bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pragmatic Machine Learning Approach to Quantify Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Whole Slide Images
Authors: Shvetsov Nikita , Grønnesby Morten , Pedersen Edvard , Møllersen Kajsa , Busund Lill-Tove Rasmussen , Schwienbacher Ruth , Bongo Lars Ailo , Kilvaer Thomas Karsten
Published: June 2022

Increased levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) indicate favorable outcomes in many types of cancer. The manual quantification of immune cells is inaccurate and time-consuming for pathologists. Our aim is to leverage a computational solution to automatically quantify TILs in standard diagnostic hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections (H&E slides) from lung cancer patients. Our approach is to transfer an open-source machine learning method for the segmentation and classification of nuclei in H&E slides trained on public data to TIL quantification without manual labeling of the data. Our results show that the resulting TIL quantification correlates to the patient prognosis and compares favorably to the current state-of-the-art method for immune cell detection in non-small cell lung cancer (current standard CD8 cells in DAB-stained TMAs HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.17–0.68 vs. TILs in HE WSIs: HoVer-Net PanNuke Aug Model HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.15–0.60 and HoVer-Net MoNuSAC Aug model HR 0.27, 95% CI 0.14–0.53). Our approach bridges the gap between machine learning research, translational clinical research and clinical implementation. However, further validation is warranted before implementation in a clinical setting.
Comparison of Two Endoscopic Therapeutic Interventions as Primary Treatment for Anastomotic Leakages after Total Gastrectomy
Authors: Senne Moritz , Werner Christoph R. , Schempf Ulrike , Thiel Karolin , Königsrainer Alfred , Wichmann Dörte
Published: June 2022

Introduction: An esophagojejunal anastomotic leak following an oncological gastrectomy is a life-threatening complication, and its management is challenging. A stent application and endoscopic negative pressure therapy are possible therapeutic options. A clinical comparison of these strategies has been missing until now. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 14 consecutive patients endoscopically treated for an anastomotic leak after a gastrectomy between June 2014 and December 2019 was performed. Results: The mean time of the diagnosis of the leakage was 7.14 days after surgery. Five patients were selected for a covered stent, and nine patients received endoscopic negative pressure therapy. In the stent group, the mean number of endoscopies was 2.4, the mean duration of therapy was 26 days, and the mean time of hospitalization was 30 days. In patients treated with endoscopic negative pressure therapy, the mean number of endoscopies was 6.0, the mean days of therapy duration was 14.78, and the mean days of hospitalization was 38.11. Treatment was successful in all patients in the stent-based therapy group and in eight of nine patients in the negative pressure therapy group. Discussion: Good clinical results in preserving the anastomosis and providing sepsis control was achieved in all patients. Stent therapy resulted in anastomosis healing with a lower number of endoscopies, a shorter time of hospitalization, and rapid oral nutrition.
α-Ketoglutarate-Mediated DNA Demethylation Sustains T-Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia upon TCA Cycle Targeting
Authors: Wang Yanwu , Shen Ning , Spurlin Gervase , Korm Sovannarith , Huang Sarah , Anderson Nicole M. , Huiting Leah N. , Liu Hudan , Feng Hui
Published: June 2022

Despite the development of metabolism-based therapy for a variety of malignancies, resistance to single-agent treatment is common due to the metabolic plasticity of cancer cells. Improved understanding of how malignant cells rewire metabolic pathways can guide the rational selection of combination therapy to circumvent drug resistance. Here, we show that human T-ALL cells shift their metabolism from oxidative decarboxylation to reductive carboxylation when the TCA cycle is disrupted. The α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex (KGDHC) in the TCA cycle regulates oxidative decarboxylation by converting α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) to succinyl-CoA, while isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) 1 and 2 govern reductive carboxylation. Metabolomics flux analysis of T-ALL reveals enhanced reductive carboxylation upon genetic depletion of the E2 subunit of KGDHC, dihydrolipoamide-succinyl transferase (DLST), mimicking pharmacological inhibition of the complex. Mechanistically, KGDHC dysfunction causes increased demethylation of nuclear DNA by α-KG-dependent dioxygenases (e.g., TET demethylases), leading to increased production of both IDH1 and 2. Consequently, dual pharmacologic inhibition of the TCA cycle and TET demethylases demonstrates additive efficacy in reducing the tumor burden in zebrafish xenografts. These findings provide mechanistic insights into how T-ALL develops resistance to drugs targeting the TCA cycle and therapeutic strategies to overcome this resistance.
Bone Marrow Fibrosis at Diagnosis and during the Course of Disease Is Associated with TP53 Mutations and Adverse Prognosis in Primary Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Zhao Youshan , Guo Juan , Zhao Sida , Wang Roujia , Shi Lei , Fang Ying , Zhang Zheng , Song Luxi , Wu Dong , Chang Chunkang
Published: June 2022

The prognostic significance of bone marrow fibrosis (MF) grade in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is still debated and the molecular changes remain unclear. In our large cohort, a normal reticulum was found in 211 (25.9%) patients, whereas MF1, MF2 and MF3 were detected in 478 (58.7%), 90 (11.1%) and 35 (4.3%) patients at initial diagnosis, respectively. Patients with MF often correlated with some poor prognostic characteristics, including older age, anemia, unfavorable karyotype, higher BM blast and a higher IPSS-R category. For the entire cohort, the median OS was not reached, 30, 16 and 15 months for patients with MF 0, 1, 2 and 3, respectively. After adjusting for IPSS-R, the hazard ratio for mortality was 1.56 (95% CI, 1.18–2.06) for patients with MF1, 2.29 (95% CI, 1.61–3.27) for patients with MF2 and 2.75 (95% CI, 1.69–4.49) for patients with MF3 compared with those with MF0. The mutational landscape of 370 patients showed that TP53, U2AF1 and KMT2D mutations were more frequent in patients with MF2-3. In addition, of the 408 patients with MF0-1, 62 patients (15.1%) progressed to MF2-3 during the follow-up interval. The clinical features, mutation landscape and prognosis of patients with progressed fibrosis were similar to those of patients with MF2-3 at diagnosis. We concluded that BM fibrosis (MF1, 2 and 3) was an adverse prognosis feature in primary MDS and correlated with TP53 mutations both at the time of initial diagnosis and during the course of the disease. Therefore, BM fibrosis should be included in the revised prognostic scoring system and carefully considered in treatment selection.
Close Surgical Margins in Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer: Do They Impact Prognosis?
Authors: Lee Dong-Hyun , Kim Geun-Jeon , Kim Hyun-Bum , Shin Hyun-Il , Kim Choung-Soo , Nam Inn-Chul , Cho Jung-Hae , Joo Young-Hoon , Cho Kwang-Jae , Sun Dong-Il , Park Young-Hak , Park Jun-Ook
Published: June 2022

Introduction. Mucosal margins exhibit a mean shrinkage of 30–40% after resection of oral and oropharyngeal cancers, and an adequate in situ surgical margin frequently results in a pathological close margin. However, the impact on prognosis remains unclear. We investigated the impact of a pathological close margin on disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the clinicopathological data of 418 patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity or oropharynx who underwent initial surgery (with curative intent) at our institute between 2010 and 2016. Results. Of the total population, the pathological marginal status of 290 (69.4%) patients was reported as clear (>5 mm), 61 (14.6%) as close (>1 mm, ≤5 mm), and 67 (16.0%) as positive (≤1 mm). The 5-year DFSs were 79.3%, 65.1%, and 52% in patients in the negative margin (group 1), close margin (group 2), and positive margin (group 3) groups, respectively. The difference between groups 1 and 2 was not significant (p = 0.213) but the difference between groups 2 and 3 was (p = 0.034). The 5-year OSs were 79.4%, 84%, and 52.3% in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The difference between groups 1 and 2 was not significant (p = 0.824) but the difference between groups 2 and 3 was (p = 0.001). In multivariate analysis, older age, advanced T stage, and a positive margin were independently prognostic of the 5-year DFS and OS. Conclusion. In conclusion, the OS of patients with close margins was no different than that of others when appropriate postoperative adjuvant and/or salvage treatment were/was prescribed. However, we could not determine the impact of close margins on locoregional recurrence given various biases in our study setting. A future prospective study is needed.
Near-Infrared Photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) in Urologic Cancers
Authors: Fukushima Hiroshi , Turkbey Baris , Pinto Peter A. , Furusawa Aki , Choyke Peter L. , Kobayashi Hisataka
Published: June 2022

Near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) is a novel molecularly-targeted therapy that selectively kills cancer cells by systemically injecting an antibody-photoabsorber conjugate (APC) that binds to cancer cells, followed by the application of NIR light that drives photochemical transformations of the APC. APCs are synthesized by selecting a monoclonal antibody that binds to a receptor on a cancer cell and conjugating it to IRDye700DX silica-phthalocyanine dye. Approximately 24 h after APC administration, NIR light is delivered to the tumor, resulting in nearly-immediate necrotic cell death of cancer cells while causing no harm to normal tissues. In addition, NIR-PIT induces a strong immunologic effect, activating anti-cancer immunity that can be further boosted when combined with either immune checkpoint inhibitors or immune suppressive cell-targeted (e.g., regulatory T cells) NIR-PIT. Currently, a global phase III study of NIR-PIT in recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is ongoing. The first APC and NIR laser systems were approved for clinical use in September 2020 in Japan. In the near future, the clinical applications of NIR-PIT will expand to other cancers, including urologic cancers. In this review, we provide an overview of NIR-PIT and its possible applications in urologic cancers.
Methodology for Simultaneous Analysis of Photocatalytic deNOx Products
Authors: Suchanek Jan , Vaneckova Eva , Dostal Michal , Mikyskova Eliska , Brabec Libor , Zouzelka Radek , Rathousky Jiri
Published: June 2022

The ISO standard 22197-1:2016 used for the evaluation of the photocatalytic nitric oxide removal has a main drawback, which allows only the decrease of nitric oxide to be determined specifically. The remaining amount, expressed as “NO2”, is considered as a sum of HNO3, HONO NO2, and other nitrogen-containing species, which can be potentially formed during the photocatalytic reaction. Therefore, we developed a new methodology combining our custom-made analyzers, which can accurately determine the true NO2 and HONO species, with the conventional NO one. Their function was validated via a photocatalytic experiment in which 100 ppbv of either NO or NO2 dispersed in air passed over (3 L min−1) an Aeroxide© TiO2 P25 surface. The gas-phase analysis was complemented with the spectrophotometric determination of nitrates (NO3−) and/or nitrites (NO2−) deposited on the P25 layer. Importantly, an almost perfect mass balance (94%) of the photocatalytic NOx abatement was achieved. The use of custom-made analyzers enables to obtain (i) no interference, (ii) high sensitivity, (iii) good linearity in the relevant concentration range, (iv) rapid response, and (v) long-term stability. Therefore, our approach enables to reveal the reaction complexity and is highly recommended for the photocatalytic NOx testing.
Decolorization and Degradation of Methyl Orange Azo Dye in Aqueous Solution by the Electro Fenton Process: Application of Optimization
Authors: Adachi Abderrazzak , Ouadrhiri Faiçal El , Kara Mohammed , El Manssouri Ibtissam , Assouguem Amine , Almutairi Mikhlid H. , Bayram Roula , Mohamed Hanan R. H. , Peluso Ilaria , Eloutassi Noureddine , Lahkimi Amal
Published: June 2022

In a batch reactor, the EF advanced oxidation decolorization of aqueous solutions of methyl orange MO, a commercial azo reactive textile dye, was investigated in the presence of two different electrodes. The evaluation included various operational variables such as the IC current intensity (60 mA, 80 mA, and 100 mA), initial concentration of pollutant MO (20 mg/L, 40 mg/L, and 60 mg/L), initial pH of solution (3, 5, and 7), temperature of solution (20 °C, 30 °C, and 50 °C), and initial concentration of catalyst [Fe2+] (0.1 mM, 0.2 mM, and 0.3 mM) on the discoloration rate. A Box-Behnken Design of Experiment (BBD) was used to optimize the parameters that directly affect the Electro-Fenton (EF) process. Under the optimal experimental conditions such as [Fe2+] = 0.232 mM, pH = 3, IC = 80 mA, [MO] = 60 mg/L, and T = 30 ± 0.1 °C, the maximum discoloration rate achieved was 94.9%. The discoloration of the aqueous MO solution during the treatment time was confirmed by analysis of the UV-visible spectrum. After a review of the literature on organic pollutant degradation, the EF system provided here is shown to be one of the best in terms of discoloration rate when compared to other AOPs.
Iron-Modified Titanate Nanorods for Oxidation of Aqueous Ammonia Using Combined Treatment with Ozone and Solar Light Irradiation
Authors: Preda Silviu , Umek Polona , Zaharescu Maria , Anastasescu Crina , Petrescu Simona Viorica , Gîfu Cătălina , Eftemie Diana-Ioana , State Razvan , Papa Florica , Balint Ioan
Published: June 2022

Sodium titanate nanorods were synthesized by a hydrothermal method and subsequently modified with an iron precursor. For comparison, Fe2O3 nanocubes were also obtained through a similar hydrothermal treatment. Pristine, Fe-modified nanorods and Fe2O3 nanocubes were suspended in diluted ammonia solutions (20 ppm) and exposed to ozone and simulated light irradiation. Ammonia abatement, together with the resulting nitrogen-containing products (NO3−), was monitored by ion chromatography measurements. The generation of reactive oxygen species (·OH and O2−) in the investigated materials and their photoelectrochemical behaviour were also investigated. Morphological and structural characterizations (SEM, XRD, XRF, UV–Vis, H2-TPR, NH3-TPD, PL, PZC) of the studied catalysts were correlated with their activity for ammonia degradation with ozone- and photo-assisted oxidation. An increase in ammonia conversion and a decreasing amount of NO3− were achieved by combining the above-mentioned processes.
The Functional Interaction of EGFR with AT1R or TP in Primary Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Triggers a Synergistic Regulation of Gene Expression
Authors: Dubourg Virginie , Schreier Barbara , Schwerdt Gerald , Rabe Sindy , Benndorf Ralf A. , Gekle Michael
Published: June 2022

In vivo, cells are simultaneously exposed to multiple stimuli whose effects are difficult to distinguish. Therefore, they are often investigated in experimental cell culture conditions where stimuli are applied separately. However, it cannot be presumed that their individual effects simply add up. As a proof-of-principle to address the relevance of transcriptional signaling synergy, we investigated the interplay of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) with the Angiotensin-II (AT1R) or the Thromboxane-A2 (TP) receptors in murine primary aortic vascular smooth muscle cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed that EGFR-AT1R or EGFR-TP simultaneous activations led to different patterns of regulated genes compared to individual receptor activations (qualitative synergy). Combined EGFR-TP activation also caused a variation of amplitude regulation for a defined set of genes (quantitative synergy), including vascular injury-relevant ones (Klf15 and Spp1). Moreover, Gene Ontology enrichment suggested that EGFR and TP-induced gene expression changes altered processes critical for vascular integrity, such as cell cycle and senescence. These bioinformatics predictions regarding the functional relevance of signaling synergy were experimentally confirmed. Therefore, by showing that the activation of more than one receptor can trigger a synergistic regulation of gene expression, our results epitomize the necessity to perform comprehensive network investigations, as the study of individual receptors may not be sufficient to understand their physiological or pathological impact.
Comment on Herring et al. The Use of “Retardation” in FRAXA, FMRP, FMR1 and Other Designations. Cells 2022, 11, 1044
Authors: Bruford Elspeth ,   on behalf of the HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC)
Published: June 2022

This commentary is written in response to the recent article from Herring et al., discussing the eradication of the offensive term “retardation” from gene nomenclature. We discuss the work of the HUGO (Human Genome Organisation) Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) and outline the steps already taken to remove this term from our gene names. We also highlight the latest nomenclature changes made as a result of discussions with the authors and agreement with the European Fragile X Network.
The Shape of Human Red Blood Cells Suspended in Autologous Plasma and Serum
Authors: Fischer Thomas M.
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: In almost all studies of the shape of the human red blood cell (RBC), the suspending medium was a salt solution supplemented with albumin. However, the ratio of thickness across the dimple region to the thickness of the rim (THR) depends on the albumin concentration. Values of the THR in the literature range from 0.27 to 0.627 whereas in the present work it was 0.550 or 0.601 whether measured in plasma or serum. (2) Methods: 9911 RBCs of eight donors were suspended in autologous plasma or serum. Sedimented RBCs were observed under bright field illumination at 416 nm. From the profiles of gray value, the THR was determined. (3) Results: The THR displays a wide distribution within a single blood sample. A direct correlation of THR and spontaneous curvature of the membrane is likely. The variation of the mean THR between different donors is large. The aspect ratio of RBCs viewed face-on ranged on average from 1 to 1.48. In oval RBCs, the rim is thicker along the major axis than along the minor axis, an effect increasing with increasing aspect ratio. Remodeling of the membrane skeleton occurs in vivo with a characteristic time (τ) on the order of 1 h. (4) Conclusions: Consideration of these data in models of RBC behavior might improve the agreement with observations. τ≈1 h suggests a more general type of reference configuration of the membrane skeleton than a stress free shape.
Quantitative Succinyl-Proteome Profiling of Turnip (Brassica rapa var. rapa) in Response to Cadmium Stress
Authors: Li Xiong , Yang Danni , Yang Yunqiang , Jin Guihua , Yin Xin , Zheng Yan , Xu Jianchu , Yang Yongping
Published: June 2022

Protein post-translational modification (PTM) is an efficient biological mechanism to regulate protein structure and function, but its role in plant responses to heavy metal stress is poorly understood. The present study performed quantitative succinyl-proteome profiling using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis to explore the potential roles of lysine succinylation modification in turnip seedlings in response to cadmium (Cd) stress (20 μM) under hydroponic conditions over a short time period (0–8 h). A total of 547 succinylated sites on 256 proteins were identified in the shoots of turnip seedlings. These succinylated proteins participated in various biological processes (e.g., photosynthesis, tricarboxylic acid cycle, amino acid metabolism, and response to stimulation) that occurred in diverse cellular compartments according to the functional classification, subcellular localization, and protein interaction network analysis. Quantitative analysis showed that the intensities of nine succinylation sites on eight proteins were significantly altered (p < 0.05) in turnip shoots after 8 h of Cd stress. These differentially succinylated sites were highly conserved in Brassicaceae species and mostly located in the conserved domains of the proteins. Among them, a downregulated succinylation site (K150) in the glycolate oxidase protein (Gene0282600.1), an upregulated succinylation site (K396) in the catalase 3 protein (Gene0163880.1), and a downregulated succinylation site (K197) in the glutathione S-transferase protein (Gene0315380.1) may have contributed to the altered activity of the corresponding enzymes, which suggests that lysine succinylation affects the Cd detoxification process in turnip by regulating the H2O2 accumulation and glutathione metabolism. These results provide novel insights into understanding Cd response mechanisms in plants and important protein modification information for the molecular-assisted breeding of Brassica varieties with distinct Cd tolerance and accumulation capacities.
Parent-Reported Perceived Cognitive Functioning Identifies Cognitive Problems in Children Who Survived Neonatal Critical Illness
Authors: Ilik Yerel , IJsselstijn Hanneke , Gischler Saskia J. , van Gils-Frijters Annabel , Schnater Johannes M. , Rietman Andre B.
Published: June 2022

Children with congenital anatomical foregut anomalies and children treated with neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are at risk for neurocognitive morbidities. We evaluated the association between the parent-reported pediatric perceived cognitive functioning (PedsPCF) questionnaire and the parent-reported behavior rating inventory of executive function (BRIEF) as well as neuropsychological assessments (NPA). We included 8-, 12- and 17-year-old participants who had joined a prospective follow-up program between 2017 and 2019. Self- and parental proxy-reported PedsPCF and proxy-reported BRIEF scores and their mutual association were evaluated. In total, 168 participants were included. Self- and proxy-reported PedsPCF scores were significantly below normal (mean (SD) z-score: −0.35 (0.88), p < 0.001; −0.36 (1.06), p < 0.001, respectively). Total BRIEF scores were significantly above normal (mean (SD) z-score 0.33 (0.98), p < 0.001). Proxy-reported PedsPCF scores and the Metacognition Index subscores of the BRIEF correlated strongly (τ = 0.551, p < 0.001). Self-reported PedsPCF scores were not associated with NPA test scores. Proxy-reported PedsPCF scores were positively associated with multiple NPA test scores, especially intelligence (R2 = 0.141). The proxy-reported PedsPCF revealed cognitive problems more often than the BRIEF in school-aged children who had survived neonatal critical illness. The proxy-reported PedsPCF may support clinical decision-making regarding the need for extensive neuropsychological assessments.
Posterior Fossa Tumor Rehabilitation: An Up-to-Date Overview
Authors: Chieffo Daniela Pia Rosaria , Lino Federica , Arcangeli Valentina , Moriconi Federica , Frassanito Paolo , Massimi Luca , Tamburrini Gianpiero
Published: June 2022

This narrative review highlights the latest achievements in the field of post-surgical rehabilitation of posterior fossa tumors. Studies investigating the effects of cognitive rehabilitation programs have been considered, following a comprehensive literature search in the scientific electronic databases: Pubmed, Scopus, Plos One, and ScienceDirect. This review investigates the effects of cognitive remediation, with specific highlights for single cognitive domains. The results revealed that in spite of the increasing number of children who survive into adulthood, very few studies investigated the effects of rehabilitation programs in this specific population. This study details new, promising therapeutic opportunities for children after brain surgery. More research in this filed is needed to identify the most effective protocols for clinical use.
Rapid Weight Loss and Severe Failure to Thrive Mimicking Lipodystrophy Syndrome in a 1-Year-Old Taiwanese Girl with Costello Syndrome
Authors: Syu Yu-Min , Lee Hung-Chang , Chang Jui-Hsing , Lee Chung-Lin , Chuang Chih-Kuang , Chiu Huei-Ching , Chang Ya-Hui , Lin Hsiang-Yu , Lin Shuan-Pei
Published: June 2022

Costello syndrome (CS) is a type of RASopathy caused mainly by de-novo heterozygous pathogenic variants in the HRAS gene located on chromosome 11p15.5. The phenotype of CS is characterized by prenatal overgrowth, postnatal failure to thrive, curly or sparse fine hair, coarse facial features, and multisystem involvement, including cardiovascular, endocrine, and gastroenterological disorders. We present a one-year-old girl with rapid weight loss and severe failure to thrive. She had gastroesophageal reflux at the age of four months with subsequent rapid weight loss. The loss of fat tissue over the whole body, refractory to a hypercaloric diet, mimicked the presentation of progressive lipodystrophy and masked the dysmorphic features of CS. The final diagnosis of CS was made by whole exome sequencing, which demonstrated a hot-spot, heterozygouspathogenic variant in the HRAS gene (c.34G > A, rs104894229). Our patient illustrates that the excessive energy needs in CS patients may lead to severe failure to thrive and cause challenges in diagnosing CS. This case also highlights the importance of recognizing CS in patients with a history of prenatal overgrowth, polyhydramnios presenting with severe failure to thrive refractory to pharmacotherapy and tube feeding.
Mediterranean Diet in Developmental Age: A Narrative Review of Current Evidences and Research Gaps
Authors: Farella Ilaria , Miselli Francesca , Campanozzi Angelo , Grosso Francesca Maria , Laforgia Nicola , Baldassarre Maria Elisabetta
Published: June 2022

Numerous studies in recent decades have shown that Mediterranean diet (MD) can reduce the risk of developing obesity in pediatric patients. The current narrative review summarizes recent evidence regarding the impact of MD across the different stages of child development, starting from fetal development, analyzing breastfeeding and weaning, through childhood up to adolescence, highlighting the gaps in knowledge for each age group. A literature search covering evidence published between 1 January 2000 and 1 March 2022 and concerning children only was conducted using multiple keywords and standardized terminology in PubMed database. A lack of scientific evidence about MD adherence concerns the age group undergoing weaning, thus between 6 months and one year of life. In the other age groups, adherence to MD and its beneficial effects in terms of obesity prevention has been extensively investigated, however, there are still few studies that correlate this dietary style with the incidence of non-communicable diseases. Furthermore, research on multi-intervention strategy should be implemented, especially regarding the role of education of children and families in taking up this healthy dietary style.
The Effects of Verbal Encouragement during a Soccer Dribbling Circuit on Physical and Psychophysiological Responses: An Exploratory Study in a Physical Education Setting
Authors: Aydi Bilel , Selmi Okba , Souissi Mohamed A. , Sahli Hajer , Rekik Ghazi , Crowley-McHattan Zachary J. , Pagaduan Jeffrey Cayaban , Muscella Antonella , Zghibi Makram , Chen Yung-Sheng
Published: June 2022

Verbal encouragement (VE) can be used by physical education (PE) practitioners for boosting motivation during exercise engagement. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of VE on psychophysiological aspects and physical performance in a PE context. Twenty secondary school male students (age: 17.68 ± 0.51 yrs; height: 175.7 ± 6.2 cm; body mass: 67.3 ± 5.1 kg, %fat: 11.9 ± 3.1%; PE experience: 10.9 ± 1.0 yrs) completed, in a randomized order, two test sessions that comprised a soccer dribbling circuit exercise (the Hoff circuit) either with VE (CVE) or without VE (CNVE), with one-week apart between the tests. Heart rate (HR) responses were recorded throughout the circuit exercise sessions. Additionally, the profile of mood-state (POMS) was assessed pre and post the circuit exercises. Furthermore, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), traveled distance, and physical activity enjoyment (PACES) were assessed after the testing sessions. Furthermore, the CVE trial resulted in higher covered distance, %HRmax, RPE, PACES score, (Cohen’s coefficient d = 1.08, d = 1.86, d = 1.37, respectively; all, p < 0.01). The CNVE trial also showed lower vigor and higher total mood disturbance (TMD) (d = 0.67, d = 0.87, respectively, p < 0.05) and was associated with higher tension and fatigue, compared to the CVE trial (d = 0.77, d = 1.23, respectively, p < 0.01). The findings suggest that PE teachers may use verbal cues during soccer dribbling circuits for improving physical and psychophysiological responses within secondary school students.
The Influence of Parenting Styles on Eating Behavior and Caries in Their Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: González-Olmo María José , Ruiz-Guillén Ana , Moya-López María , Romero-Maroto Martín , Carrillo-Díaz María
Published: June 2022

The type of parenting style influences the way children cope with problems and can create states of anxiety that can even alter their eating habits, which can cause problems in their oral health. The present study aimed to find out which parenting style is more favorable for the oral health of their children. In this cross-sectional study, 186 children (aged 8–15 years) were examined to assess the mean Decayed/Missing/Filled teeth (DMFT + dmft) index, and they were asked to complete the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Parenting Style Scale, and questions about their oral hygiene habits. On the other hand, their parents answered the Parental Feeding Style Questionnaire and the Children’s Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Results showed that a worse oral health status was associated with a higher state of anxiety, more overeating, more emotional eating, and higher psychological control. A higher rate of missing teeth was associated with increased undereating and overeating. Emotional eating was positively related to psychological control. State of anxiety, overeating, and parental psychological control predicted 24.6% of DMFT + dmft. In addition, emotional eating had a moderating effect in DMFT + dfmt only in those with low levels of affection and communication. In conclusion, high psychological control and low levels of parental affection and communication will increase the state of anxiety in children, influencing their caries rate.
Study on Adhesion Reliability and Particle Inhibition of Epoxy Resin Coating in DC GIL after Thermal Ageing Experiment
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Zhe , Liu Renying , Xiao Ruofan , Li Qingmin
Published: June 2022

The movement of metal particles is effectively inhibited when a DC GIL’s (gas-insulated transmission line) electrode is coated. This article aims to study the problem of coating falling off during GIL operation and the change in the particle-inhibitory effect after coating ageing. A closed constant temperature heating platform and a particle motion observation platform in an SF6 atmosphere were built. The epoxy resin coating was aged for 1200 h in an SF6 atmosphere at 160 °C. Pull-off and particle-lifting experiments were carried out for the samples. The experimental results show that the adhesion of the coating changes from rapid decline to slow decline, decreasing by 35.5%. The lifting voltage of particle startup gradually decreased, and the inhibition effect on particle activity decreased from 45.89% to 35.7%. The coating mass loss rate and surface morphology were tested to explain adhesion decline. Then, the dielectric constant, electrical conductivity and adhesion work between the coating and the particles, which are the key factors affecting the lifting of the particles, were measured. Compared with the adhesion work, the dielectric constant of the coating has a greater impact on the starting voltage. The dielectric constant of the coating decreases by 24.07%, and the conductivity increases, which weakens its inhibition of particles. After ageing, due to the decrease in the dielectric constant and the increase in the conductivity of the coating, the inhibition of coating on particles is weakened. This paper reveals the changes in coating adhesion reliability and particle inhibition in DC GIL, providing guidance for using and improving the performance of coatings in practical engineering.
An Oncology Urgent Care Clinic for the Management of Immune-Related Adverse Events: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Liang Kai-li , Tackett Sean , Myers Samantha , Brahmer Julie R. , Browner Ilene S. , Ettinger David S. , Forde Patrick M. , Hales Russell K. , Hann Christine L. , Lam Vincent K. , Marrone Kristen A. , Patel Tricia , Peterson Valerie , Sagorsky Sarah , Turner Michelle , Voong Khinh R. , Naidoo Jarushka , Feliciano Josephine L.
Published: June 2022

Introduction: With the increasing use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) for cancer, there is a growing burden on the healthcare system to provide care for the toxicities associated with these agents. Herein, we aim to identify and describe the distribution of encounters seen in an urgent care setting for immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and the clinical outcomes from irAE management. Methods: Patient demographics, disease characteristics, and treatment data were collected retrospectively from encounters at an oncology Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) from a single tertiary center for upper aerodigestive malignancies from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics with odds ratios for associations between patient features and hospitalization after UCC evaluation. Results: We identified 494 encounters from 289 individual patients over the study period. A history of ICI therapy was noted in 34% (n = 170/494) of encounters and 29 encounters (29/170, 17%) were confirmed and treated as irAEs. For those treated for irAEs, the majority (n = 19/29; 66%) were discharged home. Having an irAE was associated with an increased risk of hospitalization compared to non-irAEs (OR 5.66; 95% CI 2.15–14.89; p < 0.001). Conclusion: In this single institution experience, the majority of UCC encounters for confirmed irAEs were safely managed within the UCC. In ICI-treated patients, having an irAE was associated with an increased risk of hospitalization versus non-irAEs.
Diagnostic Efficacy across Dense and Non-Dense Breasts during Digital Breast Tomosynthesis and Ultrasound Assessment for Recalled Women
Authors: Hadadi Ibrahim , Clarke Jillian , Rae William , McEntee Mark , Vincent Wendy , Ekpo Ernest
Published: June 2022

Background: To compare the diagnostic efficacy of digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and ultrasound across breast densities in women recalled for assessment. Methods: A total of 482 women recalled for assessment from January 2017 to December 2019 were selected for the study. Women met the inclusion criteria if they had undergone DBT, ultrasound and had confirmed biopsy results. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and AUC for DBT and ultrasound. Results: In dense breasts, DBT showed significantly higher sensitivity than ultrasound (98.2% vs. 80%; p < 0.001), but lower specificity (15.4% vs. 55%; p < 0.001), PPV (61.3% vs. 71%; p = 0.04) and AUC (0.568 vs. 0.671; p = 0.001). In non-dense breasts, DBT showed significantly higher sensitivity than ultrasound (99.2% vs. 84%; p < 0.001), but no differences in specificity (22% vs. 33%; p = 0.14), PPV (69.2% vs. 68.8%; p = 0.93) or AUC (0.606 vs. 0.583; p = 0.57). Around 73% (74% dense and 71% non-dense) and 77% (81% dense and 72% non-dense) of lesions assigned a RANZCR 3 by DBT and ultrasound, respectively, were benign. Conclusion: DBT has higher sensitivity, but lower specificity and PPV than ultrasound in women with dense breasts recalled for assessment. Most lesions rated RANZCR 3 on DBT and ultrasound are benign and may benefit from short interval follow-up rather than biopsy.
First Results of an External Quality Assessment (EQA) Scheme for Molecular, Serological and Antigenic Diagnostic Test for SARS-CoV-2 Detection in Lombardy Region (Northern Italy), 2020–2022
Authors: Pasotti Fabio , Pellegrinelli Laura , Liga Giuseppa , Rizzetto Manuela , Azzarà Giovanna , Da Molin Simona , Lungu Oana Livia , Greco Silvia , Galli Cristina , Bubba Laura , Pariani Elena , Corradin Matteo , Cereda Danilo , Buoro Sabrina
Published: June 2022

For diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infection and for monitoring its spread, the implementation of external quality assessment (EQA) schemes is mandatory to assess and ensure a standard quality according to national and international guidelines. Here, we present the results of the 2020, 2021, 2022 EQA schemes in Lombardy region for assessing the quality of the diagnostic laboratories involved in SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis. In the framework of the Quality Assurance Programs (QAPs), the routinely EQA schemes are managed by the regional reference centre for diagnostic laboratories quality (RRC-EQA) of the Lombardy region and are carried out by all the diagnostic laboratories. Three EQA programs were organized: (1) EQA of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection; (2) EQA of anti-SARS-CoV-2-antibody testing; (3) EQA of SARS-CoV-2 direct antigens detection. The percentage of concordance of 1938 molecular tests carried out within the SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection EQA was 97.7%. The overall concordance of 1875 tests carried out within the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody EQA was 93.9% (79.6% for IgM). The overall concordance of 1495 tests carried out within the SARS-CoV-2 direct antigens detection EQA was 85% and it was negatively impacted by the results obtained by the analysis of weak positive samples. In conclusion, the EQA schemes for assessing the accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis in the Lombardy region highlighted a suitable reproducibility and reliability of diagnostic assays, despite the heterogeneous landscape of SARS-CoV-2 tests and methods. Laboratory testing based on the detection of viral RNA in respiratory samples can be considered the gold standard for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis.
A New Artificial Intelligence-Based Method for Identifying Mycobacterium Tuberculosis in Ziehl–Neelsen Stain on Tissue
Authors: Zurac Sabina , Mogodici Cristian , Poncu Teodor , Trăscău Mihai , Popp Cristiana , Nichita Luciana , Cioplea Mirela , Ceachi Bogdan , Sticlaru Liana , Cioroianu Alexandra , Busca Mihai , Stefan Oana , Tudor Irina , Voicu Andrei , Stanescu Daliana , Mustatea Petronel , Dumitru Carmen , Bastian Alexandra
Published: June 2022

Mycobacteria identification is crucial to diagnose tuberculosis. Since the bacillus is very small, finding it in Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN)-stained slides is a long task requiring significant pathologist’s effort. We developed an automated (AI-based) method of identification of mycobacteria. We prepared a training dataset of over 260,000 positive and over 700,000,000 negative patches annotated on scans of 510 whole slide images (WSI) of ZN-stained slides (110 positive and 400 negative). Several image augmentation techniques coupled with different custom computer vision architectures were used. WSIs automatic analysis was followed by a report indicating areas more likely to present mycobacteria. Our model performs AI-based diagnosis (the final decision of the diagnosis of WSI belongs to the pathologist). The results were validated internally on a dataset of 286,000 patches and tested in pathology laboratory settings on 60 ZN slides (23 positive and 37 negative). We compared the pathologists’ results obtained by separately evaluating slides and WSIs with the results given by a pathologist aided by automatic analysis of WSIs. Our architecture showed 0.977 area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The clinical test presented 98.33% accuracy, 95.65% sensitivity, and 100% specificity for the AI-assisted method, outperforming any other AI-based proposed methods for AFB detection.
The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy for Advanced Cervical Cancer at a Romanian Academic Center: A Four-Year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Popescu Alin , Pantea Stelian , Radu Daniela , Gluhovschi Adrian , Dumitru Catalin , Dahma George , Mocanu Adelina Geanina , Neamtu Radu , Dema Sorin , Tigmeanu Codruta Victoria , Grigoras Mirela Loredana , Pescariu Silvius Alexandru , Aabed Hazzaa , Craina Marius
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, health systems worldwide adapted to support COVID-19 patients while continuing to provide assistance to patients with other potentially fatal illnesses. While patients with cancer may be at an elevated risk of severe COVID-19-related complications, their oncologic therapies generally cannot be postponed indefinitely without a negative effect on outcomes. Taking this into account, a thorough examination of the therapy management of various cancers is necessary, such as cervical cancer. Therefore, we aimed to develop a retrospective cohort study to measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the delivery of cancer care services for women diagnosed with cervical cancer staged IB2-IVA, necessitating chemo- and radiotherapy in Romania, as well as determine the difference in cervical cancer staging between the pandemic and pre-pandemic period. Materials and Methods: Using a multicentric hospital database, we designed a retrospective study to compare the last 24 months of the pre-pandemic period to the first 24 months of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic to evaluate the variation in the proportion of women diagnosed with cervical cancer and the percentage of inoperable cases requiring chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as well as to detail their clinical presentation and other findings. Results: We observed that the likelihood of cervical cancer patients requiring radiation therapy at a later stage than before the pandemic increased by about 20% during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients at an advanced FIGO stage of cervical cancer had a 3.39 higher likelihood of disease progression after radiotherapy (CI [2.06–4.21], p-value < 0.001), followed by tumor size at diagnosis with a hazard ratio (HR) of 3.12 (CI [2.24–4.00], p-value < 0.001). The factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic, postponed treatment and missed appointments, were also identified as significant risk factors for cervical cancer progression (HR = 2.51 and HR = 2.24, respectively). Conclusions We predict that there will be a considerable rise in cervical cancer cases over the next several years based on existing data and that expanding screening and treatment capacity will attenuate this with a minimal increase in morbidity and fatality.
A Survey on Deep Learning for Precision Oncology
Authors: Wang Ching-Wei , Khalil Muhammad-Adil , Firdi Nabila
Published: June 2022

Precision oncology, which ensures optimized cancer treatment tailored to the unique biology of a patient’s disease, has rapidly developed and is of great clinical importance. Deep learning has become the main method for precision oncology. This paper summarizes the recent deep-learning approaches relevant to precision oncology and reviews over 150 articles within the last six years. First, we survey the deep-learning approaches categorized by various precision oncology tasks, including the estimation of dose distribution for treatment planning, survival analysis and risk estimation after treatment, prediction of treatment response, and patient selection for treatment planning. Secondly, we provide an overview of the studies per anatomical area, including the brain, bladder, breast, bone, cervix, esophagus, gastric, head and neck, kidneys, liver, lung, pancreas, pelvis, prostate, and rectum. Finally, we highlight the challenges and discuss potential solutions for future research directions.
Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation of a Novel Triangular Implant Neck Design: A Case Series
Authors: Collins James Rudolph , Ogando Brendha P. , Hong Houlin , Hou Wei , Romanos Georgios E.
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic behavior of a novel triangular neck implant configuration in partially edentulous patients. Sixteen patients with a mean age of 58.3 years, were rehabilitated with 25 implants inserted in the healed sites of the maxilla and mandible; implant diameter was Ø3.3 and 3.9 mm. Clinical and radiographic measurements were first performed at prosthesis delivery that served as baseline; they were further evaluated after a mean period of 15.6 months. The interproximal peri-implant bone levels were the primary outcome; the mesial and distal data were recorded and a mean value was calculated. Secondary outcomes included peri-implant probing depth (PPD) and bleeding on probing (BoP). The paired t-test was used to compare the radiographic and clinical outcomes between baseline and follow-up. The mean bone levels at the mesial and distal aspects at baseline were 0.45 (0.47) and 0.57 (0.69), respectively; at follow-up they were 0.59 (0.42) and 0.78 (0.59), respectively. The differences were not statistically significant. Similarly, no significant differences were found for the clinical parameters. Within the limitations of the present study, it could be concluded that this new triangular neck bone level implant macro-design was used successfully to treat partially edentulous patients. Larger controlled clinical studies are warranted to confirm the present radiographic and clinical findings.
Quantum Models à la Gabor for the Space-Time Metric
Authors: Cohen-Tannoudji Gilles , Gazeau Jean-Pierre , Habonimana Célestin , Shabani Juma
Published: June 2022

As an extension of Gabor signal processing, the covariant Weyl-Heisenberg integral quantization is implemented to transform functions on the eight-dimensional phase space x,k into Hilbertian operators. The x=xμ values are space-time variables, and the k=kμ values are their conjugate frequency-wave vector variables. The procedure is first applied to the variables x,k and produces essentially canonically conjugate self-adjoint operators. It is next applied to the metric field gμν(x) of general relativity and yields regularized semi-classical phase space portraits gˇμν(x). The latter give rise to modified tensor energy density. Examples are given with the uniformly accelerated reference system and the Schwarzschild metric. Interesting probabilistic aspects are discussed.
Cross-Market Correlations and Financial Contagion from Developed to Emerging Economies: A Case of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Siddiqui Taufeeque Ahmad , Khan Mazia Fatima , Naushad Mohammad , Syed Abdul Malik
Published: June 2022

In the event that the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across various stock markets, this study may be deemed as one of the primary studies to evaluate cross-market interactions. The study examines the spread of contagious effects originating from developed economies (the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan) to selected emerging markets (China, India, Thailand, Taiwan, Egypt, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates). The countries studied are classified into three regions: developed economies, Asia, and Africa and the Middle East. The crisis period is identified with the deployment of the Markov regime-switching model. The conditional correlations are compared before and after the crisis episode using the time-varying multivariate DCC-GARCH model. The findings confirm that certain emerging markets are experiencing contagion from developed markets, while others remain unaffected. Overall, investors in the two regions examined (Asia, and Africa and the Middle East) have comparable diversification options. The findings are expected to bolster policymakers and international agencies in developing post-crisis measures.