bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Use of Novel Immunotherapeutics in B-Cell Precursor ALL
Authors: Lussana Federico , Cavallaro Gianluca , De Simone Pantaleo , Rambaldi Alessandro
Published: February 2023

Novel immune therapies are currently being used for patients with R/R ALL based on their ability to induce not only hematologic but also molecular remission. Despite promising results, specific clinical conditions, such as high tumor burden or extra medullary relapse, are still associated with a remarkably poor clinical outcome. Therefore, how to optimize the choice and the timing of such new treatments within different clinical settings remains a matter of debate. In addition, with the aim of increasing the rate and depth of molecular remission, clinical studies are currently evaluating the combination of these immunotherapies with chemotherapy in the contest of frontline treatment. The preliminary data suggest that this approach may increase the cure rate and perhaps reduce the use of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) in first remission. In Ph-positive ALL, reproducible results are showing that frontline treatment programs, based on the combination of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immunotherapy, can achieve unprecedented rates of hematologic and molecular remission as well as a long-term cure, even in the absence of chemotherapy and alloHSCT. The results from these studies have led to the development of potentially curative treatment modalities, even for older ALL patients who cannot be treated with conventional intensive chemotherapy. The present review examined the evidence for an appropriate use of the new immunotherapies in ALL patients and provided some appraisal of the current and future possible uses of these drugs for achieving further therapeutic improvement in the treatment of this disease.
Use of Telemedicine to Improve Cognitive Functions and Psychological Well-Being in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Giustiniani Andreina , Danesin Laura , Pezzetta Rachele , Masina Fabio , Oliva Giulia , Arcara Giorgio , Burgio Francesca , Conte Pierfranco
Published: February 2023

The diagnosis and side effects of breast cancer (BC) treatments greatly affect the everyday lives of women suffering from this disease, with relevant psychological and cognitive consequences. Several studies have reported the psychological effects of receiving a diagnosis of BC. Moreover, women undergoing anticancer therapies may exhibit cognitive impairment as a side effect of the treatments. The access to cognitive rehabilitation and psychological treatment for these patients is often limited by resources; women of childbearing age often encounter difficulties in completing rehabilitation programs requiring access to care institutions. Telemedicine, which provides health services using information and communication technologies, is a useful tool to overcome these limitations. In particular, telemedicine may represent an optimal way to guarantee cognitive rehabilitation, psychological support, and recovery to BC patients. Previous studies have reviewed the use of telemedicine to improve psychological well-being in BC patients, and a few have investigated the effect of telerehabilitation on cognitive deficits. This study systematically reviewed the evidence on the cognitive and psychological effects of telemedicine in BC patients. Current evidence suggests that telemedicine may represent a promising tool for the management of some psychological problems experienced by breast cancer patients, but more controlled studies are needed to clarify its effectiveness, especially for cognitive deficits. The results are also discussed in light of the intervening and modulating factors that may mediate both side effect occurrence and the success of the interventions.
Editorial: Autologous and Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Sharma Nidhi , Efebera Yvonne A.
Published: February 2023

Over the last 10 to 20 years, there have been significant improvements in the fields of both autologous and allogenic transplantation [...]
Current Trends in Mucosal Melanomas: An Overview
Authors: Santeufemia Davide Adriano , Palmieri Giuseppe , Miolo Gianmaria , Colombino Maria , Doro Maria Grazia , Frogheri Laura , Paliogiannis Panagiotis , Capobianco Giampiero , Madonia Massimo , Cossu Antonio , Lo Re Giovanni , Corona Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Primary mucosal melanomas (MMs) are uncommon tumors originating from melanocytes located in the mucous membranes at various anatomic sites within the body. MM significantly differs from cutaneous melanoma (CM) regarding epidemiology, genetic profile, clinical presentation, and response to therapies. Despite these differences, that have important implications for both disease diagnosis and prognosis, MMs are usually treated in the same way as CM but exhibit a lower response rate to immunotherapy leading to a poorer survival rate. Furthermore, a high inter-patient variability can be observed in relation to therapeutic response. Recently, novel “omics” techniques have evidenced that MM lesions have different genomic, molecular, and metabolic landscapes as compared with CM lesions, thus explaining the heterogeneity of the response. Such specific molecular aspects might be useful to identify new biomarkers aimed at improving the diagnosis and selection of MM patients who could benefit from immunotherapy or targeted therapy. In this review, we have focused on relevant molecular and clinical advancements for the different MM subtypes in order to describe the updated knowledge relating to main diagnostic, clinical, and therapeutic implications as well as to provide hints on likely future directions.
Effects of IL-11/IL-11 Receptor Alpha on Proliferation and Steroidogenesis in Ovarian Granulosa Cells of Dairy Cows
Authors: Wu Hanxiao , Sun Peihao , Lv Ce , Zhao Xinzhe , Liu Mingxiao , Zhou Qunli , Tang Jiaomei , Yang Liguo , Liang Aixin
Published: February 2023

Granulosa cells (GCs) are essential for follicular growth, oocyte maturation, and steroidogenesis in the ovaries. Interleukin (IL)-11 is known to play a crucial role in the decidualization of the uterus, however, the expression of the IL-11 system (IL-11, IL-11Rα, and gp130) in the bovine ovary and its exact role in GCs have not been extensively studied. In this study, we identified the IL-11 signaling receptor complex in the bovine ovary and investigated the regulatory effects and underlying mechanism of IL-11Rα on the proliferation and steroidogenesis of GCs. We observed that the IL-11 complex was highly expressed in the GCs of large follicles. IL-11Rα knockdown significantly inhibited GC proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase, along with a significant downregulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Cyclin D1 (CCND1) protein, and induced GC apoptosis by significantly upregulating the ratio of BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2). In addition, IL-11Rα knockdown attenuated the Janus kinase (JAK) 1–signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling, which is related to cell proliferation and apoptosis. Furthermore, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) indicated that IL-11Rα silencing decreased the basal and forskolin (FSK)-stimulated secretions of estradiol and progesterone in GC culture medium concomitantly with a remarkable decrease in cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (CYP19A1) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). We subsequently determined that this reduction in steroidogenesis was in parallel with the decrease in phosphorylations of protein kinase A (PKA) substrates, cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB), extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) 1/2, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Taken together, these data indicate that the effects of IL-11/IL-11Rα on the proliferation and steroidogenesis in bovine GCs is mediated by the JAK1-STAT3, PKA-CREB, p38MAPK, and ERK1/2 signaling pathways. Our findings provide important insights into the local action of the IL-11 system in regulating ovarian function.
Discovering a Dihydrofluorescein Analogue as a Promising Fluorescence Substrate to HRP
Authors: Zhu Jiayan , Li Ting , Zhang Shihui , Zou Xiaomei , Zhou Yingchun , Lu Weiguo , Liu Zhihui , Deng Tao , Liu Fang
Published: February 2023

Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) combined with its fluorescence substrates is attracting increasing attention for biochemical analysis. Amplex red is the most widely used fluorescence substrate to HRP; however, it suffers from some drawbacks, such as nonspecific responsiveness toward carboxylesterases. Discovering a new small molecular fluorescence substrate with improved sensitivity and selectivity for HRP is thus desired. Herein, three dihydrofluorescein derivatives (DCFHs) are presented to serve as HRP substrates through fluorescence turn-on methods. The most promising one, 2,7-dichloro-9-(2-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)-9H-xanthene-3,6-diol (DCFH-1), exhibited excellent sensitivity in the detection of HRP. Moreover, DCFH-1 does not respond to carboxylesterase, thus holding advantages over Amplex red. In the further study, the detection reagent in the commercial ELISA kits was replaced with DCFH-1 to establish a new fluorescence ELISA, which works very well in the quantification of inflammatory cytokine biomarkers from in vitro models.
Neuroactive Amino Acid Profile in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results from a Clinical Sample
Authors: Randazzo Martina , Prato Adriana , Messina MariaAnna , Meli Concetta , Casabona Antonino , Rizzo Renata , Barone Rita
Published: February 2023

Biological bases of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) include both genetic and epigenetic causes. Patients with ASD show anomalies in the profile of certain plasma amino acids, including neuroactive amino acids. Monitoring plasma amino acids may be relevant for patient care and interventions. We evaluated the plasma amino acid profile in samples extracted from dry blood spots by electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry. Fourteen amino acids and eleven amino acid ratios were examined in patients with ASD and intellectual disability (ID), and neurotypical control subjects (TD). The amino acid profile in the ASD group showed reduced levels of ornithine (p = 0.008), phenylalanine (p = 0.042) and tyrosine (p = 0.013). The statistically significant amino acid ratios were Leu+Val/Phe+Tyr (p = 0.002), Tyr/Leu (p = 0.007) and Val/Phe (p = 0.028), such differences remaining significant only in the comparison between ASD and TD. Finally, a positive correlation emerged between the score of the restricted and repetitive behavior on ADOS-2 and the citrulline levels in the ASD group (p = 0.0047). To conclude, patients with ASD may show a distinguishable metabolic profile useful for studying their metabolic pathways in order to develop screening tests and targeted therapies.
A Review of the Trade in Toucans (Ramphastidae): Levels of Trade in Species, Source and Sink Countries, Effects from Governance Actions and Conservation Concerns
Authors: Carpenter Angus I. , Slade Jennifer
Published: February 2023

Utilising wildlife as natural resources has a long history and wide appeal for many nations, while seeking international wildlife that is sustainably managed is the primary responsibility of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). However, data-driven trade reviews are required, utilising CITES data to increase our understanding of the trade and facilitate evidence-based conservation planning. This study presents the first trade review for Toucans utilising CITES import reported data. The total number of Toucans exported was over 22,000, which subsequently generated a retail ‘real price’ value of nearly US $72 million. The countries accounting for the majority of Toucan exports were Guyana (39%), Suriname (33%) and Nicaragua (14%), while the main importing country was The Netherlands (nearly 25%). Toucan species traded were Ramphastos vitellinus (accounting for 21.5%), Ramphastos toco (19%) and Ramphastos tucanus (17%), making the top three while trade was recorded in 10 species. However, successfully identifying economic values for 15 species highlights that trade exists within non-CITES listed Toucan species too. Therefore, the levels of trade in non-CITES-listed Toucan species need urgent attention, as do the non-detrimental findings that underpin the CITES quotas set for each species, given the species’ importance ecologically.
Synthesis of Bivalent Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) Complexes of Azodicarbonamide in Mixture of Methanol and Aqueous Solvents: Spectral Characterizations and Anti-Microbial Studies
Authors: Younes Ayman A. O. , Adam Abdel Majid A. , Refat Moamen S. , Al-Wasidi Asma S. , Almehizia Abdulrahman A. , Al-Omar Mohamed A. , Naglah Ahmed M. , Al-Obaid Abdulrahman M. , Alkahtani Hamad M. , Obaidullah Ahmad J. , El-Sayed Mohamed Y. , Asla Kareem A.
Published: February 2023

Three new transition-metal complexes were produced by refluxing azodicarbonamide (ADCA) with nickel(II), copper(II), and zinc(II) solutions in a mixture of 50% (v/v) methanol and water. The magnitude of chelation between metal ions and ligand molecules was assessed by FT-IR, UV, elemental analysis, TGA, conductivity, mass, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. FT-IR analysis suggested a bi-dentate chelation in all complexes, which takes place through the N-azo and O-carbonyl groups. Based on the measurement of magnetic moments and spectral analysis, a distorted octahedral geometry was proposed for Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes, whereas zinc complex showed a hexa-coordinated geometry. The optical band gaps of the nickel(II), copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes were found to be 1.91, 2.50, and 1.96 eV, respectively, which means that they can be employed as semiconductors and that they are in the same range as highly effective photovoltaic materials. The Urbach energy parameters were also estimated from other optical parameters. The biological activity of azodicarbonamide and its synthesized complexes has been screened against the selected gram bacteria (+ve) and fungi.
Phylogeography of Ramalina farinacea (Lichenized Fungi, Ascomycota) in the Mediterranean Basin, Europe, and Macaronesia
Authors: Moya Patricia , Garrido-Benavent Isaac , Chiva Salvador , Pérez-Ortega Sergio , Blázquez Miguel , Pazos Tamara , Hamel Tarek , Myllys Leena , Tønsberg Tor , Esseen Per-Anders , Carrasco Pedro , Barreno Eva
Published: February 2023

Ramalina farinacea is an epiphytic lichen-forming fungus with a broad geographic distribution, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. In the eighties of the last century, it was hypothesized that R. farinacea had originated in the Macaronesian–Mediterranean region, with the Canary Islands as its probable southernmost limit, and thereafter it would have increased its distribution area. In order to explore the phylogeography of this emblematic lichen, we analyzed 120 thalli of R. farinacea collected in 38 localities distributed in temperate and boreal Europe, the Western Mediterranean Basin, and several Macaronesian archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean. Data from two nuclear markers (nrITS and uid70) of the mycobiont were obtained to calculate genetic diversity indices to infer the phylogenies and haplotype networks and to investigate population structure. In addition, dating analysis was conducted to provide a valuable hypothesis of the timing of the origin and diversification of R. farinacea and its close allies. Our results highlight that phylogenetic species circumscription in the “Ramalina farinacea group” is complex and suggests that incomplete lineage sorting is at the base of conflicting phylogenetic signals. The existence of a high number of haplotypes restricted to the Macaronesian region, together with the diversification of R. farinacea in the Pleistocene, suggests that this species and its closest relatives originated during relatively recent geological times and then expanded its range to higher latitudes. However, our data cannot rule out whether the species originated from the Macaronesian archipelagos exclusively or also from the Mediterranean Basin. In conclusion, the present work provides a valuable biogeographical hypothesis for disentangling the evolution of this epiphytic lichen in space and time.
Systematics and Phylogenetic Interrelationships of the Enigmatic Late Jurassic Shark Protospinax annectans Woodward, 1918 with Comments on the Shark–Ray Sister Group Relationship
Authors: Jambura Patrick L. , Villalobos-Segura Eduardo , Türtscher Julia , Begat Arnaud , Staggl Manuel Andreas , Stumpf Sebastian , Kindlimann René , Klug Stefanie , Lacombat Frederic , Pohl Burkhard , Maisey John G. , Naylor Gavin J. P. , Kriwet Jürgen
Published: February 2023

The Late Jurassic elasmobranch Protospinax annectans is often regarded as a key species to our understanding of crown group elasmobranch interrelationships and the evolutionary history of this group. However, since its first description more than 100 years ago, its phylogenetic position within the Elasmobranchii (sharks and rays) has proven controversial, and a closer relationship between Protospinax and each of the posited superorders (Batomorphii, Squalomorphii, and Galeomorphii) has been proposed over the time. Here we revise this controversial taxon based on new holomorphic specimens from the Late Jurassic Konservat-Lagerstätte of the Solnhofen Archipelago in Bavaria (Germany) and review its skeletal morphology, systematics, and phylogenetic interrelationships. A data matrix with 224 morphological characters was compiled and analyzed under a molecular backbone constraint. Our results indicate a close relationship between Protospinax, angel sharks (Squatiniformes), and saw sharks (Pristiophoriformes). However, the revision of our morphological data matrix within a molecular framework highlights the lack of morphological characters defining certain groups, especially sharks of the order Squaliformes, hampering the phylogenetic resolution of Protospinax annectans with certainty. Furthermore, the monophyly of modern sharks retrieved by molecular studies is only weakly supported by morphological data, stressing the need for more characters to align morphological and molecular studies in the future.
Deep Learning with Northern Australian Savanna Tree Species: A Novel Dataset
Authors: Jansen Andrew J. , Nicholson Jaylen D. , Esparon Andrew , Whiteside Timothy , Welch Michael , Tunstill Matthew , Paramjyothi Harinandanan , Gadhiraju Varma , van Bodegraven Steve , Bartolo Renee E.
Published: February 2023

The classification of savanna woodland tree species from high-resolution Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) imagery is a complex and challenging task. Difficulties for both traditional remote sensing algorithms and human observers arise due to low interspecies variability (species difficult to discriminate because they are morphologically similar) and high intraspecies variability (individuals of the same species varying to the extent that they can be misclassified), and the loss of some taxonomic features commonly used for identification when observing trees from above. Deep neural networks are increasingly being used to overcome challenges in image recognition tasks. However, supervised deep learning algorithms require high-quality annotated and labelled training data that must be verified by subject matter experts. While training datasets for trees have been generated and made publicly available, they are mostly acquired in the Northern Hemisphere and lack species-level information. We present a training dataset of tropical Northern Australia savanna woodland tree species that was generated using RPAS and on-ground surveys to confirm species labels. RPAS-derived imagery was annotated, resulting in 2547 polygons representing 36 tree species. A baseline dataset was produced consisting of: (i) seven orthomosaics that were used for in-field labelling; (ii) a tiled dataset at 1024 × 1024 pixel size in Common Objects in Context (COCO) format that can be used for deep learning model training; (iii) and the annotations.
Diffuse Pulmonary Meningotheliomatosis: Clinic-Pathologic Entity or Indolent Metastasis from Meningioma (or Both)?
Authors: Melocchi Laura , Rossi Giulio , Valli Mirca , Mengoli Maria Cecilia , Mondoni Michele , Lazzari-Agli Luigi , Santandrea Giacomo , Davoli Fabio , Baldovini Chiara , Cavazza Alberto , Colby Thomas V.
Published: February 2023

Pulmonary minute meningothelial-like nodules (MMNs) are common incidental findings in surgical specimens, consisting of tiny proliferation (usually no larger than 5–6 mm) of bland-looking meningothelial cells showing a perivenular and interstitial distribution, sharing morphologic, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical profiles with meningiomas. The identification of multiple bilateral MMNs leading to an interstitial lung disease characterized by diffuse and micronodular/miliariform patterns radiologically allows the diagnosis of diffuse pulmonary meningotheliomatosis (DPM). Nevertheless, the lung is the most common site of metastatic primary intracranial meningioma, and differential diagnosis with DPM may be impossible without clinic–radiologic integration. Herein, we report four cases (three females; mean age, 57.5 years) fitting the criteria of DPM, all incidentally discovered and histologically evidenced on transbronchial biopsy (2) and surgical resection (2). All cases showed immunohistochemical expression of epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), progesterone receptor, and CD56. Notably, three of these patients had a proven or radiologically suspected intracranial meningioma; in two cases, it was discovered before, and in one case, after the diagnosis of DPM. An extensive literature review (44 patients with DPM) revealed similar cases with imaging studies excluding intracranial meningioma in only 9% (4 of 44 cases studied). The diagnosis of DPM requires close correlation with the clinic–radiologic data since a subset of cases coexist with or follow a previously diagnosed intracranial meningioma and, thus, may represent incidental and indolent metastatic deposits of meningioma.
Diagnostic Methods for Evaluation of Gastric Motility—A Mini Review
Authors: Wang Yan , Chen Jiande D. Z. , Nojkov Borko
Published: February 2023

Gastric motility abnormalities are common in patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction, such as functional dyspepsia and gastroparesis. Accurate assessment of the gastric motility in these common disorders can help understand the underlying pathophysiology and guide effective treatment. A variety of clinically applicable diagnostic methods have been developed to objectively evaluate the presence of gastric dysmotility, including tests of gastric accommodation, antroduodenal motility, gastric emptying, and gastric myoelectrical activity. The aim of this mini review is to summarize the advances in clinically available diagnostic methods for evaluation of gastric motility and describe the advantages and disadvantages of each test.
Correlation of sLOX-1 Levels and MR Characteristics of Culprit Plaques in Intracranial Arteries with Stroke Recurrence
Authors: Ren Kaixuan , Jiang Huayun , Li Tiantian , Qian Chengqun , Zhu Li , Wang Tianle
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Symptomatic intracranial artery atherosclerosis (sICAS) is an important cause of acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) and is associated with a high risk of stroke recurrence. High-resolution magnetic resonance vessel wall imaging (HR-MR-VWI) is an effective method for evaluating atherosclerotic plaque characteristics. Soluble lectin-like oxidised low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (sLOX-1) is closely associated with plaque formation and rupture. We aim to explore the correlation between sLOX-1 levels and culprit plaque characteristics, based on HR-MR-VWI, with stroke recurrence in patients with sICAS. (2) Methods: A total of 199 patients with sICAS underwent HR-MR-VWI between June 2020 and June 2021 in our hospital. The culprit vessel and plaque characteristics were assessed according to HR-MR-VWI, and sLOX-1 levels were measured by ELISA (enzyme linked immunosorbent assay). Outpatient follow-up was performed 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after discharge. (3) Results: sLOX-1 levels were significantly higher in the recurrence group than in the non-recurrence group (p < 0.001). The culprit plaque thickness, degree of stenosis and plaque burden were higher in the recurrence group than in the non-recurrence group (p = 0.003, p = 0.014 and p = 0.010, respectively). The incidence of hyperintensity on T1WI, positive remodelling and significant enhancement (p < 0.001, p = 0.003 and p = 0.027, respectively) was higher in the recurrence group than in the non-recurrence group. Kaplan–Meier curves showed that patients with sLOX-1 levels > 912.19 pg/mL and hyperintensity on T1WI in the culprit plaque had a higher risk of stroke recurrence (both p < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that sLOX-1 > 912.19 pg/mL (HR = 2.583, 95%CI 1.142, 5.846, p = 0.023) and hyperintensity on T1WI in the culprit plaque (HR = 2.632, 95% CI 1.197, 5.790, p = 0.016) were independent risk factors for stroke recurrence. sLOX-1 levels were significantly associated with the culprit plaque thickness (r = 0.162, p = 0.022), degree of stenosis (r = 0.217, p = 0.002), plaque burden (r = 0.183, p = 0.010), hyperintensity on T1WI (F = 14.501, p < 0.001), positive remodelling (F = 9.602, p < 0.001), and significant enhancement (F = 7.684, p < 0.001) (4) Conclusions: sLOX-1 levels were associated with vulnerability of the culprit plaque and can be used as a supplement to HR-MR-VWI to predict stroke recurrence.
Role of Preoperative Ultrasound Shear-Wave Elastography and Radiofrequency-Based Arterial Wall Tracking in Assessing the Vulnerability of Carotid Plaques: Preliminary Results
Authors: Mazzaccaro Daniela , Giannetta Matteo , Fancoli Fabiana , Matrone Giulia , Curcio Nicoletta , Conti Michele , Righini Paolo , Nano Giovanni
Published: February 2023

We aimed at evaluating the ability of point shear-wave elastography (pSWE) and of a radiofrequency (RF) echo-tracking-based method in preoperatively assessing the vulnerability of the carotid plaque in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for significant asymptomatic stenosis. All patients who underwent CEA from 03/2021 to 03/2022 performed a preoperative pSWE and an RF echo-based wall evaluation of arterial stiffness using an Esaote MyLab ultrasound system (EsaoteTM, Genova, Italy) with dedicated software. The data derived from these evaluations (Young’s modulus (YM), augmentation index (AIx), pulse-wave velocity (PWV)) were correlated with the outcome of the analysis of the plaque removed during the surgery. Data were analyzed on 63 patients (33 vulnerable and 30 stable plaques). In stable plaques, YM was significantly higher than in vulnerable plaques (49.6 + 8.1 kPa vs. 24.6 + 4.3 kPa, p = 0.009). AIx also tended to be slightly higher in stable plaques, even if it was not statistically significant (10.4 + 0.9% vs. 7.7 + 0.9%, p = 0.16). The PWV was similar (12.2 + 0.9 m/s for stable plaques vs. 10.6 + 0.5 m/s for vulnerable plaques, p = 0.16). For YM, values >34 kPa had a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 73.3% in predicting plaque nonvulnerability (area under the curve = 0.66). Preoperative measurement of YM by means of pSWE could be a noninvasive and easily applicable tool for assessing the preoperative risk of plaque vulnerability in asymptomatic patients who are candidates for CEA.
Diagnostic Performance of Two-Dimensional Ultrasound, Two-Dimensional Sonohysterography and Three-Dimensional Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Septate Uterus—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alcázar Juan Luis , Carriles Isabel , Cajas María Belén , Costa Susana , Fabra Sofia , Cabrero Maria , Castro Elena , Tomaizeh Aida , Laza María Victoria , Monroy Alba , Martinez Irene , Aguilar Maria Isabel , Hernani Elena , Castellet Cristina , Oliva Agustin , Pascual María Ángela , Guerriero Stefano
Published: February 2023

Background: The septate uterus is the most common congenital uterine anomaly, and hysteroscopy is the gold standard for diagnosing it. The goal of this meta-analysis is to perform a pooled analysis of the diagnostic performance of two-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography, two-dimensional transvaginal sonohysterography, three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound, and three-dimensional transvaginal sonohysterography for the diagnosis of the septate uterus. Methods: Studies published between 1990 and 2022 were searched in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. From 897 citations, we selected eighteen studies to include in this meta-analysis. Results: The mean prevalence of uterine septum in this meta-analysis was 27.8%. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 83% and 99% for two-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography (ten studies), 94% and 100% for two-dimensional transvaginal sonohysterography (eight studies), and 98% and 100% for three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound (seven articles), respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of three-dimensional transvaginal sonohysterography was only described in two studies, and we did not calculate the pooled sensitivity and specificity for this method. Conclusion: Three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound has the best performance capacity for the diagnosis of the septate uterus.
Airway Epithelium: A Neglected but Crucial Cell Type in Asthma Pathobiology
Authors: Singh Sabita , Dutta Joytri , Ray Archita , Karmakar Atmaja , Mabalirajan Ulaganathan
Published: February 2023

The features of allergic asthma are believed to be mediated mostly through the Th2 immune response. In this Th2-dominant concept, the airway epithelium is presented as the helpless victim of Th2 cytokines. However, this Th2-dominant concept is inadequate to fill some of the vital knowledge gaps in asthma pathogenesis, like the poor correlation between airway inflammation and airway remodeling and severe asthma endotypes, including Th2-low asthma, therapy resistance, etc. Since the discovery of type 2 innate lymphoid cells in 2010, asthma researchers started believing in that the airway epithelium played a crucial role, as alarmins, which are the inducers of ILC2, are almost exclusively secreted by the airway epithelium. This underscores the eminence of airway epithelium in asthma pathogenesis. However, the airway epithelium has a bipartite functionality in sustaining healthy lung homeostasis and asthmatic lungs. On the one hand, the airway epithelium maintains lung homeostasis against environmental irritants/pollutants with the aid of its various armamentaria, including its chemosensory apparatus and detoxification system. Alternatively, it induces an ILC2-mediated type 2 immune response through alarmins to amplify the inflammatory response. However, the available evidence indicates that restoring epithelial health may attenuate asthmatic features. Thus, we conjecture that an epithelium-driven concept in asthma pathogenesis could fill most of the gaps in current asthma knowledge, and the incorporation of epithelial-protective agents to enhance the robustness of the epithelial barrier and the combative capacity of the airway epithelium against exogenous irritants/allergens may mitigate asthma incidence and severity, resulting in better asthma control.
AI: Can It Make a Difference to the Predictive Value of Ultrasound Breast Biopsy?
Authors: Browne Jean L. , Pascual Maria Ángela , Perez Jorge , Salazar Sulimar , Valero Beatriz , Rodriguez Ignacio , Cassina Darío , Alcázar Juan Luis , Guerriero Stefano , Graupera Betlem
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: This study aims to compare the ground truth (pathology results) against the BI-RADS classification of images acquired while performing breast ultrasound diagnostic examinations that led to a biopsy and against the result of processing the same images through the AI algorithm KOIOS DS TM (KOIOS). (2) Methods: All results of biopsies performed with ultrasound guidance during 2019 were recovered from the pathology department. Readers selected the image which better represented the BI-RADS classification, confirmed correlation to the biopsied image, and submitted it to the KOIOS AI software. The results of the BI-RADS classification of the diagnostic study performed at our institution were set against the KOIOS classification and both were compared to the pathology reports. (3) Results: 403 cases were included in this study. Pathology rendered 197 malignant and 206 benign reports. Four biopsies on BI-RADS 0 and two images are included. Of fifty BI-RADS 3 cases biopsied, only seven rendered cancers. All but one had a positive or suspicious cytology; all were classified as suspicious by KOIOS. Using KOIOS, 17 B3 biopsies could have been avoided. Of 347 BI-RADS 4, 5, and 6 cases, 190 were malignant (54.7%). Because only KOIOS suspicious and probably malignant categories should be biopsied, 312 biopsies would have resulted in 187 malignant lesions (60%), but 10 cancers would have been missed. (4) Conclusions: KOIOS had a higher ratio of positive biopsies in this selected case study vis-à-vis the BI-RADS 4, 5 and 6 categories. A large number of biopsies in the BI-RADS 3 category could have been avoided.
Unilateral Orbitopathy Caused by Skull Base Chordoid Meningioma
Authors: Yang Jia-He , Li Meng-Syuan , Shen Ming-Jin , Lin Yu-Hsuan
Published: February 2023

Chordoid meningioma (CM) makes up only 1% of all meningiomas. Most cases of this variant are locally aggressive, have high growth potential, and are likely to recur. Although CMs are known to be invasive, they rarely extend into the retro-orbital space. Herein, we report a case of a central skull base CM in a 78-year-old woman whose only manifestation was unilateral proptosis with impaired vision resulting from the tumor extending into the retro-orbital space through the superior orbital fissure. The diagnosis was confirmed by analysis of specimens collected during endoscopic orbital surgery, which simultaneously relieved the protruding eye and restored the patient’s visual acuity by decompressing the oppressed orbit. This rare presentation of CM reminds physicians there may be lesions outside the orbit that can cause unilateral orbitopathy and that endoscopic orbital surgery can be used to confirm its diagnosis as well as treat it.
Capacity Analysis of Power Beacon-Assisted Industrial IoT System with UAV Data Collector
Authors: Cvetković Aleksandra , Blagojević Vesna , Manojlović Jelena
Published: February 2023

The performance analysis of an energy constrained Internet of Things (IoT) system with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided in this paper. In the considered system, a power beacon is used for the energy supply of a sensor node that has no other power sources, while the UAV is used for the collection of sensor data. The outage and capacity performances are analyzed under the assumption of a Nakagami-m fading environment, for the case when the power and information transfer are performed based on the time-switching protocol and the UAV is randomly positioned at a certain height. Based on the provided analysis we derive the exact closed-form expressions for the outage probability, the outage capacity and the ergodic capacity of the power beacon assisted IoT system. The analytical results are confirmed using an independent simulation method. The performed analysis demonstrates the impact of various system and channel parameters on system performances.
Effect of Gap Length and Partition Thickness on Thermal Boundary Layer in Thermal Convection
Authors: Wang Zhengyu , Tong Huilin , Wang Zhengdao , Yang Hui , Wei Yikun , Qian Yuehong
Published: February 2023

Two-dimensional direct numerical simulations of partitioned thermal convection are performed using the thermal lattice Boltzmann method for the Rayleigh number (Ra) of 109 and the Prandtl number (Pr) of 7.02 (water). The influence of the partition walls on the thermal boundary layer is mainly focused on. Moreover, to better describe the spatially nonuniform thermal boundary layer, the definition of the thermal boundary layer is extended. The numerical simulation results show that the gap length significantly affects the thermal boundary layer and Nusselt number (Nu). The gap length and partition wall thickness have a coupled effect on the thermal boundary layer and the heat flux. Based on the shape of the thermal boundary layer distribution, two different heat transfer models are identified at different gap lengths. This study provides a basis for improving the understanding of the effect of partitions on the thermal boundary layer in thermal convection.
Round-Efficient Secure Inference Based on Masked Secret Sharing for Quantized Neural Network
Authors: Wei Weiming , Tang Chunming , Chen Yucheng
Published: February 2023

Existing secure multiparty computation protocol from secret sharing is usually under this assumption of the fast network, which limits the practicality of the scheme on the low bandwidth and high latency network. A proven method is to reduce the communication rounds of the protocol as much as possible or construct a constant-round protocol. In this work, we provide a series of constant-round secure protocols for quantized neural network (QNN) inference. This is given by masked secret sharing (MSS) in the three-party honest-majority setting. Our experiment shows that our protocol is practical and suitable for low-bandwidth and high-latency networks. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first one where the QNN inference based on masked secret sharing is implemented.
Evaluation and Recommendations for the Brazilian Version of safeMedicate: A Cross-Cultural Adaptation
Authors: Ozorio Dutra Samia Valeria , Chee Vanessa , Weeks Keith , Pontin David , Clochesy John M.
Published: February 2023

safeMedicate was developed as an English-language web-based system designed to support learning and competence development in solving medication dosage problems. Our purpose was to identify the adaptations necessary to implement safeMedicate for use in Brazil, with an explorative, qualitative design using an adapted Participatory and Iterative Process Framework for Language Adaptation (PIPFLA) process and the Delphi technique with online focus groups. Focus group transcripts were analyzed using content analysis. The main themes were language, visual content, programing, data, and strength. safeMedicate was considered to be acceptable for use in Brazil. Participants perceived that it would be welcomed by faculty and students as a way to address current teaching and practice gaps. Cultural and political barriers should be identified and addressed when adapting material for use in different national contexts.
Application of Feature Pyramid Network and Feature Fusion Single Shot Multibox Detector for Real-Time Prostate Capsule Detection
Authors: Wu Shixiao , Wang Xinghuan , Guo Chengcheng
Published: February 2023

In the process of feature propagation, the low-level convolution layers of the forward feature propagation network lack semantic information, and information loss occurs when fine-grained information is transferred to higher-level convolution; therefore, multi-stage feature fusion networks are needed to solve the interaction between low-level convolution layers and high-level convolution layers. Based on a two-way feature feedback network and feature fusion mechanism, we created a new object detection network called Feature Pyramid Network (FPN)-based Feature Fusion Single Shot Multibox Detector (FFSSD). A bottom-up and top-down architecture with lateral connections enhances the detector’s ability to extract features, then high-level multi-scale semantic feature maps are utilized to generate a feature pyramid network. The results show that the proposed network the mAP for prostate capsule image detection reaches 83.58%, providing real-time detection ability. The context interaction mechanism can transfer high-level semantic information to low-level convolution, and the resulting convolution after low-level and high-level fusion contains richer location and semantic information.
Negative Group Delay Metamaterials Based on Split-Ring Resonators and Their Application
Authors: Liu Zheng , Zhang Jian , Lei Xue , Gao Jun , Xu Zhijian , Li Tianpeng
Published: February 2023

In this report, negative group delay (NGD) metamaterials based on split-ring resonators (SRRs) are discussed. A theoretical analysis is proposed to calculate the equivalent circuit parameters, NGD values, and S21 amplitudes of two types of SRRs. Metamaterials made from tantalum nitride are simulated, and the parameters of the two types of SRRs are discussed. Prototypes of metamaterials were fabricated and tested. Measured real-world results were found to be consistent with theoretical and simulated predictions. For EC-SRR, a negative group delay of up to −0.1 ns was achieved at 12–13 GHz. For SR-SRR of the same size as the out ring of EC-SRR, a negative group delay of up to −0.04 ns was achieved, with a loss lower than 2.7 dB. The proposed SRRs were applied to continuous transverse stub (CTS) antenna to reduce the beam walk. The simulation shows that the beam walk can be reduced using the proposed metamaterial.
The Performance of Electronic Current Transformer Fault Diagnosis Model: Using an Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm and RBF Neural Network
Authors: Yang Pengju , Wang Taoyun , Yang Heng , Meng Chuipan , Zhang Hao , Cheng Li
Published: February 2023

With the widely application of electronic transformers in smart grids, transformer faults have become a pressing problem. However, reliable fault diagnosis of electronic current transformers (ECT) is still an open problem due to the complexity and diversity of fault types. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes an ECT fault diagnosis model based on radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) and optimizes the model parameters and the network size of RBFNN simultaneously via an improved whale optimization algorithm (WOA) to improve the classification accuracy and robustness of RBFNN. Since the classical WOA is easy to fall into a locally optimal performance, a hybrid multi-strategies WOA algorithm (CASAWOA) is proposed for further improvement in optimization performance. Firstly, we introduced the tent chaotic map strategy to improve the population diversity of WOA. Secondly, we introduced nonlinear convergence factor and adaptive inertia weight to enhance the exploitation ability of the WOA. Finally, on the premise of ensuring the convergence speed of the algorithm, we modified the simulated annealing mechanism in order to prevent premature convergence. The benchmark function tests show that the CASAWOA outperforms other state-of-the-art WOA algorithms in terms of convergence speed and exploration ability. Furthermore, to validate the performance of ECT fault diagnosis model based on CASAWOA-RBFNN, a comprehensive analysis of eight fault diagnosis methods is conducted based on the ECT fault samples collected from the detection circuit. The experimental results show that the CASAWOA-RBFNN achieves an accuracy of 97.77% in ECT fault diagnosis, which is 9.8% better than WOA-RBF and which shows promising engineering practicality.
Diagnosis of Stator Winding and Permanent Magnet Faults of PMSM Drive Using Shallow Neural Networks
Authors: Skowron Maciej , Orlowska-Kowalska Teresa , Kowalski Czeslaw T.
Published: February 2023

This paper presents the application of shallow neural networks (SNNs): multi-layer perceptron (MLP) and self-organizing Kohonen maps (SOMs) to the early detection and classification of the stator and rotor faults in permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs). The neural networks were trained based on the vector coming from measurements on a real object. The elements of the input vector of SNNs constituted the selected amplitudes of the diagnostic signal spectrum. The stator current and axial flux were used as diagnostic signals. The test object was a 2.5 kW PMSM motor supplied by a frequency converter operating in a closed-loop control structure. The experimental verification of the proposed diagnostic system was carried out for variable load conditions and values of the supply voltage frequency. The obtained results were compared with an approach based on a deep neural network (DNN). The research presented in the article confirm the possibility of detection and assessing the individual damage of stator winding and permanent magnets as well as the simultaneous faults of the PMSM stator and rotor using SNNs with simple signal preprocessing.
Resource Allocation in C-V2X Mode 3 Based on the Exchanged Preference Profiles
Authors: Yuan Dizhe , Hu Denghua , Chen Xihong
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we investigate the resource block (RB) allocation problem in cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) networks mode 3, where the cellular networks schedule the RBs for direct vehicular communications. First, we establish the communication model and introduce the effective capacity and queuing theory to describe the reliability of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) links. Then, we introduce the α-fair function and formulate the joint power control and RB allocation problem considering the allocation fairness and the different quality-of-service (QoS) requirements for vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and V2V links. Our objective is to maximize the sum capacity of all V2I links with the α-fair function while guaranteeing the allocation fairness among V2I links and the transmission reliability for each V2V pair. To achieve this objective, we propose a novel matching game theory algorithm based on the exchanged preference profiles between the two participant sets, i.e., V2V and V2I links. Simulation results show that our proposed algorithm is adaptive to the dynamic vehicular network and achieves better efficiency and fairness trade-offs, outperforming the classic allocation method.
Coal Gangue Classification Based on the Feature Extraction of the Volume Visual Perception ExM-SVM
Authors: Alfarzaeai Murad S. , Hu Eryi , Peng Wang , Qiang Niu , Alkainaeai Maged M. A.
Published: February 2023

Computer-vision-based separation methods for coal gangue face challenges due to the harsh environmental conditions in the mines, leading to the reduction of separation accuracy. So, rather than purely depending on the image features to distinguish the coal gangue, it is meaningful to utilize fixed coal characteristics like density. This study achieves the classification of coal and gangue based on their mass, volume, and weight. A dataset of volume, weight and 3_side images is collected. By using 3_side images of coal gangue, the visual perception value of the volume is extracted (ExM) to represent the volume of the object. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier receives (ExM) and the weight to perform the coal gangue classification. The proposed system eliminates computer vision problems like light intensity, dust, and heterogeneous coal sources. The proposed model was tested with a collected dataset and achieved high recognition accuracy (KNN 100%, Linear SVM 100%, RBF SVM 100%, Gaussian Process 100%, Decision Tree 98%, Random Forest 100%, MLP 100%, AdaBosst 100%, Naive Bayes 98%, and QDA 99%). A cross-validation test has been done to verify the generalization ability. The results also demonstrate high classification accuracy (KNN 96%, Linear SVM 100%, RBF SVM 96%, Gaussian Process 96%, Decision Tree 99%, Random Forest 99%, MLP 100%, AdaBosst 99%, Naive Bayes 99%, and QDA 99%). The results show the high ability of the proposed technique ExM-SVM in coal gangue classification tasks.