bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumour microbiomes and Fusobacterium genomics in Vietnamese colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Tran Hoang N. H. , Thu Trang Nguyen Hoang , Nguyen Phu Huu , Vo Chi Nguyen , Doan Khanh Van , Nguyen Ngoc Minh Chau , Nguyen Ngoc Tuan , Ta Van Ngoc Duc , Vu Khuong An , Hua Thanh Danh , Nguyen To Nguyen Thi , Van Tan Trinh , Pham Duc Trung , Duong Ba Lap , Nguyen Phuc Minh , Hoang Vinh Chuc , Pham Duy Thanh , Thwaites Guy E. , Hall Lindsay J. , Slade Daniel J. , Baker Stephen , Tran Vinh Hung , Chung The Hao
Published: October 2022

Perturbations in the gut microbiome have been associated with colorectal cancer (CRC), with the colonic overabundance of Fusobacterium nucleatum shown as the most consistent marker. Despite its significance in the promotion of CRC, genomic studies of Fusobacterium is limited. We enrolled 43 Vietnamese CRC patients and 25 participants with non-cancerous colorectal polyps to study the colonic microbiomes and genomic diversity of Fusobacterium in this population, using a combination of 16S rRNA gene profiling, anaerobic microbiology, and whole genome analysis. Oral bacteria, including F. nucleatum and Leptotrichia, were significantly more abundant in the tumour microbiomes. We obtained 53 Fusobacterium genomes, representing 26 strains, from the saliva, tumour and non-tumour tissues of six CRC patients. Isolates from the gut belonged to diverse F. nucleatum subspecies (nucleatum, animalis, vincentii, polymorphum) and a potential new subspecies of Fusobacterium periodonticum. The Fusobacterium population within each individual was distinct and in some cases diverse, with minimal intra-clonal variation. Phylogenetic analyses showed that within four individuals, tumour-associated Fusobacterium were clonal to those isolated from non-tumour tissues. Genes encoding major virulence factors (Fap2 and RadD) showed evidence of horizontal gene transfer. Our work provides a framework to understand the genomic diversity of Fusobacterium within the CRC patients, which can be exploited for the development of CRC diagnostic and therapeutic options targeting this oncobacterium.
Scaffold-based bone tissue engineering in microgravity: potential, concerns and implications
Authors: Mochi Federico , Scatena Elisa , Rodriguez Daniel , Ginebra Maria-Pau , Del Gaudio Costantino
Published: October 2022

One of humanity’s greatest challenges is space exploration, which requires an in-depth analysis of the data continuously collected as a necessary input to fill technological gaps and move forward in several research sectors. Focusing on space crew healthcare, a critical issue to be addressed is tissue regeneration in extreme conditions. In general, it represents one of the hottest and most compelling goals of the scientific community and the development of suitable therapeutic strategies for the space environment is an urgent need for the safe planning of future long-term manned space missions. Osteopenia is a commonly diagnosed disease in astronauts due to the physiological adaptation to altered gravity conditions. In order to find specific solutions to bone damage in a reduced gravity environment, bone tissue engineering is gaining a growing interest. With the aim to critically investigate this topic, the here presented review reports and discusses bone tissue engineering scenarios in microgravity, from scaffolding to bioreactors. The literature analysis allowed to underline several key points, such as the need for (i) biomimetic composite scaffolds to better mimic the natural microarchitecture of bone tissue, (ii) uniform simulated microgravity levels for standardized experimental protocols to expose biological materials to the same testing conditions, and (iii) improved access to real microgravity for scientific research projects, supported by the so-called democratization of space.
Controllably grown single-crystal films as flexoelectric nanogenerators for continuous direct current output
Authors: Li Yang , Zhou Qinling , Wu Jiating , Xu Junhua , Shi Weilong , Su Chao , Chen Daifen , Shao Zongping
Published: October 2022

Until now, conventional nanogenerators could only produce electric pulses with relatively low-power densities. Herein, we invent a novel controllable growth technique for two-dimensional (2-D) cuprous oxide (p-Cu2O) single-crystal films, and on this basis, a new concept of 2-D single-crystal film flexoelectric nanogenerators (FENGs) are rationally designed and constructed for the first time, which has the characteristics of long-range order lattice, few grain boundaries and defects. More importantly, the accumulated built-in polarization potential in the bent 2-D p-Cu2O single-crystal film FENGs is in the same orientation as the output electricity, resulting in the first nanogenerator that can output continuous and stable electric signals with high voltage (Voc of 2.8 V), current (Jsc of 11.5 μA·cm−2) and power density (14.4 μW·cm−2), exhibiting great practical application potential for power generation and motion capture. This research breaks new ground and establishes a precedent for high-performance and continuous-output nanogenerators, as well as smart wearable sensors.
Multiorder hydrologic Position for Europe — a Set of Features for Machine Learning and Analysis in Hydrology
Authors: Nölscher Maximilian , Mutz Michael , Broda Stefan
Published: October 2022

The presented dataset EU-MOHP v013.1.1 provides multiscale information on the hydrologic position (MOHP) of a geographic point within its respective river network and catchment as gridded maps. More precisely, it comprises the three measures “divide to stream distance” (DSD) as sum of the distances to the nearest stream and catchment divide, “lateral position” (LP) as a relative measure of the position between the nearest stream and divide and “stream distance” (SD) as the distance to the nearest stream. These three measures are calculated for nine hydrologic orders to reflect different spatial scales from local to continental. Its spatial extent covers major parts of the European Economic Area (EEA39) which also largely coincides with physiographical Europe. Although there are multiple potential use cases, this dataset serves predominantly as valuable static environmental descriptor or predictor variable for hydrogeological and hydrological modelling such as mapping or forecasting tasks using machine learning. The generation of this dataset uses free open source software only and therefore can be transferred to other regions or input datasets.
A laser guide technique: a novel method for accurate acetabular cup alignment in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Kohno Yusuke , Nakamura Tetsuro , Fujii Masanori , Shin Satoshi , Hara Toshihiko
Published: October 2022

For accurate cup alignment without navigation in total hip arthroplasty (THA), we developed a “laser guide technique.” The major purposes of this paper are to introduce the technique and compare its accuracy with a conventional manual technique. As a clinical outcome, the dislocation rate was reviewed. Our laser guide technique, which includes preoperative postural adjustment and intraoperative angular reference, has been detailed in the manuscript. 599 hips in 523 patients who underwent primary THA with piriformis-sparing posterolateral approach in April 2010–March 2016 were reviewed. Patients were divided into three groups: conventional group (135 hips), laser guide group (80 hips), and laser + radiographic alignment guide group (384 hips). Radiographic inclination (RI) and radiographic anteversion (RA) errors were evaluated. The dislocation rate was reviewed in 540 hips in 476 patients who were followed up > 2 years postoperatively. Absolute values of the RI/RA error in the three groups were 5.3° ± 4.0°/6.5° ± 4.5°, 4.0° ± 2.8°/4.9° ± 4.4°, and 3.3° ± 2.6°/3.6° ± 2.8°, respectively, indicating substantially enhanced accuracy with laser and radiographic alignment guide. The dislocation rates were 2.5% (3/119) and 0.2% (1/421) in the conventional and laser groups, respectively. Our novel laser guide technique considerably enhanced cup alignment accuracy, suggesting its potential applicability for THA in the lateral decubitus position.
Infection control for COVID-19 in hospital examination room
Authors: Takada Mamoru , Fukushima Taichi , Ozawa Sho , Matsubara Syuma , Suzuki Takeshi , Fukumoto Ichiro , Hanazawa Toyoyuki , Nagashima Takeshi , Uruma Reiko , Otsuka Masayuki , Tanaka Gaku
Published: October 2022

Healthcare providers are vulnerable to infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) because of their close proximity to patients with coronavirus disease 2019. SARS-CoV-2 is mainly transmitted via direct and indirect contact with respiratory droplets, and its airborne transmission has also been identified. However, evidence for environmental factors is scarce, and evidence-based measures to minimize the risk of infection in clinical settings are insufficient. Using computational fluid dynamics, we simulated exhalation of large and small aerosol particles by patients in an otolaryngology examination room, where medical procedures require the removal of a face mask. The effects of coughing were analyzed, as well as those of humidity as a controllable environmental factor and of a suction device as an effective control method. Our results show that a suction device can minimize aerosol exposure of healthcare workers by efficiently removing both large (11.6–98.2%) and small (39.3–99.9%) aerosol particles. However, for coughing patients, the removal efficiency varies inversely with the particle size, and the humidity notably affects the aerosol behavior, indicating the need for countermeasures against smaller aerosols. Overall, these results highlight the potential and limitation of using a suction device to protect against SARS-CoV-2 and future respiratory infections.
High-gradient magnetic fields and starch metabolism: results from a space experiment
Authors: Hasenstein K. H. , Park M. R. , John S. P. , Ajala C.
Published: October 2022

Directing plant growth in weightlessness requires understanding the processes that establish plant orientation and how to manipulate them. Both gravi- and phototropism determine directional growth and previous experiments showed that high gradient magnetic fields (HGMF) can induce curvature in roots and shoots. Experiments with Brassica rapa verified that that gravitropism-like induction of curvature is possible in space and that the HGMF-responsive organelles are amyloplasts. We assessed the effect of space and HGMF based on 16 genes and compared their transcription with static growth and clinorotation. Amyloplasts size in root tips increased under weightlessness but decreased under clinorotation but not in response to magnetic fields. Amyloplast size changes were correlated with reduced amylase transcription in space samples and enhanced transcription after clinorotation. Mechanostimulation and weightlessness have opposite effects on the size of amyloplasts. The data show that plants perceive weightlessness, and that their metabolism adjusts to microgravity and mechanostimulation. Thus, clinorotation as surrogate for space research may lead to incorrect interpretations.
A reservoir induced earthquake swarm in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
Authors: Herath Pasan , Attanayake Januka , Gahalaut Kalpna
Published: October 2022

An anomalous seismic sequence of five small (MW < 3) felt earthquakes occurred between 29 August 2020 and 05 December 2020 around the Victoria Reservoir in the central highlands of Sri Lanka that clearly exceeded the established national background seismic rate. Using seismic waveform template-matching and a newly developed single-station earthquake location method based on travel-time back-projection, we detected an additional co-located 23 microseismic events, of which 18 occurred within the same period as the felt events. This hitherto undetected seismic swarm defines a seismogenic zone beneath the western flank of the reservoir between 1.5 and 3 km depths. The reservoir-induced peak stresses, resolved on E-W striking faults, predicted from the poroelastic theory that include both drained and undrained crustal responses are ~ 15 kPa in an area overlapping the seismogenic zone, which, together with the physical and spatio-temporal characteristics of the seismic swarm, establish a causal link between reservoir-induced stresses and the earthquake swarm with implications to seismic hazard. This is the first record of induced seismicity in Sri Lanka. The newly developed efficient computational workflows with minimal operational costs described in our study provide a blueprint for monitoring reservoir-induced seismicity in developing countries with severe resource limitations.
Optimization of the process of seed extraction from the Larix decidua Mill. cones including evaluation of seed quantity and quality
Authors: Tulska Ewa , Aniszewska Monika , Zychowicz Witold
Published: October 2022

The objective of this study was to determine the number of stages of cone drying and immersion that yield the maximum number of high quality seeds. Nine variants of the process were conducted; they differed in terms of dwell time in the drying chamber and water immersion time. Each extraction variant consisted of five drying steps (lasting 10, 8 or 6 h) and four immersion steps (5, 10 or 15 min). Each drying step was followed by cone shaking in a purpose-made laboratory drum. The process variants were evaluated and compared in terms of cone moisture content as well as the dynamics of seed yield and the quality of seeds obtained in the various steps. The seed yield coefficient, α, and the cone mass yield coefficient, β, were calculated. The studied process of seed extraction can be described using the Lewis empirical model for the second stage of drying with the b coefficient ranging from 0.34 to 0.60. Relatively higher initial and final moisture content was found for cones immersed for 15 min (more than 0.45 kgwater·kgd.w.−1), while the lowest moisture content was found for those immersed for 5 min (less than 0.4 kgwater·kgd.w.−1). The highest seed yield at the first and second steps was obtained in the 8 h_10 min variant (53% and 32%, respectively). In all five-step variants, the mean cone yield amounted to 65% of total seeds in the cones; seeds obtained from all variants were classified in quality class I. The procedure recommended for commercial seed extraction facilities consists of three 8 h drying steps and two 10 min immersion steps, with cone shaking in a drum to maximize seed yield. A shorter cone extraction process maintaining an acceptable level of seed extraction may reduce energy consumption by nearly 50%.
Comparison of two different antiseptics regarding intracutaneous microbial load after preoperative skin cleansing in total knee and hip arthroplasties
Authors: Böhle Sabrina , Vogel Anna-Maria , Matziolis Georg , Strube Patrick , Rohe Sebastian , Brodt Steffen , Mastrocola Mario , Eijer Henk , Rödel Jürgen , Lindemann Chris
Published: October 2022

Periprosthetic infections (PPIs) are a serious concern in total knee and hip arthroplasty, and they have an increasing incidence. To prevent PPI, preoperative skin disinfection, as a key element of antisepsis, represents an important part of infection prevention. However, no specific antiseptic agent is endorsed by the relevant guidelines. The purpose of this retrospective, not randomized study was to investigate the difference in the residual bacteria load between an approved antiseptic with an alcohol-based solution with additional benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and an alcohol-based solution with additional octenidine dihydrochloride (OCT) at two different time periods. In 200 consecutive patients with total knee or hip arthroplasty, skin samples from the surgical sites were collected after skin disinfection with BAC (100 g solution contain: propan-2-ol 63.0 g, benzalkonium chloride 0.025 g) or OCT (100 g solution contain: octenidine dihydrochloride 0.1 g, propan-1-ol, 30.0 g, propan-2-ol 45.0 g) (100 patients per group). Following the separation of cutis and subcutis and its processing, culture was performed on different agar plates in aerobic and anaerobic environments. In the case of bacteria detection, the microbial identification was determined by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and the number of contaminated samples was compared between the groups. Additionally, multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the effect of the type of disinfectant, BMI, age, sex, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, skin disorders, smoking status, and localization of skin samples on positive bacteria detection. A total of 34 samples were positive for bacteria in the BAC group, while only 17 samples were positive in the OCT group (p = 0.005). Disinfectant type was the only significant parameter in the multiple regression analysis (p = 0.006). A significantly higher contamination rate of the subcutis was shown in the BAC group compared to the OCT group (19 vs. 9, p = 0,003). After the change from BAC to OCT in preoperative skin cleansing in the hip and knee areas, the number of positive cultures decreased by 50%, which might have been caused by a higher microbicidal activity of OCT. Therefore, the use of OCT in preoperative cleansing may reduce the risk of PPI in hip and knee surgery. Randomized controlled trials are required to confirm the effect and to evaluate if it reduces the risk of PPI.
Exploration of oxygen-mediated disinfection of medical devices reveals a high sensitivity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to elevated oxygen levels
Authors: Cavallo Francis M. , Kommers Richard , Friedrich Alexander W. , Glasner Corinna , van Dijl Jan Maarten
Published: October 2022

The microbiological safety of medical devices is of paramount importance for patients and manufacturers alike. However, during usage medical devices will inevitably become contaminated with microorganisms, including opportunistic pathogens. This is a particular problem if these devices come in contact with body sites that carry high bacterial loads, such as the oral cavity. In the present study, we investigated whether high oxygen concentrations can be applied to disinfect surfaces contaminated with different Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. We show that some opportunistic pathogens, exemplified by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are particularly sensitive to oxygen concentrations above the atmospheric oxygen concentration of 21%. Our observations also show that high oxygen concentrations can be applied to reduce the load of P. aeruginosa on nebulizers that are used by cystic fibrosis patients, who are particularly susceptible to colonization and infection by this bacterium. We conclude that the efficacy of oxygen-mediated disinfection depends on the bacterial species, duration of oxygen exposure and the oxygen concentration. We consider these observations relevant, because gas mixtures with high oxygen content can be readily applied for microbial decontamination. However, the main challenge for oxygen-based disinfection approaches resides in a potentially incomplete elimination of microbial contaminants, which makes combined usage with other disinfectants like ethanol or hydrogen peroxide recommendable.
Patient's perspective in clinical practice to assess and predict disability in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gil-Perotin S. , Bernad L. , Reddam S. , Ferrer-Pardo C. , Navarro-Quevedo S. , Solís-Tarazona L.
Published: October 2022

The information provided by a person with multiple sclerosis (MS) may anticipate changes in the course of the disease. To explore the role of a set of standardized patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in predicting disability progression in MS an observational study was conducted in two cohorts of 30 and 86 persons with progressive MS (pwPMS) and relapsing MS (pwRMS), respectively. The associations between baseline clinical, biochemical variables and results on MS quality of life scale (MusiQol), Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) and Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) were analyzed. The progression of disability after 2 years of follow-up in pwRMS was investigated. We show that PRO differentiated pwRMS and pwPMS cohorts with lower MusiQoL and higher MFIS and BDI-II scores in the latter. Only MFIS was correlated with disability in pwRMS and high scores in the physical MFIS domain associated with worse performance in 9HPT, and a trend in T25FW and SDMT. Instead, the cognitive MFIS domain was correlated with CHI3L1 in cerebrospinal fluid, a biomarker of progression. At the end of the study, global MFIS and BDI-II were found to be independent risk factors for disability independent of relapse. Although all PRO measures explored were altered in pwPMS, baseline MFIS discriminated current and prospective disability in pwRMS, identifying patients at risk of progression.
Exposure to low levels of photocatalytic TiO2 nanoparticles enhances seed germination and seedling growth of amaranth and cruciferous vegetables
Authors: Li Chi-Cheng , Jhou Sian-Ming , Li Yi-Chen , Ciou Jhih-Wei , Lin You-Yen , Hung Shih-Che , Chang Jen-Hsiang , Chang Jen-Che , Sun Der-Shan , Chou Ming-Lun , Chang Hsin-Hou
Published: October 2022

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is one of the most common compounds on Earth, and it is used in natural forms or engineered bulks or nanoparticles (NPs) with increasing rates. However, the effect of TiO2 NPs on plants remains controversial. Previous studies demonstrated that TiO2 NPs are toxic to plants, because the photocatalytic property of TiO2 produces biohazardous reactive oxygen species. In contrast, another line of evidence suggested that TiO2 NPs are beneficial to plant growth. To verify this argument, in this study, we used seed germination of amaranth and cruciferous vegetables as a model system. Intriguingly, our data suggested that the controversy was due to the dosage effect. The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 NPs positively affected seed germination and growth through gibberellins in a plant-tolerable range (0.1 and 0.2 mg/cm2), whereas overdosing (1 mg/cm2) induced tissue damage. Given that plants are the foundations of the ecosystem; these findings are useful for agricultural application, sustainable development and maintenance of healthy environments.
Small bowel cleanliness in capsule endoscopy: a case–control study using validated artificial intelligence algorithm
Authors: Oh Dong Jun , Hwang Youngbae , Nam Ji Hyung , Lim Yun Jeong
Published: October 2022

Small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) may need to be performed immediately after colonoscopy without additional bowel preparation if active small bowel diseases are suspected. However, it is unclear whether the small bowel cleanliness is adequately maintained even after SBCE is performed immediately after colonoscopy. We compared the small bowel cleanliness scores of the study group (SBCE immediately after colonoscopy) and control group (SBCE alone) using a validated artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm (cut-off score > 3.25 for adequate). Cases of SBCE in which polyethylene glycol was used were included retrospectively. Among 85 enrolled cases, 50 cases (58.8%) were the study group. The mean time from the last dose of purgative administration to SBCE was 6.86 ± 0.94 h in the study group and 3.00 ± 0.18 h in the control group. Seventy-five cases (88.2%) were adequate small bowel cleanliness, which was not different between the two groups. The mean small bowel cleanliness score for the study group was 3.970 ± 0.603, and for the control group was 3.937 ± 0.428. In the study group, better colon preparation resulted in a higher small bowel cleanliness score (p = 0.015). Small bowel cleanliness was also adequately maintained in SBCE immediately after colonoscopy. There was no difference between the time and volume of purgative administration and small bowel cleanliness.
Evaluation of calibration approaches for quantitative analysis of sludge by laser induced breakdown spectrometry
Authors: Thiengo Fernanda Ferreira , de Carvalho Elias Aline , Luz Maciel Santos , Intima Danielle Polidório , Gaubeur Ivanise , Naozuka Juliana , Piovezani Rocha Fábio Rodrigo , Nomura Cassiana Seimi
Published: October 2022

Sludge disposal is a serious environmental issue and its use in agriculture depends on chemical analysis.
Visible light, temperature, and electric field-driven rotation of diffraction gratings enabled by an axially chiral molecular switch
Authors: Zhang Xinfang , Hassan Fathy , Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Wang Hao , Zhou Ziyuan , Li Quan
Published: October 2022

A visible light-driven chiral molecular switch shows reversibletrans–cisphotoisomerization, good compatibility, and high helical twisting power in achiral liquid crystals. Multi-stimuli responsive rotatable in-plane beam steering and chromatic dispersion are accomplished.
NOAEL cancer therapy: a tumor targetable docetaxel–inorganic polymer nanohybrid prevents drug-induced neutropenia
Authors: Jin Geun-Woo , Choi Goeun , Piao Huiyan , Rejinold N. Sanoj , Asahina Shunsuke , Choi Soo-Jin , Lee Hwa Jeong , Choy Jin-Ho
Published: October 2022

PTX is expected to be able to replace existing chemotherapy as it is free from toxicity, the biggest drawback of existing chemotherapy.
Real‐time dwell scheduling algorithm for phased array radar based on a backtracking strategy
Authors: Li Zhongzhu , Cheng Ting , Heng Siyu
Published: October 2022

The effective dwell scheduling algorithm must be studied to make full use of the radar system's limited resources. In this study, a real‐time dwell scheduling in phased array radar is investigated, where the optimisation problem model that takes the importance, urgency and desired execution time criteria into consideration is built. A real‐time dwell scheduling algorithm for phased array radar based on a backtracking strategy is proposed to solve this problem. Based on the scheduled task pointed by the time pointer, when it is not interleaved with the previously scheduled tasks, two previously interleaved blocks are backtracked, and the actual execution time of tasks in these two blocks are adjusted. In order to guarantee real‐time scheduling, the concept of the virtual dwell task is introduced to reduce the dimension of the original execution time optimisation problem first, then it is converted into two convex optimisation problems and their analytical solutions are deduced. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can realise real‐time dwell scheduling, and it has the lowest Task Drop Ratio, the highest Hit Value Ratio, Time Utilisation Ratio and low Average Time Shifting Ration compared with conventional and up‐to‐date algorithms.
Rossiter-McLaughlin detection of the 9-month period transiting exoplanet HIP41378 d
Authors: Grouffal S. , Santerne A. , Bourrier V. , Dumusque X. , Triaud A. H. M. J. , Malavolta L. , Kunovac V. , Armstrong D. J. , Attia M. , Barros S. C. C. , Boisse I. , Deleuil M. , Demangeon O. D. S. , Dressing C. D. , Figueira P. , Lillo-Box J. , Mortier A. , Nardiello D. , Santos N. C. , Sousa S. G.
Published: October 2022

The Rossiter-McLaughlin (RM) effect is a method that allows us to measure the orbital obliquity of planets, which is an important constraint that has been used to understand the formation and migration mechanisms of planets, especially for hot Jupiters. In this paper, we present the RM observation of the Neptune-sized long-period transiting planet HIP41378 d. Those observations were obtained using the HARPS-N/TNG and ESPRESSO/ESO-VLT spectrographs over two transit events in 2019 and 2022. The analysis of the data with both the classical RM and the RM Revolutions methods allows us to confirm that the orbital period of this planet is ~278 days and that the planet is on a prograde orbit with an obliquity of λ = 57.1−17.9+26.1°, a value which is consistent between both methods. HIP41378 d is the longest period planet for which the obliquity has been measured so far. We do not detect transit timing variations with a precision of 30 and 100 minutes for the 2019 and 2022 transits, respectively. This result also illustrates that the RM effect provides a solution to follow up on the transit of small and long-period planets such as those that will be detected by ESA's forthcoming PLATO mission.
A class of new search directions for full-NT step feasible interior point method in semidefinite optimization
Authors: Guerra Loubna
Published: October 2022

In this paper, based on Darvay et al.’s strategy for linear optimization (LO) (Z. Darvay and P.R. Takács, Optim. Lett. 12 (2018) 1099–1116.), we extend Kheirfam et al.’s feasible primal-dual path-following interior point algorithm for LO (B. Kheirfam and A. Nasrollahi, Asian-Eur. J. Math. 1 (2020) 2050014.) to semidefinite optimization (SDO) problems in order to define a class of new search directions. The algorithm uses only full Nesterov-Todd (NT) step at each iteration to find an ε-approximated solution to SDO. Polynomial complexity of the proposed algorithm is established which is as good as the LO analogue. Finally, we present some numerical results to prove the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection using an ultrathin endoscope for superficial pharyngeal cancer: a prospective feasibility study (with video)
Authors: Muramoto Takashi , Ohata Ken , Sakai Eiji , Sawada Rikimaru , Takeuchi Nao , Inamoto Rin , Kurebayashi Marie , Takayanagi Syunya , Kimoto Yoshiaki , Ishii Rindo , Nohara Mako , Liu Bo , Ono Kohei , Negishi Ryoju , Minato Yohei , Chiba Hideyuki , Matsuhashi Nobuyuki
Published: October 2022

Background and study aims Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of pharyngeal cancers with conventional endoscopes often is difficult, not only because of the narrow working space, but also because endoscope maneuverability in the pharynx is poor due to interference from the endotracheal tube and/or hyoid bone. However, we hypothesized that those problems could possibly be resolved by use of an ultrathin endoscope for ESD of superficial pharyngeal cancer. The aim of this prospective interventional study was to investigate the feasibility of ESD for superficial pharyngeal cancer using an ultrathin endoscope.

Patients and methods This feasibility study was conducted at NTT Medical Center Tokyo between June 2020 and September 2021, and data from a total of 20 consecutively superficial pharyngeal cancers were analyzed. The primary outcome measure was the R0 resection rate. The ESD completion rate, en bloc resection rate, procedure time, and frequency of intraoperative and postoperative adverse events (AEs) were also evaluated as secondary outcome measures.

Results Data from 16 patients with 20 lesions were included in the analysis. All of the lesions were successfully resected by ultrathin endoscope ESD, and the en bloc and R0 resection rates were 100 % and 85.0 % (17/20), respectively; the procedure time was 37.8 ± 28.2 minutes. No intraoperative or postoperative AEs were encountered in any cases.

Conclusions ESD using an ultrathin endoscope is feasible for superficial pharyngeal cancers and has potential to be a safe and effective treatment option for these cancers.
Agreement of the Newly Developed Moyers' Equations and Moyers' Tables
Authors: Thiradilok Sasipa , Witayabusarakhum Praeopailin , Manopatanakul Somchai , Ho Christopher
Published: October 2022

Objective This study aimed to develop the Moyers' prediction equation to be used with tooth widths predicting app on smartphone.

Materials and Methods Four equations were developed separately for sex and dental arches. Internal validation with Moyers' table was finished. External validation on 37 subjects with agreement test of both Moyers' prediction equations and Moyers' prediction tables was performed.

Statistical Analysis A general linear model procedure was used to create four prediction equations. Internal validation was evaluated using the coefficient of determination. External validation was performed using Bland and Altman (BA) test.

Results Four equations were developed for OrthoAnalysis app on smartphone. The overall coefficient of determination of all equations and prediction table was 0.998 (p < 0.05) indicating good agreement of the two methods. The agreement test on the 37 subjects was that the BA test revealed the BA limits of agreement between the residuals of two predictions was −0.001 mm and ranged from -0.143 to 0.140 mm with almost all plots lying inside this difference interval.

Conclusions In summary, four novel estimation equations were developed and showed very low difference to the well accepted original Moyers' prediction tables. Therefore, the equations used in the orthodontic app for predicting unerupted tooth width were verified and valid for clinical use.
Imaging of Lung Disease Associated with Connective Tissue Disease
Authors: Bartlett Emily C. , Renzoni Elizabeth A. , Sivarasan Nishanth , Desai Sujal R.
Published: October 2022

There is a well-known association between the connective tissue disorders (CTDs) and lung disease. In addition to interstitial lung disease, the CTDs may affect the air spaces and pulmonary vasculature. Imaging tests are important not only in diagnosis but also in management of these complex disorders. In the present review, key aspects of the imaging of CTD-reated diseases are discussed.
“Stocking Pattern Metabolic Captivity” of Legs on 18F-FDG PET-CT in Necrotizing Fasciitis: Potential Complimentary Role in Differential Diagnosis and Assessment of Disease Extent in a Life-Threatening Condition
Authors: Sonavane Sunita Nitin , Basu Sandip
Published: October 2022

A rare and fatal life-threatening case of necrotizing fasciitis (initially presenting with skin-deep superficial lesions and clinical suspicion of paraneoplastic syndrome) is described, who was finally diagnosed with the help of fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET)/computed tomography (CT) as more extensive infectious process. A 36-year-old male presented with bilaterally symmetrical cutaneous lesions involving lower limbs that rapidly progressed to ulcerative lesions and pancytopenia. In view of suspicion of paraneoplastic manifestation, the patient underwent 18F-FDG-PET/CT to rule out any underlying malignancy. The FDG-PET/CT findings confirmed hypermetabolism circumferentially along the fasciae of bilateral lower extremities while sparing muscles and subcutaneous fat from below the knee till toe with diffused hypermetabolic marrow, and no evidence of focal disease suggesting malignancy. Biopsy turned out to be superficial necrolytic fasciitis. The patient's condition deteriorated and, 20 days following the scan, the patient succumbed secondary to severe pancytopenia and hypotension. The case raises the importance of high degree of suspicion and prompt diagnosis of this condition, where FDG-PET/CT imaging can play a valuable complimentary role. Such awareness could be lifesaving due to early optimal treatment in the disease course.
A Case of Suspected Radiation-Induced Meningioma That Developed 36 Years after Radiotherapy for a Suprasellar Tumor
Authors: Onoda Keisuke , Takaya Yoshinori , Sashida Ryohei , Fujiwara Ren , Wakamiya Tomihiro , Michiwaki Yuhei , Tanaka Tatsuya , Shimoji Kazuaki , Suehiro Eiichi , Yamane Fumitaka , Kawashima Masatou , Matsuno Akira
Published: October 2022

Recently, the improvements in the prognosis of childhood brain tumors have made it necessary to consider the risk of radiation-induced brain tumor development in long-term survivors. In this report, we describe a case of radiation-induced meningioma (RIM) treated surgically 36 years after radiotherapy. A 46-year-old woman, who underwent craniotomy for suprasellar germ cell tumor at 10 years of age with additional postoperative radiotherapy, was admitted to the emergency room with consciousness disturbance and right hemiplegia. One year earlier, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a 1-cm diameter tumor in the left middle cranial fossa. This MRI showed an enlarged brain tumor in same lesion with clearly enhanced by gadolinium. A RIM located on a left sphenoid ridge with a fast growth rate was diagnosed, and the gross total removal was achieved by a left frontotemporal craniotomy. Histological diagnosis of atypical meningioma (World Health Organization grade II) was made. RIMs are frequently atypical, anaplastic meningiomas that have already been treated with radiotherapy, making additional postoperative radiotherapy difficult; the removal rate must be increased to achieve a good prognosis. In the case of long-term survivors after childhood radiotherapy, a strict follow-up with the occurrence of RIM in mind is necessary.
Posterior Fossa Intra-Axial Lesion: There Are Pathologies Beyond Metastases
Authors: Fotakopoulos George , Brotis Alexandros G. , Paterakis Konstantinos , Kapsalaki Eftychia , Fountas Kostas N.
Published: October 2022

Cerebellar metastases represent the most common lesion requiring surgical treatment in the daily neurosurgical praxis. We report a rare case with Lhermitte–Duclos disease presenting to the neurosurgical outpatient department and describe our diagnostic and treatment challenges. A 57-year-old man presented with transient cerebellar manifestations, including walking difficulties, dizziness, and a persistent occipital headache. The magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a high-intensity lesion in the right cerebellar hemisphere on T2-weighted images. We initially considered surgery to establish a histopathological diagnosis. However, the magnetic resonance spectroscopy was compatible with a dysplastic gangliocytoma of the cerebellum. Therefore, we preferred a more conservative approach. Posterior fossa contrast-enhancing lesions are much more than metastases. The role of advanced magnetic resonance in avoiding unnecessary surgical interventions is priceless.
Hemisensory Loss after Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion
Authors: Algethami Rafaa , Moshref Rana H. , Sabbagh Abdulrahman J.
Published: October 2022

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension includes ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) insertion, with a reported complication of shunt revision in 25% of the cases 1 year after insertion. We report a case of a 28-year-old female with pituitary adenoma who developed sensory loss after VPS placement that could be explained by disruption in thalamic pathways. A lesson learned from this case is that although VPS is a simple procedure, complications can occur. Modalities can be used to detect the complications, and further revisions might be needed.
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Transaminase (GABA-T) Deficiency in a Consanguineous Saudi Family: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kentab Amal Y.
Published: October 2022

Gamma-aminobutyric acid transaminase (GABA-T) deficiency is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the 4-aminobutyrate aminotransferase (ABAT) gene, which encodes an enzyme involved in GABA catabolism. It is characterized by severe psychomotor retardation, early-onset epileptic encephalopathy, intractable seizures, hypotonia, hyperreflexia, movement disorder, hypersomnolence, and early childhood mortality. It is associated with elevated free GABA in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), GABA-T deficiency in cultured lymphoblasts, hypomyelination on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and elevated GABA level in the basal ganglia on proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Only 14 cases have been published in the literature. A rare case of infantile epileptic encephalopathy caused by GABA-T deficiency resulting from a previously unreported homozygous missense mutation in the ABAT gene is described. Our findings add to the phenotypic, neuroradiological, and genetic spectrum of ABAT mutations.
Type III Sturge Weber Syndrome, An Uncommon Cause of Status Epilepticus
Authors: Coronado-Lopez Juan Pablo , Coronado Juan Felipe , Gomez-Urrego Jose Fernando , Londono-Chavez Richard
Published: October 2022

Introduction Sturge Weber syndrome (SWS) is a rare neurocutaneous condition due to the mutation of the GNAQ gen. This condition is characterized by skin, eye, and brain compromise, but the type III only affects the brain, making it a challenging condition to diagnose.

Clinical Case A Hispanic 4 year-old female, with a history of complex febrile seizure in her medical records, presented to the emergency room in status epilepticus after 24 hours of upper respiratory symptoms. After a neurological and radiologic evaluation, SWS III was diagnosed, which led to a pharmacological adjustment for achieving control of the seizures, with a great clinical evolution.

Discussion The pathophysiology, diagnostics, and proper management of this disease are discussed.

Conclusion SWS is a rare neurocutaneous disease, usually diagnosed in patients with pathognomonic features, however it is important to know that type III SWS exists and represents a challenging diagnosis, leading to a time-race for starting proper management, considering that the outcome includes a better life-quality, a higher cognitive result, and reduced morbimortality.
Linear analysis of magnetohydrodynamic Richtmyer–Meshkov instability in cylindrical geometry for double interfaces in the presence of an azimuthal magnetic field
Authors: Bakhsh A.
Published: October 2022

Richtmyer–Meshkov instability (RMI) occurs when a shock wave impulsively accelerates a perturbed density interface between different fluids. The present work investigates the suppression of RMI of double interfaces in terms of linear analysis in cylindrical geometry. An exponential increase/decrease in a growth rate is related to the Rayleigh–Taylor instability that occurs without a magnetic field as the lighter fluid penetrates the heavier one. The research program of inertial confinement fusion is one of the advanced applications where fluid mixing is the main mechanize of producing energy. The investigations represent the effects of different Atwood numbers or magnetic strengths on the suppression of the instabilities. Three different cases are considered with the hydrodynamics and magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). In the MHD case, the instability's growth rate reduces proportion to the Atwood ratios or the strength of the magnetic field. Two waves are interfering and running parallel and anti-parallel to the interfaces and transport the generated vorticity at the interfaces, causing the perturbed interfaces' growth rate to oscillate in time, which is the essential suppression mechanism.
Physicians’ and advanced practice providers’ perceptions of the impact of embedded clinical pharmacists on the work environment in ambulatory care clinics
Authors: Elliott Amber N , Buzzard Lyndsey N , Villa Kristin R , Gadbois Natalie R
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Clinical pharmacists are recognized as valuable team members in primary care clinics due to the variety of patient care services they provide. This study examined nonpharmacist healthcare providers’ perceptions of how embedded clinical pharmacists impact the work environment in ambulatory care clinics.

This was an exploratory mixed methods study consisting of semistructured interviews and a subsequent survey. Participants included attending and resident physicians, and advanced practice providers (APPs) practicing in clinics with an embedded clinical pharmacist. Coded interview transcripts were analyzed to identify themes that were used to develop a survey. Interview participants were not asked to complete the survey. Survey responses were analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics. Subgroup analysis assessed for differences in responses based on provider type, gender, clinical practice area, years of practice, and pharmacy services utilization. Fourteen physicians and APPs participated in the semistructured interviews, and 43 other providers completed the survey. In the interviews, participants stated the clinical pharmacist contributed positively in terms of work environment, workload, work-related stress, and burnout. The major themes identified were sharing patient care responsibilities, saving provider time, and being a knowledgeable resource. Survey responses were consistent with interview statements; however, the positive impact differed between nonusers and moderate to high utilizers of clinical pharmacy services. The main barrier to collaborating with clinical pharmacists was their limited availability.

Conclusion

Embedded clinical pharmacists positively impact the work environment in ambulatory care clinics by reducing provider workload, work-related stress, and burnout. Participants also noted clinical pharmacists are a trusted resource for patient care and drug information questions.
Self-access Strategy Instruction for Academic Writing Vocabulary: What Learners Actually Do
Authors: Wang Isobel Kai-Hui , Cohen Andrew D
Published: October 2022

This paper describes a close-up investigation of four advanced language learners’ engagement with strategy instruction (SI) materials specially designed to enhance efforts to fine-tune comprehension and production of academic vocabulary. The learners first completed a measure of learning style, and then provided introspective and retrospective verbal report data and log entries during and after each interactive session with the SI materials over an eight-week period. The results showed that the learners’ engagement in these sessions heightened their awareness of strategies for fine-tuning their comprehension and production of vocabulary. Issues also arose during their efforts at vocabulary fine-tuning—such as their doubting the results, their experiencing fatigue, and their perceived failure to strategize effectively. The study provided a look at the complex interplay of variables when the learners were attempting to extract insights from the SI materials. In particular, the data illustrated how style preferences related to the selection of strategies in academic writing. The implications for individualized approaches to the implementation of SI and for teachers’ support of L2 learners’ strategic performance are discussed.
Core promoter in TNBC is highly mutated with rich ethnic signature
Authors: Huang Teng , Li Jiaheng , Zhao Heng , Ngamphiw Chumpol , Tongsima Sissades , Kantaputra Piranit , Kittitharaphan Wiranpat , Wang San Ming
Published: October 2022

The core promoter plays an essential role in regulating transcription initiation by controlling the interaction between transcriptional factors and sequence motifs in the core promoter. Although mutation in core promoter sequences is expected to cause abnormal gene expression leading to pathogenic consequences, limited supporting evidence showed the involvement of core promoter mutation in diseases. Our previous study showed that the core promoter is highly polymorphic in worldwide human ethnic populations in reflecting human history and adaptation. Our recent characterization of the core promoter in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a subtype of breast cancer, in a Chinese TNBC cohort revealed the wide presence of core promoter mutation in TNBC. In the current study, we analyzed the core promoter in a Thai TNBC cohort. We also observed rich core promoter mutation in the Thai TNBC patients. We compared the core promoter mutations between Chinese and Thai TNBC cohorts. We observed substantial differences of core promoter mutation in TNBC between the two cohorts, as reflected by the mutation spectrum, mutation-effected gene and functional category, and altered gene expression. Our study confirmed that the core promoter in TNBC is highly mutable, and is highly ethnic-specific.