bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Methotrexate Toxicity and its Association with ABCB1 Genetic Polymorphism in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Zakaryaei Farima , Mohammadi Ebrahim , Ghaderi Ebrahim , Zamani Fatemeh , Moradveisi Borhan
Published: August 2022

Background: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia(ALL) is the most common type of hematologic malignancy in children. Based on COG protocol, one of the treatments for these children is methotrexate. Methotrexate has many complications in Pediatrics. Nowadays, the relationship between gene mutations and complications of each drug are discussed. This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacogenetics of methotrexate with emphasis on ABCB1 gene and its implications for the treatment of ALL children in Kurdistan province.Methods: Blood samples were obtained from children with ALL, and then DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were performed with approximately 300μMol / μL of each direct primer in the final volume of 50µL. The PCR method was used to amplify the ABCB1 gene and the reaction products were identified by 0.5% agarose gel electrophoresis. The length of the PCR fragments was confirmed by observation by UV-Trans-illuminator. Moreover, blood and liver toxicity in all patients treated with methotrexate were measured by measuring leukocyte counts, platelets, neutrophil percentages, hemoglobin, alanine transaminase activity, and aspartate trans Aminase was evaluated.Results: In the present study, 81 children with ALL (36 females and 45 males) with a mean age of 6.32 ± 3.08 years old were examined. The ABCB1 1199 G->A gene mutation frequency and the ABCB1 3435 C->T gene mutation frequency was 4.9 and 70.4%, respectively. The results showed no statistically significant difference between leukopenia, gastrointestinal toxicity, renal toxicity, hepatotoxicity, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and neutropenia in cases having homozygous heterozygous ABCB1 3435 C->T and ABCB1 1199 G->A mutant polymorphisms than those having ordinary polymorphism.Conclusion: Overall, it seems that C3435 T, G1199A, and ABCB1 are not significant MTX toxicity markers in pediatric ALL cases.
Hyponatremia and aging-related diseases: key player or innocent bystander? A systematic review.
Authors: Fratangelo Luigia , Nguyen Sylvain , D’Amelio Patrizia
Published: August 2022

Purpose.
Hyponatremia is frequent in older age, whether it is a key player, a surrogate marker, or an innocent bystander in age related diseases is still unclear.
Method.
To further understand the role of hyponatremia in falls, osteoporosis, fractures, and cognitive impairment in old patients, we conducted a systematic literature review. The protocol of this study is available on the International prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO, number CRD42021218389). MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO database were searched. Three reviewers identified studies meeting inclusion criteria and check decisions. Each study was independently evaluated by two reviewers, discrepancies between the two reviewers were solved by the third. Two hundred and fifteen articles were retrieved. Thirty-two were included in the review.
Results.
The majority of the studies found a significant association between hyponatremia and falls even after correction for confounding factors. Some studies suggested an association between persistent hyponatremia and increased osteoporosis and fracture risk. On the contrary, the evidence of an association between hyponatremia and cognitive impairment is lacking.
Conclusion.
Here we suggest that hyponatremia may be regarded as a marker of unhealthy aging and a confounder rather than a causal factor or an innocent bystander for falls and fractures. As regards cognitive impairment, the evidence provided until now, are not sufficient to explain a real role of hyponatremia that may be regarded rather as an innocent bystander in neurodegeneration.
Investigate the diagnostic accuracy of rapid influenza diagnostic kit method in comparison to the real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Jha Bimalesh Kumar , lav Rajan , Manandhar Krishna Das
Published: August 2022

Background: This study is cross-sectional and consecutive study carried out to find out the sensitivity and specificity of QuickVue rapid influenza diagnostic kit test with reference to real time RT-PCR.This study was conducted at National Influenza Center, Reference Laboratory, National Public Health Laboratory, Teku, Kathmandu. This study was undertaken in individuals having Influenza like illness visiting National Public Health Laboratory. Material & Methods: A total of 1683 throat swab specimens, obtained from patients with Influenza like Illness (ILI) at National Influenza Surveillance Network (NISN) sentinel hospitals, were transported to National Influenza Center, maintaining reverse cold chain, within 48 hours. Viral RNA was extracted using QIAmp viral RNA kit. Polymerase Chain Reaction assay (PCR) was performed following CDC Real-time rRTPCR protocol for detection and characterization of the influenza viruses including pandemic influenza virus A (H1N1) pdm 09. Samples were tested with quick view rapid test.Results: A total 1683 samples were processed for influenza testing by RDTQuickVue Influenza A+Band PCR simultaneously. Among 1683 samples 491 were positive by rapid testing and PCR as well. Whereas 122 were positive only by PCR. And out of 1520 negative samples, 1508 were negative by rapid testing & PCR as well and 12 were negative only by the PCR. Conclusion: In our study it shows overallgood positivepredictive and negative predictive value help to provide about influenza in quickly as point of care testing that help in the clinical management of the patient in the outbreak with less trained manpower and cost-effective kits. However more data and test need to be done to evaluate the clinical performance of RDT for influenza diagnosis on extrapolated to other age group & clinical information for specific symptoms and severity is require.
PVT1/miR-136/Sox2/UPF1 axis regulates the malignant phenotypes of endometrial cancer stem cells
Authors: Li Qing , Kong Fanfei , Cong Rong , Ma Jian , Wang Cuicui , Ma Xiaoxin
Published: August 2022

Background: Tumor stem cells (TSCs) are thought to contribute to the progression and maintenance of cancer. Previous studies have suggested that plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) has a tumor-promoting effect on endometrial cancer; however, its mechanism of action in endometrial cancer stem cells (ECSCs) is unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanism by which PVT1 regulates the malignant behavior and stemness of ECSCs.Methods: The expression of PVT1, microRNA-136 (miR-136), Y chromosome (SRY)-related high-mobility-group box 2 (Sox2), and Up-frameshift protein 1 (UPF1) in endometrial cancer tissues and ECSCs were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot analysis. The binding sites were predicted and confirmed by bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase analysis, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays, and qRT-PCR. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, the regulatory role of the PVT1/miR-136/Sox2/UPF1 axis in endometrial cancer was investigated.Results: PVT1 and Sox2 were highly expressed in endometrial cancer and ECSCs. They correlated with poor patient prognosis, promoting malignant behavior, and the stemness of endometrial cancer cells (ECCs) and ECSCs. In contrast, miR-136, which is underexpressed in endometrial cancer, had the opposite effect. PVT1 competed with Sox2 to bind miR-136 and regulate the expression of UPF1, thereby exerting a tumor-promoting effect on endometrial cancer.Conclusion: The PVT1/miR-136/Sox2/UPF1 axis plays an important role in the progression and maintenance of endometrial cancer. The results suggest a novel target for endometrial cancer therapies.
The neural basis of panic-like behavioral and somatic symptoms and their rescue in mice
Authors: Kim Jong-Hyun , Kang Sukjae , Kim Dongil , Roberts Benjamin , Han Sung
Published: August 2022

Panic disorder (PD) is characterized by uncontrollable fear accompanied by somatic symptoms that distinguish it from other anxiety disorders. Neural mechanisms underlying these unique symptoms are not completely understood. Here we report that the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP)-expressing neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus projecting to the dorsal raphe (DR) are critical for panic-like behavioral and physiological alterations. These neurons are activated by panicogenic stimuli, but inhibited in conditioned fear and anxiogenic conditions. Activating these neurons elicits strong defensive behaviors and rapid cardiorespiratory increase without creating aversive memory, whereas inhibiting them attenuates panic-associated symptoms. Chemogenetic or pharmacological inhibition of downstream DR PACAP receptor-expressing neurons completely abolishes panic-like symptoms, thus demonstrating that the pontomesencephalic PACAPergic pathway mediates panicogenesis, and thereby identifying a promising therapeutic target for treating PD.
Beneficial performance of a quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolator with displacement-velocity feedback control
Authors: Cheng Chun , Hu Yan , Ma Ran , Wang Weiping
Published: August 2022

A displacement-velocity feedback control method is proposed to enhance the isolation performance of a quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolator (QZS-VI). Time delay is considered in the controlled QZS-VI system. First, the steady-state solutions are obtained using the averaging method and further validated by a numerical method. The jump phenomenon and frequency island phenomenon could occur, and the stability analysis is implemented. Then, the effects of time delay and feedback gain on the frequency response and stability of solutions are analyzed in detail. And then, the force transmissibility is defined to evaluate the isolation performance of the controlled QZS-VI system. The results show that the time delay mainly affects the stability of the controlled system and has a weak influence on the isolation performance. The proposed displacement-velocity feedback control method can suppress the vibration in the resonant region effectively without affecting the performance in the isolation region. Finally, the vibration control effect is illustrated by the concept of an equivalent damping ratio.
Outer nuclear layer recovery as a predictor of visual prognosis in type 1 choroidal neovascularisation of neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Lee Seungheon , Kim Kyung Tae , Kim Dong Yoon , Chae Ju Byung , Seo Eoi Jong
Published: August 2022

Objectives
To investigate the changes in outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness during anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment in type 1 choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) and its impact on vision.
Methods
Type 1 CNV eyes (n = 94) were retrospectively compared to normal control eyes (n = 35). Along with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the location of CNV, foveal ONL thickness, and subretinal fluid height were measured using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and analysed. The type 1 CNV eyes group was subdivided into two groups based on ONL thickness changes during the initial three aflibercept loading doses. Visual outcome and OCT biomarkers were compared.
Results
The CNV group had thinner foveal ONL and worse BCVA compared to the control group. ONL thickness recovered partially along with visual improvement following aflibercept injections. Foveal ONL improvement correlated with the final BCVA during the 1-year follow-up. The study group was subsequently divided into two subgroups, based on the difference in foveal ONL thickness at baseline and after three loading doses of aflibercept: the poor response group (ONL change < + 10 µm; group A) and the good response group (ONL change ≥ +10 µm; group B). Group B showed better visual outcomes than group A, which had more subfoveal CNV (76.0%) than group B (45.5%, p = 0.012).
Conclusions
Type 1 CNV eyes that recovered following anti-VEGF treatment demonstrated good final visual outcome during the 1-year follow-up. Monitoring the foveal ONL thickness during early anti-VEGF treatment could predict visual outcomes in type 1 CNV patients.
Design and Dynamic Performance Research of MR Hydropneumatic Spring Based on Multi-physics Coupling Model
Authors: Jiang Min , Rui Xiaoting , Yang Fufeng , Zhu Wei , Zhu Hongtao , Han Wenjiao
Published: August 2022

Aiming at the problem that the damping coefficient of the traditional hydropneumatic spring cannot be adjusted in real-time, the magnetorheological (MR) damping technology was introduced into the traditional hydro-pneumatic spring with single gas chamber. A new shear-valve mode MR hydro-pneumatic spring was proposed. And its dynamic performance was analyzed based on multi-physical coupling simulation and mechanical property test. Firstly, a structural scheme of MR hydropneumatic suspension was proposed to ensure the original height adjustment function based on the working principle of traditional hydro-pneumatic suspension with single gas chamber. Secondly, based on the design requirements, the parameter of MR hydropneumatic spring damping structure was designed by using MR damper design method. Thirdly, the multi-physical coupling dynamic performance of the MR hydro-pneumatic spring damping structure was analyzed based on the electromagnetic field analysis theory, flow field analysis theory and thermal field analysis theory. The analysis results showed that the designed MR hydro-pneumatic spring has reasonable magnetic circuit structure and excellent working performance. Then, the mechanical properties of MR hydro-pneumatic spring were tested. The results showed that the maximum damping force can reach 20kN, and the dynamic adjustable multiple can reach 6.4 times. It has good controllability and meets the design requirements. Finally, a nonlinear model of MR hydro-pneumatic spring was established based on the elastic force calculation model of the gas and the Bouc-Wen model. The simulation results of the established model agree well with the experimental results, which can accurately describe the dynamic properties of the hydro-pneumatic spring. The proposed design and modeling method of the MR hydro-pneumatic spring can provide a theoretical basis for the related vibration damping devices.
The AuTOMATIC trial: a study protocol for a multi-arm Bayesian adaptive randomised controlled trial of text messaging to improve childhood immunisation coverage
Authors: Currie Grace E , Totterdell James , Bowland Grahame , Leeb Alan , Peters Ian , Blyth Chris C , Waddington Claire , Marsh Julie A , Snelling Thomas L
Published: August 2022

Background
While most Australian children are vaccinated, delays in vaccination can put them at risk from preventable infections. Widespread mobile phone ownership in Australia could allow automated short message service (SMS) reminders to be used as a low-cost strategy to effectively ‘nudge’ parents towards vaccinating their children on time.
Methods
AuTOMATIC is an adaptive randomised trial which aims to both evaluate and optimise the use of SMS reminders for improving the timely vaccination of children at primary care clinics across Australia. The trial will utilise high levels of digital automation to effect, including eligibility assessment, randomisation, delivery of intervention, data extraction and analysis, thereby allowing healthcare-embedded trial delivery. Up to 10,000 parents attending participating primary care clinics will be randomised to one of 12 different active SMS vaccine reminder content and timing arms, or usual practice only (no SMS reminder). The primary outcome is vaccine receipt within 28 days of the scheduled date for the index vaccine (the first scheduled vaccine after randomisation). Secondary analyses will assess receipt and timeliness for all vaccine occasions in all children. Regular scheduled analyses will be performed using Bayesian inference and pre-specified trial decision rules, enabling response adaptive randomisation, suspension of any poorly performing arms, and early stopping if a single best message is identified.
Discussion
This study will aim to optimise SMS reminders for childhood vaccination in primary care clinics, directly comparing alternative message framing and message timing. We anticipate that the trial will be an exemplar in using Bayesian adaptive methodology to assess a readily implementable strategy in a wide population, capable of delivery due to the levels of digital automation. Methods and findings from this study will help to inform strategies for implementing reminders and embedding analytics in primary health care settings.
Trial registration
: ANZCTR: ACTRN12618000789268
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Mental Health and Substance Use Health (MHSUH) Workforce in Canada: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Tulk Christine , Bartram Mary , Leslie Kathleen , Atanackovic Jelena , Chamberland-Rowe Caroline , Bourgeault Ivy
Published: August 2022

Background
The increased need for mental health and substance use health (MHSUH) services during the COVID-19 pandemic underscores the need to better understand workforce capacity. This study aimed to examine the pandemic's impact on the capacity of MHSUH service providers and to understand reasons contributing to changes in availability or ability to provide services.
Methods
We conducted a mixed method study including a pan-Canadian survey of 2,177 providers of MHSUH services and semi-structured interviews with 13 key informants. Survey participants answered questions about how the pandemic had changed their capacity to provide services, reasons for changes in capacity, and how their practice had during the pandemic. Thematic analysis of key informant interviews was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the pandemic on the MHSUH workforce.
Results
Analyses of the survey data indicated that the pandemic has had diverse effects on the capacity of MHSUH workers to provide services: 43% indicated decreased, 24% indicated no change, and 33% indicated increased capacity. Logistic regression analyses showed that privately-funded participants had 3.2 times greater odds of increased capacity (B = 1.20, p < .001), and participants receiving funding from a mix of public and private sources had 2.4 times greater odds of increased capacity (B = 0.88, p < .001) compared to publicly-funded participants. Top reasons for decreases included lockdown measures and clients lacking access or comfort with virtual care. Top reasons for increases included using virtual care and more people having problems relevant to the participant's skills. Five themes were constructed from thematic analysis of key informant interviews: the differential impact of public health measures, increased inequity accessing MHSUH services, improving recognition driven by need for services, the accumulating impact of stressful working conditions, and critical gaps in MHSUH workforce data.
Conclusions
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on the capacity of the MHSUH workforce to provide services. Findings indicate the importance of increasing and harmonizing funding for MHSUH services across the public and private sectors, developing standardized datasets describing the MHSUH workforce, and prioritizing equity across the spectrum of MHSUH services.
An agent-based approach for aircraft fleet scheduling path planning considering space constraint
Authors: Cui Bowen , Tao Xiaochuang , Yuan Yanbin
Published: August 2022

In this paper, an agent-based approach for carrier based aircraft fleet scheduling path planning considering space constraint is analyzed and the objective is to minimize the fleet scheduling time. Firstly, the fleet scheduling environment is introduced, then modeling the aircraft fleet scheduling process based on multi-agent, two main agents are considered in this paper, Space Agent and Aircraft Agent. Next, a global optimization method for fleet cooperative path planning based on improved A* algorithm is given, which considering waiting strategy and bypass strategy, and the scheduling time is chosen as the optimization goal. Finally, the fleet with 10 carrier based aircraft is analyzed for verifying the proposed optimization approach. The simulation results show that the optimized algorithm can achieve the simultaneous scheduling of multiple aircraft, and the efficiency and the availability of the scheduling system is improved.
Association of platelet count trajectories with clinical outcomes in patients with sepsis: a retrospective cohort study based on the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Wang Dong , Zhu Zepeng , Lu Xun , Mao Weipu , Chen Shuqiu
Published: August 2022

Background
Compared to normal platelet count (PC), absolute and relative platelet reductions are associated with worse clinical outcomes in septic patients. However, as to whether different variation trends of platelet count are associated with prognosis has not been investigated. The purpose of the research was to examine the effect of platelet count trajectories on prognosis and risk factors of septic patients with different PC trajectories.
Method
Group-based trajectory models (GBTMs), which identify groups of individuals on the basis of similar developmental paths, were used to identify three subgroups of PC trajectories (increasing, low, and medium PC). Hospital mortality and 90-day mortality were the primary outcomes. Multivariable Cox, logistic, linear regression analysis were used to assess relationship between PC trajectories and clinical outcomes and multinomial logistic regression were used to identify risk factors of different trajectories
Results
The proportion of patients with increasing, low, and medium PC was identified in 367 (6.2%), 3173 (53.4%), and 2406 (40.5%) patients. Compared with low PC, Medium PC was associated with lower hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR) 0.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.72–0.99], the following relative risks (RRs) < 1: Male, Vasopressor use (1st 24h), RRT use (1st 24h), without hypertension, without diabetes, and CCU/CVICU
Conclusion
The Low PC trajectory was related to a higher risk of hospital mortality. Male, Vasopressor use (1st 24h), RRT use (1st 24h), without hypertension, without diabetes, and CCU/CVICU patients are risk factors of septic patients with low PC trajectories.
Inhibition of nucleophosmin/B23 sensitizes ovarian cancer cells to antiprogrammed cell death protein-1 ligand therapy
Authors: Lin Chiao-Yun , Tsai Chia-Lung , Tang Yun-Hsin , Chao Angel , Yang Lan-Yan , Wang Chin-Jung , Lai Chyong-Huey
Published: August 2022

Monoclonal antibodies against programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 are immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) that have been approved for the treatment of many human cancers. However, the response to these ICIs was limited in patients with ovarian cancer. Studies have indicated that the response to PD-1–PD-L1 blockade might be correlated with the PD-L1 expression level in cancer cells. Mechanistic pathways that control PD-L1 expression are yet to be elucidated and targeting these pathways can improve the efficacy of PD-1–PD-L1 blockade in patients with ovarian cancer. Our results revealed that NPM/B23 regulated PD-L1 expression in ovarian cancer cells. Mechanistically, NPM/B23 negatively regulates PD-L1 expression through NF-κB/p65. Moreover, in the immunocompetent mouse model, the NPM/B23 inhibitor/modulator sensitized the cancer cells to the anti-PD-1 antibody by regulating PD-L1 expression. Compared with treatment with the NPM/B23 inhibitor/modulator or the anti-PD-1 antibody alone, their combined use reduced tumorigenesis and increased CD8+ T-cell expansion, thus contributing to prolong the survival of MOSEC/Luc-bearing mice in vivo. In conclusion, targeting NPM/B23 is a novel therapeutic approach to sensitize cancer cells to immune therapy and reduce tumorigenesis.
Aligned nanofibrous collagen membranes from fish swim bladder as a tough and acid-resistant suture for pH-regulated stomach perforation and tendon rupture
Authors: Luan Zhaohui , Liu Shuang , Wang Wei , Xu Kaige , Ye Shaosong , Dan Ruijue , Zhang Hong , Shu Zhenzhen , Wang Tongchuan , Fan Chaoqiang , Xing Malcolm , Yang Shiming
Published: August 2022

Background
Wound closure in the complex body environment places higher requirements on suture's mechanical and biological performance. In the scenario of frequent mechanical gastric motility and extremely low pH, single functional sutures have limitations in dealing with stomach bleeding trauma where the normal healing will get deteriorated in acid. It necessitates to advance suture, which can regulate wounds, resist acid and intelligently sense stomach pH.
Methods
Based on fish swim bladder, a double-stranded drug-loaded suture was fabricated. Its cytotoxicity, histocompatibility, mechanical properties, acid resistance and multiple functions were verified. Also, suture’s performance suturing gastric wounds and Achilles tendon was verified in an in vivo model.
Results
By investigating the swim bladder's multi-scale structure, the aligned tough collagen fibrous membrane can resist high hydrostatic pressure. We report that the multi-functional sutures on the twisted and aligned collagen fibres have acid resistance and low tissue reaction. Working with an implantable "capsule robot," the smart suture can inhibit gastric acid secretion, curb the prolonged stomach bleeding and monitor real-time pH changes in rabbits and pigs. The suture can promote stomach healing and is strong enough to stitch the fractured Achilles tendon.
Conclusions
As a drug-loaded absorbable suture, the suture shows excellent performance and good application prospect in clinical work.
Improved mineralization of dental enamel by electrokinetic delivery of F- and Ca2+ ions
Authors: Tay NamBeng , Gan HiongYap , Sousa Frederico Barbosa , Shen Lu , Nóbrega Diego Figueiredo , Peng Chenhui , Kilpatrick-Liverman LaTonya , Wang Wei , Lavender Stacey , Pilch Shira , Han Jongyoon
Published: August 2022

This in vitro study evaluated the effects of the infiltration of F- and Ca2+ ions into human enamel by electrokinetic flow (EKF) on the mechanical property and F- content of enamel. Sound human enamel ground sections of unerupted third molars were infiltrated with de-ionized water by EKF and with F- ion by EKF respectively. All samples were submitted to two successive transverse acid-etch biopsies (etching times of 30 s and 20 mins) to quantify F- ion infiltrated deep into enamel. Remarkably, sound enamel showed a large increase in microhardness (MH) after infiltration of NaF (p < 0.00001) and CaCl2 (p = 0.013) by EKF. NaF-EKF increased AEC-LB remineralization compared to controls (p < 0.01). With enamel biopsy technique, at both etching times, more F- ions were found in EKF-treated group than the control group (p << 0.05) and more fluoride was extracted from deeper biopsies in the NaF-EKF group. In conclusion, our results show that EKF treatment is a superior in transporting Ca2+ and F- ions into sound enamel when compared to molecular diffusion, enhancing the mineralization of sound and carious human enamel.
Patient volume forecasting in the radiology department using deep learning and statistical-based models
Authors: pala zeydin , Atıcı Ramazan , Yaldız Erkan
Published: August 2022

As the demand for medical care increases significantly every day, the issue of managing the volume of patients in hospitals and radiology units becomes more and more important. Due to the radiation emitted by the devices in the radiology unit, the minimum time spent by the patients for radiological imaging in hospitals is of vital importance both for the hospital and the patient. This study aims to estimate the monthly number of images in the hospital radiology unit using deep learning models and statistical-based models, so that it is prepared for the future in a more planned way. While deep learning models such as LSTM, MLP, NNAR and ELM were used for forecasting, statistics- based prediction models such as ARIMA, SES, TBATS, HOLT, and THETAF were also used. In order to evaluate the performance of the models, symmetric mean absolute percentage error (sMAPE), and mean absolute scaled error (MASE), which are very popular recently, were used. Results show that while the LSTM model performed better than the deep learning group in estimating the number of monthly radiological case images, the ARIMA model performed better in the statistical-based group. It is believed that the findings obtained will make important contributions to the future planning of the hospital by increasing both the service quality and patient satisfaction by facilitating the hospital managers in managing the volume of patients coming to the hospital and transferred to the radiology unit more efficiently.
Experimental analysis of earthquake prediction using machine learning classifiers, curve fitting, and neural modeling
Authors: Chittora Pankaj , Chakrabarti Tulika , Debnath Papiya , Gupta Amit , Chakrabarti Prasun , Praveen S Phani , Margala Martin , Elngar Ahmed A.
Published: August 2022

An earthquake is one of the most massive natural disasters which happens unexpectedly shaking the earth's surface. Due to earthquakes, not only infrastructure but also buildings get damaged thereby affecting lifestyle. For the early-stage prediction of the earthquake impact, machine learning can play a vital role, and this entails the novelty of the work. For this perception, six different machine learning classifiers namely Artificial Neural Network, Random Tree, CHAID, Discriminant, XGBoost Tree, and Tree-AS on six datasets of different regions of India. All the algorithms have been applied to each dataset. The objective of the research is to predict the value of magnitude for the future earthquake in India and nearby regions from the historical data on earthquakes. From the result, It has been observed that for Andaman & Nikobar dataset XGBoost Tree achieved the highest accuracy with 99.10%, for the Gujarat dataset Tree-AS achieved the highest accuracy with 91.67%, for the North India dataset Artificial Neural Network achieved the highest accuracy with 99.13%, for North East India dataset XGBoost Tree achieved the highest accuracy with 99.04%, for Nepal-UP-Bihar dataset XGBoost Tree achieved the highest accuracy with 99.01%, for Nearby India’s Country dataset XGBoost Tree achieved the highest accuracy with 92.12%. From all the results, it has been noted that XGBoost tree classifier performed well in most datasets., the Curve has been made between magnitude & gap, magnitude & magnitude error, and magnitude and depth error for finding the mathematical relation between them.
Foliar transcriptomes reveal candidate genes for late blight resistance in cultivars of diploid potato Solanum goniocalyx
Authors: Cruz Germán De la , Blas Raúl , Pérez Willmer , Neyra Edgar , Ortiz Rodomiro
Published: August 2022

Characterization of major resistance (R) genes to late blight (LB) –caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans– is very important for potato breeding. The objective of this study was to identify novel genes for resistance to LB from cultivated diploid Solanum goniocalyx. Using comparative analysis with a bio-conductor package for differential expression analysis of transcriptomes of two S. goniocalyx accessions with contrasting levels of resistance to LB were analyzed digital gene expression data (edgeR). As a result, various differentially expressed genes (P ≤ 0.0001, Log2FC ≥ 2, FDR < 0.001) were noted. The combination of transcriptomic analysis provided a reasonable number of candidate genes that are overexpressed and under expressed, thereby giving to S. goniocalyx high resistance to LB. The functional analysis of R genes and their corresponding proteins related to disease resistance, NBS-LRR domain proteins and specific disease resistance proteins. Comparative analysis of specific tissue transcriptomes in resistant and susceptible genotypes can be used for identifying rapidly candidate R genes, thus adding novel genes from S. goniocalyx for host plant resistance to P. infestans in potato.
Repair of ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm with a heart shape to the pericardium cavity in a 54-year-old patient
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiro , Iba Yutaka , Shibata Tsuyoshi , Hosaka Itaru , Nakazawa Jyunji , Kawaharada Nobuyoshi
Published: August 2022

We herein describe a 58-year-old man with type A aortic dissection due to stent graft-induced new entry (SINE). Six years previously, he had developed severe back pain and was diagnosed with type B aortic dissection after computed tomography examination. Because the primary entry was positioned at the descending aorta, we conducted thoracic endovascular aortic repair for exclusion of the entry with a GORE TAG conformable thoracic aortic. He was thereafter followed by our hospital. Six years later, he developed jaw pain and was examined at another hospital. He was transferred to our hospital because of the possibility of type A dissection. Computed tomography revealed type A aortic dissection with proximal site SINE. Emergency partial arch replacement was conducted, and he was discharged on postoperative day 27. Because the entry was at the lesser curve of the arch, we excluded the entry and conducted partial arch replacement.
The spectrum of cardiovascular complications related to immune-checkpoint inhibitor treatment
Authors: Andres Maria Sol , Ramalingam Sivatharshini , Rosen Stuart D. , Baksi John , Khattar Rajdeep , Kirichenko Yulia , Young Kate , Yousaf Nadia , Okines Alicia , Huddart Robert , Harrington Kevin , Furness Andrew , Turajlic Samra , Pickering Lisa , Popat Sanjay , Larkin James , Lyon Alexander R.
Published: August 2022

Background: The full range of cardiovascular complications related to the use of Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) is not fully understood. We aim to describe the spectrum of cardiovascular adverse events (cvAEs) by presenting our real-world experience of the diagnosis and management of these complications. Methods: Two thousand six hundred and forty-seven (2647) patients were started on ICI treatment between 2014 and 2020. Data from 110 patients referred to the cardio-oncology service with a suspected cvAE was collected prospectively and analysed. Results: Eighty-nine patients (3.4%) were confirmed to have cvAEs while on ICI therapy. Myocarditis was the most frequent event (33/89), followed by tachyarrhythmia (27/89), non-inflammatory left ventricular dysfunction (NILVD) (15/89) and pericarditis (7/89). Results from myocarditis and non-inflammatory left ventricular dysfunction cohorts were compared. Myocarditis and NILVD showed significant differences in respect of troponin elevation, cardiac magnetic resonance abnormalities and ventricular function. Dual ICI therapy and other immune related adverse events were more frequently associated with myocarditis than NILVD. There was a significant difference in the median time from starting ICI treatment to presentation with myocarditis versus NILVD (12 vs 26 weeks p = 0.049). Through early recognition of myocarditis, prompt treatment with steroids and interruption of ICI, there were no cardiovascular in-hospital deaths. NILVD did not require steroid treatment and ICI could be restarted safely.Conclusions: The full spectrum of cardiovascular complication in patients with immune checkpoint inhibitors is much broader than initially described. Myocarditis remains the most frequent cvAE related to ICI treatment. Atrial tachyarrhythmias and NILVD were also frequent in this cohort. NILVD has a different presentation from ICI-related myocarditis, usually presenting after 6 months of treatment commencement and presents no inflammatory features.
Application of local defect internal resonance method for detection of adhesive interface debonding
Authors: Li Zhihang , Xiao Li , Qu Wenzhong
Published: August 2022

The bonding interface is prone to debonding under environmental implication and long-time operational vibrations, which may affect the structural integrity severely. This paper presents an interface debonding identification method to solve adhesive interface debonding between aluminum plates in the framework of the internal resonance of local defects. Firstly, based on a two degree of freedom (2-DOF) nonlinear model of local defects in the bonding interface, the multi-scale method is used to explain the mechanism of the internal resonance of local defects and conditions for the generation of the internal resonance. By analyzing the saturation phenomenon peculiar to the 2:1 internal resonance of local defects in the spectrum, the adhesive interface debonding identification experiment of a bonding aluminum plate is carried out. The effectiveness of the local defect internal resonance method is verified by experimental results and theoretical analysis. The results demonstrate that the bonding structure appears the saturation phenomenon under the specific excitation conditions. Furtherly the local defect internal resonance method is found to be effective in solving adhesive interface debonding detection.
Sleep Quality in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis and Its Relationship with Disease Activity and Comorbidities: a Cross- Sectional Study
Authors: Toledano Esther , Hidalgo Cristina , Gómez-Lechón Luis , Ibáñez Marta , Chacón Carolina Cristina , Pastor Sonia , Montilla Carlos
Published: August 2022

Background. The assessment of psoriatic arthritis is complex and multidimensional. It is increasingly common to include the patient perspective using patient-reported outcomes. Although some research has explored sleep quality in patients with psoriatic arthritis, most studies have had small sample sizes, failed to assess sleep quality considering the inflammatory process together with the psychological well-being of patients, and have not clearly described any use of sleep medication. Further, research to date has not provided data on the relationship of sleep quality with axial forms. In this context, the objective of this study was to assess sleep quality in patients with psoriatic arthritis and its relationship with clinical characteristics, disease activity, functioning, disease impact, fatigue and psychological status.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted including 247 consecutive patients with PsA recruited during 2021. Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. We assessed correlations of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score with peripheral disease activity (Clinical Disease Activity Index for PSoriatic Arthritis), axial disease activity (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score-C-reactive protein and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index), functioning (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index and Health Assessment Questionnaire), impact (Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease questionnaire), anxiety, depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue) scores. A logistic regression model was built establishing two groups of patients stratified by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (≥6 indicating poor sleep quality).Results. Nearly two-thirds (63.15%) of patients had poor sleep quality. Poorer sleep quality was associated with being female, higher joint counts, greater peripheral and axial disease activity, fatigue, anxiety and depression, functioning and disease impact (p<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis found that pain (β:0.48; p<0.001) and fatigue (β: -0.13; p<0.001) contributed 43% to the sleep quality model. In logistic regression analysis, pain (OR: 1.20 [1.01-1.43), fatigue (OR: 0.89 [0.84, 0.95]) and anxiety (OR: 1.27 [1.06-1.51]) explained 48% of poor sleep quality. Conclusions. Poor sleep quality was common among patients with psoriatic arthritis. Emotional factors (fatigue, anxiety) seemed more important than inflammatory factors in sleep quality.
Severe Combined Immunodeficiency: Improved survival leading to detection of underlying liver disease
Authors: Vittal Anusha , Majeed Nehna Abdul , Garabedian Elizabeth , Marko Jamie , Kleiner David E , Sokolic Rob , Candotti Fabio , Malech Harry , Heller Theo , Koh Christopher
Published: August 2022

Background
Adenosine deaminase deficiency (ADA) is a primary autosomal recessive genetic disorder leading to severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). It is characterized pathophysiologically by intracellular accumulation of toxic products affecting lymphocytes and other organ systems. This cross sectional study was conducted to describe the liver disease in a cohort of patients with autosomal recessive ADA-SCID.
Methods
A single center cross sectional retrospective analysis (2006 to 2019) was performed in 18 patients with genetically confirmed ADA-SCID. Liver disease was defined as ≥1.5x the gender specific upper limit of normal (ULN; 33 IU/L for males and 25 IU/L for females) or moderate and severe increase in liver echogenicity on ultrasound.
Results
The cohort included 11 males, the median age was 11.5 (3.5–30.0 years) and median BMI was 18.4 kg/m2. Eighteen (100%), Seven (38%) and five (27%) patients had enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), gene therapy (GT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Five (?%) patients had ALT levels more than 1.5x the ULN. Liver echogenicity was increased mildly in 6 (33%), moderately in 2 (11%), severely in 2 (11%) and normal in 8 (44.4%) patients. All patients had normal FIB-4 and NAFLD fibrosis score indicating absence of advanced fibrosis in our cohort. Of 8 patients who had liver biopsies for diagnostic purposes, steatohepatitis measured by histopathology NASH-CRN scoring was noted in 4 patients.
Discussion
Non-immunologic manifestations of ADA-SCID have become more apparent in recent years as survival improved. In our cohort, the most common liver disease manifestation was steatosis. We postulate that hepatic steatosis noted is possibly multifactorial - recurrent infection, exposure to multiple medications and increased BMI.
Prevalence of Y chromosomal microdeletion in Indian infertile males with sperm abnormality
Authors: S Archana , J Vijayalakshmi , G Usha Rani , Paul Solomon F.D. , Manjula G. , Reddy Sanjeeva
Published: August 2022

During gamete’s development and spermatogenesis, certain genes on the Y chromosome (Yq) in Male specific region (MSR) are responsible for human gametes formation. The long arm Yq is composed of both euchromatin and the genetically inactive heterochromatin regions. This region contains the Azoospermia factors AZFa, AZFb and AZFc. In the case of male infertility, microdeletions on the Yq chromosome appear to be structural chromosomal anomalies linked to sperm abnormality. The present study was aimed to look at the incidence, of Asthenospermia (AS), Teratospermia (TS), Oligospermia (OS) and Oligoasthoteratospermia (OAT) patterns of Y chromosomal microdeletions in Indian infertile men with a (AZF a, b, c). In this study, 75 infertile men as case and 75 fertile men as a control were examined for AZF locus microdeletion utilizing sequence-tagged sites. The AZFc region of germ cell DNA (50.6%) being the most deleted section in infertile men when compared to blood DNA (21.3%), followed by deletions in the AZFb region (21.3%) in germ cell DNA whereas blood DNA had a and no microdeletion in the AZFa region in both germ cell DNA and blood DNA. infertile men had that significant Yq microdeletion in both AZF b and also AZFc. Around 33% (25) of 75 infertile men had AZF (a, b, c) region microdeletion in blood DNA, compared to it germ cell DNA had a larger percentage of 72%(54) of Y chromosome micro deletions in the study samples, high frequency rate of microdeletions seen in germ cell DNA. PCR-based Y chromosome microdeletions screening using germ cell DNA along with Genomic DNA might help in screening genetic abnormality of infertile men those who endure assisted reproductive technology treatments. This might be attributable to the interplay of lifestyle factors and genetic factors both contribute to the risk of developing these germ line deletions.
Assessing the Cost-Effectiveness of waiting list reduction strategies for a breast radiology department: a real-life case study
Authors: Fanizzi Annarita , Graps Elisabetta , Bavaro Domenica Antonia , Farella Marco , Bove Samantha , Campobasso Francesco , Comes Maria Colomba , Cristofaro Cristian , Forgia Daniele La , Milella Martina , Iacovelli Serena , Villani Rossella , Signorile Rahel , De Bartolo Alessio , Lorusso Vito , Massafra Raffaella
Published: August 2022

A timely diagnosis is essential for improving breast cancer patients’ survival and designing targeted therapeutic plans. For this purpose, the screening timing, as well as the related waiting lists, are decisive. Nonetheless, even in economically advanced countries, breast cancer radiology centres fail in providing effective screening programs. Actually, a careful hospital governance should encourage waiting lists reduction programs, not only for improving patients care, but also for minimizing costs associated with the treatment of advanced cancers. Thus, in this work, we proposed a model to evaluate several scenarios for an optimal distribution of the resources invested in a Department of Breast Radiodiagnosis. Particularly, we performed a cost-benefit analysis as a technology assessment method to estimate both costs and health effects of the screening program, to maximise both benefits related to the quality of care and resources employed by the Department of Breast Radiodiagnosis of Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” of Bari in 2019. Specifically, we determined the Quality-Adjusted Life Year (QALY) for estimating health outcomes, in terms of usefulness of two hypothetical screening strategies with respect to the current one. While the first hypothetical strategy adds one team made up of a doctor, a technician and a nurse, along with an ultrasound and a mammograph, the second one adds two afternoon teams. This study showed that the most cost-effective incremental ratio could be achieved by reducing current waiting lists from 32 to 16 months. Finally, our analysis revealed that this strategy would also allow to include more people in the screening programs (60,000 patients in 3 years).
The Efficacy and Safety for Single Dose of Rituximab in Children with Steroid Dependent- Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome by Two Years
Authors: Niu Xiao-Ling , Gu Yun-Fan , Feng Dan , Hao Sheng , Kuang Xin-Yu , Wang Ping , Huang Wen-Yan
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Exploring efficacy and safety for first single dose of rituximab(RTX) in children with steroid dependent-minimal change nephrotic syndrome(SD-MCNS) by retrospective analysis in two years after RTX and established the model of prediction for relapsing. Methods: Children with SD-MCNS, admitted in our hospital and received single dose of RTX(375mg/m2) by first time from Oct 2011 to Dec 2018, were included. They were followed by 24 months. The clinical and laboratory data before and after RTX were collected and analyzed. Results: 77 patients (M/F: 51/26) were included. The median age was 8.17 years old. The median dependent dosage of steroids was 7.87mg/m2·d. The efficacy for the first single dose of RTX in children with SD-MCNS was 90.91%(70/77), 60 patients (77.9%) for complete remission and 10(13.0%) for partial remission. The relapse rate was 78.3%. There were no severe side effects. Age using RTX, dependent dosage of steroids and CD4+ level before RTX had relationship with efficacy of RTX (B=0.390, -0.091, 0.134, P<0.05). Sex, ageing using RTX, IgE before RTX, WBC and CD3+ when stopping steroids were related to relapsing (B=-1.485, -0.373, 1.278, -0.417, 0.135, P<0.05). The model of prediction for relapsing after RTX in children with SD-MCNS was established.Conclusion: Single dose of RTX is efficiency and safe in children with SD-MCNS, but with high recurrence rate. Patients with older age using RTX, or smaller dependent-dosage of steroids, or higher CD4+ have better efficacy for RTX. Male younger patients with higher IgE relapse more easily.