bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning from the COVID-19 Pandemic and AKI Evolution for Extracorporeal and Adsorption Techniques in Kidney Replacement Therapy
Authors: Raina Rupesh , Singh Siddhartha , Enukonda Vignasiddh , Pandher Davinder , Abboud Brian , Bhola Vishnu , Bagga Sumedha , Zehrer Tara , Desmett Ashley
Published: August 2022

Increased mortality has been observed in patients who develop acute kidney injury (AKI) in the setting of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has led to the approval of extracorporeal kidney support by the FDA. We analyzed the existing literature to compare the efficacy and therapeutic benefits of various extracorporeal modalities for the oXiris membranes and CytoSorb cartridge in high-flow continuous kidney replacement therapy (HFCKRT). AKI due to COVID-19 is mediated by a state of systemic inflammation (cytokine storm syndrome), leading to multiple organ dysfunction. Although there is no consensus on a protocol for providing kidney support therapy, clinically oriented studies have shown the capacities of oXiris and CytoSorb filters to effectively filter out pro-inflammatory components, leading to improved clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. In this review, we study the development of cytokine storm syndrome, important clinical evidence regarding the roles of various adsorption techniques in kidney support therapy in this setting, and a protocol influenced by FDA recommendations for oXiris and CytoSorb membranes.
Niche Breadth Predicts Geographical Range Size and Northern Range Shift in European Dragonfly Species (Odonata)
Authors: Olsen Kent , Svenning Jens-Christian , Balslev Henrik
Published: August 2022

We studied how range sizes and shifts in species ranges depend on niche breadth in European dragonflies. We measured range sizes and shifts over a 22-year period (1988–2010) and grouped species into those reproducing in permanent running (perennial lotic) water, permanent standing (perennial lentic) water, and temporary (running or standing) water. Running water species are more specialized and have narrower niches with a more fixed niche position than standing water species. Temporary water species are more generalist and have broader niches without a fixed niche position as clear as permanent water species because they may utilize both temporary and permanent habitats. Running water species have smaller ranges, and some of them have contracted their ranges more than species reproducing in standing or temporary waters; that is, they are especially at risk of habitat loss and climate change because of the joint effects of their narrow niches and small range sizes. Temporary water species track climate changes better than permanent water species. This suggests that ecological specialization may cause contemporary range shifts to lag behind changes in climate and resources. Furthermore, it indicates that recent changes in climate and human land use cause biotic homogenization, where specialists are outperformed and replaced by generalists.
On an Affordable Approach towards the Diagnosis and Care for Prostate Cancer Patients Using Urine, FTIR and Prediction Machines
Authors: Nsugbe Ejay , Ser Hooi-Leng , Ong Huey-Fang , Ming Long Chiau , Goh Khang-Wen , Goh Bey-Hing , Lee Wai-Leng
Published: August 2022

Prostate cancer is a widespread form of cancer that affects patients globally and is challenging to diagnose, especially in its early stages. The common means of diagnosing cancer involve mostly invasive methods, such as the use of patient’s blood as well as digital biopsies, which are relatively expensive and require a considerable amount of expertise. Studies have shown that various cancer biomarkers can be present in urine samples from patients who have prostate cancers; this paper aimed to leverage this information and investigate this further by using urine samples from a group of patients alongside FTIR analysis for the prediction of prostate cancer. This investigation was carried out using three sets of data where all spectra were preprocessed with the linear series decomposition learner (LSDL) and post-processed using signal processing methods alongside a contrast across nine machine-learning models, the results of which showcased that the proposed modeling approach carries potential to be used for clinical prediction of prostate cancer. This would allow for a much more affordable and high-throughput means for active prediction and associated care for patients with prostate cancer. Further investigations on the prediction of cancer stage (i.e., early or late stage) were carried out, where high prediction accuracy was obtained across the various metrics that were investigated, further showing the promise and capability of urine sample analysis alongside the proposed and presented modeling approaches.
Freely Available, Fully Automated AI-Based Analysis of Primary Tumour and Metastases of Prostate Cancer in Whole-Body [18F]-PSMA-1007 PET-CT
Authors: Trägårdh Elin , Enqvist Olof , Ulén Johannes , Jögi Jonas , Bitzén Ulrika , Hedeer Fredrik , Valind Kristian , Garpered Sabine , Hvittfeldt Erland , Borrelli Pablo , Edenbrandt Lars
Published: August 2022

Here, we aimed to develop and validate a fully automated artificial intelligence (AI)-based method for the detection and quantification of suspected prostate tumour/local recurrence, lymph node metastases, and bone metastases from [18F]PSMA-1007 positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) images. Images from 660 patients were included. Segmentations by one expert reader were ground truth. A convolutional neural network (CNN) was developed and trained on a training set, and the performance was tested on a separate test set of 120 patients. The AI method was compared with manual segmentations performed by several nuclear medicine physicians. Assessment of tumour burden (total lesion volume (TLV) and total lesion uptake (TLU)) was performed. The sensitivity of the AI method was, on average, 79% for detecting prostate tumour/recurrence, 79% for lymph node metastases, and 62% for bone metastases. On average, nuclear medicine physicians’ corresponding sensitivities were 78%, 78%, and 59%, respectively. The correlations of TLV and TLU between AI and nuclear medicine physicians were all statistically significant and ranged from R = 0.53 to R = 0.83. In conclusion, the development of an AI-based method for prostate cancer detection with sensitivity on par with nuclear medicine physicians was possible. The developed AI tool is freely available for researchers.
Evaluation of Enamel Acid Resistance and Whitening Effect of the CAP System
Authors: Miki Naoko , Miake Yasuo , Shimoda Shinji , Mishima Hiroyuki
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a novel professional tooth-strengthening system and a conventional caries-prevention method that involved the use of high fluoride concentrations, to determine whether the system has a whitening effect. Bovine tooth-enamel samples were treated with fluoride gel (conventional APF method) or a mixture of citric acid gel, calcium phosphate (α-TCP), and fluoride gel, referred to as the CAP system; these treatments were performed to generate an acid-resistant layer on the enamel surface. For the evaluation of the acid resistance, a cyclic experiment, involving a 1-h remineralization and a 24-h acid treatment, was conducted thrice after the treatments. The height profiles were observed using a 3D-measuring laser microscope and the hardness was evaluated by Vickers hardness test. The morphological changes in the surface and cross-section of the enamel were observed by scanning electron microscopy. To evaluate the whitening effect, the enamel was ground until the color of the underlying dentin was recognizable; the CAP system was applied once, and the color change was measured using a color difference meter. As a result, it was confirmed that an acid-resistant layer was formed on the tooth surfaces treated with the CAP system, and a whitening effect was obtained.
USV Dynamic Accurate Obstacle Avoidance Based on Improved Velocity Obstacle Method
Authors: Wang Jia , Wang Rongtao , Lu Daohua , Zhou Hao , Tao Tianyi
Published: August 2022

Unmanned surface vehicle (USV) path planning is a crucial technology for achieving USV autonomous navigation. Under global path planning, dynamic local obstacle avoidance has become the primary focus for safe USV navigation. In this study, a USV autonomous dynamic obstacle avoidance method based on the enhanced velocity obstacle method is proposed in order to achieve path replanning. Through further analysis of obstacles, the obstacle geometric model set in the conventional velocity obstacle method was redefined. A special triangular obstacle geometric model was proposed to reconstruct the velocity obstacle region. The collision time was predicted by fitting the previously gathered data to the detected obstacle’s distance, azimuth, and other relevant data. Then, it is combined with the collision risk to determine when obstacle avoidance should begin and end. In order to ensure safe driving between path points, the international maritime collision avoidance rules (COLREGs) are incorporated to ensure the accuracy of obstacle avoidance. Finally, through numerical simulations of various collision scenarios, it was determined that, under the assumption of ensuring a safe encounter distance, the maximum change rates of USV heading angle are optimized by 17.54%, 58.16%, and 28.63% when crossing, head-on, and overtaking, respectively. The results indicate that, by optimizing the heading angle, the enhanced velocity obstacle method can avoid the risk of ship rollover caused by an excessive heading angle during high-speed movement and achieve more accurate obstacle avoidance action in the event of a safety encounter.
Dynamic Response and Energy Absorption Characteristics of a Three-Dimensional Re-Entrant Honeycomb
Authors: Zhang Jun , Shi Boqiang , Han Tian
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we design a new three-dimensional honeycomb with a negative Poisson’s ratio. A honeycomb cell was first designed by out-of-plane stretching a re-entrant honeycomb and the honeycomb is built by spatially combining the cells. The in-plane response and energy absorption characteristics of the honeycomb are studied through the finite element method (FEM). Some important characteristics are studied and listed as follows: (1) The effects of cell angle and impact velocity on the dynamic response are tested. The results show that the honeycomb exhibits an obvious negative Poisson’s ratio and unique platform stress enhancement effect under the conditions of low and medium velocity. An obvious necking phenomenon appears when the cell angle parameter is 75°. (2) Based on the one-dimensional shock wave theory, the empirical formula of the platform stress is proposed to predict the dynamic bearing capacity of the honeycomb. (3) The energy absorption in different conditions are investigated. Results show that as the impact velocity increases, the energy absorption efficiency gradually decreases. In addition, with the increase of cell angle, the energy absorption efficiency is gradually improved. The above study shows that the honeycomb has good potential in using in vehicle industry as an energy absorption material. It also provides a new strategy for multi-objective optimization of mechanical structure design.
Design of a Flat-Panel Metasurface Reflectarray C-Band Antenna
Authors: Kim Gyoungdeuk , Hwang Myeongha , Jeong Hyunmin , Lim Chul-Min , Park Kyoung Youl , Kim Sangkil
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the design of a flat-panel metasurface reflectarray antenna fed by a circular horn antenna for satellite applications. A metasurface-based reflectarray antenna is similar to a flat-panel reflector and is characterized by a reflection angle adjustment that is free from the well-known Snell’s law. This was done by compensating the angle of the incident wave using the structure of each unit cell. A unit cell of the designed metasurface is composed of a dual-ring resonator. Many satellites use a reflectarray antenna due to its flat-panel structure and the capability of steering the reflection angle of the incident wave. This paper presents the detailed design procedure using a commercial 3D EM simulator and the operation principle of the flat-panel metasurface reflectarray antenna, including the simulation setup, design environment and automation. The proposed design method is scalable to any EM solvers for numerical analysis. A reflectarray composed of a 16 × 16-unit cell array at 5.8 GHz (C-band) was designed and validated by measurement as a proof of concept. It is excited by a low-cost linearly polarized circular horn cantenna. The measured antenna gain and radiation patterns show good agreement with the simulation. The measured antenna gain of the reflectarray was 22.4 dBi (cross-pol suppression level: 36 dB), and the reflection angle was 15° at normal incidence.
An Improved Spread-Spectrum Technique for Reduction of Electromagnetic Emissions of Wireless Power Transfer Systems
Authors: Stepins Deniss , Shah Dhruv Deveshkumar , Sokolovs Aleksandrs , Zakis Janis
Published: August 2022

The application of conventional spread spectrum techniques for conducted electromagnetic emission (EME) reduction in inductive-resonant wireless power transfer (WPT) systems may not reduce conducted EME enough due to specific frequency characteristics of the resonant systems and it can lead to some “adverse effects”, mainly in terms of decreased efficiency. Therefore, in this paper, an improved spread spectrum approach, multi-switching frequency and multi-duty cycle (MFMD) technique, is proposed. The proposed approach can give a considerably better conducted EME reduction along with a better efficiency than the conventional spread spectrum techniques based on a multi-switching frequency scheme. In the proposed approach, the inductive-resonant WPT system can operate at multiple switching frequencies (e.g., three different frequencies) and for a part of a control signal with a specific switching frequency, there is a specific duty cycle. The technique can be implemented in a simple way using an inexpensive 8-bit microcontroller. The effect of the MFMD scheme on the conducted EME and efficiency of the WPT system is studied in detail. The WPT system conducted EME and the efficiency are studied experimentally with a designed laboratory prototype. The performance characteristics of the WPT system with the MFMD scheme are compared to those with the multi-switching frequency scheme and without the spread spectrum. The WPT system with the proposed spread spectrum technique has a better performance than that with the conventional spread spectrum technique.
Addressing the Effectiveness of DDoS-Attack Detection Methods Based on the Clustering Method Using an Ensemble Method
Authors: Zeinalpour Alireza , Ahmed Hassan A.
Published: August 2022

The curse of dimensionality, due to lots of network-traffic attributes, has a negative impact on machine learning algorithms in detecting distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. This study investigated whether adding the filter and wrapper methods, preceded by combined clustering algorithms using the Vote classifier method, was effective in lowering the false-positive rates of DDoS-attack detection methods. We examined this process to address the curse of dimensionality of machine learning algorithms in detecting DDoS attacks. The results of this study, using ANOVA statistical analyses, showed that incorporating the wrapper method had superior performance in comparison with the filter and clustering methods. IT professionals aim at incorporating effective DDoS-attack detection methods to detect attacks. Therefore, the contribution of this study is that incorporating the wrapper method is the most suitable option for organizations to detect attacks as illustrated in this study. Subsequently, IT professionals could incorporate the DDoS-attack detection methods that, in this study, produced the lowest false-positive rate (0.012) in comparison with all the other mentioned studies.
Eco-Friendly Edible Packaging Systems Based on Live-Lactobacillus kefiri MM5 for the Control of Listeria monocytogenes in Fresh Vegetables
Authors: Iseppi Ramona , Zurlini Chiara , Cigognini Ilaria Maria , Cannavacciuolo Mariarosaria , Sabia Carla , Messi Patrizia
Published: August 2022

To meet consumer requirements for high quality food free of chemical additives, according to the principles of sustainability and respect for the environment, new “green” packaging solutions have been explored. The antibacterial activity of edible bioactive films and coatings, based on biomolecules from processing by-products and biomasses, added with the bacteriocin producer Lactobacillus kefiri MM5, has been determined in vegetables against L. monocytogenes NCTC 10888 (i) “in vitro” by a modified agar diffusion assay and (ii) “on food” during storage of artificially contaminated raw vegetable samples, after application of active films and coatings. Both polysaccharides-based and proteins-based films and coatings showed excellent antilisterial activity, especially at 10 and 20 days. Protein-based films displayed a strong activity against L. monocytogenes in carrots and zucchini samples (p < 0.0001). After 10 days, both polysaccharide-based and protein-based films demonstrated more enhanced activity than coatings towards the pathogen. These edible active packagings containing live probiotics can be used both to preserve the safety of fresh vegetables and to deliver a beneficial probiotic bacterial strain. The edible ingredients used for the formulation of both films and coatings are easily available, at low cost and environmental impact.
Bi-Univalent Problems Involving Generalized Multiplier Transform with Respect to Symmetric and Conjugate Points
Authors: Hamzat Jamiu , Oluwayemi Matthew , Alb Lupaş Alina , Wanas Abbas
Published: August 2022

In the present article, using the subordination principle, the authors employed certain generalized multiplier transform to define two new subclasses of analytic functions with respect to symmetric and conjugate points. In particular, bi-univalent conditions for function f(z) belonging to these new subclasses and their relevant connections to the famous Fekete-Szegö inequality |a3−va22| were investigated using a succinct mathematical approach.
Fractal Characteristics of Deep Shales in Southern China by Small-Angle Neutron Scattering and Low-Pressure Nitrogen Adsorption
Authors: Zhan Hongming , Li Xizhe , Hu Zhiming , Duan Xianggang , Wu Wei , Guo Wei , Lin Wei
Published: August 2022

The occurrence and flow of shale gas are substantially impacted by nanopore structures. The fractal dimension provides a new way to explore the pore structures of shale reservoirs. In this study, eight deep shale samples from Longmaxi Formation to Wufeng Formation in Southern Sichuan were selected to perform a series of analysis tests, which consisted of small-angle neutron scattering, low-pressure nitrogen adsorption, XRD diffraction, and large-scale scanning electron microscopy splicing. The elements that influence the shale fractal dimension were discussed from two levels of mineral composition and pore structures, and the relationship between the mass fractal dimension and surface fractal dimension was focused on during a comparative analysis. The results revealed that the deep shale samples both had mass fractal characteristics and surface fractal characteristics. The mass fractal dimension ranged from 2.499 to 2.991, whereas the surface fractal dimension ranged from 2.814 to 2.831. The mass fractal dimension was negatively correlated with the surface fractal dimension. The mass fractal dimension and the surface fractal dimension are controlled by organic matter pores, and their development degree significantly affects the fractal dimension. The mass fractal dimension increases with the decrease of a specific surface area and pore volume and increases with the increase of the average pore diameter. The permeability and surface fractal dimension are negatively correlated, but no significant correlation exists between the permeability and mass fractal dimension, and the internal reason is the dual control effect of organic matter on shale pores. This study comprehensively analyses the mass fractal characteristics and surface fractal characteristics, which helps in a better understanding of the pore structure and development characteristics of shale gas reservoirs.
The Structure of Gamma Ray Burst Jets
Authors: Salafia Om Sharan , Ghirlanda Giancarlo
Published: August 2022

Due to relativistic bulk motion, the structure and orientation of gamma-ray burst (GRB) jets have a fundamental role in determining how they appear. The recent discovery of the GW170817 binary neutron star merger and the associated GRB boosted the interest in the modeling and search for signatures of the presence of a (possibly quasi-universal) jet structure in long and short GRBs. In this review, following a pedagogical approach, we summarize the history of GRB jet structure research over the last two decades, from the inception of the idea of a universal jet structure to the current understanding of the complex processes that shape the structure, which involves the central engine that powers the jet and the interaction of the latter with the progenitor vestige. We put some emphasis on the observable imprints of jet structure on prompt and afterglow emission and on the luminosity function, favoring intuitive reasoning over technical explanations.
Effects of Modified-Otago Exercise Program on Four Components of Actual Balance and Perceived Balance in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Khumpaneid Nichapa , Phoka Theerapat , Khongprasert Surasa
Published: August 2022

Falls are a serious problem for older adults, leading to adverse injuries and decreased quality of life. Balance impairment is a key factor in falls. The Otago Exercise Program (OEP) is a promising intervention for preventing falls, thereby improving balance and gait. Previous studies reported improved effects on balance using the OEP conducted in a group setting, and recommended additional walking. Walking is a feasible exercise that benefits both fall-related physical and physiological functions. This study aims to investigate the effects of a modified-Otago Exercise Program (modified-OEP) on four components of actual balance (static, dynamic, proactive, and reactive balance) and perceived balance in healthy older adults, by conducting the modified-OEP in a groupsetting, and including additional walking in one session to gain better efficacy. Participants aged 60–85 years old were randomly assigned to the modified-OEP group or the control group (CT). The modified-OEP consisted of 60 min sessions made up of 30 min of OEP and 30 min of walking, three times a week for 12 weeks, while no intervention was assigned to the control group. The modified-OEP group showed significant improvement in the four components of actual balance and in perceived balance. Furthermore, the modified-OEP group outperformed the control group in all parameters except for dynamic balance, after 12 weeks. The present study highlights the beneficial effects of a modified-OEP on all balance components. Additionally, this study is the first to demonstrate the measurement of all actual balance components as well as perceived balance.
Endodontic Clinical Diagnostic Skills amongst Undergraduate Dental Students: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alobaoid Mohammed A , Aldowah Omir , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali
Published: August 2022

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the clinical endodontic diagnostic skills amongst undergraduate dental students at pre-clinical and clinical levels at Cardiff University School of Dentistry. An online questionnaire containing eight questions about endodontic diagnosis and hypothetical clinical scenarios was sent to all year 3rd, 4th, and 5th-year undergraduate dental students who were divided into G1, G2, and G3 groups. The data were analysed descriptively and reported in percentages. Around 121 students out of 226 responded to the questionnaire with a response rate of 53.5%. The overall correct response from G1 (3rd year) was 31.6% to 65.8%, G2 (4th year) was 73% to 93%, and G3 (5th year) was 73.2% to 92.7%. The study concludes that the 4th and 5th-year undergraduate dental students’ responses to the hypothetical clinical scenarios were higher than the 3rd-year students. However, regarding questions about the endodontic diagnosis, the percentages of correct answers were similar among all the 3rd, 4th, and 5th-year students. Therefore, further studies assessing endodontic diagnostic skills amongst the same cohort of students during their progression in the undergraduate course are recommended.
Complete Chloroplast Genome Sequence of Rosa lucieae and Its Characteristics
Authors: Shen Weixiang , Dong Zhanghong , Zhao Wenzhi , Ma Luyao , Wang Fei , Li Weiying , Xin Peiyao
Published: August 2022

Rosa lucieae is one of the famous wild ancestors of cultivated roses and plays a very important role in horticultural research, but there is still a lack of research on the R. lucieae chloroplast genome. In this study, we used the Illumina MiSeq platform for sequencing, assembly, and annotation to obtain the R. lucieae chloroplast genome sequencing information and compared genomics, selection stress analysis, and phylogenetic analysis with 12 other chloroplast genomes of Rosa. The R. lucieae cpDNA sequence has a total length of 156,504 bp, and 130 genes are annotated. The length of all 13 studied chloroplast genomes is 156,333~157,385 bp. Their gene content, gene sequence, GC content, and IR boundary structure were highly similar. Five kinds of large repeats were detected that numbered 100~116, and SSR sequences ranged from 78 to 90 bp. Four highly differentiated regions were identified, which can be used as potential genetic markers for Rosa. Selection stress analysis showed that there was significant positive selection among the 18 genes. The phylogenetic analysis of R. lucieae and R. cymose, R. maximowicziana, R. multiflora, and R. pricei showed the closest relationship. Overall, our results provide a more comprehensive understanding of the systematic genomics and comparative genomics of Rosa.
Key Strategic Decisions and Their Influences on the Management and Success of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and the Marathon Valencia Trinidad Alfonso
Authors: Paramio-Salcines Juan L. , Llopis-Goig Ramón
Published: August 2022

City marathons have evolved and grown exponentially in type and popularity, in their managerial complexity, and in terms of their financial impact on their host cities and the attraction of corporate sponsors. Most of the research on city marathons has focused on evaluating their broad economic, urban, tourist, social, sporting, and symbolic effects on host cities. However, less attention has been paid to analyzing key strategic decisions that could account for the evolution and growth of specific marathons and their influences on their management and success. This article, which addresses the cases of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and the Marathon Valencia Trinidad Alfonso, examines those key strategic decisions that have been taken from their inaugural first editions to present and how effective they have been as regards the management and success of both races. Results show that the international success of both events –in terms of sporting participation, performance, and economic impact– is closely related to critical key decisions taken to improve the design and management of the event; the synergies between the political, business and sporting spheres that the organizational leadership of both races has favored their implementation and, as a consequence, the support received from sponsors. This factor has not only provided both races with financial stability, but it has also contributed to improving how both marathons are managed.
Heri-Graphs: A Dataset Creation Framework for Multi-Modal Machine Learning on Graphs of Heritage Values and Attributes with Social Media
Authors: Bai Nan , Nourian Pirouz , Luo Renqian , Pereira Roders Ana
Published: August 2022

Values (why to conserve) and Attributes (what to conserve) are essential concepts of cultural heritage. Recent studies have been using social media to map values and attributes conveyed by the public to cultural heritage. However, it is rare to connect heterogeneous modalities of images, texts, geo-locations, timestamps, and social network structures to mine the semantic and structural characteristics therein. This study presents a methodological framework for constructing such multi-modal datasets using posts and images on Flickr for graph-based machine learning (ML) tasks concerning heritage values and attributes. After data pre-processing using pre-trained ML models, the multi-modal information of visual contents and textual semantics are modelled as node features and labels, while their social relationships and spatio-temporal contexts are modelled as links in Multi-Graphs. The framework is tested in three cities containing UNESCO World Heritage properties—Amsterdam, Suzhou, and Venice— which yielded datasets with high consistency for semi-supervised learning tasks. The entire process is formally described with mathematical notations, ready to be applied in provisional tasks both as ML problems with technical relevance and as urban/heritage study questions with societal interests. This study could also benefit the understanding and mapping of heritage values and attributes for future research in global cases, aiming at inclusive heritage management practices. Moreover, the proposed framework could be summarized as creating attributed graphs from unstructured social media data sources, ready to be applied in a wide range of use cases.
Microsatellite Variation in the Most Devastating Beetle Pests (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) of Agricultural and Forest Crops
Authors: Manee Manee M. , Al-Shomrani Badr M. , Altammami Musaad A. , El-Shafie Hamadttu A. F. , Alsayah Atheer A. , Alhoshani Fahad M. , Alqahtani Fahad H.
Published: August 2022

Weevils, classified in the family Curculionidae (true weevils), constitute a group of phytophagous insects of which many species are considered significant pests of crops. Within this family, the red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, has an integral role in destroying crops and has invaded all countries of the Middle East and many in North Africa, Southern Europe, Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Caribbean Islands. Simple sequence repeats (SSRs), also termed microsatellites, have become the DNA marker technology most applied to study population structure, evolution, and genetic diversity. Although these markers have been widely examined in many mammalian and plant species, and draft genome assemblies are available for many species of true weevils, very little is yet known about SSRs in weevil genomes. Here we carried out a comparative analysis examining and comparing the relative abundance, relative density, and GC content of SSRs in previously sequenced draft genomes of nine true weevils, with an emphasis on R. ferrugineus. We also used Illumina paired-end sequencing to generate draft sequence for adult female RPW and characterized it in terms of perfect SSRs with 1–6 bp nucleotide motifs. Among weevil genomes, mono- to trinucleotide SSRs were the most frequent, and mono-, di-, and hexanucleotide SSRs exhibited the highest GC content. In these draft genomes, SSR number and genome size were significantly correlated. This work will aid our understanding of the genome architecture and evolution of Curculionidae weevils and facilitate exploring SSR molecular marker development in these species.
Analysis of Dormancy-Associated Transcriptional Networks Reveals a Shared Quiescence Signature in Lung and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Cuccu Adriano , Francescangeli Federica , De Angelis Maria Laura , Bruselles Alessandro , Giuliani Alessandro , Zeuner Ann
Published: August 2022

Quiescent cancer cells (QCCs) are a common feature of solid tumors, representing a major obstacle to the long-term success of cancer therapies. We isolated QCCs ex vivo from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) xenografts with a label-retaining strategy and compared QCCs gene expression profiles to identify a shared “quiescence signature”. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed a specific component neatly discriminating quiescent and replicative phenotypes in NSCLC and CRC. The discriminating component showed significant overlapping, with 688 genes in common including ZEB2, a master regulator of stem cell plasticity and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Gene set enrichment analysis showed that QCCs of both NSCLC and CRC had an increased expression of factors related to stemness/self renewal, EMT, TGF-β, morphogenesis, cell adhesion and chemotaxis, whereas proliferating cells overexpressed Myc targets and factors involved in RNA metabolism. Eventually, we analyzed in depth by means of a complex network approach, both the ‘morphogenesis module’ and the subset of differentially expressed genes shared by NCSLC and CRC. This allowed us to recognize different gene regulation network wiring for quiescent and proliferating cells and to underpin few genes central for network integration that may represent new therapeutic vulnerabilities. Altogether, our results highlight common regulatory pathways in QCCs of lung and colorectal tumors that may be the target of future therapeutic interventions.
Fintech Services and the Drivers of Their Implementation in Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Moreira-Santos Diana , Au-Yong-Oliveira Manuel , Palma-Moreira Ana
Published: August 2022

Fintech has been one of the biggest agents of change in the financial sector worldwide, deserving an in-depth analysis as the aim of this study (including factors leading to its adoption, consequences, etc.). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the financial area and Fintech services allied to technology has increased efficiency, convenience, and security. To better understand this type of service, the research follows a quantitative methodology. The quantitative method included a questionnaire survey of companies that are Fintech customers, totaling 49 valid responses from firms (collected over a three-month period and which involved sending over a thousand emails to numerous companies). The response rate was low due to both the pandemic and the conjuncture with major war, which are generating uncertainty in business. The analysis was based on descriptive statistics, an assessment of the metric qualities of the scales, reliability and an Exploratory Factor Analysis, Pearson correlations and Hypothesis testing. The positive and significant effect of the technological context (perceived convenience, usefulness and effectiveness and perceived safety and trust) and the organizational context (ecological footprint reduction and internal cost reduction) on Fintech service adoption intention was confirmed. Hypothesis Three was partially confirmed since only consumer trends and reputation perception have a positive and significant effect on the intention to adopt Fintech by SMEs. The moderating effect of the environmental context in the relationship between the technological context and the intention to adopt Fintech by SMEs was partially proven, but the same was not verified in the relationship between the organizational context and the intention to adopt Fintech by SMEs. Portugal seems to be on the same adoption path as the rest of the western world, and Fintech services will undoubtedly increase, in a kind of revolution in which the strongest and those able to adapt to the markets and their needs will survive.
Semantic Connections in the Complex Sentences for Post-Editing Machine Translation in the Kazakh Language
Authors: Turganbayeva Aliya , Rakhimova Diana , Karyukin Vladislav , Karibayeva Aidana , Turarbek Asem
Published: August 2022

The problems of machine translation are constantly arising. While the most advanced translation platforms, such as Google and Yandex, allow for high-quality translations of languages with simple grammatical structures, more morphologically rich languages still suffer from the translation of complex sentences, and translation services leave many structural errors. This study focused on designing the rules for the grammatical structures of complex sentences in the Kazakh language, which has a difficult grammar with many rules. First, the types of complex sentences in the Kazakh language were thoroughly observed with the use of templates from the FuzzyWuzzy library. Then, the correction of complex sentences was completed with parallel corpora. The sentences were translated into English and Russian by existing machine translation systems. Therefore, the grammar of both Kazakh–English and Kazakh–Russian language pairs was considered. They both used the rules specifically designed for the post-editing steps. Finally, the performance of the developed algorithm was evaluated for an accuracy score for each pair of languages. This approach was then proposed for use in other corpora generation, post-editing, and analysis systems in future works.
Molecular Cloning and Expression Profiling of CncC in Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel
Authors: Fu Qianyan , Zeng Tian , Xu Yijuan
Published: August 2022

The cap ‘n’ collar isoform C (CncC) transcription factor is thought to be a regulator associated with antioxidant and detoxification genes that can enhance pest resistance by regulating the expression of detoxification enzyme genes. However, this transcription factor has not been well studied in the important agricultural pest Bactrocera dorsalis. In this study, the cDNA sequence of CncC in B. dorsalis was cloned, and the complete ORF sequence was obtained; it had a sequence length of 3378 bp, encoding a total of 1125 amino acids. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that B. dorsalis CncC belonged to the CNC family and that its amino acid sequence showed the closest relationship with B. tryoni. The conserved structural region of BdCncC was analyzed and was found to include a conserved bZIP superfamily structural domain. Spatiotemporal expression analysis revealed that BdCncC was most highly expressed in the adult Malpighian tubules, followed by the antennae, foregut, and midgut, and then the brain, hemolymph, hindgut, and fat body. BdCncC was expressed at every developmental stage, and the highest expression was found in mature males. This study provides a theoretical basis for an in-depth investigation of the function of BdCncC in regulating pesticide resistance in B. dorsalis.
Psychiatric Comorbidity and Emotional Dysregulation in Chronic Tension-Type Headache: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Romero-Godoy Rosalinda , Romero-Godoy Sara Raquel , Romero-Acebal Manuel , Gutiérrez-Bedmar Mario
Published: August 2022

Background: Chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) is frequently associated with a psychiatric comorbidity of depression and anxiety. Most studies focus their attention on this association, and only few link CTTH with psycho-affective emotional regulation disorders. Objective: To evaluate the association of CTTH with anxiety, depression, positive and negative affectivity, and emotional management in CTTH patients with neither a previous diagnosis of psychiatric disorder nor use of psychoactive drugs or abuse of analgesics. Design: Case-control study. Methods: Validated scores for state and trait anxiety, depression, positive and negative state and trait affect, cognitive reappraisal, and expressive suppression were assessed in 40 subjects with CTTH and 40 healthy subjects. Associations between CTTH and psychological status were assessed through linear multivariate regression models. Results: CTTH was associated with higher scores for depression (Beta = 5.46, 95% CI: 1.04–9.88), state and trait anxiety (Beta = 12.77, 95% CI: 4.99–20.56 and Beta = 8.79, 95% CI: 2.29–15.30, respectively), and negative state affect (Beta = 5.26, 95% CI: 0.88–9.64). Conclusions: CTTH is directly associated with depression, anxiety, and negative affectivity signs despite the absence of a previously diagnosed psychiatric disorder or psychopharmacological intake. The recognition of these comorbid and psycho-affective disorders is essential to adapt the emotional management of these patients for better control.
Effects of Supervised Physical Exercise as Prehabilitation on Body Composition, Functional Capacity and Quality of Life in Bariatric Surgery Candidates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Herrera-Santelices Andrea , Argüello-Florencio Graciela , Westphal Greice , Nardo Junior Nelson , Zamunér Antonio Roberto
Published: August 2022

Background: Prehabilitation is a strategy used aiming to reduce the risk factors and complications of surgery procedures, but there is no consensus on the effectiveness of supervised physical exercise and its optimal prescription during this phase. Objectives: To determine the effects of exercise prehabilitation on body composition, functional capacity and quality of life in candidates for bariatric surgery. Search methods: A search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, SciELO, Scopus, MEDLINE and CINAHL. Selection criteria: Only randomized clinical trials that examined the effectiveness of supervised physical exercise were included. The main outcomes were body composition, functional capacity, quality of life and surgical outcomes. Data collection and analysis: Two researchers independently selected the literature, extracted the data and evaluated the risk of bias. A third researcher was consulted when a consensus was not reached. The risk of bias was assessed by the tool recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration, the quality of the evidence by GRADE, and to analyze the effects of prehabilitation on the primary objectives, RevMan software, version 5.3 was used. Main results: The search resulted in 4550 articles, of which 22 met the eligibility criteria, leaving 5 articles selected for this review. One article was assessed as a high bias risk and four as an uncertain risk, which included 139 candidates for bariatric surgery. Most of the studies evaluated the body composition, functional capacity and quality of life; none reported surgical outcomes. Conclusions: Supervised physical exercise has positive effects on the body composition, functional capacity and quality of life; there was no evidence for surgical outcomes, which opens up a field of study for future research of this population.
Changes in the Urinary Sodium-to-Potassium Ratio Are Associated with Blood Pressure Change in Older Japanese Adults: A 7-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Abe Takafumi , Endo Takeshi , Hamano Tsuyoshi , Okuyama Kenta , Yano Shozo
Published: August 2022

Studies on the association between sodium-to-potassium (Na/K) ratio changes and blood pressure (BP) changes among older adults are limited. This 7-year longitudinal study examined the association between Na/K ratio changes (evaluated using spot urine tests) and BP changes among older Japanese adults. Data were collected from 432 participants (mean age: 70.3±4.4; range: 65–84 years) in 2012 and 2019. Changes in BP and the Na/K ratio over 7 years were calculated by subtracting baseline values from values noted during a follow-up survey. The median systolic and diastolic BP (SBP) and (DBP) changes after 7 years were 4 (IQR, −7, 14) and −1 (IQR, −9, 5) mmHg, respectively. The median Na/K ratio was changed during the follow-up period by −0.2 (IQR, −1.3, 0.7). A generalized linear model indicated that Na/K ratio changes were positively associated with SBP (B = 2.03, p < 0.001) and DBP (B = 0.62, p = 0.021) changes. In the non-antihypertensive medication-using group, urinary Na/K ratio changes were associated with SBP and DBP changes (B = 2.39, p = 0.001; B = 0.99, p = 0.033). In the antihypertensive medication user group, urinary Na/K ratio changes were associated with SBP changes (B = 1.62, p = 0.015). We confirmed the association between changes in the Na/K ratio and changes in BP.
Development and Psychometric Properties of the Multi-System Profile of Symptoms Scale in Patients with Rett Syndrome
Authors: Singh Jatinder , Fiori Federico , Law Mei Lin , Ahmed Ruksana , Ameenpur Shashidhar , Basheer Salah , Chishti Samiya , Lawrence Rosie , Mastroianni Mathilde , Mosaddegh Abdolreza , Santosh Paramala
Published: August 2022

Background: Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a rare, neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a range of problematic symptoms. There is yet to be a robust instrument to adequately capture the range of disease severity across the lifespan. In this study, we aimed to develop and assess the validity of an RTT-specific electronic Observer Reported Outcome (eObsRO), the Multi-System Profile of Symptoms Scale (MPSS). Methods: The study was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 consisted of a systematic literature review, focus groups, expert feedback, and a pilot test of the new scale. Modifications were made based on preliminary analysis and feedback collected in the pilot phase. Phase 2 consisted of the validation of the questionnaire based on two samples (Sample 1, n = 18; Sample 2, n = 106). Participants were all parents or caregivers of individuals with RTT. Results: The MPSS consists of 12 validated sub-scales (mental health problems, autonomic problems, cardiac problems, communication problems, problems in social behaviour, problems in engagement, gastrointestinal problems, problems in motor skills, neurological problems, orofacial problems, respiratory problems, and sleep problems), which explore symptom frequency in the past month and a supplement to the scale consisting of five sub-scales (sensory problems, immune dysfunction and infection, endocrine problems, skeletal problems, and dermatological problems), which is designed to capture symptom changes over a longer time period. The frequency of symptoms was rated on a 10-point slider scale, which then was automatically transformed into a 0 to 5 Likert score. All 12 sub-scales showed strong internal consistency (α ≥ 0.700) and good stability, ranging from 0.707 to 0.913. Pearson’s correlation showed a statistically significant (r = 0.649) correlation between the MPSS and the Rett Syndrome Behaviour Questionnaire (RSBQ) total score and significant correlations between sub-scales with items that were presented in both the MPSS and RSBQ. Conclusions: The MPSS is a psychometrically validated eObsRO using the HealthTrackerTM platform and has the potential to be used in clinical trials.
Platelet-Derived Procoagulant Microvesicles Are Elevated in Patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)
Authors: Marcinkowska Adrianna , Wolska Nina , Luzak Boguslawa , Cisiecki Slawomir , Marcinkowski Karol , Rozalski Marcin
Published: August 2022

The etiopathogenesis of retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is multifactorial, and the contribution of platelets to RVO development has not been fully elucidated. We aimed to analyze platelet function in RVO patients (n = 35) and controls (n = 35). We found a higher (p < 0.05) level of soluble P-selectin in RVO group vs. controls. Additionally, in RVO patients, the concentration of platelet-derived microvesicles was higher (p < 0.05), and the difference between groups was deeper for the fraction of platelet-derived microvesicles with the procoagulant phenotype (p < 0.0001) and for overall procoagulant microvesicles level (p < 0.0001). The results were similar for the total RVO group and for both RVO types (central- and branched-retinal vein occlusion). We did not find differences in simple platelet parameters (platelet count, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, platecrit, reticulated platelets) and inflammatory markers (platelet-lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio). Similarly, no differences were found for platelet aggregation-stimulated byadenosine diphosphate; collagen; arachidonic acid; and in multiparametric flow cytometry evaluation of P-selectin, PAC-1, and fibrinogen binding for both unstimulated and adenosine diphosphate-, collagen-, and thrombin receptor activating peptide-stimulated platelets. Our results suggest that platelets can contribute to developing RVO by enhancing procoagulant activity through providing a procoagulation surface via platelet-derived microvesicles. The direct role of platelets’ hyperreactivity in developing RVO is less apparent, which is consistent with the complexity and multifactorial background of this disorder.