bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultraviolet-Visible-Near Infrared Broadband Photodetector Based on Electronspun Disorder ZnO Nanowires/Ge Quantum Dots Hybrid Structure
Authors: You Jie , Zhang Yichi , Yang Maolong , Wang Bo , Hu Huiyong , Wang Zimu , Li Jinze , Sun Hao , Wang Liming
Published: January 2022

Ultraviolet-visible-near infrared broadband photodetectors have significant prospects in many fields such as image sensing, communication, chemical sensing, and day and nighttime surveillance. Hybrid one-dimensional (1D) and zero-dimensional (0D) materials are attractive for broadband-responsive photodetectors since its unique charges transfer characteristics and facile fabrication processes. Herein, a Si/ZnO nanowires/Ge quantum dots photodetector has been constructed via processes that combined electrospinning and spin-coating methods. A broadband response behavior from ultraviolet to near-infrared (from 250 to 1550 nm) is observed. The responsivity of the hybrid structure increases around three times from 550 to 1100 nm compared with the pure Si photodetector. Moreover, when the photodetector is illuminated by a light source exceeding 1100 nm, such as 1310 and 1550 nm, there is also a significant photoresponse. Additionally, the ZnO NWs/Ge quantum dots heterostructure is expected to be used in flexible substrates, which benefits from electrospinning and spin-coating processes. The strategy that combines 1D ZnO NWs and 0D solution-processed Ge QDs nanostructures may open a new avenue for flexible and broadband photodetector.
Effect of B2O3 on the Radiation Shielding Performance of Telluride Lead Glass System
Authors: Yin Shiyu , Wang Hao , Wang Shifeng , Zhang Jing , Zhu Yuanzhi
Published: January 2022

This paper studies the role of B2O3 in the radiation shielding properties of (100-x)(60TeO2-40PbO)-xB2O3 glass systems where x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 mol%. Through the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) tests of the glass, the structure of the glass was studied. Physical radiation sources (57Co, 60Co, 137Cs, 133Ba, and 241Am) and WinXCOM software were used to experimentally and theoretically calculate the radiation properties of the glass, respectively. The gamma shielding ability of the glass was evaluated using its mass decay coefficient (μm), half-value layer (HVL), mean free path (MFP) and effective atomic number (Zeff). The neutron shielding ability of the glass was evaluated by calculating the fast neutron removal cross-section (RCS) value. The glass’s gamma and neutron shielding properties were compared to various ordinary concrete and other tellurite glasses. The measured mass decay coefficients agree well with the theoretical values obtained using WinXCOM software. Low HVL, MFP, and high μm, Zeff, and RCS values indicate that this series of glass materials have good shielding properties. According to the obtained results, among the glass samples doped with B2O3, the TPB-1 glass sample showed the best radiation shielding performance.
Antibacterial Activity of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles against ESKAPE Pathogens
Authors: Dar Mushtaq , Gul Rukhsana , Karuppiah Ponmurugan , Al-Dhabi Naif , Alfadda Assim
Published: January 2022

We studied the antimicrobial characteristics of cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles synthesized by hydrothermal technique. The versatile characterization techniques were employed to study the CeO2 nanoparticle structural and optical properties. These techniques included field emission scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. The X-ray diffraction and Raman studies validated the cubic structure of the synthesized CeO2 nanoparticles with average diameters ~3–5 nm. The antibacterial activities and minimal inhibition concentrations (MICs) of CeO2 nanoparticles were tested against ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter sp.). Our data revealed that CeO2 nanoparticles at a concentration of 50 µg/mL generated a maximum inhibition zone against all tested pathogens. However, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae exhibited the higher sensitivity, while E. cloacae, E. faecium, and A. baumannii were the least sensitive to CeO2 nanoparticles. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that CeO2 nanoparticles possess an effective antibacterial activity against ESKAPE pathogens and may be used as a potential bionanomaterial for in vivo therapeutic applications.
Flexible Metamaterial Absorber with Tailored Bandwidth and High Absorption Performance
Authors: Zheng Haiyu , Chen Liangyao , Lee Young-Pak
Published: January 2022

Different from previous works which have focused on broadening the bandwidth, we propose an electromagnetic absorber with a medium and tailored bandwidth absorption, which avoids the unnecessary absorption caused by the too-wide bandwidth. Nevertheless, absorption is extremely high to be more than 99% and 97% for the normal and even oblique (45°) incidence, respectively, in a tailored frequency range of 5.8 ± 0.25 GHz even for both TE and TM polarization. This means the absorber is insensitive to the polarization of incident electromagnetic wave. Furthermore, it is flexible, since the main portion of sample is soft and flexible polyimide. The same properties are also realized in a range of 10 ± 0.5 GHz through adjusting the parameters of structure. The center frequencies of 5.8 and 10 GHz are very useful in our daily life, and the cost of absorber is relative low. Therefore, we believe the absorber can be used in many practical fields such as vehicle high-pass applications and radars.
Multivariate Regression Analysis of the NiTi Alloys’ Surface Corrosion Depending on the Measured Oxygen Value: Tests in Three Different Marine Environments
Authors: Kovač Nataša , Ivošević Špiro , Vastag Gyöngyi , Majerič Peter , Rudolf Rebeka
Published: January 2022

Actual corrosion experiments are based mainly on methodologies that measure the corrosion rate of alloys as a function of the parameters that characterise different external influences and the specific environment in which the alloys are placed. Corrosive processes are viewed as complex stochastic processes described by linear and nonlinear probabilistic models. In contrast to these common ways of analysing corrosive processes, this paper investigates the corrosion process in terms of chemical changes in the alloys’ surface compositions. For this purpose, two NiTi Shape Memory Alloys obtained by different technological production processes were tested, followed by an analysis of the empirical data obtained in a real experiment that included monitoring the corrosion behaviour. Both the analysed alloys were exposed to three different types of marine environment: air, tide, and sea. Data were collected continuously after 6, 12 and 18 months of samples’ exposure to the marine environmental influences. A total of six empirical databases were formed, one for each of the observed NiTi alloys in each of the three observed environments. The empirical databases systematised the data related to the measurements of the surface chemical composition obtained using Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) and Focused Ion Beam (FIB) analyses. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the correlation between the corrosion depth and the percentage of oxygen in the sample surfaces as well as to determine the similarities and differences in the corrosive behaviour of the two observed alloys in different marine environments.
Rationale for Extended Adjuvant Letrozole after Five Years of Tamoxifen in Postmenopausal Oestrogen Receptor–Positive Women with Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: McArthur H. L. , Kennecke H. F.
Published: January 2022

Hormonal therapy has been an integral component of the adjuvant strategy for women with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer for decades [...]
Lung Cancer Trends. Part 2: Beyond North America
Authors: Tai P. , Yu E.
Published: January 2022

Estimation of the burden of cancer in terms of incidence [...]
Integrative Oncology for Comprehensive Cancer Centres: Definitions, Scope, and Policy
Authors: Sagar Stephen , Cassileth B.
Published: January 2022

Integrative oncology combines the discipline of modern science with the wisdom of traditional healing [...]
Cancer Stem Cells Revisited
Authors: Pipes Brian , Ablin Richard
Published: January 2022

Stem cell research is currently at the frontier of medical science [...]
Cervical Cancer Prevention and High-Risk HPV Self-Sampling Awareness and Acceptability among Women Living with HIV: A Qualitative Investigation from the Patients’ and Providers’ Perspectives
Authors: Le Daisy , Coriolan Ciceron Annie , Jeon Min Jeong , Gonzalez Laura Isabel , Jordan Jeanne A. , Bordon Jose , Long Beverly
Published: January 2022

Routine cervical cancer screening is important for women living with HIV (WLH) due to the greater incidence and persistence of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) infection. HR-HPV self-sampling has been proposed to overcome barriers to in-office cervical cancer screening in underserved populations. However, little is known about baseline knowledge of HR-HPV and the acceptability of HR-HPV self-sampling among WLH. This paper describes WLH’s experiences and needs regarding cervical cancer screening, specifically HR-HPV self-sampling, and seeks to reconcile their experiences with the views of their providers. In total, 10 providers and 39 WLH participated in semi-structured interviews and group discussions, respectively. Knowledge of cervical cancer and HR-HPV was generally limited among WLH; when present, it was often due to personal experience of or proximity to someone affected by cervical cancer. Most WLH were not familiar with HR-HPV self-sampling but, despite some of the providers’ skepticism, expressed their willingness to participate in a mail-based HR-HPV self-sampling intervention and highlighted convenience, ease of use, and affordability as facilitators to the uptake of HR-HPV self-sampling. The experiences identified can be used to guide patient-centered communication aimed at improving cervical cancer knowledge and to inform interventions, such as HR-HPV self-sampling, designed to increase cervical cancer screening among under-screened WLH.
Diversification in the Comoros: Review of the Laccophilus alluaudi Species Group with the Description of Four New Species (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae)
Authors: Bergsten Johannes , Biström Olof
Published: January 2022

The Laccophilus alluaudi species group is an interesting case of an endemic species radiation of Madagascar and the Comoros. To date, a single species, Laccophilus tigrinus Guignot, 1959 (Anjouan), is known from the Comoro Islands, with eight other species known from Madagascar. Here we review the Laccophilus alluaudi species group from the Comoro Islands based on partly new material. We recognize five species, out of which four are here described as new: L. mohelicus n. sp. (Mohéli), L. denticulatus n. sp. (Grande Comore), L. michaelbalkei n. sp. (Mayotte) and L. mayottei n. sp. (Mayotte). Based on morphology of male genitalia, we hypothesize that the five species form a monophyletic group and originated from a single colonization event from Madagascar. If confirmed, this would constitute one of the few examples of intra-archipelago diversification in the Comoros. The knowledge of species limits in relation to their distribution in the Comoros archipelago is also urgently needed in the face of rapid habitat degradation.
Diversity and Distribution of Theileria Species and Their Vectors in Ruminants from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh
Authors: Zeb Jehan , Song Baolin , Aziz Muhammad Umair , Hussain Sabir , Zarin Riaz , Sparagano Olivier
Published: January 2022

Tropical theileriosis, caused by the apicomplexan hemoparasite of the genus Theileria, is a major constraint to livestock production in various parts of world, including South Asia. Several studies have been carried out over the last five decades; however, comprehensive information in this region regarding the diversity and distribution of Theileria is lacking. Therefore, keeping in mind the economic importance of theileriosis, we have systematically reviewed the current knowledge about Theileria spp. diversity and distribution affecting cattle, water buffaloes, goats and sheep in three countries included India, Pakistan and Bangladesh of the Indian sub-continent. The data collected indicated that the microscopic method is the widely used method for evaluating Theileria species in the three countries from 1970 to 2021. This is the first study in this region to compile a comprehensive knowledge about the diversity and distribution of Theileria. Our study revealed the existence of 11 different species of Theileria, including Theileria spp. Theleria annulata, T. orientalis, T. mutans, T. velifera circulating in cattle and buffalo while T. annulata, T. lestoquardi, T. luwenshuniT. ovis, Theileria spp. and T. lestoquardi-like spp., were infecting goats and sheep from various regions of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. We find that T. annulata can be found in both small and large ruminants and is widely distributed in the different regions of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. In addition, our analysis revealed that the existence of possible tick vectors of the genera Hyalomma, Haemophysalis, Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma may be responsible for the diverse and wide distribution of different Theileria species. However, the competence of these tick vectors for different Theileria species still need to be explored. Therefore, further studies are needed to bridge this gap and to improve the health and production of livestock and reduce economic losses due to theileriosis in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Furthermore, we selected representative 18S rRNA sequences for T. annulata from the different regions to infer phylogenetic relationship. Phylogenetic analysis of the selected isolates clustered in different clades which might be due to the variation in a hypervariable region of 18S rRNA. The outcome of this analysis is expected to provide a coherent and integrated framework about the different Theileria species prevailing in these countries and contribute to improving the surveillance and control plans of various Theileria species in the region.
Analysing Computer Science Courses over Time
Authors: Campagni Renza , Merlini Donatella , Verri Maria Cecilia
Published: January 2022

In this paper we consider courses of a Computer Science degree in an Italian university from the year 2011 up to 2020. For each course, we know the number of exams taken by students during a given calendar year and the corresponding average grade; we also know the average normalized value of the result obtained in the entrance test and the distribution of students according to the gender. By using classification and clustering techniques, we analyze different data sets obtained by pre-processing the original data with information about students and their exams, and highlight which courses show a significant deviation from the typical progression of the courses of the same teaching year, as time changes. Finally, we give heat maps showing the order in which exams were taken by graduated students. The paper shows a reproducible methodology that can be applied to any degree course with a similar organization, to identify courses that present critical issues over time. A strength of the work is to consider courses over time as variables of interest, instead of the more frequently used personal and academic data concerning students.
Managing FAIR Tribological Data Using Kadi4Mat
Authors: Brandt Nico , Garabedian Nikolay T. , Schoof Ephraim , Schreiber Paul J. , Zschumme Philipp , Greiner Christian , Selzer Michael
Published: January 2022

The ever-increasing amount of data generated from experiments and simulations in engineering sciences is relying more and more on data science applications to generate new knowledge. Comprehensive metadata descriptions and a suitable research data infrastructure are essential prerequisites for these tasks. Experimental tribology, in particular, presents some unique challenges in this regard due to the interdisciplinary nature of the field and the lack of existing standards. In this work, we demonstrate the versatility of the open source research data infrastructure Kadi4Mat by managing and producing FAIR tribological data. As a showcase example, a tribological experiment is conducted by an experimental group with a focus on comprehensiveness. The result is a FAIR data package containing all produced data as well as machine- and user-readable metadata. The close collaboration between tribologists and software developers shows a practical bottom-up approach and how such infrastructures are an essential part of our FAIR digital future.
Classification of the Confocal Microscopy Images of Colorectal Tumor and Inflammatory Colitis Mucosa Tissue Using Deep Learning
Authors: Jeong Jaehoon , Hong Seung Taek , Ullah Ihsan , Kim Eun Sun , Park Sang Hyun
Published: January 2022

Confocal microscopy image analysis is a useful method for neoplasm diagnosis. Many ambiguous cases are difficult to distinguish with the naked eye, thus leading to high inter-observer variability and significant time investments for learning this method. We aimed to develop a deep learning-based neoplasm classification model that classifies confocal microscopy images of 10× magnified colon tissues into three classes: neoplasm, inflammation, and normal tissue. ResNet50 with data augmentation and transfer learning approaches was used to efficiently train the model with limited training data. A class activation map was generated by using global average pooling to confirm which areas had a major effect on the classification. The proposed method achieved an accuracy of 81%, which was 14.05% more accurate than three machine learning-based methods and 22.6% better than the predictions made by four endoscopists. ResNet50 with data augmentation and transfer learning can be utilized to effectively identify neoplasm, inflammation, and normal tissue in confocal microscopy images. The proposed method outperformed three machine learning-based methods and identified the area that had a major influence on the results. Inter-observer variability and the time required for learning can be reduced if the proposed model is used with confocal microscopy image analysis for diagnosis.
A Challenging Diagnosis: Placental Mesenchymal Dysplasia—Literature Review and Case Report
Authors: Mehedintu Claudia , Frincu Francesca , Ionescu Oana-Maria , Cirstoiu Monica Mihaela , Sajin Maria , Olinca Maria , Bratila Elvira , Petca Aida , Carp-Veliscu Andreea
Published: January 2022

We describe a 22-year-old woman (2-gravid) case who was referred to our clinic at 18 weeks of gestation for a placenta with vesicular lesions discovered on prenatal examination routine. An ultrasound exam at 31 weeks of gestation showed numerous vesicular lesions, which gradually augmented as the pregnancy advanced. A live normal-appearing fetus was confirmed by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). The maternal serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin level remained in normal ranges. At some point, a multidisciplinary medical consensus considered the termination of the pregnancy, but the patient refused to comply. At 33 weeks of gestation, preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM) occurred, and she spontaneously delivered a 1600 g healthy female baby with a good long-term outcome. Placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) was retrospectively diagnosed after confronting the data from ultrasound, chorionic villus sampling (CVS), amniocentesis, pathological examination, and immunohistochemical stain. The lack of sufficient reports of PMD determines doctors to be cautious and reserved, approaching these cases more radically than necessary. We reviewed this disease and searched for all cases of PMD associated with healthy, live newborns.
SARS-CoV-2 Sero-Surveillance in Greece: Evolution over Time and Epidemiological Attributes during the Pre-Vaccination Pandemic Era
Authors: Koureas Michalis , Bogogiannidou Zacharoula , Vontas Alexandros , Kyritsi Maria A. , Mouchtouri Varvara A. , Dadouli Katerina , Anagnostopoulos Lemonia , Mina Paraskevi , Matziri Alexia , Ntouska Maria , Tsigaridaki Maria , Gkiata Vasiliki , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Ntzani Evangelia E. , Prezerakos Panagiotis , Tsiodras Sotirios , Speletas Matthaios , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: January 2022

Background: Nation-wide SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence surveys provide valuable insights into the course of the pandemic, including information often not captured by routine surveillance of reported cases. Methods: A serosurvey of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 was conducted in Greece between March and December 2020. It was designed as a cross-sectional survey repeated at monthly intervals. The leftover sampling methodology was used and a geographically stratified sampling plan was applied. Results: Of 55,947 serum samples collected, 705 (1.26%) were found positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, with higher seroprevalence (9.09%) observed in December 2020. Highest seropositivity levels were observed in the “0–29” and “30–49” year age groups. Seroprevalence increased with age in the “0–29” age group. Highly populated metropolitan areas were characterized with elevated seroprevalence levels (11.92% in Attica, 12.76% in Thessaloniki) compared to the rest of the country (5.90%). The infection fatality rate (IFR) was estimated at 0.451% (95% CI: 0.382–0.549%) using aggregate data until December 2020, and the ratio of actual to reported cases was 9.59 (7.88–11.33). Conclusions: The evolution of seroprevalence estimates aligned with the course of the pandemic and varied widely by region and age group. Young and middle-aged adults appeared to be drivers of the pandemic during a severe epidemic wave under strict policy measures.
Comparative Analysis of the Diagnostic Effectiveness of SATRO ECG in the Diagnosis of Ischemia Diagnosed in Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy Performed Using the SPECT Method
Authors: Janicki Łukasz Jerzy , Leoński Wiesław , Janicki Jerzy Stanisław , Nowotarski Mateusz , Dziuk Mirosław , Piotrowicz Ryszard
Published: January 2022

There is a great need for early diagnosis of ischemic heart disease (IHD), the most common cause of which is haemodynamic disorders caused mainly by obstructive atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. The diagnosis of IHD is usually made with the use of functional tests, which include resting ECG (R) or examination of significant perfusion disorders during exercise using the SPECT method. Despite the fact that the ECG (R) test is commonly used in cardiological diagnostics, it has a limited diagnostic value, especially in people with a low probability of coronary artery disease (CAD). In order to increase the effectiveness of the ECG (R) examination, SATRO ECG software, based on the single fibres heart activity model (SFHAM), was used to evaluate the electrocardiograms. The introduction of new classifiers from the available medical data to the analysis made it possible to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of SATRO ECG (TOT) in predicting significant perfusion disorders in the exercise SPECT (TOT 2). These disorders are most often caused by obstructive atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries, which is the main cause of CAD. The database of 316 patients (219 men and 97 women, aged 57 ± 10 years) was analyzed using resting and stress ECG, perfusion scintigraphy performed using the SPECT method, and SATRO ECG analysis. The diagnostic efficacy parameters of SATRO ECG (TOT) in predicting significant perfusion abnormalities in the exercise-induced SPECT (TOT 2) study were: sensitivity, 99%; specificity, 91%; concordance, 96%; and positive, 96%, and negative, 97%, predictive values. The Kappa–Cohen coefficient was 0.92, and the statistical significance coefficient was p < 0.001. These results indicate a statistically significant agreement in the diagnosis of IHD in both diagnostic methods used.
Expert Consensus Document: Diagnosis for Chronic Constipation with Faecal Retention in the Rectum Using Ultrasonography
Authors: Matsumoto Masaru , Misawa Noboru , Tsuda Momoko , Manabe Noriaki , Kessoku Takaomi , Tamai Nao , Kawamoto Atsuo , Sugama Junko , Tanaka Hideko , Kato Mototsugu , Haruma Ken , Sanada Hiromi , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: January 2022

Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder in older adults, and it is very important to manage chronic constipation. However, evaluating these subjective symptoms is extremely difficult in cases where patients are unable to express their symptoms because of a cognitive or physical impairment. Hence, it is necessary to observe the patient’s colonic faecal retention using objective methods. Ultrasonography observation for colonic faecal retention is useful for diagnosing constipation and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment. Since there was no standard protocol for interpreting rectal ultrasonography findings, we developed an observation protocol through an expert consensus. We convened a group of experts in the diagnosis and evaluation of chronic constipation and ultrasonography to discuss and review the current literature on this matter. Together, they composed a succinct, evidence-based observation protocol for rectal faecal retention using ultrasonography. We created an observation protocol to enhance the quality and accuracy of diagnosis of chronic constipation, especially rectal constipation. This consensus statement is intended to serve as a guide for physicians, laboratory technicians and nurses who do not specialise in ultrasound or the diagnosis of chronic constipation.
A Review of Posteromedial Lesions of the Chest Wall: What Should a Chest Radiologist Know?
Authors: Haseli Sara , Mansoori Bahar , Shafiei Mehrzad , Shomal Zadeh Firoozeh , Chalian Hamid , Khoshpouri Parisa , Yousem David , Chalian Majid
Published: January 2022

A heterogeneous group of tumors can affect the posteromedial chest wall. They form diverse groups of benign and malignant (primary or secondary) pathologies that can arise from different chest wall structures, i.e., fat, muscular, vascular, osseous, or neurogenic tissues. Chest radiography is very nonspecific for the characterization of chest wall lesions. The modality of choice for the initial assessment of the chest wall lesions is computed tomography (CT). More advanced cross-sectional modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) with fluorodeoxyglucose are usually used for further characterization, staging, treatment response, and assessment of recurrence. A systematic approach based on age, clinical history, and radiologic findings is required for correct diagnosis. It is essential for radiologists to be familiar with the spectrum of lesions that might affect the posteromedial chest wall and their characteristic imaging features. Although the imaging findings of these tumors can be nonspecific, cross-sectional imaging helps to limit the differential diagnosis and determine the further diagnostic investigation (e.g., image-guided biopsy). Specific imaging findings, e.g., location, mineralization, enhancement pattern, and local invasion, occasionally allow a particular diagnosis. This article reviews the posteromedial chest wall anatomy and different pathologies. We provide a combination of location and imaging features of each pathology. We will also explore the role of imaging and its strengths and limitations for diagnosing posteromedial chest wall lesions.
Perimenopausal Bone Loss Is Associated with Ovulatory Activity—Results of the PeKnO Study (Perimenopausal Bone Density and Ovulation)
Authors: Starrach Teresa , Santl Anita , Seifert-Klauss Vanadin Regina
Published: January 2022

Background: During the menopausal transition, around 25% of women experience a particularly accelerated loss of bone mineral density. These so-called “fast bone losers” represent a group of patients with an increased risk of osteoporosis. The precise mechanisms underlying this extraordinary level of bone mass reduction have not yet been conclusively elucidated. The PeKnO study (Perimenopausale Knochendichte und Ovulation; Perimenopausal Bone Density and Ovulation) was a 2-year prospective study investigating menstrual cycle changes, hormonal levels, markers of bone metabolism, and changes in bone mineral density (BMD) in perimenopausal women. The PeKnO study specifically focused on the questions of when the maximum of bone loss occurs, whether the decreasing number of ovulatory cycles correlates with increased bone density loss, and which hormones play a role during these processes. Methods: Healthy women aged ≥45 years with menstrual cycles of ≤42 days and without any exogenous hormonal intake continually self-assessed the lengths of their menstrual cycles and the occurrence of LH peaks with the help of a commercially available electronic fertility monitoring device. At baseline and at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, hormones (LH, FSH, 17β-estradiol, progesterone, cortisol) and markers of bone metabolism (bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP), osteocalcin (OC), and CTX (C-terminal telopeptide) were assessed during the luteal phase. Trabecular bone density was measured in the lumbar spine (vertebrae L1 through L3) by means of quantitative computed tomography (QCT) at the beginning and at the end of the 2-year study period. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the changes in bone mineral density (BMD) that occurred within the period of 2 years: group I with an increase in BMD, group II with a decrease in BMD of ≤7%, and group III with a decline in BMD of >7%. Women in the latter group were defined as fast bone losers. Results: From a total of 72 recruited patients with an average age of 48.1 (±2.4) at baseline, complete 2-year data were available from 49 participants. Over the course of 24 months, mean bone mineral density decreased by −4.26 (±4.65). In the same time period, the proportion of ovulatory cycles declined from 67% to 33%. The decrease in the ovulatory rate significantly correlated with an enhanced BMD loss (r = 0.68; p < 0.05). Twelve of the forty-nine participants (24.3%) showed a BMD loss of >7% and were identified as fast bone losers. Levels of the luteal phase hormones LH, FSH, 17β-estradiol, and progesterone were significantly different between the three groups. Conclusion: The PeKnO study confirms a marked decline of the ovulatory rate during perimenopause, which is associated with an increased bone density loss while estrogen levels are still adequate.
The Diagnostic Deceiver: Radiological Pictorial Review of Tuberculosis
Authors: Alshoabi Sultan Abdulwadoud , Almas Khaled M. , Aldofri Saif A. , Hamid Abdullgabbar M. , Alhazmi Fahad H. , Alsharif Walaa M. , Abdulaal Osamah M. , Qurashi Abdulaziz A. , Aloufi Khalid M. , Alsultan Kamal D. , Omer Awatif M. , Daqqaq Tareef S.
Published: January 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis; it is a public health problem worldwide and one of the leading causes of mortality. Since December 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented health challenges and disrupted the TB health services, especially in high-burden countries with ever-increasing prevalence. Extrapulmonary and even pulmonary TB are an important cause of nonspecific clinical and radiological manifestations and can masquerade as any benign or malignant medical case, thus causing disastrous conditions and diagnostic dilemmas. Clinical manifestations and routine laboratory tests have limitations in directing physicians to diagnose TB. Medical-imaging examinations play an essential role in detecting tissue abnormalities and early suspecting diagnosis of TB in different organs. Radiologists and physicians should be familiar with and aware of the radiological manifestations of TB to contribute to the early suspicion and diagnosis of TB. The purpose of this article is to illustrate the common radiologic patterns of pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB. This article will be beneficial for radiologists, medical students, chest physicians, and infectious-disease doctors who are interested in the diagnosis of TB.
From NTM (Nontuberculous mycobacterium) to Gordonia bronchialis—A Diagnostic Challenge in the COPD Patient
Authors: Franczuk Monika , Klatt Magdalena , Filipczak Dorota , Zabost Anna , Parniewski Paweł , Kuthan Robert , Jakubowska Lilia , Augustynowicz-Kopeć Ewa
Published: January 2022

In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, respiratory infections are of various aetiology, predominantly viral and bacterial. However, due to structural and immunological changes within the respiratory system, such patients are also prone to mycobacterial and other relatively rare infections. We present the 70-year old male patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and coexisting bronchial asthma, diagnosed due to cough with purulent sputum expectoration lasting over three months. The first microbiological investigation of the sputum sample revealed the growth of mycobacteria. The identification test based on protein MPT64 production indicated an organism belonging to NTM (nontuberculous mycobacterium). However, further species identification by genetic testing verified the obtained culture as not belonging to the Mycobacterium genus. Based on observed morphology, the new characterisation identified an aerobic actinomycete, possibly a Nocardia spp. The isolated strain was recultured on standard microbiological media. The growth of colonies was observed on Columbia blood agar plates and solid Löewenstein-Jensen medium. The Gram and Zhiel-Nielsen stains revealed the presence of Gram-positive acid-fast bacilli. The extraction protocol and identification were performed in two repetitions; the result was G. bronchialis, with a confidence value of 99% and 95%, respectively. The gene sequencing method was applied to confirm the species affiliation of this isolate. The resulting sequence was checked against the 16S ribosomal RNA sequences database (Bacteria and Archaea). The ten best results indicated the genus Gordonia (99.04–100%) and 100% similarity of the 16S sequenced region was demonstrated for Gordonia bronchialis. The case described indicates that the correct interpretation of microbiological test results requires the use of advanced microbiology diagnosis techniques, including molecular identification of gene sequences. From a clinical point of view, Gordonia bronchialis infection or colonization may present a mild course, with no febrile episodes and no significant patient status deterioration and thus, it may remain undiagnosed more often than expected.
An Antibody-Aptamer-Hybrid Lateral Flow Assay for Detection of CXCL9 in Antibody-Mediated Rejection after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Seiler Lisa K. , Phung Ngoc Linh , Nikolin Christoph , Immenschuh Stephan , Erck Christian , Kaufeld Jessica , Haller Hermann , Falk Christine S. , Jonczyk Rebecca , Lindner Patrick , Thoms Stefanie , Siegl Julia , Mayer Günter , Feederle Regina , Blume Cornelia A.
Published: January 2022

Chronic antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is a key limiting factor for the clinical outcome of a kidney transplantation (Ktx), where early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention is needed. This study describes the identification of the biomarker CXC-motif chemokine ligand (CXCL) 9 as an indicator for AMR and presents a new aptamer-antibody-hybrid lateral flow assay (hybrid-LFA) for detection in urine. Biomarker evaluation included two independent cohorts of kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) from a protocol biopsy program and used subgroup comparisons according to BANFF-classifications. Plasma, urine and biopsy lysate samples were analyzed with a Luminex-based multiplex assay. The CXCL9-specific hybrid-LFA was developed based upon a specific rat antibody immobilized on a nitrocellulose-membrane and the coupling of a CXCL9-binding aptamer to gold nanoparticles. LFA performance was assessed according to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Among 15 high-scored biomarkers according to a neural network analysis, significantly higher levels of CXCL9 were found in plasma and urine and biopsy lysates of KTRs with biopsy-proven AMR. The newly developed hybrid-LFA reached a sensitivity and specificity of 71% and an AUC of 0.79 for CXCL9. This point-of-care-test (POCT) improves early diagnosis-making in AMR after Ktx, especially in KTRs with undetermined status of donor-specific HLA-antibodies.
The Role of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sivalokanathan Sanjay
Published: January 2022

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common inherited cardiac disorder, affecting 1 out of 500 adults globally. It is a widely heterogeneous disorder characterized by a range of phenotypic expressions, and is most often identified by non-invasive imaging that includes echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). Within the last two decades, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as the defining tool for the characterization and prognostication of cardiomyopathies. With a higher image quality, spatial resolution, and the identification of morphological variants of HCM, CMR has become the gold standard imaging modality in the assessment of HCM. Moreover, it has been crucial in its management, as well as adding prognostic information that clinical history nor other imaging modalities may not provide. This literature review addresses the role and current applications of CMR, its capacity in evaluating HCM, and its limitations.
Dynamic Standing Exercise in a Novel Assistive Device Compared with Standard Care for Children with Cerebral Palsy Who Are Non-Ambulant, with Regard to Quality of Life and Cost-Effectiveness
Authors: Lauruschkus Katarina , Jarl Johan , Fasth Gillstedt Katharina , Tornberg Åsa B.
Published: January 2022

Children with cerebral palsy who are non-ambulant cannot stand or walk independently. In Sweden, daily static standing is part of standard care for these children even though it is time-consuming and costly, and while it may benefit the well-being of many children, it is inconvenient for others. A novel stander enables dynamic standing through walking movements. The aim of this study was to compare dynamic and static standing regarding quality of life and cost-effectiveness. Twenty children with cerebral palsy who were non-ambulant were included in this randomized controlled study with a cross-over design. Mean age of the participants was 11.6 ± 3.6 years, nine were female. They participated in four months of static and four months of dynamic standing. Quality of life was assessed with the Caregiver Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities (CPCHILD), which has been shown to be valid and reliable, and is tailored to children with severe cerebral palsy. Information about other aspects of quality of life and about cost-effectiveness was collected by study-specific questionnaires. Dynamic standing was the preferred alternative from the family perspective, as it cost less (€64, p < 0.01) and had greater benefits than standard (static standing) care. From societal and healthcare provider perspectives, dynamic standing had benefits but higher costs than static standing (€290 and €354 respectively, p < 0.01). These findings may contribute to the development of individualized standing recommendations.
Statistical Inference of Inverted Exponentiated Rayleigh Distribution under Joint Progressively Type-II Censoring
Authors: Fan Jingwen , Gui Wenhao
Published: January 2022

Inverted exponentiated Rayleigh distribution is a widely used and important continuous lifetime distribution, which plays a key role in lifetime research. The joint progressively type-II censoring scheme is an effective method used in the quality evaluation of products from different assembly lines. In this paper, we study the statistical inference of inverted exponentiated Rayleigh distribution based on joint progressively type-II censored data. The likelihood function and maximum likelihood estimates are obtained firstly by adopting Expectation-Maximization algorithm. Then, we calculate the observed information matrix based on the missing value principle. Bootstrap-p and Bootstrap-t methods are applied to get confidence intervals. Bayesian approaches under square loss function and linex loss function are provided respectively to derive the estimates, during which the importance sampling method is introduced. Finally, the Monte Carlo simulation and real data analysis are performed for further study.
Learning Your Options: Option-Based Model of Export Readiness and Optimal Export
Authors: Ilinski Kirill
Published: January 2022

In this short note we offer a novel quantitative approach to modeling of early stages of firm’s internalization, namely stages of accumulation of export readiness and their export debut. In particular, we introduce a new model of export readiness and offer an explicit way of how the export readiness can be accounted in the company share price. The model considers export readiness as a non-observable intangible asset that changes a firm’s asset dynamics. This, in the framework of an option-based debt-equity Merton model, affects both the equity and debt of the company. The approach also allows one to define the contribution of export readiness to equity price and to find a self-consistent quantitative solution to the problem of optimal export strategy and the corresponding optimal firm’s capital allocation.
Comparative Analysis of Social Support in Online Health Communities Using a Word Co-Occurrence Network Analysis Approach
Authors: Liu Mengque , Zou Xia , Chen Jiyin , Ma Shuangge
Published: January 2022

Online health communities (OHCs) have become a major source of social support for people with health problems. Members of OHCs interact online with others facing similar health problems and receive multiple types of social support, including but not limited to informational support, emotional support, and companionship. The aim of this study is to examine the differences in social support communication among people with different types of cancers. A novel approach is developed to better understand the types of social support embedded in OHC posts. Our approach, based on the word co-occurrence network analysis, preserves the semantic structures of the texts. Information extraction from the semantic structures is supported by the interplay of quantitative and qualitative analyses of the network structures. Our analysis shows that significant differences in social support exist across cancer types, and evidence for the differences across diseases in terms of communication preferences and language use is also identified. Overall, this study can establish a new venue for extracting and analyzing information, so as to inform social support for clinical care.
Nonequilibrium Thermodynamics of Polymeric Liquids via Atomistic Simulation
Authors: Edwards Brian , Nafar Sefiddashti Mohammad , Khomami Bamin
Published: January 2022

The challenge of calculating nonequilibrium entropy in polymeric liquids undergoing flow was addressed from the perspective of extending equilibrium thermodynamics to include internal variables that quantify the internal microstructure of chain-like macromolecules and then applying these principles to nonequilibrium conditions under the presumption of an evolution of quasie equilibrium states in which the requisite internal variables relax on different time scales. The nonequilibrium entropy can be determined at various levels of coarse-graining of the polymer chains by statistical expressions involving nonequilibrium distribution functions that depend on the type of flow and the flow strength. Using nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations of a linear, monodisperse, entangled C1000H2002 polyethylene melt, nonequilibrium entropy was calculated directly from the nonequilibrium distribution functions, as well as from their second moments, and also using the radial distribution function at various levels of coarse-graining of the constituent macromolecular chains. Surprisingly, all these different methods of calculating the nonequilibrium entropy provide consistent values under both planar Couette and planar elongational flows. Combining the nonequilibrium entropy with the internal energy allows determination of the Helmholtz free energy, which is used as a generating function of flow dynamics in nonequilibrium thermodynamic theory.
Baseline Methods for the Parameter Estimation of the Generalized Pareto Distribution
Authors: Martín Jacinto , Parra María Isabel , Pizarro Mario Martínez , Sanjuán Eva López
Published: January 2022

In the parameter estimation of limit extreme value distributions, most employed methods only use some of the available data. Using the peaks-over-threshold method for Generalized Pareto Distribution (GPD), only the observations above a certain threshold are considered; therefore, a big amount of information is wasted. The aim of this work is to make the most of the information provided by the observations in order to improve the accuracy of Bayesian parameter estimation. We present two new Bayesian methods to estimate the parameters of the GPD, taking into account the whole data set from the baseline distribution and the existing relations between the baseline and the limit GPD parameters in order to define highly informative priors. We make a comparison between the Bayesian Metropolis–Hastings algorithm with data over the threshold and the new methods when the baseline distribution is a stable distribution, whose properties assure we can reduce the problem to study standard distributions and also allow us to propose new estimators for the parameters of the tail distribution. Specifically, three cases of stable distributions were considered: Normal, Lévy and Cauchy distributions, as main examples of the different behaviors of the tails of a distribution. Nevertheless, the methods would be applicable to many other baseline distributions through finding relations between baseline and GPD parameters via studies of simulations. To illustrate this situation, we study the application of the methods with real data of air pollution in Badajoz (Spain), whose baseline distribution fits a Gamma, and show that the baseline methods improve estimates compared to the Bayesian Metropolis–Hastings algorithm.
An Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Bubble Growth in Polymeric Foams
Authors: Tammaro Daniele , Villone Massimiliano M. , D’Avino Gaetano , Maffettone Pier Luca
Published: January 2022

The cellular morphology of thermoplastic polymeric foams is a key factor for their performances. Three possible foam morphologies exist, namely, with closed cells, interconnected cellular structure, and open cells. In the gas foaming technology, a physical blowing agent, e.g., CO2 or N2, is used to form bubbles at high pressure in softened/melted polymers. As a consequence of a pressure quench, the bubbles grow in the liquid matrix until they impinge and possibly break the thin liquid films among them. If film breakage happens, the broken film may retract due to the elastic energy accumulated by the polymeric liquid during the bubble growth. This, in turn, determines the final morphology of the foam. In this work, we experimentally study the growth of CO2 bubbles in a poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL) matrix under different pressure conditions. In addition, we perform three-dimensional direct numerical simulations to support the experimental findings and rationalize the effects of the process parameters on the elastic energy accumulated in the liquid at the end of the bubble growth, and thus on the expected morphology of the foam. To do that, we also extend the analytic model available in the literature for the growth of a single bubble in a liquid to the case of a liquid with a multi-mode viscoelastic constitutive equation.