excluding patients with missing data, data were analyzed for 343 patients. Among them, 35.6% (n = 122; 95% CI 0.28–0.38) and 20.9% (n = 72; 95% CI 0.17–0.25) experienced disturbances in taste (NRS ≥ 1) and smell (NRS ≥ 1), respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that, independent of performance status and cancer cachexia, taste and smell disturbances were significantly associated with worse FAACT Anorexia/Cachexia Subscale scores and dietary intake.
Conclusion
More severe taste and smell disturbances were associated with poorer dietary intake and cachexia-related QOL. Diagnosing and treating such disturbances may improve dietary intake and cachexia-related QOL, regardless of performance status and cachexia. Additional research is required to establish effective treatment strategies for disturbances in taste and smell.
Magnetic Field and Nuclear Spin Influence on the DNA Synthesis Rate
Authors: Stovbun Sergey , Zlenko Dmitry , Bukhvostov Alexander , Vedenkin Alexander , Skoblin Alexey , Kuznetsov Dmitry , Buchachenko Anatoly
Published: October 2022

Chemical reactions can be isotope-sensitive and alter the isotope composition in the products concerning that in the initial compounds. Besides that, the rate and, probably, the pathway of certain reactions can depend on the nuclear spin of the atoms participating in the reaction. The sensitivity to the atoms' spin implies the sensitivity of the "spin-sensitive" reactions to the magnetic field as it is, regardless if this field is an external one or originated from the spin of some atoms. Here we demonstrate the effect of the external magnetic field on the enzymatic DNA synthesis together with the effect of the magnetic magnesium ions. The rate of DNA synthesis monotonously decreased with the external magnetic field intensity in presence of the non-magnetic magnesium ions. On the contrary, in the presence of the spin-bearing ions, the dependence of the rate on the magnetic field intensity was nonmonotonous and possess a distinct minimum at 800-1000 G. We also suggest a scheme explaining the observed effects.
Assessment of Pubertal Growth Spurt in Egyptian Adolescent Girls Using Middle Phalanx of the Middle Finger (MP3) and its Correlation with BoneRadiodensity. (Cross sectional study)
Authors: Alrubaie Hasan Abdullah , Elboghdady Dalia Mohamed , aziz Sahar Taher Abdel , Foda Manal Yehia
Published: October 2022

Objectives: to assess the pubertal growth spurt in Egyptian adolescent girls, using middle phalanx of the middle finger (MP3) skeletal maturity indicator. Additionally, to assess the (MP3) radiodensity and to correlate the bone radiodensity with pubertal stages.
Materials and methods: This study was carried out at Alexandria governorate, Egypt, between the period of 9/2016 till 9/2017. A total sample of 1257 girls were included, with an age range of (8 -14 years). Middle phalanx of the middle finger (MP3) was digitally radiographed for each subject, interpreted and assigned its MP3 stage. Radiodensity was measured for a total sample of 30 radiographs, selected randomly from each pubertal group of MP3 (pre, pubertal, post-pubertal).
Results: The results revealed that there was a statistically significant difference between mean age values at different MP3 growth stages. The mean age value of the peak of pubertal growth spurt represented by MP3 stage G were 11.21 ± 0.85 years old. There was a statistically significant difference between mean bone density values at different pubertal stages (pre-pubertal, pubertal, post-pubertal). Pre-pubertal stage showed the statistically significant lowest mean bone density.
Conclusions: There was a statistically significant difference between mean age values at different MP3 growth stages. The onset and peak of pubertal growth spurt (MP3-FG, MP3-G), in Egyptian girls were found to occur at 10.01 ± 0.91 and 11.21 ± 0.85 years respectively. Accordingly, most of growth modification treatment should be considered according to such age range, which represents the active growth period.
Clinical Relevance:
The (MP3) method is of easy execution and interpretation, and may be performed in any clinical setting with minimal radiation exposure. Therefore, it might be used for planning treatment timing in functional treatments. In addition to close monitoring of the maturity phases by longitudinal recordings.
Development of a Natural Language Processing Pipeline to Identify Histological Subtypes and Site of Cancer from Pathology Reports
Authors: Ng Faith Sze Ee , Low Guat Hwa , Tay See Boon , Tey Han Jieh , Leong Fun Loon , Thng Choon Hua , Tan Iain Bee Huat , Tan Ryan Shea Ying Cong
Published: October 2022

Purpose To develop a Natural Language Processing (NLP) pipeline with the ability to determine the histological subtype and site of a patient’s cancer from pathology reports. Methods A Spark NLP-based deep learning model pipeline was developed to perform named entity recognition (NER) and assertion status detection for histological subtypes before extracting key relations of interest to determine the site of a patient’s cancer from pathology reports. We assessed the ability of this NLP pipeline to extract histological subtypes and site of a patient’s cancer against manual curation of pathology reports. Results A total of 1358 reports from 474 patients seen at a single tertiary cancer centre were used in the development and validation of the pipeline. The NLP pipeline achieved a mean accuracy of 99.79% and an F1 score of 84.08% for NER of histological subtypes. The relation extraction (RE) model also achieved an average accuracy of 91.96% and an F1-score of 92.45% for key entity relations relevant to histological subtypes entities. Conclusion We developed an NLP pipeline that can extract the histological subtypes and relate them to the site of a patient’s cancer from free-text pathology reports with high accuracy. This has the potential to be deployed for both research and clinical quality processes.
Supplementation alpha glycerol monolaurate during late gestation and lactation enhanced sow performance, ameliorated milk composition, and improved growth of suckling piglets
Authors: Li Longxian , Wang Huakai , Dong Shuang , Ma Yongxi
Published: October 2022

Background: Physiological changes during lactation cause oxidative stress in sows, reduce immunity, and hamper the growth capacity of piglets. Alpha glycerol monolaurate (α-GML) has potential for improving the health of sows and the growth of suckling piglets.
Methods: Eighty sows were allocated randomly to four groups: basal diet and basal diets supplemented with 500, 1000, or 2000 mg/kg α-GML. The experiment started on d 85 of gestation and lasted until piglets were weaned on d 21 of lactation. The number of live-born piglets was standardized to 12 ± 1 per sow on day of parturition. On d 0 and 21 of lactation, body weight of piglets was measured and milk samples were obtained from sows, and serum samples and feces from piglets were obtained on d 21.
Results: Feed intake, backfat loss, and weaning estrus interval did not differ among the four groups of sows. Maternal α-GML supplementation increased (P < 0.05) the body weight of piglets at weaning. The IgA and IgG levels were greater (P < 0.05) in a quadratic manner in the milk of sows as dietary α-GML increased. Concerning fatty acid profile, C12:0, C15:0, C17:0, C18:2n6c, C18:3n3, C24:0, and C22:6n3 were higher (P < 0.05) in linear and quadratic manners in colostrum of sows-fed α-GML diets compared with the control sows. There was lower (P < 0.05) n-6: n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio in milk than in the control sows. Maternal α-GML increased the abundance of Firmicutes (P < 0.05) and decreased the abundance of Proteobacteria (P < 0.05) of piglet fecal microbiota.
Conclusions: Dietary supplementation with α-GML improved milk immunoglobulins and fatty acids of sows, thereby improving the health and growth of piglets.
HPLC-DAD Technique for the Quantification of A Recently Approved Anti-diabetic Triple Combination Along with Two Toxic Official Impurities: Toxicity Confirmation Aided by Molecular Docking Application
Authors: Bahgat Eman A. , Hashem Hisham , Saleh Hanaa , Kamel Ebraam B. , Eisaa Maya S.
Published: October 2022

Gliflozins and gliptins are two distinct groups of pharmacological drugs that reduce blood glucose levels in individuals with type II diabetes in various ways that may perform their functions harmoniously. Trijardy® tablet, which contains empagliflozin, linagliptin, and metformin, was recently approved. The scientific database does not yet have a method that is sensitive enough to quantify the aforementioned medications in the presence of metformin official toxic impurities melamine and cyanoguanidine. Molecular docking modeling was utilized in this work to further prove the toxicity of melamine. The five analytes listed before were quantified using RP-HPLC-diode array detector and a Zorbax® C8 column (4.6 × 250 mm, 5 μm) with isocratic mobile phase composed of acetonitrile and 0.05 M potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer, which had been treated by ο-phosphoric acid to restore a pH of 4.0 (90:10, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.2 mL/min and the eluted peaks were scanned at 250 nm. The utilization of the simplest isocratic elution mode give the current technique a significant time-and cost-saving benefit. The current method can quantify the triple therapy agents in the presence of each other as well as with two official toxic impurities of metformin in one short analytical run.
The Development of a Proof-of-Concept Physician-Driven Informatics Consult System for the Individualized Treatment of Patients with Orthopaedic Conditions
Authors: Singh Akanksha , Schooley Benjamin , Lindros Sydney H. , Brooks John M. , Kissenberth Michael , Pill Stephan , Faucher Gregory , Daly Charles , Jeray Kyle , Floyd Sarah B.
Published: October 2022

Background: The diversity and variation of patient data now increasingly documented in Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems can be used to generate evidence about which treatments work and for whom they work. The objective of this work was to demonstrate proof-of-concept of a physician-driven informatics consult system which can drive improvements in the quality and safety of orthopaedic care. The informatics consult system allows for physicians to perform dynamic searches and receive immediate data summaries of similar, previously treated patients at the point of care. As a first use case, we apply our informatics consult prototype to the treatment of acute proximal humerus fractures (PHF).
Methods: We used an EHR-based, simulated patient data file to develop the informatics consult system prototype, ICSCEDIT (Informatics Consult System for Comparative Effectiveness Data for Individualized Treatment). We developed a user interface for physicians to define similar patient groups or reference classes, and we use comparative effectiveness research methodology and visual analytics to summarize outcomes for patients under treatment alternatives. Candidate wireframes were reviewed by the research and clinical team members in iterative user experience phases, each phase employing 1) prototype design and demonstration, 2) collection and documentation of expert/user feedback, and 3) prototype redesign based on feedback.
Results: ICSCEDIT was designed with a series of patient characteristic filters that can be applied to subset historical patient records into similar cohorts matching the index patient of interest. A total of 14 patient filters across demographic, fracture characteristics, and patient comorbidities are included. The evidence for patient reference classes, displayed by treatment group, appears in a series of three tabs. The first tab displays treatment rates of initial surgery and conservative management for the reference class. The second tab contains summaries of patient-reported outcome measures presented by treatment group and the third tab displays summaries of healthcare utilization over the year following the PHF injury.
Conclusion: We describe a prototype of an informatics consult system for orthopaedic medicine. Informatics consult systems that enable learning from historical treatment decisions and outcomes holds great potential for improving the quality of care for all orthopaedic patients.
A method of predicting the magnitude and failure time of a
Authors: WANG JEEN-HWA
Published: October 2022

Let T and M be, respectively, the precursor time of a certain precursor and the magnitude of a forthcoming earthquake. Observations may lead to a relationship of T versus M in a form of log(T)=a+bM. In this study, we will explore the physical basis of the relationship. Based on the log(T)−M relationships of two different precursors, we propose a method to predict the magnitude and failure time of the forthcoming earthquake. A testing example based on the log(T)−M relationships of presiemic radon concentration anomalies and gamma-ray emission changes observed at respective monitoring stations in Taiwan is given in this study. Results strongly confirm a high possibility of predicting the magnitude and failure time of a forthcoming earthquake just from the observed occurrence times of two different precursors based on their log(T)−M relationships.
Regional terrain-based VS30 prediction models for China
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Ren Yefei , Wen Ruizhi , Wang Hongwei , Ji Kun
Published: October 2022

Time-averaged shear-wave velocity to 30 m (VS30) is commonly used in ground motion models as a parameter for evaluating site effects. This study used a collection of boreholes in Beijing, Tianjin, Guangxi, Guangdong, and three other municipalities and provinces, which were divided into three regions with reference to the seismic ground motion parameter zonation map of China, to establish VS30 prediction models based on terrain categories. Regional effects were verified by comparing morphometric parameters (topographic slope, surface texture, and local convexity) thresholds and terrain classification maps obtained from the global digital elevation model (DEM) data and the regional DEM data of the three regions. Additionally, VS30 prediction models for the three regions using both types of terrain classification maps were established and analyzed comparatively to provide credible regional VS30 models for China. Through analysis of the correlations between the measured VS30 values and the predicted VS30 values, and with consideration of the geological characteristics of the boreholes, the VS30 prediction models based on terrain classification maps from regional data were finally applied in developing regional VS30 models for China. Intercomparison of the VS30 prediction models for the three regions indicated that subregional consideration is necessary in terrain classification. Finally, a spatial analysis method adopting inverse distance weighting of the residuals was used to update the initial VS30 models. The developed VS30 models could be used both in developing regional ground motion models and in the construction of earthquake disaster scenarios.
Mechanisms of the DNA Damage Repair Gene Work on Elevated α/β ratio after Hypofractionated Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Cui Ming , Chen Qiong , Gao Xianshu , Sun Deyu
Published: October 2022

Purpose: Our previous study showed that the linear quadratic (LQ) model appeared to be inappropriate for high doses per fraction owing to α/β ratio tending to become higher when the dose per fraction increased. In order to verify this conclusion, we explored the mechanisms for the elevated α/β ratio after hypofractionated radiotherapy.
Materials and Methods: We selected two prostate cancer cell lines DU145 and PC3:
1) Draw the cell survival curve to calculate the α/β ratio, and then use biological effective dose (BED) formula to convert fractionated radiation dose into equivalent single hypofractionated radiation dose (calculated values) comparing with that on the survival curve (actual values).
2) Western Blot and laser confocal immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of γ-H2AX and RAD51 after different fractionated modes of radiation at different time points.
Results:
1) When fractionated radiation dose was converted into equivalent single hypofractionated radiation dose, the ability of hypofractionated radiation was overestimated. If a larger α/β ratio is used, the discrepancy tended to become smaller.
2) Compared with fractionated radiation, the results showed that the expression of γ-H2AX was higher after 30min, 6 h and 24h after single hypofractionated radiation. Meanwhile, the expression of RAD51 lasted for 24 hours and the DNA damage still existed in single hypofractionated radiation.
3) The results also showed that the expression of γ-H2AX decreased slightly after 24 hours of fractionated radiation compared with that of 6 hours, and there was no difference in single hypofractionated radiation between 6 hours and 24 hours.
Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that after single hypofractionated radiation, the irreparable damage in cells increased (that is, α value increased), and some repairable sublethal damage (β value) was converted into irreparable damage (α value). When α value increased and β value decreased, the ratio increased.
Does Progesterone Affect Perioperative Blood Loss during Posterior Spinal Fusion Surgeries in Female Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?: a retrospective study
Authors: Jiao Yang , Tan Haining , Wang Zhen , Zhao Junduo , Shen Jianxiong
Published: October 2022

Background: Menstruation is considered a contraindication for elective surgery for higher operative blood loss. Progesterone is often used to postpone menstruation to avoid surgery during menstruation. This study aimed to explore whether using progesterone to postpone menstruation affects perioperative blood loss in female patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) who underwent posterior spinal fusion (PSF) surgery.
Methods: A retrospective study was performed for female patients diagnosed with AIS who underwent PSF surgery between March 2013 and January 2021. Patients with irregular menstruation or before menarche,who used tranexamic acid, who underwent Schwab grade III–VI osteotomywere excluded. Patients scheduled to undergo PSF surgery from 2 days before menstruation to 3 days after menstruation were treated with progesterone preoperatively. The patients were divided into two groups according to progesterone use (group A, progesterone injection group; group B, control group). Demographic and surgical data including intraoperative blood loss (IBL), normalized blood loss (NBL), total blood loss (TBL), transfusion rate, perioperative complications, postoperative hospital stay,and preoperative coagulation function data.
Results:Group A included 41 patients, while group B included 165. The two groups were matched for age, height, weight, operation time, Risser sign, correction rate, mean curve Cobb angle, bending Cobb angle, and number of internal fixations, number of fused levels (all P >0.05). Regarding coagulation function, no significant difference was found between thrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, prothrombin time and platelet count. IBL, NBL and TBL were higher in group A; however, the difference was nonsignificant. Transfusion rate, perioperative complications, and postoperative hospital stay were not statistically different between groups.
Conclusion: Intramuscular injection of progesterone to postpone menstruation did not affect perioperative blood loss in female AIS patients who underwent PSF surgery. Furthermore, it did not increase the incidence of perioperative complications or prolong postoperative hospital stay. Therefore, it may be a safe method for AIS patients to undergo PSF surgery as scheduled.
Phytoglycogen-dsRNA nanoparticles demonstrate differential cytotoxicity and immunostimulatory potential in two ovarian cancer cell lines
Authors: Lewis A. , Tran A. , Aldor N.L. , Jadaa N. , Feng T. , Moore E. , DeWitte-Orr S.J. , Poynter S.J.
Published: October 2022

Background Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality in women, and only a small percentage of cases are caught at an early stage. Novel treatments with improved efficacy are needed to fight ovarian cancer and to overcome resistance to traditional therapies. Double-stranded (ds) RNA, including the synthetic polyinosinic cytidylic acid (poly (I:C), has shown promise as a cancer therapeutic. Two ovarian cancer cell lines were tested for their ability to produce an immune response to poly (I:C) delivered using a nanoparticle carrier, a biodegradable phytoglycogen derived from sweet corn, called nanodendrix (NDX). SKOV-3 and OVCAR-3 have been previously identified as dsRNA-resistant and dsRNA-sensitive, respectively. Results Firstly, NDX was found to effectively bind poly (I:C), at a w/w ratio of 2:1 NDX:poly (I:C), the resulting particles, poly (I:C)-NDX, were tested for biological activity through uptake and two therapeutic modes of action, cytotoxicity and stimulation of the innate immune response. Both cell lines bound poly (I:C)-NDX, as observed using immunocytochemistry. In OVCAR-3 poly (I:C)-NDX caused significant cell death, even at concentrations as low as 62.5ng/mL, measured using the cell viability indicator dye alamarBlue; no cell death was observed with poly (I:C) alone across all concentrations, up to 5µg/mL in SKOV-3 and 0.5µg/mL in OVCAR-3. In both OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3, poly (I:C)-NDX stimulated the production of an innate immune chemokine, CXCL10, at the transcript and protein levels, at significantly higher levels than poly (I:C) alone. Interestingly, in response to poly (I:C)-NDX SKOV-3 produced a more robust immune response compared and higher levels of capase-3/-7 activation compared to OVCAR-3, despite showing no significant cell death. Conclusions Poly (I:C)-NDX represents a robust and multifunctional therapy with demonstrated efficacy against a range of ovarian tumour cells, potentiating poly (I:C) and sensitizing resistant cells. Additionally, the SKOV-3 and OVCAR-3 combination represents a powerful comparative model to help unravel dsRNA-mediated immune responses in ovarian cancer cells.
Durable Queries over Non-synchronized Temporal Data
Authors: Xie Yanqi , Weng Wei , Li Jianmin
Published: October 2022

Temporal data are ubiquitous nowadays and efficient management of temporal data is of key importance. A temporal data typically describes the evolution of an object over time. One of the most useful queries over temporal data are the durable top-k queries. Given a time window, a durable top-k query finds the objects that are frequently among the best. Existing solutions to durable top-k queries assume that all temporal data are sampled at the same time points (i.e., at any time, there is a corresponding observed value for every temporal data). However, in many practical applications, temporal data are collected from multiple data sources with different sampling rates. In this light, we investigate the efficient processing of durable top-k queries over temporal data with different sampling rates.We propose an efficient sweep line algorithm to process durable top-k queries over non-synchronized temporal data. We conduct extensive experiments on two real datasets to test the performance of our proposed method. The results show that our methods outperforms the baseline solutions by a large margin.
Fragmented understanding: exploring the practice and meaning of informed consent in clinical trials in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Yen Hong Thi , Dang Thuan Trong , Lam Ngoc Bao Hong , Le Phuong Thanh , Nguyen Phu Hoan , Bull Susan , Kestelyn Evelyne , Nuil Jennifer Ilo van
Published: October 2022

Background
The informed consent process in clinical trials has been extensively studied to inform the development processes which protect research participants and encourage their autonomy. However, ensuring a meaningful informed consent process is still of great concern in many research settings due to its complexity in practice and interwined socio-cultural factors.
Objectives
This study explored the practices and meaning of the informed consent process in two clinial trials conducted by Oxford University Clinical Research Unit in collaboration with the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Methods
We used multiple data collection methods including direct observervations, in-depth interviews with study physicians and trial participants, review of informed consent documents from 2009 to 2018, and participant observation with patients’ family members. We recruited seven physicians and twenty-five trial participants into the study, of whom five physicians and thirteen trial participants completed in-depth interviews, and we held twenty-two direct observation sessions.
Results
We use the concept “fragmented understanding” to describe the nuances of understanding about the consent process and unpack underlying reasons for differing understandings.
Conclusions
Our findings show how practices of informed consent and fragemented understanding are shaped by trial participants’ characteristics and the socio-cultural context in which the trials take place.
HBV genotype-dependent association of HLA Variants with the Serodecline of HBsAg in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: a 14-year Follow-up Study
Authors: Chu Yu-Ju , Yang Hwai-I , Hu Hui-Han , Liu Jessica , Lin Yu-Ling , Chang Chia-Ling , Luo Wen-Sheng , Jen Chin-Lan , Chen Chien-Jen
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims Seroclearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is regarded as the functional cure of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). The relationship between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) variants, hepatitis B virus genotype, and longitudinal HBsAg serodecline remains to be explored.
Methods A total of 2498 HBeAg-seronegative CHB patients of the community-based REVEAL-HBV cohort were genotyped for rs1710 (HLA-G) and rs2770 (HLA-B) using TaqMan assay. Cox proportional hazard regression and generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze the association of HLA genetic variants with the rate of HBsAg seroclearance and longitudinal HBsAg serodecline.
Results Rs1710 G allele was differentially associated with the HBsAg seroclearance in genotype B [aRR (95% CI)=0.74 (0.56-0.98)] and genotype C [aRR (95%CI)=1.43 (1.08-1.88)] infection. Rs2770 G allele was associated with HBsAg seroclearance only in genotype B infection [aRR (95% CI)=0.69 (0.52-0.91)]. The alleles associated with HBsAg seroclearance were significant predictors for the serodecline of HBsAg levels in an HBV genotype-dependent manner (genotype B infection: rs1710, p=0.013; rs2770, p=0.0081; genotype C infection: rs1710, P=0.0452).
Conclusions Our results suggest both spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance and serodecline are modified by the interaction between HLA variants and HBV genotype.
Imaging-based 3D Particle Tracking System for Field Characterization of Particle Dynamics in Atmospheric Flows
Authors: Bristow Nathaniel , Li Jiaqi , Hartford Peter , Guala Michel , Hong Jiarong
Published: October 2022

A particle tracking velocimetry apparatus is presented that is capable of measuring three-dimensional particle trajectories across large volumes, of the order of several meters, during natural snowfall events. Field experiments, aimed at understanding snow settling kinematics in atmospheric flows, were conducted during the 2021/2022 winter season using this apparatus, from which we show preliminary results. An overview of the methodology, wherein we use a UAV-based calibration method, is provided, and analysis is conducted of a select dataset to demonstrate the capabilities of the system for studying inertial particle dynamics in atmospheric flows. A modular camera array is used, designed specifically for handling the challenges of field deployment during snowfall. This imaging system is calibrated using synchronized imaging of a UAV-carried target to enable measurements centered 10 m above the ground within approximately a 4 m x 4 m x 6 m volume. Using the measured Lagrangian particle tracks we present data concerning 3D trajectory curvature and acceleration statistics, as well as clustering behavior using Voronoi analysis. The limitations, as well as potential future developments, of such a system are discussed in the context of applications with other inertial particles.
Fabrication of cadmium-based imidazole zeolite nanostructure for the adsorption of Sunset Yellow dye from aqueous solution
Authors: Sarpiri Ahad Mirahmadi , Soltanolkottabi Fariba
Published: October 2022

Zeolitic-imidazole framework Cd-ZIF was synthesized and characterized. The synthesized zeolite was used in the sunset yellow (SY) adsorption. Impact of different variables on batch method as a function of solution pH, concentration of SY, dose of Cd-ZIF, contact time and temperature were analyzed and optimal conditions were determined. The point of the zeolite zero charge (pHPZC) was obtained 7.0. Langmuir and Freundlich models were employed by equilibrium data from SY adsorption process. The results showed that Freundlich model was fitted. The kinetics of adsorption indicated that SY adsorption followed pseudo-second-order model and chemisorption.
Temperament and Home Environment Affect ADHD and Internalizing in Preschoolers
Authors: Jamnik Matthew R. , Nethala Vijay Sam , DiLalla Lisabeth F.
Published: October 2022

Increasing prevalence of children’s attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and internalizing behaviors requires investigation into putative risk factors. This longitudinal project of 105 preschoolers examined influences of early life experiences (perinatal stressors, home environment) and individual differences (child temperament) on problem behaviors. Results demonstrated differences predicting to ADHD versus internalizing behaviors. Higher 5-year-old ADHD behavior was predicted by higher age 4 temperamental activity and a significant interaction between observed activity and temperamental effortful control. For children with low effortful control, higher age 4 observed activity corresponded with elevated 5-year-old ADHD behaviors. Conversely, for children in low chaos homes, greater age 4 temperamental activity significantly predicted fewer 5-year-old internalizing behaviors. These differential associations among preschoolers’ activity levels predicting to ADHD versus internalizing behaviors suggest that greater activity levels may be a risk for some children (e.g., low effortful control) but a protective factor for others (e.g., low household chaos). Clinical implications are discussed.
WITHDRAWN: Microplastic accumulation in aquatic insects of different feeding guilds collected from wastewater in Sohag Governorate, Egypt
Authors: Khdre Azza M. , Ramadan Somaia A. , Ashry Ali , Alaraby Mohamed
Published: October 2022

Microplastics (MPs) have been detected in many freshwater organisms because of increasing plastic contamination within the freshwater environment. However, the correlation between MPs in organisms and their surrounding environment still needs studies. This study investigates MP contamination in one of the wastewater ponds east of Sohag Governorate, Egypt. Four common freshwater insect families representing different feeding guilds were employed to detect MPs contamination. The collector-gatherer (Chironomidae, Chironomus sp.) recorded the highest MP load per gram wet weight. However, predators (Aeshnidae, Aeshna sp.) recorded the lowest one. A reverse trend was observed based on MP load per individual. Polyester fibers were the most common type of MPs followed by fragments (Polyethylene and polypropylene) in both sediment and water. However, only polyester fibers were found in the different insect taxa. The blue color was the predominant color in the water, sediment, and insect fauna. The mean length of fibers in the different insects was a little smaller than those in the surrounding environment. The presence of MPs in some examined insects (lower trophic levels) gives a possibility of transferring to higher levels following predation. Therefore, further studies should be carried out along different feeding groups of higher levels to detect the potential risk of MPs on different freshwater fauna.
Deploying Vaccine Distribution Sites for Improved Accessibility and Equity to Support Pandemic Response
Authors: Li George Zhaoqi , Li Ann , Marathe Madhav , Sriniva Aravind , Tsepenekas Leonidas , Vullikanti Anil
Published: October 2022

In response to COVID-19, many countries have mandated social distancing and banned large group gatherings in order to slow down the spread of SARS-CoV-2. These social interventions along with vaccines remain the best way forward to reduce the spread of SARS CoV-2. In order to increase vaccine accessibility, states such as Virginia have deployed mobile vaccination centers to distribute vaccines across the state. When choosing where to place these sites, there are two important factors to take into account: accessibility and equity. We formulate a combinatorial problem that captures these factors and then develop efficient algorithms with theoretical guarantees on both of these aspects. Furthermore, we study the inherent hardness of the problem, and demonstrate strong impossibility results. Finally, we run computational experiments on real-world data to show the efficacy of our methods.
Development of novel microsatellite markers for population differentiation and detection of natural selection in wild populations of Butter catfish, Ompok bimaculatus (Bloch, 1794)
Authors: Chowdhury Labrechai Mog , Chaturvedi Shradha , Mandal Sangeeta , Kumar Rajesh , Singh Rajeev Kumar , Lal Kuldeep Kumar , Mohindra Vindhya
Published: October 2022

Background: Butter catfish (Ompok bimaculatus) is a preferred species in South East Asia, with huge aquaculture potential. However, there is limited information about genetic stock composition due to insufficient markers. The goal of this study was to develop de novo microsatellite markers.
Methods and Results: For sequencing, genomic SMRT bell libraries (1.5 Kbp size) were prepared for O. bimaculatus. A total of 114 SSR containing sequences were used for primer designing and tested. Polymorphic loci were validated by genotyping 83 individuals from four distant riverine populations, viz., Brahmaputra, Bichiya, Gomti and Kaveri. A total of 30 microsatellite loci were polymorphic, of which, five were found to be associated with functional genes and eight (four positive and four negatives) loci were found to be under selection pressure. A total of 115 alleles were detected in all loci and PIC ranged from 0.539 to 0.927 and pair-wise FST values from 0.1267 to 0.26002 (p<0.001), with overall FST value of 0.17047, indicating presence of population sub-structure. Cross-species transferability of 29 loci (96.67%) was successful in congener species, O. pabda.
Conclusion: The novel SSR markers developed in this study will facilitate stock characterization of natural populations, to be used in future selection breeding programs and planning conservation strategies in these species. Identified non-neutral markers will give insights into the effect of local adaptation on genetic differentiation in the natural population of this species.