bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid metabolism within the bone micro-environment is closely associated with bone metabolism in physiological and pathophysiological stages
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Heng , Li Yuancheng , Song Lei
Published: January 2022

Recent advances in society have resulted in the emergence of both hyperlipidemia and obesity as life-threatening conditions in people with implications for various types of diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This is further complicated by a global rise in the aging population, especially menopausal women, who mostly suffer from overweight and bone loss simultaneously. Interestingly, clinical observations in these women suggest that osteoarthritis may be linked to a higher body mass index (BMI), which has led many to believe that there may be some degree of bone dysfunction associated with conditions such as obesity. It is also common practice in many outpatient settings to encourage patients to control their BMI and lose weight in an attempt to mitigate mechanical stress and thus reduce bone pain and joint dysfunction. Together, studies show that bone is not only a mechanical organ but also a critical component of metabolism, and various endocrine functions, such as calcium metabolism. Numerous studies have demonstrated a relationship between metabolic dysfunction in bone and abnormal lipid metabolism. Previous studies have also regarded obesity as a metabolic disorder. However, the relationship between lipid metabolism and bone metabolism has not been fully elucidated. In this narrative review, the data describing the close relationship between bone and lipid metabolism was summarized and the impact on both the normal physiology and pathophysiology of these tissues was discussed at both the molecular and cellular levels.
Adipocyte-specific deletion of PIP5K1c reduces diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance by increasing energy expenditure
Authors: Huang Guan , Yang Cuishan , Guo Sheng , Huang Miaoling , Deng Liping , Huang Ying , Chen Puxin , Chen Feng , Huang Xiaohong
Published: January 2022

Background

Phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase type I c (PIP5K1c) catalyses the synthesis of phospholipid phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) by phosphorylating phosphatidylinositol 4 phosphate, which plays multiple roles in regulating focal adhesion formation, invasion, and cell migration signal transduction cascades. Here, a new physiological mechanism of PIP5K1c in adipocytes and systemic metabolism is reported.

Methods

Adipose-specific conditional knockout mice were generated to delete the PIP5K1c gene in adipocytes. In addition, in vitro research investigated the effect of PIP5K1c deletion on adipogenesis.

Results

Deletion of PIP5K1c in adipocytes significantly alleviated high fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, hyperlipidaemia, hepatic steatosis, and insulin resistance. PIP5K1c deficiency in adipocytes also decreased adipocyte volume in HFD-induced obese mice, whereas no significant differences were observed in body weight and adipose tissue weight under normal chow diet conditions. PIP5K1c knockout in adipocytes significantly enhanced energy expenditure, which protected mice from HFD-induced weight gain. In addition, adipogenesis was markedly impaired in mouse stromal vascular fraction (SVF) from PIP5K1c-deleted mice.

Conclusion

Under HFD conditions, PIP5K1c regulates adipogenesis and adipose tissue homeostasis. Together, these data indicate that PIP5K1c could be a novel potential target for regulating fat accumulation, which could provide novel insight into the treatment of obesity.
Recurrent malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor presenting as an asymptomatic intravenous thrombus extending to the heart: a case report
Authors: Hirozane Toru , Nakayama Robert , Yamaguchi Sayaka , Mori Tomoaki , Asano Naofumi , Asakura Keisuke , Kikuta Kazutaka , Kawaida Miho , Sasaki Aya , Okita Hajime , Nakatsuka Seishi , Ito Tsutomu
Published: January 2022

Background

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a rare soft tissue sarcoma mainly treated via surgical resection. Herein, we report a case of MPNST wherein a massive tumor thrombus extended to the major veins and heart.

Case presentation

A 39-year-old female with a history of neurofibromatosis type 1 developed MPNST from the right radial nerve. In addition to adjuvant chemotherapy, she underwent wide tumor resection and concomitant radial nerve resection, followed by postoperative radiotherapy. Histological evaluation revealed marked venous invasion. The 2-year follow-up CT revealed an asymptomatic recurrent tumor thrombus extending from the right subclavian vein to the heart. An urgent life-saving operation was performed to ligate the base of the right subclavian vein and remove the entire intravenous thrombus that extended to the right ventricle. The remaining tumor in the right subclavian vein increased in size 3 months after thrombectomy. After confirming the absence of any metastatic lesions, the patient underwent extended forequarter amputation to achieve surgical remission. One year later, a new metastasis to the right diaphragm was safely resected. The patient remains alive without any evidence of disease 2 years after the extended forequarter amputation.

Conclusions

In cases of a previous history of microscopic venous invasion, recurrence can occur as a massive tumor thrombus that extends to the great vessels.
Gasless, endoscopic trans-axillary thyroid surgery: our series of the first 51 human cases
Authors: Cong Rong , Li Xinying , Ouyang Hui , Xue Wenbo , Zhang Zeyu , Xia Fada
Published: January 2022

Background

The safety of gasless endoscopic trans-axillary thyroid surgery is still undetermined.

Methods

Clinical findings and postoperative complications of patients who had undergone trans-axillary thyroid surgery due to thyroid cancer and thyroid nodules were retrospectively studied. The sensory change and paralysis results from this technique and patients’ satisfaction with the cosmesis were also studied.

Results

Fifty-one patients (49 females and 2 males) received operations by gasless, endoscopic trans-axillary approaches with one patient whose operation was converted to open surgery because of internal jugular vein injury. Only two patients developed temporary vocal cord paralysis and no patients developed other severe complications. The alleviation of the discomfort in the anterior neck area and sternocleidomastoid, and the cosmetic effect of gasless endoscopic trans-axillary thyroid surgery were acceptable. No evidence of recurrence was found during the follow-up period.

Conclusions

Gasless, endoscopic trans-axillary thyroid surgery is a feasible procedure with acceptable safety and better cosmetic results in strictly selected patients.
Feasibility of a virtual reality-based exercise intervention and low-cost motion tracking method for estimation of motor proficiency in youth with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Hocking Darren R. , Ardalan Adel , Abu-Rayya Hisham M. , Farhat Hassan , Andoni Anna , Lenroot Rhoshel , Kachnowski Stan
Published: January 2022

Background

Motor impairment is widely acknowledged as a core feature in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which can affect adaptive behavior and increase severity of symptoms. Low-cost motion capture and virtual reality (VR) game technologies hold a great deal of promise for providing personalized approaches to motor intervention in ASD. The present study explored the feasibility, acceptability and potential efficacy of a custom-designed VR game-based intervention (GaitWayXR™) for improving gross motor skills in youth with ASD.

Methods

Ten children and adolescents (10–17 years) completed six, 20-min VR-based motor training sessions over 2 weeks while whole-body movement was tracked with a low-cost motion capture system. We developed a methodology for using motion tracking data to quantify whole-body movement in terms of efficiency, synchrony and symmetry. We then studied the relationships of the above quantities with standardized measures of motor skill and cognitive flexibility.

Results

Our results supported our presumption that the VR intervention is safe, with no adverse events and very few minor to moderate side-effects, while a large proportion of parents said they would use the VR game at home, the most prohibitive reasons for adopting the system for home therapy were cost and space. Although there was little evidence of any benefits of the GaitWayXR™ intervention in improving gross motor skills, we showed several positive correlations between the standardized measures of gross motor skills in ASD and our measures of efficiency, symmetry and synchrony from low-cost motion capture.

Conclusions

These findings, though preliminary and limited by small sample size, suggest that low-cost motion capture of children with ASD is feasible with movement exercises in a VR-based game environment. Based on these preliminary findings, we recommend conducting larger-scale studies with methods for improving adherence to VR gaming interventions over longer periods.
Exposure to silicates and systemic autoimmune-related outcomes in rodents: a systematic review
Authors: Janssen Lisa M. F. , Ghosh Manosij , Lemaire Frauke , Michael Pollard K. , Hoet Peter H. M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Autoimmunity can result from the interplay between genetic background and effects of environmental and/or occupational exposure to hazardous materials. Several compounds, including silica dust, have been linked with systemic autoimmunity and systemic autoimmune diseases, based on epidemiological evidence. For asbestos, a strong link with systemic autoimmune diseases does not yet exist, however, several studies have documented features of autoimmunity following asbestos exposure. Even so, human studies are limited in their ability to identify and examine isolated exposures, making it difficult to demonstrate causation or to assess pathogenic mechanisms. Therefore, this systematic review examines the existing animal evidence regarding autoimmunity and exposure to silicates (silica and asbestos).

Methods

PubMed and EMBASE were systematically searched for peer-reviewed studies examining systemic autoimmune disease-related outcomes after silicate exposure in rodents. Literature databases were searched up to September 2021 for studies written in English and where the full text was available. Search strings were established based on a PECO (Population, Exposure, Comparator, Outcome) format. After title, abstract, and full-text screening, thirty-four studies were identified for further analysis. Quality assessment through ToxR tool and qualitative analysis of the results was performed.

Results

Although there was significant heterogeneity in the included studies in terms of exposure protocol and genetic background of the rodent models used, it was noted that both genetic background and exposure to silicates [(crystalline) silica and asbestos] are highly relevant to the development of (sub-) clinical systemic autoimmune disease.

Conclusion

Parallels were observed between the findings from the animal (this review) and human (epidemiological) studies, arguing that experimental animal models are valuable tools for examining exacerbation or development of autoimmune disease after silicate exposure. However, genetic background and synergism between exposures should be considered in future studies.
Primary desmoplastic small round cell tumor of the submandibular gland: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhou Jiayu , Li Qingling , Luo Baihua , Fu Xiaodan , Ou Chunlin , Gao Xiaomei , Xu Zhijie , Feng Deyun , Yang Keda
Published: January 2022

Background

Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a sporadic, highly malignant tumor with a poor prognosis. The abdomen and pelvis have been reported as the primary localization sites. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are few reports on primary DSRCT in the submandibular gland.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 26-year-old Chinese man with a mass in the right submandibular gland. Imaging studies showed a hypoechoic mass in the right submandibular region. Intraoperative pathology revealed that the tumor tissue was composed of small round tumor cells and a dense desmoplastic stroma. On immunostaining, the tumor cells showed markers of epithelial, mesenchymal, myogenic, and neural differentiation. TheEWSR1gene rearrangement was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Based on the overall morphological features and immunohistochemical findings, a final diagnosis of DSRCT was made. The patient was treated with comprehensive anti-tumor therapy mainly based on radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Conclusions

DSRCT is an uncommon malignant neoplasm with rare submandibular gland involvement. In this report, we have described a case of DSRCT in the submandibular gland and reviewed the literature on DSRCT over the past 5 years. Considering the importance of differential diagnosis between DSRCT, especially with rare extra-peritoneal involvement, and small round blue cell tumors, a full recognition of the clinicopathological features will help to better diagnose this neoplasm.
Integrative analysis of 3604 GWAS reveals multiple novel cell type-specific regulatory associations
Authors: Breeze Charles E. , Haugen Eric , Reynolds Alex , Teschendorff Andrew , van Dongen Jenny , Lan Qing , Rothman Nathaniel , Bourque Guillaume , Dunham Ian , Beck Stephan , Stamatoyannopoulos John , Franceschini Nora , Berndt Sonja I.
Published: January 2022

Background

Genome-wide association study (GWAS) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are known to preferentially co-locate to active regulatory elements in tissues and cell types relevant to disease aetiology. Further characterisation of associated cell type-specific regulation can broaden our understanding of how GWAS signals may contribute to disease risk.

Results

To gain insight into potential functional mechanisms underlying GWAS associations, we developed FORGE2 (https://forge2.altiusinstitute.org/), which is an updated version of the FORGE web tool. FORGE2 uses an expanded atlas of cell type-specific regulatory element annotations, including DNase I hotspots, five histone mark categories and 15 hidden Markov model (HMM) chromatin states, to identify tissue- and cell type-specific signals. An analysis of 3,604 GWAS from the NHGRI-EBI GWAS catalogue yielded at least one significant disease/trait-tissue association for 2,057 GWAS, including > 400 associations specific to epigenomic marks in immune tissues and cell types, > 30 associations specific to heart tissue, and > 60 associations specific to brain tissue, highlighting the key potential of tissue- and cell type-specific regulatory elements. Importantly, we demonstrate that FORGE2 analysis can separate previously observed accessible chromatin enrichments into different chromatin states, such as enhancers or active transcription start sites, providing a greater understanding of underlying regulatory mechanisms. Interestingly, tissue-specific enrichments for repressive chromatin states and histone marks were also detected, suggesting a role for tissue-specific repressed regions in GWAS-mediated disease aetiology.

Conclusion

In summary, we demonstrate that FORGE2 has the potential to uncover previously unreported disease-tissue associations and identify new candidate mechanisms. FORGE2 is a transparent, user-friendly web tool for the integrative analysis of loci discovered from GWAS.
T cell receptor beta germline variability is revealed by inference from repertoire data
Authors: Omer Aviv , Peres Ayelet , Rodriguez Oscar L , Watson Corey T , Lees William , Polak Pazit , Collins Andrew M , Yaari Gur
Published: January 2022

Background

T and B cell receptor (TCR, BCR) repertoires constitute the foundation of adaptive immunity. Adaptive immune receptor repertoire sequencing (AIRR-seq) is a common approach to study immune system dynamics. Understanding the genetic factors influencing the composition and dynamics of these repertoires is of major scientific and clinical importance. The chromosomal loci encoding for the variable regions of TCRs and BCRs are challenging to decipher due to repetitive elements and undocumented structural variants.

Methods

To confront this challenge, AIRR-seq-based methods have recently been developed for B cells, enabling genotype and haplotype inference and discovery of undocumented alleles. However, this approach relies on complete coverage of the receptors’ variable regions, whereas most T cell studies sequence a small fraction of that region. Here, we adapted a B cell pipeline for undocumented alleles, genotype, and haplotype inference for full and partial AIRR-seq TCR data sets. The pipeline also deals with gene assignment ambiguities, which is especially important in the analysis of data sets of partial sequences.

Results

From the full and partial AIRR-seq TCR data sets, we identified 39 undocumented polymorphisms in T cell receptor Beta V (TRBV) and 31 undocumented 5 ′ UTR sequences. A subset of these inferences was also observed using independent genomic approaches. We found that a single nucleotide polymorphism differentiating between the two documented T cell receptor Beta D2 (TRBD2) alleles is strongly associated with dramatic changes in the expressed repertoire.

Conclusions

We reveal a rich picture of germline variability and demonstrate how a single nucleotide polymorphism dramatically affects the composition of the whole repertoire. Our findings provide a basis for annotation of TCR repertoires for future basic and clinical studies.
Advancing child health and educational equity during the COVID-19 pandemic through science and advocacy
Authors: Gur-Arie Rachel , Johnson Sara , Collins Megan
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the changing role of scientists, clinicians, ethicists, and educators in advocacy as they rapidly translate their findings to inform practice and policy. Critical efforts have been directed towards understanding child well-being, especially with pandemic-related educational disruptions. While school closures were part of early widespread public health measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, they have not been without consequences for all children, and especially for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. In a recent Isr J Health Policy Res perspective, Paltiel and colleagues demonstrate the integral role of academic activism to promote child well-being during the pandemic by highlighting work of the multidisciplinary academic group on children and coronavirus (MACC). In this commentary, we explore parallels to MACC’s work in an international context by describing the efforts of a multidisciplinary team at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, to aggregate data, conduct analyses, and offer training tools intended to minimize health and educational inequities for children throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As both MACC and our work collectively demonstrates, multidisciplinary partnerships and public-facing data-driven initiatives are crucial to advocating for children's equitable access to quality health and education. This will likely not be the last pandemic that children experience in their lifetime. As such, efforts should be made to apply the lessons learned during the current pandemic to strengthen multidisciplinary academic-public partnerships which will continue to play a critical role in the future.
Facial and body sexual dimorphism are not interconnected in the Maasai
Authors: Butovskaya Marina L. , Rostovtseva Victoria V. , Mezentseva Anna A.
Published: January 2022

Background

In this paper, we investigate facial sexual dimorphism and its’ association with body dimorphism in Maasai, the traditional seminomadic population of Tanzania. We discuss findings on other human populations and possible factors affecting the developmental processes in Maasai.

Methods

Full-face anthropological photographs were obtained from 305 Maasai (185 men, 120 women) aged 17–90 years. Facial shape was assessed combining geometric morphometrics and classical facial indices. Body parameters were measured directly using precise anthropological instruments.

Results

Sexual dimorphism in Maasai faces was low, sex explained 1.8% of the total shape variance. However, male faces were relatively narrower and vertically prolonged, with slightly wider noses, narrower-set and lower eyebrows, wider mouths, and higher forehead hairline. The most sexually dimorphic regions of the face were the lower jaw and the nose. Facial width-to-height ratio (fWHR), measured in six known variants, revealed no significant sexual dimorphism. The allometric effects on facial traits were mostly related to the face growth, rather than the growth of the whole body (body height). Significant body dimorphism was demonstrated, men being significantly higher, with larger wrist diameter and hand grip strength, and women having higher BMI, hips circumferences, upper arm circumferences, triceps skinfolds. Facial and body sexual dimorphisms were not associated.

Conclusions

Facial sex differences in Maasai are very low, while on the contrary, the body sexual dimorphism is high. There were practically no associations between facial and body measures. These findings are interpreted in the light of trade-offs between environmental, cultural, and sexual selection pressures.
Asymmetry of the male internal reproductive organs in Mantophasmatodea
Authors: Kreuz Josefine , Eberhard Monika J. B.
Published: January 2022

Background

Asymmetries are a widespread phenomenon in otherwise bilaterally symmetric organisms, and investigation of asymmetric structures can help us gather insights into fundamental evolutionary processes such as the selection for morphological novelties caused by behavioural changes. In insects, asymmetric genitalia have evolved in almost every order, and usually it’s the sclerotized parts and most conspicuous male phallic organs that are known to exhibit asymmetries. While external copulatory organs in insects have often been subject to investigations concerning asymmetries and the evolution thereof, internal reproductive structures have received far less attention. Here we describe the internal and external male genitalia in three species of Austrophasmatidae, Mantophasmatodea, using μ-CT imaging and light microscopy. Mantophasmatodea is the most recently discovered insect order, and with 21 species described to date, it is among the smallest insect orders currently known.

Results

We confirm that male heelwalkers exhibit asymmetries in the external genitalia and associated structures, represented by asymmetric phallic lobes and cerci. Moreover, we found an extreme asymmetry within the internal male genitalia: in all adult males investigated (N = 5), the seminal vesicle, a dilatation of the vas deferens, was only developed on the right side of the male while missing on the left side.

Conclusion

The false-male-above mating position exhibited by Mantophasmatodea and especially the long copulation duration of ca. 3 days might select for this unusual absence asymmetry of the left seminal vesicle. If this holds true for all heelwalker species, this absence asymmetry constitutes another autapomorphy for Austrophasmatidae or even the insect order Mantophasmatodea.
Prevention of trigeminocardiac reflex-induced severe bradycardia during cerebral aneurysm clipping surgery by topical anesthesia of the dura surface and atropine administration: a case report
Authors: Yoshida Akari , Seki Takafumi , Aratani Yuichi , Tanioku Tadashi , Kawamata Tomoyuki
Published: January 2022

Background

Trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR) by stimulation of the sensory branch of the trigeminal nerve induces transient bradycardia and hypotension. We report a case in which light mechanical stimulation to the dura mater during brain surgery induced severe bradycardia.

Case presentation

A 77-year-old woman with bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome was scheduled for clipping of an unruptured left middle cerebral artery aneurysm. General anesthesia was performed with propofol, remifentanil, and rocuronium. Before starting surgery, the function of the pyramidal tract was examined by motor evoked potential. Transcranial electric stimulation for motor evoked potential induced atrial fibrillation and tachycardia. Continuous administration of landiolol was started and verapamil was used for tachycardia. During detachment of the dura mater from the bone, an electrocardiogram suddenly showed sinus arrest for 6 s. Immediately after the manipulation was interrupted, a junctional rhythm appeared. However, light touch to the dura mater induced severe bradycardia again, and atropine was therefore administered. In addition, the dura surface was anesthetized with topical lidocaine infiltration. After that, light touch-induced bradycardia was prevented.

Conclusions

We experienced a case of severe bradycardia during surgery due to TCR caused by light mechanical stimulation to the dura mater. Topical anesthesia of the dura surface and atropine administration were effective for preventing TCR-induced bradycardia.
Antiviral activity of 5-aminolevulinic acid against variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
Authors: Ngwe Tun Mya Myat , Sakura Takaya , Sakurai Yasuteru , Kurosaki Yohei , Inaoka Daniel Ken , Shioda Norifumi , Yasuda Jiro , Kita Kiyoshi , Morita Kouichi
Published: January 2022

Background

Genetic variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) began to emerge in 2020 and have been spreading globally during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite the presence of different COVID-19 vaccines, the discovery of effective antiviral therapeutics for the treatment of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 are still urgently needed. A natural amino acid, 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), has exhibited both antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities. In a previous study, we demonstrated an in vitro antiviral effect of 5-ALA against SARS-CoV-2 infection without significant cytotoxicity. In the present study, we sought to investigate whether 5-ALA with or without sodium ferrous citrate (SFC) can inhibit in vitro both the original SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain and its variants, including the Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta strains.

Methods

The antiviral activity of ALA with or without SFC was determined in Vero-E6 cell. The virus inhibition was quantified by real time RT-PCR.

Results

Co-administration of 5-ALA and SFC inhibited the Wuhan, Alpha and Delta variants of SARS-CoV-2 with IC50values of 235, 173 and 397 µM, respectively, and the Beta and Gamma variants with IC50values of 1311 and 1516 µM.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that 5-ALA with SFC warrants accelerated clinical evaluation as an antiviral drug candidate for treating patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Loss-of-function mutation in Pcsk1 increases serum APOA1 level and LCAT activity in mice
Authors: Khan Aleksandra Aljakna , Kim Nakyung , Korstanje Ron , Choi Seungbum
Published: January 2022

Background

The convertase subtilisin/kexin family 1 gene (PCSK1) has been associated in various human genetics studies with a wide spectrum of metabolic phenotypes, including early-onset obesity, hyperphagia, diabetes insipidus, and others. Despite the evident influence of PCSK1 on obesity and the known functions of other PCSKs in lipid metabolism, the role of PCSK1 specifically in lipid and cholesterol metabolism remains unclear. This study evaluated the effect of loss of PCSK1 function on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) metabolism in mice.

Results

HDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1) levels in serum and liver, and the activities of two enzymes (lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase, LCAT and phospholipid transfer protein, PLTP) were evaluated in 8-week-old mice with a non-synonymous single nucleotide mutation leading to an amino acid substitution in PCSK1, which results in a loss of protein’s function. Mutant mice had similar serum HDL cholesterol concentration but increased levels of serum total and mature APOA1, and LCAT activity in comparison to controls.

Conclusions

This study presents the first evaluation of the role of PCSK1 in HDL metabolism using a loss-of-function mutant mouse model. Further investigations will be needed to determine the underlying molecular mechanism.
Randomized Trial of Radiotherapy Versus Transoral Robotic Surgery for Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Long-Term Results of the ORATOR Trial
Authors: Nichols Anthony C. , Theurer Julie , Prisman Eitan , Read Nancy , Berthelet Eric , Tran Eric , Fung Kevin , de Almeida John R. , Bayley Andrew , Goldstein David P. , Hier Michael , Sultanem Khalil , Richardson Keith , Mlynarek Alex , Krishnan Suren , Le Hien , Yoo John , MacNeil S. Danielle , Winquist Eric , Hammond J. Alex , Venkatesan Varagur , Kuruvilla Sara , Warner Andrew , Mitchell Sylvia , Chen Jeff , Corsten Martin , Johnson-Obaseki Stephanie , Odell Michael , Parker Christina , Wehrli Bret , Kwan Keith , Palma David A.
Published: January 2022

PURPOSE

The incidence of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has risen rapidly, because of an epidemic of human papillomavirus infection. The optimal management of early-stage OPSCC with surgery or radiation continues to be a clinical controversy. Long-term randomized data comparing these paradigms are lacking.

METHODS

We randomly assigned patients with T1-T2, N0-2 (≤ 4 cm) OPSCC to radiotherapy (RT) (with chemotherapy if N1-2) versus transoral robotic surgery plus neck dissection (TORS + ND) (with or without adjuvant therapy). The primary end point was swallowing quality of life (QOL) at 1-year using the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory. Secondary end points included adverse events, other QOL outcomes, overall survival, and progression-free survival. All analyses were intention-to-treat. Herein, we present long-term outcomes from the trial.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients were randomly assigned (n = 34 per arm) between August 10, 2012, and June 9, 2017. Median follow-up was 45 months. Longitudinal MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory analyses demonstrated statistical superiority of RT arm over time ( P = .049), although the differences beyond 1 year were of smaller magnitude than at the 1-year timepoint (year 2: 86.0 ± 13.5 in the RT arm v 84.8 ± 12.5 in the TORS + ND arm, P = .74; year 3: 88.9 ± 11.3 v 83.3 ± 13.9, P = .12). These differences did not meet the threshold to qualify as a clinically meaningful change at any timepoint. Certain differences in QOL concerns including more pain and dental concerns in the TORS + ND arm seen at 1 year resolved at 2 and 3 years; however, TORS patients started to use more nutritional supplements at 3 years ( P = .015). Dry mouth scores were higher in RT patients over time ( P = .041).

CONCLUSION

On longitudinal analysis, the swallowing QOL difference between primary RT and TORS + ND approaches persists but decreases over time. Patients with OPSCC should be informed about the pros and cons of both treatment options (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01590355 ).
Early Local Therapy for the Primary Site in De Novo Stage IV Breast Cancer: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial (E2108)
Authors: Khan Seema A. , Zhao Fengmin , Goldstein Lori J. , Cella David , Basik Mark , Golshan Mehra , Julian Thomas B. , Pockaj Barbara A. , Lee Christine A. , Razaq Wajeeha , Sparano Joseph A. , Babiera Gildy V. , Dy Irene A. , Jain Sarika , Silverman Paula , Fisher Carla S. , Tevaarwerk Amye J. , Wagner Lynne I. , Sledge George W.
Published: January 2022

PURPOSE

Distant metastases are present in 6% or more of patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer. In this context, locoregional therapy for the intact primary tumor has been hypothesized to improve overall survival (OS), but clinical trials have reported conflicting results.

METHODS

Women presenting with metastatic breast cancer and an intact primary tumor received systemic therapy for 4-8 months; if no disease progression occurred, they were randomly assigned to locoregional therapy for the primary site (surgery and radiotherapy per standards for nonmetastatic disease) or continuing sysmetic therapy. The primary end point was OS; locoregional control and quality of life were secondary end points. The trial design provided 85% power to detect a 19.3% absolute difference in the 3-year OS rate in randomly assigned patients. The stratified log-rank test and Cox proportional hazards model were used to compare OS between arms. Cumulative incidence of locoregional progression was compared using Gray's test. Quality-of-life assessment used standard instruments.

RESULTS

Of 390 participants enrolled, 256 were randomly assigned: 131 to continued systemic therapy and 125 to early locoregional therapy. The 3-year OS was 67.9% without and 68.4% with early locoregional therapy (hazard ratio = 1.11; 90% CI, 0.82 to 1.52; P = .57). The median OS was 53.1 months (95% CI, 47.9 to not estimable) in the systemic therapy arm and 54.9 months (95% CI, 46.7 to not estimable) in the locoregional therapy arm. Locoregional progression was less frequent in those randomly assigned to locoregional therapy (3-year rate: 16.3% v 39.8%; P < .001). Quality-of-life measures were largely similar between arms.

CONCLUSION

Early locoregional therapy for the primary site did not improve survival in patients presenting with metastatic breast cancer. Although it was associated with improved locoregional control, this had no overall impact on quality of life.
Demographic and Clinical Predictors of Engaging in Tobacco Cessation Counseling at a Comprehensive Cancer Center
Authors: Rodgers-Melnick Samuel N. , Zanotti Kristine , Lee Richard T. , Webb Hooper Monica
Published: January 2022

PURPOSE:

To address challenges promoting tobacco cessation in oncology settings, it is important to understand characteristics associated with patient engagement in tobacco cessation treatment. This analysis examined predictors of participating in at least one tobacco cessation counseling session among patients referred to a comprehensive cancer center's Tobacco Intervention and Psychosocial Support (TIPS) service.

METHODS:

Patients with cancer who reported current smoking or recently quitting and referred to TIPS between June 2017 and February 2020 were included in the analysis. Independent variables included sex, race and ethnicity, insurance type, cancer diagnosis (tobacco-related or not), age, nicotine dependence, and cigarettes smoked per day at baseline. The outcome variable was completion of at least one tobacco cessation counseling session among those assessed by the TIPS program. Unadjusted and adjusted analyses tested associations between the independent variables and tobacco cessation counseling engagement.

RESULTS:

Of 360 oncology patients referred to the TIPS program, 224 (62.2%) were assessed and 120 (33%) engaged in at least one counseling session. After controlling for sociodemographics and tobacco use, the results demonstrated that patients diagnosed with tobacco-related cancers were 45.3% less likely to engage in the tobacco cessation program compared with those with non–tobacco-related cancers ( P = .041).

CONCLUSION:

Patients diagnosed with tobacco-related cancers were less likely to engage in TIPS. Additional therapeutic resources may be needed to engage these patients to address potential explanatory factors, such as stigma, guilt, and fatalism. More research is needed to explore the impact of a tobacco-related cancer diagnosis on treatment engagement.
The Ontario and Hellenic kindergarten curricula
Authors: Καραγρηγορίου Ευστρατία
Published: January 2022

Η παγκοσμιοποίηση και οι νεοφιλελεύθερες πρακτικές έχουν επηρεάσει την εκπαίδευση στη σχολική τάξη με διάφορους τρόπους, ιδιαίτερα μέσω των αναλυτικών προγραμμάτων σπουδών. Το ενδιαφέρον για την πρωτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση και ειδικά για το νηπιαγωγείο, είναι έντονο τόσο από παγκόσμιους οργανισμούς, όπως είναι ο Οργανισμός Οικονομικής Συνεργασίας και Ανάπτυξης (ΟΟΣΑ) και ο Εκπαιδευτικός, Επιστημονικός και Πολιτιστικός Οργανισμός των Ηνωμένων Εθνών (UNESCO), από διεθνείς οργανισμούς, όπως η Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση, όσο και από κυβερνήσεις χωρών, όπως της ομοσπονδιακής κυβέρνησης του Καναδά, της επαρχιακής κυβέρνησης Οντάριο και των ελληνικών κυβερνήσεων. Αυτή η έρευνα διερευνά πώς η εκπαίδευση για τη δημοκρατική πολιτειότητα αντικατοπτρίζεται στα αναλυτικά προγράμματα σπουδών των νηπιαγωγείων του Οντάριο στον Καναδά και της Ελλάδος. Λόγω των αυξανόμενων ανησυχιών σχετικά με τη δημοκρατική πολιτειότητα, σε αυτή τη μελέτη, αναλύω και συγκρίνω τα αναλυτικά προγράμματα σπουδών για το νηπιαγωγείο του Οντάριο και της Ελλάδος ως προς την εκπαίδευση για τη δημοκρατική πολιτειότητα και πώς αυτή αντικατοπτρίζεται στα αντίστοιχα προγράμματα σπουδών τους. Επιπλέον, αναλύω συμπληρωματικές και υποστηρικτικές εκθέσεις, οδηγούς και άλλα εκπαιδευτικά έγγραφα σχετικά με την εκπαίδευση του δημοκρατικού πολίτη που δημοσιεύτηκαν από παγκόσμιους και διεθνείς οργανισμούς. Για να το πετύχω αυτό, χρησιμοποιώ μια κριτική παιδαγωγική οπτική μέσω της Κριτικής Ανάλυσης Λόγου. Επιπλέον, αναφέρονται σημαντικές ανησυχίες σχετικά με την εκπαίδευση του πολίτη στο νηπιαγωγείο και παρουσιάζονται προτάσεις για τα αναλυτικά προγράμματα σπουδών. Αυτή η μελέτη είναι σημαντική για τη διερεύνηση των τρόπων, με τους οποίους η εκπαίδευση για τη δημοκρατική πολιτειότητα αντικατοπτρίζεται στα προγράμματα σπουδών των νηπιαγωγείων του Οντάριο και της Ελλάδος, καθώς και την αποκάλυψη ομοιοτήτων και διαφορών τόσο μεταξύ τους, όσο και σε ένα παγκόσμιο πλαίσιο.
Το "Εθνικό Ζήτημα" στην ελληνική μαρξιστική ιστοριογραφία (1907-1959)
Authors: Παναγιωτίδης Σταύρος
Published: January 2022

Στην παρούσα διατριβή ερευνώνται οι μηχανισμοί μέσα από τους οποίους οι Έλληνες μαρξιστές ιστοριογράφοι της περιόδου 1907-1959 διαμόρφωσαν τις προσλήψεις τους για το εθνικό φαινόμενο στην Ελλάδα, με πυρήνα το κοινωνικό περιεχόμενο της επανάστασης του 1821. Κεντρικό ερώτημα είναι το ποιες αλλαγές γνωρίζουν αυτές οι προσλήψεις και πως επιδρούν σε αυτές α) οι σχετικές επεξεργασίες των κλασικών του μαρξισμού της Α΄ και της Β΄ Διεθνούςβ) οι τροποποιούμενοι τρόποι πρόσληψης των εργαλείων του μαρξισμούγ) οι συγκρούσεις στο εσωτερικό του παγκόσμιου κομμουνιστικού κινήματος και τα άμεσα πολιτικά και κοινωνικά επίδικα της Ελλάδας. Ως αρχής της περιόδου διερεύνησης ορίζεται το 1907, όταν ο Γεώργιος Σκληρός εκδίδει Το Κοινωνικόν μας Ζήτημα και ως όριο το 1957, όταν τελειώνει το ιστορικό έργο του Γιάνη Κορδάτου.Στο πρώτο κεφάλαιο διερευνάται ο ρόλος που έχει η μελέτη του εθνικού φαινομένου στο έργο των Καρλ Μαρξ και Φρήντριχ Ενγκελς και την μαρξική φιλοσοφία της ιστορίας. Συγκεκριμένα, εξετάζεται το κατά πόσο οι δύο κλασικοί είχαν διαμορφώσει μια διακριτή θεωρία για το φαινόμενο του έθνους ή το εξέταζαν στο πλαίσιο των άλλων επεξεργασιών τους, ως ένα δευτερογενές παράγωγο του καπιταλισμού και το προσέγγιζαν κυρίως με όρους πολιτικής τακτικής. Στο δεύτερο κεφάλαιο διερευνώνται οι τρόποι ερμηνείας του εθνικού φαινομένου από τους επιγόνους των Μαρξ και Ένγκελς, τους μαρξιστές διανοητές και πολιτικούς της Β΄ Διεθνούς, με άξονα το ότι οι τελευταίοι καλούνταν σε μεγάλο βαθμό να τοποθετηθούν για το εθνικό ζήτημα στη βάση ένοτνων πολιτικών διεργασιών και κινηματικών εξελίξεων που συντελούνταν στο εσωτερικό των κρατών τους, με αποτέλεσμα να αναπτυχθούν στο εσωτερικό του σοσιαλιστικού κινήματος συγκρουόμενες οπτικές. Στο τρίτο κεφάλαιο διερευνώνται οι προσεγγίσεις των Ελλήνων μαρξιστών για το φαινόμενο του έθνους, με άξονα κυρίως την επανάσταση του 1821. Με βάση τα προηγούμενα, εντοπίζεται ο βαθμός στον οποίο έχουν επιδράσει σε αυτές τις προσεγγίσεις οι αναλύσεις των κλασικών του μαρξισμού για το έθνος και για την εξέλιξη των ιστορικών σταδίων. Επίσης, εξετάζοντας την ευρύτερη πολιτική και κοινωνική συγκυρία και ειδικά το κομβικό γεγονός της Κατοχής και της Εθνικής Αντίστασης, εντοπίζονται και οι επιδράσεις που αυτές ασκούν.
The initiation of electric arcs and the possible impact in industrial environments
Authors: Κουτούλα Σωτηρία
Published: January 2022

Ο κύριος σκοπός της παρούσας διατριβής είναι η διεύρυνση της γνώσης και της κατανόησης του μεγέθους των συνεπειών λόγω των φωτοθερμικών εκλύσεων και του ωστικού κύματος που εμφανίζονται κατά τη διάρκεια του ηλεκτρικού τόξου μέσω πειραμάτων, μοντελοποίησης και ανάλυσης. Προς την επίτευξη αυτού, αρχικά, σημαντικό βάρος δόθηκε στην ανάλυση προϋπαρχόντων δεδομένων που αφορούν τις συνέπειές του και τις πρακτικές που εφαρμόζονται από μηχανικούς για τη μείωση του μεγέθους των συνεπειών σε βιομηχανικά περιβάλλοντα. Στη συνέχεια, παρουσιάζεται ο κύριος κορμός της έρευνας που αποτελείται από την πειραματική έρευνα που εκτελέστηκε για την διερεύνηση των χαρακτηριστικών του ηλεκτρικού τόξου και εν συνεχεία η πρόταση ενός αναλυτικού μοντέλου που αναπτύχθηκε για την ποσοτικοποίηση των επιμέρους εκλυόμενων ενεργειών. Τα ηλεκτρικά χαρακτηριστικά του αρχικού σταδίου ανάπτυξης του ηλεκτρικού τόξου αποκτήθηκαν πειραματικά μέσω διαφόρων συστημάτων που αναπτύχθηκαν κατά την διάρκεια της παρούσας μελέτης. Δύο μηχανισμοί έναρξης του τόξου διερευνήθηκαν: έναρξη εκκένωσης σε διάκενο σπινθήρα (self-breakdown spark gap: SBSG) και έναρξη εκκένωσης σε διάκενο σπινθήρα υποκινούμενη από το βραχυκύκλωμα της ανόδου με την κάθοδο λόγω παρουσίας σύρματος (wire-guided spark gap: WGSG). Αναπτύχθηκαν επίσης τεχνικές επεξεργασίας των πειραματικών δεδομένων για την απόκτηση των κυματομορφών της τάσης και της έντασης του ηλεκτρικού τόξου ούτως ώστε να υπολογιστεί η ηλεκτρική ενέργεια που βρίσκεται διαθέσιμη στην εκκένωση. Το αναλυτικό μοντέλο που έχει προταθεί βασίστηκε σε μια υδροδυναμική προσέγγιση για την περαιτέρω ανάλυση της εκλυόμενης ενέργειας σε επιμέρους που είναι η θερμική, η ακουστική-κινητική και η ενέργεια λόγω έκλυσης φωτός. Αυτή η ανάλυση των επιμέρους ενεργειών προσφέρει δεδομένα χρήσιμα για ζητήματα ασφαλείας, οι οποίες επιμέρους ενέργειες δεν λαμβάνονται υπόψιν επί του παρόντος στα υπάρχοντα πρότυπα. Επίσης, έχει εκπονηθεί η ανάλυση και η αξιολόγηση της καταλληλότητας των μοντέλων τύπου μαύρου κουτιού για την πρόβλεψη των χαρακτηριστικών του τόξου κατά την έναρξή του λαμβάνοντας υπόψιν το ηλεκτρικό κύκλωμα. Οι αρχικές συνθήκες για την ανάλυση του λόγου της έντασης προς την τάση του ηλεκτρικού τόξου εξήχθησαν από τις κυματομορφές που προέκυψαν από τα πειράματα για την διερεύνηση της αλληλεπίδρασης κυκλώματος-ηλεκτρικού τόξου. Αυτό μπορεί να θεωρηθεί ως ένα πρώτο βήμα προς τη δημιουργία μιας ακριβούς σύνδεσης μεταξύ των εκδηλώσεων των φωτοθερμικών εκλύσεων και του ωστικού κύματος του ηλεκτρικού τόξου σε επίπεδο μικροκλίμακας με την έντονη λάμψη και την έκρηξη που παρουσιάζεται στη μακροκλίμακα. Αναμένεται πως η περαιτέρω κατανόηση των περίπλοκων διεργασιών μετατροπής ενέργειας που εκτυλίσσονται μετά την έναρξη του ηλεκτρικού τόξου μπορεί να προσφέρει παραπάνω εργαλεία για την ποσοτικοποίηση των επιμέρους ενεργειών του τόξου και τη βελτίωση των μέσων προστασίας κατά κατά των συνεπειών λόγω του ηλεκτρικού τόξου και της έκρηξης λόγω αυτού.
A discrete event simulation-based methodology for building a digital twin of patient pathways in the hospital for near real-time monitoring and predictive simulation
Authors: Karakra Abdallah , Fontanili Franck , Lamine Elyes , Lamothe Jacques
Published: January 2022

Background: Discrete Event Simulation (DES) is one of the many tools and methods used in the analysis and improvement of healthcare services. Indeed, DES provides perhaps the most powerful and intuitive method for analyzing, evaluating, and improving complex healthcare systems. This paper highlights the process of developing a Digital Twin (DT) framework based on online DES to run the DES model in parallel with the real world in real-time.

Methods: This paper suggests a new methodology that uses DES connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) devices to build a DT platform of patient pathways in a hospital for near real-time monitoring and predictive simulation. An experimental platform that mimics the behavior of a hospital has been used to validate this methodology.

Results: The application of the proposed methodology allowed us to test the monitoring functionality in the DT. Therefore, we noticed that the DT behaves exactly as the emulator does in near real-time, we also tested the prediction functionality and we noticed that the DT provides us with a proactive overview for the near future of the patient pathways. The predictive functionality of this DT must be improved depending on the various reasons mentioned in this article.

Conclusions: This paper presents a new methodology called HospiT'Win that uses DES and IoT devices to develop a DT of patient pathways in hospitals. This DT consists of two real-time models, a DT for Monitoring (DTM) and a DT for Predicting (DTP). An experimental platform with an emulator of a real hospital was used to validate this methodology before connecting to the real hospital. In the DTP, "dynamic" empirical distributions were used to perform a predictive simulation for the near future. In future research, some additional features and machine learning algorithms will be used to improve the proposed DT models.
Smartic: A smart tool for Big Data analytics and IoT
Authors: Sayeed Shohel , Ahmad Abu Fuad , Peng Tan Choo
Published: January 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) is leading the physical and digital world of technology to converge. Real-time and massive scale connections produce a large amount of versatile data, where Big Data comes into the picture. Big Data refers to large, diverse sets of information with dimensions that go beyond the capabilities of widely used database management systems, or standard data processing software tools to manage within a given limit. Almost every big dataset is dirty and may contain missing data, mistyping, inaccuracies, and many more issues that impact Big Data analytics performances. One of the biggest challenges in Big Data analytics is to discover and repair dirty data; failure to do this can lead to inaccurate analytics results and unpredictable conclusions. We experimented with different missing value imputation techniques and compared machine learning (ML) model performances with different imputation methods. We propose a hybrid model for missing value imputation combining ML and sample-based statistical techniques. Furthermore, we continued with the best missing value inputted dataset, chosen based on ML model performance for feature engineering and hyperparameter tuning. We used k-means clustering and principal component analysis. Accuracy, the evaluated outcome, improved dramatically and proved that the XGBoost model gives very high accuracy at around 0.125 root mean squared logarithmic error (RMSLE). To overcome overfitting, we used K-fold cross-validation.
A comparison of the World Health Organisation's HEAT model results using a non-linear physical activity dose response function with results from the existing tool
Authors: Smith Robert , Thomas Chloe , Squires Hazel , Goyder Elizabeth
Published: January 2022

IntroductionThe WHO-Europe’s Health Economic Assessment Tool is a tool used to estimatethe costs and benefits of changes in walking and cycling. Due to data limitationsthe tool’s physical activity module assumes a linear dose response relationship be-tween physical activity and mortality.MethodsThis study estimates baseline population physical activity distributions for 44 coun-tries included in the HEAT. It then compares, for three different scenarios, the re-sults generated by the current method, using a linear dose-response relationship,with results generated using a non-linear dose-response relationship.ResultsThe study finds that estimated deaths averted are relatively higher (lower) using thenon-linear effect in countries with less (more) active populations. This difference islargest for interventions which affect the activity levels of the least active the most.Since more active populations, e.g. in Eastern Europe, also tend to have lowerValue of a Statistical Life estimates the net monetary benefit estimated by the sce-narios are much higher in western-Europe than eastern-Europe.ConclusionsUsing a non-linear dose response function results in materially different estimateswhere populations are particularly inactive or particularly active. Estimating base-line distributions is possible with limited additional data requirements, although themethod has yet to be validated. Given the significant role of the physical activitymodule within the HEAT tool it is likely that in the evaluation of many interventionsthe monetary benefit estimates will be sensitive to the choice of the physical activitydose response function.