bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing System Of Diesel Fuel Provision By Mapping Fisherman Activities
Authors: Sahulata Reynoldus Andrias , Sunarya Po Abas
Published: February 2022

The certainty of getting diesel fuel oil for the purposes for fishing of  fishermen needs to get serious attention from the government, this is due to the many irregularities seen in the fishermen's field before going to sea, to get diesel must deal with the availability of diesel with an affordable price level especially for fishermen who use fishing vessels with volumes of up to 30GT (Gross Ton) must deal with individuals who regulation seaworthy letters that ignore Article 86 of the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Regulation No. 30 of 2012 concerning Capture Fisheries Business in the Republic of Indonesia's Fisheries Management Area Indonesia is in the form of a Fishing License (SIPI) and a Fishing Vessel License (SIKPI), an Original Operation Feasibility Certificate (SLO) and an Original Sailing Certificate (SPB), which makes it difficult to obtain subsidized diesel fuel that fishermen should have with vessel qualifications up to 30GT. For this reason, the researchers built of arrangement for computerized fishermen's diesel fuelsupply so that the certainty of the availability of diesel fuel in accordance with its designation can be ensured, because all supply and distribution of diesel fuel is regulated to be carried out computerized.
O CONTEXTO DE SURGIMENTO DO POSITIVISMO JURÍDICO NA TRADIÇÃO JURÍDICA FRANCESA
Authors: Bohnenberger Diego , De Lima Pinto Emerson
Published: February 2022

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar os aspectos jurídicos e filosóficos relacionados ao surgimento da doutrina do positivismo jurídico na França. Para tanto, apresentou-se, inicialmente, o conceito de positivismo jurídico, bem como os conceitos e a relação entre o direito natural e o direito positivo. Essas definições são importantes para possibilitar a adequada compreensão acerca do fenômeno positivista. No momento seguinte, abordou-se o contexto histórico-teórico de desenvolvimento do positivismo na tradição jurídica francesa, demonstrando quais foram os elementos fundamentais que desencadearam o movimento codificador francês, e as principais propostas metodológicas da Escola da Exegese, que surgiu a partir da necessidade de interpretar o novo Código Civil de maneira a manter-se fiel à literalidade do texto legal. Finalizou-se a pesquisa com um resumo dos principais aspectos apresentados pelo positivismo jurídico clássico francês, destacando-se, ainda, a importância de aprofundar a pesquisa em relação aos aspectos apresentados pelo positivismo em outras tradições jurídicas.
Perceptions and Knowledge of Self-Regulation of Paramedics in Australia
Authors: Reed Buck , Cowin Leanne , O'Meara Peter , Wilson Ian
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Since 2018, paramedics in Australia have been self-regulated under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS) for health professionals. While paramedics and other health practitioners are self-regulated in many jurisdictions internationally, there has been little study of the impact on practitioners of the introduction of new regulatory frameworks.

Method

Paramedics undertook a survey in the month leading up the commencement of self-regulation collecting both qualitative and quantitative data. The survey was completed by 419 participants. This paper explores the analysis of quantitative data. Key results were cross-tabulated with demographic factors.

Results

Participants indicated they had good broad knowledge of the regulatory scheme but were less confident on more detailed aspects. Most believed that patient safety and practitioner accountability will improve with registration however results were less clear on changes in scope, remuneration or employment opportunities. Questions on identity indicated that the primary factors in paramedic identity construction were employment status, qualifications and scope with impending registration the least important factor. Overall, 59% of participants supported self-regulation, however 25% indicated they held negative views. When cross-tabulated with demographics, years of service and initial qualification (vocational vs university) showed relationships with support for regulation.

Conclusion

The introduction of self-regulation represents significant change to both the governance of paramedics and entry to the profession. Uncertainty By some is indicative of the unique nature and impact of the change. However, there is wide agreement that the scheme will increase safety and accountability which are the key aims of professional regulation.
Kaz Dağları Bölgesi Salgı Ballarının Bazı Kalite Özelliklerinin Belirlenmesi
Authors: YALAZİ Emrah , ZORBA Murat
Published: February 2022

Bu çalışma ile Çanakkale il sınırları içerisinde Kaz dağları bölgesi salgı ballarının bazı kalite özelliklerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda Ayvacık, Bayramiç, Çan ve Yenice bölgelerinden temin edilen salgı bal örneklerinin; elektriksel iletkenlik, viskozite, nem ve Brix, renk, kül, asitlik ve pH değeri, şeker profili, mineral profili, prolin ve diastaz sayısı analizleri gerçekleştirilmiş ve bu analiz sonuçları istatistiksel anlamda incelenmiştir. Bu çalışmada, salgı bal örneklerin başlıca kalite özellikleri olan elektriksel iletkenlik değerleri 0,86-1,89 mS/cm aralığında, nem içerikleri %15,10-%18,25 aralığında ve prolin içeriği 614,36- 1040,20 mg/kg aralığında değişkenlik gösterdiği ayrıca diastaz sayısının 8’den yüksek ve serbest asitlik değerinin 50 meq/kg’den düşük olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Effect of Intracameral Epinephrine and Indocyanine Green Use on Corneal Endothelium during Cataract Surgery
Authors: Kim Myung Ae , Jo Youn Hye , Lee Hyungwoo , Shin Ki Cheul
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To investigate the safety of single and combined use of epinephrine and indocyanine green during cataract surgery by evaluating the effects on corneal endothelial cells.Methods: From January 2017 to October 2021, 121 patients (132 eyes) who underwent cataract surgery were enrolled. Patients were divided into 4 groups: epinephrine (n = 20), indocyanine green (n = 49), epinephrine and indocyanine green combination (n = 12), and control (n = 51). Retrospective medical chart findings and endothelial cell count change data were compared among study groups before and after operation.Results: Endothelial cell count change (△ECC) decreased for all groups; however, a significant difference among groups was not observed (p = 0.822). Univariate linear regression showed that △ECC was associated with postoperative hexagonality, nuclear sclerosis grade, ultrasound time, and cumulative dissipated energy (beta = -0.216, 0.254, 0.368, 0.351 and p = 0.013, p = 0.003, p < 0.001, p < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression showed that △ECC was associated with postoperative hexagonality and ultrasound time (beta = -0.215, 0.367, p = 0.010, p < 0.001).Conclusions: Factors closely associated with postoperative endothelial cell loss were postoperative hexagonality and ultrasound time. No significant damage to the corneal endothelium was observed when epinephrine and indocyanine green were used alone or in combination. Thus, these agents appear safe for use in this context.
Illuminated Chop Using an Illuminated Chopper in Cataract Surgery: on the Way to Minimal-energy Phacoemulsification
Authors: Kim Jinsoo , Lee Ki Woong , Lee Dae Young , Eom Young Sub , Nam Dong Heun
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To minimize ultrasound power use and surgical phaco time in illuminated chop cataract surgery.Methods: The charts of patients who underwent senile cataract surgery by a single surgeon were reviewed retrospectively. A conventional intracameral endoilluminator was used in a Stop & Chop group (n = 45), while an illuminated chopper was used in an illuminated chop (I-Chop) group (n = 71). EFX, a unitless value that roughly correlates with ultrasound energy during phacoemulsification, surgical phaco time, and changes in endothelial cell count were compared between the two groups and the ratio of zero phacoemulsification in the I-Chop group was evaluated.Results: EFX of the Stop & Chop and I-Chop groups was 18.08 ± 16.15 and 0.82 ± 3.53, respectively (p = 0.001), while the surgical phaco time was 185.08 ± 41.42 and 162.04 ± 49.65 seconds (p = 0.01). However, the endothelial loss did not differ in the two groups (7.03 ± 7.89 vs. 7.13 ± 9.47%, p = 0.76). In the I-Chop group, 56 (86%) eyes had zero phaco energy and patients with EFX >1 (n = 6) had more severe nuclear sclerosis grading (2.90 ± 0.71 vs. 4.5 ± 1.0; p = 0.001).Conclusions: The I-Chop group had lower EFX and shorter surgical phaco time than the Stop & Chop group. Illuminated chop using an illuminated chopper is one way to attain minimal phacoemulsification.
Intraocular Cytokine Changes in Patients with Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy Treated with Ranibizumab
Authors: Choi Youna , Kim So Hee , Choi Seung Kwon , Lee Jae Jung , Lee Seung Min , Kwon Han Jo , Park Seung Who , Lee Ji Eun , Byon Ik Soo
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To investigate the changes in intraocular cytokines after ranibizumab treatment in patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).Methods: This multicenter, prospective study enrolled patients with PCV treated with three monthly ranibizumab followed by a pro re nata regimen for 24 weeks. Best corrected visual acuity, slit lamp examination, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography were performed every 4 weeks. Aqueous humor was collected to measure intraocular cytokines at baseline, week 8, and the time of recurrence or week 20. The association of changes in intraocular cytokines with visual acuity, central macular thickness, central choroidal thickness, area of abnormal vessels, and polyp closure was assessed.Results: This study included 25 eyes. The mean patient age was 70.3 ± 6.1 years. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentration decreased at week 8, but only interferon (IFN)-γ, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP)-2, and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-2 decreased at the time of recurrence. The recurrence interval was positively associated with the baseline epithelial-neutrophil activating peptide (ENA)-78, interleukin (IL)-17, leptin, and transforming growth factor-β1, and baseline central macular thickness was positively correlated with the baseline fibroblast growth factor-4 and IL-10. Thick central choroidal thickness was associated with a low basic fibroblast growth factor and high IFN-γ at baseline. The MCP-3 and Tie-2 levels decreased in two eyes with polyp closure.Conclusions: Ranibizumab significantly reduced intraocular VEGF concentrations and consequently improved PCV. However, the cytokines IFN-γ, TIMP-2, and MCP-2, rather than VEGF, were associated with PCV recurrence. Further studies of intraocular cytokines involved in neovascularization in PCV are needed.
3D FLAIR Cochlear Abnormality Does Not Predict on Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Prognosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shin Geun Cheol , Cho Ara , Jeong Min Cheol , Sohn Beom Seok , Bae Seong Hoon
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives Previous studies reported abnormalities in MRI as a poor prognostic indicator of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). Since abnormalities in three-dimensional (3D) fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) are strongly correlated with the initial hearing function, the prognostic value of the 3D FLAIR images should be carefully evaluated to avoid collinearity. We aimed to evaluate abnormalities on the 3D FLAIR images as an independent prognostic factor in the matched SSNHL groups.Subjects and Method We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 179 patients with SSNHL who underwent temporal MRI, including the 3D FLAIR sequence, between January 2015 and December 2019. Patients were divided based on the presence of cochlear abnormalities on the 3D FLAIR images. Hearing prognosis was evaluated with and without matching for initial hearing and treatment interval.Results The groups were similar in sex (p=0.091), age (p=0.925), treatment interval (p= 0.216), and MRI interval (p=0.828). Notably, patients with cochlear abnormalities on the 3D FLAIR images showed distinctly more severe hearing loss (p<0.001) at the initial pure tone average (PTA) assessment and poorer outcomes (p<0.001) compared to those without abnormality. After matching for initial hearing and treatment interval, the hearing outcome, measured by PTA, was similar between the groups (p=0.681).Conclusion Cochlear signal abnormality in 3D FLAIR MRI was associated with poor initial hearing. However, it did not affect hearing recovery outcomes when the groups were matched.
Good’s Syndrome Presenting With Chronic Rhinosinusitis (1 Case Report)
Authors: Ryu Gi Hwan , Moon Jee Won , Shin Jae Min , Park Il-Ho
Published: February 2022

The Good’s syndrome is a rare immunodeficiency disease characterized by thymoma and hypogammaglobulinemia. The most common cause of infection in patients with Good’s syndrome is the recurrent sinopulmonary infection. One may assume that there could be an unknown immunocompromising condition such as Good’s syndrome in cases of chronic rhinosinusitis refractory to treatment. We experienced a patient with Good’s syndrome, presenting with chronic rhinosinusitis refractory to treatment. We report this case with a brief review of the literature.
Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery for The Management of Pediatric Perilymphatic Fistula Caused by Trauma
Authors: Lee Sang-Hoon , Park Da Hee , Lee Il Woo , Lee Hyun Min
Published: February 2022

Perilymphatic fistula (PLF) is caused by leakage of perilymph through an abnormal communication between the inner and middle ear. Conservative treatment is considered in the initial stages; however, exploratory tympanotomy is performed if hearing does not improve or if dizziness persists. Transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (TEES) is considered an appropriate treatment option and is gaining popularity. We report a rare case of traumatic PLF in a 7-year-old male patient, in whom pneumolabyrinth without temporal bone fracture was diagnosed and treated by exploratory tympanotomy using TEES, and review the related research to discuss the usefulness of management using TEES for PLF.
The Effect of Story Reading on Incidental Lexical and Grammatical Collocation Learning by Iranian EFL Learners
Authors:   University of Sistan and Bluchestan , Islamic Republic of Iran, Naderi Mina , Barani Fatemeh ,   University of Sistan and Bluchestan , Islamic Republic of Iran
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of story reading on incidental lexical and grammatical collocation learning. Moreover, it was an attempt to scrutinize whether there was any significant difference between incidental lexical and grammatical collocation learning. To this end, 36 Iranian EFL learners attending Sadra English Institute in Yasuj participated in the study. They were selected based on the result of quick placement test (QPT) as 28 out of 36 elementary EFL learners. A total of 28 learners were assigned into one experimental group (n=15) and one control group (n=13). The result of the pre-test and post-test analysis using One-Way ANCOVA and MANCOVA revealed the fact that that there was statistically significant increase in collocation knowledge of the learners. In addition, participants performed significantly on grammatical post-test than lexical post-test after the treatment.
Applying the R2l Pedagogy To Improve Entrepreneurship Students’ Exposition Texts
Authors:   Widya Mandala Surabaya Catholic University Indonesia, Vencesla Juan Gabriel Morales
Published: February 2022

This article discusses a classroom action research (CAR) which applied Reading to Learn (R2L) to teach EFL reading and writing with Indonesian-speaking entrepreneurial management students at Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya. R2L is a genre based literacy pedagogy based on Systemic Functional Linguistics. This CAR was designed based on an R2L pilot study conducted a few months earlier, and it consisted of three cycles, each one of which involved Detailed Reading, Joint Rewriting, and Joint Construction. The objective was to help the participants independently write an exposition text. Through observation and reflection, the class meetings of the second and third cycles were fine-tuned. Observation involved journal entries written by the teacher-researcher and the students. The effects of R2L on the exposition writing skills of the students were measured by comparing a pre-test and a post-test written by the participants. The criteria used to compare both texts were based on Rose and Martin (2012), and Martin and White (2005). It was found that the participants improved in terms of (1) Purpose; (2) Staging and Phases; and (3) Attitude. Thus, this study serves as further evidence of the effectiveness of the R2L Pedagogy to teach English writing in EFL contexts like Indonesia.
Two Approaches for Promoting Student Centered Language Learning: Cooperative Learning and Positive Psychology
Authors:   James Cook University (Singapore) Singapore, Jacobs George , Meng Huat Chau ,   James Cook University (Singapore) Singapore
Published: February 2022

This article links two approaches to promoting less competitive, more positive, and more student centered learning environments for language learners: cooperative learning and positive psychology. The article begins by explaining each of these two approaches. First, the article provides background, including research support, for cooperative learning and explains eight cooperative learning principles: maximum peer interactions, equal opportunities to participate, individual accountability, positive interdependence, group autonomy, heterogeneous grouping, teaching collaborative skills, and cooperation as a value. Second, the article supplies similar background, including research support, for positive psychology, including seven principles: relationships with others, responsibility, gratitude, positivity, strengths, kindness, and meaning. The article’s next section explores links between cooperative learning and positive psychology in language education and explains that the use of positive psychology in education frequently uses the name positive education. Then, the article presents an extensive reading activity and explains how the design of the activity draws on the eight cooperative learning principles and the seven positive psychology principles. Finally, the article explains how both cooperative learning and positive psychology support student centered language learning, and presents a student centered intensive reading activity that draws on the same eight cooperative learning principles and seven positive psychology principles.
Pedagogical Competencies in The Prescribed and Enacted Curriculum for Graduate Students
Authors:   IVY Highschool Surabaya, Indonesia, Tondoprasetyo Fransisca Kristanti
Published: February 2022

This case study is aimed to find out far the curriculum in a teacher education institute has integrated these pedagogical competencies in both their prescribed and enacted curriculum using the Actor Network Theory (ANT). ANT is applied in this research to see the network formed in both the prescribed and enacted curriculum so as to find out how students master the pedagogical competencies in the coursenet of three investigated courses, namely Principles of English Language Teaching, Teaching Reading and Writing, and Teaching Listening and Speaking. Therefore, this research analyzes how the human and nonhuman entities influence each other in both prescribed and enacted curriculum in two perspectives: 1) to what extent are the pedagogical competencies intended for graduate students in TEFL program? 2) to what extent are the pedagogical competencies delivered to the graduate students in TEFL program? The result of the study shows that most pedagogical competencies are delivered in the three investigated courses. Lecturers and students are human entities in the network formed in the courses while the nonhuman entities involved within the network are noises, light, class settings, and class location. Lecturers then become key actors that impact upon the actants–students– to act upon the translation process to master the pedagogical competencies. As for the non-human entities, they influence the learning atmosphere in which graduate students in TEFL are situated as they learn to master the pedagogical competencies. The coursenet formed within the three investigated courses have shown that evaluation and improvement need to be done by the education institution to enhance the quality of teachers’ education curriculum
Aquaculture carrying capacity of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus and Nile crocodile Crocodylus niloticus in Lake Kariba, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Authors: te Velde K , Peeters E , Verdegem M , Beijer J
Published: February 2022

Increased aquaculture production can improve food and nutrition security and economic growth in developing countries, but comes with environmental risks. In recent years, aquaculture has increased tremendously in Lake Kariba, which is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. We calculated the carrying capacity of aquaculture production in Lake Kariba using the Beveridge P balance model with data for lake-wide total-P concentrations, river flows and data from aquaculture farms and feed producers in the Lake Kariba area. The maximum permissible P load for aquaculture farms in Lake Kariba is 1.2 × 106 kg P yr-1. Average loss of P to the environment in Lake Kariba through farming is 13.92 kg P t-1 for Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus and 92.5 kg P t-1 for Nile crocodile Crocodylus niloticus. Consequently, sustainable aquaculture carrying capacity in Lake Kariba is 86900 t yr-1 for O. niloticus and 13000 t yr-1 for C. niloticus. We expect aquaculture production in Lake Kariba to account for 71% of the total allowable aquaculture P load by 2028. The total-P concentration is expected to increase to 28.5 mg m-3 by 2028 due to growth in aquaculture, and its development should be carefully monitored. In future, we recommend that our predictions should be compared to observed changes in order to validate the model. We also illustrate that companies can greatly improve the carrying capacity of a system by improving the feed conversion ratio, the efficiency of nutrient uptake and the processing of mortalities.
Coronavirus Pandemic 2019: Histological Similarities to Precursors, Repercussions of Politicizing an Intricate Medical Event and the Anticipated Induced Damage to Societal Fabric
Authors: Baradaeus Cyril
Published: February 2022

This is a concise review to current scientific elaboration on organic structural similarities of the recent health Covid-19 menace to early viral plagues, SARS, EVD and AIDS, possible link to MIS-C together with conceivable embroidering, within experimental uncertainties, on the unpremeditated insults of psychological damage to the societal fabric.
Ecological Education as a Component of Moral Education
Authors: Baiyshova G. , Abdullaeva Zh.
Published: February 2022

Research relevance: ecological problem today is an important problem in the world. One of the ways to solve this global problem is environmental education and upbringing of schoolchildren. Research objectives: this article reveals the relevance, goals, objectives and principles of ecological culture in schoolchildren, indicates methods and techniques of means and ways in organizing classes to establish moral and ecological thinking in schoolchildren. Research materials and methods: analysis of psychological, pedagogical, philosophical literature, documents of governments and ministries, as well as the study of school documentation on the environmental education of students. Research results: ecological culture in modern conditions is one of the leading components of personality and can be considered as the main system-forming factor that contributes to the formation of true intelligence and civilization in a person. Conclusion: the theoretical basis of ecological culture is based on solving problems in their unity: training, education and development.
Interleukin-6 Test Strip Combined With a Spectrum-Based Optical Reader for Early Recognition of COVID-19 Patients With Risk of Respiratory Failure
Authors: Wang Yung-Chih , Lin Sheng-Wen , Wang I-Jen , Yang Chung-Yao , Hong Chitsung , Sun Jun-Ren , Feng Po-Hao , Lee Mei-Hui , Shen Ching-Fen , Lee Yi-Tzu , Cheng Chao-Min
Published: February 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a globally devastating impact. This highly contagious virus has significantly overburdened and undermined medical systems. While most infected patients experience only mild symptoms, those who are severely affect require urgent medical interventions and some develop acute respiratory failure and require mechanical ventilation. The broad and potentially deadly impact of infection underscores the critical need for early recognition, especially for those at risk for respiratory failure. Those who are severely impacted and at high risk for respiratory failure have been found to present high levels of serum cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6). Timely diagnosis and management of those at risk for respiratory failure is crucial. Measurement of IL-6 may provide a means for distinguishing such patients. Currently, most serum IL-6 detection relies on the use of laboratory-based conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Although some rapid assays have been developed recently, they need to be conducted by specific technicians in central laboratory settings with advanced and expensive equipment. In this study, we propose an IL-6 test strip combined with a spectrum-based optical reader for early recognition of COVID-19-infected patients at imminent risk of acute respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilator support. For our analyses, clinical demographic data and sera samples were obtained from three medical centers, and test strip specificity and detection performance were analyzed. This would help healthcare personnel stratify the risk of respiratory failure and provide prompt, and suitable management.
A One-Step Electropolymerized Biomimetic Polypyrrole Membrane-Based Electrochemical Sensor for Selective Detection of Valproate
Authors: Yuan Yuyang , Li Tianyu , Ye Zhichao , Feng Yuyao , Chen Zhe , Wang Yusen , Sun Yiqiao , Wu Haoyu , Yang Zhaodong , Wang Yifan , Zhang Yiran , Huang Liquan , Liang Bo
Published: February 2022

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental disease with a heavy social and economic burden that causes extreme mood swings in patients. Valproate is a first-line drug for bipolar disorder patients to stabilize their daily mood. However, an excessive amount of valproate in the blood could induce severe adverse effects, which necessitates the monitoring of blood valproate levels for patients. Here, we developed an innovative electrochemical sensor for selective and simple detection of valproate based on a molecularly imprinted polymer membrane via one-step electropolymerization. Gold nanoparticles were electrochemically modified to the screen-printed electrode under the selective membrane to enhance its conductivity and stability. The successfully fabricated biosensor was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and differential pulse voltammetry methods. The binding of the target molecules to the valproate-customized biomimetic polypyrrole membrane blocks cavities in the membrane and alters its electric properties, which can be detected as a decrease in the peak current by differential pulse voltammetry method. The peak current change presents a great log-linear response to the valproate concentration around the therapeutic window. The limit of detection of this method was 17.48 μM (LOD, S/N = 3) and the sensitivity was 31.86 μM μA−1. Furthermore, the biosensors exhibited both satisfying specificity with the interference of other psychological pharmaceutical drugs and uniformity among sensors, indicating their potential and reliability in translational application. This simple and reliable method of sensing valproate molecules primarily provides an exceptional solution to valproate point-of-care testing in clinical practice.
Integratively Genomic Analysis Reveals the Prognostic and Immunological Characteristics of Pyroptosis and Ferroptosis in Pancreatic Cancer for Precision Immunotherapy
Authors: Yu Ting , Tan Huaicheng , Liu Chunhua , Nie Wen , Wang Yang , Zhou Kexun , Shi Huashan
Published: February 2022

The non-apoptotic cell death processes including pyroptosis and ferroptosis have been implicated in the progression and therapeutic responses of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD). However, the extent to which pyroptosis and ferroptosis influence tumor biology remains ambiguous, especially in PAAD, which is characterized with “cold” immunity. Considering the heterogeneity among different patients, it was more practical to quantify distinct cell death profiles in an individual tumor sample. Herein, we developed a pyroptosis-ferroptosis (P-F) score for PAAD patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. A high P-F score was associated with active immune phenotype, decreased genomic alterations, and significantly longer survival. Good accuracy of the P-F score in predicting overall survival (OS) was further confirmed in the TCGA-PAAD, ICGC-PACA-CA, and E-MTAB-6134 cohorts. Besides, one immunotherapy cohort (IMvigor210 dataset) has verified that patients with high P-F scores exhibited significant advantages in therapeutic responses and clinical benefits. The sensitivity to chemotherapeutics was analyzed through the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC), and patients with low P-F score might be more sensitive to paclitaxel and 5-fluorouracil. Collectively, the P-F score based on the systematic evaluation of cell death profiles could serve as an effective biomarker in predicting the outcomes and responses of PAAD patients to treatments with chemotherapeutic agents or immunotherapies.
Mechanochemical Preparation, Characterization and Biological Activity of Stable CuS Nanosuspension Capped by Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Stahorský Martin , Lukáčová Bujňáková Zdenka , Dutková Erika , Kello Martin , Mahlovanyi Bohdan , Shpotyuk Yaroslav , Daneu Nina , Trajić Jelena , Baláž Matej
Published: February 2022

The biocompatible nanosuspension of CuS nanoparticles (NPs) using bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a capping agent was prepared using a two-stage mechanochemical approach. CuS NPs were firstly synthetized by a high-energy planetary ball milling in 15 min by milling elemental precursors. The stability of nanoparticles in the simulated body fluids was studied, revealing zero copper concentration in the leachates, except simulated lung fluid (SLF, 0.015%) and simulated gastric fluid (SGF, 0.078%). Albumin sorption on CuS NPs was studied in static and dynamic modes showing a higher kinetic rate for the dynamic mode. The equilibrium state of adsorption was reached after 90 min with an adsorption capacity of 86 mg/g compared to the static mode when the capacity 59 mg/g was reached after 2 h. Then, a wet stirred media milling in a solution of BSA was introduced to yield the CuS-BSA nanosuspension, being stable for more than 10 months, as confirmed by photon cross-correlation spectroscopy. The fluorescent properties of the nanosuspension were confirmed by photoluminescence spectroscopy, which also showed that tryptophan present in the BSA could be closer to the binding site of CuS than the tyrosine residue. The biological activity was determined by in vitro tests on selected cancer and non-tumor cell lines. The results have shown that the CuS-BSA nanosuspension inhibits the metabolic activity of the cells as well as decreases their viability upon photothermal ablation.
Multiscale Invasion Assay for Probing Macrophage Response to Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Wodzanowski Kimberly A. , Caplan Jeffrey L. , Kloxin April M. , Grimes Catherine L.
Published: February 2022

The immune system is a complex network of various cellular components that must differentiate between pathogenic bacteria and the commensal bacteria of the human microbiome, where misrecognition is linked to inflammatory disorders. Fragments of bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan bind to pattern recognition receptors within macrophages, leading to immune activation. To study this complex process, a methodology to remodel and label the bacterial cell wall of two different species of bacteria was established using copper (I) catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) and strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition (SPAAC). Additionally, an approach for three-dimensional (3D) culture of human macrophages and their invasion with relevant bacteria in a well-defined hydrogel-based synthetic matrix inspired by the microenvironment of the gut was established. Workflows were developed for human monocyte encapsulation and differentiation into macrophages in 3D culture with high viability. Bacteria invaded into macrophages permittedin situpeptidoglycan labeling. Macrophages exhibited biologically-relevant cytokine release in response to bacteria. This molecularly engineered, multi-dimensional bacteria-macrophage co-culture system will prove useful in future studies to observe immunostimulatory, bacterial fragment production and localization in the cell at the carbohydrate level for insights into how the immune system properly senses bacteria.
Self-Triggered Control of Multi-Agent Systems With External Disturbances
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhu Jing
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates the consensus of multi-agent systems (MASs) by virtue of event-triggered mechanism. Considering the existence of external disturbances, we use a disturbance observer to estimate the disturbance signals and eliminate the corresponding effects by using estimators to compensate the input control terms. The self-triggered condition is designed and proved that there is no Zeno behavior. We show that the proposed disturbance observer can estimate the external disturbance signals well under the self-triggered condition. Finally, simulation examples are presented to verify the theoretical results.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Levels in Patients With Acute Aortic Dissection
Authors: Yang Shuofei , Xiao Yongsheng , Du Yuanfeng , Chen Jiaquan , Ni Qihong , Guo Xiangjiang , Xue Guanhua , Xie Xupin
Published: February 2022

Background

Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is a fatal disease demanding prompt diagnosis and proper treatment. There is a lack of serum markers that can effectively assist diagnosis and predict prognosis of AAD patients.

Methods

Ninety-six AAD patients were enrolled in this study, and 249 patients with chest pain due to acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, intramural hematoma, angina or other causes and 80 healthy controls were included as control group and healthy control group. Demographics, biochemical and hematological data and risk factors were recorded as baseline characteristics. The 1-year follow-up data were collected and analyzed. The diagnostic performance and ability to predict disease severity and prognosis of NET components in serum and aortic tissue were evaluated.

Results

Circulating NET markers, citH3 (citrullination of histone 3), cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and nucleosomes, had good diagnostic value for AAD, with superior diagnostic performance to D-dimer in discriminating patients with chest pain due to other reasons in the emergency department. Circulating NET marker levels (i.e., citH3, cfDNA and nucleosomes) of AAD patients were significantly higher than that of control group and healthy control group. In addition, circulating NET markers levels were closely associated with the disease severity, in-hospital death and 1-year survival of AAD patients. Systolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg and serum citH3 levels were identified as independent risk factors for 1-year survival of AAD patients. Excessive NET components (i.e., neutrophil elastase and citH3) in the aortic tissue of AAD patient were significantly higher than that of healthy donor aortic tissue. The expression levels of granules and nuclear NET components were significantly higher in aortic tissue from AAD patients than controls.

Conclusions

Circulating NET markers, citH3, cfDNA and nucleosomes, have significant diagnostic value and predictive value of disease severity and prognosis of AAD patients. The NETs components may constitute a useful diagnostic and prognostic marker in AAD patients.
Evaluation of the Oxiris Membrane in Cardiogenic Shock Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support: Study Protocol for a Single Center, Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Andrei Stefan , Nguyen Maxime , Berthoud Vivien , Morgant Marie-Catherine , Bouhemad Belaid , Guinot Pierre-Grégoire ,   The ECMORIX Study Group
Published: February 2022

Background: Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is the rescue treatment proposed to patients with refractory cardiogenic shock. The VA-ECMO implantation promotes inflammation and ischemia-reperfusion injuries through the VA-ECMO flow, causing digestive mucosa barrier disrupture and inducing translocation of bacterial wall components—Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) with further inflammation and circulatory impairment. LPS is a well-studied surrogate indicator of bacterial translocation. Oxiris membrane is a promising and well-tolerated device that can specifically remove LPS. The main study aim is to compare the LPS elimination capacity of Oxiris membrane vs. a non-absorbant classical renal replacement (RRT) membrane in patients with cardiogenic shock requiring VA-ECMO.

Methods: ECMORIX is a randomized, prospective, single-center, single-blind, parallel-group, controlled study. It compares the treatment with Oxiris membrane vs. the standard continuous renal replacement therapy care in patients with cardiogenic shock support by peripheral VA-ECMO. Forty patients will be enrolled in both treatment groups. The primary endpoint is the value of LPS serum levels after 24 h of treatment. LPS serum levels will be monitored during the first 72 h of treatment, as clinical and cardiac ultrasound parameters, biological markers of inflammation and 30-day mortality.

Discussion: Oxiris membrane appears to be beneficial in controlling the VA-ECMO-induced ischemia-reperfusion inflammation by LPS removal. ECMORIX results will be of major importance in the management of severe cases requiring VA-ECMO and will bring pathophysiological insights about the LPS role in this context.

Clinical Trial Registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04886180.
Drainage From Superior Vena Cava Improves Upper Body Oxygenation in Patients on Femoral Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Cai Tong , Li Chenglong , Xu Bo , Wang Liangshan , Du Zhongtao , Hao Xing , Guo Dong , Xing Zhichen , Jiang Chunjing , Xin Meng , Wang Pengcheng , Fan Qiushi , Wang Hong , Hou Xiaotong
Published: February 2022

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of drainage from the superior vena cava (SVC) to improve upper body oxygenation in patients with cardiogenic shock undergoing femoral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO).

Methods

Seventeen adult patients receiving peripheral femoral VA ECMO for circulatory support were enrolled. The femoral drainage cannula was shifted three times (from the inferior vena cava (IVC) level to the SVC level and then the IVC level again), all under ultrasound guidance, at an interval of 15 minutes. The blood gas levels of the right radial artery (RA) and SVC and cerebral oxygen saturation (ScO2) were measured and compared.

Results

Fifteen patients (88.2%) were successfully weaned from ECMO, and 12 patients (70.6%) survived to discharge. The oxygen saturation (SO2) and oxygen partial pressure (PO2) of the RA (97.0 ± 3.5% to 98.3 ± 1.5%, P < 0.05, SO2; 127.4 ± 58.2 mmHg to 153.1 ± 67.8 mmHg, P < 0.05, PO2) and SVC (69.5 ± 9.0% to 75.7 ± 8.5%, P < 0.05, SO2; 38.5 ± 5.6 mmHg to 43.6 ± 6.4 mmHg, P < 0.05, PO2) were increased; ScO2 was also increased on both sides (left: 50.6 ± 8.6% to 55.0 ± 9.0%, P < 0.05; right: 48.7 ± 9.2% to 52.3 ± 9.8%, P < 0.05) when the femoral drainage cannula was shifted from the IVC level to the SVC level. When the femoral drainage cannula was shifted from SVC level to the IVC level again, the SO2 and PO2 of RA (98.3 ± 1.5% to 96.9 ± 3.2%, P <0.05, SO2; 153.1 ± 67.8 mmHg to 125.8 ± 63.3 mmHg, P <0.05, PO2) and SVC (75.7 ± 38.5% to 70.4 ± 7.6%, P <0.05, SO2; 43.6 ± 6.4 mmHg to 38.9 ± 4.5 mmHg, P <0.05, PO2) were decreased; ScO2 was also reduced on both sides (left: 55.0 ± 9.0% to 50.7 ± 8.2%, P < 0.05; right: 52.3 ± 9.8% to 48.7 ± 9.3%, P <0.05).

Conclusion

Drainage from the SVC by shifting the cannula upward could improve upper body oxygenation in patients with cardiogenic shock undergoing femoral VA ECMO. This cannulation strategy provides an alternative solution for differential hypoxia.
Abutting Left Atrial Appendage and Left Superior Pulmonary Vein Predicts Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation After Point-by-Point Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Authors: Szegedi Nándor , Simon Judit , Szilveszter Bálint , Salló Zoltán , Herczeg Szilvia , Száraz Lili , Kolossváry Márton , Orbán Gábor , Széplaki Gábor , Nagy Klaudia Vivien , Mahdiui Mohammed El , Smit Jeff M. , Delgado Victoria , Bax Jeroen J. , Maurovich-Horvat Pál , Merkely Béla , Gellér László
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The role of the spatial relationship between the left superior pulmonary vein (LSPV) and left atrial appendage (LAA) is unknown. We sought to evaluate whether an abutting LAA and LSPV play a role in AF recurrence after catheter ablation for paroxysmal AF.

Methods

Consecutive patients, who underwent initial point-by-point radiofrequency catheter ablation for paroxysmal AF at the Heart and Vascular Center of Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary, between January of 2014 and December of 2017, were enrolled in the study. All patients underwent pre-procedural cardiac CT to assess left atrial (LA) and pulmonary vein (PV) anatomy. Abutting LAA-LSPV was defined as cases when the minimum distance between the LSPV and LAA was less than 2 mm.

Results

We included 428 patients (60.7 ± 10.8 years, 35.5% female) in the analysis. AF recurrence rate was 33.4%, with a median recurrence-free time of 21.2 (8.8–43.0) months. In the univariable analysis, female sex (HR = 1.45; 95%CI = 1.04–2.01; p = 0.028), LAA flow velocity (HR = 1.01; 95%CI = 1.00–1.02; p = 0.022), LAA orifice area (HR = 1.00; 95%CI = 1.00–1.00; p = 0.028) and abutting LAA-LSPV (HR = 1.53; 95%CI = 1.09–2.14; p = 0.013) were associated with AF recurrence. In the multivariable analysis, abutting LAA-LSPV (adjusted HR = 1.55; 95%CI = 1.04–2.31; p = 0.030) was the only independent predictor of AF recurrence.

Conclusion

Abutting LAA-LSPV predisposes patients to have a higher chance for arrhythmia recurrence after catheter ablation for paroxysmal AF.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Defibrillator Use in Sports
Authors: Carrington Mafalda , Providência Rui , Chahal C. Anwar A. , D'Ascenzi Flavio , Cipriani Alberto , Ricci Fabrizio , Khanji Mohammed Y.
Published: February 2022

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in young athletes is rare, with an estimated incidence ranging from 0.1 to 2 per 100,000 per athlete year. The creation of SCA registries can help provide accurate data regarding incidence, treatment, and outcomes and help implement primary or secondary prevention strategies that could change the course of these events. Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation are the most important determinants of survival and neurological prognosis in individuals who suffer from SCA. Compared with the general population, individuals with clinically silent cardiac disease who practice regular physical exercise are at increased risk of SCA events. While the implementation of national preparticipation screening has been largely debated, with no current consensus, the number of athletes who will be diagnosed with cardiac disease and have an indication for implantable defibrillator cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is unknown. Many victims of SCA do not have a previous cardiac diagnosis. Therefore, the appropriate use and availability of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces is the crucial part of the integrated response to prevent these fatalities both for participating athletes and for spectators. Governments and sports institutions should invest and educate members of the public, security, and healthcare professionals in immediate initiation of CPR and early AED use. Smartphone apps could play an integral part to allow bystanders to alert the emergency services and CPR trained responders and locate and utilize the nearest AED to positively influence the outcomes by strengthening the chain of survival. This review aims to summarize the available evidence on sudden cardiac death prevention among young athletes and to provide some guidance on strategies that can be implemented by governments and on the novel tools that can help save these lives.
BRCA1/2 Mutations and Cardiovascular Function in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Demissei Biniyam G. , Lv WenJian , Wilcox Nicholas S. , Sheline Karyn , Smith Amanda M. , Sturgeon Kathleen M. , McDermott-Roe Chris , Musunuru Kiran , Lefebvre Bénédicte , Domchek Susan M. , Shah Payal , Ky Bonnie
Published: February 2022

Objective

Animal models suggest that BRCA1/2 mutations increase doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity risk but data in humans are limited. We aimed to determine whether germline BRCA1/2 mutations are associated with cardiac dysfunction in breast cancer survivors.

Methods

In a single-center cross-sectional study, stage I-III breast cancer survivors were enrolled according to three groups: (1) BRCA1/2 mutation carriers treated with doxorubicin; (2) BRCA1/2 mutation non-carriers treated with doxorubicin; and (3) BRCA1/2 mutation carriers treated with non-doxorubicin cancer therapy. In age-adjusted analysis, core-lab quantitated measures of echocardiography-derived cardiac function and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) were compared across the groups. A complementary in vitro study was performed to assess the impact of BRCA1 loss of function on human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) survival following doxorubicin exposure.

Results

Sixty-seven women with mean (standard deviation) age of 50 (11) years were included. Age-adjusted left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was lower in participants receiving doxorubicin regardless of BRCA1/2 mutation status (p = 0.03). In doxorubicin-treated BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and non-carriers, LVEF was lower by 5.4% (95% CI; −9.3, −1.5) and 4.8% (95% CI; −9.1, −0.5), respectively compared to carriers without doxorubicin exposure. No significant differences in VO2max were observed across the three groups (poverall = 0.07). Doxorubicin caused a dose-dependent reduction in viability of iPSC-CMs in vitro without differences between BRCA1 mutant and wild type controls (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

BRCA1/2 mutation status was not associated with differences in measures of cardiovascular function or fitness. Our findings do not support a role for increased cardiotoxicity risk with BRCA1/2 mutations in women with breast cancer.