bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-fraction SRS and multiple-fraction SRT for brain metastases from colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Yong , Wu Junlan , Liu Fenghua , Shao Xianjun , Liang Xiaohua , Zhang Feifei , Meng Yan , Shen Meihua , Pan Mianshun
Published: December 2022

Objective

Brain metastasis from colorectal cancer (CRC) is rare. Although stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are effective treatments for brain metastasis, reports on brain metastasis of CRC are limited. This study compared the efficacy of SRT and SRS for the treatment of brain metastases from CRC and analysed the related factors to reveal the specificity CRC-derived brain metastasis.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 116 patients with brain metastases from colorectal cancer was performed and included 56 patients in the SRT group and 60 patients in the SRS group. The clinical characteristics of the two groups were analysed, and the local tumour control rate, overall survival time and radiation-induced brain injury were compared between the two groups.

Results

The objective response rates of the SRT and SRS groups were 76.8% and 66.7%, respectively, while the local control rates at 6 months were 87.5% and 81.6%, respectively, and no significant differences were observed between the groups (P=0.295). The median overall survival time was 10.3 months for all patients and was 10.9 months in the SRT group and 9.8 months in the SRS group, with no significant difference between the groups (P=0.123). A multivariate analysis showed that the main factors of poor prognosis were low GPA score (P=0.002), KRAS mutation (P=0.035), extracranial metastasis (P=0.005) and no bevacizumab treatment (P=0.001). No significant difference was observed in the incidence of acute and late radiation-induced injury between the two groups.

Conclusion

Both SRT and SRS are effective methods for the treatment of CRC-derived brain metastases. The simultaneous use of bevacizumab may be one of the most important factors that affects the survival of these patients.
Analysis of risk factors and construction of a prediction model for short stature in children
Authors: Huang Shaojun , Chen Zhiqi , Chen Rongping , Zhang Zhen , Sun Jia , Chen Hong
Published: December 2022

Background

Short stature in children is an important global health issue. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with short stature and to construct a clinical prediction model and risk classification system for short stature.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 12,504 children aged 6–14 years of age from 13 primary and secondary schools in Pingshan District, Shenzhen. A physical examination was performed to measure the height and weight of the children. Questionnaires were used to obtain information about children and their parents, including sex, age, family environment, social environment, maternal conditions during pregnancy, birth and feeding, and lifestyle. The age confounding variable was adjusted through a 1 : 1 propensity score matching (PSM) analysis and 1,076 children were selected for risk factor analysis.

Results

The prevalence of short stature in children aged 6–14 years was 4.3% in the Pingshan District, Shenzhen. The multivariate logistic regression model showed that the influencing factors for short stature were father's height, mother's height, annual family income, father's level of education and parents’ concern for their children's height in the future (P < 0.05). Based on the short stature multivariate logistic regression model, a short stature nomogram prediction model was constructed. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.748, indicating a good degree of discrimination of the nomogram. According to the calibration curve, the Hosmer–Lemesio test value was 0.917, and the model was considered to be accurate. Based on a risk classification system derived from the nomogram prediction model, the total score of the nomogram was 127.5, which is considered the cutoff point to divides all children into low-risk and high-risk groups.

Conclusion

This study analyzed the risk factors for short stature in children and constructed a nomogram prediction model and a risk classification system based on these risk factors, as well as providing short stature screening and assessment individually.
Radioactive ion beam opportunities at the new FRAISE facility of INFN-LNS
Authors: Martorana N. S. , Cardella G. , Guazzoni C. , Pagano E. V. , Russo A. D. , Russotto P. , Acosta L. , Amato A. , Calabretta L. , Caruso A. , Cavallaro S. , Cosentino L. , Costa M. , De Filippo E. , De Luca G. , Geraci E. , Gnoffo B. , Maiolino C. , Passarello S. , Pirrone S. , Politi G. , Pulvirenti S. , Risitano F. , Rizzo F. , Santonocito D. , Trifiró A. , Trimarchi M. , Tudisco S. , Vecchio G.
Published: December 2022

At the Laboratori Nazionali del Sud of INFN (INFN-LNS) in Catania, the construction of the new Radioactive Ion Beams (RIBs) facility FRAISE (FRAgment In-flight SEparator) has reached its ending phase. The facility uses the in-flight technique based on a primary beam fragmentation impinging on light Be or C targets. FRAISE makes use of light and medium mass primary beams, having power up to ≈ 2–3 kW, leading to RIBs, whose intensities vary in the range of ≈ 103–107 pps, for nuclei far from and close to the stability valley, respectively. FRAISE aims at providing high-intensity and high-quality RIBs for nuclear physics experiments, also serving to interdisciplinary research areas, such as medical physics. Critical aspects for high-quality beams are the tuning and transport, representing time-consuming processes and requiring dedicated diagnostics and tagging devices measuring many features of RIBs. Some of these devices should be capable to operate in radioactively activated environments because of the expected 2 kW beam lost in the dipole after the production target. Due to its peculiar robustness to radioactive damage, Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology has been considered for the detection layer. In this view, an R&D campaign has been started aiming at developing the FRAISE facility, the new diagnostics system, and a new tagging device, the latter of which will be useful for the CHIMERA multidetector beamline. In this paper, we discuss the status and the perspectives of the facility with a focus on the RIBs opportunities.
Branched-chain amino acids promotes the repair of exercise-induced muscle damage via enhancing macrophage polarization
Authors: Dong Yunfeng , Zhang Xuejiao , Miao Rui , Cao Wei , Wei Hao , Jiang Wei , Gao Ruirui , Yang Yanhui , Sun Haipeng , Qiu Junqiang
Published: December 2022

The repair of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is closely related with inflammation. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), as a nutritional supplement, promote EIMD repair; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In vivo, Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to Armstrong’s eccentric exercise (a 120-min downhill run with a slope of −16° and a speed of 16 m min−1) to induce EIMD and BCAA supplement was administered by oral gavage. Protein expression of macrophages (CD68 and CD163) and myogenic regulatory factors (MYOD and MYOG) in gastrocnemius was analyzed. Inflammatory cytokines and creatine kinase (CK) levels in serum was also measured. In vitro, peritoneal macrophages from mice were incubated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or IL-4 with or without BCAAs in culture medium. For co-culture experiment, C2C12 cells were cultured with the conditioned medium from macrophages prestimulated with LPS or IL-4 in the presence or absence of BCAAs. The current study indicated BCAA supplementation enhanced the M1/M2 polarization of macrophages in skeletal muscle during EIMD repair, and BCAAs promoted M1 polarization through enhancing mTORC1-HIF1α-glycolysis pathway, and promoted M2 polarization independently of mTORC1. In addition, BCAA-promoted M1 macrophages further stimulated the proliferation of muscle satellite cells, whereas BCAA-promoted M2 macrophages stimulated their differentiation. Together, these results show macrophages mediate the BCAAs’ beneficial impacts on EIMD repair via stimulating the proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cells, shedding light on the critical role of inflammation in EIMD repair and the potential nutritional strategies to ameliorate muscle damage.
Study-related wellbeing, behavior, and attitudes of university students in the Netherlands during emergency remote teaching in the context of COVID-19: A longitudinal study
Authors: Vollmann Manja , Scheepers Renée A. , Nieboer Anna P. , Hilverda Femke
Published: December 2022

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, emergency remote teaching was implemented at all conventional Dutch universities; however, the degree of limitations in on-campus teaching and learning varied during the pandemic dependent on the strictness of the measures. In the present study, it will be investigated how study-related experiences of university students changed in the face of varying limitations in on-campus teaching and learning.

Methods

The study had a longitudinal natural experiment design with three points of measurement during the academic year 2020–2021: November–December 2020 (t1; campuses partially open), March 2021 (t2; campuses fully closed) and June–July 2021 (t3; campuses partially open). In total, 680 Dutch university students (65.9% female; age: M = 21 years, SD = 2.06) filled in online surveys measuring study-related wellbeing (academic burnout and study-engagement), study-related behavior (study effort), and study-related attitudes (education satisfaction, online self-efficacy, and attitudes toward online education).

Results

Overall, students reported moderate levels of academic burnout, study engagement, study effort, education satisfaction, and online self-efficacy; their attitudes toward online education were rather negative. Students’ study-related wellbeing and education satisfaction decreased in the period when on-campus teaching and learning was impossible (t2) compared to periods in which on-campus teaching and learning was possible at a low level with several restrictions (t1 and t3). Students’ attitudes toward online education and online self-efficacy slightly increased at the end of the academic year (t3); however, the attitudes toward online education remained negative.

Discussion

The findings indicate that students’ academic burnout, study engagement, and education satisfaction varied over the course of the academic year in the context of changing limitations in on-campus teaching and learning. To facilitate positive study-related experiences, universities are advised to offer as much on-campus education as possible in times of pandemics.
Influence of play on positive psychological development in emerging adulthood: A serial mediation model
Authors: Ho Wing W. Y.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Although the literature reports that play provides substantial psychological benefits for individuals, it is often only emphasized by educators for younger children but less so for emerging adults. This cross-sectional study examined the impact of time spent engaged in play on emerging adults’ emotional intelligence, emotional traits, and resilience.

Methods

Participants (N = 131, 93.9% women) were full-time undergraduate students between the ages of 19 and 25 (M = 21.28,SD = 1.08).

Results

Results showed that play experiences cultivated emotional intelligence and strengthened resilience. Further, the findings supported a serial mediation model in which play was indirectly related to resilience through its effect on emotional intelligence and positive emotion.

Discussion

Play is recognized as a means to relieve stress and protect psychological wellbeing. Emerging adults who experience pleasure, enjoyment, learning, and the acquisition of new skills will benefit from play. Individuals should enhance positive play experiences, particularly sporting activities, to maintain a healthy work-life balance given the positive relationship between play, emotional intelligence, emotional traits, and resilience.
Cross-modal association analysis and matching model construction of perceptual attributes of multiple colors and combined tones
Authors: Wang Shuang , Liu Jingyu , Lan Xuedan , Hu Qihang , Jiang Jian , Zhang Jingjing
Published: December 2022

Audio-visual correlation is a common phenomenon in real life. In this article, aiming at analyzing the correlation between multiple colors and combined tones, we comprehensively used experimental methods and technologies such as experimental psychology methods, audio-visual information processing technology, and machine learning algorithms to study the correlation mechanism between the multi-color perceptual attributes and the interval consonance attribute of musical sounds, so as to construct an audio-visual cross-modal matching models. Specifically, in the first, this article constructed the multi-color perceptual attribute dataset through the subjective evaluation experiment, namely “cold/warm,” “soft/hard,” “transparent/turbid,” “far/near,” “weak/strong,” pleasure, arousal, and dominance; and constructed the interval consonance attribute dataset based on calculating the audio objective parameters. Secondly, a subjective evaluation experiment of cross-modal matching was designed and carried out for analyzing the audio-visual correlation, so as to obtain the cross-modal matched and mismatched data between the audio-visual perceptual attributes. On this basis, through visual processing and correlation analysis of the matched and mismatched data, this article proved that there is a certain correlation between multicolor and combined tones from the perspective of perceptual attributes. Finally, this article used linear and non-linear machine learning algorithms to construct audio-visual cross-modal matching models, so as to realize the mutual prediction between the audio-visual perceptual attributes, and the highest prediction accuracy is up to 79.1%. The contributions of our research are: (1) The cross-modal matched and mismatched dataset can provide basic data support for audio-visual cross-modal research; (2) The constructed audio-visual cross-modal matching models can provide a theoretical basis for audio-visual interaction technology; (3) In addition, the research method of audio-visual cross-modal matching proposed in this article can provide new research ideas for related research.
Hypertension and undiagnosed hypertension among Bangladeshi adults: Identifying prevalence and associated factors using a nationwide survey
Authors: Hossain Ahmed , Suhel Shakib Ahmed , Chowdhury Saifur Rahman , Islam Shofiqul , Akther Nayma , Dhor Nipa Rani , Hossain Mohammad Zakir , Hossain Mohammad Anwar , Rahman Syed Azizur
Published: December 2022

Background

Although undiagnosed hypertension (HTN) is a serious concern worldwide, it is less of an importance in Bangladesh, where there is a dearth of research on the subject. So, we aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors for diagnosed and undiagnosed HTN.

Methods

We analyzed the recent 2017–2018 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data. We included 11,981 participants aged 18 years and above for the analysis. The prevalence rates of both diagnosed and undiagnosed hypertension were computed for all individuals and subgroups. The influence of socio-demographic, household, and community-related variables on HTN and undiagnosed HTN was investigated using multinomial regression analysis.

Results

The study finds 1,464 (12.2%) of the 11,981 respondents [6,815 females [56.9 %]; mean age 39.4 years] had diagnosed HTN, whereas 1 898 (15.8%) had undiagnosed HTN. The HTN and undiagnosed HTN were significantly prevalent in the elderly, type 2 diabetic (T2DM), and overweight and obese individuals. In terms of residential regions, people from coastal region had a significantly higher prevalence of both HTN (RRR: 1.37; 95% CI: 1.17–1.62) and undiagnosed HTN (RRR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.17–1.56) compared to those from the central region of Bangladesh.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of undetected hypertension in Bangladesh suggests that screening procedures for the current chronic illness may be inadequate in routine clinical practice. All populations should have access to hypertension screening, but it is especially crucial for the elderly, those with diabetes, those who are overweight or obese, and those from coastal and northern regions of Bangladesh.
Evaluation of a special needs dental workshop for health professionals and students in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Balkaran Ramaa , Perry Maureen , Maharaj Anushka , Rajhbeharrysingh Amrita , Virtanen Jorma I.
Published: December 2022

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate a special needs dental workshop for dentists, allied dental health professionals and students in Trinidad and Tobago.

Methods

This feedback study conducted in 2019–2020, included two surveys, one at the time of the workshop and a second survey one year after it. The first survey utilized an anonymous self-administered questionnaire enquiring about the reason for attendance, profession/education, demographics, and difficulties faced in treating patients with special needs. The follow-up study used an online survey tool assessing the workshop and queried comments/suggestions. The Chi-square test served for statistical analysis.

Results

Of the 176 attendees 131 participated (response: 74.4%). The majority (81.5%) were females. Most attendees were dental students (50.3%) or dentists (38.9%). Knowledge acquisition (73.1%) and professional development (14.2%) were the main motives for attendance while communication (31.8%) and non-compliance (34.5%) were the main problems faced in treating patients with special needs. The follow-up evaluation (post-workshop) (response: 72.5%) showed that most participants (90.5%) assessed the workshop as positive; 80% reported an increase in their knowledge and 64.2% perceived a need for further education.

Conclusion

These findings suggest a considerable demand for special needs dental services and continuing education and show that workshops can actively affect patient care.
On a Hypothetical Model with Second Kind Chebyshev’s Polynomial–Correction: Type of Limit Cycles, Simulations, and Possible Applications
Authors: Kyurkchiev Nikolay , Iliev Anton
Published: December 2022

In this article, we explore a new extended Lienard-type planar system with “corrections” of the second kind Chebyshev’s polynomial Un. The number and type of limit cycles are also studied. The discussion on the y(t)—component of the solution of the Lienard system is connected to searching for the solution of the synthesis of filters and electrical circuits. Numerical experiments, depicting our outcomes using CAS MATHEMATICA, are presented.
Temporary Reversal of Hepatoenteric Collaterals during 90Y Radioembolization Planning and Administration
Authors: Habibollahi Peiman , Odisio Bruno C. , Gurusamy Varshana , Kuban Joshua D. , Avritscher Rony , Abdelsalam Mohamed E. , Chasen Beth A. , Murthy Ravi , Mahvash Armeen
Published: December 2022

Purpose: This paper aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the temporary redirection of blood flow of hepatoenteric collaterals using a balloon catheter in the common hepatic artery (CHA) to prevent the nontarget deposition of 90Y microspheres. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective single-center study of patients who received 90Y radioembolization (RE) from September 2010 to September 2015, diagnostic (67 patients) or treatment (72 patients) angiograms with the attempted use of a balloon catheter in the CHA to temporarily direct blood flow away from the hepatoenteric arteries were analyzed. SPECT/CT nuclear scintigraphy was performed after both diagnosis and treatment. Results: Overall, only 12 hepatoenteric arteries in 11 patients required embolization due to persistent hepatoenteric flow despite the use of the balloon occlusion technique in a total of 86 patients. Physicians performed the 90Y RE using balloon occlusion with glass (n = 22) or resin (n = 50) microspheres. Over 80% administration of the prescribed 90Y dose was accomplished in 34 (67%) resin and 20 (95%) glass microsphere patients. Post-treatment 90Y RE scintigraphy confirmed the absence of extrahepatic activity in all patients. One grade 2 gastrointestinal ulcer was present after 90 days of follow-up. Conclusion: Temporary CHA occlusion with a balloon catheter is a reliable and reproducible alternative to the conventional coil embolization of hepatoenteric arteries during diagnostic Tc-99m macroaggregated albumin and therapeutic 90Y RE delivery.
Efficient Combustion of Low Calorific Industrial Gases: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Zhang Long , Zhang Shanshan , Zhou Hua , Ren Zhuyin , Wang Hongchuan , Wang Xiuxun
Published: December 2022

It is becoming increasingly important to develop effective combustion technologies for low calorific industrial gases (LCIG) because of the rising energy demand and environmental issues caused by the extensive use of fossil fuels. In this review, the prospect of these opportunity fuels in China is discussed. Then, the recent fundamental and engineering studies of LCIG combustion are summarized. Specifically, the differences between LCIG and traditional fuels in the composition and fundamental combustion characteristics are described. The state-of-the-art combustion strategies for burning LCIG are reviewed, including porous media combustion, flameless combustion, oxy-fuel combustion, and dual-fuel combustion. The technical challenges and further development needs for efficient LCIG combustion are also discussed.
Comparative Performance of DFIG and PMSG Wind Turbines during Transient State in Weak and Strong Grid Conditions Considering Series Dynamic Braking Resistor
Authors: Okedu Kenneth , Muyeen S.
Published: December 2022

The recently stipulated grid codes require wind generators to re-initiate normal power production after grid voltage sag. This paper presents a comparative performance of two commonly employed variable speed wind turbines in today’s electricity market, the doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) and the permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) wind turbines. The evaluation of both wind turbines was performed for weak, normal and strong grids, considering the same machine ratings of the wind turbines. Because of the critical situations of the wind turbines during faulty conditions in the weak grids, an analysis was done considering the use of effective series dynamic braking resistor (SDBR) for both wind turbines. The grid voltage variable was employed as the signal for switching the SDBR in both wind turbines during transient state. Additionally, an overvoltage protection system was considered for both wind turbines using the DC chopper in the DC-link excitation circuitry of both wind turbines. Furthermore, a combination of the SDBR over-voltage protection scheme (OVPS) was employed in both wind turbines at weak grid condition in order to improve the performance of the variable speed wind turbines and keep the operation of the power converters within their permissible limits. Furthermore, the performance of the DFIG and PMSG wind turbines in weak grids were further investigated, considering the combination of 75% and 50% effectively sized SDBR and OVPS. It was observed that, even with a 50% reduction in SDBR or OVPS, the performance of both wind turbines is still satisfactory with faulty conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to use a combination of the SDBR and OVPS with DFIG- or PMSG-based variable speed wind turbines to achieve a superior fault ride through performance, especially in weak grids. The system performance was evaluated using the power system computer design and electromagnetic transient including DC (PSCAD/EMTDC) platform.
Improved Method for Determining Voltage Unbalance Factor Using Induction Motors
Authors: Guasch-Pesquer Luis , García-Ríos Sara , Jaramillo-Matta Adolfo Andres , Vidal-Idiarte Enric
Published: December 2022

This work shows an alternative method to determine the Voltage Unbalance Factor in a power grid by using both the mean value of the line voltages and Current Unbalance Factor in induction motors. Twenty unbalanced voltage points on three induction motors were used in order to compare the two methods. The influence of the measurement error of both the voltmeters and the ammeters on the resulting Voltage Unbalance Factor was studied, and the validation was made with laboratory data for one of the three motors analyzed, in addition to the simulations carried out. The proposed Voltage Unbalance Factor was compared with the most typical method in the standards to obtain this factor, showing that the proposed factor has a better approach than the standard factor to determine the value of the Voltage Unbalance Factor in an unbalanced power system.
Cucurbitacin B-, E-, and I-Induced Browning of White Adipocytes Is Promoted by the Inhibition of Phospholipase D2
Authors: Park Sun Young , Kang Hye Mi , Oh Jin-Woo , Choi Young-Whan , Park Geuntae
Published: December 2022

The mechanism of white adipose tissue browning is not well understood; however, naturally occurring compounds are known to play a positive role. The effects of cucurbitacins B, E, and I on the browning of mature white adipocytes were investigated. First, the cell viability exhibited by cucurbitacins B, E, and I in pre- and mature adipocytes was verified. Cucurbitacins B, E, and I had no effect on cell viability in pre- and mature adipocytes at concentrations up to 300 nM. To investigate the characteristics of representative beige adipocytes, the formation and morphology of cucurbitacin B, E, and I lipid droplets were verified. The total lipid droplet surface area, maximum Feret diameter, and total Nile red staining intensity of cucurbitacin B-, E-, and I-treated adipocytes were lower than those of mature white adipocytes. Furthermore, treatment of white mature adipocytes with cucurbitacin B, E, and I led to the formation of several small lipid droplets that are readily available for energy expenditure. We evaluated the effect of cucurbitacins B, E, and I on the expression of representative browning markers UCP1, PGC1a, and PRDM16, which participate in the browning of white adipose tissue. Cucurbitacins B, E, and I increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of UCP1, PGC1a, and PRDM16 in a concentration-dependent manner. To promote energy consumption by beige adipocytes, active mitochondrial biogenesis is essential. Next, we investigated the effects of cucurbitacin B, E, and I on mitochondrial biogenesis in mature adipocytes. Mitochondrial mass increased when mature adipocytes were treated with cucurbitacin B, E, and I. The degree of cucurbitacin B-, E- and I-induced transformation of white adipocytes into beige adipocytes was in the order of Cu E > Cu B > Cu I. To verify the effect of phospholipase D2 on the browning of white adipocytes, CAY10594—a PLD2 pharmacological inhibitor, and a knockdown system were used. PLD2 inhibition and knockdown improved the expression levels of UCP1, PGC1a, and PRDM16. In addition, PLD2 inhibition and knockdown in mature white adipocytes promoted mitochondrial biosynthesis. The effect of PLD2 inhibition and knockdown on promoting browning of white adipocytes significantly increased when Cu B, Cu E, and Cu I were co-treated. These data indicate that mature white adipocytes’ beige properties were induced by cucurbitacins B, E, and I. These effects became more potent by the inhibition of PLD2. These findings provide a model for determining anti-obesity agents that induce browning and increase energy expenditure in mature white adipocytes.
Genetic Study of Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease in Cyprus
Authors: Abu Manneh Rana , Chairta Paraskevi P. , Mitsi Ellie , Loizidou Maria A. , Georgiou Andrea N. , Christou Yiolanda P. , Pantzaris Marios , Zamba-Papanicolaou Eleni , Hadjisavvas Andreas
Published: December 2022

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. The etiology of PD remains unclear. However, several studies have demonstrated the interplay of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors in PD. Early-onset PD (EOPD) is a subgroup of PD diagnosed between the ages of 21 and 50. Population genetic studies have demonstrated great genetic variability amongst EOPD patients. Hence, this study aimed to obtain a genetic landscape of EOPD in the Cypriot population. Greek-Cypriot EOPD patients (n = 48) were screened for variants in the six most common EOPD-associated genes (PINK1, PRKN, FBXO7, SNCA, PLA2G6, and DJ-1). This included DNA sequencing and Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA). One previously described frameshift variant in PINK1 (NM_032409.3:c.889del) was detected in five patients (10.4%)—the largest number to be detected to date. Copy number variations in the PRKN gene were identified in one homozygous and 3 compound heterozygous patients (8.3%). To date, the pathogenic variants identified in this study have explained the PD phenotype for 18.8% of the EOPD cases. The results of this study may contribute to the genetic screening of EOPD in Cyprus.
Analysis of SLC26A4, FOXI1, and KCNJ10 Gene Variants in Patients with Incomplete Partition of the Cochlea and Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) Anomalies
Authors: Klarov Leonid A. , Pshennikova Vera G. , Romanov Georgii P. , Cherdonova Aleksandra M. , Solovyev Aisen V. , Teryutin Fedor M. , Luginov Nikolay V. , Kotlyarov Petr M. , Barashkov Nikolay A.
Published: December 2022

Pathogenic variants in the SLC26A4, FOXI1, and KCNJ10 genes are associated with hearing loss (HL) and specific inner ear abnormalities (DFNB4). In the present study, phenotype analyses, including clinical data collection, computed tomography (CT), and audiometric examination, were performed on deaf individuals from the Sakha Republic of Russia (Eastern Siberia). In cases with cochleovestibular malformations, molecular genetic analysis of the coding regions of the SLC26A4, FOXI1, and KCNJ10 genes associated with DFNB4 was completed. In six of the 165 patients (3.6%), CT scans revealed an incomplete partition of the cochlea (IP-1 and IP-2), in isolation or combined with an enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) anomaly. Sequencing of the SLC26A4, FOXI1, and KCNJ10 genes was performed in these six patients. In the SLC26A4 gene, we identified four variants, namely c.85G>C p.(Glu29Gln), c.757A>G p.(Ile253Val), c.2027T>A p.(Leu676Gln), and c.2089+1G>A (IVS18+1G>A), which are known as pathogenic, as well as c.441G>A p.(Met147Ile), reported previously as a variant with uncertain significance. Using the AlphaFold algorithm, we found in silico evidence of the pathogenicity of this variant. We did not find any causative variants in the FOXI1 and KCNJ10 genes, nor did we find any evidence of digenic inheritance associated with double heterozygosity for these genes with monoallelic SLC26A4 variants. The contribution of biallelic SLC26A4 variants in patients with IP-1, IP-2, IP-2+EVA, and isolated EVA was 66.7% (DFNB4 in three patients, Pendred syndrome in one patient). Seventy-five percent of SLC26A4-biallelic patients had severe or profound HL. The morphology of the inner ear anomalies demonstrated that, among SLC26A4-biallelic patients, all types of incomplete partition of the cochlea are possible, from IP-1 and IP-2, to a normal cochlea. However, the dominant type of anomaly was IP-2+EVA (50.0%). This finding is very important for cochlear implantation, since the IP-2 anomaly does not have an increased risk of “gushers” and recurrent meningitis.
Principal Component Analysis to Assess the Changes of Yield and Quality in Pinellia ternata at Different Stages after Brassinolide Treatments
Authors: Guo Chenchen , Zhang Yanfen , Wu Dengyun , Wang Mengyue , Du Yu , Chu Jianzhou , Yao Xiaoqin
Published: December 2022

Brassinolide (BR) is the “sixth class” plant hormone, which plays an important role in various physiological and biochemical processes of plants. The wide variety of functions of Pinellia ternata means that there is huge demand for it and thus it is in short supply. This paper mainly assessed the changes of yield and quality in P. ternata at different stages after BR treatments by principal component analysis, in order to improve the yield and quality of P. ternata and at the same time determine the best harvest time. The results showed that the tuber yield of P. ternata was significantly increased by BR treatments at different stages (except for the 15th day). After the 15th, 45th, 60th, 75th, 90th, and 105th day of treatments, the tuber yield of P. ternata reached peak values at 0.10 (0.65 g), 0.50 (1.97 g), 0.50 (1.98 g), 1.00 (2.37 g), 1.00 (2.84 g), and 2.00 mg/L (3.76 g) BR treatment, respectively. The optimal harvest time was the 75th day after 0.10, 0.50, and 1.00 mg/L BR treatments, which not only significantly improved the yield of P. ternata, but also retained high level of total alkaloids in the tubers (20.89, 5.37, and 13.44%) and bulbils (9.74, 20.42, and 13.62%), high total flavone content in the tubers (17.66, 16.26, and 12.74%) and bulbils (52.63, 12.79, and 38.69%), and high β-sitosterol content in the tubers (25.26, 16.65, and 0.62%) of P. ternata, compared with the control, respectively.
Artemisia gmelinii Extract Alleviates Allergic Airway Inflammation via Balancing TH1/TH2 Homeostasis and Inhibiting Mast Cell Degranulation
Authors: Nguyen Thi Van , Piao Chun Hua , Fan Yan Jing , Yu Zhen Nan , Lee So-Young , Song Chang Ho , Shin Hee Soon , Chai Ok Hee
Published: December 2022

A new terminology “combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome (CARAS)” was introduced to describe patients suffering from both allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma. The pathogenesis of allergic airway inflammation has been well known, with the main contribution of TH1/TH2 imbalance and mast cell degranulation. Artemisia gmelinii has been used as an herbal medicine with its hepaprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. In this study, the effect of A. gmelinii extracts (AGE) on the ovalbumin (OVA)-induced CARAS mouse model was investigated. AGE administration significantly alleviated the nasal rubbing and sneezing, markedly down-regulated both OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, and histamine levels, and up-regulated OVA-specific IgG2a in serum. The altered histology of nasal and lung tissues of CARAS mice was effectively ameliorated by AGE. The AGE treatment group showed markedly increased levels of the TH1 cytokine interleukin (IL)-12 and TH1 transcription factor T-bet. In contrast, the levels of the TH2 cytokines, including IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and the TH2 transcription factor GATA-3, were notably suppressed by AGE. Moreover, AGE effectively prevented mast cell degranulation in vitro and mast cell infiltration in lung tissues in vivo. Based on these results, we suggest that AGE could be a potential therapeutic agent in OVA-induced CARAS by virtue of its role in balancing the TH1/TH2 homeostasis and inhibiting the mast cell degranulation.
An Accurate Approach for Computational pKa Determination of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Pezzola Silvia , Tarallo Samuele , Iannini Alessandro , Venanzi Mariano , Galloni Pierluca , Conte Valeria , Sabuzi Federica
Published: December 2022

Computational chemistry is a valuable tool, as it allows for in silico prediction of key parameters of novel compounds, such as pKa. In the framework of computational pKa determination, the literature offers several approaches based on different level of theories, functionals and continuum solvation models. However, correction factors are often used to provide reliable models that adequately predict pKa. In this work, an accurate protocol based on a direct approach is proposed for computing phenols pKa. Importantly, this methodology does not require the use of correction factors or mathematical fitting, making it highly practical, easy to use and fast. Above all, DFT calculations performed in the presence two explicit water molecules using CAM-B3LYP functional with 6-311G+dp basis set and a solvation model based on density (SMD) led to accurate pKa values. In particular, calculations performed on a series of 13 differently substituted phenols provided reliable results, with a mean absolute error of 0.3. Furthermore, the model achieves accurate results with -CN and -NO2 substituents, which are usually excluded from computational pKa studies, enabling easy and reliable pKa determination in a wide range of phenols.
Improving Convergence Speed of Bat Algorithm Using Multiple Pulse Emissions along Multiple Directions
Authors: Younas Waqar , Ali Gauhar , Ahmad Naveed , Abbas Qamar , Masood Muhammad Talha , Munir Asim , ElAffendi Mohammed
Published: December 2022

Metaheuristic algorithms are effectively used in searching some optical solution space. for optical solution. It is basically the type of local search generalization that can provide useful solutions for issues related to optimization. Several benefits are associated with this type of algorithms due to that such algorithms can be better to solve many issues in an effective way. To provide fast and accurate solutions to huge range of complex issues is one main benefit metaheuristic algorithms. Some metaheuristic algorithms are effectively used to classify the problems and BAT Algorithm (BA) is one of them is more popular in use to sort out issues related to optimization of theoretical and realistic. Sometimes BA fails to find global optima and gets stuck in local optima because of the absence of investigation and manipulation. We have improved the BA to boost its local searching ability and diminish the premature problem. An improved equation of search with more necessary information through the search is set for the generation of the solution. Test set of benchmark functions are utilized to verify the proposed method’s performance. The results of simulation showed that proposed methods are best optimal solution as compare to others.
Towards 100 Gbps over 100 km: System Design and Demonstration of E-Band Millimeter Wave Communication
Authors: Zhang Zeyuan , Zou Xianbing , Li Qun , Wei Ning
Published: December 2022

Long-range E-band communication with fiber-equivalent speed is emerging extensively as a critical technology in the next-generation communication. This paper firstly reviews the relevant progress in recent research. A brief survey is presented on high-speed, long-range E-band communication systems and their relevant techniques that are essential to the link design, including antenna, power amplifier (PA), channel, and digital baseband processing. In the second part, we review our recent field trial of a long-range air-to-ground E-band link, which maintains steady transmission from a slow-moving helium balloon to the ground station with a vertical dimension of 20 km. The improvement directions and future research topics are then discussed.
Study on a Flexible Odor-Releasing Device for Olfactory Training
Authors: Peng Huisheng , Yang Cheng , Jian Feitong , Wu Shuo
Published: December 2022

Olfactory training has been shown to be effective in treating olfactory dysfunction. However, there are hardly any devices that can regularly and quantificationally release odors for olfactory training. A new odor-releasing device, which is low-cost, customizable, semi-automatic, and flexible, was developed in this study. The operation of the device can be easily achieved by the examiner, or even by the participant, simply by pressing a few buttons. A controller system with 15 individual relays was employed to master the working logic for the whole process. The device allows the examiner to isolate from the participants using the Bluetooth module in the control board. The odorants and their concentrations stored in the scent bottles can be customized by the specific requirements of different participants. The odors for training are provided by ultrasonic atomizers, which have simple structures, but powerful features. The flow rates of the odors can also be controlled by altering the rotation speed of the fans. Final experiments on practical odor generation further proved the potential of the developed device for olfactory training. More attention should be paid to the improvements of odor generation devices for olfactory training.
Adjusting the Connection Length of Additively Manufactured Electrodes Changes the Electrochemical and Electroanalytical Performance
Authors: Crapnell Robert D. , Garcia-Miranda Ferrari Alejandro , Whittingham Matthew J. , Sigley Evelyn , Hurst Nicholas J. , Keefe Edmund M. , Banks Craig E.
Published: December 2022

Changing the connection length of an additively manufactured electrode (AME) has a significant impact on the electrochemical and electroanalytical response of the system. In the literature, many electrochemical platforms have been produced using additive manufacturing with great variations in how the AME itself is described. It is seen that when measuring the near-ideal outer-sphere redox probe hexaamineruthenium (III) chloride (RuHex), decreasing the AME connection length enhances the heterogeneous electrochemical transfer (HET) rate constant (k0) for the system. At slow scan rates, there is a clear change in the peak-to-peak separation (ΔEp) observed in the RuHex voltammograms, with the ΔEp shifting from 118 ± 5 mV to 291 ± 27 mV for the 10 and 100 mm electrodes, respectively. For the electroanalytical determination of dopamine, no significant difference is noticed at low concentrations between 10- and 100-mm connection length AMEs. However, at concentrations of 1 mM dopamine, the peak oxidation is shifted to significantly higher potentials as the AME connection length is increased, with a shift of 150 mV measured. It is recommended that in future work, all AME dimensions, not just the working electrode head size, is reported along with the resistance measured through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to allow for appropriate comparisons with other reports in the literature. To produce the best additively manufactured electrochemical systems in the future, researchers should endeavor to use the shortest AME connection lengths that are viable for their designs.
Light-FER: A Lightweight Facial Emotion Recognition System on Edge Devices
Authors: Pascual Alexander M. , Valverde Erick C. , Kim Jeong-in , Jeong Jin-Woo , Jung Yuchul , Kim Sang-Ho , Lim Wansu
Published: December 2022

Facial emotion recognition (FER) systems are imperative in recent advanced artificial intelligence (AI) applications to realize better human–computer interactions. Most deep learning-based FER systems have issues with low accuracy and high resource requirements, especially when deployed on edge devices with limited computing resources and memory. To tackle these problems, a lightweight FER system, called Light-FER, is proposed in this paper, which is obtained from the Xception model through model compression. First, pruning is performed during the network training to remove the less important connections within the architecture of Xception. Second, the model is quantized to half-precision format, which could significantly reduce its memory consumption. Third, different deep learning compilers performing several advanced optimization techniques are benchmarked to further accelerate the inference speed of the FER system. Lastly, to experimentally demonstrate the objectives of the proposed system on edge devices, Light-FER is deployed on NVIDIA Jetson Nano.
Formation of regional infrastructure of spatial data on the territory of Chelyabinsk region
Authors:   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Rasskazova N. S.
Published: December 2022

The article outlines the main provisions of work on formation of the regional segment of the spatial data infrastructure of the Russian Federation on the territory of Chelyabinsk region. For this purpose, the author studied the needs of ministries and departments in spatial data, the problems of spatial data infrastructure (SDI) and ways to solve them, and also the main works of the subjects of the Russian Federation on the formation of the regional segment of SDI. The features and the model of the regional SDI were proposed, taking into account the main measures for the creation and development of SDI in Chelyabinsk region.
Ministry regulations on specialization training in veterinary medicine in Türkiye
Authors: KÜÇÜKASLAN Özgül , YERLİKAYA Nigar , BAŞAĞAÇ GÜL Tamay
Published: December 2022

The first practices associated with specialization training in veterinary medicine in Türkiye were initiated in the field of military veterinary medicine in the 1880s. The first civilian veterinarians were sent abroad for specialization training in 1909. In the Republican era, specialization training in civil veterinary medicine was carried out in a planned and programmed system by the seven basic regulations issued by the Ministry of Agriculture from 1942 to the 1980s. In 1982, all graduate studies in the field of health sciences were included in graduate schools of health sciences, meanwhile, the Specialization High School, the main institution that trains specialists for civil veterinary services, was closed, thus specialization education in this field was terminated. In the following years, the legal regulations prepared for specialization training in civil veterinary medicine could not be put into effect, thus specialists could not be trained for about 40 years. In 2018, a new regulation was put into effect for specialization training in civil veterinary medicine. However, despite the end of the three-year transition period, the shortage of specialists in the field still continues, since education has not yet started. On the other hand, some details in the new regulation do not fully coincide with international practices. There is no doubt that specialization training in veterinary medicine in Türkiye should be carried out in line with national requirements; but it should also be of universal standards.
Effects of Artificial Shelters on Survival Rates and Growth Performances of Scalloped Spiny Lobster, Panulirus homarus (Linnaeus, 1758), Reared in Floating-Net Cages
Authors:   Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, West Lombok, West-Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, AMIRI MOCHAMAD , MUSDALIFAH LAILA , AMIN MUHAMAD
Published: December 2022

Cannibalism causes severe losses and has been considered one of the most important challenges in lobster aquaculture. The present study aimed to assess the effects of artificial shelters on the survival rate and growth performances of the scalloped spiny lobster, Panulirus homarus (Linnaeus, 1758). Wild-caught 600 puerulus stage scalloped spiny lobsters (~0.18 g wet-weight and 7.16 cm total length) were randomly allocated into floating cages provided with four different shelters; i) polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ii) nylon net, iii) cement sack and iv) no shelter as a control and cultured for 10 weeks to measure mortality and growth. The result of the experiment done in triplicate indicated that artificial shelters significantly affected scalloped spiny lobsters' survival rate and growth performances. The survival rate of scalloped spiny lobster in the control group observed on week 2 was only 62 %, while the survival rate in all treatments (with shelter) was 76 to 82 %. After 10 weeks culture period, the mean survival rate was only 28 % in control, which was significantly lower than all treatments (53 %, 54 %, and 59 % for nylon net, cement sack, and PVC, respectively). Similarly, the absolute growth and specific growth rate of the spiny lobsters reared with the artificial shelters were significantly better than that of lobsters in the control group. The best growth was obtained from lobster reared with a nylon net, followed by cement sack and PVC pipe. This research finding can be used to select suitable shelters for cultivating spiny lobsters.