bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Outcome Analysis of Adolescents and Young Adults Receiving Treatment from a Tertiary Cancer Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Mamun Khan Abdullah Al , Akhtar Parveen Shahida , Kabir Choudhury Shah Md Roushan , Rahman Khan Md Mahbubur , Bose Gouranga , Pervin Mst Wahida
Published: March 2022

Background: Malignancies in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are increasing day by day with increasing their death occurrences but a few clinical and epidemiological data from developing countries. There are 72006601.45(44.2%) people under this 15-39 years age group in Bangladesh. They are in vital age group not only for their own development but also for their country and for the world. This study was aimed to find out the outcome of treatment and causes of death.
Methods: The study was an observational study. All histologically confirmed cancer patients aged 15-39 years who completed treatment under medical oncology department in National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital (NICRH) from Jan.2016 to Dec.2017(24 months). Of them 593 patient were included for the study. Their follow up were taken over phone or departmental follow up registries up to May, 2019. Information was prospectively studied.
Results: Total 593 patients were enrolled for this study. Of them, male(M) 295(49.75%), female(F)298(50.25%) and M: F=1:1.01. After follow up, it was documented that 170(28.67%) patients were untraceable whose 63(10.62%) patients had no contact number. Among the remaining patients 473, 170(35.94%) patients were died due to anorexia 162(95.3%), both nausea and vomiting 90(53%), pain and fever 65(38.24%), diarrhea 57(33.53%), respiratory distress 38(22.35%), cachexia 37(21.76%), bleeding and generalized swelling 18(10.60%), opportunistic infection 10(5.88%), stroke 3(1.176%), surgical complication 2(1.18%). Of the died patient’s male were 96, female was 74 and M: F death ratio was 1.3:1. The leading causes of death, according to specific disease, were lung cancer 11(61%), head neck cancer 12(57%), sarcoma 56(46%), GIT (gastrointestinal tract) cancer 39(40.63%) and leukemia 12(35%). Least death occurred in GCT (germ cell tumor) 1(4.34%) and lymphoma 7(9%). Alive patients were 240. Of them male were 84, female was 156 and the ratio was M:F=1:1.86. According to specific disease, the highest survival was in testicular malignancy 18(85.71%), breast cancer 88(71%), FGT (female genital tract) 26(70%), lymphoma 44(59%) and GIT malignancy 42(43.75%).
Conclusion: In AYA the death occurrences were 170(35.94%) and tract out of follow up were 170(28.67%). This high death occurrence dangerously alarming for developing countries as youth are majority of total population in developing countries. So Methods should be searched to reduce the AYA death occurrences.
TAJ 2021; 34: No-2: 108-113
Atribuições e dificuldades apresentadas pelo enfermeiro do centro cirúrgico
Authors: Santos João Victor Natalino Cardozo dos , Gomes Rubens Semione de Souza , Barbosa Italo Everton Bezerra , Mota Breno de Souza , Fonseca Alicia Ribeiro , Andrade Emmanuele Neuza Moreira de , Barboza Samara Cardozo do Nascimento , Melo Fabrício de Souza , França Irlane Ferreira , Rocha Izabel Cruz da , Lira Felipe Chrystian de Figueiredo , Maciel Misaele Silva , Almeida Jéssica de Souza , Rodrigues Antônio José Paulo da Silva , Silva Vitoria Diniz Bezerra Lúcio da
Published: March 2022

O Centro Cirúrgico (CE) é uma estrutura de alta complexidade, que possui acesso restrito, com normas e rotinas próprias, se constituindo assim em uma unidade hospitalar singular. Frente a isso, a seguinte pesquisa tem por objetivo abordar as principais atribuições e dificuldades apresentadas pelo profissional enfermeiro dentro do Centro Cirúrgico. A seguinte pesquisa corresponde a um estudo descritivo, com abordagem metodológica qualitativa, utilizando como técnica a Revisão Integrativa de Literatura em conjunto com a estratégia PICO para formulação da pergunta norteadora. A pesquisa foi elaborada entre os meses de setembro e outubro de 2021 nas bases de dados disponíveis e indexadas dentro da Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde, sendo: MEDLINE; LILACS, e BDENF, por meio da junção de três Descritores em Saúde, cruzados com o operador booleano “AND”: Centros Cirúrgicos AND, Papel do Profissional de Enfermagem AND, Enfermagem, sendo encontrados 440 artigos na totalidade, após os critérios foram selecionados 10 artigos para compor está revisão. O enfermeiro é o profissional capacitado para gerenciar todo o processo anestésico-cirúrgico em conjunto com o processo assistencial prestado ao paciente durante o período perioperatório; No que depender da dimensão do CC o enfermeiro pode exercer também funções de coordenador, desempenhando funções técnico-administrativas e gerenciais. Logo, espera-se que a presente pesquisa possa servir de subsídio para nortear as diretrizes políticas e públicas mediante as funções exercidas por esses profissionais dentro do CC, visando a obtenção de ótimos resultados quanto à segurança do paciente dentro do CC.
Dermatite granulomatosa por Halicephalobus gingivalis em um equino no Nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Artefio Martins de , Souto Erick Platiní Ferreira de , Nascimento Maria Jussara Rodrigues do , Silveira Gian Libânio da , Diniz Assis Neto Silva , Dantas Antônio Flávio Medeiros , Galiza Glauco José Nogueira de
Published: March 2022

Descrevem-se os aspectos clínicos e anatomopatológicos de um caso de dermatite granulomatosa por Halicephalobus gingivalis em um equino no Nordeste do Brasil. O animal apresentou nódulos cutâneos multifocais, não pruriginosos e indolores, predominantemente dispostos nas regiões abdominal, torácica, cervical e facial, e na superfície lateral dos membros torácicos e pélvicos. Fragmentos cutâneos foram coletados, fixados em formol a 10% tamponado, clivados, processados rotineiramente para histopatologia e enviados para avaliação anatomopatológica. Macroscopicamente observaram-se nódulos exofíticos, bem delimitados e com superfície alopécica, multilobulada e crostosa, medindo de 0,5 a 1 cm de diâmetro. Ao corte, os nódulos eram macios, com superfície amarelada, compacta e lisa. Na histopatologia, observou-se dermatite nodular e granulomatosa, focalmente extensa, acentuada, associada a parasitas nematódeos rabditiformes, morfologicamente compatíveis com H. gingivalis. As infecções por H. gingivalis devem ser incluídas no diagnóstico diferencial de dermatites granulomatosas em equinos. O tratamento com ivermectina associado a excisão cirúrgica dos nódulos demonstrou-se eficiente.
Penerapan Fungsi Organik Dalam Manajemen Fungsi Command Pada Proses Pembelajaran Single Swinging Derrick’s Operational
Authors: Kusuma Ade Chandra , Pratiwi Yudia , Poerwanto Joko , Juliartayasa I Putu
Published: March 2022

Pembelajaran konteks dengan melakukan peran operator crane dalam memperagakan command berupa aba aba symbol dapat membentuk kemampuan secara kognitif, afektif dan psikomotorik dalam hal Stevedoring. Praktik kemampuan dalam memimpin yang dilakukan di Crane and Holds Model milik STIMARYO dilakukan oleh taruna Studi Nautika dalam pembelajaran single swinging derrick. Adapun tujuan dalam penelitian ini adalah sebagai evaluasi pembelajaran dalam mencapai kompetensi operasional crane dengan capaian Kriteria Ketuntasan Minimal 75. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian tindakan kelas. Metode pembelajaran yang digunakan dalam pencapaian indikator kompetensi operator crane yaitu dengan praktik atau atau role play dengan studi kasus. Dengan menggunakan metode role play atau bermain peran yang dipersiapkan oleh dosen atau instruktur berupa skenario pembelajaran yang dilakukan secara berkelompok. Dalam pelaksanaan skenario pembelajaran ini memiliki indikator berupa ketercapaian kompetensi serta kemampuan command bagi taruna tingkat II semester tiga pada prodi Studi Nautika Sekolah Tinggi Maritim Yogyakarta di media Crane and Holds milik Sekolah Tinggi Maritim Yogyakarta. Hasil yang dicapai terbentuknya kompetensi Taruna dalam kemampuan command dibidang pelayaran khususnya Prodi Studi Nautika.
Strategi Manajemen Coping Program Pembinaan Fisik Dan Mental Dalam Mempersiapkan Calon Taruna/Taruni Baru
Authors: Karjono Karjono , Utami Tini , Diah Kusumawati Evyana , Kusumaningrum Devi
Published: March 2022

Stres pada taruna/taruni baru disebabkan  kesulitan  dalam melakukan penyesuaian  diri dibidang  akademik maupun  non  akademik. Binafital bagaian dari syarat wajib  untuk taruna/taruni  baru sebelum mereka  dikatakan  sebagai taruna/taruni. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui strategi manajemen  coping program pembinaan fisik dan mental dalam mempersiapkan calon taruna/taruni baru Politeknik Bumi Akpelni. Metode penelitian  yang digunakan adalah metode penelitian kualitatif berdasarkan  observasi langsung kepada narasumber. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan manajemen coping stres diketahui bahwa subjek berjenis kelamin laki-laki 75,6 % lebih banyak menggunakan problem focused coping dibandingkan menggunakan emotion focused coping 24,4 %. Subjek berjenis kelamin perempuan 87% secara keseluruhan lebih menggunakan problem focused coping dibandingkan menggunakan emotion focused coping 23%.
Fair and Square Redistricting
Authors: Fox James
Published: March 2022

The “Guide to Fair Maps” is written for citizens, advocates and commissioners, as well as legislators, lawyers and judges. This policy guide (1) discusses why Fair Maps are so important to preserve our representative democracy, (2) describes a straightforward test for gerrymandering; and (3) offers a procedure to eradicate gerrymandering while achieving other desired redistricting criteria. The guide contains a broad range of illustrative maps. An associated research paper, “Fair and Square Redistricting,” details, justifies and illustrates a new procedure for constructing legislative district maps. This approach is transparent, nonpartisan, and straightforward. The procedure builds maps where the districts are compact and the maps are verified to be free of gerrymandering.
Preparing for the First Solo Teaching Experience: An Alternative to Learning as You Go
Authors: Boyes Christina , Guerrero Mario , Lamb Matt , Mendoza Mary Anne S.
Published: March 2022

First-time instructors often lack necessary resources when preparing and teaching their first course, resulting in suboptimal outcomes for instructors and students. While pedagogical induction programs can assist first-time instructors, access to these opportunities are unequal (McCormack, Gore, and Thomas, 2007). Additionally, demographic and situational factors can hinder first-time instructors in the course of preparing their first class. Consequently, graduate students and junior scholars are more likely to learn as they go during their first teaching experience, making them more susceptible to negative experiences while balancing research and service responsibilities (Assuncao Flores, 2006; Gavish and Friedman, 2010; Meanwell and Kleiner, 2014). We present various considerations that first-time instructors can ponder before, during, and after course instruction that may greatly improve the experience. This manuscript is part of Strategies for Navigating Graduate School and Beyond, a forthcoming volume for those interested in pursuing graduate education in political science (Fall 2022 publication).
Quantum Determinism Does Not Preclude Free Will
Authors: Dolgikh Serge
Published: March 2022

We analyze the relationship between quantum determinism and free will from the position of the computational theory, with the conclusion that a fully deterministic on a quantum level Universe does not preclude the existence of free will agents.
Effect of Topology and Geometric Structure on Collective Motion in the Vicsek Model
Authors: McClure James E. , Abaid Nicole
Published: March 2022

In this work, we explore how the emergence of collective motion in a system of particles is influenced by the structure of their domain. Using the Vicsek model to generate flocking, we simulate two-dimensional systems that are confined based on varying obstacle arrangements. The presence of obstacles alters the topological structure of the domain where collective motion occurs, which, in turn, alters the scaling behavior. We evaluate these trends by considering the scaling exponent and critical noise threshold for the Vicsek model, as well as the associated diffusion properties of the system. We show that obstacles tend to inhibit collective motion by forcing particles to traverse the system based on curved trajectories that reflect the domain topology. Our results highlight key challenges related to the development of a more comprehensive understanding of geometric structure's influence on collective behavior.
Neurotensin and Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Tscharre Maximilian , Farhan Serdar , Freynhofer Matthias K. , Leutner Michael , Baumgartner-Parzer Sabina , Tentzeris Ioannis , Vogel Birgit , Tinhofer Florian , Rohla Miklos , Weiss Thomas W. , Huber Kurt , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra
Published: March 2022

Background

Neurotensin is involved in fatty acid and glucose metabolism and promotes the development of obesity and diabetes. These associations appear to be more pronounced in women. We investigated the association of neurotensin with long-term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

We included 452 consecutive patients [144 (31.9%) females] undergoing PCI for ACS or CCS. Plasma samples drawn after PCI were analyzed for neurotensin with an enzyme-linked immunoassay. As primary endpoint, a composite of MACE including all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and non-fatal stroke during 7 years of follow-up was investigated. As secondary endpoint, we investigated all-cause death.

Results

Neurotensin levels did not differ between male and female patients (p = 0.560). MACE occurred in 150 (33.2%) patients. Restricted cubic splines demonstrated a U-shaped association of log-transformed neurotensin with the primary and secondary endpoint. Therefore, we dichotomized our cohort according to tertiles of log-transformed neurotensin. In Kaplan-Meier analysis including the total cohort and restricted to male patients log- neurotensin tertiles were not associated with MACE (both p > 0.05). Moreover, in the overall cohort and in male patients multivariable Cox regression analysis log-neurotensin tertiles were not associated with MACE or with all-cause death (all p > 0.05). However, in female patients log-neurotensin was associated with MACE in Kaplan-Meier analysis (log-rank p = 0.013). Also, after multivariable adjustment female patients in the first tertile had a significantly increased risk for MACE compared to female patients in the second tertile [HR 3.84 (95% CI 1.71–8.60), p = 0.001]. There was tendency for increased risk in female patients in the third tertile compared to the second tertile [HR 2.14 (95% CI 0.97–4.73), p = 0.058]. Moreover, in female patients the [first and the third tertile of log- neurotensin were associated with all-cause death 1s vs. 2nd tertile: HR 3.03 (95% CI 1.21–7.63), p = 0.018; 3rd vs. 2nd tertile: HR 3.01 (95% CI 1.22–7.44), p = 0.016].

Conclusion

In female patients with CAD undergoing PCI, neurotensin has a U-shaped relationship with adverse outcomes. These data suggest a sex specific association between neurotensin and long-term adverse events after PCI.
Case Report: Disappearance of Late Gadolinium Enhancement and Full Functional Recovery in a Young Patient With SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine-Related Myocarditis
Authors: Korosoglou Grigorios , Nunninger Peter , Giusca Sorin
Published: March 2022

Acute myocarditis was recently demonstrated in previously healthy young male patients after receipt of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Herein, we report on a 21-year-old man who presented with acute fatigue, myalgia, and chest pain 2 days after his second SARS-CoV-2 vaccination with BNT162b2. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) showed acute myocarditis, with mildly impaired LV-function and abundant subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Control CMR after 3 months showed full functional recovery and complete disappearance of LGE. The benefits of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination may significantly exceed the very rare and, in this case, fully reversible adverse effects.
Insulin Allergy to Detemir Followed by Rapid Onset of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Teo Chong Boon , Tan Pek Yan , Lee Shan Xian , Khoo Joan , Tan Jun Guan , Ang Su Fen , Tan Sze Hwa , Tay Tunn Lin , Tan Eberta , Lim Su Chi , Boehm Bernhard O. , Loh Wann Jia
Published: March 2022

The management of diabetes mellitus in an insulin-dependent patient is challenging in the setting of concomitant antibody-mediated-insulin hypersensitivity. We report a case of a 62-year-old woman with pre-existing type 2 diabetes mellitus of 10 years duration who developed type 3 hypersensitivity reaction to insulin analogue detemir, and subsequently, severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). She was C-peptide negative and was diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes. Despite increasing dose adjustments, insulin-meal matching, and compliance with insulin, she experienced episodes of unexpected hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia. The development of rash after detemir initiation and rapid progression to DKA suggests an aberrant immune response leading to the insulin allergy and antibody-induced interference with insulin analogues. Glycaemic control in the patient initially improved after being started on subcutaneous insulin infusion pump with reduced insulin requirements. However, after a year on pump therapy, localised insulin hypersensitivity reactions started, and glycaemic control gradually deteriorated.
Durability of Thermally Modified Western Hemlock Lumber Against Wood Decay Fungi
Authors: Presley Gerald , Cappellazzi Jed , Eastin Ivan
Published: March 2022

The chemical modification of wood is gaining popularity as a treatment to increase wood durability, particularly in jurisdictions where restrictions on the use of chemical impregnation are increasing. This work measures the impact of thermal modification of western hemlock lumber durability against decay fungi. Western hemlock lumber was thermally modified using a cycle with temperatures ranging from 80 to 170°C and was cut into standard 19 mm blocks for testing according to AWPA method E10. Performance of thermally modified wood was measured against two brown rot fungi, Rhodonia placenta and Gloeophyllum trabeum and one white rot fungus, Trametes versicolor over an 8, 12, and 16-week incubation period. Unmodified western hemlock wood, untreated southern pine and copper azole-treated southern pine were included for comparison. Thermal modification resulted in a slight improvement in durability against Gloeophyllum trabeum, but not Rhodonia placenta compared to untreated western hemlock which caused 50.3 and 52.2% mass loss in thermally modified western hemlock after 16 weeks, respectively. T. versicolor caused a 21.2% mass loss after 16 weeks, but this value was not statistically different than untreated western hemlock (p = 0.46). For comparison, copper azole-treated southern pine showed only an average of 0 and 15% mass loss when exposed to G. trabeum or R. placenta for 16 weeks, respectively. Together, these data indicate that while there may be some protective effect of thermally modifying western hemlock, further development of treatment processes are needed to improve the durability of thermally modified western hemlock.
Feature Compression Applications of Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zou Meiling , Jiang Sirong , Wang Fang , Zhao Long , Zhang Chenji , Bao Yuting , Chen Yonghao , Xia Zhiqiang
Published: March 2022

With the rapid development of molecular breeding technology and many new varieties breeding, a method is urgently needed to identify different varieties accurately and quickly. Using this method can not only help farmers feel convenient and efficient in the normal cultivation and breeding process but also protect the interests of breeders, producers and users. In this study, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data of 533 Oryza sativa, 284 Solanum tuberosum and 247 Sus scrofa and 544 Manihot esculenta Crantz were used. The original SNPs were filtered and screened to remove the SNPs with deletion number more than 1% or the homozygous genotype 0/0 and 1/1 number less than 2. The correlation between SNPs were calculated, and the two adjacent SNPs with correlation R2 > 0.95 were retained. The genetic algorithm program was developed to convert the genotype format and randomly combine SNPs to calculate a set of a small number of SNPs which could distinguish all varieties in different species as fingerprint data, using Matlab platform. The successful construction of three sets of fingerprints showed that the method developed in this study was effective in animals and plants. The population structure analysis showed that the genetic algorithm could effectively obtain the core SNPs for constructing fingerprints, and the fingerprint was practical and effective. At present, the two-dimensional code of Manihot esculenta Crantz fingerprint obtained by this method has been applied to field planting. This study provides a novel idea for the Oryza sativa, Solanum tuberosum, Sus scrofa and Manihot esculenta Crantz identification of various species, lays foundation for the cultivation and identification of new varieties, and provides theoretical significance for many other species fingerprints construction.
Antibody-Mediated Inhibition of Insulin-Degrading Enzyme Improves Insulin Activity in a Diabetic Mouse Model
Authors: Fursht Ofir , Liran Mirit , Nash Yuval , Medala Vijay Krishna , Ini Dor , Royal Tabitha Grace , Goldsmith Guy , Nahary Limor , Benhar Itai , Frenkel Dan
Published: March 2022

Diabetes is a metabolic disease that may lead to different life-threatening complications. While insulin constitutes a beneficial treatment, its use may be limited due to increased degradation and an increase in side effects such as weight gain and hypoglycemia. Small molecule inhibitors to insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) have been previously suggested as a potential treatment for diabetes through their ability to reduce insulin degradation and thus increase insulin activity. Nevertheless, their tendency to bind to the zinc ion in the catalytic site of IDE may affect other important metalloproteases and limit their clinical use. Here, we describe the isolation of an IDE-specific antibody that specifically inhibits insulin degradation by IDE. Using phage display, we generated a human IDE-specific antibody that binds human and mouse IDE with high affinity and specificity and can differentiate between active IDE to a mutated IDE with reduced catalytic activity in the range of 30 nM. We further assessed the ability of that IDE-inhibiting antibody to improve insulin activity in vivo in an STZ-induced diabetes mouse model. Since human antibodies may stimulate the mouse immune response to generate anti-human antibodies, we reformatted our inhibitory antibody to a “reverse chimeric” antibody that maintained the ability to inhibit IDE in vitro, but consisted of mouse constant regions, for reduced immunogenicity. We discovered that one intraperitoneal (IP) administration of the IDE-specific antibody in STZ-induced diabetic mice improved insulin activity in an insulin tolerance test (ITT) assay and reduced blood glucose levels. Our results suggest that antibody-mediated inhibition of IDE may be beneficial on improving insulin activity in a diabetic environment.
Long-Term Variability on Suspended Particulate Matter Loads From the Tributaries of the World’s Largest Choked Lagoon
Authors: Bortolin Eduardo C. , Távora Juliana , Fernandes Elisa H. L.
Published: March 2022

Continental freshwater contributions are the main long-term control on the variability of suspended particulate matter (SPM) concentrations in choked lagoons. The current work aims to assess the seasonal to interdecadal variability in SPM concentrations from Patos Lagoon tributaries, as a case study towards the understanding of tributaries contributions to coastal lagoons. Thus, an interdecadal dataset (1984–2020) was collected in the region of the tributaries of Patos Lagoon (southern Brazil), integrating Landsat series (653 scenes) and in situ measurements. SPM concentrations were estimated from the scenes using a semi-analytical multiwavelength algorithm, applied in the regions of the lower course of the tributaries. Results identified SPM concentrations variability in seasonal scales, enhanced by El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in interannual time scales, also influencing in interdecadal trends. The seasonal SPM concentration variability reached 50 g.m–3 to each tributary. Higher SPM concentration values occurred from winter to spring, enhanced during El Niño periods and frequently reaching annual means higher than 100 g.m–3. Periods from summer to autumn, however, presented lower SPM concentrations, especially during La Niña periods, when the mean annual SPM concentration remained mostly below 50 g.m–3. Seasonal and interannual (ENSO) forcings combined developed configurations of high input periods (HIP) and low input periods (LIP). During the LIP, the river plumes are limited to their tributary zone of influence and the whole lagoon has reduced SPM concentrations. During the HIP, the river plumes spread over the lagoon sub-environments, and the SPM concentrations of all tributaries reach the estuarine zone and the ocean. Thus, the mentioned natural phenomena influence the river plumes spreading, the SPM concentrations in the lagoon, and the export to the Atlantic Ocean in time scales varying from seasonal to interdecadal.
High Temperature Exposure Assessment of Graphene Oxide Reinforced Cement
Authors: Yan Jianwei , Wang Jiankang , Chen Hengyi , Xiang Ping
Published: March 2022

This study aims to carry out a high-temperature exposure assessment for graphene oxide (GO) reinforced cement in terms of weight loss, flexural strength, and compressive strength. Different additive amounts of GO in cement are experimentally studied to unfold its effect on enhancing the mechanical performance of prepared GO reinforced cement. Temperatures are chosen as room temperature, 200, 400, 600, and 800°C, corresponding to different reaction status of cement. It is found that as the temperature increases, the water evaporates from the GO reinforced cement. Evaporated quantity of water relies on the reaction status, and the relation between weight loss and temperature is provided. Benefiting from the bonding effects of GO, hydrated calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) is chemically produced and, thus, a reticular bridging system, which is greatly helpful to enhance the flexural strength, is formed. Unlike flexural strength, adding GO into cement statistically has little effect on the compressive strength, except when the temperature rises up to 800°C due to the occurrence of decarburization from dehydration.
Physician Experience in Technical Success of Achieving NPVR ≥ 80% of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation for Uterine Fibroids: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Gong Xue , Zhang Xinyue , Liu Dang , Yang Chao , Zhang Rong , Xiao Zhibo , Chen Wenzhi , Chen Jinyun
Published: March 2022

Objective

To evaluate the experience of the physician of the technical success in high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation of uterine fibroids with a nonperfused volume ratio (NPVR) of at least 80%.

Methods

Patients from a 20-center prospective study were enrolled in this study. In this study, among the 20 clinical centers, five centers had physician with >3 years of HIFU experience, and the other 15 centers initiated HIFU therapy <3 years, were defined as the experienced group and the inexperienced group, respectively. Technical success was defined as achieving NPVR ≥ 80% of uterine fibroids with no major complications and it was defined as the successful group; otherwise, it was defined as the unsuccessful group.

Results

A total of 1,352 patients were included at the age of 41.32 ± 5.08 years. The mean NPVR (87.48 ± 14.91%) was obtained in the inexperienced group (86.50 ± 15.76%) and in the experienced group (89.21 ± 13.12%), respectively. The multivariate analysis showed that the volume of uterus, location of fibroids, and physician experience were significantly correlated with technical success (p < 0.05). In the experienced group, 82.20% of uterine fibroids obtained NPVR ≥ 80%, compared with 75.32% in the inexperienced group, and the difference was significant (p = 0.003). The technical success rate of the experienced group was 82.00% which was higher than 75.20% of the inexperienced group (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

In technical success of achieving NPVR ≥ 80%, experience of the physician was positively correlated with technical success; NPVR and major complications for the inexperienced group were comparable to those of the experienced group from a clinical perspective; inexperienced physicians could reach NPVR ≥ 80% of sufficient ablation and were trustworthy in efficacy. Smaller uterus and fibroids of anterior wall were correlated with better technical success; experienced physicians still have better technical success when choosing patients with larger uterus, contributing to clinical decision-making and patient referral.
“CityQuest,” A Custom-Designed Serious Game, Enhances Spatial Memory Performance in Older Adults
Authors: Merriman Niamh A. , Roudaia Eugenie , Ondřej Jan , Romagnoli Matteo , Orvieto Ivan , O’Sullivan Carol , Newell Fiona N.
Published: March 2022

Spatial cognition is known to decline with aging. However, little is known about whether training can reduce or eliminate age-related deficits in spatial memory. We investigated whether a custom-designed video game involving spatial navigation, obstacle avoidance, and balance control would improve spatial memory in older adults. Specifically, 56 healthy adults aged 65 to 84 years received 10 sessions of multicomponent video game training, based on a virtual cityscape, over 5 weeks. Participants were allocated to one of three training conditions: the main intervention, the “CityQuest” group (n = 19), and two control groups, spatial navigation without obstacle avoidance (“Spatial Navigation-only” group, n = 21) and obstacle avoidance without spatial navigation (“Obstacles-only” group, n = 15). Performance on object recognition, egocentric and allocentric spatial memory (incorporating direction judgment tasks and landmark location tasks, respectively), navigation strategy preference, and executive functioning was assessed in pre- and post-intervention sessions. The results showed an overall benefit on performance in a number of spatial memory measures and executive function for participants who received spatial navigation training, particularly the CityQuest group, who also showed significant improvement on the landmark location task. However, there was no evidence of a shift from egocentric to allocentric strategy preference. We conclude that spatial memory in healthy older participants is amenable to improvement with training over a short term. Moreover, technology based on age-appropriate, multicomponent video games may play a key role in cognitive training in older adults.
The Clinical, Myopathological, and Genetic Analysis of 20 Patients With Non-dystrophic Myotonia
Authors: Wang Quanquan , Zhao Zhe , Shen Hongrui , Bing Qi , Li Nan , Hu Jing
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Non-dystrophic myotonias (NDMs) are skeletal muscle ion channelopathies caused by CLCN1 or SCN4A mutations. This study aimed to describe the clinical, myopathological, and genetic analysis of NDM in a large Chinese cohort.

Methods

We reviewed the clinical manifestations, laboratory results, electrocardiogram, electromyography, muscle biopsy, genetic analysis, treatment, and follow-up of 20 patients (from 18 families) with NDM.

Results

Cases included myotonia congenita (MC, 17/20) and paramyotonia congenita (PMC, 3/20). Muscle stiffness and hypertrophy, grip and percussion myotonia, and the warm-up phenomenon were frequently observed in MC and PMC patients. Facial stiffness, eye closure myotonia, and cold sensitivity were more common in PMC patients and could be accompanied by permanent weakness. Nine MC patients and two PMC patients had cardiac abnormalities, mainly manifested as cardiac arrhythmia, and the father of one patient died of sudden cardiac arrest. Myotonic runs in electromyography were found in all patients, and seven MC patients had mild myopathic changes. There was no difference in muscle pathology between MC and PMC patients, most of whom had abnormal muscle fiber type distribution or selective muscle fiber atrophy. Nineteen CLCN1 variants were found in 17 MC patients, among which c.795T>G (p.D265E) was a new variant, and two SCN4A variants were found in three PMC patients. The patients were treated with mexiletine and/or carbamazepine, and the symptoms of myotonia were partially improved.

Conclusions

MC and PMC have considerable phenotypic overlap. Genetic investigation contributes to identifying the subtype of NDM. The muscle pathology of NDM lacks specific changes.
Evaluating Spatial Hearing Using a Dual-Task Approach in a Virtual-Acoustics Environment
Authors: Salorio-Corbetto Marina , Williges Ben , Lamping Wiebke , Picinali Lorenzo , Vickers Deborah
Published: March 2022

Spatial hearing is critical for communication in everyday sound-rich environments. It is important to gain an understanding of how well users of bilateral hearing devices function in these conditions. The purpose of this work was to evaluate a Virtual Acoustics (VA) version of the Spatial Speech in Noise (SSiN) test, the SSiN-VA. This implementation uses relatively inexpensive equipment and can be performed outside the clinic, allowing for regular monitoring of spatial-hearing performance. The SSiN-VA simultaneously assesses speech discrimination and relative localization with changing source locations in the presence of noise. The use of simultaneous tasks increases the cognitive load to better represent the difficulties faced by listeners in noisy real-world environments. Current clinical assessments may require costly equipment which has a large footprint. Consequently, spatial-hearing assessments may not be conducted at all. Additionally, as patients take greater control of their healthcare outcomes and a greater number of clinical appointments are conducted remotely, outcome measures that allow patients to carry out assessments at home are becoming more relevant. The SSiN-VA was implemented using the 3D Tune-In Toolkit, simulating seven loudspeaker locations spaced at 30° intervals with azimuths between −90° and +90°, and rendered for headphone playback using the binaural spatialization technique. Twelve normal-hearing participants were assessed to evaluate if SSiN-VA produced patterns of responses for relative localization and speech discrimination as a function of azimuth similar to those previously obtained using loudspeaker arrays. Additionally, the effect of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the direction of the shift from target to reference, and the target phonetic contrast on performance were investigated. SSiN-VA led to similar patterns of performance as a function of spatial location compared to loudspeaker setups for both relative localization and speech discrimination. Performance for relative localization was significantly better at the highest SNR than at the lowest SNR tested, and a target shift to the right was associated with an increased likelihood of a correct response. For word discrimination, there was an interaction between SNR and word group. Overall, these outcomes support the use of virtual audio for speech discrimination and relative localization testing in noise.
Effects of Systemic Physiology on Mapping Resting-State Networks Using Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Abdalmalak Androu , Novi Sergio L. , Kazazian Karnig , Norton Loretta , Benaglia Tatiana , Slessarev Marat , Debicki Derek B. , Lawrence Keith St. , Mesquita Rickson C. , Owen Adrian M.
Published: March 2022

Resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) has gained popularity mainly due to its simplicity and potential for providing insights into various brain disorders. In this vein, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is an attractive choice due to its portability, flexibility, and low cost, allowing for bedside imaging of brain function. While promising, fNIRS suffers from non-neural signal contaminations (i.e., systemic physiological noise), which can increase correlation across fNIRS channels, leading to spurious rsFC networks. In the present work, we hypothesized that additional measurements with short channels, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, and end-tidal CO2 could provide a better understanding of the effects of systemic physiology on fNIRS-based resting-state networks. To test our hypothesis, we acquired 12 min of resting-state data from 10 healthy participants. Unlike previous studies, we investigated the efficacy of different pre-processing approaches in extracting resting-state networks. Our results are in agreement with previous studies and reinforce the fact that systemic physiology can overestimate rsFC. We expanded on previous work by showing that removal of systemic physiology decreases intra- and inter-subject variability, increasing the ability to detect neural changes in rsFC across groups and over longitudinal studies. Our results show that by removing systemic physiology, fNIRS can reproduce resting-state networks often reported with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Finally, the present work details the effects of systemic physiology and outlines how to remove (or at least ameliorate) their contributions to fNIRS signals acquired at rest.
Biosensors for Studying Neuronal Proteostasis
Authors: Dudanova Irina
Published: March 2022

Cellular health depends on the integrity and functionality of the proteome. Each cell is equipped with a protein quality control machinery that maintains protein homeostasis (proteostasis) by helping proteins adopt and keep their native structure, and ensuring the degradation of damaged proteins. Postmitotic cells such as neurons are especially vulnerable to disturbances of proteostasis. Defects of protein quality control occur in aging and have been linked to several disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. However, the exact nature and time course of such disturbances in the context of brain diseases remain poorly understood. Sensors that allow visualization and quantitative analysis of proteostasis capacity in neurons are essential for gaining a better understanding of disease mechanisms and for testing potential therapies. Here, I provide an overview of available biosensors for assessing the functionality of the neuronal proteostasis network, point out the advantages and limitations of different sensors, and outline their potential for biological discoveries and translational applications.
The Effect of Extracellular Superoxide Dismutase (SOD3) Gene in Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhang Yundi , Lu Xuan , Zhang Yueyang , Zhao Dongbo , Gong Haoming , Du Yuxin , Sun Hua
Published: March 2022

Background

The recognition of new diagnostic and prognostic biological markers for lung cancer, the most severe malignant tumor, is an essential and eager study. In a microenvironment, superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD3) can adjust active oxygen, and it refers to a secreted antioxidant enzyme. It was also found to be cancer-related, and in lung cancer, it was remarkably down-regulated. More and more new cancer research focuses on the function of SOD3. Despite this, there is no good description of SOD3 function in the LC progression.

Methods

Through bioinformatics analysis, we found that SOD3 was a possible novel lung cancer gene in this study. We analyzed data sets from Gene Expression Comprehensive Database (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and SOD3 expression was studied in lung cancer. This study estimated the SOD3 diagnosis and prognosis through gene expression differential display, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), enrichment and genomes (KEGG) analysis, and gene ontology (GO). Then in order to investigate the SOD3 presentation in lung cancer cells, we used Western Blot and also applied Flow cytometry to detect the impact of anti-tumor medicine on tumor cell apoptosis.

Results

We found that the expression level of SOD3 in lung cancer was low (P = 4.218E-29), while the survival of lung cancer patients with high SOD3 expression was shorter (LUSC p =0.00086, LUAD p=0.00038). According to the result of western blot, the expression of SOD3 in tumor cells was higher than that in normal cells. The ratio of early apoptosis induced by anti-cancer drugs was 10.5% in normal cells, 35.1% in squamous cell carcinoma and 36.9% in adenocarcinoma.The SOD3 high expression was associated with poor survival probability by multivariate analysis (HR: 1.006, 95% CI 1.002–1.011, p=0.006). Moreover, SOD3 high expression group had higher ESTIMATE scores, and larger amount of immune infiltrating cells. SOD3 expression is correlated with PDCD1 and CTLA4 expression.

Conclusions

SOD3 gene can be used as a prognostic gene in lung cancer patients, and lung cancer patients with high expression of this gene can reap worse prognostic outcome. It can be used as a new clinical method and prognosticator for lung cancer patients.
Gut Microbiome Alterations Affect Glioma Development and Foxp3 Expression in Tumor Microenvironment in Mice
Authors: Fan Yiqi , Su Qing , Chen Junxiao , Wang Yong , He Shuai
Published: March 2022

Glioma is the most common malignant tumor of the central nervous system (CNS), with high degree of malignancy and poor prognosis. The gut microbiome (GM) is composed of microorganisms with different properties and functions, which play an important role in human physiology and biological activities. It has been proved that GM can affect the development of glioma through natural immunity, but whether GM can affect glioma through adaptive immunity and whether there are some microorganisms in the GM that may affect glioma growth still remain unclear. In our study, we evaluated the relationship between GM and glioma. We proved that (I) glioma growth can induce structural changes of mouse GM, including the decreased abundance of Bacteroidia and increased abundance of Firmicutes. (II) GM dysbiosis can downregulate Foxp3 expression in the brain and promote glioma growth. A balanced environment of GM can upregulate the expression of Foxp3 in the brain and delay the development of glioma. (III) The increased abundance of Bacteroidia is associated with accelerated glioma progression, while its decreased abundance is associated with delayed glioma progression, which may be one of the key microorganisms affecting glioma growth. This study is helpful to reveal the relationship between GM and glioma development and provide new ideas for adjuvant therapy of glioma.
Status and Influencing Factors of Parenteral Nutrition Practice for Late Preterm Infants in China
Authors: Quan Meiying , Li Zhenghong , Wang Danhua , Schibler Kurt , Yang Li , Liu Jie , Qin Xuanguang , Zhang Xin , Han Tongyan , Li Ying
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To explore the status of parental nutrition practice of hospitalized late preterm infants and the factors influencing the clinical prescription.

Methods

A multi-center, prospective cohort study was conducted during October 2015 to October 2017. Infants born after 34 weeks and before 37 weeks were enrolled from twenty-five hospitals in the Beijing area of China. Data of enteral and parenteral nutrition were collected.

Results

A total of 1,463 late preterm infants were enrolled in this study, 53.9% of infants were supported by parenteral nutrition. Over 60% of 34 weeks’ infants were on parenteral nutrition during the 2nd to the 4th day. Logistic regression analysis showed that gestational age(GA) (OR = 0.69, 95%CI 0.58–0.81), birth weight (OR = 0.41, 95%CI 0.26–0.65), hypoglycemia (OR = 2.77, 95%CI 1.90–4.04), small for gestational age (SGA) (OR = 2.18, 95%CI 1.34–3.55), feeding intolerance (OR = 6.41, 95%CI 1.90–21.59), neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) (OR = 2.16, 95%CI 1.12–4.18), neonatal infection(OR = 1.56 95%CI 1.16–2.10), and slow enteral nutrition advancement rate (OR = 0.92, 95%CI 0.90–0.95) were factors influencing the administration of parenteral nutrition.

Conclusion

Over half of hospitalized late preterm infants were prescribed with parenteral nutrition. Infants with lower GA, lower birth weight, diagnosed with hypoglycemia, SGA, feeding intolerance, NRDS, neonatal infection, or a slower rate of enteral nutrition advancement had a higher likelihood of receiving parenteral nutrition.
Prediction of Synergistic Antibiotic Combinations by Graph Learning
Authors: Lv Ji , Liu Guixia , Ju Yuan , Sun Ying , Guo Weiying
Published: March 2022

Antibiotic resistance is a major public health concern. Antibiotic combinations, offering better efficacy at lower doses, are a useful way to handle this problem. However, it is difficult for us to find effective antibiotic combinations in the vast chemical space. Herein, we propose a graph learning framework to predict synergistic antibiotic combinations. In this model, a network proximity method combined with network propagation was used to quantify the relationships of drug pairs, and we found that synergistic antibiotic combinations tend to have smaller network proximity. Therefore, network proximity can be used for building an affinity matrix. Subsequently, the affinity matrix was fed into a graph regularization model to predict potential synergistic antibiotic combinations. Compared with existing methods, our model shows a better performance in the prediction of synergistic antibiotic combinations and interpretability.
Interleukins 4 and 13 in Asthma: Key Pathophysiologic Cytokines and Druggable Molecular Targets
Authors: Pelaia Corrado , Heffler Enrico , Crimi Claudia , Maglio Angelantonio , Vatrella Alessandro , Pelaia Girolamo , Canonica Giorgio Walter
Published: March 2022

Interleukins (IL)-4 and -13 play a pivotal role in the pathobiology of type-2 asthma. Indeed, IL-4 is crucially involved in Th2 cell differentiation, immunoglobulin (Ig) class switching and eosinophil trafficking. IL-13 cooperates with IL-4 in promoting IgE synthesis, and also induces nitric oxide (NO) production, goblet cell metaplasia and fibroblast proliferation, as well as elicits contractile responses and hyperplasia of airway smooth muscle cells.

IL-4 and IL-13 share common signaling pathways, activated by the binding of both cytokines to receptor complexes including the α-subunit of the IL-4 receptor (IL-4Rα). Therefore, the subsequent receptor dimerization is responsible for the pathophysiologic effects of IL-4 and IL-13. By selectively blocking IL-4Rα, the fully human IgG4 monoclonal antibody dupilumab behaves as a dual receptor antagonist of both IL-4 and IL-13. Through this mechanism of action, dupilumab exerts effective therapeutic actions in type-2 inflammation, thus decreasing asthma exacerbations, FeNO (fractional exhaled NO) levels, and the intake of oral corticosteroids (OCS). In addition to being approved for the add-on biological therapy of severe asthma, dupilumab has also been licensed for the treatment of nasal polyposis and atopic dermatitis.